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Volume 1 

Wilford Woodruff s Journal: 1833-1840 



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1833-1898 

Typescript 

Volume 1 

29 December 1833 to 31 December 1840 

Edited by 

Scott G. Kenney 


Midvale, Utah 


Preface 

The 1833-1898 journals of Wilford Woodruff, fourth president of the Church of Jesus Christ of 
Latter-day Saints, rank among the most significant documents of Mormonism and the American 
West. As Brigham Young University Archivist David J. Whittaker has noted, their seven 
thousand manuscript pages "are for Monnon history what the Thomas Jefferson papers are for 
American history: bedrock — primary source material for the men and ideas that shaped their 
respective institutions. From New York to Ohio, Missouri, Illinois, and Utah, this remarkable 
man of faith recorded virtually the entire spectrum of nineteenth-century Mormonism. It is a 
record that every serious student of Mormonism must eventually research and study." This 
typescript is the first published version of the complete journals. 


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Converted to Mormonism less than four years after its inception, Wilford Woodruff always 
seemed to be on the cutting edge of the movement: Zion’s Camp, Kirtland, the mission of the 
Twelve to England, Nauvoo, the pioneer trek to Utah, settlement of the Great Basin, early 
Mormon agricultural and manufacturing associations, the Reformation and Utah War, the 
completion of the transcontinental railroad, early Mormon agricultural and manufacturing 
associations, the polygamists' underground, the drive for Utah's statehood, and the passing of 
Mormonism's first generation. 

Called to the apostleship by Joseph Smith in 1838 and to the historian's office by Brigham Young 
in 1856, Woodruff recorded daily routines; events in his family of seven wives and thirty-three 
children; dreams and revelations; sennons and table talk; and minutes of the School of the 
Prophets, Quorum of the Twelve, and First Presidency. 

"I seldom ever heard Brother Joseph or the Twelve preach or teach any principle but what I felt 
as uneasy as a fish out of water untill I had written it," he recalled. "Then I felt right. I could write 
a sennon of Josephs a week after it was delivered almost word for word & after it was written it 
was taken from me or from my mind. This was a gift from God unto me. ... I have never spent 
any of my time more profitably for the benefit of mankind than in my Journal writing for ... 
some of the most glorious Gospel Sermons truths & revelations that were given from God to this 
people through the mouth of the Prophets Joseph, Brigham, Heber & the Twelve Could not be 
found upon the Earth on record ownly in my Journals." 

To Woodruff journals were scripture in process. He urged the Saints to keep accurate and 
detailed Journals, comparing them to the records kept by the ancient prophets from which the 
Bible and Book of Mormon were compiled. He thought of his own fifteen volumes as "my 
Journals of the History of the Church," documenting the establishment, development, and 
transformation of virtually every social and theological institution of Mormonism — from 
trinitarianism to eternal progression and eventual godhood for men and women; from 
Consecration and Stewardship to the United Order to commercial capitalism; from a church of 
the gathered elect to the Church and Kingdom of God on earth to the beginnings of a worldwide 
religious movement. 

As assistant Church historian, Woodruff drew extensively on his journals to help prepare the 
History of Joseph, later published as the six -volume History of the Church, the standard history 
of the Joseph Smith period. Woodruffs biographer, Matthias F. Cowley, observed that "the 
frankness of his expressions, his care for details, and his conscientious regard for the truth made 
him, perhaps, the best chronicler of events in all the history of the Church." 

Woodruff is most remembered for his 1890 Manifesto which officially ended the Monnon 
practice of plural marriage. Though polygamy continued surreptitiously until 1904, the Manifesto 
resulted in the end of federal prosecution, the return of escheated Church property, and eventual 
statehood for Utah. It also initiated a rapprochement with American culture and a transvaluation 
of Mormon ideals. Woodruffs description of events leading up to and following from the 


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Manifesto is indispensable for an appreciation of modern Monnonism. 

Wilford Woodruff stipulated that his journals should remain in the custody of the family and 
designated sons Wilford, Asahel Hart, David Patten, Newton, and Abraham Owen "to be a 
committee to direct what shall go into my biography or history, should they determine to publish 
it, and to superintend and control such publication." 

In November 1981 the Wilford Woodruff Family Association assigned literary rights to 

In addition to this typescript, an annotated version edited by Dean C. Jessee and 
a one-volume history extracted from the journals by David J. Whittaker are being prepared for 
publication. 

Appreciation is expressed to the directors and members of the Wilford Woodruff Family 
Association for initiating a typescript and for conveying literary rights. To George D. Smith, Jr., 
for his commitment to the publication of these journals. To LaJean Purcell for her transcriptions 
of the shorthand and Deseret Alphabet entries. To Mary Ann Flandro, Scott and Barbara 
Faulring, Karen Loch, and Chris Tumblin for their help in preparing the type-script. 



Wilford Woodruff 


Editorial Procedures 

The intent of the editor has been to reproduce the text and style of the manuscript as faithfully as 
possible in a readable fonnat. The procedures outlined below generally follow those of The 
Diaries of George Washington, The Papers of Thomas Jefferson , and The Papers of Benjamin 
Franklin . Deviation from the procedures employed in those works has generally been to adhere 
more literally to the original text. 


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Brief editorial explanations are underlined (italicized in electronic version) and enclosed in 
brackets: [ Interlinearly after "Brother Joseph invited Longer comments appear in notes at the 
bottom of the page. 

Entry form is standardized with a blank line between entries. Paragraphing is generally the 
editor's. Woodruffs thorn, which appears as a double quotation mark after dates, is expanded to 
"st," "th," etc. Repeated dates, as at the top of a page in a continuing entry, are omitted. 

Cancelled material is retained, scored-out, if it is of historical or literary interest. Otherwise it is 
omitted. 

Underscored text is italicized, but stray marks, checks, x 's parentheses, and underlining added in 
pencil to the original text are omitted. 

Grammar and syntax are retained as in the original. Inadvertently omitted words are supplied by 
the editor in brackets. Inadvertent repetitions of words are omitted. 

Blank spaces and unfinished entries are designated by "[ ]." 

Spelling is preserved as in the original. But inadvertently doubled or omitted letters, and 
non-phonetic transpositions are silently corrected: "tthe" is rendered "the," "churh" is "church," 
and "Chirsf ' is "Christ." Two or more letters supplied by the editor are enclosed in brackets: 
"wid[ow], M "notwithstand[ing]. M Inverted letters are retained: "sudscriber," "disurdance," 
"puorum," "paptized." When exact spelling cannot be deciphered, modern usage is followed. 

Conjectural readings are enclosed in brackets with a question mark: "friend[s?]. M Words or parts 
of words for which two or more interpretations are equally plausible are rendered "coun[ty/try?], M 
"[man/men?]." 

Illegible letters and digits are indicated by suspension points, their number corresponding to the 
estimated number of such letters or digits: "2[.] miles." 

Illegible words are indicated by dashes, their number corresponding to the estimated number of 
illegible words: "Walked to [-] house." 

Shorthand text is enclosed in angle brackets: "<Distance of the day> 15 miles." In the early 
journals Woodruff used Samuel Taylor’s system, in which the presence of any strong vowel is 
indicated by a dot. In the mid- 1850s Woodruff began to use Isaac Pitman's more sophisticated 
method. Woodruff used only the most basic elements and was often careless in his use of vowels 
and in the shadings that differentiate voiced and unvoiced consonants. Because several symbols, 
in both systems, represent more than one consonant, names are particularly difficult to decipher 
and context is particularly important. One symbol, for example, may mean "in," "on," "know," or 
"no." 

Punctuation is generally preserved as in the original. However, periods and question marks have 


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been supplied at the end of every sentence. When the ending of a sentence is uncertain, no 
punctuation has been added. Commas and decimals have been added to numbers and amounts as 
needed. Colons have been added to phrases introducing lists and extended quotations. All other 
colons, and all commas, semicolons, parentheses, quotation marks, exclamation points, and 
apostrophes are Woodruffs. Subscripted apostrophes are raised: "Br Cathcart,s" is rendered "Br 
Cathcart's." Points are transcribed as commas except at the ends of sentences and after 
abbreviations, where they are periods. 

Intrusive punctuation is silently omitted: "From the age of 14. to 23" is rendered "From the age 
of 14 to 23," and "the age of .23." is "the age of 23." 

Abbreviations and shortened spellings are preserved. When the exact spelling cannot be 
deciphered the word is spelled out: "Recis rendered "received." Final e ’s and s 's, frequently 
omitted in the original, are understood to be phonetic or shortened spellings and are retained: 
"ther," "wer," "hous." Superscripted abbreviations are brought down to line. Woodruffs thorn at 
the end of an abbreviation is transcribed as a period: "Co"" is rendered "Co." Underlined 
abbreviations are also rendered with a period: "jr is "jr." Ampersands (&) are retained except 
when beginning a paragraph, where they are spelled out. Ditto marks and "do" are retained 
wherever possible; otherwise the words they represent are silently provided. 

Capitalization is preserved as in the original except all persons’ names are capitalized and all 
sentences begin with a capital. It is often difficult, if not impossible to detennine whether the 
intention was to capitalize a particular word or not, and absolute consistency is not to be 
expected. 

Lines and borders delimiting entries or significant parts of entries are represented by = = = =. 
Chart lines and lines used to connect parts of an entry are omitted. Entries enclosed in a 
decorative border begin with {= = = and end with = = =}. Initials or phrases enclosed in a box, 
heart, coffin, or other figure are transcribed in braces: "{PWW}." 

Symbols used to indicate drawings appear below followed by one, two, or three examples from 
the text: 

* all unique or infrequently used drawings 


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1804 

1830 

1833 

1834 

1835-1836 

1837 

1837-1838 

1839 

1839-1841 

1842 

1844 

1844-1846 

1846 

1847 

1848-1850 

1851 

1852 

1853 

1855 

1856 



A Wilford Woodruff Chronology 

Born, Farmington, Connecticut 

Book of Mormon published and "Church of Christ" organized 

Baptized, Richland, New York 

Zion's Camp march to Clay County, Missouri 

Mission to Tennessee and Kentucky 

Married Phebe W. Carter, Kirtland, Ohio 

Mission to Maine 

Ordained an apostle, Far West, Missouri 

Mission of the Twelve to England 

Business manager of Times and Seasons, Nauvoo, Illinois 

Mission to the Eastern States Martyrdom of Joseph and Hyrum Smith 

President of European Mission 

Married Mary Ann Jackson (divorced 1848) and Mary Carolne Barton 
Winter Quarters 

Pioneer trek to Salt Lake Valley, Utah 

President of Eastern States Mission 

First of twenty-one terms in territorial legislature 

Married Mary Meek Giles and Clarissa Hardy (divorced 1853) 

Doctrine of plural marriage publicly announced 

Married Sarah E. Brown and Emma Smith 

Elected president of Horticultural Society 

Appointed assistant Church historian Mormon Reformation 


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1857 

1857 

1858 
1867 
1869 

1871 

1874 

1877 

1879 

1880 

1883 

1884 

1885 

1887 

1888 

1889 

1890 

1891 


1893 


1896 

1897 

1898 


1833 


Married Sarah Delight Stocking 
1858 Utah War 

1877 President of Deseret Agricultural and Manufacturing Society 
School of the Prophets reestablished 

Transcontinental railroad completed, Promontory Summit, Utah 
Monnon boycott of Gentile products 
Pioneered Rich County, Utah 
United Orders revived 

Appointed president of Saint George Temple Death of Brigham Young 
Federal anti-polygamy legislation upheld by U.S. Supreme Court 
President of the Quorum of the Twelve 
89 Church Historian 

Anti-polygamy prosecutions intensified 
1887 Underground, headquartered in Saint George, Utah 

Church disincorporated, property escheated, female suffrage abolished 

Death of John Taylor; Wilford Woodruff presiding apostle 

Dedicated Manti Temple 

Church Board of Education created 

Sustained as Church president 

Anti-Mormon Liberal party won Salt Lake City election 

W oodruff Manifesto 

Monnon People's Party dissolved 

Church-sponsored sugar industry created Female Relief Society became 

charter member of National Council of Women 

Master in Chancery hearings on Manifesto 

Dedicated Salt Lake Temple 

Amnesty granted Monnon polygamists 

Ended adoption sealings; genealogical 

society organized 

Economic crisis 

Utah statehood 

Escheated Church property returned 

Ordained son Abraham Owen Woodruff an apostle 

Issued statement supporting American effort in Spanish- American War 

Died, San Francisco, California 

Volume 1 Chronology 


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December 29 
December 3 1 

1834 

January 2 
April 1 1 
April 25 
May 1 
June 30 
November 5 
December 3 1 

1835 

13 January 

28 June 

1836 

May 31 
November 25 

1837 

April 4-6 
April 13 
April 15 
May 13 


Attended first Monnon meeting 

Baptized, Richland, New York, by Zerah Pulsipher 


Ordained a teacher 

Left Richland to join Zion’s Camp 

Arrived Kirtland, Ohio 

Departed for Missouri with Zion's Camp 

Zion's Camp disbanded, Clay County, Missouri 

Ordained a priest, Clay County, by Simeon Carter 

Consecrated property 


Began mission to Tennessee and Kentucky Companions included Warren 
Parrish and A. O. Smoot 

Ordained an Elder, Benton County, Tennessee, by Warren Parrish 


Ordained a seventy by David W. Patten and Warren Parrish 
Arrived Kirtland, Ohio 


Kirtland washings and anointings 

Married Phebe W. Carter, by Frederick G. Williams 

Patriarchal blessing, by Joseph Smith, Sr. 

Started on mission to Maine with Jonathan Hale and Milton Holmes 


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July 

August 19 
October 

1838 

May 
July 1 
August 7 
August 9 
October 9 
December 

1839 

April 26 
May 18 
July 22 
August 8 

1840 

January 1 1 
March 5 

April 14 
August 1 1 
September 9 
October 6 


Visited home in Connecticut 
Arrived Fox Islands, Maine 
Visited Scarboro, Maine 


Visited Scarboro, Boston, and New York 

Baptized father, mother, sister in Farmington, Connecticut 

Returned to Fox Islands 

Received call to apostleship and mission to England 
Began trek from Maine to Illinois 
Wintered in Rochester, Illinois 


Ordained an apostle by Brigham Young, Far West, Missouri 
Moved family to Montrose, Iowa 

Witnessed Joseph Smith healing sick in Commerce, Illinois 
Left on mission to England with John Taylor 


Arrived Liverpool, England 

Arrived Frooms Hill, Herefordshire, Baptized 158 in one month, including 
forty-eight United Brethren preachers 

Council of the Twelve meeting in Preston, England 

Arrived in London to proselyte 

Returned to Herefordshire 

British Mission conference Membership rose 1,1 13 to 3,621 in the preceding 


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twelve months 


October 17 Returned to London 

Willford Woodruffs 
Journal 

Containing an Account Of my life and travels from the time of my 
first connextion with the Church of the latter day Saints 



The First Book of Willford for 1835 

When in the course of human Events has there ever been a more important period than at the 
present day and age of the world? It is at once beneficial and instructive to the reflecting mind to 
review the past with candour and rightly consider the present and be in perfect readiness for that 
which is to come. Whare is the Son or daughter of Adam who hath a standing in this day and 
generation that is walking in the light and truth as it is in Jesus Christ that can survey this gentile 
nation with insensibility or realize their situation without feelings of the deepest emotion? Who 
of us that hath been upheld and supported from our infantile moment[s?] to manhood and carried 
through many dangers seen and unseen both temporal and spiritual and been receieved into the 
new and everlasting Covenant which God hath made in these last days With his children, that 
will hesitate to stand as a bold witness for the gospel of Jesus Christ and follow him through evil 
as well as good report and surrender himself a living sacrifice holy and acceptable unto God 
which is his reasonable service? 

Believeing it to be benificial to review our past life And not ownly our privilege but duty to keep 


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an accurate account of our procedings And it is to this intent that I shall endeavour henceforth to 
keep a journal of my travels that when required I may give an account of my stewardship. 



Click to view full size image. 


/March 1st 1801/ My parents both father and mother were born and bred in the town of 
Farmington Connecticut. My father Aphek Woodruff was the Son of Eldad Woodruff. My 
mother Bulah Thompson was the daughter of Lot Thompson all of the town of Farmington Ct. 

I was born in the north part of the town of Farmington which is now called Avon March 1th 
1807. From the age of 14 to 23 my mind was often exercised upon the subject of my souls 
salvation yet without submision to God or being led by his spirit untill the age of 23. Then at that 
age, I resolved by the grace of God assisting me to be led by the spirit and word of God into that 
truth which maketh free thereby. 

I had no desire to join any of the sectarian Churches for I found by compareing the Churches with 
the records of divine truth that they were neither contending nor receieving the faith once 
delivered to the Saints. I could not discover the Church or body of Christ visible among men. I 
believed the Church of Christ was in the wilderness and that there had been a falling away from 
the pure and undefiled religion before God. And I was a looking for the Church to arise and again 
to be esstablished upon the foundation of the ancient Apostles and Prophets Christ Jesus the 
Chief Comer Stone. 

After remaining in this state of mind for nearly the term of four years I herd a report circulated on 
the 29th day of Dec 1833 that there was to be a meeting held in the neighbourhood by a Mormon 
priest. This meeting was to be held in the town of Richland Oswego County New York. I had 
moved two years previous to this from Connecticut to this place, with my older Brother Azmon 
Woodruff. We had purchased a fann together and been living on it nearly two years. We both 


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were anxious to attend the meeting. 


Accordingly we went and found a full congregation of people. The person that was to preach was 
Zerah Pulsipher an elder in the Church of Christ or of the latter day saints. He commenced the 
meeting with some introductory remarks and then prayed. I felt the spirit of God to bear witness 
that he was the servant of God. He then commenced preaching and that to as with authority, and 
when he had finished his discourse I truly felt that it was the first gospel sermon that I had ever 
herd. I thought it was what I had long been looking for. I could not feel it my duty to leeve the 
house without bearing witness to the truth before the people. I opened my eyes to see my ears to 
hear my heart to understand & my doors to entertain him who had administered unto us. 

Brother Pulsipher Continued labouring with us for several days and on the 3 1th of Dec I with my 
Brother Azmon Woodruff with two yong females which had been healed by the laying on of 
hands went forward in baptism. The day following there was several others followed our 
example. Among the rest was Noah Hatton a preacher in the freewill Baptist Church and several 
of the members of his Church followed him in the ordinance of baptism. 

And on the 2th of Janry 1834 Brother Pulsipher esstablished a branch of the Church of Christ in 
Richland Oswego Co. N.Y. containing twelve members. He ordained Brother Azmon Woodruff 
& Brother Noah Hatton Elders and myself a teacher in the Church of Christ. 

1 truly felt that 1 could exclaim with the servant of God that it was better to be a door keeper in 
the house of God than to dwell in the tents of wickedness. 1 felt much of the spirit of God bearing 
witness To the Book of Mormon. 1 believed it was light out of darkness and truth out of the 
ground. 

The license which 1 receieved reads thus: 

A Power and authority given to Willford Woodruff proving that he is a Teacher in the Church of 
Christ by the will of God the Father according to his holy Calling and the gift /& power/ of the 
Holy ghost agreeable to the Revelations of Jesus Christ signifying that he has been baptized and 
receieved into the Church according to the articles and Covenants of the same and ordained 
under the hand of Zerah Pulsipher. 


Given at Richland Janry 2th AD 1834 
Zerah Pulsipher 

1 continued with my Brethren in Richland through the months of Janry Febuary and March 
labouring with the Church. We had considerable opposition yet inasmuch as we were humble the 
Lord ever delivered us. 

1 went with Brother Hatton to meet Brother Pulsipher and several other brethren and sisters at 
Brother Newcomes house in Fabius. We had an interesting meeting. The spirit of the Lord was 
with us. We returned home rejoiceing. We soon was visited by Brother Harry Brown elder and 
Brother James Blakesly priest. They held two meetings with us & we were much edefied & they 


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went on there way rejoiceing. 

We were visited no more by the Brethren untill about the first of Aprail at which time Brother 
Harry Brown returned accompanied by Brother Parley Pratt. We had a precious interview. 

Brother Parley preached with us untill about midnight. He was on an important mission. He with 
Brother Lyman Wight was under a command of the Lord to gather together some of the servants 
of the Lord to go up to Zion. It was the Lords will that they should gather together five hundred 
but not to return [with] Less than one hundred. It was the will of the Lord that the yong men & 
middle aged what could be spared should go up to Zion. 

I told Brother Parley our circumstances. He told me it was my duty to try to prepare myself and 
go up to Zion. And accordingly I used evry exertion to settle my accounts arange my affairs and 
prepare myself to join my Brethren to go to Missourie. And on the 10th of Aprail Brother Harrey 
Brown & Brother Warren Ingles called at our house to accompany me on my journey to the west. 
They remained with me and my Brother untill the day following. 

Then on the 1 1th day of Aprail, 1834, after prepareing my horses and waggon I took the parting 
hand with my Brother Azmon and his family And also with the Bretheren and Sisters in the 
Church and commenced our Journey for Kirtland which place was appointed to meet at by the 
first day of May 1834 that all those who were going up to Zion might go together according to 
the word of the Lord. 

We called on the Brethren at Lyons and spent the sabbath with them And the next Sabbath we 
spent with the brethren at Geneseeo. Then we continued our journey. We called on Brother 
MCWitha and spent the night with him. 

We also Called on Brother Lewis. We there found Brother John Murdock & Orson Pratt. We 
spent the sabbath with them and herd them both preach and on monday continued our journey for 
Kirtland accompanyied by Brother John & Orson. 

Brother Ingols and myself called on Brother Strong at Thompson and spent the night with him. I 
was much edified with his conversation. I had a view of the draft of the City of Zion which he 
held in his possession. 

We continued To travel towards Kirtland and arived there at night on the 25 of Aprail 1834. 
There for the first time I had a view of our beloved Brother Joseph Smith the prophet & Seer 
which God hath raised up in these last days through whom the Saints receieve Revelations from 
time to time. Brother Joseph invited us to take up our abode with him & accordingly we did and 
boarded at his house most of the time for a week. [ Interlinearly after "Brother Joseph invited”:] I 
here [for the] first time became acquainted with Elder Milton Holmes who traveld with us in the 
camp to Mo. 

Here I became not ownly acquainted with him and his family but with many of the brethren both 
high priests, Elders, and private members those which were making it their home at Kirtland and 


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also those which were gathering for the purpose of going up to Zion. 

/26 [April] I was introduced to Elder Brigham Young & Heber C Kimball. Br Young gave me a 
Butcher knife./ 

On the 27th of Aprail being the Lords day I attended meeting and herd several of the Brethren 
preach. Brother Sidney Rigdon, Orson Hide, Orson Pratt and others spoke /Joseph Smith 
Closing/ during the meeting. It appeared to me there was more light made manifest at that 
meeting respecting the gospel and Kingdom of God than I had ever receieved from the whole 
Sectarian world. 

According to appointment on the first day of May 1834 we left Kirtland for Missouri. There was 
not but a small part of the company left Kirtland untill the Monday following on account of their 
not being in readiness going five days later. There was four baggage waggons and rising of 20 
men in the company which left Kirtland the first of May. 

We traveled to New Portage and there remained with the Church untill the remainder of the 
company joined us from Kirtland which was on the 6th of May. Then we were organized in 
regular order and took up our march on the 8th day of May. 

Our march was similar to the ancient Israelites. Our horses, waggons and tents were in readiness 
and we were led by Joseph. Our Company now consisted of twenty baggage waggons and rising 
of one hundred & fifty men. The men were armed with dirks pistols Swords & rifles For Self 
defence and according to Brother Joseph’s request I delivered him my Sword for his own use. 

Our lives were threatened in consequence of advocating and maintaining the gospel of Jesus 
Christ. For this cause it became necessary to be in readiness to defend our lives our persons and 
property. 

As I before said we commenced our march or journey on the 8th day of May from New Portage 
the weather vary pleasant and delightful. We continued to travel through the day and dwell in our 
tents at night. I witnessed many interesting things while on this journey. We made it a practice of 
pitching our tents on Saturday night and not remove them untill Monday morning. We had 
preaching on the Lords day. Brother Joseph often addressed us in the name of the Lord while on 
our journey and often while addressing the camp he was clothed upon with much of the spirit of 
God. His precepts were very instructive and interesting. 

While on our travels we visited many of the mounds which were flung up by the ancient 
inhabitants of this continent probably by the Nephites & Lamanites. We visited one of those 
Mounds and several of the brethren dug into it and took from it the bones of a man. 

[Interlinearly after "We visited one of those Mounds":] considerd to be 300 feet above the level 
of the Illinois river. Three persons dug into the mound & found a body. Elder Milton Holmes 
took the arrow out of the back bones that killed Zelph & brought it with some of the bones in to 
the camp. I visited the same mound with Jesse J Smith. Who the other persons were that dug in 


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to the mound & found the body I am undecided. 

Brother Joseph had a vission respecting the person. He said he was a white Lamanite. The curs 
was taken from him or at least in part. He was killed in battle with an arrow. The arrow was 
found among his ribs. One of his thigh bones was broken. This was done by a stone flung from a 
sling in battle years before his death. His name was Zelph. Some of his bones were brought into 
the Camp and the thigh bone which was broken was put into my waggon and I carried it to 
Missouri. Zelph was a large thick set man and a man of God. He was a warrior under the great 
prophet /Onandagus/ that was known from the hill Camorah /or east sea/ to the Rocky mountains. 
The above knowledge Joseph receieved in a vision. 

It excited the curiosity of people more to see such a Company of people traveling through the 
country in perfect order. People came forth out of there houses to behold the Scene and 
thousands of questions were asked concerning our movements. 

We had several rivers to ferry and when we arived at Salt River we pitched our tents to remain 
stationary for several days. And on the day following our arival at Salt River we were joined by 
Brother Lyman Wight and the company of Brethren which he had gather’d together at Misigan or 
in that region of country. It was a joyful meeting. This added to our company So that it now 
consisted of 25 baggage waggons and about two hundred men. 

We remained at Salt River about one week. We were reorganized and Brother Lyman Wight was 
now appointed as a leader of the anny. 

And now again after all things were put in readiness we Again took up our march towards Zion. 
We continued to travel untill we had arived within a few miles of Liberty Clay County Missouri. 
Here we pitched our tents and remained quite a number of days on account of the great 
excitement which prevailed in consequence of false reports which were abroad in the land 
respecting us. The majority of the people or public opinion were against us and even their were 
about Seventy men mounted on horseback with firearms gathered together for the intention of 
comeing against our camp. But the God of Israel frustrated their design for while they were 
comeing against us the Lord rained upon them rain and great hail So that it was expedient for 
them to seek Shelter from the storm. And after the stonn they dispersed and would not go against 
the camp. 

After remaining stationary for several days the leading men of Clay County and some principle 
Men of other Counties called at our camp to enquire into our motives. And after a fair 
investigation of the Subject they manifested to us that they were satisfied that we had no evil 
designs or intentions in our movements or procedings. 

We remained in this situation visited daily by both friend[s?] and foes untill the High priests held 
a council and there was a Revelation given concerning us. By this time the excitement had in a 
great measure ceased and the Lord had granted us favour in the eyes of the people. 


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We now again prepared ourselves to move forward. We traveled till within about two miles of 
Liberty. Then we again pitched our tents near by the house of Brother Burgett's. Here we 
remained for several days. 

And while here I witnessed a solemn scene. Previous to this time while on our journey there were 
disobedience and murmurings in the camp And Brother Joseph prophesied That in consequence 
of these things there was a scourge awaited the camp. And as it was prophesied of So it was 
fulfilled. For soon after we had camp’d by Brother Burgetts we were visited by the destroying 
angel and 8 or 10 of our brethren were immediately lade helpless beneath the stroke. I assisted in 
taking care of them through the day and the night following and through the night and in the 
morning there continued to be new attacks. 

And in the morning Joseph remarked that it was the duty of the Camp to brake up and disperse 
and take up their abode around among the brethren lest the Scourge should be more severe. A 
reserve was made however for a sufficient number to tarry to take care of the sick. Accordingly 
the camp dispersed. 

And Brother Seth HitchCock was one of the number attacked with sickness. And he belonging to 
our tent it required another of our tent to take care of him. And it was inconvenient for me to stay 
to take care of him in consequence of having a teem to see to. And by request of Brother 
Hitchcock Brother Seth Ingals remained to take care of him. 

I left the camp ground and traveled about 7 miles to Brother Lawery's house and remained with 
him for several days /in company with Elder Holmes who spent the summer with me at Elder L 
Wights/. I soon began to hear of the deaths of my Brethren which I left sick. They all died which 
were first taken and numbers which were afterwards attacked. There were about 20 in the whole 
which died at or about that time. Brother Seth Hitchcock and Warren Ingals were among the 
number. Brother Ingals had been in company with me from the time I left my brother, Azmon at 
Richland N.Y. 

After remaining several days at brother Lawrey's Brother Lyman Wight gave me an invitation to 
spend the season with him. Accordingly I made it my home at his house and ingaged to labour 
with him through the season as he had taken a job to make one hundred thousand of brick and to 
build a dwelling house out of the same for Mr Michael Arthur, which made labour for many of 
the brethren. I commenced labouring at Brother Wight's about the first of July. 

I found many great and glorious privileges here as it was the place appointed for the meeting of 
the high Council & also the Elders council and Courts to transact all their business. This high 
council of high priests was esstablished according to the will of God by his Servent Joseph about 
the first /on the 3d/ of July 1834 /organized the High Council/ before his return to the east. 

And it is a great benefit to the inquireing mind to be privileged of attending those counsels as it is 
the privilege of the Council to recieve the word of the Lord concerning all subjects that are 


Page 16 




brought before them to be decided or investigated that immediately Concern the Church On 
points of the Gospel. And in fine those councils which God hath appointed in these last days are 
in the first degree the most instructive and interesting to the honest enquirer after truth light and 
intelligence that this generation of the human family hath access to. 

I continued to labour with a number of my Brothren at Brother Wights through the summer and 
fall. We had preaching occasionally through the summer from persons who were appointed by 
the council to teach. And seperate from these meetings the branch of the Church by Brother 
Lyman Wight's met together at his house on the Sabbath for the purpose of breaking bread and 
exhorting one another. 

It was a practice for any who was to be ordained to the ministry to have the vo[ice?] of the 
branch of the Church in which they were living before they were recommended to the high 
Council for ordination. It was at one of these meetings that Brother Lyman Wight called a vote 
to recommend Brother Stephen Winchester Heman T. Hide and myself to the high Council for 
ordination. It was a full vote and at the next meeting of the high Council we were recommended 
by Lyman Wight, Amasa Lyman Elias Higby, and Zebedee Coltan all high Priests to the council. 
And there was a vote taken and carried by the high Council to ordain us priests. And Brother 
Simeon Carter was appointed to ordain us and we were ordained on the 5th day of November 
1834. The license which I receieved from the appointment of the Council reads thus: 

To whome these presents may Come 

This certifies that Willford Woodruff has been receieved into this Church of latter day Saints 
organized on the 6th day of Aprail 1830, and has been ordained a priest according to the rules 
and regulations of Said Church and is duly authorized to preach the gospel and act in all the 
ordinances of the house of the Lord agreeable to the authority of that office. 

Given by the directions of a council of elders assembled in Clay County Missouri Nov 5th 1834. 

John Whitmer 


/I wrote 12 Letters while holding the Office of A Teacher./ 

/On the 3d day of July I attended the Meeting at Lyman Wights at which time Joseph Smith the 
Prophet Organized the High Council. Joseph was Clothed with the power of God. He Chastised 
David Whitmore & others for unfaithfulnes. Said their hearts were not set upon the building up 
the Kingdom of God as they should be. After He was chastised He was set apart under the hand 
of Joseph to Preside over the Land of Zion And Wm W. Phelps & John Whitmer assistant 
President?] or Councillor./ 

The principal towns vilages and distance from Richland, N Y. to Kirtland Ohio and to Liberty 
Clay Co Missouri which road I traveled in 1834 commensing the 1 1th day of Aprail: 

From Richland = to Oswego 20 miles 


Page 17 




= Oswego to Rochester 70 = Rochester Leroy 
25 = Leroy = Batavia 10 = Batavia to Buffalo 39 
from Buffalo to Cataragna 30 = Cataragna 
= Freedona 15 = Freedona to Westfield 
= 15 = Westfield = to State line 11= State line 
= Erie 19 = Erie = Elkcreek 15 = Elkcreek 
= Coneaut 14 = Coneaut = Ashtrabula 14 
= Ashtrabula = Unionville 15 = 

= Unionville = Pansville 1 5 
= Pansville = Kirtland = 9 Ohio 
From Kirtland = to Streatesborough 26 
= Streatesborough = Newportage 23 
= Newportage = Woster 30 
= Woster = Mansfield 33 
= Mansfield = Gallion 16 
= Gallion = Bucyrus 12 
= Bucyrus = Little Sandusky 15 
= Little sandusky = Belfontain 41 
= From Belfontain to Urbanna 18 
= Urbanna = Springfield 14 
= Springfield = Daytan 25 
= Daytan = Eaton 25 
= Eaton = Richmond 16 
= Richmond = Centerville 6 
= Centerville = Dublin 12 
= Dublin = Raysville 1 8 
= Raysville = Greensville 14 
= Greensville = Indianapolis 1 8 
= Indianapolis = Greencastle 40 
= Greencastle = Clinton 38 
= Clinton = Paris 17 
= Paris = Springfield 116 
= Springfield = Jacksonville 35 
= Jacksonville = Illinois River = 22 
= Illisnois River = Atlas 26 
= Atlas = Louisana 7 
= Louisana = Salt River 49 
= Salt River = Liberty 180 
= Total From Richland to Kirtland 336 = 

= From Kirtland to Liberty 902 
The sum total is 1,238 miles 


Page 1 8 




Believeing it to be the duty of the latter day Saints to consecrate and dedicate all their properties 
with themselves unto God in order to become lawful heirs to the Clestial Kingdom of God It was 
under such a view of the subject that I consecrated before the Bishop of the Church of the latter 
day Saints in Clay County Dec 3 1st 1834. The following is a coppy of the Consecration: 

Clay Co Missouri Dec 31st 1834 

Be it known that I Willford Woodruff do freely covenant with my God that I freely consecrate 
and dedicate myself together with all my properties and affects unto the Lord for the purpose of 
assisting in building up his kingdom even Zion on the earth that I may keep his law and lay all 
things before the bishop of his Church that I may be a lawful heir to the Kingdom of God even 
the Celestial Kingdom. 

The following is an inventory of my Property: 


One Due Bill payable in one year 

$ cts 
20.00 

One trunk and its contents principly Books 

18.00 

Hat Boots and clothing 

23.00 

One valiece 

2.50 

One english watch 

8.00 

One rifle and equipments 

9.00 

One sword 

5.00 

One pistol 

1.50 

Also Sundry articles 

3.00 

And Notes which are doubtful and uncertain 

150.00 

Total 

$240.00 


January 

I have now arranged my business and am prepared to go forth into the world to preach the gospel 
of Jesus Christ. And on this 13th day of January I receieved a recommend which reads as 
follows: 

Liberty Clay Co. Mo. January the 13 1835 

This Certifies that Willford Woodruff has faithfully Discharged evry duty required of him in the 
Camp of the Saints in Jouming from Kirtland to this place has been very faithful in the discharge 
of his duty Since his Arrival here Both Spiritual and Temporal is Strong in the faith of the latter 
Day Saints and worthy of his Calling. He is Recommended by the Church in this place to any 
Branch whare providence may Call him. 

Lyman Wight 


Page 19 




On the 13th of Jan 1835 I left Brother Lyman Wights in company with my Beloved Brother 
Henry Brown to go forth to preach the gospel of Jesus Christ without purse or scrip to the people 
in the South. May God grant us wisdom and make us meet for our Masters use and assist us to 
rightly divide the word of truth and render to evry man their portion of meet in Due season that 
our garments may be clear of the Blood of this generation. 

This is my first mishion or the first commencement of my travels to preach the gospel. 

Jan 13th I left Brother Lyman Wights 7 miles east of Lyberty and crossed Re[engs?] ferry into 
Jackson County being the first time my feet had ever stood upon that land. I their joined Brother 
Henry in offering up our petitions and thanksgivings to God while at the Same time that precious 
land was polluted by ungodly men. 

We travled 23 miles to Brother Bensons. Tarryed with him through the night. Got 5 signers to a 
petition to the Governor of Missouri for redress of wrongs done us by the Jackson County mob. 

14th Left Brother Bensons. Travled to Brother Charles MCCline being 5 miles. Got one signer to 
the petition. 

15th Left Brother MCClines and travled 12 miles through some of the most beautiful praires 
mine eyes ever beheld inhabited ownly by wild beasts such as Deer and wolfs. Called and spent 
the night with Brother [Jabhau?] Hitchcock. Got one signer to the petition. We at this time were 
again in Jackson County. 

Jan 16th Left Brother Hitchcock and travled 12 miles south of grand river and was kindly 
receieved by Mr James Porter being 23 miles. Preached the gospel to him and his. 

17th Left Mr Porter and travled within twelve miles of Harnay Misshion and was kindly 
Receieved by Mr Walker being 26 miles. Saw Deer and wolfs. Visited ma[ny?]. 

18th Left Mr Walkers and travled to the Harmany Mishion. From thence to Mr Jerand the Indian 
trader being 15 miles [in] a strait course. But we lost our way and wandered in the woods untill 
in the night but we found our way to the trading house by the hooting of some of the Osage tribe 
who were at the hous. We were kindly receieved and well treated by Mr Jerand and entertaned by 
him through the night. 

Jan 19th Left Mr Jerand and crossed the Osage River and travled through a long level fertile 
praire a Southeast course. We traveled this day 60 long miles. It being so dark we could not 
follow the road and we concluded to camp in the woods for the night as we could hear no sound 
but the howling of wolfs. And as we were about to build a fire we herd the barking of a dog and 
the tinkiling of a bell. We went towards the sound and came to the house of Mr Williams. 
Notwithstanding Mr Williams was from Jackson Co yet he receieved us for the night. [This?] 
was in Polk County. 


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20th Left Mr Williams and travled to Mr Conner. Took breakfast with him. /Had traveld 172 
m[ile?] in [-] [county east?] bank of Sac River./ From thence across S[ac?]k River and on to Mr 
William Crisp being 18 miles in Polk County. Preached to him and his household to his 
satisfaction. 

21st Left Mr Crisp. Travled again across Sack river to Col Robert Pollan 15 miles in Green Co. 
Mr Pollan Receieved us kindly. We preached to him. 

Jan 22 Left Col. Pollan. Travled across Spring River to Mr Joseph Fishers being 20 miles in 
Green County. 

23rd Left Mr Fishers and travled to Mr Nathan Turner's in Green Co. Gave out appointment for 
preaching on the day following at Mr Turners house. 

24th Preached at Mr Turners house and travled to Mr Charles J Teas 1 mile in Green Co. 

25 /Sunday/ On the Lords day Left Mr Teas and travled to Mr Joseph Henderson and preached at 
his house Being 3 miles in Green Co. Mr Henderson & family were much believing in the 
Gospel. Mr Henderson & Son Signed the petition & bid us God Speed. 

26 Left Mr Henderson and travled across Stoal Creek to Mr Wm. C Payne in Barry Co. being 14 
miles. 

27 Left Mr Payne & travled to Samuel Vaughn ESq being 20 miles near by the State line. 

Jan 28th Left ESq Vaughn and travled out of the State of Mo into the Arkansas Territory to Mr 
Andrew Nail. Was kindly Receieved by him. This was in Washington Co. at the head of the 
Illonios River being 24 miles. 

29th Remained with Nail through the day in consequence of a hard Storm. 

30th Left Mr Nail and travled to Fayettville. From thence to Mr Ingham in Washington Co. 20 
miles. 

3 1th Left Mr Ingham and travled to Mr John Billingsly in Washington Co. 8 miles. Was kindly 
Receieved by him. 


February 

Feb 1st On the Lords day preached at the house of John Billingsly to an Attentive congregation. 
Got 3 Signers to the petition. Much of the Spirit rested upon us while preaching. 

2nd Left Mr Billingsly and travled to Mr Sanford Elmore in Crawford Co. being 25 miles. We 
passed through Some Cane breaks on this Day. 

Feb 3th Left Mr Ellmores and Crossed [Troy by one?] Creek. Travled on to Mr Andrew Boyd in 


Page21 




Crawford Co. within 10 miles of the Court house. 20 m. 


4th Left Mr Boyd and travled to Mr John Simms in Crawford Co. 20 miles. Crossed little and 
Big Mulbury Creeks and also White Oak Creek. 

5th Left Mr Simms. Crossed White Oak Creek and travled to Mr Nickelson Crawford Co. 20 
miles. 

6th Left Mr Nickelson. Crossed the Arkansaw River at Hicksons ferry. Also crossed St[art?] 
Mountain Creek. From thence to Mr S U Walkers in Crawford Co. being 30 miles. 

7th Left Mr Walkers. Crossed the Revell Creek. From thence to Mr Wm. Riley in Scott Co. 
Distance 26 miles. 

8th Left Mr Rileys. Travled to Brother Willis Akeman. Distance 5 miles in Pope Co. 

9th Remained at Brother Akemans. 

10th Travled 6 miles with Mr Akeman to assist him in temporal business. 

Feb 1 1th Left Mr Akemans. Travled 2 miles to Mr Johnathan Hubbel. 

12 Spent the day at Mr Hubbel in Writing. 

13 Remained at the Hubbels. Wrote one letter to the Brethren in Zion. 

14 On the evening of this day I was suddenly Called to a house of mourning which was Mr 
Alexander Akeman’s. He had walked out of his house and droped dead upon the ground. In a few 
moments all his Sons and daughters were present. It was truly a time of Mourning. Mr Akeman 
had belonged to the Church of Christ. His wife died Strong in the faith in Jackson Co. Mr 
Akeman was through the persecution in Jackson County in Consequence of which he moved to 
Pope Co Arkansaw Territory where he met his death /In a sudden manner immediately after 
denying the faith of the Latter day Saints/. 

15 Returned to Mr Hubbels on the Lords day. Spent the day at his house according to 
appointment. 

16 Attended the funeral. Assisted in burying the body of Mr Akeman. Preached the word unto the 
people. Got 10 Signers to the Petition. 

Feb 17th Travled from Mr Akemans to Mr Eligah Bakers. Preached at his house according to 
appointment. From thence to Mr Josighah Hart who invited us to spend the night with him. Mr 
Hart was 74 years of age and a pataritt in the Revolution. He signed the petition. Distance 15 m. 

18 Left Mr Hart and travled to Mr William Wit. Distance 12 mile. Got 5 Signers to the petition. 

19 Left Mr Wit. Travled to Mr Hubbel Preached at his house according to appointment. Got 6 


Page22 




Signers to the petition. From thence to Mr Benjamin Snellin. Distance 4 miles. 

20 Left Mr Snellin. Travled to Brother Wright Akemans. Spent the day in labouring with our 
hands. From thence to Mr Hubbel. Distance 3 miles. Spent the Evening in preaching the word to 
Mr Hubbels household. Brother Henry Spoke in tongues and interpeted the same. The Spirit of 
God rested upon us. 

Feb 21 Left Mr Hubbel. Travled 2 miles to Brother Wright Akemans. Spent the day in labouring 
with our hands. Then went to Mr Snellin who was dangerously Sick. Spent the night in assisting 
him. 

22 On the Lords day left Mr Snellin. Travled 2 miles to Mr Hubbel. Preached at his house. Much 
of the Spirit of God rested upon us. Brother Henry Batitized 2 persons /Brother & Sister 
Hubbel’s/. 

23 Counceled together and Concluded to go down the Arkansaw River to its mouth and cross the 
Mississippi River into Tennessee. We left Brother Hubbel accompanied by Brother Wright 
Akeman for the purpose of making a Canoe to go down the River in. Crossed the Arkansaw 
river. Spent the night at Mr John Morse. Distance 23 miles. 

24 Spent the day in digging out a Canoe. 

25 Finished our Canoe and launched it. 

26 Left Mr Morse. Crossed the River. Travled to Brother Hubbel. Distance 23 miles. 

Feb 27th Spent the Day in labouring for Brother Hubbel with our hands. 

28 Preached at Brother Hubbel house. 


March 

March 1th On the Lords day and also on my birth day preached to a full Congregation at Brother 
Hubbels house according to appointment. Got 1 Signer. 

2 Took the parting hard with Brother & Sister Hubbel and all our friends at Petty John. Was 
accompanied by Brother Wright to the Dardanell. We Crossed the River. Was kindly Received 
by Mr John Morse and there found Mr Wm & Willis Akeman. Distance 23 miles. Got 7 Signers 
to the petition. 

3 [Har?]dened the idea of going down the river in a Canoe and excepted of the offer of Mr 
Frederick Sangrain to labour for him a few days and go down the River with him in a cover’d 
boat. Spent the day in labouring for him. 


4 Spent the day in labouring for Mr Sangrain. 
5th Spent the day in labouring for Sangrain. 


Page23 




March 6th Spent the day in labouring & writing a letter to my parents. I had a view in this place 
of some dangerous reptiles which was two Sandapeads and three Terrantiallers. Their touch upon 
human flesh is considered immediate death. The Arkansaw abounds with them esspecially 
among the rocks. 

7 Spent the day in labouring for Mr Alfred A Sangrain. 

8 On the Lords day preached at Mr John Morse house. Brother Henry and myself visited the top 
of the high bluff at the Dardanell and engraved our names in the rock. This place is the Station 
which the Osage Indians took to view their enemies in war. 

9th & 10th Laboured for Mr Sangrain. 

1 1th In consequence of low watter the coverd boat could not go down the river. Therfore we 
concluded to procede on our Journey in our canoe. We left Mr Sangrain. Embarked in our canoe. 
Travled 25 miles to Petty John Mountain. Stayed with Abram Bamet Pope Co. 

March 12th Left Mr Bamet. Proceded Down the River to the Cadron. Spent the night in an old 
deserted tradeing house. / 1 signed petition./ Distance 50 miles. Conway Co. 

13th Left the Cadron after visiting the black Bluffs. Travel’d 40 miles. Spent the night with 
Samuel Blackburn Palaski Co. 

14th Left Blackburn. Travled to Little Rock. After visiting Little rock 3/4 of an hour travled 
down the River. Was kindly receieved by Mr Isaac Jones in Palaski County. 53 miles. 

15th Spent the Day with Mr Jones. Preached to them. 

16th Left our Canoe with Mr Jones. Travled up the River by land 10 miles. Took the Military 
road leading from Memphis to Little Rock. Was receieved [by?] Col Blues in Palaski Co. 2 
signers to the petition. Distance 22 miles. 

17th Left Col Blue. Travled to Mr [.] Cribbins in Monroe Co. 40 miles. Most of the way mud & 
water. 

18th Left Mr Cribbins. Crossed White River at Cash ferry. From thence to Mr James P. Kelleam 
Monroe Co. Distance 18 miles. 

19th Spent the Day in labouring for Mr Kelleam. Also the 20 and 21th. 

March 22 On the Lords Day preached to an attentive congregation at the house of Mr Kelleam. 

23th Left Mr Kelleam & travled 40 miles most of the way through mud & water. Stoped for the 
night with William S Chan at second Creek in St Francis County. 2 signers to petition. <[--]> 5 
<miles [ ]> 50 <-->. 


Page24 




24th Left S Chan. Travled to John Casheer. Distance 14 miles. The time had now arived when 
my Colleague Deemed it expedient to take a speedy journey to his family at Kirtland and on the 
24th of March I took the parting hand with Brother Henry Brown which left me alone. I preached 
in the Evening to Mr Casheer house to a large Congregation. Got 2 signers to the petition. 

25th Travled from Mr Casheer to William A Johnsons in Critentan Co. Distance 20 miles. 
Crossed St. Francis River. Got 3 signers to petition. 

26 Left Mr Johnsons. Crossed Black Fish Lake. Travled 14 miles through mud & water. 

Preached at the house of Willis Fields in Crittenton Co. Got 1 1 signers to the petition. 

27th Left Mr Fields. Travled to & crossed the Mississippi River into Memphis State of 
Tennessee. 14 miles. Preached at the house of Josighah Jacksons to a company of wicked men. 
/They got [enough?] of me. They took me for an impostor & wanted to see if I could preach./ 

March 28th Travled from Mr Jacksons to Raleigh. From thence to Mr John A Fogwood Fayette 
Co. Distance 32 miles. 2 signers to petition. 

29th Attended meeting on Sunday. 2 miles. 

30th Travled from Mr Fogwood to Sommer[ville?] & on to Bolivar. Spent the night at the house 
of Esq. Hardamand Amid Musick & Dancing in Hardamand Co. Distance 35 miles. 

3 1th Travled from Mr Hardamand to [Joel?] Sipes. Preached at his house in Madison Co. 1 
signed the petition. Distance 24 miles. 


April 

Aprail 1th Left Mr Sipes. Crossed M[ount?] Pinson. From thence to Mr Daniel Beard in 
Henderson Co. Distance 30 miles. 

2th Feft Mr Beard. Travled through plesant grove & Lexington and Maple Springs to Mr Wm 
Morris Carrel County. Distance 30 Miles. 

3th Left Mr Morris. Travled 14 miles to Brother C[ade?] Crawley. Got 2 signers to petition. 
Humphrey Co. 

4th Left Brother Crawley. Travled 5 miles to Brother Joseph Frey. There I had the happy 
privilege of meeting with Brother Warren Parish who was faithfully ingaged in the work of the 
Lord & baptizing such as should be saved. I am now expecting to labour with him for a season. 

Aprail 5th On the Lords Day remaned at Br Frey. 

6th Preached at the Meeting house on Eagle Creek also in the Evening of the same Day. 

7th Spent the Day in visiting the Saints at Eagle Creek and travled to Brother Crawley. 8 miles. 


Page25 




8th Travled from Brother Crawley to John Jacksons. Preached in the evening at his house. 

9th Left Mr Jackson. Travled to paris to Brother Isaiah Benton. Distance 24 miles. Henry County. 
10th A meeting for prayer at Brother [Sants?] in the Evening. 

1 1th Travled from paris to Mr John Hartfield. 10. 

12th Travled from Mr Hartfield to Naples. On Sunday preached at the meeting house. Distance 
10 miles. Was kindly Receieved for the night by Dr Richard B Claused. 

13th Travled from Dr Claused into the State of KY. Graves County. Preached in the evening at 
the house of Mr David Kelly. Distance 9 miles. 

14th Left Mr Kelly. Travled to Mr Clap's. Preached to an attentive congregation also in the 
evening. Distance 6 miles. 

15th Preached at [Wise Brusles?]. From thence to Dr Claused Henry Co. Distance 9 miles. 

Aprail 16th Left Mr Claused. Travled to Mr Etherage. Preached to an attentive congregation. 

Was blessed with the Spirit of God. From thence to Mr Butterworth. Preached in the evening. 10. 

17th Left Mr Butterworth. Travled to Brother L[ev?]y Taylor in Henry County. Distance 14 
miles. 

18th Preached at the School house at Mr Chumley. Spent the night at Mr Joseph Chumley. 

19th Sunday Preached at the School house. Brother Parish Baptized five persons three of Mr Cy. 

20th Left Brother Taylor's. Travled to Brother Samuel Smith. Preached at Mr Willey Mallory 
Callaway Co State of Kentucky. 

21th Left Brother Smith & preached at the house of Col Solomon Copeland Henry Co [..]. Mrs 
Copeland was heald by the laying on of hands. /1 8 miles./ 

22th Travled from Col Copelands to paris. 10 miles. 

23th Spent the Day in paris. Held a Debate with two Methodest priest & a prayer Meeting in the 
evening. 

24th Left the Brethren at paris. Travled to Elijjah?] Foster. Held two meetings at his house. 15 
miles. 

25th From Mr Fosters to John Jacksons. HS. Co. 15. 

26th Sunday From Mr Jacksons to Wm Camp at Chalk Level. Preach at his house. Br Parish 
Baptized one. Hs County. 15 miles. 


Page26 




Aprail 27th Baptized one. Left Chalk Level for Brother Frey's Eagle Creek Hs. Co. Distance 10 
miles. 

28th Preached at E[.] Creek. Visited the sick and prayd with them. Travled 4 miles. 

29th Spent the Day at Brother Frey in writing. Wrote one letter to the Saints in Zion Also to the 
Saints in the Arkansas. 

30th Write a letter to My parents in Connectict. Preached in the Evening at Caswell Medlock. 2 
M. 

May 

May 1th Returned to Brother Frey. Continued writing. 2 M. 

2th At night Preached at Sister Medlocks. Br Parish Baptized 2. 

3th On the Lords Day Preached at Father Frys. 

4th Wrote A letter to Friend Ozem Woodruff Avon, Con. Spent the night at Brother Medlock. 
5th Returned to Br Frys. Travled 4 miles. 

6 Rode 3 miles & preached at Mr Wm Malin's. 

7th Rode to Morgans Creek. Preached at John Walkers. Returned to Br Frys. 15 miles. 

8th Spent the Day at Br Frys in Study and Writing. 

9th Travled 2 miles. Visited the brethren and returned. 

10th Sunday Rode to Mag Maddens. Preached to a large congregation. From thence to Br 
Crawleys. Distance 30 miles. Br Parrish Preached at E Creek. Baptized 1 one.Note(l) 

May 1 1th Rode from Brother Crawley's to Br Utleys. 8 miles. 

12th Rode to Lewis Barkers. Preached at his hous. Br Parrish Baptized 2 persons. Distance 6 
miles. 

13th Rode to Mr JOHN JACKSON. Preached at his house. Baptized 2 one of them at the 1 1th 
hour of the Night. Distance 7 mi. 

14th Rode to PARIS Henry County. Distance 23 miles. We there found A Brother By the name 
of ASA DODDS. He was nearly blind both litterally & spiritually. 

15th Spent the day in PARIS. Preached in the evening at the Court house. 

16 Br Parrish mail’d A letter for Kirtland. Rode to Col S C. 10 miles. 


Page27 




17th Sunday Preached at the Academy to A large congregation Also in the evening at Col 
Copelands. 

18th Rode to Br West's Humphreys Co. Distance 30 miles. 

19th Rode to Willis Beards ESQ to Brother Frey's & /18 m. 12./ J. Jacksons. Preached at his 
house. Distance 20 miles. 

21 Rode to Col Copeland’s Henry Co. Distance 25 miles. 

22nd Rode to Br Taylor's on Bloody. Distance 10 miles. 

23rd Rode to Mr Butterworth's. Preached at his house. 10 mile. 

24th Sunday Preached at Butterworth's Also in the evening Baptized 2 persons & rode to Jms 
Ray's. 

25th Rode to Brother Taylor's. Distance 10 miles. 

26th Rode to Br Smith's then to Col Rowlets. 7 miles. 

27th Rode to Col Copeland’s Henry Co. Distance 14 mi. 

28th Rode to Br Lanes in Paris. Distance 10 miles. 

29th Rode to Mr Fosters. Preached at his house. From thence to J Jacksons. Distance 30 miles. 

30th Rode from Mr. Jacksons to Jesse Roggers. In this days travel we past through 
Reynoldsburgh after crossing Tennessee River Preached at Roggers. 15m. 

3 1st Sunday Preached at Mr Roggers to A large congregation on the authenticity of the Book of 
Mormon. 


June 

June 1th Rode across Tennessee River to Br West's. 12 m. 

2nd Rode to Br Utley's. Preached at his house. Baptized 1 person. Then to Br Caps. Distance 
[217] miles. 

June 3th Rode to MAG Madden’s. Preached at his house. Visited & prayed with the sick. Then 
Rode to MAG Beards. 25 miles. 

4th Preached at Mag Burrel Beards. Then Rode to br Fry's. [1718 miles. 

5th Spent the day visiting the saints on Egle Creek. 

6th Preached at the Meeting house on Egle Creek. 


Page28 




7th Sunday Preached at the Meeting house on E Creek Also at Brother Frys in the evening 
Baptized 2 persons. 

8th Rode to Brother Crawley's. Distance 6 miles. 

9th Rode to Mr Barkers. Preached at his house. From thence to ESQ Petty's. Distance 8 miles. 
10th Rode to John Jacksons. 3 miles. 

1 1th Preached at J Jacksons. Br PARRISH baptized 1 which was Albert Petty ESQ. Then to J 
Lowery's. 14 mil. 

12th Rode to Br Lanes in Paris. Preached in the Court house. 15 miles. 

13th Rode to Col Copeland's. Distance 10 miles. 

14th Sunday Preached at the Academy. 

15th Br Parrish baptized 1. Then Rode to Br Taylors. 10 mil. 

16th Preached at Br Taylor's & Rode to Mr John Freeman's. 5 miles. 

17th Rode to Concord. Call’d on Doct R B Clausell. Then to Mr Joseph Chumley. Distance 7 
miles. 

18th Rode to Mr Isaac Hendricks. Preached at his house. Distance 10. Confirmed Br William 
MCCullock. 

19th Rode to Col Dodds Graves County. Distance 10 miles. 

20th Rode to Mr Claps. Preached at his house. Distance [ ]. Graves County KY. 

21st Sunday Preached in the grove to A large company. Br Parrish baptized 3 persons. Then rode 
to Mr MCCamall. Preached at his house. Distance 10 miles. 

22nd Rode to Bloody. From thence to Col Copeland’s. 25 m. 

23 Rode to PARIS. Preached in the Court house. Distance 10. 

On the 23rd day of June 1835 we receieved A letter from Brother Oliver Cowdery containing A 
request for Br Parrish to return to Kirtland as he was one of the seventy chosen Also stating that 
it was wisdom for me to tarry & labour with the church in great humility that I need not fear as 
their were other seventy to be called and that I was remembered. 

June 24th Held A debate with A Lawyier Wm L Sloss. Then rode to Mr Foster's. Preached at his 
house. 14 miles. 

25th Rode to J Jacksons Humphrys Co. Distance 16 mile. 


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26 Brother Parish baptized 1 Br John Jackson. Then Rode to Mr L Barker's. Preached at his 
house. Was followed by A speach from Mr Cave Johnson Also from Mr Cong[o?] Pervatt. Then 
Rode to Br Pettys. Br Parrish baptised 1 Mrs Catherine Petty. Distance 6 miles. 

27th Rode to MAG Beards. Preached at his house. [Then?] to Br Fry's Egle Creek. Distance 26 
miles. 


28th Of June 1835 On the LORDS DAY Brother WARREN PARRISH Preached his farewell 
sermon to the Egle Creek branch of the Church of Latter Day Saints. Elder Calvin H Nicholson 
was present. As Br Parrish was one of the seventy Chosen it became necessary for him to return 
to Kirtland. It also became necessary for him to set the Churches in order before his departure & 
Ordain such as Should be chosen by the gifts & callings of God to watch over the Church. And 
on the 28 of June 1835 brother Warren Parrish Ordained me an Elder & brother Caswell 
Medlock was ordained A Deacon over the Egle Creek branch. I wrote & presented A 
reccommend to the Church ie Reccommending br Parrish to the bishop and Church in general. It 
was signed by the male members. We truly had an affecting time. Partook of the Sacrament. 
Closed the meeting by singing A farewell song. Then rode to brother Medlock's With Elders 
Parish & Nicholson. 


As I am now called to the office of an Elder I think it Proper before further giving an account of 
my travels to ocipy A space in aranging my travel's while I was A Teacher A Priest &c Whare 
and how far I traveled and who with And how many baptized &c &c. 

On the 3 1 which was the last day of Dec & of the year 1833 I Joined the Church of Latter Day 
Saints. Was Baptized by Elder Zerah Pulsifer on the 3 1 of Dec 1833 in company with my Brother 
Azmon Woodruff. We were the two first that was baptized by A latter day Saint in Oswego Co 
NY. I was ordained A Teacher by Elder Pulsifer January 2nd 1834. 

Travled while A Teacher from the 1 1th of Aprail to 25th of June 1834 1,238 Miles 


From Richland Oswego Co. NY to Kirtland Ohio 


336 miles 


From Kirtland Ohio to Liberty Missouri 


902 miles 

Total 1,238 mile 

Traveled With brothers Seth Ingols & Henry Brown From Richland to Kirtland. 

Travled with 150 or 200 Brethren with brother Joseph Smith, Jun as our leader from Kirtland to 
Missouri. 

Remained A Teacher Untill the 5th of Nov. 


Page30 




Wrote 12 Letter while A Teacher. 


I was Ordained A Priest by brother Simeon Carter by the direction of the high Council of Elders 
on the 5th of NOV 1834. 

I commenced travling to Preach the gospel on the 13 of Jan 1835 in company with Elder Henry 
Brown with A reccommend from Elder Lyman Wight. 

I Consecrated & Dedicated Myself, Properties, and Effects unto the Lord befor the Bishop in 
Zion on the 3 1st Dec 1834 A coppy of which is in the fore part of this Journal. This that I may be 
A lawful heir to the Celestial Kingdom of GOD. 

The following is an account of my travels and proceedings While Officiateing in the Office of A 
Priest: 

From the 13th of Jan to the 28th of June of 1835 I travled 1,808 One thousand eight hundred & 
eight miles to preach the gospel of Jesus Christ, Divided thus: 

212 miles in Missouri With Elder H Brown 

656 miles in Arkansas Territory 

608 With Elder H Brown and 48 Alone 

940 miles in Tennessee and KY 

760 miles With Elder W Parish & 180 Alone 

1,808 miles the Whole 

I held 70 Seventy Meetings Divided thus: 

10 With Elder Brown 
4 Alone 

56 With Elder Parrish 
70 The Whole 

I assisted Elder Brown while Baptizing 2 persons in ARK. 

Assisted Elder Parrish While baptizing 18 in Tenn. 

I Baptized 8 persons in Tenn and KY While with E PA[RISH?] And holding the office of A 
priest. 

I procured 73 Signers to the Petition to the Governour of the State of Missouri for wrongs 
inflicted upon the Church of Latter Day Saints by the Jackson County Mob divided thus: 

10 In Missouri 

56 In Arkansas Territory 

7 In Tennessee 


Page3 1 




I procured 4 Subscribers for the Messenger & Advocate And Wrote 10 Letters. 

The Above ends my proceedings While holding the Office of A Priest from the 5th of NOV 1834 
to the 28th of June 1835 Making 7 Months and 23 Days. While I was not travling I was labouring 
with my hands. 

The following is A License Receieved from Elder Warren Parrish: 

This certifies that Willford Woodruff has been receieved into this Church of the Latter Day 
Saints organized on the 6th Day of Aprail 1830 and has been ordained an Elder according to the 
rules and regulations of said Church and is duly authorized to preach the gospel and act in all the 
ordinances of the house of the LORD agreeable to the authority of that office. 

Given under my hand by the voice of the Eagle Creek branch of the Church of the latter day 
Saints on the 28th Day of June 1835. 

ELDER WARREN PARRISH 
TENN. HUMPHREYS COUNTY 


I shall now continue my Journal as usual. 


June 29th Rode from Br Medlock's to Br Frys in company with Elders Parrish & Nicholson. 
Spent several hours in writing. Then Rode to Squire Ivins. Br Parrish baptized 1 person. From 
thence to Br Walkers. 4 miles. 

30th Rode to John Walkers on Morgans Creek. Preached at his house. From thence to Br Fry's. 
Distance 14 miles. 


July 

July 1st Rode to Brother Utley's. Distance 8 miles. 

2nd Preached at Br Utley's & organized that branch of the Church called the Chalk Level branch. 
Br Parrish ordained Br Abel B Wilson A Deacon. 

3rd Rode to Br Crawleys. Distance 6. 

4th Crossed Tenn. River. Past through Reynoldsburgh to Col Rutherford’s Humphrys Co. 
Distance 12 miles. 

5th Preached at Col Rutherford’s. Baptized 1 person. 

6th Crossed the River. Rode to Br Utleys. Distance 12 miles. Br Parrish baptized 3 in Henry Co 


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on the same day. 

7th Rode to Br J Jackson’s. Preached at his hous. 4 miles. This was A day appointed by our 
enemies to meet at Br Jacksons for the purpos of mobing us. But while sickness fell upon some 
& fear upon others they Abandoned their designs. 

July 8th Spent the day with Br Jackson’s. 

9th Rode to Mr Fosters. Preached at his house. Then RODE to brother Lanes in PARIS. Distance 
30 miles. 

10th Rode to Col Copelands. Distance 10 miles. 

1 1th Spent the day at Col Copelands & the night at Davis. 

12th Sunday Preached at the Academy to A congregation of hundreds. Was accompanied by 
Wm. L Sloss to Col Copeland. Distance 3 miles. 

13th Rode to Samuel Roberts. Preached at his house. Then to Brother Taylor's on bloody. 
Distance 10 miles. 

14th Preached at Br Taylors. Then rode to Mr Chumleys. 

15th Rode to Doct Richard B Clausell at Concord. Preached in the grove. Then Rode to Br 
Taylors. Distance 10 m. 

16th Took the parting hand with br Parish <the last [-] brother Parish spent the [-]> And the 
friends on Bloody & Rode to Mr Butterworths. Preached at his hous and Rode to John 
MCCullock. 13 miles. 

17th Rode to MCCaman's. Preached at his house. 6 mile. 

18th Rode to M Lewis Claps KY. 15 miles. Receieved Elder ASA DOODS credentials 
According to the appointment of the Counsel at Kirtland. I ordained Br Benjamin Clap A 
Teacher in the Church of Latter Day Saints. 

19th Sunday Preached by the school house 1 mile from Mr Claps. I followed A campbellite 
preacher. Although m[ob?] threatened before meeting I was not disturbed. Also Preached in the 
evening at Mr Claps & baptized 2 per[sons?]. 

20th Rode to Clarks River & Preached at Mr Thomas'es & Also in the evening to A large 
Congregation of priest's & people. Was opposed by one priest. The rest were silent. Spent the 
night with Daniel Thomas. 12 mile. 

21st Rode to Concord. Then to Br Taylors. Distance 30 miles. 

22nd Rode to Col Copelands 10 miles whare I again met with Brother PARRISH. He informed 


Page33 




me that he had baptized 5 persons since we parted. I receieved A letter from my Pare[nts?]. 

23rd Rode in company for the last time with Elder Warren Parrish to the mouth of Sandy. Br 
Parrish Preached to several hundreds for the space of three hour's & baptized 1 person. The time 
had now arived however painful it might be for me [to] take the parting hand with Br PARRISH. 

I Know not that we shall ever meet again untill we meet in Eternity. May the blessings of God 
crown his days & prepare him for the Celestial Kingdom. O worthy Brother farewell but not 
forever. 

I am now left alone without human aid to asist me in preaching the gospel. My circuit is about 
100 miles in extent besides the care of all the Churches within the limits of the same. Who is 
weack & I not weack? Who is offended & I bum not? O may the LORD give me strength as my 
day & many souls as seals of my ministry. O GOD prepare me for the battle. 

I took the parting hand with Brothers Parrish & Utley who was intending to Journey together to 
Kirtland. Then returned to Col Copeland's. Distance of the day 20 miles. 

24th Rode to Brother Lanes in PARIS. Distance 10 miles. 

25th Spent the day in paris. 

26th Sunday Rode to Johnathan Lowerys. Preached at his house to A large congregation. Was 
opposed by some individuals. Then Rode to Br Jacksons. Distance 25 miles. 

27th Spent the day at Br Jackson's. 

28th Preached at Brother Jacksons. Baptized 1 one. Some anned men gather’d together. It was 
supposed to mob me but they came not against me. 

29th Rode to Br Pettys then to Br Williams. Distans 4 miles. 

30th Rode to L Barkers. Preached at his house then to Caps. 8 m. 

3 1st Rode to Br Utley's then to Br Crawleys. Distance 8 miles. 

August 

AUG 1st Rode to Br Frys on Egle Creek. Distance 8 miles. 

2nd Preached at Egle Creek Meeting house at 12 oclock Also at 4 oclock AM at Sister Barnets. 
Baptized 2 two. Spent the night at Sister Barnet's in company with Wm. L Sloss. 2 miles. 

3rd Rode to Brother Frys. Spent the day in writing & Studying Stenography <stenography> from 
Wm L Sloss. 2 miles. 

4th Took the parting hand with William L Sloss ESQ & the rest of the friends. Rode to Br Utleys. 
Preached [at] 12 oclock. 10 mil. 


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5th Spent the day at Br Utleys. 

6th Rode to Col Rutherfords east of Tenn River. Preached at 12. Returned through 
Reynoldsburgh on election day where there was much drunkenness and fiting. Rode to Br 
Jacksons & preached in the evening. Distance 23 miles. 

AUG 7th Rode to Mr Fosters. Preached at his house. Receieved 2 sudscribers for the M & Ad. 
Distance 15 mil. 

8th Rode to Paris & herd of much excitement. Fea[r?] an insurrection of the dlacks. Distance 14 
miles. 

9th Sunday Rode to Col Copeland. Preached at the Academy. Distance 10 miles. 

10th Rode to Bloody. Distance 10 miles. 

1 1th Preached at Br Taylor. Then rode to Br Smith. 5 m. 

12th Visited the sick. Rode to Br Taylors. 5 miles. 

13th Rode to Mr Butterworth's. Preached. Distance] 10 mi. 

14th Spent the day at Mr Butterworth's. 

15th Rode to Br Taylors. Was under the necessity of Swiming Bloody River. After some 
difficulty I extricated myself & Horse from the Water. Dis 10 miles. 

16th Sunday Held Communion with the Saints at Br Taylors & wrote A letter to Br Asahel H 
Woodruff. 

17th Spent the day at Br Taylors in study & writing. 

18th Rode to Mr Chumleys & wrote a letter to Br Henry Brown in Zion. 

19th Rode to Concord. Then returned to Br Taylors. 14 mi. <1 dream on the night of the> 19 
<of> aug 1835. <After meditating on the first dream I dreamed another. > 

20th Rode to Col Copelands. Distance 10 miles. 

21st & 22nd Spent at Col Copeland's. 

23rd On the Lords Day Preached at the Academy. 

24th Rode from Col Copelands to Paris. Distance 10 m. 

25th Rode to Mr Fosters. Distance 14 miles. 

26th Rode to Br Jackson’s. Preached at his house. 14 mi. 


Page35 




27th Rode to Br Albert Pettys. Distance 2 miles. 

28th Rode to Lewis Barker. Preached at his house. Then Rode to Egle Creek. 

29th Preached at Br Freys. Expeled Fanny Lewis. 

30th Spent the day in visiting the sick. Travled 6 mi. 

3 1th Rode to Br Crawley. Distance 6 miles. 

September 

1st Sept Rode to Br West's. Preached at his house. Then Rode to Br Pettys. Distance 8 miles. 

2nd Preached at Br Pettys. Then Rode to Br H Williams. 4 miles. 

3rd Rode to David Crenshaw. Preached at his house. 14 mile. 

4th Rode to Paris. Distance 14 miles. Receieved A letter from Br W Parrish Kirtland. 

5th Rode to Col Copelands. Distance 10 miles. 

6th On the Lords day Preached at the Academy by Col Copeland. Then Rode to Mr Lowthers. 14 
mile. 

7th Rode to Samuel Roberts. Preached at his house. Then Rode to Br Taylors. 12 miles. 

8th Preached at Br Taylors. Rode to Concord. 8 miles. 

9th Rode to Mr Chumbleys. 9 miles. 

10th Rode to Wid[ow] MCcamrans. Passed many [si? ]ck. [-] miles. 

1 1th Rode to Br Clapps Calloway Co KY. 10 miles. 

12th Benjamin Clapp & his Wife healed by the laying on of hands. Then Rode to Br Loys. 1 m. 
13th On the Lords day Preached at Mr Claps Also in the evening Baptized 1 Mary Clapp. 

14th Rode to Mr MCCollock's. Distance 12 miles. 

15th Rode to Mr Chumbleys on Bloody. Distance 14 m. 

16th Rode to Br Taylors. Spent the day in writing. 

17th Rode to Mr Freemens. Preched at his house. 7 miles. 

18th Rode to Br S Smiths. 2 miles. 

19th Rode to Mr Gainers. Distance 9 miles. 


Page36 




20th On the Lords [day] Preached at Mr Gainers. Communed With the Saints & Ordained Br 
James Young A deacon. 

21st Rode to Paris. Distance 10 miles. Spent the day in reading Owens & Campbells debate. Sent 
A Letter to Elder John Witmer at Kirtland. 

22nd Rode to Mr Cranshaws. Preached at his house. 15 miles. 

23rd Rode to Br Howard Williams. Distance [ ]. Herd of the Death of Sister Nancy Wood 

who died on the 13th of Sept 70 years of Age. Rode to Br Utleys. Had A Piesant interview with 
Br Utley as he had Just returned from Kirtland he brought me A letter from W Parish also A 
Book Containing the doctrins & Covenants of the Church of the Latter Day Saints as A Present 
from O Cowdery. 

Sept 24th Spent the day in Perusing the Book from Br Cowdery & found it to be A precious 
treasure A legacy from heaven. 

25th Rode to Lewis Barkers. Preached at his house. Baptized 1. Distance 5 miles. 1 Subscriber 
for M & Ad. 

26 Rode to Br West's. Preached at his house. Dis 6 mile. 

27th Sunday Rode to Br Caswell Medlock's. Preached at his house to A large Congregation Also 
in the evening at Sister Bamets. Distance 9 miles. 

28th Rode to Father Frey's. Commenced copying Journal. 

29th Continued Coppying my Journal. 

30th Preached at Br Frys. 


October 

Oct 1st Coppied Journal through the day. Rode in the evening to Br Medlocks. 2 miles. Preached 
at his house in the evening & baptized 1 one. 

2nd Rode to Br Crawley. Preached at his house. 8 m. 

3rd Rode to Br Willsons. From thence to Br Utley. 6 mile. 

[4] th Sunday Preached at Br West. 

[5] th Rode to Br Pettys. Distance 6 miles. 

[6] th Preached at Br Pettys. Then rode to Br Williams. 4 mil. 

7th Rode to Br Jackson’s. 1 mile. 


Page37 




8th Rode to David Cranshaws. Preached at his hous. 15 m. 

9th Rode to Paris. Distance 15 miles. Receieved 2 letters by male one from Brother Asahel H 
Woodruff the other from Sister Rebecca Dayton Kirtland Ohio. 

10th Rode to Col Copeland. Distance 10 miles. 

1 1th Sunday Preached at the Academy. Rode to Frasiers. 4 m. 

12th Rode to Samuel Roberts. Preached at his house. Then Rode to Br Taylors. Distance 10 
miles. 

13th Preached at Br Taylors. Receieved 2 subscribers for the M & Advocate. 

14th Rode to Concord & returned to Br Taylors 16 m. 

15th Rode to Isaac Hendricks. Preached at his house. Then Rode to Mr Clapps on Taropen. 
Preached at his house. Distance 30 miles. 

16 Rode to Br Loy's. 1 miles. 

17th Oct Preached at Mr Clapps & Baptised 1 one. Then Rode to Br Loys. Preached at his house 
and returned to Br Clapp’s. 3 miles. 

18 On the Lords day Rode to Clarks River 10 mi & Preached in the meeting house. Had A debate 
with A Campbellite Priest. Also Preached at night in the same place on the Authenticity of the 
Book of Mormon to A large Assembly. 

19th Procured 1 subscriber for M & Ad. Preached in the evening at Br Thomas'es. The Spirit of 
God rested <upon me>. 

20th I Baptized 3 Campbellites one A deacon. Then Rode 12 miles & Preached at Mr Joseph 
Greenwoods. Mr Greenwood was 81 years of Age & A revolutioner under George Washington. 
His wife who was Carding Wool Elizabeth Greenwood was 93 years of Age & well remembered 
Braddocks Army. 

21st Got 2 signers for M & Ad. Rode to Br Clapps. 3 miles. Preached in the evening at Br Claps 
/on Terropan River/ from the Lth Psalm 3, 4, 5 verses. When I opened A door for the reception of 
members by baptism When 8 came foreward & gave me their hand all were Campbellites save 1 
which was A Baptist. We repaired to the water whare the Spirit of God & the solemnities of 
Eternity rested upon us While administering the ordinance of Baptism. It was A scene that caused 
rejoicing in both heaven & Earth [-] view 3 men lead their wives into the same element whare 
our Savior had lain to obey the mandates of heaven. 

22st Preached at Br Camp’s. Got 1 signer for E & M Star. 


Page38 




23rd Rode in company with Br Benj. Clapp to Br Taylors. Distance 22 miles. 

24th Wrote A Letter to President John Whitmer Kirtland. Sent 7 subscribers for papers. 14 
baptised. Sent $5.00 money. 

Oct 25th Preached at Mr Chumley's on the Lords day. 

26th Rode to Col Copelands. 10 miles. 

27th Rode to Paris. 10 miles. Held A Council & Expeled Mrs Lucy Benton. Maled A Letter to Br 
J Whitmer dated 27st. 

28 Rode to Capt Lowerys. From thence to Br Jackson. Got 1 subscriber for M and Ad. Distance 
40 miles. 

29th Preached at Br Jacksons. Rode to Br Pettys. 2 mile. 

30 Rode to L Barkers. Preached at his house. Then Rode to Br Crawleys. 10 miles. 

3 1st Rode to Br Frys. 

November 

Novr 1st Preached at Frys. 7 miles. 

Nov 2nd Rode to Br Utleys. 10 miles. 

3rd Rode to Br Wests. Preeached at his house. Two persons had the gift of tongues. 2 mil. 

4th Rode to Br Pettys. Preached at his house. From thence to Br Jacksons. 8 mile. 

5 Wrote A Letter to Br Benton. Rode to Mr Fosters with Brother's Seth Utley & Clapp. Distance 
14 miles. 

6th Rode to Paris. 14 miles. 

7th Rode to Col Copeland’s. 10 miles. 

8th Preached in the evening at Mr Lowther. 

9th Rode to Br Taylors. 10 miles. 

10 Preached at Br Taylors. Rode to Br S Smith’s. 7 miles. 

1 1th Rode to Mr Chumbley's. 8 miles. 

12th Rode to Mr Hendricks. Preached. 12 m. 

13th Rode to Br Clapps on Taropen KY. with Br Utley. Lost our way. Travled 25 miles. 


Page39 




14th Preached at Camp’s in the evening. The Spirit of God rested upon us & signs followed the 
believer. 4 came foreward for baptism. 


NOV 15th Sunday Preached at Br Clapps /on the Terropen/ on the attributes of God & Baptized 
5 Persons. Then mounted our horses to ride to Clarks River in company with Seth Utley & four 
other Brethren & two Sisters. 

We rode to the creek but could not cross without swiming our hourses as A heavy rain had fallen 
the night & day before. As night was overtaking us & Also dangerous for females to swim their 
horses we attempted to head the creeks sufficiently to ford them. But in the attempt both in the 
darkness of the night & A hard Stonn of wind & rain overtook us. We lost our way. We had 
neither fire, light, nor road but was in rain, wind, creek, mud, & water [&?] treetops. Setting 
aside our horses & females we made more the appearance of fishermen than travelers. 

I thought of Pauls perils by water. But the Lord doth not forsake his saints even in the seventh 
trouble. For while we were in the woods grouping as the blind for the wall suffering under the 
blasts of wind, & rain A light suddenly Shone around about us without either Sun Moon or Stars 
so that we were able to reach A hous whare we receieved directions & procured some torches to 
serve us as lights. We went our way rejoiceing allthough the wind & rain beat upon us & the 
darkness returned. 

We reached Mr Henry Thomas’es house at about 9 oclock at night without much hann after 
riding 20 miles & being 5 hours in the storm & fording Creeks & branches 20 or more times 
without murmering either Male or Female & felt to thank God for preservation. 


16 Preached at the meeting house on Damonds Creek Also at Mr Thomases at candle light. 

17th Baptized one & organized the Damond’s Creek branch of the church of Latter day Saints & 
ordained Daniel Thomas A Teacher. 

Then rode to Br Loy's 12 miles Whare I in company with Seth Utley & Br Loy & his family 
were called out in the night to view the signs in the heavens Which was three clouds having the 
appearance of fire & blood one in the North one in the East one in the West each about the size 
of an acre of ground. They arose from the Earth into the air. Frequently changed their places. 


Nov 18th Rode to Br Clapps. Took the parting hand with Br Utley. 
19th Rode to Mr Greenwoods. Preached at his house. 3 mile. 

20 Rode to Mr Hendricks. Distance 10 miles. 


Page40 






21st Rode to Br Taylors. Distance 10 miles. 

22 Sunday Preached at Mr Chumbley's. 

23 Rode to Jn Gainers. Preached at his house. 10 m. 

24 Rode to Paris. 10 mile. 

25 Rode to Mr Fosters. 14 miles. 

26 Rode to J Jacksons. Preached at his house. Got 1 subscriber for M & Ad. 14 miles. 

27 Rode to Mr Barkers. Preached at his house. 6 miles. 

28 Rode to Br Crawleys. 8 miles. 

29th Rode to Br Medlocks. Preached at his house. 10 miles. 

30th Rode to Mr Jordans. Preached at his house. Returned to Br Fry's. Procured 4 subscribers for 
M & Ad Also 1 subscriber for E & M. Star. Wrote 1 Letter. 22 m. 

December 

Dec 1st Spent the day at Father Fry's in writing. Wrote 2 Letters 1 to President John Whitmer the 
other to Elder Warren Parrish both directed to Kirtland Geauga Co Ohio. Gave J Whitmer an 
account of 6 baptized. Sent 8 subscribers & $5.00 in money in since Oct 24. 


2nd Rode to Br Crawleys 8 miles Whare I unexspectedly met Elder Elias F Wells who informed 
me that Elder Daniel Cathcart was at Paryville labouring & that he would soon visit us. I expect 
Br Wells will labour with me. 

3 Rode to Br Wests. Preached at his house & in the evening. 14 m. 

4 Rode to Br Petty's. Preach at his house. 4 miles. 

5 Rode to J Jacksons. 3 miles. 

6 Sunday Rode to Capt. Lowery's. Preached at his hous. 14. 

7 Rode to Paris. Distance 20 miles. 

8th Preached at night in the Court house & while Preaching some person turned one of our horses 
loose to stray. 

9 I spent the day in writing. Wrote A Letter to my Parents. 

10 Spent the day in Paris. Got 1 subscrider for M & Ad. 


Page4 1 



1 1th Wrote A Letter to Br Asahel H Woodruff. 

12 Walked to Col Copelands 10 miles & found our stray horse. 

13 Sunday Preached at the Academy. Rode to J Youngs. 5 miles. 

14 Rode to Bloody to Br Taylors. 10 miles. 

15 Preached at Br Taylors. Rode to Freemans. 5 miles. 

16 Rode to Mr Chumbleys. 6 miles. 

17 Rode to J Hendricks. Preached at his house & Rode to Br Simeon Hendricks. 20 miles. 

Dec 18 Preached at Father Greenwoods at night. 

19 Saturday Rode to Br Clapps /on Taropan Creek/. Preached at his house & Baptized 5 persons 
4 men, 1 woman. One of the men was A Campbellite Priest. Communed with the Saints. Had a 
good time. 3 mile. 

20 Rode on Sunday to Clarks River. Preached at Mr Henry Thomases house at 12 oclock Whare 
A mob of Fifty men <was [-]> led by A Baptist Priest came out against me. But after questioning 
me on one point their leader advised them not to lay hands on no man for their principles. It was 
good advise & well taken. 

I Preached again at night at the same Place & Baptized 3 Persons. The man of the house & his 
Mother who was 78 years of age & another sister were the Persons Baptized. Rode 10 miles. 

21 Rode to Waidsborough. 7 miles. Preached in the evening to A respectable Congregation. Got 
1 signer for M & Ad. Was Kindly receieved for the night By Doct Richard Knuckle's & W. 
Frasier. 

22 Rode from Waidsborough to Mr Freemans on Bloody, KY. Distance 24 miles. 

23 Rode to Brother Levi Taylors. 4 miles. 

24 Commenced studying Kirkhams English Grammer at Br Taylors & there spent the week. 

27 Sunday Preached at Mr Chumbly's. 

28 Rode to Br Davis'es. Preached at the School house. Then rode to Col Copeland. Distance 12 
mil. 

29 Rode to S Smiths on Bloody. 12 miles. 

30 Rode to Mr Chunley's. 5 miles. 

31st of Dec the Last Day of 1835 spent at Br Taylors. 


Page42 




Thus ends the year of 1835 


The two following pages show correctly the abridgment of my Journal 1833-1898, Vol.l, travel’s 
& Proceeding of 1835. 

On the night of the last day of Dec & of the year of our Lord 1835 I Perused my Journals & 
found it to contain the following account of my travels & Procedings in the year of 1835, 
commencing the 13th of Jan. 1835 making one year 12 days excepted. 


1st Travled three thousand two hundred & forty eight miles divided in the following manner: 
3,248 

From 13th of Jan. to the 28 of June travled while holding the office of A Priest. 

1,808 miles 


212 miles in Missouri with Elder Henry Brown. 


212 miles 


656 miles in the Arkansas Territory 


608 with Brown 48 Alone 


940 miles in Tennessee 760 with Elder W. Parrish & 180 miles Alone 

940 miles 

Travled from the 28th of June to the 3 1st of Dec after holding the office of an Elder in the states 
of Tenn & KY. principally Alone. 

1,440 

The sum total 3,248 miles 


2nd I held one hundred & seventy meetings divided in the following manner: 

170 meetings 

While A Priest 10 with Elder Brown 56 with W. Parish 

4 Alone 70 and 100 after holding the office of 

an Elder 70 

Principly Alone 100 


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The Whole number 


170 meetings 


/I Planted organized & built up 3 churches./ 

3rd I Baptized forty three 8 While A Priest & 35 While an Elder. 3 Were Campbellite Priests. 
The number Baptized 43 Baptized 


& was A Partner with Elder Brown in Baptizing 2 Persons in the Arkansas & with Elder Warren 
Parrish 18 Persons in Tenn. 


4th I Procured twenty subscribers for the Latter Day Saints M & Advocate While an Elder & 4 
while A Priest 24 M & Ad Also 2 for the reprinted Star. 

2 Star 


I confirmed 35 persons 

5th I Procured seventy three signers to the Petition to the Governor of Missouri for redress of 
wrongs done the Church by the Jackson County mob 10 in Missouri 56 in the Arkansas & 7 in 
Tenn. While A Priest. 73 <signers> 


6 I Wrote eighteen Letters 8 while A Priest 10 While an Elder & receieved 10. 

1 8 Letters 


7th I ordained two Teachers & one deacon. 


3 Ordained 


8th I expeled Seven members from the Church but not While hope remained. 

7 Expeled 


9th I held three debates or answered When Publicly opposed. 

3 


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10th Three companies in the form of mobs gathered together against me at one time. The 
company consisted of about fifty men led by a Baptist Priest yet I sufferd no hann. 

3 mobs 


The before mentioned is the account of my procedings of the year of 1835, which has bourn its 
report to heaven of me & all other men & could it not have bourn more Wellcome news. Ah it 
cannot be recalled. The Sable shades of night have allready spake the departure of 1835 And the 
Queen of the night is issueing forth her brilliant light to Wellcome the dawn of 1836 Which 
approaches us in a calm to go out in a storm. O momentious & important year which Will hurl 
thy millions to the tomb & shake Kingdoms & bespeak A God in Israel. O God enable my heart 
& hands to be clean for A year to come. When God speaks Who can but Prophecy? 

{Willford Woodruff} 

The Second Book of Willford for 1836 

January 


Jan. 1st Friday Spent the day at Brother Levi Taylors Bloody KY. 

2nd Wrote A Letter to Elder W. Parrish containing 200 lines in answer to his Dated Nov 29 1835 
Which I receieved on the 1st of Jan 1836. 


3rd Preached on the Lords day at Joseph Chumbleys. Returned to Br Taylors & spent the week 
studying Kirkhams English Grammer. 

10th Sunday Met with the Saints at Mr Chumbleys. Returned to Br Taylors. Spent the week 
studying. 

16 Saturday Rode to Copelands. Distance 10 miles. 

17 Sunday Preached at the Academy after Parson Potts. Returned to Col Copeland. 4 miles. 

18 Rode to Mr Roes. Preached at his house [at] 12 oclock. Then rode to George W 

Brandons. Preached at his house at night. Got 1 subscriber for M. Ad. 16 mi.Note(2) 

19 Rode to & crossed the mouth of sandy at Authors ferry to Br Tailors. 24 miles. 


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20 Rode to Joseph Chumbleys. 1 miles. 

21st Rode to James Hendricks. From thence to Taropen. 30 m. 

22 Rode to Father Greenwoods. Preached at his house. Then Rode to Br Camps. 7 miles. 

23 Preached at Br Clapps & Blessed 10 Children in the name of Jesus Christ. Then rode to 
Clarks River distance 12 miles & collected $70.00 dollars for the building of the house of the 
Lord at Kirtland. 

24 Preached at Br Thomas'es Sunday & blessed 6 Children after I closed meeting A Baptist Priest 
William Willson arose & asked us to attend a meeting of theirs & cleer ourselves if we were not 
guilty of those things which they alledged against us. I answered him before the People & 
remarked that I was surprised to see them take the liberty & authority of the country into their 
own hands to try American citizens by. 

25 Rode to James Martins. Preached at his house Also at night. Distans 12 miles. 

26 Rode to Br Thomas'es. Preached at his house. 12 miles. 

Jan 27 Rode to Stephen Brady's. Distance 24 miles. 

28 Preached at Stephen Brady's & rode to J Freemans. 14 m. 

29 Preached at John Rowlett's & Blessed 3 Children in the name of the Lord & rode to Br 
Taylors. 5 miles. 

30 Rode to Br Smith’s. Preached at his house <and rode to Mr> Ch<umbleys.> 3 <miles>. 

3 1 Sunday Preached at Br Taylors. 


February 

Feb 1st Rode to Br Davis'es. 10 miles. Collected $5.00 dollars for building the house of the Lord 
at Kirtland Ohio. 

2 Rode to Paris 10 miles & receieved a Letter from President Whitmer at Kirtland. 

3 Rode to David Cranshaws. 14 miles. 

4 Rode to J Jacksons. Preached at his house. 14 miles. 

5 Rode to L Barkers. Preached at his house. From thence to Mr Tittles. Preached at his house. 
Distance 10 miles. 

6 Rode to Br Fry's. Procured 1 subscriber for M & Ad. 10 m. 

7 Preached at Br Fry's on Sunday. 


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8 Rode to Mr Irvin Jordans Esq. Preached at [his] house. 12 miles. 

9 Rode to Mr Dodds. Preached at his house. After closing meeting Parson Cure arose & red a 
letter from A mob man in Jackson Co opposing the Latter Day Saints. I answered him & the 
Scene closed by Sisters Lucy Ann & Susanna K Fry Singing the Sectarian Cudgel. Then rode to 
Father Frys. 15. 

10 Rode to Sister Barnetts at night <after copying journal>. 3 miles. 

1 1 Rode to Brother Fry's. Spent the day writing. 3 m. 

12 Spent the day in coppying my Journal. Rode to Sister Matlocks. Distance 2 miles. 

13 Rode to Br Frys 2 miles & there found Elder Elias F. Wells & Elder Daniel Cathcart who had 
returned with him in order to attend the conference with us at KY. It was a Pleasing interview to 
us all. 

14 Sunday Rode to Br Walkers. Preached at his house. From thence to Sisters Barnett's. 4 miles. 

15 Spent the day at Sister Matlock's to attend the sale of her Property after the Death of Deacon 
Caswell Matlock Who died Dec 24, Aged 27 Yrs. 

I Solicited Contributions through the day for the building of the house of the Lord at Kirtland 
Ohio & Procured $25.00 cts from the honourable men & Saints to be applyed to that purpose. 
Then rode to Br Crawleys. 10 miles. I also contributed $6 dollars myself for the house of the 
Lord. 


Feb 16 Rode to Br Petty's. Preached at his house 10 miles & Wrote A Letter to John Whitmer & 
Jared Carter & sent them two subscribers for M & Ad & 8 baptised since Dec 1st 1835 & sent 
them in the Letter $40 dollars & an account of $5 dollars that I sent in Seth Utley's Letter. $45 
dollars the whole. $6 dollars was for papers & $39 for the house of the Lord at Kirtland Ohio. 


17 Rode to George W Brandons in Texes. Distance 25 miles. Preached at his house at night. 

18 Preached at G W Brandons at 12 oclock. Then rode to Col S. Copeland. Distance 14 miles. 

19 Rode to Paris & receieved A Letter from Elder W Parrish Dated Jan. 3 1st 1836 Which I red 
With great delight. Then rode to Samuel Edney's. Distance 18 m. 

20 Rode to Col. Copelands. From thence to J Gainer's. 4 m. 

21 Rode to the Academy. Preached after Parson Potts. Then rode to Mr Fraziers. From thence to 
Mr Lowthers. Preached at his house. Then rode to Col Copelands. 10 miles. Got one Subscriber 


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for M & Ad. 


22 Rode to Wid. Young. Preached at her house & rode to Br Taylor's. Distance 10 miles. 

23 Rode to Br Smith’s. Preached at his house. <[ ]> 2 miles. 

24 Rode <in company> with <Elder> Cathcart & Wells & <Deacon> A O Smoot to Br Simeon 
Hendricks. 20 miles. 

25 Rode to Br Drowns. 3 miles. 


Feb 26, 1836 Met in Conference at Br Lewis Clapps on Taropen Calaway Co. KY. according to 
appointment & proceded to order. Elder Willford Woodruff was called to the Chair & Elder 
Daniel Cathcart appointed Secretary. 

The conference was opened by Prayer by President Woodruff. Elders present: Willford 
Woodruff, Elias F Wells & Daniel Cathcart. Teachers: Benjamin Clapp, Daniel Thomas, & 
Deacon Abram O Smoot. Presd't Woodruff arose & red the covenants of the Church & 
commented some upon it after which a voice was taken upon ordinations of some ones who came 
foreward for ordination And it was carried by a clear voice after Which Presdt Woodruff 
Proceded to ordain Abram O Smooth Elder & Benjamin Boydstun Elder & Daniel Thomas & 
Benjamin Clapp Priest's & James Allen Teacher & Henry Thomas & John Camp Deacons, After 
Which Seven branches of the church was represented. Presdt Woodruff represented one Branch 
on Egle Creek Benton Tenn. 15 in good standing. One at Chalk Level 21 in good standing 
Benton Co Tenn. One on Cyprus in Benton Co. Tenn. 9 in good standing. One called the 
Academy branch in Henry County Tenn 8 in good standing. One on Bloody river Henry co Tenn 
1 1 in good standing. One on Taropen in Calloway Co KY 24 in good standing. Damonds Creek 
branch KY 8 in good standing & represented. 7 remaining members scattered abroad all in good 
standing. The whole number 103 members in good standing. 

We then Proceded to appoint a Conference at Br Seth Utley's Chalk Level Benton Co Tenn on 
Saturday & Sunday the 28, 29 of May. Closed by Prayer by Elder Abram O Smoot. 


After conference closed we had an intermision of 30 minits & met again when Elder Cathcart 
taught the church the word of wisdom. I followed him upon the same subject which closed the 
duties of the Day After dividing our circuit in the following manner: Elders Cathcart and 
Boydstun labour together in KY & Elders Woodruff & Smoot labour together in Ten., & Elder 
Wells take A mishion by himself & all to meet at the Academy near Col Copelands Tenn on the 
3rd of Aprail 1836. 


Page48 





Feb 27th Preached at Br Clapps & was followed by Elders Cathcart, Wells, Smoot & Boydstun, 

& then rode to Br Johnston F Lane who had moved from Paris, Tenn to Taropen KY. & I 
Procured $23 dollars from the Brethren from for the building of the house of the Lord. 

Feb 28 Sunday Rode to Father Greenwood’s. Preached at his house then rode to Br James Allen. 
Distance 6 miles. Sister Margarett Clapp Was instantly healed at the laying on of hands of the 
Elders. 

29 Rode from Br Allens with Brothers Cathcart, Boydstun & Clapp to Mr John Clapp's on the 
Little Obine Graves Co. KY. Distance 24 miles. 

March 

March 1st 1836 Tuesday Preached at John Clapp’s it being my birth Day making me 29 years of 
Age. 

2 Rode to Mr Rice Cobb at Mayfield. Distance 12 miles. Preached at Mr Cobbs & was kindly 
receieved by the People. We left other appointment's & then rode to Br Thomases on Damonds 
Creek KY. 14 m. The whole distance 26 miles. 

3 Spent the Day in visiting the Saints the night at C Parkers. 

4 Preached at Br H Thomases. I followed <Elder> Cathcart & then rode to Br James MCcartney 
with <Elder Boydstun>. 2 miles. 

5 Rode to Mr James Martins. Preached at his house at night. I followed Elders Cathcart & 
Boydstun. 12 miles. 

6 Sunday Preached at James Martins to a large congregation. I followed Elder’s Cathcart. After 
meeting we rode to Br Thomases. Distance 12 miles. 

7 Preached at night at Br Thomas'es. Was followed <by Elder Cathcart>. 

8 Rode to Henry H Martins. Preached at his hous. I followed Elder Boydstun. Distance of the day 
14 miles. 

9 Rode to Stephen Bradys. Preached at his house upon the authenticity of the Book of Mormon & 
then rode to John Freemans. Distance 18 miles. 

10 Preached at John Rowlett's. 

1 1 Rode to Br Taylors. Distance 4 miles & collected $13 dollars for building the house of the 
Lord. 


March 12th 1836 Spent the day at Br Taylor’s in writing. Wrote two Letters one to President John 


Page49 




Whitmer & the other to Elder Warren Parris. I sent Presdt Whitmer $20 dollars of money $4 for 
M. & Advocate & $16 dollars for building the house of the Lord at Kirtland & one Subscriber for 
M & Ad. I Also sent Elder W. Parrish $20 dollars for the house of the Lord making $40 dollars 
in both Letters. I also gave them an account of the conference. $36 dollars for the house & $4 
dollars for Papers. 


March 13 Sunday Preached at Br Taylors. Communed With the Saints. After meetings visited 
Sister Chumbley Who lay apparently upon a bed of Death but Was resigned to the Will of God & 
after bidding her farewell I left in company with Elder Abram O Smoot Who has now 
commenced travling with me to Preach the gospel of the Son of God. May the Lord bless us & 
enable us to do much good. Rode to Mr John Landers. Preached at his house on the Authenticity 
of the Book of Mormon & after meeting closed held a debate with Parson Potts. 6 miles. 

14 Preached at the school house by Br Davis'es. Baptized one & rode to col Copelands. 6 miles. 

15 Rode to Paris. Had an interview with Br Benton. 10 mile. 

16 Rod to Mr Cranshaw. Distance 14 miles. 

17 Rode to Br Jacksons & met with Elder Wells. Preached at Br Jacksons. <Was followed by 
Elders Wells and Smoot.> Then travled to Br H. Williams. Distance <of the day> 16 miles. 

18 Rode in company with <Elders Wells and Smoot> to Brother Albert Petty's. 2 miles. 

19 Rode to Mr Sanders. Preached at his house. 10 miles. 

20 Sunday Rode to Br Joseph Preys on Eagle Creek. Preached at his house. Distance 18 miles. 

21 Spent the day at Br Frys writing in company With Elders Smoot & Wells. 

22 Spent the day writing. Rode in the evening to Sister Matlocks <with Elder Smoot and Sister 
Frey>. 

23 Spent the day visiting the saints & the night at Sister [Mat?]lock. 

24 Took the parting hand of the Saints on Egle Creek <and> rode to <Brother [Carl's?] and 
West's and rode to> Seth Utleys. 15 miles. 

25 Rode to Br Thomas Hubs <with Elder Smoot>. 1 mile. <Elder Wells> Baptised 1 <person>. 

26 Rode to Br Wests. Preached at his house. Was followed by Elders Smoot & Wells. Distance 6 
mile. 

27 Sunday Rode to Br A Pettys. Preached at his house <followed by Elders Wells [and] Smoot>. 
The Spirit of God rested upon us. Rode to Br Wilsons. <Walked with a number of friends to 


Page50 




attend a Methodist meeting and> Spent the night at Mr Tittle. 10 miles. 

28 Spent the day in reading & Writing. Preached at night at Mr Tittles. Had much of the Spirit of 
God. I <was followed by Elder Wells>. Warned them of the judgments of God. 

Soon after the meeting was dissmissed Miss Elizabeth Wilson was attacked with violent 
sickness. <Elder Wells and myself assisted her throughout the night.> We thought she would 
soon depart but the Lord was merciful unto her. <Elizabeth was a lady possessing a generous 
heart a refined mind and adoring and expanded> thought <celebrated for her accomplishment and 
the knowledge and right she possesses and [uses] her> qualifications <to the best advantages 
Elizabeth had much influence in the society of her acquaintance esspecially her sect. 

March 29th Walked to Mr Malins to attend the ordinance of baptism <which was> administered 
by Elder Wells unto Mrs Tittle. Then returned to Mr Tittles. I wrote A Letter to Elder Calvin H 
Nicholson. <1 spent the night with Miss Elizabeth Wilson notwithstanding her low state of health 

1 had an [interesting?] discourse with her on spiritual subjects. <She acknowledges us to be 
servants of God and that our precepts and doctrine are supported by the> word <of God and that 
we possessed the greater light in these last days>. 

30 <1 took the parting hand with Miss Elizabeth Wilson and> Rode to Br Jacksons. From thence 
to Mr Brannons in Texas <with Elder Wells>. Preached at night. Distance of the day 3 miles. 

3 1 Baptized 2 <persons and> rode to Mr Wm Roes. Preached at his house then rode to Mr 
Lightners. Preached at his house. <1 followed Elder Wells. > Distance <of the day> 7 miles. 

April 

Aprail 1st Rode from Br Brannons to Col Copelands. 14 m. 

2 Rode to Young's <with Elder Wells. Elder Wells said [— ].> I wrote A Letter to Elder Parish at 
Kirtland Ohio. <1 sent him the> prospectus <of> monnonism from the methodist paper printed at 
Nashville <also> other <examples from the same paper>. 3 mile. 


3 Rode to the Academy <with> Br Young on Sunday. <Had no meeting in consequence of> rain. 
We was soon Joined By Elders Cathcart, Boydstun, & Smoot. We rode to Col Copeland Whare I 
learned from <Elders> Boydstun & Smoot that there began to Be discords <and [--]> in some 
branches of the church in consequence of the teaching of Elder Cathcart which I was sorry to 
hear. Distance of the day 6 miles. 

4 I took the parting hand with my Brethren & start to visit the churches that were left in 
commotion by unwise procedings of Elder Cathcart. I rode to Mr Joseph Chumbley. Entered his 
house but found sister Mary Chumleys place was vacant. Her spirit had gone to the Paradis of 
God. She died in the truiumphs of faith in the New & Everlasting covenant on the 24th of May 


Page5 1 





1836 Aged 59 Years. <Rode to> Br Tailors. 10. 

5 Rode to Br Smith. Preached at his house to Br Tailor. 4 m. 

6 Rode to James Hendricks. From thence to Br Bradys & to Br Lane. Distance [of the]<day> 22 
m. Here I learned the <circumstance the> church was in by the conduct of <Elder> Cathcart. <1 
strove to remove the [-].> 

Aprail 7th Rode to Br Simeon Hendricks & spent the day in teaching them & striving to reinstate 
them into their former faith & fellowship which had been shaken by wrong constructions upon 
the Law of the Church &c by Elder Cathcart. These are days of trial. Who is weak & I am not 
weak? Who is offended & I bum not? O my God give me wisdom & spirit to feed the flock & 
proclaim against every evil spirit. Held a debate With Mr Alfred Loy. I warned him of 
<judgement>. 

8 Rode to Father Greenwood’s. Preached at his house at 12 oclock also at Br Bradys at candle 
light and then rode to Br Clapps. <Distance of the day> 8 mil. 

9 Spent the day in visiting the Saints Striving to unite them in love faith and truth. Preached at 
night at Br Camps. Had much of the Spirit of God. 

10 Sunday Preached at Br Clapps & communed with the Saints. I felt to rejoice to find the Saints 
beginning to be united in faith & love <as they were before they were deceived by the false 
precepts and example of Elder Cathcart>. Rode to J Turnbow. 2 m. 

1 1 Rode in <company with> Br Benj Clapp to Fellsanna Graves co KY. Preached at night at Mr 
Joseph Lasswells. 22. 

12 Rode to Mr Southerlin H Johnsons. Preached at his house <in the Spirit of God from the 
gospel [in/and?] Book of Mormon. Some were believing.> Got one subscriber for M & Ad. 
<Distance of the day> 6 miles. 

13 Rode to John Clapps <with> Br <Clapps where I took the parting hand>. Preach at Mr 
Clapps. <Distance of the day> 10 miles. 

14 Rode to Rice Cobbs. Preached at his house & rode in company with Mr Joshua Shelton to his 
house. Preached at Mr Sheltons at night. 16 miles. 

15 Left Mr Sheltons <and> rode to Mr David Hodges. Preached at his house. Distance 8 miles. 

16 Rode to Br Daniel Thomas'es. Preached at his house at night <on the> 14 c 12 v <olY Rev. 
<Distance> 14 miles. 

17 Sunday Preached at the School house on Damond Creek & baptized one & preached at night 
at Sister Parkers to a large congregation. 

18 Rode to Br H Thomases. Spent the day at his house. /[4?]./ 


Page52 




19 Rode to Br Levi Taylors on Bloody Tenn. & the[re?] Glorious to here I learned that Elder 
David Patten (one of the twelve Apostles of Jesus Christ Chosen in these last days) had arived. 
Was at Col Copeland’s in 8 or 10 miles of me. From Br Taylors I rode to Mr Freemans. From 
thence to John Rowle[tt’s] Whare I had an interview with Elder O Smoot. 

It was A happy meeting. He had Been with Elder Patten & his wife for several days. Br Smoot 
related the news to me from Br Patten which was glorious in the first degree. He gave me an 
account of the endowment at Kirtland Ohio. The heavens Was opened unto them. Angels & 

Jesus Christ was seen of them sitting at the right hand of the father. 

He also informed me that Elder W Parish (& his wife) one of the first seventy with some others 
of the first Elders was expecting to visit us & also the second seventy was chosen & that I was 
one of the number. O God prepare me for the Battle while combating error with everlasting truth. 
The above are great blessings indeed. Distance of the day 30 miles. 

20 Preached at John Rowletts & rode to Br Taylors. 5 m. 

2 1 Rode to Mr John Gainers Whare I was Privleged with a happy interview with Elder David 
Patten also Sister Patten his wife. Br [ ] Preached. I followed him. Rode after meeting <in 
company with Elders Patten Smoot and Sister Patten and Taylor>. 16 m. 

22 Rode to Br S. Smiths <with Elders Patten and Smoot>. 2 miles. 

23 Rode to Br Tailors. Preached at his house. 2 miles. 

24 Rode to Br Davises <with Brother and Sister Patten>. Sunday Preached in the grove to a large 
congregation. <1 followed Elder Patten.> I baptized one & confirmed two by the waters. Rode to 
Col Copeland. Distance of the Day 13 miles. 

25 Spent the Day at Col Copelands. 

26 Rode to Mr Cranshaw <with Elder and Sister Patten>. Preached at his house. Distance of the 
Day 12 miles. 

27 Baptized 3 persons. <Had a good time.> Travled to Br Jacksons. 14 m. 

28 Travled to Br Pettys <and retumed> to Br Jacksons. Preached at his house. <Elder Patten led 
the meeting. Elders Wells Smoot Patten and myself> then rode to Br Utleys. From thence to Br 
Willsons. 12 m. 

29 Rode to Br Seth Utley's. <Spent the night at his house. Distance> 4 miles. 

30 Rode <with Elders Patten Wells Smoot> to Mr Shorts. Preached at his house. 12 m. 

May 


Page53 




May 1st Sunday Rode to Col Irvi Cams. Preached at his house. <1 followed Elder Patten.> Then 
rode to Br A B Wilson. Preached at his house. I followed Br Patten. <1 had the spirit of God and 
of Prophecy.> I Prophesied to the people of the Judgments of God that awaits them. After 
meeting I walked to Mr Tittle & Preached the word to him & he arose and I Baptized him at the 
midnight hour. Distance 14 miles. 

2 Rode to James Mericks. Preached at his house. 6 miles. 

May 3 Rode to Father Frys <with Elder Patten>. Distance 10 miles. 

4 Preached at Br Frey's at candle light. <Elder Patten lead the meeting.> 

5 Spent the day at Br Frey's copying my Journal & studying the HEBREW <with Elder Patten>. 

6 Spent the day studying & writing at Br Frys. 

7 Travled to Sisters Barnett's <with Elder Patten>. 3 miles. 

8 Sunday Preached at Sister Barnetts. <Elder Patten> took <the> lead of the meeting. Rode to Br 
Walkers. Preached <at his> house. 

9 Rode to Br Frey. Wrote A Letter to my Parents. Then rode to Br Crawleys. <Distance of the 
day> 10 miles. 

10 Rode to Br Wilsons. From thence to Br Wests. 6 miles. 

1 1 Rode to Br Wilsons. Preached at his house. Elder Patten took the lead. Returned to Br West. 4 
miles. 

12 Travled to Br Utleys. I wrote with Elder Patten /to Joseph Smith jr. <Sent> $3 <for> papers./ 

13 Rode to Br Petty's. Preached at his house. Elder Patten Preached in the Spirit of God. I 
Baptized 3 persons. 5 miles. 

14 Rode to Col Rutherfords. Preached at his house. 10 m. 

15 Crossed Tennessee River <with Elder Patten>. Rode to Mr Rogers. Preached at his house on 
Sunday to a large congregation. Elder Patten Preached. <1 followed him.> Then rode to Br Utley. 

16 mile. 

16 Spent the day visiting the Saints the night at Br Wilson. 4 m. 

17 Baptised Margaret Tittle. She was healed by the laying on of hands. Rode to Cade A Crawley. 
4 miles. 

18 Left Br & Sister Patten at Br Crawley & Walked to Mr Beards. <He rejected my testimony.> 
From thence to James Mor[gan?]. /From thence to Esq Jordans. / 


Page54 




19 <[— ] .> From thence to Sister Matlocks. I their found Elder Boydstun & returned to Br Fry's 
whare we was soon Joined By Br & Sister Patten. <Distance> 12 mile. 

20 Spent the day at Br Frys in writing & walked in company with Elder Boydstun to Sister 
Matlocks. 2 miles. 

2 1 Spent the day at Sister Matlocks Studying <[ ]>. 

22 Sunday Walked to Br Frys to attend a meeting according to appointment Which commenced 
at 10 AM. Elder Patten Preached three discourses: <The> 1st from the Parable in the fore Part of 
the 20th Ch Math the 2nd from Ephe 1.10 & 3rd from the Authenticity of the Book of Mormon. 
After the close of the last discours Mr Rose rejected the testimony given & called on Br Patten to 
rase the dead that he might believe. Br Patten rebuked him sharply for his infidelity & unbelief. 
We then communed with the Saints. 

I then retired from the scene with Elders Patten & Boydstun to a stream of pure water & cleansed 
our hands & feet & testified against that people who had threatened us & rejected our testimony. 
We delivered them unto the hands of God <and the destroyer. O God, thy will be done.> 

May 23rd Travled to Br Crawley's. From thence to Br Tittles with Elder Boydstun. 10 miles. 

24 Spent the day visiting the Saints [of] the Cyprus branch of the Church. The proceedings of the 
day were as follows: Travled to Mr Joseph Ash & found the family shaken in their faith three of 
which were members of the Church. They were shaken by the conduct of Br John Jackson Who 
was a Teacher in the church but had denied the faith & now become hostile. From thence to Br 
Petty. From thence to John Jacksons house. He was absent. Found his wife Sister Jackson turning 
from the faith & desireing to leeve the church. Walked from thence to Br Howard Williams. He 
had lost faith & desired to leav the church. His wife Sister Williams Also Sister Nancy Wood 
both were unbelieving & a prospect of their leaving the church & this by the influence of John 
Jackson. 

We then returned to Mr Jacksons. Had an interview with him. He denied all his former faith & 
pretentions. He raged much. Was filled with the spirit of anger wrath <and the destroyer>. He 
rejected our testimony <and denied the revelations of Christ>. 

We left his house at 10 oclock at night & went to a stream of Pure water & clensed our hands & 
feet & testified against him that our garments might be clear of his blood. We then walked to Br 
Petty's & spent the night. Distance of the day 12 miles. 

25th Walked to Br Wilson’s. Distance of the day 3 miles. 

26 Walked to Br Wests With Elders Patten & Boydstun. 

27 Elder D. W. Patten held a council or an interview at Br Wests With Elder Cathcart Boydstun 
& myself to inquire into our teaching & found Elder Cathcart had tought Wrong. We then 


Page55 




travled to Br Seth Utley whare we was soon Joined by Brothers Clapp, Allen, & Thomas from 
KY. Also Elders Smoot & Wells & our Beloved & worthy Brother Warren Parrish Who had 
came direct from Kirtland Ohio to attend the conference & labour in this South Country for the 
season. We truly had a happy interview. 2 miles. 


/May 28/ At a conference convened at Br Seth Utleys agreeable to appointment on the 28 day of 
may 1836 congregation called to order & Elder David W Patten nominated & seconded to 
officiate as chairman & Elder Warren Parish Secretary. Opened by singing & Prayer & Proceded 
to business. 

The chairman made some preliminary remarks touching the object & order of the meeting & 
called upon the official members to inform the conference in what manner they had tought also 
their present faith in the fulness of the gospel as contained in the bible book of mormon & book 
of doctrins & covenants. Elder W. Woodruff was called upon to offer us his feelings upon the 
subject which he did to our entire Satisfaction. The Chairman then Called upon all the official 
members present to rise upon their feet if they concured in what Elder Woodruff had said. The 
vote was unanimous. Also the Church concured in the same. 

Benjamin Clapp Priest then arose & represented the Taropen Branch Which consists of 28 
members in good standing. Daniel S. Thomas represented the Clarks River branch consisting of 9 
members in good standing. Elder A. O. Smoot represented Blood River branch consisting of 10 
members in good standing. Elder Woodruff represented the Academy Branch consisting of 10 
members in good Standing with the exception of their not altogether observing the word of 
wisdom. Deacon A B. Wilson represented the Chalk Level branch Consisting of 27 members in 
good standing with the exception of some few who have been Shaken of late by the ungodly 
conduct & teaching of John Jackson Which was a Teacher in the Cyprus branch but has now 
apostatized. Elder Woodruff represented the Eagle Creek branch consisting of 15 members in 
good standing Also Cyprus branch consisting of 10 members 3 of which have apostatized. John 
Jackson their Teacher is one of the number. 3 are disaffected & 4 in good standing. Also 7 
members scattered abroad not recognized with any branch. 

John Jackson Was expeled by the conference. Sister Jackson & Howard Williams had their 
names withdrawn from the church by their request & the voice of the church. 

Deacon Abel B Wilson & Jesse Turpin was ordained Priest & Albert Petty Teacher under the 
hand of Elder W Parrish. The move was made by the chairman & a unanimous vote given by the 
church for the above ordinations. A vote [was] called & unanimously carried that Elder Elias F 
Wells Shall receieve a letter of commendation to the Church in Kirtland. Congragation 
dissmissed by Singing with the blessing of God. 

An action was Prefered against Elder D Cathcart by Elder Wells for unchristian conduct & the 
conference of Official members repaired from Br Utleys to Br S West's to try the case. Elder 


Page56 




Cathcart was Convicted of unchristian conduct & fals Teachings & being led by evil spirits 
which was supported by strong testimony. He confessed his faults & asked forgivness Which was 
granted him on condition that he would repair the wrongs Which he had done in the different 
branches of the church Which he Promised to do. He was then restored to fellowship. The 
conference closed by Prayer Which closed the Proceedings of the DAY. 


May 29th Sunday Met at Br S. Utleys at 10 AM according to appointment. Elder W Parrish 
Preached in the former Part of the day & Elder D. W. Patten in the latter Part of the day. They 
both Preached in the Power & spirit of God although threatened by wicked men we were not 
hanned. We communed with the Saints & Closed by singing THE SPIRIT OF GOD LIKE A 
FIRE IS BURNING. 


30 Travled with Elders Patten & Parrish to Br Frys. Held a meeting at his house. Elder Parrish 
Preached & was followed by Elder Patten & both filled with the Power of God. 10 miles. 

WO IS ME IF I PREACH NOT THE GOSPEL 


Spent this 3 1st DAY of MAY at Br Fry Eagle Creek and found it to be the most interesting, 
important & instructive day of my LIFE. For on this Glorious DAY I was ordained unto the High 
Priesthood and also as one of the Second Seventy & sealed up unto Eternal LIFE under the hands 
of my Beloved Brethren, VIZ Elder's David W Patten & Warren Parrish. My ordination was 
requested by the PRESIDENCY of the Church at Kirtland Ohio. 

Their was glorious things Pronounced upon my head in my ordination by the spirit of Prophecy 
& Revelation. Some I will mention which are as follows: That although my enemies would strive 
to take my life & confine me in dungeons & Prisons yet God should give me power over my 
enemies & deliver me out of their hands & from their vaults, Prisons, & caves in the name of 
Jesus Christ, & that men would bow at my feet & worship me if I did not say to them do it not & 
that Kings would bow before me & Princes give me their hand & that I Should Baptize them into 
the Kingdom of God & that I should be blessed on the EARTH When my head blossomed with 
age & if I desired it I should remain on the Earth untill the comeing of the Savior & that God 
would give me the desire of my heart & that God had had his eye upon me all my life long to 
prepare me for this work. YEA <even when my spirit was [praying?] around the throne of God 
[--]> that I should travel to the nations of the Earth & the Islands of the sea to Proclaim the word 
of God. When these and other blessings were Pronounced upon my head I Was filled With the 
Power & Spirit of God. EVEN SO LET IT BE. AMEN. 

O GOD THE ETERNAL FATHER I ASK THE IN THE NAME OF JESUS CHRIST TO 
PREPARE ME FOR THY USE AND GIVE ME THE SPIRIT OF MY MISHION. 


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A true copy of a license conveyed to me from Kirtland Ohio: 


TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN 

THIS Certifies that Willford Woodruff has been receieved into the Church of Latter Day Saints 
organized on the Sixth of April in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and thirty and 
has been ordained an elder according to the rules and regulations of said church and is duly 
authorized to Preach the gospel agreeably to the authority of that office. From the satisfactory 
evidence which we have of his good moral character and his zeal for the cause of righteousness 
and diligent desire to persuade men to forsake evil and embrace truth we confidently recommend 
him to all candid and upright people as a worthy member of society. 

We therefore in the name and by the authority of this church grant unto this our worthy brother in 
the Lord this letter of commendation as a Proof of our fellowship and esteem, praying for his 
success and prosperity in our Redeemers cause. 

Given by the direction of a conference of the Elders of said church assembled in Kirtland Geauga 
county Ohio the third day of March in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and thirty 
six. 


JOSEPH SMITH Chairman 
F. WILLIAMS Clerk 

Kirtland Ohio, May 2nd 1836 

This certifies that the within (Above) Licence was recorded on the 2d Day of May 1836 in 
Kirtland Ohio in the Licence Records Book A, Page 97. 

THOMAS BURDICK 
Recording Clerk 

/Warren Parrish Ordained Wilford Woodruff an Elder June 28 1835./ 


While holding the Office of an Elder from the 28th of June 1835 to the 3 1st of May 1836 I 
Travled 2,557 Miles & held 182 meetings Baptized 48 Persons, Blessed 19 children in the name 
of JESUS CHRIST Ordained 2 Elders 2 Priest 3 Teachers 3 Deacons & Procured 23 Subscribers 
for M & Ad & 2 for the star & $95 dollars for the House of the LORD at Kirtland, Wrote 18 
Letters held 7 debates 2 conferences 5 <persons> healed under my hand 3 mobs gathered 
together against me. 

I also on this 3 1st Day of May Wrote a Letter to President O Cowdery Kirtland Ohio containing 


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one subscriber for M & Ad & $2 dollars for M & Ad. This Letter contained the substance of the 
two Letters I mailed for Kirtland Dated March 12, 1836 Which We suppose are lost. I sent this 
Letter & money by the hand of Elder Elias F Wells who was going direct to Kirtland & may God 
give him a safe return. 


June 

JUNE 1st Spent the day at Br Frys in writing. I took the Parting hand with Elders Patten & 
Parrish. 

2nd THE time had now come for me to take the Parting hand with the saints on Eagle Creek & 
the regions round about & Perhaps for the last time untill Israel is gathered. Elder Smoot & 
myself took the Parting hand with Elder Cathcart & Father Frys household Who had long 
entertained the Saints Kindly. It was an affecting scene. Then travled to Br Crawleys. From 
thence to Br Wilsons & after conversing an hour with them I took the Parting hand with Br 
Wilson & his family. <Elizabeth gave me> much <encouragement that she would become a Saint 
and go to Zion with her father. O God I ask thee in the name of Christ to save the family. > From 
thence to Br Tittles. Parted with his family. From thence to Br Wests. From thence to Br Pettys 
Whare I spent an hour with the Precious Saints of God & Supped at the table of this Israelite (in 
whom there is no guile) in company with the Saints & Br & Sister Patten & Br Parrish. After 
Supper I took the Parting hand With these Beloved friends (I say Beloved for God Knows they 
occupy a conspicuous Place in my heart) & returned to Br West. Distance of the day 20. 

3rd Took the Parting hand with Br Wests & his family & rode on Jude a beast of Br Wests to Br 
Utleys. Took the Parting hand With him & his family. Then rode to Tennessee River. Crossed at 
Kirkmans ferry. From thence to Mr Roggers. Preached at his house. Wrote a letter to <Miss 
Elizabeth Wilson> upon the subject of religion. 

4th Rode from Mr Roggers to Mr William B Aments at the rolling mill Steward County Tenn. 
Distance of the day over a rough road 40 miles. 

5 Sunday Preached at Mr Aments to a respectable People. Was so[..] to leave another 
appointment. Rode through Dover. Crossed the river at the mouth of Sandy. From thence to Br 
Taylors on Bloody. 30 mil. 

June 6th Elders Patten & Parrish arived at Br Taylors in the morning & I rode in company with 
them to James Hendricks. Elder Parish tarried & Elder Patten rode with me to Br Lanes whare 
we spent the night. <Distance> 20 m. 

7th Elder Parrish came to Br Lanes & we all rode to Br Clapps to attend meeting. Elder Patten 
Preached on the Law of the Church & Elder Parrish on Charity & the gifts or body of Christ. I 
<and Elder Wells> testified to the truth. <Distance> 5 miles. 


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8th Rode in Company with Elders Patten, Wells & Parrish & other Brethren to Br Henry 
Thomas'es on Damond Creek KY. Lewis Clapp was healed under our hands. 12 mile. 

9th Held a meeting at the meetinghouse. Elder Patten Preach at 1 1 oclock AM & Elder Parrish at 
2 PM. When Elder Parrish closed Elder Patten arose bound the Law & Scealed the testimony & 
Prophesied upon the heads of some of the ungodly People who were Present. 

We then repaired to the water & Elder Patten Baptized 2. One was Father Henry Thomas A 
Revolutionary Soldier & served under George Washington. Elder Patten was filled with the 
Power of God. Numbers were healed of sickeness. 

10th Took the Parting hand with Elders Wells & Boydstun as on this morning Br Wells started 
for Kirtland. I also took the Parting hand with Elders Patten & Parish who was going to middle 
Tennessee while I & Elder Smoot labour in KY & meet at the conference. 

1 1th Spent the day at Br Thomases copying my Journal. Preached at Daniel Thomases at 5 PM & 
communed with the Saints. 

12th Rode With Br Daniel Thomas to Mr Thomas Bonds. Preached at his house on Sunday, 
Caloway Co. KY. Then rode to James Martins. Distance of the day 15 miles. 

13 Preached at Mr Josias Shorts in the Spirit of God. 3 miles. 

14 Rode to & Preached at Mr Davids Carters Graves Co. KY. 5 m. 

15 Rode to Mr William J Hodges MCcracken County KY. 8 m. 

June 16 Rode to Paducah MCcracken Co. KY. Preached at night at the court house to an 
attentive Congregation. Spent the night with Priest Isaiah Benton. Distance 10 m. 

17 Rode to William J Hodges. 10 miles. 

18 Preached at the Public meeting house. 

19 Sunday Preached at the meeting house. Priest Benton Spoke. 

20 Rode to Josias Short's. Preached at his house. Had a good time. Found many believing. 12 
miles. 

21 Rode to Br Thomas'es. Visited the Saints. Had a severe cold on my longues. Distans 12 miles. 

22 Rode to Br Clapps. Was quite unwell <with a cold>. 12 miles. 

23 Preached at Br Camps. Was joined by Elder Smoot. 

24 Rode with Br's Smoot & Clapp to Mr Jeremiah B. Murphys Weakly County Tenn. Distance 

25 m. 


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25 Rode to & Preached in the Court house at Dresden. From thence Mr MCclures. Preached at 
his house. 8. 

26 Sunday Preached at the Court house in Dresden. Elder Smoot & Priest Clapp followed me. 
Then rode to Mr John Bowers. Preached at his house. <Distance> 10 m. 

27 Rode to the Baptist Meeting house on Thompson’s Creek. In Consequence of falshoods from 
Parson Browning the Baptist shut the doors against us. Parson Browning appeared angry at me & 
my brethren for rectifying his errors & falshood's. I asked the privileg to Speak to the people 
either from the fence or a Stump or cart or in the street. One man gave us liberty to stand on his 
land opposite the meeting house. We assembled & Preached to the People & was blessed with 
the Spirit of God. We then rode to Randolph Alexander Weakly County Tenn. Distance of the 
day 15 m. 

28th After Selling a Book of Mormon to Mr Alexander We then Rode to Mr Alexander 
MCKinzies in weakly county Tenn. <Distance> 20 miles. 

June 29th Preached at Mr MCKinzies. Held a dabate with a Baptist Priest after meeting & selling 
a Book of Mormon to MCKinzies We Rode to Mr David Criders Gibson Co Ten. 7 m. 

30 Spent the day at Mr Criders. I <and Brothers Smoot and Clapp went to the woods to pray. The 
power of God sat on us. We prayed with the spirit of prophecy. I sealed> up <my brethren and 
prophesied on their heads great blessings by the Spirit of God. > 

July 

July 1st Preached at Mr David Criders & spent the night With Elder Smoot at a Baptist Priest's A 
Mr Bradford a Predestinarian though rather inclining to the faith of Mr Hunt a fanatic Who called 
himself Moses and Bradford Aaron Hunts visitors were speckled birds it is said. 

2 Rode to Mr Randolph Gilbert's Weakly Co. Tenn. 25. 

3 Sunday Preached at the Green hill School house in Carroll County Tenn. to a large respectable 
Congregation on the authenticity of the Book of Mormon. Also Preached at 5 PM at Mr William 
MClesky. The People were much excited. Many were our friends some Believing & some 
accused us of being Abolitionest. I red the 7th No of the M & Ad. Which put to silence those 
falshoods. I obtained 2 subscribers for M & Ad. 6 m. 

4 Rode to Mr Martin Maxwells. Preached at his house upon the parable of the vineyard spake by 
the Prophet Zenas. Spent the night at Maxwell. Had much Conversation With A Company of 
Atheist esspecially their Celebrated leader Mr Cathy. I retired to bed at 12 oclock & was attacked 
with a fever, Pain in the breast & soreness of longues in Carroll County Tenn. Distance 3 miles. 

5 Arose in ill health & rode to Mr Gilberts with Br's Smoot & Clapp. From thence to the Baptist 
meeting house by Mr Winns in which house we held a meeting. 7 miles. 


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6 My health some improved. Rode to Jeremiah B Murphy's. 15. 

7 Took the Parting hand with Priest Clapp who returned home. Spent the day in writing. Wrote 
three Letters one to R M Gilbert one to A MCKinzie & one to David Crider & then rode to Mr 
John Bowers. 2 miles. 

8 Arose in the morning sick with the french Measles But Preached at Mr Bowers & rode to R 
Alexanders to an appointment. I lay abed While Elder Smoot Preached. Then I arose & made 
some remarks. I spent a vary sick night & in much pain. Distance of the day 6 mile. 

July 9th Arose refreshed in some degree & rode to Boydsville. From thence to Taropen Whare I 
found Br Boydstun With the Church & I Perused the 7th No of the M & Ad. <Distance of the 
day> 25 miles. 

10 Sunday Held a meeting with the Taropen branch & communed with the Saints at Br Clapp's. 

Then rode to Br Bradys whare we spent the night in company with Brother & Sister Lane with 
their Son David Patten. 4. 

1 1 Rode to Br Taylers on Bloody. Distance of the day 20 m. 

12 Rode to John Freemans & returned to Br Taylors. 8. 

13 Wrote two Letters one to A. B. Wilson one to Elias F Wells. 


14 Wrote A Letter to President O. Cowdery Kirtland. Sent him 9 Subscriders for M & Ad & gave 
him an account of my Procedings & wrote upon the Abolition question. Note(3) 

15 Receieved a Letter from Elder Parrish Dated Kirtland Ohio Aprail 20th 1836. Communed 
with the Saint. 

16 Rode with Elder Smoot from Blood River Henry Co. Tenn. to Cumberland rolling mill 
Stewart County Tenn. Crossed Tennessee River at Winns ferry. 40 miles. 

17 Sunday Preached at Mr Aments Inn at 1 1 AM Also at 3 PM to a large Congregation. Sold a 
Book of Mormon. Procured 3 Subscribers for M & Ad. Spent the night at the rolling mill at Mr 
William B Amant. 

1 8 Rode to Mr Askeues ferry. Elder Smoot & myself rowed ourselves & horses across the 
Tennessee River in the ferry boat after droping one oar into the River & having to use another 
broaken one we landed with a circulation of Blood & blistered hands. From thence we passed 
through the Texas. Forded Sandy at the sholes. Elder Smoot swam the river. I Crossed below. 
From thence we rode to Mr Thomas Fraziers. Spent the night with him. Distance of the day 35 m. 


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19 Rode to Col Solomon Copeland Henry County Tenn Whare I learned that Elders David Patten 
& Warren Parrish had addressed a Letter to Col Copeland Stating that the Sheriff & other officers 
of Benton County Tenn had issued a warrant against them & myself. The crime alledged against 
us was that we had taught that Christ would come in this generation & that we said some 
individuals would receieve the Holy Ghost in 24 hours. But as I was absent myself I was not 
taken but Elders Patten & Parrish was taken by an armd company say 50 in number. They were 
bound under $2,000.00 dollars bond for their appearence at court. Brothers Seth Utley & Albert 
Petty was their bondsman. 

On Tuesday following they appeared at court to plead their own cause like St. Paul. But they 
were deprived of every Privilege that both the law of God & man Warrents them. Elder Parish 
Pled his own cause in some degree but no evidence or lawful hearing was not granted them & the 
judges decided this mock trial to suit the ungodly rabble & condemned them Without any cause 
of Guilt found in them & after condemning they let them go clear. But the ungodly mob desired 
to beat them before they left but they were not Pennited. 

O, thou God of Israel Stretch fourth thy hand & save thy Saints. O, America hide thy face in 
shame & disgrace as the day dawns While thy Sons Stab liberty to the heart by Persecuting 
beating & Puting the LATTER DAY SAINTS to death for worshiping God after the dictates of 
their own conscience for thou wast built upon the Pillars of freedom. 

Rode from Col Copelands to Br Tailors. Distance of the day 10 miles. 

/They were taken June 19 & tried June 22nd 1836./ 


20 Rode to Br Linzy Braidy's. Distance of the day 20 miles. 

2 1 Held a Prayer meeting at Brother Camps. 4 miles. 

22 Wrote a Letter to Sister Margaret Atkinson. 

23 Rode to Randolph Alexanders Weakly County Tenn. 20 m. 

24 Sunday Preached at Alexanders in the grove to many. 

25 Rode to Mr Bowers. Preached at his house. Spent the night at Jeremiah Murphys. Distance 6 
miles. 

26 Rode to A MCKinzies. Spent the night at Mr Hues. 16 miles. 

27 Preached at Mr Hues & rode to David Criders Gibson County Tenn. Distance 14 miles. 


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July 28 We herd that a mob was intending to come against us on Saturday & Sunday. 

29 Rode to Trenton Gibson Coun. Tenn. & returned. 14 m. 

30 Saturday Preached at David Criders on the Book <of> Monnon. 

3 1 Sunday Preached at David Criders to a large congregation & no mobing manifest but I 
baptized Mr David Crider amid darkness, blindness, scoffs Snears, & the Prejudices of ungodly 
men. We confirmed him in his family <[-]>. 


August 

Aug 1st Rode to Mr R Gilberts weakly County Tenn. 25 m. 

2 Took JUDE the beast that I had been riding for the last year (that belong’d to Br Samuel West) 
out of the stable to ride to the Green Hill School house to attend to an appointment for Preaching 
& found her verry lame & sick. Their was many observations relative to her sickness. The final 
Conclusion was that She was Poisond. I rode her to meeting & Preached. From thence to William 
MCleskey's distance 4 miles Which was the last time that I or any Person ever rode this beast 
spoken of Above. 

3 Arose & found my beast still worse. Elder Smoot went to attend a previous appointment for 
Preaching. I tarried to attend to Jude my sick beast but in a few hours she fell to the Earth & 
struggled for about an hour uncommon for Beast & Died. I opened her & became convinced for 
myself it was Poison. Thus ended the life of Jude a beast who had carried me thousands of miles 
to Preach the gospel of Jesus Christ. Also hath carried other Elders many miles on the same 
errand. I am now left on foot. May I be reconciled to all the Providences of God While I 
tabernacle in the flesh. 


4 Travled to Br Murphys in 2 1/2 miles of Dresden. 14 mile. 

5 Travled to Mr Alexanders. Distance 5 miles. 

6 Preached at Mr Alexanders and Baptized 2 Brother & Sister Murphy. <Brother Murphy was 
dissatisfied because he had not received the Holy Ghost as he expected. Probably looking for [a 
person was?] not [-] the [cause/case?]. We told him to consider the subject well.> 

7 Sunday Preached at Mr Bowers from 8.9: 10: 1 1 Chapter of Romans. Spent the night at Mr 
Bowers /no Murphys/. 5 miles. 

8 Wrote a Letter to Elders James Blakesly & G Dutcher. 

Aug [9] Wrote a Letter to Br David Crider & rode a hors of Brother Murphys in company with 
Elder Smoot to Taropen Caloway County KY. Distance of the day 25 miles. 


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10 Rode to Bloody & Wrote a Letter to Br West. 20 m. 

1 1 Rode to John Gainer's Whare I had a happy interview With Elder & sister Patten who had just 
been driven from Benton County Tenn by a lawless mob because of Pure religion. Elders Patten 
& Parrish were both hunted by the ungodly rabble from place to Place untill Elder Parish left for 
Kirtland & Elder Patten Came to Mr Gainers. Persecutions rage among the Gentiles. Behold the 
signs of the times. Distance of the day 10 miles. 

12 Rode in company With Elders Patten & Smoot to Paris. From thence to J. M Gilbert Esq. 
Distance 35 miles. 

Elder Patten informed us that Benton County mob had formed themselves into an independant 
company to beat & Kill the Elders of Latter Day Saints if they Came into that county. Will not 
God be avenged upon such a nation as this? O, God save thy Saints while Babylon falls beneath 
thine ire. 

13 Held a meeting at Gouldsbys meeting house Weakly County Tenn. Elder Patten Preached. I 
followed him. Rode from meeting to Mr John Greens. 6 miles. 

14 Sunday Preached at the meeting house. Elder Patten Preached two discourses upon the last 
dispensation & gathering from Ephe 1st 10. After Preaching a Contribution was asked for me to 
assist me in paying Br West for his Mare which Died in my care. The People gave me $8.56 cts. 
We then Rode to Esq Gilberts. Elder Patten Preached to the people after Which We parted with 
Elder Patten & rode to R Gilberts & spent the night. Distance 6 miles. 

15 Rode <with Elder Smoot> to Mr Summers. Distance 3 miles. 

16 Preached at Goulbys meeting house & Elder Smoot Baptized one Mrs Summers. <Distance of 
the day> 6 miles. 

17 Rode to Br Murphy's 2 miles North of Dresden Weakly County Tenn. Distance of the day 16 
miles. 

Aug 18 Spent the day at Br Murphys Writing. 

19 Left Br Murphys horse with him. Walked to Mr Alexander's. Distance of the day 4 miles. 

20 I sat under the Preaching of Elder Patten at Mr Alexanders. After meeting Mr Alexander & his 
wife came forward for Baptism which was administered unto them by Elder Patten. After 
Baptism I took the parting hand with Elder Patten & returned to Brother Alexander. 4 miles. 

2 1 Sunday Preached at Br Alexanders from Jer 3 1 :22. 

22 Walked to Boydsville. From thence I lost my way But arived in the night at Br Clapps vary 


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weary & thankful to find a shelter. Distance 22 miles. 

23 Preached at Br Braidys. Brothers Smoot, Benton & Clapp followed me. The spirit of God 
rested upon us. Br Benton informed us that Elder Patten had receievd a Letter from Zion under 
the hand of Elder Marsh bringing the inteligence that the Saints were about to leave Clay County 
& Colonize by themselves in consequence of a mob that was arising against them & Also that 
Elder Marsh was about to visit us. Probably be at our Conference. Distance 4 miles. 

24 Travled to Br Tailors Whare I found Br Cathcart who had a Letter for me. On perusing it I 
found it was from my Parents. I was rejoiced to hear from them. The Letter infonned me about 
many friends that ware enjoying good health. Distance 20. 

25 Wrote two Letters one to My Parents in Conn. & the other to Joseph Hart an uncle in 
Springfield Massachusetts. 


26 Spent the day in writing at Br Taylors. 

27 Rode to John Lreemans & returned to Br Taylors. 9 mi. 

28 Sunday Rode to Thomas Lraziers. Preached at his house. A mob arose but left without much 
disturbance. Went to Br Taylors. 20 miles. 

Aug 29 Walked to Br Smiths & was in Company with Elders Smoot & Cathcart at night. We 
Were unexpectedly called upon to go to Joseph Chumbley to have an interview with President 
Thomas B Marsh Who Came in Company with Councellor Groves by order of the High Council 
of Zion to visit the Church in the South to Borrow monies to purchase lands in Zion. We had a 
Spiritual interview then returned to Br Tailors for the night. 4 miles. 

30 Visited the Academy Branch of Church. Spent the night at Brother Davis'es. Distance of the 
day 14 miles. 

3 1st Travled with Elders to Paris & returned to Br Taylors on Bloody whare I found Presidents 
Marsh & Patten. Had a happy interview with them. Distance 30 miles. 

September 

Sept 1st Travled With Elders Cathcart & Boydstun to Br Camp’s Taropen KY. Distance 22 miles. 

2 Rode in Company with the Saints to attend the conference at Br Henry Thomas’s Damonds 
Creek Calaway Co KY on friday Sept 2nd 1836. Distance 12 miles. 


A true Copy of the procedings of the Tennessee Conference at their meeting on Damonds Creek 
Calloway County KY. Sept 2nd 1836. 


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Minutes of the procedings of the general Conference of Tennessee held on Damonds Creek 
Calaway County Kentucky Sept 2nd 1836: 

Elders Present: President Thomas B Marsh, President David W. Patten, Councellor Elisha H. 
Groves, Elders W. Woodruff A. O. Smoot, D. Cathcart, & Benj. Boydstun. 

President Marsh was duly Called to the Chair. R Alexander was Chosen Clerk. The Conference 
was opened by singing & Prayer after which the Priests were called upon to represent their 
respective Branches. 

Priest Daniel Thomas represents the Damond's Creek Branch who Arose & stated that one by the 
name of Henry Thomas had been added since the last Conference. None expeld. This branch is 
strong in faith & grows in grace. 

Priest Clapp represents the Taropen Branch & stated that one by the name of Lewis Allen had 
been added since the last Conference. None expeled. This branch growing in grace with their 
faces set Zion Ward. 

Elder A. O. Smoot represents the Blood River Branch in good standing strong in faith & growing 
in grace. 

President Patten represents the sulpher well Academy Branch in good standing. Two been added 
since last Conference Lewis & Robert Copeland & one been Expeled from the above named 
Church by the name of Emily Dyer. Also represented three members near Wyetts Mills in good 
standing. Also the Chalk level branch in good standing growing in grace & truth & numbers the 
same as at the last Conference & the Eagle Creek branch in good standing numbering the same as 
at the last Conference. Cyprus Branch in a more thriving Condition than heretofore numbering 
the same as at the last Conference. Also 4 others members in good standing Scattered abroad. 
Also three in Henderson County near the Sulpher Springs Baptized since the last Conference 
Baptized under the hands of Elder Cathcart. 

Elder Woodruff represented six member in good standing in Thompson's Creek branch in 
Weakly County Tenn. Who were baptized since the last Conference under the hands of Elders 
Patten Woodruff & Smoot. 

The Conference then took into considerations the Propriety of Calling on the Presidency of the 
Seventies by Letter or otherwise for ministers of the gospel from their quorums to fill the 
vacances for preaching in this regions of Country. Wharefore it was motioned & seconded & 
carried that Presidents Marsh & Patten write to the said Presidents for six faithful labourers to be 
sent from their quorums into this part of the Country. 

And further resolved that Whareas Elders Woodruff & others are about to leave this region of 


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country for Kirtland & Zion President Marsh & Patten Write also to the Presidency of the High 
Priesthood at Kirtland requesting them to send fourth to this region of country an High Priest of 
their quorum to Watch over this Church. 

Be it further resolved Sd. Marsh & Patten Prepare & send a Petition to the Editor & Proprietor of 
the Saints Messenger and Advocate requesting him to publish in addition to the Messenger a 
monthly periodical large enough to contain all the interesting or edifying Letters from the Elders 
abroad when Conference adjourned to 10 oclock next Day. 

Sept 3rd Conference met according to ajoumment. Opened by prayer & singing. The Case of 
Lucinda Benton was presented who was found to have been illegally cut off. Wharefore She was 
restored in full fellowship untill she could get a fair trial. 

A short address was deliverd from the Chair on the necessity of the Tennessee Conference 
keeping a church record of all the names belonging to the several Branches of said Conference 
And also the necessity of each branch sending a Priest to represent their branch & to bear the 
names before the general Conference of all who have been added since the last conference & any 
that may have been blotted out. 

Further resolved by the conference that the Church Purchase Books to Keep a general record of 
the Church, Also that Brother Johnston F Lane be chosen & appointed Clerk & ordained to the 
office of an Elder to Keep the general Church record of the Tennessee Conference. Accordingly 
Johnston F Lane was ordained to the Office of an Elder. Also Benjamin Clapp & Randolph 
Alexander ware each ordained to the office of an Elder. 

The above were ordained under the hands of President D. W. Patten. Also Br Linzy Braidy was 
ordained under the hands of Priest Benton to the office of a Deacon. Conference adjourned untill 
2 PM. 

Then met according to adjournment. Opened by singing & Prayer after Which a sennon was 
deliverd by Counsellor Groves & followed by President Marsh & then adjourned untill 10 oclock 
next morning. Met 

Sept 4th. Opened by Singing & Prayer & a discours deliverd by President D. W. Patten from 
these words: repent & believe the gospel. Mark 1st 15 after which 5 presented themselves for 
Baptism. The Congregations repaired to the water Whare the ordinance of Baptism was 
administered unto five persons by President Patten. Then the people returned to the house & a 
sermon was deliverd by President Marsh on the gifts & graces of the Church after Which the 
Lords supper was administered & those that were baptized were Confirmed by the laying on of 
hands of Counsellor Groves & this interesting Conference Closed by Singing & Prayer. Johnston 
F Lane Clerk. Thomas B. Marsh, President. 


Elder Grooves & Boydstun heal’d by the laying on of hands. 


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As Elder W. Woodruff is about to leave for Kirtland and has been labouring for the last year & a 
half with the Churches included in the Tennessee Conference & stands in need of clothing & 
money to return to Kirtland President’s Patten & Marsh called a Contribution of the Church & 
congregation in the time of the aforementioned conference to supply Elder Woodruffs 
necessities. The list of the contribution taken down is as follows: Brothers Henry Thomas $5.00 
five dollars Benjamin Clapp $6.00 Simeon Hendricks $10.00 Jefferson Tumbow $2.00 In the 
store Eligah Glasgo 50 cts David Crider 50 cts John Thomas $1.00 William Christmas 25 cts 
Randolph Alexander $5.00 James MCcartney $2 in the store Isaiah Benton 50 cts Henry Loy 
$2.00 in the Store Jourden Hendricks 50 cts Henry Thomas Sen $1.00 Jesse Turpin $5.00, John 
Camp $5.00 Daniel S Thomas $5.00 James Allen $5.00 in the Store, Lewis Clapp $6.00 Lewis 
Allen $5.00 Linzy Braidy $6.00, Rachael Turnbow 25 cts Oliver Drown 75 cts Alfred Loy $2.00 
in the store. 

Making Cash $63.35 

In the Store $13.00 

Total $76.35 

The above list of Contributions is recorded in the Tennessee Conference records J. L. Lane Clerk. 


Sept 5th Took the parting hand With the Presidents & Elders & many Beloved Brethren & 
Sisters about fifty in number With Whom I have sat in Conference for the last three days which 
time was spent in a Cause of the greatest interest. Wrote a Letter to Br Samuel West & then rode 
to Waidsborough with H Thomas & purchased a coat pattern. Then returned to Br Thomas's. 
Distance of the day 14 miles. 

A true copy of a Bill from President Thomas B Marsh And Counsellor Elisha H Groves: 


Receieved Sept 5th AD 1836 of Willford Woodruff fifty Dollars for the purpose of entering land 
Within the State of Missouri. 


Thomas B. Marsh 
Elisha H Groves 


Sept 6th Spent the Day at Brother Thomas'es in Writing. In the evening I rode in company with 
Elder Benjamin Clapp on the road to Paducah to visit sister Benton & cite her to trial to answer 
to a charge prefered against her by Elder J. F. Lane for unchristian conduct. 

Rode to Parson Baity's a Preacher of the Christian order. He receieved us in warm friendship as 
deciples of Christ. Elder Clapp & myself retired aside from the abodes of men & prayed unto 


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God to Bless Parson Beaty & his houshold & we covenanted together not to leave his house 
untill he would become a Latter Day Saint. We returned to the house Preached the gospel to him 
& he receieved it with gladness. Distance of the day 14 miles. 

7th Arose in the morning & Baptized Parson Beaty. Went our way. Left him rejoicing. Rode to 
Br Bentons in Paducah. Elder Clapp made me a present of a fine Penknife. Distance 22 miles. 

8th Rode in Company with Elder Clapp, Br & Sister Benton from Paducah to Br Beaty's. 
Preached at his house at night <and the Spirit of God was with us>. Distance 22 mile. 

9th Left Br Beatys on foot & we travled in the rain to Br Henry Thomas'es on Damonds Creek. 
Dined with Br Thomas. From thence we travled to Br John Camps on Taropen. Arived at his 
house at dark after travling in Company with Elder Clapp on foot through a rainy day & wadeing 
through creeks & swamps. Br & Sister Benton accompanied us on horsback but we all arived 
weary & wet. Distance <of the day> 25 miles. 

10 Arose in the morning sumwhat ill in consequence of the hard [sh?]ower we endured the day 
previous. Rode to Elder J. F. Lane to attend the counsel of Elders to take into consideration the 
case of Sister Bentons. The following is the procedings of the Court: 


Calaway County KY. Sept 10th 1836 

Minutes of a Counsel of Elders held at the house of Elder J. F. Lane. The Court Consisted of four 
Elders to it. W. Woodruff was called to the Chair & Conference opened by reading the Law of 
the Church Contained in the Book of Covenants & Prayer by the President. The Court was 
appointed for the trial of Sister Lucinda Benton who had been Cut off illegally. 

The Charge was Prefered against her by Elder Lane for unchristian conduct after which Brother 
Jefferson Tumbow was called upon Who arose and stated that he had seen Sister Benton and 
some man lying upon a pallet together after which Sister Margaret Atkinson arose & stated that 
Sister Benton had made some fals & hard statements about her. 

Sister Matilda Lane bore testimony to the truth of what Sister Akinson had stated & further said 
that [she] could not be reconciled to Sister Benton unless she repented & confessed her sins. 

Sister Benton Was permitted to speak for herself Which she did do and confessed & repented of 
her sins when she was again receieved into the church in full fellowship by the voice of the court 
/& church./ 

J. F Lane Clerk W. Woodruff Chainnan 


Sept. 1 1th Sunday Rode to Br Camps. Preached at his house & communed with the Saints. Spent 


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the night at Clapps. 4 m. 

12 Walked to Br Lanes & spent the day in writing. 4. 

13 Spent the day at Br Lanes in writing. 

14th Spent the day at Br Lanes in writings. Felt some unwell <in consequence of an uncommon 
fall [or place?]>. In the evening walked to Brother Camps. Was quite lame at night. <Distance 5 
miles. > 

15th Spent the day at Br Camps. 

16th Spent the day at Br Drowns. 

17th Returned to Br Camps on Saturday & soon I had the happy Privilege of another interview 
with Presidents Marsh, Patten & Grooves & Sister Patten who came to Br Camps in a two horse 
waggon & bound for Zion Missouri. We all tarried at Camps. 

18th Sunday We all met at Br Henry Loys for a meeting & we had a happy time. Presidents 
Marsh & Patten Preached & Exertations from Elders Grooves, Boydstun, Smoot, Cathcart, 

Clapp & I requested the Elders to lay hands upon me for sickness & lameness which they did do 
& I was healed of both. Spent the night at Brother Camps with the Brethren. 

19th Is a day long to Be remembered by me & others in Consequence of the interesting scenes 
transpired with the Saints of God in the South. Isaiah & others of the Ancient Prophets testify to 
us of the great events of the last days esspecially of the literal gathering of Israel. They say the 
Saints Shall gather from the East & from the West & that the North shall give up & the South 
Keep not back. This interesting day had now arived. Yea the 19th of Sept 1836 When some of 
the Saints of God in the South began to take their families their Charriots Waggons their Oxen, 
their Horses their Tents their armour & moove towards Zion as the Children of Israel according 
to the Command of God As follows: 

Arose in the morning at Br Camps & breakfasted at his house after which we repaired to the bank 
of a stream whare Prayers were offer’d up unto God When President Marsh led a young man into 
the waters of Baptism & he was confirmed upon the bank of the stream under the hands of 
Presidents Marsh Patten & Grooves. Then we all stood upon our feet & receieved great Blessings 
Confirmed upon our heads with uplifted hands of the three above named Brethren President 
Marsh being speaker. 

We then all took the parting hand with these Beloved servents of God & with Sister Patten also. 
These four friends took their seat in a waggon & set their faces as a flint towards Zion not 
Waiting for those that on the same day ware to follow their example but with Ox teams. 

Soon after the above named brethren left us Br Albert Petty came to us from Cyprus branch with 
his waggon & family to join those of the Taropen Branch who ware going to Zion. After 


Page7 1 




spending a short time in aranging the waggons & teems the company were prepared to move 
forward. The Company Consisted of four families with three Elders as follows: Lewis Clapp & 
his family, John Camp & his family, Albert Petty & his family & Elder Benjamin Clapp & his 
family, Also Elders Boydstun & Cathcart. This company chose Elder Benjamin Boydstun as their 
leader on the road to Zion. This company of the South were principly the first fruits of my 
ministry. Some were Baptized by Elder Parrish. They numbered six male members & five female 
& 10 children & one servant making 22 in all. This company of faithful Saints after taking the 
parting hand with their friends on Taropen moved forward on their journey in good spirits & with 
joy- 

<On the return of Sister M. [Fawker she?] decided to return back thinking it after all too great to 
leave her friends. I immediately set before her the danger of returning to Babylon and encouraged 
her and she became consoled and continued her journey. > I rode with them this first days travel 
as far as the South fork of Mayfield whare we all camped for the night. 

After pitching our tents & taking supper I assembled this small Camp of Israel together at Br 
Albert Pettys tent to address them for the last time & after they were assembled I arose to address 
them & although the rain desended in torrents so that we were wet through a good tent yet my 
soul was vibrated & fired with emotions & feeling of no ordinary nature. I endeavor’d to lay 
before them the worth & value of the cause they were ingaged in & that they were the first in 
fullfiling the Prophets who spake of the South keeping not back & that it would be recorded upon 
the Archives of heaven to be read in the day of eternity that they were the first fruits of the South 
who had spread their tents for Zion. I also instructed them about travling by the way. They all 
covenanted to give heed to Elder Boydstuns precepts as they had chosen him as their leader. 

When I closed I was followed By Elders Boydstun Cathcart & Clapp who spake in the Spirit of 
God & with feeling of the deepest interest When this edifying interview Closed by our kneeling 
& I addressed a throne of grace & implored the mercy of God to rest upon the Camp that they 
might all reach Zion in Peace. Distance of the day 8 miles. 


Sept. 20th Arose & found all well in the camp notwithstanding the severity of the weather 
through the night. I Breakfased at Br Pettys tent & then took the last parting hand with those 
Beloved Saints untill I meet them in Zion or elswhare. (May the blessings of God attend them 
forever.) 

I then rode to Mr Calverts on the bank or ford of Brush Creek Graves County KY. & spent the 
night. Distance 20 miles. 

21st Spent the day in visiting the Neighbourhood & the night at Mr Johnstons. Distance 6 miles. 

Sept 22 Preached at Mr Fraziers at the ford of brush creek. Got one subscriber for M & Ad. Was 
some opposed by a Pryspeterian Priest & wrote a letter for sister Bishop. 


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23 Rode to Feliciana. From thence took the Dresden road & with difficulty crossed the Obine 
swamp & creek my horse frequently wallowing in the Cyprus slues nearly under water & mud. 
From thence I rode to Br Jere. Murphys weakly County Tenn whare I found the saints well & 
rejoiced to find his houshold well & all the saints. Distance of the day 30 miles. 

24 Rode to Elder R Alexanders. Distance 5 miles. 

25 Preached on Sunday at Br Alexanders & Baptized two persons & then communed with the 
saints. Had an interesting time because of the spirit of God upon us. After meeting we took the 
parting hand with Br Jeremiah B Murphy & his wife who Started on a Journey to visit friends in 
the South. 


26 Spent the Day at Elders Alexanders in writing. Wrote two Letters one to Abel B Willson & 
the other to President O Cowdery at Kirtland. I discontinued the M & Ad that was sent to 25 
Persons in the South Country. I also sent one subscriber. 


27 Was Joined by Elder Smoot. We rode to Br Immanuel Murphy's. Preached at his house. Rode 
15 miles. 

28 Rode to Elder Alexanders. Spent the day at his house. 6 miles. 

29 Elder Smoot returned to Bloody. I rode to William Glasgow's. Preached at his house. Distance 
<of the day> 5 miles. 

30 Rode to Br Immanuel Murphys. <Distance of day> 2 miles. 

October 

Oct 1st Rode to Br Alexander <with Brother Murphy>. 6 miles. 

2 Preached on Sunday at Mr Simpsons Alexander's. 

3 Spent the day at Elder Alexanders. 

4 Rode 2 miles & returned. 2 miles. 

5 Spent the day riding in the barrens after cattle for Alexander. 12. 

Oct 6th Spent the day at Elder Alexanders. 2 miles. 

7th Rode in Company with Elder Alexander & Warren Smith & their families to Paris & Perhaps 
the last time that I shall visit the place. From thence to Mr Jonathan Alexanders. Preached at his 
house at Candle light. Distance 30 m. 


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8th Rode <with Elder Alexander> to Br Taylors. Distance 8 miles. 

9th Sunday Preached at Sister Frazier's. Was followed by Elder Smoot. Then rode to Johnathan 
Alexanders. Preached at his house at Candle light. Distance 18 m. 

10th Baptized two Persons Warren Smith & his wife. Then took the parting hand With Elder 
Alexander & wife & other Saints & friends Sister Margaret Atkinson with the rest & then Rode 
to visit the Sulpher Well Academy branch & Preached a funeral Sennon in the evening at Widow 
Fraziers. Was followed by Br’s Smoot & Turpin. Much of the spirit of God rested upon us. 
Distance 10 miles. 

1 1th Baptized two Persons. Took the parting hand with the Saints & rode to Br Taylors on 
Bloody. Preached for the last time With this branch of Beloved Saints & was followed by Elder 
Smoot Priests Benton & Turpin. Much of the spirit of God rested upon us & we had an 
interesting meeting & communed together. May God protect & save the Saints. Rode to Br 
Smiths. Distance of the day 1 1 miles. 


12th Retired in company with Elder A. O. Smoot unto the banks of Blood River aside from the 
abodes of men to spend some time in Prayer & Praise to God & to Perfonn a solemn duty that is 
rquired of all the Elders of Israel whose testimony is rejected by this generation while they are 
preaching the gospel of Jesus Christ & bearing testimony of his NAME. After we had Cleansed 
our Bodies with Pure water & also with strong drink or spirits this not by Commandment but 
from Choice we then according to Commandment clensed our hands and feet and bore testimony 
unto God against the Benton County mob & also against Paris & many others who had rejected 
our testimony. We enjoyed a solumn, spiritual, & interesting Season. 

We retired from that Water in the spirit of God & spent the night for the last time at Brother Levi 
Taylors & Sister Tailors With the Brethren & Sisters Beneath this roof I have spent some of the 
most interesting seasons of my life for the last two years. Receieved 4 subscribers for the M & 
Ad. 

Oct 13th Took the parting hand with Brother & Sister Taylor & their household & all the Saints 
in Bloody branch & travled in company with Elder Smoot & Priest Turpin to Brother Lanes. This 
is the first days journey for Kirtland Ohio. Distance 18. 

14 Travled to Br Hendricks. Spent the night with Brother Alfred Loy. Distance 3 miles. 

15 Preached at Br Kelleys. 3 miles. 

16 Sunday Preached at Father Greenwoods & Baptized one Mrs Mary Kelly. Then travled to 
Brother Henry Loys. Preached at his house. Distance 6 miles. 

17 Travled to Damond’s Creek Calaway County KY. Spent the night at Br Henry Thomas'es. 


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<Distance> 12 mil. 


18 Spent the day in writing & Preached at Father Thomas'es to the Saints for the last time in that 
place. Had a Spiritual & happy meeting. <1 felt constrained by the spirit of prophecy to inform 
father and mother Thomas that they would stand in sin before the dead.> 

19 Travled with my Colleagues Smoot & Turpin through the rain to Br Beatys Clarks River 
Calaway County KY. Found him & his family well. Distance 15 miles. 

20 Spent the day at Br Beatys in Writing or Copying Journal. 

21 Preached at Br Beatys. 

Oct 22 Preached at Br Beaty & Baptised 1 Mrs Beaty. 

23rd Sunday Preached at Beatys & Baptised 1 his Daughter. Also Ordained Brother James Beaty 
to the Office of a Priest. He had Been a Preacher of the Christian order for several years. 
Communed with the Saints. Had a spiritual time & it was the last meeting that I held in the South 
within the limits of the Tennessee Conference of Latter Day Saints. 

24th Took the parting hand with Priest Beaty & his family & travled with Elder Smoot & Priest 
Turpin to Paducah MCcracken County KY. Spent the night at Brother Bentons. Distans of the 
day 25 miles. 

25th For the first time in life I went aboard a Steam Boat to Journey. I took a birth with my 
Colleagues aboard the AI D at 8 o’clock AM. Names of the Islands we passed through the day are 
as follows: Tennessee, Cumberland, Three Sisters & the Golconda island. Town past: Smithland. 
Distance of the day 100 mile. 

26th The Tempest past the Aid at 7 A.M. While She was Wooding. We past the following 
Islands: Cincinnati toehead, Wabash, Dimonds. Towns: Shawney, Mount Vernon & Ivensville. 
Remained at Ivensville over night abot 20 above the mouth of the Wabash River which we past. 

I purchased a Cloak of William Smith one of the dek hands on board the Aid. I paid him $5.00 
dollars for the same. Paid on board the Aid $2.00 for passage. <Distance> 100 m. 

27th Left the Aid at 7 A.M & went aboard the HAVANA. We past Sprinkelsburg, 

Owensborough Troy, Hayville, Clover Rome & Cast Anchor about 12 oclock at night in 
consequence of the fog. Distance 100 miles. 

28th Raised the steam at Day light but soon run aground but liberated Without Damage. The fog 
Cleared at 8 oclock. We soon past a steam boat that had sunk. She struck a snag stove her hull & 
went Down. We past many Boats through the day. The Havana broak her Wheel against a flat 
Bottom Boat. Passed New Albany at 2 P.M. Entered the Canal at the Ohio falls. Passed through 
three locks. Arived at Louisville at 6 P.M. Paid $2.50 cts passage aboard the Havana, KETON 
Capt. The Havana run about 10 miles Per hour. Distance of the day 100 m. 


Page75 




Their was 12 steamers at anchor at Luisville. Priest Turpin went aboard a bout for Cincinnati & 
Elder Smoot & myself left Luisville to visit his kinsman in Owington that he had not visited 
since he was five years of age. We took the Frankford turnpike rode walked 4 miles and put up at 
a tavern for the night. Distance 4 miles. 

29 Walked to Middletown. From thence to Boston to Simpsonville & Shelbyville. Spent the 
night in Shelbyville at Mr Staples Inn. Distance 30 miles. 

30 Sunday Walked from Shelbyville to Mr Clemmens ferry on the Kentucky river 25 miles 
below Fra nk ford. Crossed at the ferry to Mr William Rowletts. Spent the night at his house. He is 
an uncle of Elder Smoots. Distance of the day 30 miles. 

3 1st Walked to Widow Elizabeth Smoots Elder Smoots Sister in law. It was an affecting meeting 
between them as it was the first time they ever met. From thence to Col Joseph Rowletts another 
kinn of Elder Smoots. It was a happy meeting & we met a welcome reception. Distance 4 m. 

November 

Nov 1st Spent the Day in writing at Col Rowletts. 

2 Spent 3 days at Col Rowletts in Copying my Journal i.e. 2 3 & 4th. I had a number of 
interviews within the time with Mr William Clements A Revolutionary Soldier Aged 83 years. 

5 Spent the day at Col Rowletts in perusing a Book bearing the title PRINCIPLES OF NATURE 
BY {ELIHU PALMER} 1806 third edition, on Deism. See Page 100. 1 preached at Col Rowletts 
at Candle light. 

NOV 6th Sunday Rode to William Smoots. Preached at his house. Distance of the Day 7 miles. 

7th Sold one Book of Mormon & Rode to Owenton Owen County KY on the day of the election 
to vote for President &c. At first the Judges endeavoured to deprive Elder Smoot & myself from 
voting but after employing Some Judges & Col Rowlett in our favor we gave our vote for Mr 
Martin Vanburen for President & Col R. M. Johnson for Vice President. We then returned to Mr 
Reed Smoot <and spent the night>. 16 m. 

8th Walked to Col Rowletts. Spent the day <writing>. 2. 

9th Walked to Mr Gustavus A. Clements & Preached at his house. Distance 5 miles. 

10th Rode to Mr Jacob Rasors. Preached at his house. Distance 6 miles. 

1 1th Rode to Col. Rowletts & Preached at his house. 3. 

12th Spent the day at Col Rowletts. 

13th Preached at Col Rowletts on Sunday & Procured 2 subscribers for M & Ad. 


Page76 




14th Rode to Owington & Preached in the court house at night to a large congregation. Spent the 
night at the inn of William Browns. 6 mile. 

15th Took the Parting hand with Col Rowlett & walked to ESq Hues 5 miles South of the big 
bone lick. Distance 25 miles. 

16th Visited the big bone lick in Boone County KY. which is the Place Whare those large bones 
of enormous size were dug from the earth & have been exhibited in many Parts of America & 
Europe. It is conjectured that those animals while in the lick got mired & Perished. It is said or 
judged from the measurment of those bones that the animal was 36 feet in length & 15 in highth. 
No record yet gives us an account of those animals. Will not some record of the Nephites yet tell 
us? 

Spent the night with Mr Sandford. <Distance> 25 miles. 

Nov 17th Went to Covington. Crossed the Ohio River into Cincinnati. Visited the City & saw 
Conway & Webster who informed me that Brother Asahel H Woodruff had located himself in 
Terre haute Indiania & traiding in Books in Company with Robert Smith. I Also saw the Dead & 
wounded Carried from off the Steem Boat FLORA. 3 dead & 10 scalded by the bursting of her 
pipes. Spent the night at Cincinnati on board the Robert Emmet. Distance of the day 6 miles. 

1 8 Left Cincinnati on board the Robert Emmett & travled during the day & night to Portsmouth. 
118 m. 

19 In the morning I saw a large Buck swiming down the River. Three men Left the Emmet in a 
yawl & Persued the deer. They soon overtook him grappled him by the horns, nocked him on the 
head with their oars then cut his throat & brought him on board the steem boat & cut off his head 
& stuck it upon the liberty pole with his horns spread for a guide to the Pilot. 

The Steem Boat travled during this day & night to Parkersburg 162 miles. Paid Passage on Board 
the Emmet $3.50 cts. 

20 Sunday Proceded up the River Past Homrily & stop’d at Wheeling in Virginia. It was the first 
time that I ever was in the state. From thence to Wellsville. Distance of the day 137 miles. 

21 In the morning I had a happy interview with Priest Turpin in Wellsville. Spent the Day at 
Elder Samuel Burwells Columbiania County Ohio. 

22 Spent the day at Elder Burw[ell] in Wellsville. In the evening Elder Burwell returned home 

<and he [ ]>. 

23 We took the Stage at wellsville. Paid $4.00 dollars fare to Chardon. We travled to Nutons 
falls & spent the night at the Stage office. <Distance> 47 miles. 

24 Travled to Chardon & Providentially met with Elder Henry Sherwood on his way to Tenn. We 


Page77 




had a happy interview with him. I wrote a Letter to the Saints. <Distance> 33 miles. 

NOV 25th Took the parting hand with Elder Sherwood. I then set out in company with Elder 
Smoot on foot in a hard snowstonn for Kirtland. We Came in Sight of the Temple of the Lord 
before we reached the village & I truly felt to rejoice at the Sight as it was the first time that mine 
eyes ever beheld the house of the Lord built by Commandment & Revelation. 

We soon entered the village & I spent one of the happiest days of my life at this time in visiting 
Kirtland & the House of the Lord & the Presidents & Elders of the Church. I was truly edified to 
again strike hands with President Joseph Smith Jr. & many other beloved saints of God who are 
rolling on the mighty work of God & of Israel after being seperated from them for 2 1/2 years & 
amoung the rest I was filled with joy with the priviledg of again meeting with Elder Warren 
Parrish & also being made acquainted with his Companion Sister Parrish. There is an enjoyment 
in meeting our brethren & companions in tribulation that the world Knows not off because it 
flows from a Celestial Source. 

After Spending a short time in Conversing With my friends A more important scene was now to 
open to my view than Kings ever saw or Princes ever Knew in this generation Which was to visit 
the Temple of the Lord & its contents. Elder Smoot & myself visited each appartment of the 
House accompanied by Elder Parrish & I must confess the scenery is indisscribable. When I 
entered the threshhold of the house & Passed into the lower room their was great Solemnity if not 
Awe immediately overwhelmed me. I felt indeed as if my footsteps were in the Temple of the 
Lord. 

After walking into the Pulpets, erected for the Priesthoods & viewing the curtains all bespeaking 
that grandure, solemnity & order that nothing Short of wisdom from God could invent, we then 
visited the upper rooms & there viewed four Egyptian Mumies & also the Book of Abram 
Written by his own hand & not ownly the hieroglyphicks but also many figures that this precious 
treasure Contains are Calculated to make a lasting impression upon the mind which is not to be 
erased. Many other important views I was Privileged with in the upper story the school rooms, 
belfry &c. all indicating great Architecture & wisdom. 

We then spent some time in visiting the Bank & Printing office. 

But wonder on wonder strikes my sense to look into the Casket of the great work of Israels God 
in these last Days as the Prophet exclaims he does things we looked not for. Two & a half years 
since I left Kirtland with my Brethren in their Poverty to go fourth to visit our brethren in 
tribulation in Zion. Then our Brethren in Kirtland were poor, despised, & even looked upon By 
the pomp of Babylon with Disdain & disgrace who stood waiting with eager eyes to behold them 
sink into forgetfulness. 

But how Changed the scene now I behold a cheerfulness beaming upon every countenance that 
indicates Prosperity & the noise of the ax & the hammer & the sight of their walls & dwellings 
newly erected & their Bank & market & esspecially house of God speaks in language loud as 


Page78 




thunder that the saints will have a city in prosperity in spite of all the fals Prophets of Baal or 
even earth or hell because God is with them & his Temple stands in honor of his Kingdom while 
babylon begins to wonder & will soon perish. 

We spent the day with Elder Parrish. <Distance> 9 miles. 


The money I expended in my travels from Paducah KY to Kirtland Ohio: fees aboard Steam 
Boats & stages, board lodgings &c was $16.65. Also I Paid $5.00 for a cloak making $21.65 in 
all. 


NOV 26th I visited President & Doct Cowdery at the Printing office & made a general settlement 
with them for the M & Advocate for the Subscribers of the South. I gave 9 new Subscribers to 
them & Paid them $41.50 for the M. & Advocate which Setteled all matters between us. I 
receieved some Counsel from Presidents Smith & Rigdon. To Elder Parrishe's house & spent the 
day in writing. 


NOV 27th Upon this Lords day Elder Smoot & myself accompanied Elder Parrish to the house of 
the Lord for the first time to behold the Congregation of the Saints assembled Within its Walls 
for the Purpose of worshiping God. It was truly an interesting scene. It brought a lengthy 
Catalogue of transactions Contemplations & experience of my youth to my mind & the 
experiance of this day fulfilled many things of a spiritual nature which I had looked [for] for a 
number of years which I viewed as Promises of God. 

After I entered the house & was seated I cast my eyes upon the Pulpits aranged in order for the 
High Priest. I beheld the Patriarch Joseph Smith sen. Standing in the upper Pulpet, & President 
Joseph Smith, jr. & Elder Carter in the Second one & in the third Elders Parley & Orson Pratt & 
W Parrish was seated. Soon Elder Carter arose & opened meeting by Prayer & then Preched the 
gospel unto us & was followed by President Joseph Smith, jr. when meeting was dissmissed & 
after an intennishion of an hour we again met in the house of the Lord & I was called into the 
stand in company with Elder Smoot & requested to Preach to the People. I opened by Prayer & 
read the LVI Chapter of Isaiah & made some brief remarks upon the same & gave a sketch of my 
travels in the South. I was then followed by Elder Smoot. After he closed I was blessed with the 
priviledge of communing with a multitude of Saints in the house of the Lord assembled together 
from the east, west, north & South many with whom I had been intimately acquainted. 

I truly felt to thank God that his promises had been verifyed unto me by giving me a seat & a 
name within his house & within his walls <[-]> as of Sons & of daughters. 

Their was four Confirmed after the sacrament under the hands of Elder O Hide. President J 


Page79 



Smith addressed the congragation & the meeting Closed. Spent the night with Elder W. Parrish. 
NOV 28th Spent the day in Kirtland visiting friends & the night with Elder W. Parrish. 


29 Spent the day in writing. Wrote two Letters one to my Parents & the other to Brother Asahel 
Woodruff. 


30 I Setteled With Elder Reynolds Cahoon for the subscriptions put into my hands by the Saints 
of the South Country for the building of the house of the Lord in Kirtland Ohio. I Paid him one 
dollar which was all the back money that was due. This made $91.75 cts that I had the Charge of 
that I forwarded for the house. 

I also [-] Purchase a Latten grammer of Elder P. Pratt for $[-]. I am now expecting to enter upon 
a course of study. May the Lord open my way in temporal & spiritual things that I may be usful 
in my day & generation have a good warfare keep the faith & receieve a Crown of Glory. 

December 

Dec 1st Repaired to the house of the Lord whare Father Smith met a number of Saints to 
Pronounce upon them a Patriarchal Blessing. This was the first meeting of the kind that I ever 
attended & I found it to be highly edefying & interesting as their was great & glorious things 
pronounced upon their heads by the spirit of Prophesy & Revelation. 

Spent the evening at Elder Parrishes acompanied by Brother Joseph Smith which was an 
interesting interview. 

Dec 2nd I Wrote a Letter to Br Azmon Woodruff it being the first Communication between us 
for two years. I also Wrote a Letter to Col Joseph Rowlett at Owengton Owen County KY. 


3rd Traded with Brother Bump in Goods $12.89. 

4th Sunday I went up to the house of the Lord to worship. Elder Parish Preached in the forepart 
of the day. Several spoke in the Latter Part of the day. President RIGDON called a vote of the 
Church to discountenance the use intirely of all liquors from the Church in Sickness & in health 
except wine at the Sacraments & for external Washing. The vote was Carried eunanimously. I 
spent the night with Elder Parrish. 

5th This monday morning in company with Elder Smoot I entered the School & Commenced 
Studying the Latten Grammer under the instruction of Professor Haws. I commenced boarding 
also this morning with Brother Bond at $2 dollars Per week. I Paid him $10 dollars in advance. 


Page80 



6, 7, 8, 9, 101 spent in school. In the evening of the 101 wrote two Letters one to Elder 
Alexander & the other to Sister M Atkinson both in Tenn. 


1 1th Sunday morning After an interview with Priest Turpin I went up to the house of God to 
worship & O what a meeting. May it be Printed upon my heart as a memorial forever. For on this 
day the God of Israel Sharply reproved this stake of Zion (Kirtland) through the Prophets & 
Apostles for all our sins & backslidings & also a timely warning that we may escape the 
Judgments of God that otherwise will fall upon us. Even the case of the travels of the Camp of 
the Saints from Kirtland to Zion in 1834 Was Presented to us for an example. <God set the law 
in judgment on Kirtland [ — ] remember this warning [-] judgment must [-] the law [-] God save 
many for Christ's sake.> 

18 Sunday I went up to the house of the Lord to worship. Sermon delivered by Elder William 
Smith. Elder Joseph Young administered the Sacrament. President Joseph Smith jr. Solumnized 
the rights of matrimony At candle light I Preached at Mr Daytons & was followed by Elder 
Smooth & Nobles. 

19, 20 Was spent in School. I commenced studying the GREEK GRAMMER on Monday the 
19th Dec 1836. 

20 At Candle light I repaired to the house of the Lord for a meeting with the quorum of the 
Seventies. The third Seventies had been chosen & the business of this meeting was to organize 
them & ordain them. But as they were not all present they were not all ordained or organized. 
Their was 27 twenty Seven of the third Seventy ordained to the High Priesthood & as members 
of the third Seventy. Elder Abram O. Smoot was among the number ordained to the third Seventy 
Which fulfilled what I Pronounced upon his head by the testimony of JESUS on the 30th of June 
while in Tenn. See June 30th 1836. The above mentioned were ordained under the hands of 
Presidents Aldrich, Young, & Coltrin. 

We had an interesting meeting. Much of the spirit of Prophecy was poured out upon those 
Presidents while ordaining the third seventy. They Proclaimed great & marvelous things upon 
their heads. President Young had visions while Performing this ordinance. 


22 I attended Prayer meeting in the house of the Lord at night. 

24 Spent the Past week in school. 

25 Sunday Went up to the house of God to worship & herd a discours from Brother Samuel 
Smith. Brother Hiram Smith broak bread which closed the meeting. Elder Smoot was quite sick 


Page8 1 






& healed by the laying on of hands. 

Dec 27th Met at the house of the Lord at Candle light with the quorum of the Seventies. Their 
was about one hundred Elders of Israel Presant of 1, 2, & 3rd Seventy. It is expected the 
Seventies will meet every tuesday evening through the winter for the Purpose of worshiping God 
& sanctifying themselves before him. Elder Smoot was again taken [sick?]. 

28, 29, 30 & 3 1st Was Principly spent in taking Care of Elder Smoot who was confined to his 
bed with the scarlot fever at the house of Brother Bonds in Kirtland. On the 3 1st of DEC being 
the last Day of 1836 I aranged the account of my Journals & recorded the same in the following 
manner. Thus ends the year of 1836 which hath quickly passed with its report into ETERNITY. 


1st I Travled six thousand five hundred & fifty seven Miles. 6,557 


2nd I Held one hundred & fifty three Meetings. 153 

I Attended four Conferences. 4 

& Held four debates. 4 


/I Planted one Branch of the Church./ 

3rd I Baptized twenty seven Persons. 27 


/I Confinned 27/ 

4th I ordained two Elders, three Priests, one Teacher, 

& two Deacons. 8 


/I esstablished 2 preaching places./ 

5th I Attended to the ordinance of blessing nineteen 
Children. 


19 


6th Their was four Persons healed of deseases under 
my hands. 4 


7th I Procured twenty two subscribers for 


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the M & Ad. 

I Also Procured Seventy Dollars for the M & Ad. 


22 

$70 


8th I Gave six dollars & Procured eighty five more 

for the building of the house of the Lord in Kirtland. $91 


9th I wrote thirty four Letters 34 

& Receieved Seven Letters. 7 


10th I had three mobs Come together against me 

But always as yet deliverd from their hands. 3 


{ ========================= 

The before mentioned is an account of the most Conspicuous Part of my Procedings during the 
year of 1836 which has gone into eternity with its report as the year before it hath done & as the 
one following & all others must do. O time how swift & how precious thou art. How great the 
events that are bourn upon thy wings, esspecially in the dispensation of the fullness of times. 

1836 is gone. It cannot be recalled. Europe hath began to tremble at thy departure. The 
endowment of the Latter Day Saints hath bspake a God in Israel, & is sufficient to show that 
though the heavens & earth pass away the word of God spake through the Prophets must all be 
fulfilled. 

It is true that the thoughts of man may now retrace his footsteps through 1836 that is Past. But 
who can tell whare the end of 1837 will leave him? Yea that important year that is mounting the 
wheels of time to stand upon the stage of exhistance, to do its Perfect work. Will not its gigantic 
operations, & its magnus works stand upon the Archieves of heaven as great events? Will this 
gentile generation still sleep in this late hour? If so sleep on & take thy rest which is short for thy 
end is come, & the day hath broke that Israel must be awoke from his slumber for the last time & 
Prepare himself for the Bridgeroom. 

Then let 1837 finish its work with speed & let its departure say who hath gone to the tomb & 
what Kingdom overturned, & what Kingdom esstablished & may God grant that 1837 may report 
as she departs that Zion & her Stakes indicates that God rules in her midst with POWER 
STRENGTH & GLORY. 


} 


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Thus ends the year of 
1836 


The Third Book of Willford for 1837 

{========================= 

O Lord I ask thee in the name of Jesus Christ thy Son, to look upon thy servant Willford, Who 
now occupies a place in Kirtland, this first stake of Zion, which thou has appointed in this last 
Dispensation, & fulness of times for the gathering of thy Saints. O God of Israel, inspire the heart 
& pen of thy Servant at this time & hear & answer the Petition which he will put up unto thee at 
this time, & remember the Covenant which thy servant Willford will make with thee at this time, 
O mighty God of Jacob. 

O Lord thou hast spared my life, to behold the Commencement of 1837. May my life, health, & 
strength be precious in thy Sight, through the year. Wilt thou save me by thy grace from all sin, & 
the Powers of temptation, which try the souls of men. Wilt thou give me favor during this year 
with God & the Saints. Wilt thou bless me while in School, & in meeting with the quorum of the 
Seventies, & while attending all other meetings in Kirtland for Divine worship. 

0 Lord if it be thy will, give me the privilege of recording in this years Journal great blessing, 
Pronounced upon my head from mine annointing & from under the hands of the Patriarch 
JOSEPH, & an account of Great visions, & the opening of the heavens, & the revelation of 
JESUS CHRIST unto me, that I may be a special witness of Thee, O Lord, & may I also have the 
administering of Holy angels, that I may be tought of the Eternal things of the Priesthood. 

If I am Called to Preach thy word this year, may I be bless with souls for my hire. If I visit my 
Kinsman, wilt thou make me an instrument, of bringing them into thy Celestial Kingdom, & I 
Covenant with Thee, Heavenly FATHER, to go & come at thy bidding. 

1 ask the above blessings, through the Priesthood, in the name of JESUS CHRIST, AMEN. 

=========================} 


January 

Jan. 1st 1837 In the morning of this Lords Day I repar'd to the house of the Lord for worship. We 
herd two discourses deliver’d from the Aaronic Stand by Bishop Whitney & Counsellor Cahoon. 
They also Broke bread. The latter part of the day was spent in attending to the funeral servises of 
a child. 

2nd Spent the Day in school Also the 3rd. I receieved a letter from Brother Asahel Woodruff on 
the 3rd. 


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Jan 3rd At early Candle light I repaired to the house of the Lord in company with Elder Milton 
Holmes for the purpose of meeting with the quorum of the Seventies. President Aldrich opened 
the meeting by prayer & after a few appropriate remarks from President Coltrin about twenty of 
the third Seventy was ordained to the high Priesthood & as members of the third Seventy under 
the hands of the above named Presidents. 

After these were ordained Elder M. Holms & myself was called upon by the Presidents to Come 
for ward to be ordained as members of the first Seventy Elders of Israel to bear the name Jesus to 
the nations of the Earth. The first Seventy was Chosen out of the CAMP that Went up to Zion for 
the redemption of it & the Saints in the Spring of 1834. But as we were not present when the first 
Seventy was Chosen we was afterwards Chosen in the Second quorum. (See May 3 1th 1836 in 
this Journal.) But there being two vacancies in the first quorum we were Chosen to fill them. 

President Aldrich ordained Elder Holmes to this appointment & Pronounced great blessings upon 
his head. 

President Z. Coltrin ordained me as a member of the first Seventy & Pronounced great blessings 
upon my head by the Spirit of Prophecy & Revelation. Some of them I will mention which are as 
follows: THAT my enemies may Confine me in Prisions & Chains & that I would rend the 
Prisions & Chains in twain in the name of JESUS CHRIST & that the Lord would give me great 
Power, Knowledg, & wisdom & faith so that I should heal the sick caus the Blind to see the lame 
to leap as an heart, the Deaf to hear Stop the mouths of Lions & rase the dead to life & waft 
myself (as did Philip) from River to river from Sea to sea & from Continant to Continant for the 
Purpose of Preaching the gospel of Jesus Christ & that I should stand before Kings & Princes & 
that they would send for me to receieve Wisdom Knowledge & instruction at my mouth because 
they Considered me wiser than themselves in like manner as the Egyptians sought wisdom at the 
hand of JOSEPH. And that God would give me a multiplicity of Blessings that I should Preach to 
the nations of the earth & to the inhabitants upon the Islands of the Sea & that I should then 
return & stand upon Mount Zion in the flesh even in Jackson County Missouri at the Gumming 
of Christ & that I should be cought up to meet him in the Clouds of heaven for he said this was 
the word of God unto me & Also that I should visit COLUB & Preach to the spirits in Prision & 
that I should bring ah of my friends or relatives forth from the Terrestrial Kingdom (who had 
died) by the Power of the gospel. These & many other Blessings were Pronounced upon my head, 
& further Said that I should be annointed & my life sealed unto me & that their would be still 
greater blessing Pronounced upon my head. I felt much of the Power of God rest upon me in this 
ordinance & Bear witness of the truth of the above PROCLAMTION. 


Jan 4th I met in Company with the high School of Kirtland in the house of the Lord for the 
purpose of a public examination It being the last day of the first quarter. The examination lasted 
about three hours. Then after an intermission of one hour we again repaired to the house & herd 
an interesting lecture deliverd on Education By Professer Haws. We have now a vacation of four 


Page85 





weeks & the nejxt?] term will then commence. 

5th I repaired to the house of the Lord for a Prayer meeting at 2 oclock PM. We had a good time. 
One man gave us an account of the general gathering of Israel in the gift of tongues. I interpreted 
the Substance of the same. 

6th I visited the office of the Kirtland Safety Society & saw the first money that was issued by the 
Treasurer or Society. It was given to Brother Bump (in exchange for other notes) who was the 
first to Circulate it. 

I also herd President Joseph Smith jr. declare in the presence of F Williams, D. Whitmer, S. 
Smith, W. Parrish, & others in the Deposit Office that he had receieved that morning the Word of 
the Lord upon the Subject of the Kirtland Safety Society. He was alone in a room by himself & 
he had not ownly the voice of the Spirit upon the Subject but even an audable voice. He did not 
tell us at that time what the LORD said upon the subject but remarked that if we would give heed 
to the Commandments the Lord had given this morning all would be well. 

May the Lord bless Brother Joseph with all the Saints & support the above named institution & 
Protect it so that every weapen formed against it may be broaken & come to nought while the 
Kirtland Safety Society shall become the greatest of all institutions on EARTH. 

Jan 6 Wrote a Letter to Brother Asahel H Woodruff. 

Sunday Went up to the house of the Lord to worship. We had an interesting meeting. Their was 
about fifteen hundred people assembled. Their was two discourses deliverd from the Aaronic 
Priesthood one from Councellor Knight & the other from Priest Willey. Priest Willey had much 
of the Spirit of God in Preaching to the Church after breaking bread Elder Sherman Sung in the 
gift of tongues & proclaimed great & marvelous things while clothed upon by the power & spirit 
of God. Elder Smoot for the first time after his sickness Also attended meeting. 

I spent the evening with Priest Turpin at Bishop Whitney's. Had a vary happy time in speaking 
Singing hearing & interpeting tongues & in prayer with the family. 

10 Tuesday evening I met in the house of the Lord with the quorum of the Seventies. Their was 
about 12 ordained of the third Seventy under the hands of Elder Shermon. We had a spiritual 
meeting. Elder Brigham Young one of the twelve gave us an interesting exhortation & warned us 
not to murmer against Moses (or) Joseph or the heads of the Church. 

I I Wrote two letters one to A B Willson & [the] other to Brother Levi Tailor. 

12 Wrote two Letters one to Brother Daniel Thomas the other to Simeon Hendricks. 

14 Wrote two Letters one to Wright Akeman in the Arkansas & the other to David Cranshaw. 

15 Sunday Attended meeting in the house of the Lord. President Rigdon preached in the Spirit & 
exhorted the Church to union that they might be prepared to meet every trial & difficulty that 


Page86 




awates them. 


Jan 16th Elder Abram O Smoot was again attacked by the destroyer Which brought him upon a 
bed of Great disstress. We immediately called upon the Elders of the Church, viz. Elders O Hide 
& H C Kimble of the twelve & B. Nobles, M. Holmes, & myself of the first Seventy. We prayed 
with & for him & lade hands upon him according to the scriptures & he was immediately healed 
of his pain & fever <in the name of Christ>. 

17th Met at Candle light With the quorums of the Seventies & was favored with a lecture from 
President David Whitmer. He warned us to humble ourselves before God lest his hand rest upon 
us in anger for our pride & many sins that we were runing into in our days of prosperity as the 
ancient Nephites did & it does now appear evident that a scourge awates this stake of Zion even 
Kirtland if their is not great repentance immediately & almost every Countenance indicates the 
above expectation esspecially the heads of the Church. See Dec 1 1th 1836. May the Lord in 
mercy enable us to Meet every event with resignation. 

20th Wrote a Letter with Brother Kimble to Brother Thomas B Marsh in Zion. 

22nd Sunday Went up to the house of the Lord to worship. Elder John E Page occupied the 
former part of the day With an interesting relation of his travels for the last eight months in the 
profince of uper Canida. He stated that he in Company With Elders James Blakesley & Harris 
had Baptized 267 persons. He also gave an account of his persecutions &c which he had to 
endure. The latter part of the day was occupied by Elders Kimble & Green & of Communion. 
Also at Candle light I herd an interesting discourse from Elders P. P. Pratt & J. E. Page at Brother 
Bosley's. Elder Pratt Also Warned us to humble ourselves before God & feed the poor & Clothe 
the needy & put away all our Sins lest Judgment overtake us spedily. 

Jan 23rd As Elder Abram O Smoot hath been much out of health Since he hath been in Kirtland 
he desired to return home into the South Country to spend the winter in a wann Climate with his 
friends. I accompanied him to father Smiths to officeate in the office of a Scribe While he 
receieved his Patriarchal blessing. Accordingly the Patriarch JOSEPH SMITH sen. Pronounced 
his blessing upon his head in the name of the LORD & I wrote it down for him. It was truly a 
great blessing. We had it recorded & I gave Elder Smoot a copy of it in Print that he might take it 
home with him as he was expecting to leave the day following. 

24th Took the pains to assist Elder Smoot to Settle his business in Kirtland which took up the 
major Part of the day. I Met at Candle light in the house of the Lord with the quorum of the 
Seventies. We had an interesting interview. Their was several ordained under the hands of 
President Silvester Smith to the third Seventy. Then we herd two lengthy discourses one from 
Elder J. E. Page and the other from Elder P. P. Pratt which was interesting in the first degree. The 
meeting Closed but little before midnight. 

We had been threatened by a mob from Panesville to visit us that night & demolish our Bank & 
take our property but they did not appeare. But the wrath of our enemies appears to be kindled 


Page87 




against us. This in part is the Scourge that hath awated us. But may the Lord show us mercy & 
deliver us from the hand of our enemies for Christ Sake. 

25th Took the Parting hand with Elder A O Smoot & he started on his journey. May the Lord 
bless him & enable him to reach his friends in peace. 

At early Candlelight the heavens began to show forth the signs in fulfillment of the Prophecy of 
JOEL recorded in the 2nd Chap 30th vers of the Book of Joel. The clouds of fire & blood began 
to arise in the N. E & reached unto the N. W which principly covered the horizon. The reflection 
of the Clouds upon the earth which was covered with Snow presented a vary red appearance. It 
commenced at 6 oclock & continued untill 10 or past <when the heavens were covered with pure 
red>. 

Jan 27th Wrote a Letter for Elder M Holmes. 

28th I attended a Court with the quorum of the Seventies to settle a difficulty between Elder 
Hiram Stratten & I. H. Bishop. Elder Holmes and myself was chosen among the counsellors. 
Elder Stratten acknowledge’d his faults & was restored. 

29th Sunday I met at Elder J.P. Greens at 9 AM in company with 7 others to act as bearers to 
Convey the Corps of Sister Mary Boyington to the house of the Lord Whare a funeral Sermon 
was deliverd by Elder P. P. Pratt. 

The latter part of the day was spent in communion & addresses from Presidents O Cowdery & J 
Smith Jr. JOSEPH blessed us in the name of the Lord & Said if we would be faithful we should 
rise above our imbarresments & be delivered from the hands of our enemies. 

30 Spent the day in writing. Wrote a peace for the Messenger & Advocate. 

3 1st Met in the house of the Lord at 10 oclock AM & herd an address from President's J. Smith jr 
& S Rigdon on the temporal business of the Church & Petitioned for a Charter to the Assembly 
of the State for the Kirtland Safety Society & the presidency of the Church bought the Monroe 
Charter & we all lent a hand in esstablishing it that it might be benificial to us in forwarding the 
building of the temporal Kingdom. 


February 

Feb 1st I again commenced School confining myself to the Latin language mostly. 

5th Sunday Spent the day in the house of the Lord in worship. 

12th Sunday Spent the day in the Lords house. Communed with the Saints. 

Feb 19th I repaired to the house of the Lord & stood in the midst of the Congregation of the 
Saints whare I beheld President JOSEPH SMITH Jr. arise in the stand & for several hours 
addressed the Saints in the power of God. Joseph had been absent from Kirtland on business for 


Page88 




the Church, though not half as long as Moses was in the mount, & many were stir’d up in their 
hearts & some were against him as the Israelites were against Moses. But when he arose in the 
power of God in their midst, as Moses did anciently, they were put to silence for the complainers 
saw that he stood in the power of a Prophet. O how weak is man. 

26 Sunday President Joseph Smith jr. again addressed the Congregation of the saints in the power 
and spirit of God. 


March 

March 1st I spent in school. This is my birth day bringing me to 30 thirty years of age. How fleet 
is time. 

4 Saturday I spent in School. During the day I was called to lay hands upon Elder Sherwood’s son 
that was sick with the plurisy. He was deaf and dumb. He was healed of his sickness. 

VERA [Printed upside down] 


AMICITIA 

4 Thou scenes of life how variant, how trancient. 

5 Sunday Wrote a Letter to my friends in the east. 

22 The last seventeen Days have been principly spent in school. I have attended some interesting 
meetings during the time. 

March 24th I left school under view of spending some time in studying History & preparing for 
the endowment .Note(4) 

March 23rd I repaired to the house of the Lord at an early hour in the morning to spend the day in 
prayer and fasting With the saints in Kirtland, as this was a day set apart for that purpose. 
Immediately after entering the house in company with several other Elders, I went within the veil 
and we bowed down before the Lord in the Aronic stand & offer’d a morning sacrifice, & the 
Spirit of God rested upon us with joy to our Souls. 

I was Called upon, by the Patriarch JOSEPH to read a Chapter in the book of Mormon. I then 
read the third Chapter of the Book of Jacob, which contains the parable of the tame olive tree 
likend unto the house of Israel as was spake by the Prophet Zenos. The same God that touched 
Isaiah's lips with hallowed fire, gave Zenos great wisdom in setting forth this parable. 

After I had made some brief remarks upon the subject the congregation took their seats, for the 
services of the day, in the following order: The house being divided into four parts by veils, the 
females occupied two parts & the males the others. Some of the presidency presided in each 


Page89 




appartment. 

The time was taken up during the day in each appartment in singing, exortation, & prayer. Some 
had a tongue, others an interpetation, & all was in order. The power of GOD rested upon the 
people. The gifts were poured out upon us. Some had the administering of angels & the image of 
GOD sat upon the countenances of the Saints. 

At 4 oclock PM the Veils were all rolled up together which brought the whole Congregation in 
full view of each other and while the presence of the LORD filled the house the congregation of 
the Saints fell upon their knees & all as one man, vocally poured forth rejoicing, supplication & 
Prayer, before the God of Israel which Closed the services of the day, after contributing for the 
support of the poor. *(5) 


<[— ] my spirit in my God [ — ] the blessings in the [— ] the man [-] the shadows of night [-]> ever 
<[-] of & man [when?] the center to his soul and interest [-] his mind into [— ] not expressed thus 
they cause [was?] misled while the> ARMOR of GOD <and enjoying the> amicicia <of a 
Saint.>*(6) 


March 26th Sunday Communed with the saints in the fore part of the day. In the latter part, Elder 
W. Parrish Preached the funeral sennon of Sister Pratt the wife of Elder P. P. Pratt one of the 
twelve who died March 25th 1837. 


March 27th I signed $50 fifty Dollars for the building of the house of the Lord in Zion. The 
subscription list was in the hands of Elder Elisha H Groves. 


April 

April 2nd Attended worship in the Lords house upon this Sabbath day. I have spent the time for 
several days past In perusing the Outlines of ancient and modern HISTORY on a new plan, By 
Rev Royal Robbins. It strikes the reflecting mind with deep sensibility to contemplate the scenery 
of the rise progress decline & fall of the Nations and kingdoms of the earth from the days of 
ADAM untill 1837 years after Christ. And it is equally interesting to comtemplate the day that is 
now at hand & hath already began in fulfillment of Ancient prophecy in bringing the Church of 
Christ out of the wilderness in esstablishing Israel upon those lands by a Theocratical 
government in fulfillment of the covenants God made with Abram Isaac & Jacob. 

As this hath began in my day & I am called to act a part in the work by being placed with the first 
Seventy Elders of Israel to become a special witness of Jesus Christ to all Nations I need much 


Page90 





faith fortitude, holiness, & wisdom. May the Lord enable me not to seek honour from man but 
God & be faithful in clearing my garments of the blood of Gentile & Jew and do honour to the 
HOLY Priesthood & the Annointing that now awaiteth me. 

April 3rd The day had now arived for preperations for the solumn assembly the Annointing & the 
endowment of the Elders of Israel or at least for those that were not endowed in Kirtland the 
strong hold of the daughters] of Zion in the spring of 1836 & as I was absent at that time my day 
is now come & my time at hand for those blessings & I shall record the events of each day of the 
endowment for the benefit of the generation to come. 

I upon this third day of April met in the house of the Lord with a number of the seventies to 
receiev counsel respecting our washing & anointing. I was appointed with Elder G. Meeks to 
visit President F. G. Williams & have the perfumes & oil prepared against the day following. I 
consider’d it a privilege to wait upon the Elders of Israel in this thing that we might become the 
annointed of the Lord according to the words of the Poet & the Revelations of JESUS CHRIST. 

We’ll wash and be washed and with oil be anointed 
Withal not omit the washing of feet 
For he that receiveth his PENNY appointed 

Must surely be clean at the hearvest of wheat. 

After attending to the duties above spoken I repaired to a room in Company with Elder Meeks & 
Priest J Turpin to attend to our first washing. After washing our bodies from head to foot in soap 
& watter we then washed ourselves in clear watter next in perfumed spirits. The spirit of God 
was with us & we had a spiritual time. We spent the evening with several Elders in Prayer before 
God & the Power of God rested upon us. 


April 4th I met at the house of Elder Hales at one oclcok PM in company with twenty three 
Elders President Joseph Young making one of the number for the purpose of attending to the 
ordinance of washing the body with clean watter & perfumes that our bodies might be prepared 
for the anointing. 

President Young opened the meeting by prayer. We then proceded to the ordinance. Myself & 
Elder G. W. Meeks were the first washed under the hands of President Joseph Young. We then 
assisted President Young in washing our Brethren the Elders. Much of the spirit of God rested 
upon us. I washed & perfumed the bodies of a number of my Brethren & the interview Closed 
after expressing our feelings to each other. 

We again met together in the quorum of the Seventies at the upper part of the Lords house at 
early candle light to receieve our anointing. The quorums of the Deacons, Teachers, & Priest 
occupied one apartment the Elders another & the Seventies the third. Each quorums met for the 
anointing. Three of the presidents met with the Seventies viz H Aldrich J. Young and Z. 


Page9 1 




Coultrin. 


President Coultrin opened the meeting by prayer & after conversing plainly to those who were to 
be anointed they proceded to business. The presidency consecrated the oil before God that it 
might be holy. The person to be anointed then took a seat & the presidency then laid hands upon 
his head & Consecrated him unto God & then anointed him in the name of the Lord & 
pronounced such blessings upon his head as the testimony of Jesus shall direct which is the spirit 
of prophecy. We had a glorious season indeed in this solumn ordinance of the house of the Lord. 
There were fifteen annointed in our quorum mostly by President Coultrin. The Power of God 
rested upon us. 

President Coultrin anointed me & the following are some of the blessing that he pronounced 
upon my head while clothed upon by the spirit & power of God, viz. That God would bless me 
with all the powers of the Priesthood & give me a multiplicity of blessing that Kings would 
tremble upon their thrones at my word, that I should become a Counsellor & multitudes should 
seek counsel at my mouth & I should have great wisdom & power to fly through the midst under 
heaven as Philip travled by the spirit that I should have power over my enemies & have long life 
& bring many into the kingdom of God Also that I should have the riches of the earth & that I 
should have Sons & Consecrate them priests unto God in Zion & that I should tread upon the 
ashes of my enemies in Jackson County they that had sought to take my life & the life of my 
brethren that went to redeem Zion & he Also sealed upon my head all the blessing that had 
previously been pronounced upon me & thes blessing were sealed upon my head with a loud 
Amen from all of the anointed present in the name of Jesus Christ. 

Much of the power & spirit of God & a sens of the virtue of the ordinance rested upon me. May 
God enable me to possess those blessing & obtain thos vishions that have been promised me in 
this & other Solumn ordinances & keep me from dishonouring my anointing & the Holy 
Priesthood for Christ Sake Amen. 

The interview closed about 10 oclock P.M. I then repaired into the lower Court of the Lords 
house in Company with Elders Joseph B. Nobles & G. W. Meeks to spend the night (after being 
anointed) in prayer & fasting before God. The vales being closed We entered the Elders pulpit & 
there upon our knees we plead with God & we covenanted with each other in the holy stand that 
we would not give sleep to our eyes neither take food untill we receieved a blessing from God by 
the outpourings of his spirit upon us if it was untill the end of three days. And according to our 
Covenant we commenced praying & a part of the night we had a severe trial of our faith by great 
temptation from Satan but before day we gained a good degree of victory over the Devil & the 
Lord poured out his spirit upon us & we felt it good to be in the house of God while nature was 
hushed in silenced by the sable shades of night. 

After spending the night in prayer we returned to our homes in the morning intending to spend 
the day in prayer & fasting for still greater blessings this being upon 

April 5th. I spent a part of the day in attending the high Council the remainder in writing, Prayer, 


Page92 




& fasting. 

I again repaired to the upper /lower/ part of the house of the Lord at 5 oclock PM. with the 
quorum of the Seventies for a solumn assembly anointing &c. Three out of the seven presidents 
were present & anointed twelve. The spirit of God sat upon us & we were satisfied with our 
blessing. Consequently I returned home with those brethren with Whom I had covenanted for a 
blessing & took some food & retired to rest being 24 hours since we had taken food or sleep. 
There was much of the Spirit of Prophesy & revelation poured upon the heads of the anointed in 
the different quorums. 

April 6th 1837 This being more particular the day of the Solumn assembly or a day that is looked 
upon annually with feeling of greater interest in Celebration of the 6th of April 1830 as upon that 
day the Church of Latter day Saints was first organized in this last dispensation & fulness of 
times. Henceforth the Solumn assembly of the Elders of Israel & all official members that can, 
will meet in the LORDS house annually to attend to the most Solumn ordinances of the house of 
GOD & of receieving the visions & great things of heavens. Therefore I shall be more particular 
in recording the transactions of this day than others for it is sumthing similar to the Pentecost that 
St Paul speak of at Jerrusalem. 

I repaired to the house of the Lord at 8 oclock A.M. & after spending an hour in the lower part of 
the house the presidency of the Church Called the quorums of the Seventies into the upper part of 
the house that they might be by themselves for a while as there was some business to be attended 
to in these quorums before they Could procede to the business of the day below. In the first place 
six of the Presidents of the Seventies were to leave the Seventies & take a station in the quorum 
of the travling high priesthood and six other Presidents chosen in their stead. I shall not here give 
the particulars of this change of Councillers. Suffice it to say that all of the Councillors first 
chosen excepting Joseph Young were high priest before the organization of the seventies & they 
had a right to officiate in the lower offices of the Church & there was some difference in the 
authority and office of the quorums of high Priesthood & Seventies. The six new Presidents 
Chosen out of the Seventies to take the place of thos that were to leave were: John Gould, Josiah 
Butterfield, Salmon Gee, [ ] Foster, John Gaylard. 

After this matter was aranged there was a glorious ordinance performed upon the heads of those 
who had been anointed (by the first presidency of the Church Joseph Smith jr. Sidney Rigdon &c 
was this ordinance perfonned. It was as follows: 

While all of the anointed present lifted there hands towards heaven this first presidency of the 
Church Confirmed & sealed upon our heads all the blessings of our ordination, anointing, & 
Patriarchal with a seal in the presence of God & the Lamb & holy angels that they should all be 
fulfilled upon our heads that not one jot or tittle should fail & the seal was confirmed upon our 
heads with a shout of all the anointed with uplifted hand to heaven HOSANNA, Hosanna, 
Hosanna, to GOD & the LAMB, Amen, Amen, & Amen. *(7) Hosanna Hosanna, Hosanna, to 
GOD & the LAMB, Amen, Amen, & Amen. * (8)Hosanna, Hosanna, Hosanna, to GOD & the 


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LAMB, Amen, Amen, & Amen. This was repeated as it is written & if ever a shout entered the 
Cabinet of heaven that did & was repeated by angels on high & caused the power of God to rest 
upon us. 

(O ye Priest of Baal. O, ye Gentile religionest. O ye inhabitants of Babylon possessing the mark 
of the beast, what knowledge have ye of the ordinances or blessings or virtues of the house & 
Church of God?) Great and marvelous are the blessings and power of the ordinances of the Lord 
& his gospel made manifest on these occasions. 

After being in the upper room about two hours we again Joined the congregation of the Saints in 
the lower Court & the house came to order for the business of the day. The veils were closed & 
each apartment commenced the duties of the day. 

The washing of the feet of the anointed was the first business that was perfonned. The twelve 
assisted our presidency in washing the feet. Elder Heber Kimble one of the twelve apostles 
attended to the washing of my feet & prophesied upon my head & pronounced me clean from the 
Blood of this generation. This as it was with JESUS when he washed his deciples feet. Great 
were the blessings that rested upon us in this ordinance. 

After the washing of feet, the veils were rolled, which brought the congregation into one 
assembly. The stand of the priesthood were still coverd with the veils. The Presidency stood in 
the lower stand & President Joseph Smith jr. arose and addressed the Congregation for the tenn 
of three hours Clothed with the power, spirit, & image of GOD. He unbosom’d his mind & 
feelings in the house of his friends. He presented many things of vast importance to the minds of 
the Elders of Israel. 

O that they might be written upon our hearts as with an iron pen to remain forever that we might 
practice them in our lives. That fountain of light, principle & virtue that came forth out of the 
heart & mouth of the prophet JOSEPH whose Soul like Enochs swell’d wide as eternity. I say 
such evidences presented in such a forcible manner ought to drive into oblivion every particle of 
unbelief & dubiety from the mind of the hearers, for such language sentiment principle & spirit 
cannot flow from darkness. Joseph Smith jr. is a prophet of God rised up for the deliverance of 
Israel as true as my heart now burns within me while I am penning thes lines which is as true as 
truth itself. 

President Hiram Smith followed Joseph with many useful remarks. He also was Clothed with 
much of the spirit of God. Joseph desired us to give heed to his words & teaching this once & be 
wise that Zion & her stakes might spedily be redeemed. He instructed us to be sure & ask those 
that enter the Kingdom to send up their wise men to Kirtland with there money to counsel with 
the presidency & purchase an interitance before they move their families or bring the poor to the 
places of gathering for to suffer. Also that we must keep in view the institution of the Kirtland 
Safety Society & if the Elders of Israel would be faithful & do what was in their power this once 
Kirtland should spedily be redeemed & become a strong hold not be thrown down. 


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Joseph presented us in some degree the plot of the city of Kirtland (which is the strong hold of 
the daughter of Zion) as it was given him by vision. It was great marvelous & glorious. The city 
extended to the east, west, North, & South. Steam boats will come puffing into the city. Our 
Goods will be conveyed upon railroads from Kirtland to many places & probably to Zion. 

Houses of worship would be reared unto the most high. Beautiful streets was to be made for the 
Saints to walk in. Kings of the earth would come to behold the glory thereof & many glorious 
things not now to be named would be bestowed upon the Saints. But all these thing are better 
imagined than spoken by the Children of Jacob. 

President Olvier Cowdery followed Hiram Smith & made but few remarks but verry appropriate. 
He called upon the Elders to keep within the bounds of their knowledge & to let the great 
mysteries of the Kingdom alone for the gentiles had not a knowledge even of the first principles 
of the gospel. That it was far better to preach what the people would call the small things of the 
Bible than to enter into the vishions of Isaiah, Ezekiel, & John &c. 

President Sidney Rigdon next spoke & said many important things and impress'd it upon the 
Elders of Israel with great force & eloquence to lay to with their mights this once for the 
redemption of Kirtland that Israel may be safe & free and have a place to set his foot <for if we 
do give heed to the word we should sin less.> 

After the Presidency Closed their remarks the twelve were Called upon to break bread for the 
multitude (as Jesus did in the days of the Apostles) that they might all be filled. They did so & 
we were all filled & was made glad while feasting with Patriarchs, Prophets, Apostles, 
Evangelest, Pasters, Teachers, & Deacons. 

After the feast was Closed thanks was returned to GOD with uplifted hands to heaven this being 
about the seting of the son. All had the privilege of returning to thir homes that felt disposed & 
the rest might spend the night in the house of the Lord in prayer, & exhortation, praise & 
thanksgiving. 

At about candle light the meeting commenced with great interest. Joseph requested the 
congregation to speak their feelings freely & pray according to the spirit. The saints began to 
open their mouths & they were filled with language unto edification one a prayer another 
exortation some a doctrin & a psalm others a toungue, some an interpretation. Prophecy was also 
poured out upon us & all things was done decently & in order & the night was spent gloriously 
by the saints. Much of the gifts of the gospel rested upon us. 

One Brother Clothed with the gift of tongues laid his hands upon my head & prophesied great 
blessing upon me. Another Brother possessing the interpretation uttered it unto me to my joy & 
consolation with the many blessing pronounced upon my head he rehersed the blessing that Jacob 
pronounced upon the heads of Joseph & said that I should possess the blessings of heaven & ol 
earth & be much blessed in my ministry &c. 


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Much Prophecy was uttered upon the heads of many of the Saints in other languages & was 
interpeted which was glorious. Thus was this day & night spent gloriously & those scenes will 
long be remember e d. 

Rejoice O earth & Shout O heavens for the natural fruit of the tame olive tree is again manifest in 
the earth. The fig tree is puting forth leaves. The Church of Christ is travling out of the 
wilderness with her gifts & graces which edify the body of Christ. The house of God is reared in 
beauty & splender according to the pattern given by the vishions of heaven & the revelations of 
Jesus Chri st. 

O ye gentiles come & receieve the gospel. Repent & be baptized for the remishion of your sins & 
recieve the Holy Ghost by the laying on of hands & partake of the blessing of God with Israel 
that you may be hid under the shadow of the ALMIGHTY in the day of GODs wrath & 
Indignation upon babylon which is at hand. 

The meeting continued until break of day when we all dispersed to our homes with great Joy & 
consolation. May the Lord bless the Saints & have mercy upon the poor the sick & the afflicted 
& deliver Israel from the gentile yoke for Jesus Sake. Amen. 


April 7th I spent the day in writing my Journal 1833-1898, Vol.l, & when the shades of evening 
began to appear I repaired to the house of the LORD in company with Elders Milton Holmes, & 
Joseph B Nobles for the purpose of worshiping God. We entered one of the stands within the 
veils & fell upon our knees & Satan appeared also but not to worship God but to deprive us of 
the privilege. Satan strove against us with great power by tempting & otherwis. He at one time 
drove me from my stand while I was striving with my brethren to enter into the visions of 
heaven. 

Notwithstanding his apparent victory good grew out of it for by going into the outer Court I there 
found Elder Freeman Nickerson an aged father in Israel who was faithful & Prayed to God alway. 
I solicited him to Join us in prayer that we might gain a victory over Satan & get a blessing at the 
hand of God. He joyfully accepted the invitation & we again entered the stand being four of us in 
number of one accord in one place. We had great cause to be united in heart. We all had travled 
together about 1,000 miles in the spring of 1834 for the redemption of Zion. We at that time 
offered to lay down our lives & our offering was accepted as was Abram's. 

We felt considering those circumstances that we could kneel down & unitedly get a blessing by 
faith through Jesus Christ. We fell upon our Knees & began to cry unto God. Satan departed, 
tempation found no place in our harts The power of God rested upon us & we were baptized with 
the Holy Ghost & the Spirit of God was like fire shut up in our bones. We were immersed in the 
liberty of the sons of God. Many great things were shown unto us. The power of God & the Spirit 
of prophesy & revelation rested upon us. I arose & Proclaimed many Glorious thing upon the 


Page96 





heads of my beloved brethren that were present which were dictated in my heart by the Holy 
Spirit. And I Willford testify in the name of Jesus Christ that many precious things were shown 
me concerning my brethren by the Holy Spirit in prophecy & revelation. Our hearts were made 
glad & we went our way rejoicing. *(9) 


April 8th Spent the day in writing my Journal. Spent the evening at Elder Milicans in Good 
Company. 


9th Sunday morning I repaired to the house of the Lord to worship with the Saints. Father John 
Smith opened the meeting by prayer then read the twelvth Chapter of the second Book of Nephi 
& preached from it unto the people. In the latter part of the Day Elder Kimble addressed the 
saints in the power of God. Elder O. Pratt followed with few remarks after communion. 

President S Rigdon addressed the congregation & laid before them their situation as to temporal 
things as the gentiles are striving to besiege the saints in Kirtland & would be glad to starve the 
saints to death. He also stated that the Presidency had used every means for the deliverance of the 
Church but as many of the Church had refused Kirtlan Currency which was their temporal 
salvation in Consequence of this they put strength in the hands of their enemies & those that had 
done this thing must suffer by it. 

Sidney Closed and Joseph arose & like the lion of the tribe of JUDAH he poured out his Soul in 
the midst of the Congregation of the Saints. But who can find languague to write his words & 
teachings as with an iron pen in a rock that they may stand for future generation to look upon? A 
fountain of knowledge rolled from his mouth to the people which was the word of God. Yea in 
the name of God he proclaimed that Severe Judgment awaited those Characters that professed to 
be his friends & friends to humanity & the Kirtland Safety Society But had turned tritors & 
opposed the Currency & its friends which has given power into the hands of the enemy & 
oppressed the poor Saints. Such have become Covenant Breakers for which they will feel the 
wrath of God as true as Joseph is a prophet. 

Joseph uttered the feelings of his Soul in pain while viewing the poverty & afflictions of Ephraim 
or the Saints in Kirtland at least that fals brethren should be whited walls & bring perrils upon the 
Saints. Joseph is as a father to Ephraim & to all Israel in these last days. He mourns because of 
unbelief & the negligence manifest with many who have receieved the gospel in obeying the 
commands of God. He fears lest but few be left to receieve an inheritance. There is not a greater 
man than Joseph standing in this generation. The gentiles look upon him & he is to them like bed 
of Gold conceled from human view. They know not his principle, his spirit, his wisdom, virtue, 
phylanthropy, nor his calling. His mind like Enochs swells wide as eternity. Nothing short of a 
God can comprehend his Soul. 


Page97 




April 10th I wrote two letters to the land of Zion one to Elder A O Smoot & the other to Elder 
Alexander. 


A Conference of Elders to be held at Mane Aug 12th & 13th AD 1837, on Saturday & Sunday. 


Direct a letter to Freeman Nickerson South Dennis Post Office Barnstable County Massachusetts. 


My first acquaintance with Miss Phebe W. Carter was on the eve of the 28th of Jan. 1837 at 
which time I was introduc’d to her at Elder Milliken’s by the politeness of Elder M. Holmes. 

After two & half months acquaintance we were joined in Matrimony the account of which will be 
found on the following pages. 


{ 


MATRIMONY 


WILLFORD WOODRUFF. Born March 1st 1807. 
PHEBE W CARTER. Bom March 8th 1807. 


April 13th 1837 Marriage being an institution of heaven & honourable in all, I accordingly 
accepted the honour upon this memorial day, by joining hands with Miss PHEBE W. CARTER 
in the bonds of matrimony and took upon ourselves the marriage Covenant. Elder Johnathan 
Holmes Also took the same responsibility upon himself at the same time by giving his hand to 
Miss Mary Carter in the marriage covenant. We were married at the house of President JOSEPH 
SMITH, Jr. The ceremony was solemnized by President Frederick G. Williams. President J. 
Smith sen. the Patriarch then blessed us in the name of the Lord and pronounced great Blessings 
upon us & our posterity. 

President J. Smith Jr. was expecting to Solemnize the ceremony, but his life was so beset & 
sought for by wicked and ungodly men for the testimony of JESUS, that he was under the 
necessity of fleeing from his house & home for a few days. O when will the prophets of God rest 
upon the earth? 


Page98 






We were married at 2 oclock PM and at 4 PM. the whole Company Consisting of about 16 
Couple Walked from President J. Smiths to President S Rigdons whare we were gratifyed with 
the privilege of seeing Elder George Robinson & Miss Thalia Rigdon also Joined in matrimony 
by President F G Williams. The Company dispersed at the sitting of the sun. I spent the night at 
President Joseph Smiths. May the Lord bless us all with salvation. 

The sun in the east arose to gladden earth & shed oe’r nature his pleaseing beams to Wellcome the 
return of delightful spring that drearry winter might be forgotten. No day more pleasing than 
April thirteenth 1837. While all nature smiled without friendships purest joys were felt beneath a 
prophets roof whare the brides and bridesgroom found a welcome reception, While by law with 
the nuptial cord their hands were bound their congenial hearts in one, lay cemented bearing the 
seal of Eternal life. Their friendship fonned from principle pure, virtue unsuled, bid refinement 
oe’r those hearts to rule, possessing the love of GOD the ownly foundation of true friendship. 

True the prophet Joseph from his wife, children, & house for a moment had fled. Had torn 
himself from their embrace in some lonely place to seek a shelter to escape the blood thirsty 
gentiles hands against him raised for bearing the testimony of Jesus Christ. A Patriarch yet was 
left. He Posessing a Holy Priesthood more ancient than his gray hairs arose upon his feet to bless 
in the name of GOD the married four. Being clothed in the spirit through the power of the 
priesthood he pronounced upon the wedded heads and their posterity blessing that ne’r decay. 

While heaven smiles upon the Elders of Israel friendship presents each with a bride as a help 
meet whose prayers will be wa[ft?]ed by a more holy breeze than wind up to the throne of GOD 
for their companions while bound in chains & vaults in prisons cast for the word of God & the 
testimony of Jesus. These feeble words inspire their harts to call on God that he may & send 
deliverance to the bridegroom in distance lands while under Zions banner the bride finds 
protections. 

O heaven protect the four that they their covenants may fulfill that friendship may grow old But 
pure and strong as death that peace and harmony may crown their lives. Let God direct their steps 
their hearts possess his love while personal friendship joins their hearts and hands in one. May 
light and truth their way direct untill they meet the great bridegroom. 



Vera amicitia est sempitema 


, = 




WILLFORD WOODRUFFS Patriarchal 
Blessing Receieved April 15th 1837 


Page99 






} 


At a blessing meeting held at the LORDs house in Kirtland Ohio on the 15th day of April AD. 
1837, Joseph Smith sen. the Patriarch of the Church of latter day Saints confered a blessing upon 
the head of Willford Woodruff son of Aphek Woodruff born in Farmington Hartford County 
Conn. March the 1st 1807. 

My Beloved Brother I lay my hands on thy head in the name of JESUS CHRIST the Son of the 
living GOD and seal a blessing on thy head which shall reach thy posterity a seal that shall not be 
taken from thee. I bless thee as Melchisedeck blessed Abram when he returned from the 
Slaughter of the ten kings. I confer on the all the blessings of Abram Isaac and Jacob which 
includes all blessings both temporal and spiritual, the blessings of heaven & the blessing of the 
earth. Thou shalt have all the power and authority of the Melchesedeck priesthood. 

Thou hast a great work to do in the earth. Thou shalt visit many barberous tribes of the earth. 
They shall seek to take thy life; yet God will give the power and wisdom to frustrate their 
designs. Thou shalt be blessed with posterity. Thy sons shall receieve the priesthood and be an 
ornament to the Church of Christ. Yea they shall be great men in the earth. Thou shalt be honor’d 
by them and they shall call thee blesed. 

I place a seal on thy head & no power shall be able to take it from thee if thou are faithful in 
keeping the Commandments of God. This /seal/ shall guard thee against the destroyer. Thou 
mayest have the administration of the angels of heaven. An Holy angel shall soon administer 
unto thee and reveal unto thee thy duty yea and give unto the many instructions. Thou shalt have 
the Spirit of God to instruct thee in thy mission and lead thee into all truth. Thou shalt be filled 
with the Spirit of God. Thine eyes shall be opened to look within the veil and behold the things 
of eternity. /Y ea the Lord of glory shall appear unto thee. Thou shalt put thy hands upon his feet 
and feel his wounds with thy hands that thou mayest be a special witness of his name./ Thou shalt 
understand great mysteries in this generation. Yea all the mysteries of the Kingdom of God and 
the wisdom of God shall cleave unto thee. 

I seal all of thy fonner blessings on thy head and they shall be fulfiled. Thou shalt be a great man 
in the earth. Thy intellectual powers shall be preserved and thy understanding shall be great. 

God has looked on thee from all eternity and has known thy Blood. Thou art a descendent of 
JOSEPH. Thou shalt stand in the flesh & witness the winding up scene of this generation. Thou 
shalt remain on the earth to behold thy Savior Come in the Clouds of heaven. Thou shalt be 
numbered with the one hundred forty and four thousand and shall stand upon Mount Zion and 
shall sing a song that no man can learn or sing except thy company. 

Thou shalt have access to the treasures hid in the sand to assist thy necessities. An angel of God 
shall show thee the treasures of the earth that thou mayest have riches to assist thee in gathering 
many orphan Children to Zion. 


Page 100 




Thou art one of the horns of Joseph to push the people together to the ends of the earth. No 
power shall stay thee. At thy word the winds shall be stayed. Thou shalt walk upon the waters. At 
thy command the waters shall be divided. Prisons, chains, and vaults shall not hold thee /for thou 
shalt rend them in twain/. Thou shalt be deliverd out of the hands of thy enemies by the mighty 
power of God and by the prayer of faith. Thou shalt have great blessing. 

Thou art of the Blood of Ephraim if thou will claim it by faith thou mayest bring all of the 
relatives into the Kingdom of God for they are of the blood of Ephraim. /See Vol 2d July 1, 

1838./ In the name of Jesus Christ I seal this blessing on thy head by the authority of the Holy 
Priesthood I seal thee up unto Eternal Life. Even so AMEN. *(10) 

{========================= 


PHEBE W. CARTER’S PATRIARCHAL 
Blessing Receieved 10th Nov. AD 1836 


========================= } 

At a blessing meeting held in the Lords house in Kirtland Ohio on the 10th day of NOV AD 1836 
Joseph Smith sen. the Patriarch of the Church of Latter Day Saints Confered a blessing upon the 
head of Phebe W Carter bom in Scarborough, Cumberland County State of Main the 8th of 
March 1807. 

Sister in the name of Jesus of Nazareth and by the Power of the Holy Priesthood which God hath 
confered upon me I lay my hands on thy head & place a seal on thy forward and if thou art 
faithful and Keep the commandments of God No power shall take it off. It shall be a seal against 
the destroyer. 

No blessings in heaven shall be too great for thee. Thou hast thought much on thy Redeemer. 
Thou must call on God the Father in the name of his son and he will open the heavens and rend 
the vail that thou mayest see the Son of man stand on the right hand of Power. 

Thou hast suffered in former days by being deprived of friends unto whom thou couldst unbosom 
thy mind; thou hast sorrowed in the night season and in solitary places. No one knew thy sorrow 
or saw thy tears but God thy Father. Be Comforted for thy troubles are over and God will pour 
out his blessings to thee. Thou shalt have long life and see good days. Thou shalt be the Mother 
of many children. They shall be an ornament to the Church of Christ. Thy husband shall be a man 
of Wisdom, Knowledge, and understanding. Let thy heart be Comforted and have faith in God 
and his word. 

Thou shalt labour in the Temple of the Lord thy God. Thou shalt teach thy Companions the ways 
of righteousness. 

Thou shalt have many temporal blessing. Riches shall flow in unto thee and thou shalt rejoice 


PagelOl 




rather than Complain. Thou must put thy whole trust in God. 

/{Willford Woodruff & Phebe W. Carter Was joined in Marriage April 13th AD. 1837.}/ 

/Thou art of the blood of Ephraim./ Thou shalt have a Celestial Crown. Thou shalt have a 
residence in Zion and do a great work there. Thou shalt sew the vail of the Temple and rejoice in 
the work of thy hands. If thou wilt keep the commandments thou shalt have all of thy friends. 
They shall be members of the Covenant. I seal all of these blessings on thy head in the name of 
Jesus. I seal thee up unto Eternal Life. AMEN AND AMEN. 

{========================= 

THE LAST DISPENSATION OF THE GOSPEL 


Solemn and interesting are the scenes and living realities of the present generation of the human 
family. The reflecting mind may flit back with the rapidity of lightning to the day when GOD 
spake and chaos herd and this world came into order. Then from the days of ADAM trace the 
history of man down to 1830 years after Christ both sacred and profane and place their history in 
a point of light to comprehend in one combined mass all the rise, progress, decline, and fall of all 
the nations, Kingdoms, and empires of the earth and they do not form a more compounded 
scenery of grand awful sublime and important events than is to traspire in this last dispensation 
of the gospel of Jesus Christ. The prophets and Apostles & all inspired men of God in every age 
of a theocratical government have looked, spake, & written respecting this generation with 
feelings of the deepest interest. In 1830 the stone began to roll. The Church & body of Christ 
became visible. It will continue to be propeled by the arm of JEHOVAH untill the Kingdom fills 
the whole earth & Israel gather’d, Babylon falls & Christ reigns. Then marvel not O ye reader that 
the Patriarch Joseph pronounces blessings upon the children of EPHRAIM. 

=========================} 

April 20th Spent this day in the house of the Lord in prayer and fasting with the congregation of 
the Saints. Much of the power, gifts, and graces of the gospel was poured out upon us. Speaking 
and interpeting of tongues was manifest in the Congregation. One brother sung a lengthy song in 
tongues & sister Hide interpeted the same. It was great & glorious. Much of it was respecting the 
fame of Joseph and his magnus works. 


April 21 [One and a third lines crossed out and illegible ] I paid $37 dollars of the same to Elder 
Harvy Redfield for Jacob Bump which balanced all of my account with them both. I paid $5 
dollars to Elder Heber Kimble. <Elder M Holmes and Solon Foster were witnesses of my paying 
the money.> 


Page 102 




April 22nd Receieved a Letter from my father in Law Ezra Carter under date of April 9th. 


30th Spent the last week labouring with my hands for Elder H. Kimble. 

May 

May 1st Mrs Woodruff with myself removed our boarding place to Elder W Parrishes whare we 
tarry for the present. 

5th While labouring for Elder J. Young in the latter part of the day we experienced a verry 
Sudden, hard, & rapid storm of wind and rain. A vane of it passed south of the temple in the form 
of a whirl wind or tornado. It destroyed and injured several buildings. It crushed one of Elder 
Young buildings instantly and removed the one we were in. Yet no lives were lost nor persons 
injured. Soon all was calm again. 

10th Brother Henry Harmon arived in Kirtland from the state of Main and Mrs Woodruff 
receieved nine Letters from our friends in the state of Maine. 

May 14th We wrote two Letters to our friends in the State of Maine. 

23rd Spent several of the Last weeks in labouring with my hands for Elder Joseph Young. Spent 
the fore part of this day in attending a Patriarchal meeting. I wrote a Patriarchal Blessing for 
Brother Henry Harmon. 

/25th I comenced boarding with Elder Jonathan H. Hale./ 

27th I wrote a Patriarchal Blessing, as it was delivered from the mouth of the Patriarch JOSEPH, 
for Elder Rufus M Lord. 


28th Sunday I repaired to the house of the Lord to worship the GOD of Israel with the 
Congregation of the Saints in Kirtland. Behold, it was a day of experience, of interest, & of 
Knowledge. 

The same spirits of munnering, complaining, & of mutiny, that I spake of in Feb. 19th in this 
Journal 1833-1898, Vol. 1, hath not slept from that day to the present. They have been brewing in 
the family Circle in the secret Chamber & in the streets untill many & some in high places had 
risen up against Joseph the servent whom God had raised up to lead Israel. And they were 
striving to overthrow his influence & cast him down untill Joseph was grieved in spirit to stand 
in such perils among fals brethren. 


Page 103 





But notwithstanding this thick cloud of darkness standing over Kirtland Joseph being unmoved 
in the cause entered the Congregation of the Saints arose in the stand & spake to the people in the 
name of the Lord in his own defence. The Lord was with him by his power & spirit to the 
Convinceing of the honest that he would stand & his enemies fall. 

Sidney followed him with an able discourse & several others spake in the spirit of God 
maintaining Joseph in his integrity. But; Alas, one arose, once a friend, (not now) in the 
blackness of his face & corruption of his heart stretched out his puny ann and proclaimed against 
Joseph. Joseph acted wisely while all saw the spirit of his foe. O, <Warren Warren> when thou 
art converted strengthen thy brethren. O my God deliver me from such a crime I pray thee. 

May 29th I met in the house of the Lord to attend an important Conference or meeting of the high 
Councel to attend to some important business of the Church. Let memory speak upon this 
subject. Two <of the presidency> two <of the Twelve and> one <of the seventy were stood 
before the Council for [agression?]>. It was considered not <lawful to> try <the president 
before the high Council but before the Bishop. The Presidents withdrew. The council closed 
without transacting business. 


30th /I met the quorum of seventies 20 times from Jan to May 30th./ Rode to Panesville in 
company with the Presidency & many other official members of the church of latter day Saints 
for the purpose of attending a Court. President Joseph Smith jr. was accused of endangering the 
life of Newel. This was done out of spite not because he was guilty of the charge. The court 
adjourned untill Saturday following. We then returned home. Distance of the day 18 miles. 

I spent the evening in preparcing myself to go fourth from Kirtland into the eastern country on a 
mishion to again proclaim the gospel of Jesus Christ in company with some of my brethren. May 
the Lord prosper our way. 


May 3 1 st The day had now arived for me to take the parting hand with the saints in Kirtland and 
again go into the vineyard to proclaim the word of God. I accordingly took my departure from 
Mrs Woodruff my Companion & Sister Hale who were expecting to tarry together for a season. I 
then left Kirtland in good spirits in company with Elder Hale. We walked to Fairport. 12 miles. I 
there took the Steem Boat Sandusky in company with Elders J. H. Hale and M. Holmes at 12 
oclock. We reached Buffaloo at 6 oclock in the morning the 1st day of June. The Ice was still in 
lake Erie. Distance of the day 184 miles. Fare to Buffaloo $2.50 cts. 

June 

JUNE 1st We went aboard the Indiana the U.S.A. line capt Foot. On the Erie canal, travled as 
follows: from Buffaloo to Black Rock 4 miles, Black Rock to Tonawanta 8 miles, Lockport 19 


Page 104 




m. Royalton 8 m. Middleport 4, Medina 6, Albion 10, Holley 10, Brockport 5. Distance of the 
day 74 miles. 

2nd From Brockport to Spencer's Basin, 10 miles. Rochester 10 m. Pittsford 10 m. Bushnells 
Basin 3 m. Palmyra 16, Port Gybson 5, Newark 3, Lyons 7 miles. Distance of the day 64 miles. 

3rd Clyde 9, Montezuma 11, Port Byron 6, Weedsport 3, Jordan 6 Canton 6, Camillus 5 miles 
Syracuse 9 miles. Distance of the day 45 miles. Fare to Syracuse $2.86 cts. 

4th Sunday Walked from Syracuse to Richland Oswego Co NY. whare I was again blessed with 
the privilege of taking my Brethren after the flesh by the hand viz Azmon & Thompson 
Woodruff. I had not seen either of them before for three years. I found Cousin Eldad Woodruff 
with them. 

I found sumthing of a Coldness manifest towards me & my brethren because of our religion from 
my Brothers household esspecially from Elizabeth my Brothers wife. Notwithstanding it was 
against the principal of my Brothers family to receieve us for the night we were permited to Sup 
with them when one of my former Neighbours Mr Walter Menter gave us a place to lay our 
heads for the night which we gladly accepted. 2nd Timothy 3rd ch. 3 V. O, scenes of life how 
variant, how trancient, how painful thou art. 36 miles. 

June 5th I called in the morning at Brother Azmons & Conversed with him & Also Brother 
Thompson upon temporal as well as spiritual subjects. Neither of them manifested any hardness 
towards me in the morning but both appeared affected. Brother Azmon said he was still seeking 
for light & truth & should not have left the truth or the Church of latter day Saints had it not been 
for his temptations trials &c. But I commended him to God & was under the necessity of taking 
the parting hand and perhaps for the last time of my Brethren and their household amid some 
painful sensations with a firm belief there will be a change in their household which Sentiment I 
expressed to Azmon. Let time detennin the fact. I could say in my heart Lord have mercy upon 
my Brethren my kinsman after the flesh. Yet I could not say as I left the threshhold of his house, 
(Haleatibou, Ye hall ettoubon <[God/ good?] be to> you) as I could have done had we been 
receieved in the name of the Lord. 

We then walked to Sister Calvins & Elder Duchers in Jeffersons County. Distance of the day 24 
miles. 

6th Travled to Sacketts Harbour. Visited the American Garrison which was beautiful for 
situation. Had an interview with Brother Archibal Patten. At 10 oclock PM. we took passage on 
board the Oneida at Sacketts Harbor and crossed Lake Ontario to Kingston in the province of 
upper Canida. This is the first time my feet have trod the soil of the kings dominions. (After 
spending several hours in Kingston we walked to Kingston mills in the morning of the 7th.) 
Distance of the 6th day 50 miles. 

7th Spent the night at Kingston Mills. Distance 5 miles. Fare from Sacketts Harbour to Kingston 


Page 105 




$ 1 . 00 . 


June 8th We took the steem boat at 8 oclock at Kingstons mills to go up the canal. We passed 
through a swamp of about 12 miles in length which abounded with fir such as muskrat, auter 
beaver, &c. 

From Brewers mills we passed through Crambary marsh to Jones's falls Where the boat passsed 
through four locks which were built by the British government & supposed to be the most 
splended works in America. They cost four hundred thousand dollars, being $100,000 dollars 
each. Notwithstanding these magnus works the face of the Country around them presents a scene 
of the most gloomy aspect such as a rocky, hilly, barren, uncultivated country. 

We left the boat at the locks & walked to brother Artamus Judd's in the township of Bastard 
Leads County U P G where we were Joyfully receieved by the Saints of God who were raised up 
through Elders J. E. Page & J. Blacksleys instrumentality & was much rejoiced to here of the 
work of the Lord prospering in their hands. Distance of the day 34 m. 

9th Spent the day at Brother Judds in writing. 

10th We had an interview with Elders John E Page, & James Blakesley. We accompanied them 
to the place appointed for a conference in the Township of Bastard, Leeds County, Upper Canida. 
The Conference Consisted of 13 Elders, 5 Priest, 8 Teachers, and 6 Deacons, besides a large 
Congregation of Saints. Elder J. E. Page was Chosen President & Brother William A Weston was 
appointed Clerk. I was Called upon to open the Conference by prayer. The conference then 
proceded to business. 

There was eight branches of the Church represented consisting of 300 members in all. There was 
32 Brethren presented for ordination. Elder William Draper & myself were called upon to ordain 
them. We then arose & ordained 7 Elders and 9 Priests, 1 1 Teachers & 5 Deacons. This with 
some other business Composed the business of the day. Meeting closed & we retired to our 
places of abode in peace. 

I accompanied several of my brethren to Elder Stodards whare we spent the night. Distance of the 
day 8 miles. 

June 1 1th I was called upon to address the conference in the forepart of the Day. It was with 
peculiar feelings that I arose to address a large Congregation of Saints raised up in another nation 
under an other Government seperate from mine own nation for this was the first time that I arose 
to address a congregation of Saints under the British government. I addressed the people from 
2nd Cor. IV Ch. 3, 4 verses. The Spirit of the Lord was with us & we were blessed. After I 
closed, the Saints spake with tongues and prophesyed. Five presented themselves for baptism 
which was administered unto them by Elder Page. After an intennishion, Elder Page addressed us 
upon the priesthood & bore strong testimony to the people. Our Conference Closed by returning 
thanks to God & we took the parting hand with many Brethren & Sisters. 


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I returned with several Elders to Elder Stodards to spend the night & there was a woman present 
who was possessed with the devil. She was oft times dumb & greatly afflicted by the evil spirits 
that dwelt in her. She believed in Jesus Christ of Nazareth and us as his servent & called upon us 
to cast the devil out of her. According to her request four of us lade hands upon her & 
commanded the devil in the name of JESUS CHRIST to depart out of her & it was immediately 
done & the woman arose with great joy & gave thanks & prase unto God for according to her 
faith she was made whole from that hour. A Child also that was sick was made whole by the 
laying on of hands according to the word of God. See Mark 16 ch 17th. 6 mile. 

June 12th I took the parting hand with Elders Page & Blakesley & many other Saints & travled in 
Company with 6 other brethren to the branch of Church in leeds. Distance 30 miles. 

We met together in the evening at Brother Carnes & bore testimony to the work in which we are 
ingaged. Elders John Goodson, H. Hale M Holmes & John Snider followed each other in 
testimony. I then followed them. The spirit of God rested upon us all. 

I Called upon Sister Carnes to present before us two of her Children which were sick. One was a 
suckling child. Lay at the point of death. I took it in my arms. Presented it before the Elders. 

They lade their hands upon it while in my arms & we healed it in the name of Jesus Christ & I 
returned it whole to its Mother. The other Child was also healed. The Parents praised God for his 
goodness. I spent the night at Brother Eeton's. 

13th I took the parting hand with the Saints in the Leeds Church & walked in Company with 
several Elders to Kingston in upper canida on the shore of lake Ontario a place containing 5 or 6 
thousand inhabitants. Spent the night in Kingston. Distance of the day 26 miles. 

14th I had an interview, in the streets of Kingston, with Brother's John Gribble & Isaac Russel. 

At 12 oclok we went on board the Great Britian J Whitney Capt. We reached Oswego at 7 PM. 

60 miles. Fare $1.00 dollar. Left Oswego in the line boat Maumee & travled 18 m during the 
night. The whole distance 78 miles. 

15th Travled 18 miles to Syracuse & we went on board the Saint Joseph at 5 oclock P.M. Travled 
to Rome. 45 m. The whole distance of the day 63 miles. 

16th Travled to Utica. 15 miles. We left Utica at 3 oclok P.M. in a rail car and reached 
Schenectady at 8 oclock being but 5 hours in travling 80 miles. Here we took the parting hand 
with three of our beloved brethren that had journe’d with us from Canada viz. Elder John 
Goodson and Priest's Isaac Russel & John Snider. Thes brethren were bound for the City of New 
York to Join two of the twelve in leaveing New York for England on the 20th day of JUNE AD 
1837 to carry glad tidings of Salvation to the inhabitants of Europe. Heber C Kimble & Orson 
Hyde were the first appointed to open the kingdom to England. They are the two twelve above 
spoken of and will leave America on the 20th for that purpose accompanied by five other 
brethren. May the God of Israel be with them & make them an instrument in his hands of rending 


Page 107 




the Kingdoms of this world. 

After parting with these brethren who continued on the railroad to Albany we walked 5 miles 
from Schenectady & spent the night at a tavern. The whole Distance of the day was 100 miles. 

JUNE 17th I walked in company with Elder's Hale & Holmes to Mr Browns tavern. Distance of 
the day 33 miles. We visited Albany & crossed the ferry into Greenbush. I had an unexpected 
visit or interview with Doct Slater from Richland Oswego County NY. 

18th Walked from Browns through a part of Mass, in the Canaan, Litchfield co. Connecticut & 
while I was delighted to again set my feet upon the soil of Connecticut my native state my soul 
was filled with joy to find myself pennited to strike hands with one of the Elders of Israel raised 
up in the state. It was Elder Gibson Smith who was presiding over the Canaan branch. He 
receieved us kindly & bade us welcome. A meeting was appointed and I preached to the people 
amid the most silent attention in the academy. Distance of the day 33 miles. 

19th We walked from Brother Smith's to Mr Jesse Moses whare we found Priest Julian Moses & 
a number of brethren & Sisters & we rejoiced together. Distance 7 miles. Spent the night at 
Brother Francis K Benedict. 

I was informed my father Aphek Woodruff had mooved from Colebrook to Fannington his 
former place of residence. 

20 Spent the day in writing. On this important day the Elders of Israel leave New York for 
Europe. <God bless them great God of Israel.> 

June 21st Rode to Elder C Smith’s. Distance 6 miles. 

22nd Returned to Brother Benedit. From thence I walked in company with Fracis K Benedict jr. 
to beach hill in Colebrook, Litchfield County Con. Here I had the happy privilege of again 
embracing my Sister Eunice Woodruff face to face. We saluted each other with a harty Shake ol 
the hand <and a kiss>. It had been five years since we last parted with each other. I found Sister 
Eunice teaching School in the rock School house near Alpha Sage's. 

After an interview & dining with my Sister we visited the Stillman neighbourhood in order to 
find Elder Dexter Stillman. From thence we walked to Mr Daniel Nortons in New Marlboro 
Barkshire Coun. Mass. From thence to Father F. Benedict's. The whole distance 40 miles. 

23rd Spent the day in writing at Brother Benedicts. 


24th We met in conference at Mr Jesse Moses in Canaan, Litchfield County, Con. to transact 
such business as might be laid before us. The conference was Composed of the following Elders: 
Willford Woodruff, Jonathan H Hale, Milton Holmes, Dexter Stillman, & Gibson Smith & Priest 
Julian Moses. Elder W Woodruff was called to the Chair & Priest J. Moses appointed clerk. The 


Page 108 





meeting opened by prayer & business called for. Two was presented for ordination & after 
having the vote of the church W. Woodruff ordained Julian Moses & Francis K Benedict to the 
office an Elder. The Spirit of God rested upon us in this ordinance. <A difficult case was brought 
before the conference but it being illegally [consented?] after investigation it was dropped.> 
After transacting the business of the day the Conference adjourned to meet on the morrow at 10 
oclock. 

25th Sunday Met according to adjournment. Elder M Holmes preached to the people and had 
great liberty of speach & was followed by the testimony of three Elders. Elder W. Woodruff 
preached in the latter part of the day from the parable of the vineyard by the prophet Zenas & 
meeting Closed by Singing The spirit of God &c. After meeting we took the parting hand from 
Elder's M Holmes & J. Moses who started on a mission to the town of Mansfield Con. 


June 26th I Took the parting hand with the Saints in the Canaan Branch & walked to New 
Marlborough Berkshire county, Mass, in company with Elders J. H. Hale & D. Stillman. We 
preached at night in the Schoolhouse. Spent the night at Mr Dan Nortons. Distance 4 miles. 

27th Walked to Mr Charles D Palmers. Preached at night in the schoolhouse in the South Parish. 
Spent the night at Col Palmers. Distance, 5 miles. 


June 28th I walked from Col. Palmers to the rock schoolhouse in colebrook, with Elder Hale. 
Here I found my Sister Eunice still employed in teaching School. I had a short interview with Mr 
Alpha Sage. 

I spent the latter part of the Day accompaning Sister Eunice in her School. A verry interesting 
time I had to behold my Sister which I had left five years before at our fathers house ownly 
twelve years of age now teaching the youth with shining accomplishments that grace the female 
sex. While she was teaching her pupils she presented me with a bundle of Letters. Fifteen of 
them were the production of Brother Asahel’s pen. 1 perused them with great interest. Their 
contents presented a great variety. 

After School Sister Eunice accompanied me to Mr Jonathan Stillman’s. After supper 1 took the 
parting hand with Eunice and in company with my Brethren Hale, and Dexter Stillman. 1 held a 
meeting in the School house in the evening. 1 preached the gospel of Jesus Christ unto the people 
& bore testimony unto the truth of the Book of Mormon. I spent the night at Mr Samuel 
Griswold. <Distance> 13 miles. 

Yes at 11 oclock AM 1 entered the school taught by Sister Eunice Woodruff. Five hours I spent 
within its walls amid as great variety of sensations as ever vibrated my bosom. I beheld my sister 
my ownly Sister seventeen years of age, adorned with youth, modesty, and lovliness, her face 
veiled with the true picture of PHILO. With a degree of admiration I gaz'd upon the change five 


Page 109 




years had brought upon her. Her sprightly step with energy was marked while teaching the 
young. 

To more perfectly call to mind the recollection of youth and past scenes and to entertain my mind 
amid the passing hours, this Sister presented me with a cheerful grace, a bundle of Letters from 
an absent Brother. I look'd them through and through. They pressed my soul with feelings. 

Asahel yes thy letters I read fifteen in number to thy sister directed. They brought to my soul as 
great a variety of feelings, as matter they Contained. They presented before my mind view the 
display of a cultivated mind and the refined talents of a brother presented to a sister with the most 
untarnished friendship, and deepest feeling for her wellfare that can grace the human Soul. 

Such teaching as those to Eunice directed if followed by the female youth would lead them by a 
thousand snares. The name of Willford was mentioned oft. <1 think he mistakes my call.> (O, 
GOD protect my Brothers, my Sister, my wife, and my Parents, for Jesus sake.) While at once I 
viewed this three years convers of Ashahel I smiled, I wept. Eunice preserve those in memory of 
a brothers LOVE. 

I left the house and by my sisters side I viewed the Colebrooke landscapes as we walked. O I 
spake of Asahel. I thought of him. We visited our Parents dwelling at Sages mills, but they had 
gone to Fannington. Stumps & stones, house and all looked natural. The house I visited no parent 
or brother was there. All silent as death. I drop’d a tear. Eunice plucked a rose as we left. We was 
soon receieved by Jonathan Stillmans. Took a seat at his board and closed the scene. How 
pleasing and how painful are the scenes of life. 


June 29th Spent the day in writing. Walked in the evening to Colebrook river Litchfield County 
Con. Preached at night in the methodist meeting house. Spent the night at the house of wid. 

Mills. Distance of the day 4 mils. 

30th We had an interview with a methodist priest. He rejected our testimony & said that God had 
neither body or parts & that it was rediculous to worship one that had. We told him the God we 
worshiped had both body & parts & warned him to repent, and left him. In our walk Elders 
Stillman, Hale and myself dined in the field upon a rich repast of Strawbury's. We walked to 
William Smiths and preached at the Schoolhouse and spent the night at Elias Crane. Distance of 
the day 8 miles. 


July 

July 1st Walked to Deacon Daniel Stillroans. Preached to him. He rejected our testimony. I 
warned him to repent &c. From thence we walked to Melven Smiths and spent the night. 5 miles. 

2nd Sunday We preached at the methodist meeting house. I Preached upon the authanticity of the 
Book of mormon. From thence we walked to Mr Fineas Bidwell. Preached at his house & spent 
the night. Distance of the day 7 miles. 


Pagel 10 




3rd We left Mr Bidwell and beach hill and repaired to a stream of pure water aside from the 
abodes of men and in company with my brethren Elders Stillman & Hale and myself we clensed 
our hands and feet in testimony against the inhabitants of beach hill who had rejected us and our 
testimony. From thence we walked to Brother William B. French in North Canaan. Distance of 
the day 10 miles. 

4th INDEPENDANCE I walked in company with Elder Hale to brothers Benedict and Moses. 
After dining with the friends I procured a horse to ride to Colebrook post office and to visit sister 
Eunice. I found two papers at Sages store directed to father and sister Eunice from Brother 
Asahel. I found no letters for us. I did not have a visit with Eunice. She had joined a party to Sail 
on Doolittles pond. On my return holm I saw them crossing the pond in a sail boat. I raised a flag 
in token of friendship. They answered me but did not know it was a brother. As they past my 
sight behind a groove I bowed to them in Silence. Ownly said God save my Sister. Spent the 
night at J Moses. Distance of the day 24 miles. 

5th Walked to Brother French's. Then in company with Brother Hale I took the stage to New 
Hartford. I had an interview with Richard B Cowls. From thence to AVON. Spent the night at 
aunt Helen Wheelers. Visited my kinsman & fonner friends in the place. Distance 30 miles. 

July 6th /A view of the place of my nativity./ This was a day of great interest to me. I left aunt 
Wheelers, after visiting Daniel Luther, and many in the place. I walked in company with Elder 
Hale on the canal to uncle Adna Hart's. From thence to Woodfords mills built and formerly 
owned by my father Aphek Woodruff. I was born and spent my youth upon the place. After 
viewing the mills, I walked to the house whare I was born & visited each appartment. The house 
and fann all look’d natural Bogue Hill not accepted. I called at Mr Henry Woodford's & saw Mrs 
Woodford. I also Called upon Mr Judds, Mrs Aliens, Z, & O Harts, at Roger Woodfords I saw 
Eldad W & Lavilla Day. I called upon uncle Titus Woodruffs family. I saw Caltha Herd. I called 
upon Capt Francis Woodruff, Erastus Woodruff, Adna &c. All glad to see me. I visited uncle 
Ozem Woodruffs family. He was absent. I saw Almirah Fuller & many other friends. 

During this walk I passed the School house in which I had spent many of my youthful days. I 
gazed upon it and also upon the grave yard in which lay the bones of many of my progenitors & 
friends my Mother not accepted. In visiting their tombs I read the inscription of several numbered 
with the dead who were well when I left Connecticut in 1832. 

I read the following inscription upon the TOMB stone of my Mother BULAH WOODRUFF the 
daughter of Lot Thompson: 

{A pleasing form a generous gentle heart 
A good companion Just without art 
Just in her dealings faithful to her friend 
Beloved through life lamented in the end} 


Pagel 1 1 




Bulah Thompson /Woodruff/ was born 1782. Died June 1 1th 1808. Aged 26 years. 

Aphek Woodruff was bom NOV 1 1th 1778 {<[descendent /drownded]>} Married NOV 29th 
1801 

Azmon bom NOV 29th 1802 
Ozem Thompson bom Dec. 22nd 1804 


Willford bom March 1st 1807 


Azubah Hart born July 3 1st 1792 

Married to Aphek Woodruff NOV 9th 1810 

Philo born NOV 29, 1811 Died NOV 25th 1827 Aged 17 years 

Ashahel Hart bom April 1 1th 1814 /Died Oct 18 1838 24 years/ 

Franklin born April march 12th 1816 Died June 1st 1816 

Newton born June 19th 1818 Died September 1820 <drowned> 

Julius bom April 22 1821. Died [ ] 

EUNICE born June 19th 1820 / Died Aug 4th 1841 Aged 20 ./ 


After spending most of the day in visiting the before mentioned friends I walked from Ozem 
Woodruffs to Fannington to again visit my Parents who had mooved from Colebrook, a few days 
previous, to their former place of residence. I arived at my fathers house at the setting of the Sun 
whare I was once more in life blessed with the happy privilege of taking my parents by the hand 
& of beholding them face to face after being seperated from them rising of five years. I was 
joyfully receieved and made heartily welcome. I visited the mills whare I had spent several years 
& found things looked natural. I spent the night plesantly at my fathers house. Distance of the 
day 16 miles. 


7th Spent the day at my fathers in writing. Wrote a Letter to Brother Asahel H Woodruff. 

8th I walked from my fathers house into the west street of Avon. I called upon uncle Thadeus 
Thompson, Grandmother Thompson & her household & many other relatives & neighbours all of 


Pagel 12 




which manifested pleasure in seeing me. I spent the night at uncle Titus Woodruff & was 
rejoiced to see him once more. The distance of the day 7 miles. 

9th Sunday Walked to Uncle Ozem Woodruff & found him at home. I was truly rejoiced to once 
more take this dear friend by the hand. Oft hath this friend led me by the hand in my youth. Oft 
hath uncle Ozem taught me the gifts & graces of the Church of Christ. <1 saw him in the celestial 
kingdom in a vision. > O God have mercy upon him & enable him to stand in the new and 
everlasting covenant. 

I also visited Alson Thompson, & other friends. I preach at the lovly streat Schoolhouse to a full 
Congregation of relatives & friends that gave strict attention & treated me with kindness. The 
Spirit of God rested upon us. I spent the night at uncle Alson Thompson's. Distance of the day 4 
miles. 

Uncle Ozem Woodruff & his wife receieved the word into good and honest hearts. They believed 
the word & bid me God speed. 

10th I walked in company with Elder Hale to Collinsville. I had an interview with Samuel 
Barber. Uncle Ozem was assisting in building a stone dam across the river at Collensville. 

I visited a pine grove that I often retired to in 1830 for prayer & meditation. I had many 
interesting seasons by day & by night while tending a mill for Collins in 1830, in the pine grove 
above spoken of. I spent about 3 hours in this groves reading the book of mormon and prayer. 

I met at the city hall in Collinsville at 6 oclock PM for the purpose of preaching the gospel to the 
people. Immediately after I arose and commenced speaking the beating of drums was herd at the 
doors. Laughing & sneering was previlen in the Congregation. The Prysbeterian Priest was 
enraged against the truth. As soon as I closed the priest hurried himself to the place whare I 
stood. I was immediately surrounded by the congregation. The priest said I had no right to enjoy 
my opinion. He became angry & said many verry inconsistant things. After presenting him with 
some cutting truths he left me & the priest & the people with very few exceptions rejected us & 
our testimony. 

Brother Hale & Ozem Woodruff, & myself repaird to the groves for prayer. We had a good time. 
We spent the time or night at Mr Bush. Distance of the day 3 miles. 

1 1th We walked to uncle Ozem Woodruff. Brother Hale & myself repaired to a stream of pure 
water & we there cleansed our hands and feet and bore testimony before God against Mr 
Vanarsdalen a Prysbeterian priest who rejected our testimony & against the whole villedge who 
rejected our testimony. 

I preached at the Lovly Street School house at Candle light upon the authenticity of the Book of 
Mormon. The people gave good attention. I spent the night at uncle Ozem Woodruffs. We 
Conversed upon the things of the Kingdom untill the following Day 


Pagel 13 




12th And during the night at 2 oclock AM. uncle Ozem Woodruff & his houshold believed the 
fullness of the everlasting gospel & I led them fourth at the Same hour of the night and baptized 
them for the remission of their sins, being three of them viz. Ozem Woodruff, Hannah Woodruff, 
& John Woodruff, their Son. Glory to God in the Highest for this blessing. The Lord hath given 
me the desires of my heart in this thing which is in fulfillment of a vision given me in 1818. All 
is now fulfilled. 


After Baptizing the before mentioned friends I walked in Company with Elder Hale to Simsbury 
to visit aunt Gossett's household. They receieved us kindly & believed our teachings. I was truly 
glad to behold them face to face & teach them the things of the Kingdom. Spent the night with 
them. Distance of the day 10 m. 

July 13th I took the parting hand with Aunt Anna Gossett & Bulah Hart, Cousin Betsey, Anna, 
&c & walked to Adna Harts in Avon. Distance of the day 1 2 miles. 

14th Spent the day in visiting my relatives. Rode to Farmington & took supper with father, 
mother, & Sister Eunice & had the happy privilege of reading a letter from <my dear> PHEBE 
<my wife> which gave me the information that she was on her way to farmington. We returned 
& spent the night at uncle Thadeus Thompson’s. 10 m. 

15th Walked to Brother Ozem Woodruff & Preached at the school house. Spent the night with 
Brother Woodruff. Distance 2 miles. 

16 Sunday Walked to aunt Wheelers. From thence to Adna Hart's whare we had an appointment 
for preaching. I had the happy privilege of once more striking hands with Phebe my wife. She 
came to attend the meeting in Company with Mother & sister Eunice. I Preached to a 
Congregation at 5 oclock PM. which was Composed of relatives, neighbours & former friends. 
After meeting I took the parting hand with Brother Ozem Woodruff & John & other friends & 
walked to my Fathers in farmington with Brother Hale whare we spent the night with my Parents 
& Sister & wife. Distance of the day 10 miles. 

17th Spent the day in writing at my father's in company with my friends, Phebe, Eunice Mother 

&c. 

18th Spent the day at my Fathers. I wrote an acrostic for sister Eunice Woodruff in her ALBUM. 
I took a walk in the afternoon with Phebe and Eunice. 

19th Spent the day at fathers. I took the parting <hand> with Brother Hale who started for New 
Rowley. I preached in the methodist meeting house in Farmington at candle light to an attentive 
Congregation. They appeared satisfyed with the doctrin. My parents, sister, & wife were present. 
The Congregation requested me to hold another meeting with them. 


Pagel 14 





Pagel 15 






August 


Aug 1st I took the parting hand with the friends in New Rowley & walked in Company with 
Elder Hale to New market River in Rockingham County New Hampshire. The sea tide was in & 
the water being salt we went into it & bathed ourselves. We then took the stage & rode into 
Dover a place of six thousand inhabitants & spent the night at Capt Benj. Wiggin's. The distance 
of the day 40 miles. 

2nd Spent the day in Dover visiting the cotten Factories &c. 

3rd Walked to South Burwick York County State of Maine. This is the first time I visited the 
state of Maine. We dined at Mr Henry Plumer's. Then walked to Mr Moses Cooper & found 
Sister Sophia Cooper strong in the faith. I preached in the evening. Elder Hale was sick through 
the night & I felt much unwell. We were both poisioned <by [--]>. Distance 8 miles. 

4th Walked to Wells a village standing upon the sea shore. We were 111 through the day. Distance 
18 miles. 

5 Walked to SACO Mane population about 4,000. From thence to Brother Edward Milliken & 
spent the night. 2 1 m. 

6th Sunday We had an interview with Elder Lord. We visited Mr Samuel Lowell & his family. 
Spent the night. <A [child?] was [-].> 

7th Walked to Brother Townsend. Spent the night with him. 3. 

8 Walked to Brother E Millicken & Soon Elder Milton Holmes arived from New Rowley 
bringing my wife with him. We were all happy to again meet. 

After dining I wrode in Company with PHEBE my wife to Mr Ezra Carter's my father in Law. 
This is the first time I ever visited his house, or saw any of the family. It had been about one year 
since Phebe left her fathers house to go to Kirtland. When we arived at father Carter's he was 
absent. Mother Carter was confined to a bed of sickness & had been very low, but was fast 
recovering. One brother was at home & all of the Sisters being four of them viz Sarah Foss, 
Rhoda, Shuah, & Mary. Joseph F Carter was present. Two other brethren were absent viz Ezra & 
Ilus. It was an affecting meeting. We were both joyfully receieved & made Wellcome. During the 
evening father Carter came home & we all rejoiced. <Distance of the day> 10 miles. 

9th Spent the day at father Carter's in Company with Elders Hale & Holmes & other friends. I 
wrote a letter to My Parents in Farmington Con & inclosed $5 dollar to them. 

AUG 10th <Having the [-] of the [road?] [in/ and?] their [— ]> I rode in company With Mrs 
Woodruff to Cyrus Fenderson's. We had an interview with <Sister> Aphia Woodmans Mother & 
Brother & Sister. From thence we rode to Brother James Townsend & saw Elders Hale & 
Holmes. Sup’d with them & returned to Father Carters whare I was privileg’d with an interview 


Pagel 16 




with Ezra Carter jr. & his Lady. 2 [.]. 

1 1th In company with Ezra & Fabyen Carter I entered a fish boat & put forth into the Sea for the 
purpose of fishing. We spent the day and night at anchor & caught 250 fish such as Cod, 
Haddock, Hake, &c. I also Saw four WHALES. Two of them appeared in view at the Same time. 
This was the first time I ever saw a fish belonging to that kind that swallowed Jonah. <1 was 
somewhat sea sick.> Spent the night at sea <Distance of the day> 8 m. 

12th Returned to Father Carters. 3 miles. 

13th Sunday Rode to Brother Edward Milliken. Held a meeting with the saints & returned to 
Father Carters. Distance 14 miles. 

14 Wrote a letter to Sisters Aphia W<oodman> & Sarah M<illken>. 

15 Spent the day at Sister Sarah Foss. <We all went out [here/hear preach?] and he [gave 
me/some?]. > We returned and spent the night at Father's. 

16 Spent the day at Father Carter’s. 

17th Wrote a letter to the Saints in Zion. Directed it to Elder A O Smoot or Levy Taylor. 

18th I took the parting hand with the friends, such as father Carter's household my wife &c & left 
Scarborough in company with Elder Hale for the purpose of visiting the Islands of the Sea to 
preach the gospel to those that trade in ships &c. <We stopped and bathed in the salt water on the 
way.> 

We arived at Portland in the evening. I had an interview with my Brother in Law Ezra Carter jr. 
The population of Portland is about 16,000. 1 spent the night in the city at Mr Samuel Hale's. 
Distance 10 m. 

19th We took the steam boat Bangor at 1 1 AM for fox Islands. We arived at Owls Head at 
sunset, left the boat & went on shore. Fare $3. Distance 85 miles. <Retired to [grove?] and 
prayed.> 

We went aboard of a Sloop and Crossed to fox Islands. 10 miles. Arived at 2 oclock in the 
morning of the /95 miles/ 

20th. Called at Nathaniel Dyers & retired to rest. Arose in the morning. Made ourselves known 
as servents of GOD. We enquired concerning meetings & learned there was to be preaching to 
day as it was the sabbath in the Baptist meeting house in the centre of the North Island which was 
part of Vinal haven. Mr Benjamin Kent accompanied us to the place of meeting. 

When we arived the meeting had commenced. We conversed with the Deacon of the Church, & 
informed him we were servents of the Lord, had a message to the people & wished to be herd. He 
conversed with the Baptist Priest by the name of Gideon J. Newton upon the subject. He did not 


Pagel 17 




object. We were invited into the stand & Mr Newton gave out an appointment for us to preach at 
5 oclock PM. When he closed his discourse he invited us home with him & gave us some 
refreshment. We presented him the Book of Mormon. He was mild and said he would read it. 

Mr Newton accompanied us to the meeting house. The Congregation assembled at the appointed 
time and amid peculiar feeling I arose and addressed them from Gal. 1 ch 8:9. This was the first 
time that I or any Elder of the Church, (to my knowledge) ever arose before the inhabitants of 
one of the Islands of the sea to preach unto them the fulness of the everlasting gospel and the 
Book of Mormon. After I closed I gave out an appointment for each of the four following 
evenings to be held in the several districts of North Island. We spent the night with Mr Benj. 
Kent. Distance of the day 8 miles. 

<Elder Hale and myself had a good time in secret prayer. May God bless us on the islands and 
help us find the blood of> Ephraim. 

{<[ ]> AEIOUY <[ ]> AU OY OU} 

Vinal haven is in Lat. 44 North, Long 69.10 East. Pop. 1,800, Maine. Vinal haven includes both 
North & South fox Islands. The inhabitants are generally wealthy, healthy, intelligent, 
industrious, generous, and hospitable to strangers. The people get most of their wealth & living 
by fishing. The Town of Vinalhaven fits out rising of 100 licensed Sail beside small craft. 

North fox Island is 9 miles long & 2 miles wide. Pop 800. They have a Post office, one store, a 
Baptist church & meeting house & four school houses & a grist mill. The land is rather rocky & 
rough yet there is many good fanns which produces good wheat, barley, oats, potatoes, & grass 
which is the staple production. The principal timber is fir, spruce, hemlock & birch. Sheep are 
the principal stock upon the Island. Rasp. & Goose buries grow in great abundance. 

South fox Island comes as near being without any form or void as any land I ever saw. It would 
be difficult for the best historian to give an exact description of it. It is about 10 miles long & 5 
broad and it is one universal mass of rocks formed into shelves, hills & dales cut up into necks & 
points to make room for the cooves & harbours that run through and through the Island. Pop is 
1,000. They get their wealth entirely by fishing. Their principal stock is sheep. Their is some 
small parts of the Island under Cultivation, but it is at the expense of great labour and toil. Many 
of the inhabitants of this Island fish at Newfoundland & bring their fish home & dry them upon 
their own flakes & prepare them for market. They supply the market annually with great 
quantities of dried fish, Mackerel & boxed herren. There is two stores, three tide saw mills, six 
school houses & a small branch of the methodist church & a priest. The timber is pine, fir, 
spruce, hemlock & birch. Much of the timber & whoretlebury bushes grows out of the cracks of 
the rocks. Rasp & goose buries also grow in great quantities upon this Island. 

There is great quantities of fish inhabit the waters, cooves & harbours around these Islands, such 
as Whale, Blackfish, Shark, ground Shark PILOT fish, Hors Mackerel, Sturgeon, Salmon, 
Holloboat, Cod, Pollock, Tom Cod, Hake, Haddock, Mackerel, Shad, Bass, Ale wives, Herren, 


Pagel 18 




Pohagen, Dolphin, Whiting, Frost fish, Flounders, Smelt, Skate, Shrimp, Skid, Cusk, Blebacks, 
Scollop Dogfish, Muttonfish, Lumpfish, Squid, Fivefingers, Monkfish, Nursfish, Sunfish, 
Swordfish, Thrashers, Cat, Scuppog, Tootog, Eyefish, Gunner, Ling, Eels, Also Lobsters, Clams, 
Scollop, Mussles, Rincles, <[— ]> and Porposes, Seal, &c &c. & many others not named. 

Thus stands a brief account of the town of VINAL HAVEN. 


Aug 21st Visited the sea shore. We saw twenty gallant ships under sail. It was a fine day. We 
went to the North District & Preached in the school house. Elder Hale spake upon the 
authenticity of the Book of Mormon. I followed him. The Spirit of GOD rested upon us. We 
spent the night with Mr Stephen Luce. 10 m. 

22nd We again visited the sea shore. We gathered some Pebbles from the beach, white & other 
colours that were nearly transparent. They wash from the sea. Our intent was to preserve them in 
memory of the Island. We accompanied S. Luce Esq. in a boat to Catch some fish in Penobscot 
Bay and when we entered its mouth the bay was occupied by a magnus school of Pohagenfish. 
They cover’d acres. It was supposed there was a sufficient quantity in the school to have filled 
500,000 barrels. We caught none of them, but saw & herd them rush in large bodies upon the top 
off the water. Numerous fish Halks were busy in catching and carrying of many of them. 

From this survey we walked to the South School & I Preached to a large Congregation. Priest 
Newton was among the number. <1 was clothed with much of the Spirit of God.> We spent the 
night at Mr Benj. Kents. Distance 8 miles. 

23rd We walked to Eleazar Carvers on the east part of the Island. I stood on his fann & saw fifty 
five Islands. A part of them was inhabited. Some were not. Also twenty ships under sail. We 
preached at night in the East School house. We spent the night with Esq Luce. 4 m. 

24th Preached at the west school house to a large congregation. Spent the night with Dea[con] 
Hezekiah Eames. Distance of the day 8 miles. 

25th Elder Hale Preached in the East School house, & I Preached in the West school house at 7 
PM. I visited Benj. Crabtree Esq. In looking over his library I saw an account of John Calvin 
burning Servetus a french Physition for differing from him in sentiment &c. I spent the night at 
Lewis Liberters. Distance of the day 5 miles. 

26th We walked to B. Kents <spent some time in prayer> & visited the sea shore. We bathed in 
salt water whare there was several seal swiming around us. One of them came near us. I went to 
the North schoolhouse & Preached in the evening. Elder Hale Preached at Levy Dyers. I spent the 
night at Maltire Luce. 7 mil. 

27th Sunday I walked to the East Parish & found Elder Hale. I preached at 10 AM. on faith. I 
also Preached in the Baptist meeting house to a large congregation at 5 PM. on the coming of 


Pagel 19 



christ, & gave out five appointments for the weak. While I had a congregation during the Day, I 
was credibly infonned, that Mr Newton had not one soul beside himself to attend his meeting. 
Spent the night at Capt Justus Eames. Distance 8 miles. 

28th Wrote a Letter to Phebe. I Preached in the west district. Spent the night at Hezekiah Eames. 
We had an interview with Nathaniel Woster aged 74. He had been an inhabitant of fox Islands 70 
years. He had never been in his life 1 [1/2?] miles from sea. 6 miles. 

Aug 29th Preached at the North Schoolhouse. Spent the night at Malatiah Luce. 8 m. 

30th Elder Hale Preached at the east school house. I followed him. Stay'd with Carver. 4 m. 

3 1st Last day of summer. I visited many friends. I retired in company with Elder Hale to a grove 
& sat down under a fir tree & sung a song composed by Elders Marsh & Pratt on the last day of 
summer in 1835. The sun that declines in the far western sky, &c. We then knelt down and 
worshiped GOD. We preached in the South School house. We spent the night at Capt Justus 
Eames. Distance of the day 7 miles. 


September 

Sept 1st I Preached at Mr Levy Dyers. Spent the night at Mr Dyers. 4 miles. 

2nd Elder Hale preached at Mr Sterretts. I followed him. Spent the night with Kent. 6 m. 

3rd Sunday I Preached at Capt Justus Eames, & delivered two discourses. After I closed I opened 
a door for baptism and two offered themselves as candidates, which was Capt Justus Eames & 
his wife. We immediately walked to the sea shore and Elder Jonathan H. Hale lead them down 
into the sea & baptized them. These were the first Elder Hale ever baptized, & the first baptized 
upon the Islands of the sea (to my knowledge) in these last days by an Elder of Israel. I gave out 
an appointment for next sabbath at Brother Eames. I administered in the confirmation of Brother 
& Sister Eames. I spent the night with Stephen Luce Esq. Distance 4 miles. 

4th We walked to Brother Eames & found them rejoicing in the Lord. <1 was attacked with a 
cold.> A young man came in to enquire what he should do to be saved. I taught him as Peter did 
on the day of Pentecost. The spirit of God is like leaven through the Island. 

We walked to the Post Office. Took a sail boat to cross to South fox Island. We had a plesant 
time & sung on the way, The gallant Ships &c. It was about 1 1/2 miles across to the place of our 
landing, on the neck. 

I felt to rejoice to stand upon another Island of the sea to preach the gospel. May God bless us 
and give us access to the hearts of the people & souls as seals of our ministry. We immediately 
gave out an appointment at school house NO 1 . Elder Hale Preached on the gospel. I followed 
him. The spirit of God rested upon us. We spent the night with Mr James Babbidge. <My cold 
increased and lungs very sore.> Distance 7 mil. 


Page 120 




5 We walked about a mile from Mr Babbidge and went to the top of a high ledge and stop’d on a 
smooth granite rock covering two acres. Some of the face of it was covered with a light soil out 
of which grew the pine, the whoretlebury & wintergreen. We sat down under the shade of a pine 
for morning prayers, & O, what glorious contemplations vibrated our souls. 

Elder Hale read the XVI ch. of Jeremiah that spake of the hunters and fishers that God should 
chuse in the last days to gather Israel. And of a truth here we were on an Island of the Sea 
standing upon a rock whare we could survey the gallant ships, and also the Island, which was as 
full of rocks, holes, & caves Perhaps as any part of the earth. But what had brought us here? Ah 
to search out the Blood of Ephraim & gather him from these Islands, rocks, holes, & caves, 
which were numerous. While the sun shed his beams to gladden earth, the spirit of God caused 
our souls to rejoice. 

I sat down in company with Elder Hale. We read, and sung, and Prayed, and rejoiced. We spake 
of the ancient Prophets & Apostles in Jerusalem and Asia, Also of Nephi, Alma, Mormon & 
Moroni in America. We Also spake of Joseph, Oliver, Sidney, & of the twelve & Seventies, 
esspecially, Kimble, Hide, Goodson & others in England. Of Page & Blakesley on Canida & 
many others we thought and spake of. While filled with these meditations, & the Promises of 
GOD, we fell upon our knees and thanked the God of heaven, & Prayed for all Israel, not 
forgetting the Church of Latter Day Saints, head nor foot. We plead with God for Joseph, & for 
all the Elders and members, esspecially our wives. Our souls rejoiced, & we went our way with 
glad hearts. Will not the rememberance of these things remain forever, esspecially untill our 
heads are silver’d o’er with age? Tell it unto your Childrens Children. 

We preached in No. 2 at 7 oclock P.M. & spent the night at Mr John Smith's. 6 m. 

Sept 6th I saw a great variety this day. I passed over & viewed a pleasing Rocky scenery both on 
the beach and upland. We dined with Mr Benjamin Combs. We visited his flakes of fish, which 
contained about one thousand quintals of Cod, that were spread for drying. These were principly 
Cought at New foundland. 

From this place we walked to Carvers Wharf. Here we were for a moment diverted to see a 
School of Mackerel playing in the water by the side of the wharf while several men were 
cetching them with hooks. Elder Hale and myself flung out some hooks and had no difficulty in 
cetching a plenty of them. We Caught what we wished for and went our way, leaving thousands 
of them in the water ready to bite the hook. 

People on these Islands are now in the midst of haying, & some few began to cut their wheat. 
Fruit is now ripe such as Cherries, raspburies, Gooseburies, Currants &c. We preached at night in 
the School house No 4 and spent the night at Mr Benj. Femald’s. Distance of the day 5 miles. 

7th Preached in the School house No. 3 to a large congregation. Spent the night at Mr Israel 
Carvers. 3 miles. 


Pagel21 




8th Walked to Mr Luther Calderwoods. Elder Hale and myself went onto the beach and dug a 
peck of clams & had them cookd for dinner which made us a frugal meal. We Preached in No 1 
upon the book of Mormon. Mr Douglass a methodist Priest was present. We spent the night with 
Carver. 5 m. 

9th Mr Joseph Carver conveyed us across the thoroughfare to John Kents in a sail boat to North 
Island about four miles. Walked to Br Earns. 5 m. 

10th Sunday We met a large congregation at Brother Justus Eames at 10 AM. I Preached to this 
attentive people assembled together from the different Islands of the sea, from Math 16 ch. 17, 18 
v. 

After meeting I opened a door for baptism, when another sea captain offered himself as a 
candidate, by the name of Ebenezar Eames. He was brother to Capt Justus Eames that we 
Baptized the sabbath before. A young Lady also offered herself for Baptism. I lead them down 
into the water & Baptized them. I truly felt to rejoice to behold the mighty Captains of the sea 
enter the new & everlasting Covenant. The Spirit of God rested upon me. I addressed the people 
that stood upon the shore. Many were cut to the heart. Spent the night at Capt Eames. 

1 1th Spent the day visiting friends. Found many believing the gospel. Returned to Br J Eames. I 
accompanied several friends to the meeting house in the evening to hear Mr Douglass preach, a 
methodist Priest. He took his text in 1st Thess. 5:21. He then commenced open war against the 
Book of Mormon & our principles. After doing all he Could & but little at that, he took the Book 
of Mormon in his hand, and with an out stretched arm declared he feared none of the judgments 
of God that Should come upon him for rejecting that Book as being the word of God &c. 

I took the minutes of his discours & when he closed I arose and informed the people I would hold 
a meeting at the meeting house on Sunday and answer his objections. I however rectifyed some of 
his mistakes in his presence. Spent the night with Brother Eames. 7 m. 

Sept 12th We held a meeting at Mr. C. Sterretts & Baptized his whole household being three of 
them. Elder Hale administered the ordinance unto them. We spent the night with Brother Cyrus 
Sterrett. Distance 3 miles. 

131 walked in company with Elder Hale to the Post Office whare we both receieved a Letter 
from our wives. Phebe wrote to me, & Olive to Brother Hale. We truly rejoiced in our souls to 
hear from them. <1 had many tears of joy in them while sitting and reading them as the ships 
were passing by me.> Spent the night at Br Eames. 1 . 

141 wrote a Letter to Phebe, & Elder Hale to Olive At Brother Eames. 

151 wrote a Letter to my Parents in Connecticut. 

161 wrote a Letter to Aunt Anna Cosset & her household. 


Page 122 




17 Sunday I went to the Baptist meeting house, & there met a large congregation assembled from 
both Islands. I dwelt upon the subject that Mr Douglass handled against the Book of Mormon and 
our principals. I Preached 2 1/2 hours and answered avery objection brought against us or the 
Book. After meeting Elder Hale Baptized a female. I met the people again & Preached the gospel 
unto them. Spent the night with Br Eames. 

18 We wrote a Letter to Brother Joseph Smith jr and the church in Kirtland greeting. 

19 Mr G. J. Newton returned to the Island & brought several other Baptist Priest with him to hold 
a Protracted meeting. 

20 Spent the day in visiting the friends, & Preached at night in the east school house. I Preached 
Christs Sermon on the mount. The Spirit of God rested upon me. I spent the night at Mr Abram 
Carvers. 6 miles. 

21 Spent the day visiting friends. Elder Hale went to the south Island. I spent the night with Mr 
Ephraim Luce. Distance 5 miles. 

22 I Preached at the North School house. Spent the night with S. Luce. 2. 

23 Preached at the North School house & I Baptized one. <[— ] some but we got a victory on 
him.> Spent the night at Brother Eames. <Distance> 6 miles. 

24 Sunday Preached at Brother J. Eames to a large Congregation <[in?] school house>. 

25 Left North Island, & Crossed the thoroughfare to the South Island & called upon Mr Abigah 
Luce. I here met Elder Hale. I Preached in the evening, & spent the night with Mr Luce. Distance 
of the day 2 miles. 

26 I attend a marriage at Mr Jonathan Burgess. His daughter Martha Burgess joined in 
matrimony to Mr Joseph Sylvester. I preached in the School house No. 2. The spirit of God 
rested upon me. I spent the night at Mr John Smith's & I dreamed of Seeing the great Draggon or 
beast with all of his heads and horns to the number of six hundred three score and six. He was 
about 20 rods in length with many riding upon his back without fear or alann. 9 miles. 

Sept 27th I preached at No 4. Elder Hale Baptized one Mr Jonathan Burgess. We spent the night 
at Capt John Carvers. Distance 6 miles. 

28th Walked to Mr Anthony Coombs. Elder Hale Baptized Mrs Elizabeth Coombs. I Preached at 
NO. 3 to a large congregation. The spirit of God rested upon me. There is much of the Spirit of 
enquirey manifest by the Blood of Ephraim in this country. <[ ].> 

After meeting two boat loads of us returned to Mr Benj. Coombs by water, and while the seamen 
dip’d their ready oar we sung the gallant ships &c. We spent the night with Mr Coombs. Distance 
of the day 7 miles. 


Page 123 




29th We walked from Mr Coombs to our former place of retirement on the Granite rock (See 
Sept 5th) and spent a season of interest in prayer and Praise to God <who blessed us I pray 
in the name of the Lord [by the laying on of hands?].> We went our way rejoiceing to Mr Joseph 
Carvers. He conveyed us across in a sail boat to the North Island. We spent the night with 
Brother Sterrett. 10 miles. 

30th I retired aside from the abodes of men in company with Elder Hale and we clensed our feet 
in the pure water of the Sea as a testimony against Gideon J. Newton for rejecting our testimony 
of the Lord & of the Book of Mormon. We also bore testimony unto God against Mr Douglass 
the Methodist Priest for rejecting the Book of Mormon & our testimony & declaring that he 
feared none of the Judgments of God for rejecting these thing. The Lord rebuke him. 5 miles. 

October 

Oct 1st Sunday Preached at Br Justus Eames. Elder Hale Baptized one. We organized a small 
branch of the Church to the number of twelve and partook of the sacrament with them. This was 
the first time we ever administered the Eucharist to the saints upon the Islands of the sea. We 
were blessed with a good time. We took the parting hand with the saints as we were about to 
return to our family & friends. We spent the night with Brother Justus Eames. 

2nd We took the parting hand with Brother Eames & family, & made preperations to return to 
our friends in Scarborough. Capt Voluntine Eames vary generously offered to convey us to 
Thomaston in his Sloop. We accepted the invitation. The wind being against us we did not reach 
shore untill the setting of the sun. We took the parting hand with Capt Eames. He promised to 
obey the gospel when I returned we spent the night in Thomaston. Distance of the day 36 miles. 

3rd We walked from west Thomaston to Warren. 8 miles. To Waldoboro 8, to Nobleboro 9, to 
wiscasset 9, to Bath 12. Crossed at the Steam ferry into Bath & spent the night at the house of 
William S. Crooker's. 46 m. 

4th I Spent the day in Bath and attended the Baptist convention. I Preached at early Candle light 
to a large congregation of the Citizens of Bath in Pierces Hall. The people gave good attention 
and wished to hear further upon the subject. 

5th We walked to Brunswick 10 miles & viewed the Coiledges. From thence to Freeport 9, to 
North Yarmouth 6, & to Portland 1 1 miles. We did not eat or drink during this walk of 36 miles. 
We spent the night in the City of Portland at Mr Samuel Hale's. 36 miles. 

6th I dined with Ezra Carter jr. <my brother-in-law>. Then walked to Scarborough whar I was 
again privileg’d of greeting my wife & friend. Elder Hale receieved a letter from Kirtland 
containing important intelligence. 10 mile. 

Oct 7th Spent the day visiting the Saco branch of [the] Church. The night at [-]. 


Page 124 




8 Sunday Rode in Company with Elder Hale from Scarborough to South Berwick. We Preached 
at candlelight at Mr Moses Coopers. We found sister Sophia Cooper strong in the faith of the 
saints. Distance 33 miles. 

9 The time had now come for me to take the parting hand with Elder Jonathan H. Hale. We had 
travled together during the season about 2,000 miles. I accompanied him one 1 mile on his 
Journey. We retired to a grove and knelt down and prayed together and we had a good time and 
after commending each other to God we took the parting hand [viz?] he bent his way for Kirtland 
while I return to the Islands of the Sea. 

I preached at Mr Coopers in the evening. I spent the night with him. 

10 Rode from Mr Coopers in South Berwick to Father Carter's in Scarborough and spent the 
night at his house <with my wife>. Distance 33 miles. 

1 1 Spent the day at Father Carters writing my journal. {Note this DATE} <[-]>. 

12 13 & 14th I spent in writing in my Journal. I receieved two Letters one from my Parents in 
farmington the other from Brother Asahel H Woodruff. 

15 Sunday I Preached at the house of Sister Sarah B Foss from Job XIX ch [ ] which included 
the comeing of Christ. <This is the first time I ever preached before the household of my 
brother-in-law and neighbors and [children?].> I receieved an interesting and affectionate Letter 
from Brother Asahel H Woodruff, bearing date of Terre Haute, Sept 27th, 1837. <Spent the night 
at Father Carters.> 2 m. 

16 Spent the day in visiting Mr George Boothby <in company with Mother Carter and my wife.> 
4 mi. 

17 Spent the day at Father Carters in writing upon the death of Calvin Foss a member of the 
Church of Latter day Saints who Died Fed 28, 1835 Aged 37. 

18 Spent the day in writing. 

191 Preached at Father Carters at early candlelight. 

20th I wrote a Lengthy Letter to Brother Asahel H Woodruff. 

211 received a letter from Kirtland from Sisters Aphia & Sarah also a paper from Brother 
Asahel. I rode to Mr Joshua Moulton & spent the night at his house. <Visited [Miss?] 
Woodman.> Distance 10 miles. 

22 Sunday Visited Brother Townsend. Spent the night at Mr Lowels. 6 miles. 

23rd Visited Brother Miliken's. Returned to father Carters. Spent the night. 10. 


Page 125 




24 I spent the day at the house of Sister Foss. 

25 I wrote a letter to Brother Ozem Woodruff in Avon & Preached at candlelight at the Dyer 
Schoolhouse. {6 <[miles?] Foss.} Spent the night at Father Carters. > 

26 Spent the day at father Carters; Also the 27th. 

28th I took the parting hand with my friends & rode in company with Mrs Woodruff to Portland. 
We dined with Mr Ezra Carter jr. We spent several hours visiting the City. We had a fair view of 
Portland from the Observatory. We walked around the fort & through the burying ground & in 
the Court house. We visited Mr Samuel Hale and spent the night with Ezra Carter jr Esq. 
Distance of the day 14 miles. /Purchased Journal Portland./ 

29 Sunday We rode to the wharf & went on board the Steamer Bangor at 6 AM. There being a 
high Sea, She did not go out. I attended meeting in the evening at the Prysbeterian Church and 
herd a lecture deliverd by the Rev. John W. Chickering. I returned to Mr Carters. Was made 
acquainted with Col Arnold Carroll and Judge Upham. Spent the night at Ezra Carters Esq. 6 
miles. 

Oct 30th I visited the Bangor. I found a high Sea & saw a vessel w[reck?]. 

3 1 Spent the day at Mr Ezra Carter's. We had a visit fonn our Sisters viz. Shuah & Rhoda. We 
spent the night on board the Bangor. 


November 

NOV 1st We left the wharf at Portland, at 7 oclock AM. on board the Bangor, Howse Captain. 
The wind that had been blowing for several days caused a high sea, & it still Continued. We had 
not gone far before we came in sight of the waves & breakers mast high. We had a snow storm 
during the day. Most all of us on board were sick: after being tosted upon the sea for eight hours, 
I landed In company with Mrs Woodruff at Owls Head, at 3 oclock PM. Our fare $6. 

I enquired among the Shiping for a passage to Vinalhaven (the Islands). I could find none. I 
called upon several to get conveyance to Thomaston but without affect, & after spending several 
hours in the snow stonn & suspens about getting further, I returned to Mr Paine's tavern whare I 
had left Mrs Woodruff. I retired to the grove, & Knelt down to call upon God in the same place 
whare Elder Hale & myself made prayer & supplication unto God, for deliverance, on the 19th 
Aug. The Lord herd our Prayers then & I believed He would again: & I called upon him to open 
our way. I then returned to the Inn, retired to rest with a determination to trust in God. Distance 
of the day 84 miles. 

2nd We arose in the morning, refreshed by sleep & rest. Mr. Paine conveyed us in his chaise to 
east Thomaston. We soon got passage on board of Capt Wright's Sloop, for the Islands. We left 
the shore <after much suspense> at noon, reached the Island in two hours, & I truly felt to rejoice 


Page 126 




and thank God for the privilege of setting my feet again upon North fox Islands in Vinalhaven, & 
to add to my happiness was accompanied by my companion. 

We walked to Mr Hezekih Eames & dined with him. From thence to Br Just us Eames; & of a 
truth we met a welcome reception, & found all of the Saints rejoicing in God, & strong in the 
faith. We spent the night at Br Eames. 20. 

3rd Spent the day at Br Eames in writing. Had an interview with Mr Sprague. 

4th Spent this day at Br Eames. 

5th Sunday. I preached in the meetinghouse, & had an interesting Prayer meeting, in the evening, 
at Br Justus Eames. 

6 I visited Br Sterretts household. Found them Strong in the faith. I Preached in the evening at the 
West School house. Spent the night at Br Eames. Distans 6 miles. 

7 I held an interesting Prayer meeting at Br Justus Ames. 

8th I Preached at the house of Mr Malatire Luce & Baptized one Person & spent the night at Mr 
Ephraim Luce. 3 miles. 

9th Preached in the East Schoolhouse to a large congregation. Spent the night at Mr Ephraim 
Luce. 3 miles. 

NOV 10th I took the parting hand with Mrs. Woodruff & other friends. Walked to Br Ames. 

From thence in company with Valentine Ames to John Kents. We crossed the thoroughfare to the 
South Island to Mr Isaac Crocketts. I Preached at his house. Mr Crockett in some respects is a 
wonderful man. <1 dreamed a wonderful dream at his house. > In dreams and visions &c. 

Distance of the day 7 miles. 

1 1th Walked from Mr Crocketts to No 2. Visited the Saints. Found them strong in the faith. 
Preached at night at No 2. Spent the night at Mr Charles Brown. Distance of the day 12 miles. 

12th Sunday Preached at No 2 two Sermons & spent the night at Brother Burgess. Distance 4 
miles. 

13th Preached at Mr Anthony Coombs and Baptized two Persons. Spent the night at Mr Coombs. 
3 miles. 

14th Visited many friends. Walked to No 2 through an uncommon snow storm & Preached to the 
People. Spent the night at Capt Benjamin Coombs. 6 miles. 

151 went on board the Susan Eliza with Capt Coombs for the purpose of visiting the Isle of Holt. 
Their was much Snow on board the vessel. We had a fair wind & rough Sea & pleasent over 
head. I arived at the Isle of Holt at 12 oclock and dined with Mr William Barters. I Preached at 
early candle light in the School house. Spent the night with John Turner Esq & I Sold him the 


Page 127 




Book of Mormon. This is the third Island of the Sea that I have visited & Preached to the People 
& left them the Book of Mormon. 12 mile. 

16th I went on board the vessel and fell upon my Knees & prayed for God to have mercy upon 
the People & cause the Book of Mormon to prove a Blessing to the Island. We left Esq Turner's 
wharf on board the vessel at 12 oclock at noon. We were becalmed on the way, and if St. Paul 
rowed hard to make the land in a tempest So did we row hard to make the land in a calm. We 
were eight hours in travling 12 miles and after rowing three hours we reached Capt Coombs at 8 
oclock PM. Distance 12 miles. 

17th Spent the day in visiting friends. Preached at Mr Charles Brown to a large attentive 
congregation from Jer 3 1st ch 22 v. The spirit of God rested upon me. <Spent the night at> C 
<Brown's.> 4 miles. 

18th Walked in company with several frends to Mr Anthony Coombs at Seal Bay. We took a sail 
boat & crossed to the north Island to Br Ames. From thence to Esq Luce whare I found Mrs 
Woodruff. We returned to Br Ames. Distance 12 m. 

19th Sunday I Preached at Br Justus Ames & Baptized two Persons viz <Captain> Valentine 
Ames & Mary Ames. I confirmed three and communed with the Saints. <We will have the prince 
of darkness to command [-] the day. Power [of] darkness fails. > I spent the night at Brother J 
Ames. 

NOV. 20th I Wrote a letter to Elder Don C. Smith at Kirtland. I forwarded him 13 Subscribers 
for the Elders Journal of the Church of Latter Day Saints. I gave an account of 17 members of the 
Church on fox Islands. I also forwarded $10 dollars of Subscription money for the Elders Journal 
from the following persons: Justus Ames $1, Stephen Luce Esq $1, Cyrus Starren $1, Nathaniel 
Thomas $1, Jonathan Burgess $1, Ezekiel Burgess $1, Joshua Calderwood $1, Charles Brown 
$1, John Smith $1, Ebenezar Ames $1. {Also} Isaac Crokett, Anthony Coorobs jr., John Sellers, 
not Paid. 

I also wrote a letter to Sister Sarah Foss & forwarded $6 dollars to her. Spent the night at Brother 
Ames. 


21st Spent the day at Br Ames in writing. Walked 4 miles. 

22 Spent the day in writing. 

23 Walked to Malatire Luce. Returned to Br Ames. I receieved a letter from Elder Benjamin 
Boydstun, from Zion, and four Papers from Kirtland. I was called to visit the Rainbow a vessel 
that dragged her anchors, and was driven on shore among the rock in a heavy gale: She lay upon 
her beams end. I went on board of her in the midst of a hard gale & high seas. Sprays broke clear 
over her. She was in bad Condition: but the exertion of the neighbours soon delivered her from 


Page 128 




danger. 7 m. 

24th Spent the day at Brother Ames. Also the 25th. 

26th Sunday Walked to Br Sterretts. Held a meeting with the Saints, & returned to Br Ames. 
Spent the night. 5 m. 

27th A cold winter morning. I went on board the Essex in company with Mrs Woodruff sister 
Eliza Luce& capt Ames & his Son Valentine, bound for Camden. We left the north harbour at 9 
oclock AM. We had a rough High Sea. Waves broke over the vessel & water run into the cabin. 
Phebe & Eliza was puite sea sick. 

We reached Camden Harbour at noon. We dined with Mr Henry Shermon’s. Walked to Mr Paul 
Perry's & visited the Simonton district & returned to P Perry's & spent the night. Distance 20. 

28th Walked to Brother Ames & Williams Hopkins & in Company with Phebe & Eliza walked to 
the Simonton district. I Preached at night in the School house to a large attentive Congregation. 
We spent the night with Mr Peas. <Distance> 5 m. 

29th Preached at night in the Schoolhouse upon the Book of Mormon. Spent the night at Mr 
Peas. 

Nov 30th Thanksgiving day I Preached in the school house & spent the night with Mr William 
Simonton in company with Mr Farrow a universalest preacher. 

December 

Dec 1st Walked to Mr Ames & Hopkins. Preached in their house at night. Distance 3 miles. 

2nd Preached at Br Ames at night & walked through the mud to Mr Whitleys. 3 miles. 

3rd Sunday Preached in the Schoolhouse two discourses and baptized three Persons & spent the 
night at Mr Peas. 

4th Walked to Camden Harbour & Preached at night in the Masonic Hall to a large 
Congregation of Citizens. <1 suffered much with sore eyes.> I spent the night with C Tilor. 
<Distance> 3 mil. 

5th I had an interesting interview with Mr Simeon Tylor aged 83. He was a Patriot of the 
revolution. He was in the battle at Bunker hill & the taking of General Gates & in other battles 
but was never wounded. Preached in the Schoolhouse in Camden. Spent the night with Mr 
Shennon. Distance of the day 2 miles. 

6 Walked to Camden. Took my leave of Mrs Woodruff and sister Luce who took the Mail boat 
for the Island. I walked to Brother Ames & spent the night. <Distance> 3 miles. 

7th I walked a distance with Br Ames. We had a view of the Sea and a fleet of Sail becalmed, the 


Page 129 




Sun as pleasent as May, & the water as still as if nature had sceased to breathe. We viewed, 
admired, and rejoiced and Parted. 

I walked to the Simonton district. Found the people in an uproar some raging & some believeing. 
I spent the night at Mr John Brown. 3 miles. 

8th I visited Mr Peas. <Found him calm>. I Preached at night in the Ingham School house to a 
large Congregation. I spent the night at Mr Daniel Ames. <Distance> 6 miles. 

9th Spent the night with Mr Robert Harsen. 3 miles. 

10th Preached on Sunday in the Simonton School house to a large Congregation. I confirmed 
three Persons. The Spirit of God rested upon me. I took the parting hand with my friends & 
walked to Brother Ames. 3 miles. 

Dec 1 1th Wrote a Letter to Elder DON C. SMITH & sent him five Subscribers for the Journal 
and $5 dollars for the same for the following Persons: Elisha Grant $1, David Stone $1, Coburn 
Tyler $1, John Brown $1, Robert Harsen $1.1 also gave an account of five-three 111 Baptized 
making the church 17 in all . Since Nov 20th. 

I preached at night in the Mansfield district School house. The Spirit of God rested upon me. 

I spent the night with Mr Comer. I conversed with him & his wife untill 3 oclock in the morning. 
Mrs. Corner was a wonderful Spiritual dreamer. She rehearsed many interesting dreams to me. 3 
miles. 


12th Mr Corner & his wife bid us God speed. I walked to Br Ames. From thence to Camden 
Harbour & Preached at night in the School house. Spent the night at Mr Tylers. 6. 

13th Crossed the Harbour in the Mail boat to North fox Island. I receieved four letters & two 
Papers one letter from Elder A O Smoot under date of far west Mo Sept 23rd 1837, One from 
Elder Jonathan H Hale from Kirtland Nov 18th, One from Elder Nathaniel Holmes or wife New 
Rowley Nov 19th, And the other from Brother Asahel Woodruff Terre Haute Nov 24th 1837. 

I walked to Brother Ames & found friends well. I here saw the first No of the Elders Journal of 
the Church of Latter Day Saints which wanned my Soul. This with my letters made it a day of 
interest to me. I spent the night with Mrs Woodruff at Brother Ames. <Distance> 15 m. 

14 Spent the day in writing at Brother Ames & held a prayer meeting at night at his house. 

15th I Preached in the east School house at candlelight & returned to Br Ames. Distance 7 miles. 

16th I spent the day at Br Ames. 

17 Sunday Preached two discourses at Brother Ames. I spent the night at Br Ames & had an 


Page 130 




interesting time in the evening I blessed two children, & I spake in tongues & interpeted & 
Prophesy'd & we rejoiced. 

18th Spent the day at Br Ames. 

Dec 19th I left Mrs Woodruff at Br Ames and walked in company with Valentine Ames to John 
Kents. We there crossed the theroughfare in a wherry to the south Island. I then took the parting 
hand with Br Valentine who returned home while in the name of Eligah's God I bend my way to 
search out the Blood of Ephraim on South Island. O my God assist me I Pray in this work. I 
walked to Mr Isaac Crocket's & held a meeting at his house & spent the night with Mr Merchant. 
Distance 7 miles. 

20th Spent the morning in clearing away Ice in the long Cove to prepare a Place for Baptizing 
when the tide arose. I accordingly met at 3 PM & Baptized one person and Preached at Mr Isaac 
Crocket's & spent the night. 

21st Walked to Mr John Smith's and Preached in the Schoolhouse at night & spent the night with 
J Smith. 6 m. 

22nd Visited the School in NO. 2 taught by Mr Daniel Luce. I gave an address to the School & 
closed by Prayer. I then walked to Mr Charles Browns Preached at his house & spent the night 
with him. Distance 4 mil. 

23 I Preached at Mr John M Sullers. The Power of God rested upon me. I spoke in tongues & 
Interpeted & some cryed aloud & one wished to be baptized. <Spent the night. Distance> 2 m. 

24th Sunday Preached two sermons in School house NO 2 to a large congregation. Then walked 
to Thomas Arey's 2d. Preached to the People and Baptized two Persons to [w]it Capt Thomas 
Arey 2d & John M Sullers before a multitude. Spent the night with Br Arey 2d. Distance 5 miles. 

25 Christmas Walked in company with Br Arey to No 4th district. Preached in the deep hollow 
School hous to a large Congregation from Acts 13 ch. 40, 41.1 spent the night at Mr James 
Fernal. My soul was vex'd with the wicked procedings of Mr Towl a school teacher in rejecting 
my testimony &c. Distance 5 miles. 

26th Walked to Mr Isaac Crockett's. Preached at his house & spent the night at Mr Merchant's. 
Distance 8 miles. 

27 Baptized two persons in the long Cove at full tide amid the Ice. Walked to Abigah Luce. 
Preached at his house on the Book of Mormon. The spirit of God rested upon me. Distance 3 
miles. 

Dec 28th I spent the forepart of the day in conversation with Mr William Douglass the Methodist 
Priest. He wanted me to work miracles to make him believe. I reproved him for taking such a 
course and left him & walked to N[orth] I[sland] on the neck & Preached in the School house & 


Pagel31 




spent the night at Mr James Babbadge in company with Messrs Robert Thompson Esq. & James 
Thompson from Islesborough long Island. They Invited me to visit them. 

On the same day Mrs Woodruff crossed the Thoroughfare in a boat to the South Island & walked 
the whole length of the Island to Br Burgess. Distance 8 or 10 miles. The greatest Journey she 
ever took on foot. She was much fatigued. 4 m. 

29th I walked from Mr Babbadge to the top of the rock our fonner Place of retirement for Prayer. 
It was a Plesent morning. The Sun shone upon the waters with the briliantsy of a summers day. 
My meditations were sweet although alone. 

After surveying the Islands & Sea a few moments I Plucked a handful of fir from a tree and lade 
it under the pine (whare I had often Prayed in Company with Elder J H Hale. See Sept 5th.) I 
kneel down upon the fir (to keep off from the snow) and offered up the gratitude of my heart unto 
God. 

I went my way rejoicing to Mr Charles Brown whare I found a number of Saints of one accord in 
one place and PHEBE with the rest. I was rejoiced to meet with them. I Preached to a large 
congregation from Ruth 1st ch. 15 16th. We had an interesting time. Several offered themselves 
for Babtism. I spent the night at C Browns. Distance of the day 8 miles. 

30th I held a Prayer meeting at Br Thomas Arey's 2d. We had a spiritual time. I spent the night at 
Mr C Browns. 2 m. 

3 1st On the 3 1st of Dec on Sunday being the last day of 1837 I Preached in NO 3rd district to a 
large congregation upon the Parable of the vineyard. I Baptized two Person in the sea at full tide 
before a multitude. I obtained five subscribers for the Elders Journal. 

The spirit of God is like leaven in the midst of these Islands of the Sea. The solemnities of 
Eternity is resting upon the People. The word of God is like a sharp two edged sword in the 
hearts of men. I am now Preaching & Baptizing almost daily. O may the Lord roll on his work 
amid the Islands of the sea and give me a rich harvest of Souls. 

I spent the night with Mr Charles Brown. Distance of the day 4 miles. 

THUS ends the year of 1837 and the 1st VOL of my Journal. I now find myself upon one of the 
Islands of the Sea in defence of the word of GOD and for the testimony of JESUS CHRIST, in 
company with (PHEBE) my companion whom God hath given me for a bosom friend & a 
helpmeet. I marvel & can exclaim like one of old, "great and marvelous are thy works "O LORD 
GOD ALMIGHTY" when I consider his ways with the children of men, esspecially when I 
consider his dealings with myself. The Past year hath been the most intersting part of my life in 
many respects. The account of my procedings during the year 1837 may be found on the 
following Page, and a continuation of my travels in the ministry will be recorded in my Journal in 
the 2nd VOL. 


Page 132 




{ 


IN 1837 


I attended the solemn assembly and met twenty times with the quorum of the seventies. 

I traveled in Upper Canida and in six of the United States and visited three Islands of the Sea 
making a distance in all of two thousand three hundred & fifty Miles. 

2,350 miles 

I held one hundred and eight meetings. 108 

/I planted three churches./ 

I Baptized twenty one persons. Three were Sea Captains and three were kinsfolks. I was a partner 
with Elder J H Hale in baptizing nine others. 

21 

/I Confirmed 30/ 

I attended two conferences and jointly ordained nine Elders nine Priest eleven Teachers and five 
Deacons. 34 

I Procured twenty three subscribers for the Elders Journal. 23 

I Sold eight Books of Mormon. 8 

There was five cases of healing under my hands. 5 

I blessed two children. 2 

I wrote thirty Letters. 30 

I received thirteen Letters. 13 

I recorded two of Joseph Smith Sermons. 

========================= } 


{ 


A synopsis of this volume 


IN 1834 I travled 1,238 miles. 

IN 1835 I travled 3,248 Miles, Baptized 43 persons, Held 170 meetings Procured 20 subscribers 


Page 133 





for the Latter Day Saints Messenger & Advocate & 2 for the reprinted Star. Also 70 Signers to 
the petition to the Governour of Missouri for redress of wrongs done the Church by the Jackson 
County mob. Wrote 18 letters Ordained 2 Teachers and 1 Deacon held 3 debates and had 3 mobs 
rise against ME. /Planted 3 Ch. Confirm 35./ 


IN 1836 I traveled 6,557 miles, held 153 meeting attended 4 conferences held 4 debates and 
Baptized 27 persons Ordained 2 Elders 3 Priest 1 Teacher and 2 Deacons, Blest 19 Children. 4 
persons were healed under my hands in the name of JESUS CHRIST. I Procured 22 Subscribers 
for the M & Ad & $70 for the same. Also Procured $91 for building the house of the LORD in 
Kirtland. Wrote 34 letters & received 7 letters. I had 3 mobs rise against me. /Planted 1 ch. 
Confirm 27./ 


IN 1837 I attended the Solemn assembly. I met 20 times with the quorum of the seventies. I 
traveled in upper Canida & in six of the United States also visited three Islands of the Sea 
making a distance in all of 2,350. 1 held 108 meetings. I Baptized 21 persons. Three were Sea 
Captains & three were kinsfolk. I was a Partner in Baptizing 9 others. I attended 2 conferences & 
jointly Ordained 9 Elders 9 Priest 1 1 Teachers & 5 Deacons. I Procured 23 subscribers for the 
Elders Journal and sold 8 Books of Mormon. There was 5 cases of healing under my hand. I 
blessed 2 Children. I wrote 30 letters & received 13 letters. /I recorded 2 of Joseph’s Sermons./ 



Click to view full size image. 


Page 134 






THE SUM TOTAL 


I traveled 13,395 miles held 431 meetings and Baptized 91 persons. I met 20 times with the 
Seventies. I attended 1 Solemn assembly and 6 Conferences. I visited the Canidas and 15 of the 
United States & 3 Islands of the Sea. I Ordained 1 1 Elders 12 Priest 14 Teachers & 8 Deacons. I 
blessed 2 1 children. There was 9 Cases of healings under my hands. I procured 67 subscribers for 
the Latter Day Saints Papers & 70 Signers to the Petition to the Governour of Missouri. I 
Procured $91 for the house of the Lord. I held 7 debates. I wrote 82 letters. I received 20 letters. I 
had 6 mobs rise against [me] but from them all the LORD delivered me. Confirmed 92. /Planted 
7 eh. esstablished 20 preaching places. Recorded 2 of J. S. Sermons./ 


} 


{ 


APHEK WOODRUFF’S FAMILY RECORD 


/ Ozem 90 ye/ 


/Medad/ Names / Elijah/ Born 

Married 

Died 

/First Gen. Woodruff lived nearly 100 years./ 



/2d Gen. Eldad Woodruff 175 1 


1806=55 y/ 

Aphek Woodruff 

Born Nov 11, 1778 

/Aged 

May 28 [1]961/ 

/3d Gen 


826 M 

82 y 6 m 

Bulah Thompson 

Born 1782 

/Nov. 29, 1801 

June 11 1808 26/ 


Was Married 

/Nov. 29, 1801 

Aged 26/ 

Azmon 

Born Nov 29, 1802 

/86 x 

Jan 14 1889/ 

/4th Gen 


[.] M 15 D/ 


Ozem Thompson 

Born Dec 22, 1804 



Willford 

Born March 1, 1807 

April 13, 1837 


Azubah Hart 

Born july 31, 1792 


/59 years/ 

Married to Aphek Woodruff 

Nov 9, 1830 

/March 20 1851/ 

Philo 

Born Nov 29 1811 


Nov 25 1827 16 

Asahel Hart 

Born April 11, 1814 


Oct 18 1838 24 

Franklin 

Born March 12, 1816 


June 1st 1816 

Newton 

Born June 19, 1818 Drowned 

sept 1920 2 

Julius 

Born April 22, 1820 Died 


Eunice 

Born June 19, 1871 

/Aug 4, 1841/ 

June 15 1853/ 




/Aged 32 years/ 

{5th Gen} Sarah E. 

Woodruff July 14, 1894 


July 17 1840 2/ 


} 


Page 135 




{====================== 

EZRA CARTER’S FAMILY RECORD 


Names 

Born 

Married 

Died 

Age 

1st Daniel Carter Born in Newbury Port, Mass, the second Gen. from England 


Ezra Carter /2nd Gen/ Feb 20th 1734 


April 29, 1818 

84 

Phebe Whitemore 

April 1736 


June 1826 

84 

Joshua Fabyan Esq 

March AD 1742 


June 20, 1799 

57 

Sarah Fabyan 

April 9th AD 1740 


Aug 29 AD 1820 

80 

Ezra Carter /3d Gen/ 

March 18th AD 1773 

Oct 2d 97 

/March 10, 1868 

95/ 

Sarah Fabyan 

April 8th AD 1775 

Oct 2d 1797 

/July 21 1845 

70 

Joseph Fabyan [..] 

Dec 11, AD 1798 

Jan 9 1829 



/4th Gen/ 
Sarah Bracket 

Sept 30 AD 1800 

Nov 1 182[3] 



Ira 

Sept 19, 1802 


Jan 21, 1805 111 1.3 m 

Ezra 

April 29 1804 

Nov 4, 1834 



Ira 

Nov 23 1805 


Jan 2, 1806 lm 9D 

Phebe Whitemore 

March 8 1807 

Apirl 13, 1837 



Rhoda Farnum 

March 13 1809 

Nov 12 1839 



Ira 

Oct 20 1810 


Jan 24 1811 3m 4 D 

Shuah Coffin 

Dec 20 1811 




Mary Fabyan 

March 22, 1814 




Ilus Fabyan 

Nov 8, 1816 





/ Bulah Agusta Woodruff July 19 1851/ 
/ Married to Sidnay Fb Boutie June 30, 1 868/ 
/ Phebe Eleanor Oct 8, 1864 9 oclok/ 


=========================} 

Lorenzo Snow Married Phebe Amelia Woodruff 

Daughter of Wilford & Phebe W. Woodruff 

Lorenzo Snow bom April 14, 1814. Married April 4, 1854 

Names Births Marriages Deaths Age 

Mary Amanda June 1st Sept 5, 1860 1 day 

Sept 4th 1860 
Wilford Feb 7th 

Leslie 1862 


Pagel36 




Woodruff 

Orion 

Milton 

Phebe Agusta 
Florence 


1 1 oclok P.M. 

Sept 6 1865 
Feb 9, 1868 
40 M past 2 oclock PM 

Aug 7, 1870 


Wilford Married Emily Jane Smith Oct 12 1867 
Lucy Emily Bom Jan 10, 1869 

Wilford Sept 25 1871 

7 oclock P.M 


Elias Smith Dec 15 1873 

20 minutes 
Before 10 oclok PM 
/As[ahel?]/ March 30 1876 

6 oclok AM 


{= = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = 
WILLFORD WOODRUFF’S FAMILY RECORD 


ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ&&&& Note ( 1 1 ) 




Names 

Born 

Married 

Died 

Age 

Willford Woodruff 

March 1 1807 

April 13 1837 



/4th Gen/ 




ns/ 

Phebe W. Carter 

March 8 1807 

April 13, 1837 

/Nov. 10/85 

/6M/ 

Sarah Emma /5 Gen/ 

July 14th 1838 


July 17 1840 

2 Y 3 D 

Willford Owen /Jr/ 

March 22d 1840 




Phebe Amelia 

March 4th 1 842 

April 4th 1850 



Susan Cornelia 

July 25th 1843 

Jan 30 1859 



Joseph 

July 18th 1845 


Nov 12 1846 

1 Y 4 M 

Ezra 

Dec 8th 1846 


Dec 10th 1846 2 Days 

Shuah Carter 

Oct 28 1847 


July 22 1848 

9 M 

Bulah Augusta 

July 19, 1851 




Aphek 

Jan 25, 1853 


Jan 25, 1853 

3 hours 

/Ozem Woodruff 

Nov 3d 1789 

1818 



Hannah Hart 

March 20 1799 





Page 137 


Samuel Woodruff 1777 

Phebe Amelia Married April 4, 1859 

Eldad Woodruff B. 1816, D Nov 1881x65/ 


Dec 1869 


92 


=========================} 

Sarah Brown was Born Jefferson Co in Henderson New York Jan 1 1834. 
Sarah Brown Daughter of Henry & [ ] Brown 

Married to Wilford Woodruff sen March 13 1853 


Names 
David Patten 

Born 

April 4 1854 

Married 

Died Age 

Brigham Young 

Jan 18th 1857 

Aged 20 y 

drowned June 16 1877 

Phebe Arabella 

May 30 1859 

June 14 1875 

JH 

Sylva Malvina 

Jan 14 1862 
Born at 3 oclock 



Newton 

Nov 3d 1863 



Mary 

Oct 26 15 M [.] 18 1867 



Charles Henry 

Dec 5 

1 oclock P.M. 1870 


Feb 2d 1871 Near 2 Months 
2 oclock AM 

Edward Randolph 

Feb 2d 

6 oclck P.M. 1873 


Feb 8th 1 1 oclock 6 days 
1873 


Emma Smith was Born at Diahman Davis County Missouri March 1st 1838 

Emma Smith Daughter of Samuel & Mohecla Smith Married to Wilford Woodruff sen March 13 

1853 


Names Born Married 

Hiram Smith Oct 4 at 4 oclock 

PM 1857 


Emma Manella July 4 1860 

Asahel Hart Feb 3d 1863 15 

minutes to 7 oclock A.M. 


Died Age 

Nov 24 1858 1 year 1 M 
20 days 


Anna Thompson April 10, 1867 

30 M. to 6 P.M. 


April 11, 1867 7 Hours 15 Minutes 


Clara 


July 23, 1868 


Pagel38 




Martishia 


1 5 Minut 8 oclck 


Abram Owen 

Nov 23 30 M to 
11 PM. 1872 


MoQ 7 All OA 
1 V 1 Cl 1 y TlTTCv 

Wineford 

Blanch 

April 9 1876 
10 m to 12 oclk 
at night 


Mary Alice 

Jan 2d 1879 at 5:30 PM 


Robert Sholes /Born Nov 19 1835/ Married To Susan Cornelia Woodruff 

Daughter of Wilford & Phebe W Woodruff Jan 30, 1859 


Names 

Eugenia Amelia 

Births Marriages Deaths 

20 minuts to 3 oclock /Nov 3 1883/ 

Mar 21st 1860 

Age 

Phebe Carter 

Oct 6 1862 


Robert 

Dec 1st 1864 


Wilford 

Woodruff 

Sept 26 1867 
39 M pst 8 oclok 


George 

Nov. 19 1869 

March 23 1876 12 oclock Noon 


Born 

[Bu]lah Augusta Married S. H. Beatie June 30 1868 
[..]oke Elisnor Born Oct 8, 1869 

[Prjeston Carter Bom Dec. 7, 1871 at 30 Minuts past 4 oclk AM 
Died/6 oclok AM/ Jan 26, 1872 Age 1 Month 19 day 

Died 

Wilford 

Florence 

22 Dec 1872 

march 20, 1876 20 m pst 1 1 AM 



Estella 

Sarah Delight Stockings Daughtar of John & [ ] Stockings was married to Wilford Woodruff 

sen July 31, 1857 

/She was born in Canton Hartford Co Connecticut July 28 1838/ 

Names Births Marriages Deaths Age 

Marion June 1st 1861 

Emeline July 25 30 m past 

9 PM 1863 


Page 139 




Ensign 

15 minuts to 3 oclok 
Dec 23 1865 



Jeremiah 

29 Aug 1868 

Dec 16 1869 

1 year 3 Months 
17 days 

Rosana 

4 ock PM April 7, 
1871 

Oct 22d 1872 
8 A.M. 

1 year 6 Months 
5 days 

John L. 

3 oclk Aug 14, 1873 



Julia 

7 oclok AM June 28 
1878 




Rebeca Brown born in vinal Haven Maine Oct 30, 1826 
Sealed to WW Died Aug 1839 Aged 13 year /June 15 1807/ 

Mary Webste[r] Giles Born /About 1806/ in Boston Mass sealed to W.W. March 28 1852 Died 
Oct 3d 1852 Aged about 52 yearsNote(12) 

On the 26 Febuary 1857 The following Persons were sealed to W Woodruff at the Alter in the 
Endowmt House By Brigham Young: 

Phebe Whitmore Carter 
Mary Fabyan Carter Deceased 
Emma Smith 
& Sarah Brown. 

Sarah Delight Stockings was sealed to W Woodruff at the Alter in the Endowmt House July 31, 
1857 By Presidet Young. 

Mary Giles Webster, Daughter of Samuel & Elizabeth Giles bom in Marblehead Essex County 
Mass. Sept 6, 1803, Sealed to W. Woodruff March 28, 1852. /Also at the Alter Endmt House, 
June 15 1867/ Died Oct 3d 1852 Aged 49 years. 

Eunice Woodruff sealed to WW June 15 1867 

Wilford Woodruff Jr Born March 22/40 Married Emily Smith Born [ ] Died May 8. 1878 

Their Children: 


Lucy Emily Bom Jan 10 1869 
Wilford 3d Born Sept 25, 1871 
Elias S Born Dec 15. 1873 
Asahel Bom March 30, 1876 
Emily Died 


Page 140 




Married Julia Spences May 18 1879 
George Born March 1, 1880 
Died Sept 22, 1881 
Born March 15 1882 
at 5 Minuts to 1 oclok 


see July 23d 1835 
Stenography Note( 1 3) 


Henry A. Woodruff Son of Azmon and 
Harriet Woodruff Bom [ j 
Married Emma Manella Woodruff 

She was bom July 14th 1860 at S L City. 


Names 

Births 

Wilford 

Azmon 

Jan 29 
1880 

Henry 

Eugene 

Aprail 6 
1882 at 
10:5 PM. 

Asahel 

R 

Sept 15 
1884 

Emma 

Eslotta 

Jan 31 
1887 

Ethel 

Winefred 

Jan 20 
1889 

Elsworth 

Dec 20 
1891 


{ 


Marriages Deaths 


Vol. 1 


Age 


Pagel41 




/I confirmed 35, esstablished 8 preaching Places, Planted 3 Churches./ IN 1835 I travled 3,248 
Miles, Baptized 43 persons, Held 170 meetings, procured 20 subscribers for the Latter Day 
Saints Messenger & Advocate and 2 for the reprinted Star. Also 70 Signers to the Petition to the 
Governour of Missouri for redress of wrongs done the Church by the Jackson County mob. 
Wrote 18 Letters. Ordained 2 teachers and 1 deacon. Held 3 debates, AND had 3 mobs rise 
against ME. 


IN 1834 I travled 1,238 miles. 


IN 1836 I travled 6,557 miles, Held 153 meetings, Attended 4 conferences, and held 4 debates, 
Baptized 27 Persons, Ordained 2 Elders 3 Priest 1 Teacher and 2 Deacons, Blest 19 children, and 
healed 4 Persons by the laying on of hands in the name of JESUS Christ. Procured 22 subscribers 
for the M & Ad, and $70 dollars for the same. /Confirmed 27, esstablished 2 Preaching places 
planted 1 Church./ <1 gave six adresses> Also procured $91 dollars for building the house of the 
LORD in Kirtland. Wrote 34 Letters and receieved 7 letters, and had 3 mobs rise against me. 


In 1837 I attended the solemn assembly. I met 20 times with the quorum of the seventies. I 
traveled in Upper Canida & in six of the United States also visited three Islands of the Sea 
making a distance in all of 2,350 miles. I held 108 meetings. I Baptized 2[.] persons. 3 were sea 


Page 142 






Captains & 3 relatives. I was a partner in Baptizing 9 others. I attended 2 conferences & jointly 
Ordained 9 Elders 9 Priest 1 1 Teachers and 5 Deacons. I procured 23 subscribers for the Elders 
Journal and sold 8 Books of Mormon. There was 5 cases of healing under my hands. I Blessed 2 
children. I wrote 30 Letters & receieved 13. Confirmed 30. Planted 3 Churches. 

WW = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = WW 

WW = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = WW} 


{ 


Preface 


========================= } 

My Parents were bom and bred in the town of Farmington Hartford County Connecticut. My 
father Aphek Woodruff was the son of Eldad Woodruff. My mother Bulah Thompson was the 
daughter of Lot Thompson all of Farmington Con. The occupation of my father was a miller 
from his youth. I was bom in the North part of the town of Farmington (now called Avon) 
Hartford County Connecticut on the 1st of March AD 1807. 1 was the third son of my father and 
the last born of my mother who Died June 1 1th 1808. My father married Azubah Hart for his 
second wife NOV 9th 1810. 

I followed the occupation of my father viz. a miller untill the Spring of 1832 at which time I 
moved to the town of Richland Oswego County NY. and purchased a farm in Company with my 
eldest brother Azmon Woodruff and we resided together untlll the Spring of 1834. 

I was early taught by my step mother and other friends, also by the word & Spirit of God that the 
Church of Christ was in the wilderness that there had been a falling away from pure & undefiled 
religion before God and that a great change was at hand. 

At the age of 23 I resolved by the grace of God assisting me to be led by the word & spirit of God 
into that tmth that maketh free thereby. On hearing the fulness of the everlasting gospel 
proclaimed by the Latter Day Saints I immediately embraced its tmths with a glad heart and after 
being baptized and receieveing the laying on of hands for the reception of the Holy Ghost by 
Elder Zerah Pulsipher I was ordained a Teacher under his hands on the 2nd of Jan 1834 in 
Richland Oswego Co NY. On the 5 th of Nov 1834 I was ordained a Priest under the hands of 
Elder Simeon Carter by the-direction of the High Council in Clay County Missouri. 

On the 28th of June 1835 I was ordained an Elder in the Church of Latter Day Saints under the 
hands of Elder Warren Parrish at Eagle Creek Benton County Tennessee: and in the Same house 
on the 3 1st day of May 1836 I was ordained unto the High Priesthood and as a member of the 
Second Seventy under the hands of Elders David W. Patten & Warren Parrish, this by the 
direction of the Presidency of the Church in Kirtland Ohio. 


Pagel43 




On the 3rd of Jan 1837 I was ordained a member of the puorum of the first seventy Elders as 
special witnesses to all nations under the hands of President Zebedee Coltrin, in the house of the 
LORD in Kirtland Ohio. The above ordinations were by the Spirit of Prophecy and Revelation. 

On the 4th of April 1837 I receieved the ordinance of washing under the hands of President 
Joseph Young: and the ordinance of anointing under the hands of Zebedee Coltrin in the house of 
the Lord in Kirtland. On the 6th of April I received the ordinance of the washing of feet under the 
hands of Elder Heber Kimball during the Solumn assembly in the house of the Lord. 

On the 13th of April 1837 I was Joined in the bonds of matrimony to Phebe W Carter bom in 
Scarborough Cumberland County Maine the 8th of March 1807. The ceremony was Solemni z ed 
by President Frederick G. Williams in the house of President Joseph Smith Jr. in Kirtland Ohio. 
We were blessed by the Patriarch Joseph Smith sen. 

On the 15th of April I received a Patriarchal Blessing under the hands of Joseph Smith sen. the 
Patriarch of the Church of Latter Day Saints. Phebe W Carter received a Patriarchal Blessing 
under the hands of Joseph Smith sen. on the 10th of Nov AD 1836. These Blessings are recorded 
in the Latter Day Saints Church Records also in the 1st VOL of Willford Woodruffs JOURNAL. 

On the 26th day of April 1839 on the corner stone of the house of the Lord at far west Missouri I 
was ordained under the hands of the Twelve to take the Bishopprick and Apostleship of one of 
the Twelve that had fallen & to become one of the quorum of the Twelve Apostles & special 
witnesses to all nations both gentile & Jew. 

{ ========================= 

The First Book of Willford Vol. 2 for 1838 

January 


========================= } 

JAN 1st 1838 I Willford am now standing upon one of the Islands of the Sea in defence of the 
truth and for the word of GOD and the testimony of JESUS CHRIST. I am in North America 
North Lat 44, West Long 68 46 South Fox Islands Vinalhaven Maine. I am labouring in the 
ministry alone at this time. I am blessed, however, with the company of Mrs Phebe W Woodruff 
my Companion & friend: O may the LORD bless us in all righteousness. O may the God of 
Abram Isaac & Jacob stand by me and give me many souls as seals of my ministry during this 
year. May HE enable me to go and come at his bidding & keep his commandments in all things. 

I have been declairing the word of God faithfully through these Islands for many days and the 
Spirit of GOD is like fire, in a dry stubble, among the People. Prejudice is rolling away like a 
torrent & GOD is manifesting his work in mighty power. 


Page 144 




I spent this NEW YEARS DAY in the following manner: I visited the Saints & neighbours & 
found the Solemnities of Eternity resting upon the People some crying what shall I do to be 
saved? I met a Congregation at Capt Charles Brown at 2 PM. I led three Persons down into the 
sea & Baptized them which were two Sea Captains and one lady viz. CAPT Charles Brown, 
CAPT. Jesse Coorobs & his wife. We had an interesting time in the Confennation. After meeting 
in company with Mrs Woodruff I rode in a wherry by watter to Brother Thomas Arey's 2d & 
spent the evening with a number of the Saints in reading, Singing, and Prayer. Distance of the 
day 7 miles. 

2nd Rode by water with Mrs Woodruff to Capt Benjamin Coombs. Spent the day at his house. I 
receieved a Present from the Saints of $ 10. 1 spent the night at Mr Coombs. 

3rd I spent the day at Capt Coombs in writing my Journals. I also Wrote a Letter to Elder Don C 
Smith in Kirtland. I sent him five subscribers for the Elders Journal viz. Abram Carver, Thomas 
Arey 1st Thomas Arey 2d Ebenezar Arey, Jabez Myrick, & I enclosed in the letter $15 dollars to 
be divided in the following manner: $1 credited to each of the above subscribers $1 to John M 
Sellers & the other $9 dollars to Pay my Due Bill to William Marks in the hands of W A. 
Cowdery. Note(14) 

I also wrote a Letter to Elder Milton Holmes. Spent the night at Capt B Coombs. 

Jan 4 I Wrote a Letter to Aphek Woodruff in fannington Con. 

5 I Wrote a Letter to Asahel Woodruff. I rode in a Wherry across the Bay in company with Mrs 
Woodruff & spent the night with Mr Thomas Arey 1st. Wrote a letter to Aphia Woodman. 

6 I returned in the wherry to Capt Coombs & receieved two letters one from A H Woodruff & the 
other from Sarah B Foss. I wrote a letter to Elder A O Smoot. Spent the night at capt Coombs. 

7 Sunday I walked to the Schoolhouse NO 3 and Preached to a large Congregation. I attended a 
Prayer meeting at night at Brother Charles Brown, & Spent the night with Br Jesse Coombs. 
Distance 5 mi. 

8 I sent five letters to South Vinalhaven Post Office by Br Jesse Coombs. Spent the night with Br 
Burgess. 2. 

9 I walked to Mr John Smith's & Spent the night at his house. I wrote a letter to Br Justus Ames. 

2 . 

101 walked to Mr Joseph Sylvester's & spent the night at his house. Distance 1 mile. 

121 Preached at Mr Anthony Coombs & spent the night at his house. I Spent the 1 1th day at 
David Smiths. 

131 walked to Br Burgess, to Br Brown's to Mr John Smiths. From thence to Joseph Sylvesters 


Pagel45 




& crossed to the North Island to visit the Saints & also an Elder of the Church of Latter Day 
Saints who had come to labour with me in the ministry by the name of JOSEPH BALL. I visited 
Br Sterrett. Walked from thence to Brother J Ames. I there found Elder Ball. I had a Plesent 
interview with him. He had Baptized six Persons viz. Malatire Luce Ruth Luce, Stephen Luce 
Esq Nathaniel Thomas Susan Thomas & Nancy Kent. I spent the night at Br Ames. Distance of 
the day 12 miles. 

14 Sunday I held a meeting in company with Elder Ball at Br Ames. We had an interesting time 
in communing with the saints. After meeting we walked to Br Stephen Luce. From thence to Mr 
Ephraim Luce. We Prayed with his sick child. From thence to Maltire Luce and spent the night. 4 
miles. 

151 walked to Br Starrett's. I wrote a letter <for Brother Malatire Luce>. We held a meeting at Br 
Starrett's. Elder Ball took the leed of the meeting, and while he was speaking to our edification a 
canon or swivvle was discharged near the house on the sea shore and was soon followed by the 
discharge of small anns. 

He soon closed and I arose. The spirit of God rested upon me. I declared the word of God to the 
people in great plainness. My words were at times mixed with the report of musketry that were 
echoing outside of the house. I was Plain in declairing to the people the judgments of God. I 
shook my garments in the presens of the people & informed them that I was clear of their Blood. 

I asked if any wished to receieve the gospel & two arose to Be Baptized. We closed the meeting 
after the evening had borne its report to heaven we blessed three children of Br Sterrett' s and 
spent the night with him. <Distance> 4 miles. 

16 We met a company upon the beach near Br Starrett's to administer in the ordinance of 
Baptism. After Singing a hymn I led a man down into the water and Baptized him & as on the 
night before so on this occasion our ears were saluted with the report of fire arms. O when will 
the earth rest from wickedness and pollution men learn righteousness & satan know the length of 
his chain? 

We walked to the east school house to hold a meeting. Elder Ball arose & opened the meeting & 
commenced preaching. A mob of the baser sort soon appeared & began to disturb the meeting by 
walking across the house & talking, whistleing, Singing, dancing, &c. I followed Br Ball and 
closed amid much confusion. We walked to Mr David McMullen’s & spent the night. Distance 3 
miles. 

17 We walked to Br M Luee's & to Br Ames. We learned that Notices were posted up in noted 
places warning us to leave the town but we concluded it best to obey GOD rather than man so we 
continued in our Masters business. Walked to Br Nathaniel Thomas'es & held an interesting 
prayer meeting. Two offered themselves for Baptism. We receieved the 2nd No of the Elders 
Journal. It did our souls good. I conversed untill 2 oclock with Br & Sister Thomas. Distance 5 
miles. 


Pagel46 




18 Walked to Br Malatire Luce. Elder Ball Baptized three persons, & we held a Prayer Meeting 
at night. 3. 

19 Walked to Br Justus Ames & to John Kents. Crossed the Thoroughfare. Walked to <Cap.> 
Isaac Crocketts & held a meeting at his house. I arose to speak & the Power of God rested upon 
me. I Prophesied of the judgments of God & spoke in tongues & interpeted the same. Elder Ball 
spoke to us in the spirit of God. Two offered themselves for Baptism. We spent the night at Mr 
Crocketts. Distance 8 miles. 

20 Early in the morning I Baptized two Persons viz Capt Isaac Crockett & William Merchant. 

We then walked to Mr John Smith’s whare I again met Mrs Woodruff. We spent the night at Mr 
Smiths. Distance 8 m. 

2 1 Sunday Met a large congregation in No 2 for a meeting. Elder Ball addressed the people. I 
followed him. <The spirit of God rested upon me to a great degree [with power?] on the people.> 
We held a prayer meeting at Br Charles Brown's. I spent <the night with> J Arey. 2 m. 

22 I visited Br Thomas Arey 2d. He had broken his leg yet he was resigned to his affliction. After 
praying with him we walked to Capt Benjamin Coombs & spent the day in writing. 3 miles. 

23 Walked to Mr Joshua Calderwood & spent the day. 1 mile. 

24 Walked to Br Thomas Arey's 2d. Preached at night at Mr J Calderwood. <Distance of the 
day> 4 miles. 

25 Spent the day in visiting the Saints and attended a prayer meeting at Br Sullers. 3 miles. 

26 I accompanied Elder Ball & Br C Brown on to green Island bar & we dug a quantity of clams 
which we made in to a Clam Chowder & it was a delicious feast. We spent the night at Mr 
Ebenezer Arey's. 3 m. 

27 Walked to Capt Benj. Coombs & spent the day in writing. I wrote a letter to Father Ezra 
Carter. 

28 Preached on Sunday in No 2 Schoolhouse & returned to Capt Benj. Coombs & spent the 
night. 3 miles. 

29 Walked to Mr John Smith. From thence to Joseph Sylvesters with Mrs Woodruff. From 
thence in Company with Elder Ball to Br William Merchant’s & we found him, his wife & Sister 
Crocket in a perilous Situation. There hath a lying spirit gone out into the world & it hath entered 
into the Priest of Baal as well as the multitude & Mr Douglass the Methodist Priest had visited 
the three mentioned persons & reported that I utterly denied the Bible & said it could not be 
depended upon. This with many other fals reports set them against me in spirit but after teaching 
them concerning the evil spirits &c we had Prayers. Brs Valentine Ames & I Crocket were with 
us. We had a good time. Brother & Sister Merchant & Sister Crocket became more calm & began 


Page 147 




to be deliverd from the devil. Spent the night at Br Merchant's. Distance 10 mile. 

30 Walked to widow Hopkins & spent the night. We Preached to several strangers. 3 mile. 

3 1 Walked to Br Crocket's. I had a serious interview with Mr Douglass. He stated things that 
were utterly fals. He rejected our testimony in every respect & is striving to overthrow the saints. 
Preached at Br Crockets. 3 miles. 


February 

Feb 1st I repaired in company with Elder Ball to a stream of water. We their Clensed our feet 
with pure water and bore testimony unto God through Jesus Christ against Mr Douglass the 
Methodest Priest for rejecting our testimony & offending our little ones. This is the third witness 
borne to heaven against that man. O God reward him according to thy Mercy, Judgment, Justice, 
& Truth. 

We call upon Br & Sister Merchant & found them possessing a good Spirit. Walked to Capt 
Watson Hopkins & Preached <Christ and him crucilicd> at his house. Although many 
entertained fears that we Should be mod’d we had a good time & still meeting. Spent the night at 
his house. Distance of the day 3 miles. 

We saw a sign in the heavens. It had the appearence of a full Moon about ten feet under the Sun. 

2 Left Capt Hopkins & as we walked by the Schoolhouse No 5th the children came out and 
hooted & mocked at us as they did Elisha when they said go up thou bald head. As with the 
Parent so with the child. We walked to Joseph Sylvester's. I here found Mrs Woodruff. We spent 
the night. 5 miles. 

3 Walked to Br Burgess & spent the night. 2 miles. 

4 Sunday I met with the Saints at Br Charles Brown & broke bread unto them. This is the first 
time I have Communed with the Saints on South Vinalhaven. We had a good time. We walked to 
Joseph Sylvesters and spent the night. I blesed their son by the name of Wilford W Sylvester. 5 
m. 

5 Mrs Woodruff & myself in company with Elder Ball, Sylvester & David Smith took a whirry to 
go to North Island. We started at Seal Bay & landed at Deacon James Thomas on North Island. 
We dined at Mr Thomas. I had an interview with Mr Thomas Fry. We walked to Br Justus Ames. 
Found the Saints strong in the faith. I receieved a vary interesting letter from Elder J H Hale. It 
contained interesting News from Kirtland & Zion. Spent the night at Br Ames. Distance 8 mile. 

6 Spent the day at Br Ames in writing. } I wrote a letter to Elder J H Hale & Don C Smith. I sent 
him one subscriber for the Journal Sarah Glover & $2 dollars, $1 for Sarah Glover & $1 for 
Anthony Coombs jr. I appointed two conferences in the letter. I walked to Perez Babbage Esq 
& spent the evening. Held a meeting at Br Ames. 


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Feb 7th Spent the day at Br Ames in writing. 

8 Spent the day in visiting friends and held a prayer meeting at Br Sterretts. Returned to Br 
Ames. 7 m. 

9 } I Wrote a letter to Sister Rhoda Scareman and sent her $5 dollars. Spent the night at Br Ames. 
101 spent the day at Brother Ames in writing. 

1 1 Sunday Walked to Br M Luce and Preached at his house. Then returned to Br Ames & held a 
prayer meeting. 4 mil. 

121 spent the day at Br Ames. 

13 We walked to Mr Kents. Crossed the thoroughfare. We had a tedious walk to Mr James 
Crocketts in consequence of our assisting a man in carrying his trunk's for 2 1/2 miles through 
the snow after his neighbours had left him alone in trouble like the man that fell among thieves: 
When we reached the Mail boat we were quite exhausted. We crossed the bay to Camden, & then 
walked to Br Ebenezer Ames. 20 miles. 

14 We spent the day at Br Ames. <We heard that Kirtland was in difficulty.> 

15 We walked to the Simonton district and had a happy interview with Br James Townsend 
direct from the Saco church. Our harts were made glad. We preached in the Schoolhouse. I spent 
the night with Mr Brown. 3 miles. 

16th I left the Simonton district in company with Elder Ball & J. Townsend. We repaired to a 
grove and held a Council and the Holy Ghost said seperate unto me James to the ministry. So we 
ordained Brother James Townsend unto the office of an Elder. We had a good time & the spirit 
of God rested upon us although we were alone in a grove surrounded by a snow storm. We then 
walked to Br Ames. We had an interesting time in the evening in speaking our feelings to each 
other. Distance of the day 3 miles. 

171 took the parting hand with Elder Ball as he was about to return to the Island, and then started 
in company with Elder J. Townsend for Searsmont. The roads were drifted with snow & the 
people were fearful we could not get through, but we went forward in the Lord. The winds were 
high & the air was filled with snow. We broke the roads for 7 miles. 3 of it was across a pond. 

We arived at Searsmont at 2 oclok PM & spent the night at Mr Hues Richards & was kindly 
entertained by him. 7 miles. 

18 Sunday The wether more plesent. I Preached on the Book of Mormon. We dined at Levi 
Gray's. Elder Townsend and myself had an interesting time in secret Prayer in a snow bank. I 
Preached again upon the gospel. The spirit of God rested [upon] me. We spent the night at 
Joseph Hardy's. 8 miles. 


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Feb 19th An uncommon blustering day. The air is full of snow and roads blocked up. We spent 
the day in visiting the people. They appeared believing. We started to go to our appointment at 
the Schoolhouse and we had to wallow about a mile through the snow drifts without a road. I 
froze one of my ears during the time. After Preaching to the People we returned to Mr Robert 
Baily's and spent the night. <Distance> 4 m. 

20 Elder Townsend is 30 years of age this day. We visited Deacon Cox & other neighbours. I 
Preached at night at Mr. Bailey's on the reign of Christ and was bless'd while speaking. Spent the 
night at Mr Baileys. 2 m. 

21 Spent the day visiting friends. We Preached at night in the schoolhouse. I Preached at night 
upon the parable of the vineyard by the Prophet Zenas. I had an interesting time in speaking and 
after we closed the meeting at half past 8 oclock I walked out of the house & cast my eyes 
towards the heavens & a glorious scene presented itself to our view. 

} } I light commenced in the NE. & spread to the W. & soon rolled up over head & also in the 
south & it centered in the heavens & rolled forth fire blood & smoke like contending armies: the 
whole heavens was illuminated with blood & fire for the space of half an hour & shook like a 
fowl upon the wing. It seemed at times as though the veil was about to rend in twain <and the 
throne of God to appear>. It appeared as though the elements were contending with each other. 

We were travling through deep snow drifts most of the time during this sceneery. This is one of 
the signs in the heavens in the last days spoken of by the ancient as well as modern Prophets. O 
may God hasten the day when the scenerry will be wound up. Spent the night <with> J. Kimble. 

2 m. 

22 Took the parting hand with the friends in Searsmont & walked to Belfast Pop 4,000, & after 
being rejected by eight households we were kindly receieved & entertained by Mr Thomas 
Tapply. 15 m. 

23 Visited the village of Belfast & many of the principle men. We procured a place for preaching 
& according to appointment we met several hundred Citizens in the brick Schoolhouse. I 
preached to them on the gospel. They manifested a desire to hear further upon the subject & they 
wished to purchase the Book of Mormon. We spent the night with Mr Tapply. 

During the day we repaired to the sea shore & clensed our feet with pure water & bore testimony 
against eight housholds before God who had rejected us or turned us from their Doors the 
evening before. 3 miles. 

Feb 24 We walked from Belfast to Northport and was kindly entertained at Mr Benjamin 
Stephens. } I wrote two letters one to Sister Townsend & the other to Elder Milton Holmes. I 
preached at early candlelight in the schoolhouse at Northport upon the Book of Mormon. Spent 
the night at Mr Stephen's. Distance 4 miles. 


Page 150 




25 Sunday Preached at the schoolhouse. In the forenoon Elder Townsend Preached. I followed 
him. This was his first discours. I preached again at night to a large congregation who listened 
with profound attention. The people treated us with great respect and kindness. We spent the 
night with Capt Jeremiah Knowlton's. 2 miles. 

26 Left Northport in good feelings & spirit, & walked to Belfast. From thence to Fra nk fort and 
was kindly receieved for the night by Mr James Tibbetts. Distance of the day 20 miles. 

27 Elder Townsend Preached at Mr Tibbetts. I followed him. I also preached in the school house 
at night & delt with the people in great plainness. We spent the night with Mr Tibbetts <who is 
of the blood of Ephraim and full of faith>. 

28 Walked to Hampden. Attended a protracted meeting of the Baptist. We spent the night with 
Mr Elisha Grant who married sister Eliza Luce who had manifested her faith by her works. I 
found her strong in the faith. 10 mi. 


March 

March 1st This is my birth Day. I am 3 1 years of age. We left Hampden and walked to the City of 
Bangor Pop 10,000. We visited Mr Haywood the City clerk & Gen Isaac Hodsdon & other 
Citizens & appointed a meeting in the City Hall. We met according to appointment. I preached 
upon the authenticity of the Book of Mormon & left another appointment. We spent the night at 
the Mansion House Sandfords Inn. Distance of the day 8 miles. 

2 We spent the fore part of the day in wandering over the City of Bangor. We were the first 
Elders of the Church of Latter Day Saints that had visited the City or lifted a warning voice to the 
people. We were as great strangers in the citys of the Gentiles as Abram, Isaac, & Jacob were in 
their day. <It was truly a gloomy day to our souls. > We attended a court in the City Hall in the 
afternoon. We met a Congregation of Citizens at the hour of appointment. I Preached upon the 
first principles of the gospel <of Christ> and the people listened with attention. We spent the 
night at the Merchants Exchange. 

3rd <1 purchased Phebe a pair of silver spoons which cost six dollars and 8 cents. I could exclaim 
when I left the city of Banger like David: The Lord has delivered my soul from the hands of 
wicked men.> We left the City of Bangor and walked to Hamden and Preached at night in the 
Schoolhouse at the lower comer. We spent the night at Mr Elisha Grants. Distance of the day 6 
miles. 

4 Sunday Preached two discourses in the Univeralest Chapel. Spent the night with Mr Grant. 

<The fear of man bringeth a [-]. Leam wisdom.> 

March 5th We left Mr Grants & walked from Hampden to Buxport. From thence to the 
Penobscot <road with [-]> Faraham. 25 m. 


Pagel51 




6 Walked to Castene & took passage on board the Two friends with Capt Carlton. We were 
becalmed on the way & Capt Carlton with Brother Townsend & myself entered the small boat in 
order to row to the shore. Distance was 5 miles. After rowing about half way the wind arose, & 
the vessel that we had left overtook us and we again went on board of her & reached Capt 
Carlton's house at 8 oclock PM & spent the night with him. <Distance> 35 m. 

7 Preached in the schoolhouse & spent the night with capt Carlton /at the Isl of Holt/. 3 miles. 

8th Left the Isle of Holt. Went on board of the Mail boat clinton capt Sawyer at 2 oclock & 
reached north fox Island at 4 oclock. We then walked to Brother Sterretts. From thence to Br M 
Luce. I here had the glorious privilege of again meeting with the saints for prayer & Praise to 
God my Companion with the number. 

After meeting Mrs Woodruff presented five letters to me. One was from my Parents in 
farmington ct. one from Brother Asahel I[a?] & two from Elder Milton Holmes in Mass & the 
last from Elder Robbins from Kirtland. 

These letters contained much news esspecially the one from Kirtland. It informed me that trouble 
had come upon them. Numbers had been cut off from the church for transgression. Their is 
divisions among the people. The printing Office is burned to the ground with all its contents of 
Books worth about $1,500 dollars. Warren Parrish and others that had been cut off from the 
Church were Joining with the world to injure the influence of the Saints. Joseph & Sidney had 
gone to the far west with their family & the faithful are to follow them for Kirtland will be 
scorged. Often have I herd Joseph Prophecy of these things for a year past. O God deliver the 
honest in heart & faithful I Pray. 

I spent the night with Br Luce. Distance of the day 18 m. 

9 I spent the day in writing. } I Wrote two letters one to the Bishop & Presidency in Zion & the 
other to Elder M Holmes in Mass. We spent the night at father Luce. 

10 ^ I wrote two Letters one to Brother Asahel H. Woodruff & the other to sister Sarah B. Foss. 

I I Sunday I attended a meeting at Brother Justus Ames and a prayer meeting at night. Returned 
to M. Luce. 4 m. 

121 Met the church at Father Luce in the evening to lay before them the situation of the Church 
in Kirtland. We had a good meeting & these things did not move the faith of the Saints. They 
were ready to meet it. 

13 Spent the day writing in this Journal & held a meeting at Mr Benj. Stones. 

March 14th Walked to the post Office & returned to Father Luce's & spent the night. Distance of 
the day 10 m. 


Page 152 




151 held a prayer meeting at Mr Ebenezar Carver's & spent the night at father Luce. Distance 4 
miles. 

161 walked to Br Starretts & spent the night. I found them in affliction. I prayed with them <and 
laid on hands>. 3 miles. 

171 spent the day in visiting friends & the night with Br M. Luce. Distance 6 miles. 

18 Sunday I Preached at Father Luce's & also in the evening. 

19 Walked in company with Mother Luce & Mrs Woodruff to Benjamin Stone. From thence to 
wid[ow] Veril's also to Mr Ebenezer Carver's. We spent the night at his house. I receieved a letter 
from Sister Hale. Distance 4 miles. 

20 Walked to Mr David McMullen & spent the night at his house. 2 miles. 

21 Walked to Brother David Stones & spent the night at his house. Elder J. Ball left the Island 
this day to return to his friends in the city of Boston. I am now left to labour again alone upon 
these Islands. 

22 We walked to Br Starrett. In the afternoon Br Starrett & myself at a low tide went on to a bar 
to dig some clams. Sister Stone & Mrs Woodruff came out to see us dig the Clams & while we 
were busily engaged in this employment the tide arose & flowed between us & the shore & we 
were under the necessity of wadeing across the water ourselves & carrying the women to the 
shore in an arm chair. And after concluding we should not forget the place we returned to the 
house with our Clams. We had a Prayer meeting at night at Br Sterrett. 2 miles. 

23 Spent the day at Mr Benjamin Kents & the night at Br Starretts. 2 miles. 

24 I wrote a letter to } Br & Sister J. H. Hale at Kirtland. There is great excitement throughout 
the USA Concerning the death of Mr CILLEY a representative in congress from Thomaston state 
of Maine who was killed in a duel on the 24 of Feb by Mr GRAVES of Kentucky also a member 
of the Same body. Mr Cilley was shot through the heart with a rifle on the fourth fire at the 
distance of eighty yards. Congress is in uproar & finally the whole nation is in trouble. The hand 
of God is resting upon her because of the wickedness of the people. Bloody wars & sore distress 
are at the doors of America & the faces will all soon gather blackness because they have polluted 
this goodly land & all the judgments will soon come upon you O ye proud gentiles that the Bible 
& Book of Mormon declare against you. 

25 Sunday Preached at Br Starrett' s & had an interesting Prayer meeting at night. 

March 26 Walked to Mr John Smith. From thence to Br Ames & spent the night. I was quite 111. 
The destroyer made a severe attact upon me & I had a sick night. Distance of the day 3. 

27 I arose quite 111 & spent the day at Br Ames. I walked at night to Mr John Kents & Preached at 


Pagel53 




his house. 3. 


28th } } } I receieved three letters two from our friends in Scarborough & one from Elder 
Jonathan H. Hale from Kirtland. Br Hale letter was Dated March 6th & it was a letter of great 
interest. It contained an account of the Saints leaveing Kirtland for the land of Zion & of the 
judgments of God that were comeing upon Kirtland & also upon the whole land. 

He sent me the counsel of the Presidency of our quorum which was to teach the Saints upon the 
Islands of the sea to immediately sell their property & prepare themselves to go to the land of 
Zion which is a place of safety & deliverance that they may escape the just judgments of God that 
are at the doors. 

I also perused the late Papers of the day. Found that all things indicate that great trouble is at the 
doors & that the Lord is nigh at hand. Both the signs in heaven & on earth are visible in 
fulfillment of the word of God. 

I walked to Br Ames & spent the night. Was still quite unwell. Distance 4 miles. 

29 I arose quite weak. My Bowel complaint continued. Spent the day at Br Ames. Was not able 
to attend the meeting. Spent an ill night. 

The LORD is manifesting his work in great condescension & mercy to the Blood of Ephraim & 
honest in heart upon these Islands of the sea both by dreams & vissions, signs, healings & 
wonders. One remarkable circumstance that happened on this day I will mention as follows: 

Mr Ebenezar Carver had been earnestly investigating the subject of the gospel as we set it forth & 
while desireing that he might know the truth of it he walked to the sea shore desireing that he 
might have some sign and while the word of God was for him to meditate upon that there should 
no sign be given but the sign of the Prophet Jonas on a sudden their was a large fish arose on the 
water in the sea at a distance from him & suddenly sunk out of sight. He much desired to again 
see the sight. Immediately the fish again arose on the top of the water accompanied with another 
fish of the same specie & size & one of them swam on a strait line on the top of the water 
towards Mr Carver as he stood upon the beach. When the fish Came as near his feet as the water 
would permit him the fish looked at the man with a Penetrating eye as though he had a message 
for him. He then returned to his mate in the Ocean & swam out of sight & Mr Carver returned 
meditating upon this strange sight & sign & the wonderful condescenscion of the Lord. 

It is worthy of remark that this was at a season of the year when fish of that size is not known 
upon these shores or coast & they never at any season of the year are known to come ashore as in 
this case. Mr Carver had dreams at night to Confirm him that these things was a sign to him. 
Great & marvelous are the works of the Lord. 

30 I was still sick in the morning. I had Prayers & was much better <after my wife laid hands on 
me and asked the Lord to heal me>. I walked to Br Malatire Luce & spent the night. I warned Br 
Luce to Prepare himself & family for Zion. 3 miles. 


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3 1 Walked to Mr Ebenezar W. Carvers. Found his wife confined to her bed with a fever. I 
Prayed for her & she was healed. I spent the night at his house. Distance of the day 3 miles. 

April 

April 1 Sunday I Preached to a large congregation at Mr Carvers. The spirit of God rested upon 
me & I was strengthend in body & mind. After meeting I baptized Mrs Mary Carver in the same 
place whare the fish before spoken of came to Mr Carver. 

We had an interesting Prayer meeting in the afternoon. Many were believing. The solemnites of 
eternity rested upon the People. I walked to Br Ames & spent the night. 3 miles. 

2 I spent the day at Br Ames in writing. 

3 I walked to Br Nathaniel Thomas's & returned & spent the afternoon at Mr Josiah Devrage & 
the night at Br Ames. 3 m. 

4 This was an interesting day to my feelings for I have laboured hard for the temporal as well as 
spiritual salvation of the Saints upon these Islands. I have faithfully exhorted them to sell their 
property & gather with the Saints to Zion according to the commandments of God that they may 
stand in Holy places while judgment works, & Brother Justus Ames has this day sold his farm & 
others are striving to follow his example for we see perilous times have come. I walked to Br 
Thomas'es with Mrs Woodruff & spent the day & returned at night. 2 mi. 

5th *(15) The worst difficulties in the saints warfare are perils among & from fals Brethren. I 
walked to Mr John Kents store & Post Office & he Presented me with a letter containing two 
sheets from Mr Warren Parrish at Kirtland Ohio who had been an Elder in the Church of Latter 
Day Saints & had travled with me in the ministry many miles. He had now made ship reck of 
faith was cut of from the church & he with some others in like circumstances are now making 
every exertion against us & the cause, & the letter alluded to was teeming with falshood against 
Joseph & the Church. 

0 Warren Parrish how art thou fallen. Thy fonner letters will stare thee in the face make thee 
blush & pierce thy soul. The letter is believed by our opposers & causes persecution to rage. 

1 had a Prayer meeting at Br Ames. 4 miles. 

April 6th This is the day for the annual Solemn assembly of the Saints in Zion or her stakes. May 
God bless the Saints in every condition. Walked to Br Maltire Luce & spent the night. 3 miles. 

7 I walked to Mr Ephraim Luce. From thence to Br Stephen Luce & after reading Singing & 
Prayer I Baptized two persons Mr Ephraim Luce & Margarett Crockett. I confirmed them by the 
laying on of hands. Sister Harriet Luce was healed of sickness by the laying on of hands in the 
name of the Lord. 


Pagel55 




I then walked to Mr Ebenezer Carver's & notwithstanding the spirit of the Devil was stired up in 
the hearts of the People anew caused by the letters of Warren Parrish yet I Preached the word of 
God to the People & Baptized Mrs Abigal Carver. She was rising of 70 years of age & had not 
been to a neighbours house for six years. But on this occasion she went with fortitude & boldness 
to the sea shore & was baptized & returned strengthened in body and mind. I left them in the 
spirit of God & walked to Br Justus Ames & spent the night. 8 miles. 

8th Sunday I Preached at Br Ames. We had an interesting Prayer meeting Also. Sister Eliza 
Grant was Present. 

9 Spent the day at Br Ames <packing a while with Phebe>. 

101 held a counsel with the brethren at Br Ames. 

I I Spent the day at Br Ames. I was privileged on this day of once more striking hands with some 
of my beloved Brethren from wholrn I had long been seperated Viz Elders Milton Holmes & 
James Townsend and Priest Abner Rogers. They had come to attend the conference with me 
upon these Islands of the sea. We spent the night at Br Ames. How sweet it is for Brethren in 
tribulation to meet together & bear each others burthens. 

12 Walked in company with Br’s, Holmes, Townsend, & Rogers to Br Stephen Luce & Ephraim 
Luce & held a meeting at night at Br Maltire Luce & had a good time & gained victory over the 
power of the devil for he has come to fox Islands having great wrath. The devil fell upon one 
sister as if to devour her at once but by Prayer & faith she was saved from his grasp. I returned to 
Br Ames & spent the night. 6 miles. 


CONFERENCE 

Minutes of a conference of Elders met agreeable to appointment at the house of Brother Justus 
Ames on North Fox Island Vinalhaven Maine on the 13th of April 1838. Elders Present: Willford 
Woodruff, Milton Holmes, & James Townsend also Priest Abner Rogers. 

Elder Willford Woodruff was called to the Chair and Brother Stephen Luce was chosen 
Secretary. The Chainnan opened meeting by Prayer & represented the North fox Island branch 
containing 25 members in good standing also 3 members in camden. Elder M Holmes 
represented the New Rowley Branch containing 1 1 members in good standing. 

The Chairman made some remarks concerning the order of the call to the ministry after which 
Brother's Nathaniel Thomas & Stephen Luce was reccommend to be ordained to such offices as 
the spirit should direct and after receiving the full vote of the Church they were ordained under 
the hands of Elders W. Woodruff & M Holmes. Nathaniel Thomas was ordained to the office ol 
a Priest and Brother Stephen Luce to the office of a Teacher. 

We then recieved several interesting exertations from the Brethren in the ministry which was 


Pagel56 




followed by the testimony of a goodly number of brethren & sisters & after adjurning untill the 
next day at 1 oclock PM. Elder M Holmes closed by Prayer. 

14th Met agreeable to adjurnment and Elder James Townsend delivered a discourse upon the first 
principles of the gospel & was followed by Priest Abner Rogers. 

15th We again met according to appointment on Sabbath morning & herd a vary able & edefying 
discours delivered by Elder Milton Holmes from Luke 17 ch 26 to 3 1 verses. Was followed by 
Elder Woodruff. After an intermission of half an hour we again met together and addressed the 
Church. Elder Holmes addressed the saints clothed with much of the spirit & broke bread unto 
them. We felt strengthend & found it good to meet together. 

After meeting we walked to Br Starretts & I baptized one person viz Sister Sarah Stone. We had 
a good time in the Confennation. We then walked to Brother Malatire Luce & had an interesting 
prayer meeting. We were Clothed with the spirit of God & had a victory over our enemies. I 
returned in company with several saints from the south Island to Br Ames & spent the night. 
Distance of the day 8 miles. 

<This day I have passed through tonnent since the Lord will have a tried people. The [-] of [-] 
with their false reports have sinned. The people and also some of the Saints are doubting the 
faith. Friends amaze us. They [— ] on North Island. There is several on both Island very weak in 
the faith but the Lord’s supported me through these trials and blessed be his name.> I will trust in 
the Lord forever. 

161 wrote a letter for Sister Pease. I took the parting hand with Elders Holmes & Townsend & 
Priest Thomas. They went over to the South Island to Prepare the church for the conference & to 
strengthen the weak. For when persecution comes many faint by the way. O may God have mercy 
upon Judah, Israel, Jacob, Zion & Jerrusalem. 

The Brethren got quite wet with the spray from the sea while crossing the thoroughfare. I spent 
the day at Br Ames. I assisted Mrs Woodruff in aranging her trunk & other things that she might 
be Prepared to leave the Islands on the morrow to return to Scarborough. We spent the night 
together at Br Ames <for the last time>. 

April 17th } *(16) I walked in company with Mrs Woodruff to the thoroughfare & assisted her in 
going on board the mail boat bound for Camden that she might there take the steem boat Bangor 
to Portland. She went on board the mail boat at 8 oclock AM in company with Sisters Whitley & 
Pease & Brother Ebenezer Ames with some other company. I here Parted with Phebe & retired 
from the abodes of men & commended her to God. O Lord preserve her from hann, accident, & 
danger, & give her health and Peace I pray. May she return in safety to her friends. 

After I saw the vessel with her canvass spread bear my companion a way oe’r the billows of the 
deep I returned alone to Brother Ames meditating upon a Pilgraim's life. I had an interview with 
Brother Rogers. He informed me he was about to return to his family & Church in New Rowley. 


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I walked with him a mile on his way as he was going to take boat to leave the Island we knelt 
down by the way side & commended each other unto God & took the Parting hand. 

0 who knows the feelings of men that are called to testily against the wickedness of the People & 
stand in defence of the word of God & bear Perils together of many kinds & the worst of all such 
as come from fals brethren of those that make shipwreck of faith such as Warren Parrish & John 
Boyington & others that have done me much evil by sending letters from Kirtland to these 
Islands Protesting against & condemning the faith once deliverd to the saints which we advocate 
& which they once strongly advocated themselves. But the Lord reward them. I returned to Br 
Ames. Distance 6 miles. 

181 walked to John Kents & returned to Br Ames. 4 miles. 

191 walked to Mr John Smiths & crossed to the neck on the South Island in a boat. After loosing 
my way & wandering a while I took a road & walked to Br Charles Browns. From thence to Br 
Sullers & attended a Meeting. Br Holmes Preached. I followed him. I returned to Br Browns & 
spent the night. Distance 13 miles. 

1 walked to the top of the granite rock whare Elder Hale & myself have visited freequently. I 
again bowed down & probably for the last time upon this place & offered up my prayers unto the 
Lord. 

20 I met in council with the Church & Elders. I taught the church Plainly & warned them to flee 
to Zion. I spent the night with Br Thomas Ary. 2 miles. 

April 211 wrote two letters one to Mrs Woodruff & the other to Elder Nathaniel Holmes & spent 
the night with Capt Benj. Coorobs. 2 miles. 

22 I Preached to a large Congregation of Gentiles that were filled with unbelief hardness of heart 
& manifested malace against me & the cause which I advocated. But notwithstanding their 
indignation I bore my last testimony unto them of the fulness of the everlasting gospel that God 
hath brought forth in these last days. Elder Townsend followed me in testimony amid the folly of 
the multitude. 

In the afternoon we met with the church & Communed with them. May the Lord have mercy 
upon the Saints & deliver them from Babylon & her sins & plagues. I visited several saints in the 
evening & saw some of the world that manifested much hardness. Spent the night with Br Jesse 
Coombs. I herd Br Jonathan Burgess relate an interesting vision. 3 miles. 

23 I took the parting hand with the Saints & walked in company with Elders Holmes & 

Townsend to Br Crockett's. From thence to the thuroughfare. We crossed to the North Island & 
walked to the house of Br Ames. 12 miles. 

24 I spent the day in visiting the Saints & the night with Br M. Luce. Distance of the day 4 m. 


Pagel58 




25 I visited the Saints from house to house & Prayed with them that they might be strengthend 
for earth & hell is stired up against them & we have perils from & among fals brethren. 


I receieved } two letters one from Camden & the other from Elder Ball in Holiston. Elder Bali's 
letter contained intelligence of Interest concerning Elder P. P. Pratt's labours in the City of New 
york that the work of God was rolling on in Power in the midst of opposition. 

I spent the night at Br Justus Ames. Valentine was at home <[—]>. 8 miles. 

26 I spent the day in visiting the Saints with Elder Holmes. We had an interesting Prayer meeting 
at Br M Luce. The Spirit of God rested upon us while we were delivering this our last address to 
these Saints upon the Islands of the Sea. For it was manifested unto us by revelation that it was 
our duty to take a western mission & leave the Islands for a season for they had been faithfully 
warned, the line drawn, the saints sought out, & the enemy combined in secret places against us 
& would take our lives if in their power. 

We walked to Br Ames & spent the night. We felt as though the powers of darkness was great 
among the gentiles upon every side of us both on the Islands & maine land & that the people 
were deluged in unbelief. 5 mi. 

O how ignorant the gentiles are of the literal fulfillment of the word of God such as the gathering 
of Israel the fall of Babylon & the reign of Christ notwithstanding their boasted knowledge. 

April 27 We purposed to leave the Island but satan hindered us. We spent the night with Br M 
Luce. 3 miles. 

28 We took the parting hand with the saints at Br Malatiah Luce & left the Island in the morning 
in an open sail boat in company with Priest Thomas & Br M Luce. The wind being against us we 
had to row hard for 6 miles against wind & water & tide. We then Changed our Course to the 
SW. & hoisted one Sail. This with the help of our oares gave us more speed & after rowing & 
sailing 20 miles we landed at Owls Head about noon. We here took the parting hand with the 
Brethren & walked to Thomaston & continued our journey through Warren, waldoborough & 
spent the night at Damariscota Mills. Distance 40 miles. 

29 <Monday> We arose in the morning & persued our journey. We passed through Sheepscott, 
wisscassett, Bath, Brunswick & spent the night in Freeport. We both suffered much during this 
day's walk with blistered feet & weary limbs but we felt it was for Christ's sake & the gospels & 
did not wish to to murmer. 40 m. 

30 We arose in the morning quite sore & lame. Yet we walked to North Yarmouth, Stephens 
plains, to Portland, & Scarborough & arived at Father Carters at 4 oclock PM. Distance of the 
day 30 mil. 

We suffered considerable during this day's walk for our feet were badly blistered. I had the happy 


Page 159 




privilege of again meeting my friends & spending a night beneath a father's roof in company with 
my companion whome I found in good health & spirits with the rest of the household. 

May 

MAY 1st I spent the day at father Carters in writing this journal. 

2 } I wrote a letter to Br Asahel Woodruff. 

3 } I wrote a letter to My Parents in Farmington Con. 

4 I rode to Saco & spent the day at Mr Luther Scamman's a Brother in law. From thence I rode in 
company with Elder M Holmes to Buxton & again spent the night in company with Elder James 
Townsend. At his house he informed me of the state of affairs in kirtland which information he 
receieved from Kirtland by Mr David Woodman who had just returned from that place. He 
informed us that a Steam Boat passed through the streets or town of kirtland in open day which 
was seen by some & herd by many. It created some alarm & is looked upon as a sign or warning 
to the people. Distance 12 miles. 

May 5 We rode to Sister Sarah Foss. Walked from thence to father Carter's & spent the night. 10 
miles. 

6 Sunday Spent the day at father Carters. 

7 I took the parting hand with Mrs Woodruff & Father Carter & family & left in company with 
Elder Milton Holmes. We travled to Saco 5 miles, to Kenebunk 9, to Wells 4, to York 13, then 
proceeded 4 miles further & spent the night. Distance of the day 35 miles. 

8th We walked to the navy yard at Portsmouth N.H. & spent several hours visiting it which was 
an interesting sight. We had a view of the war ships, the cannon, the balls, the shot &c. We 
visited one frigate of 60 guns & one Ship a man of war of 120 guns. I paced her upper deck & 
found her to be 14 rods in length & 3 rods in wedth at midship & about 90 feet in hight. We also 
visited the building containing her spars & rigging. I should judge her anchors would weigh two 
tons each. O how many inventions man hath sought out to shed the blood of his fellow man. We 
then walked to Newburyport (Essex County) Massachusetts. 20 miles. From thence to 
Georgetown formerly New Rowley Essex County Mass & spent the night at father Nathaniel 
Holmes. 35 m. 

9th We walked to Rowley to Mr Burbanks. I there perused a letter from Viana Jaques from the 
City far west. It contained many important things concerning the Saints. We returned to Br 
Holmes & had an interview with Elder Joseph Ball. We spent the night at father Holmes. 
Distance 4 miles. 

10th I took the parting hand with Milton father Holmes & family & walked in company with 
Elder Ball to Salem pop 15,000. 17 miles. After visiting this town whare numbers were executed 


Page 160 




after being accused of witchery this in the early days of the settlement, we then walked to Lynn 5 
miles pop 10,000. 

We spent the night with Mr John Alley. We had an interesting time together. He conversed freely 
with me & wished like a father to give me some advise which he did & it met a welcome 
reception which was as follows: to always keep the outward as well as the inward form in the 
Spirit of God & to be dictated & approbated of him in all that we do. Distance 22 mile. 

1 1th *(17) This is a day to be remembered by me because of the great variety of events that 
transpired with me. No day of my life was ever attended with more of a change of circumstances 
& places which my eyes beheld & ears herd & heart felt than on this day. 

I arose in the morning refreshed by sleep & took breakfast with father Alley. Sister Alley was 
rather low in her mind but I endeavoured to comfort her in the gospel. We took a farewell of 
them & walked to Chelsea. 

From thence to Charleston. We here visited the Bunkerhill Monument & walked upon the 
entrenchment that was flung up by our brave fathers during the night before that memorable 
battle that was fought upon Bunker Hill. But the roar of Cannon & clash of arms had long since 
ceased & the green turf was now trod in safety & the sound from the populous City of Boston 
was now echoing through the air while our fathers sleep in peace. 

We had a view of the Navy yard as we passed along. From thence we entered the City of Boston 
being the first day my eyes ever beheld its welth or my foosteps ever trod its streets. I spent 
several hours in visiting this City which Contained a pop of about 100,000 inhabitants & also as 
near beautiful & well furnished market probably as any in America. We visited the state house 
which was splendid. 1 walked to the Cupalo & had a fair view of the whole City. I walked around 
the Commons which was enclosed with an Iron railing of about 2 1/2 miles in length. 1 visited the 
Tremont House the most noted public house in the City & also the Shiping. 

We dined at Mr Thayre's in Belknap Street upon a rich Salmon. We visited several of the Saints 
in the City during the day. We also visit South Boston & had a fair view of the splendid Mount 
Washington House a place of entertainment for gentlemen who wish to retire from the bustle & 
noise of the City. I next walked over the long bridge to Cambridge. From thence to Cambridge 
point. 

I went to the goal in order to have an interview & to comfort Elder Albert P. Rockwood who had 
been cast into prison by his enemies for debts in order to trouble and distress him. When I arived 
at the prison the Jailor pennitted me to enter into the room whare he was & it was truly a happy 
meeting. For althoug we were strangers after the flesh yet we were united in the Spirit. 

This was the first time I ever entered into a prison to see an Elder of Israel but after the keeper of 
the prison doors had turned the key upon us & left us together to comfort each other in the midst 
of Iron grates & bars I began to inquire into the state of his mind and it gladdened my Soul to 


Pagel61 




find him strong in the GOD of Abram Daniel & Eligah. He was rejoicing in God Contented in 
his mind & strong in the faith once deliverd to the Saints. Brother Rockwood had the Bible, 

Book of Mormon P. P. Pratts voice of warning & the Evening & Morning Star as his companions 
which he constantly read. 

We conversed together about three hours in this solitary abode & our souls were made glad. He 
informed me of many things that had transpired while he was there in gaol & among the variety 
he made mention of the goal taking fire a few days previous to my visiting him. He said this 
looked sumthing like a dark hour. The fire was roaring over his head while a scene of uproar 
confusion & distress was upon every hand. Engines were rapidly playing around the building 
water pouring into every room the people hallowing in the streets the prisoners crying for mercy 
to be let out lest they be consumed in the fire. One of the number was strugling in the agonies of 
death while others were cursing & swearing &c. Br Rockwood said he felt composed through the 
confused scenery untill the fire was extinguished & silence once more was known in the gaol. 

Elder Rockwood was writing his life while in this state of confinement. He sent a roll of the same 
by me to his wife in Holliston. 

At half past 8 oclock PM the Jailor came & unlocked the prison doors & I took the parting hand 
with this worthy Brother while he manifested much Joy for my visit. Well whose soul would not 
be cheered to have a friend visit them while cast into prison? I left him in good spirits & bent my 
way back again to the City of Boston. 

While crossing the long bridge on my return I herd the cry of fire, the ringing of Bells, the ratling 
of the engines. I soon beheld the flames begin to illuminate the City. It was however extinguished 
in half an hour by the flood of water that was poured in upon the fire from the engines. 

I then Crossed into the City & being alone & a stranger & in the darkness of the night I lost my 
way in the midst of the City. But after wandering a while I called into Myrtle street No 9 & I 
there found Elder Ball with a company of Saints in a room occupied by Sister Vose. All were 
patiently waiting for me. It was a happy meeting. Notwithstanding it was late in the evening I 
spent a season in teaching them the things of God. I then left these sisters who are patient in 
tribulation & walked with Elder Ball into Butoph street No 12 whare Elder Ball resides with his 
Mother. We here spent the night which ended this day of variety. * * (18)Distance of the day 25 
miles. 

May 12th I spent the fore part of the day in visiting different parts of the City. I saw many 

Curiosities and vanities from different parts of the world 1 visited South Boston in the 

afternoon & spent a part of the day in writing. 

We again met the Sisters of the Church at the house of Sister Vose on Myrtle street No 9 to speak 
unto them the words of life. We had an interesting time & felt refreshed by the spirit of God. I 
then returned & spent the night with Elder Ball. Distance of the day 6 miles. 


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13th Sunday After hearing of several distressing Steamboat disasters which shows that the 
destroyer is riding upon the waters, I read an account this morning in the Boston daily news of a 
great destruction in Europe by water. The letter was dated Berlin. The substance of the account 
was that the waters had rolled beyound there bounds & overflown the order & in less than 1 5 
minutes rising of 70 towns were wholey inundated & destroyed. Surely the word of God is 
fullfilling the sea troudied & waves roaring. 

I spent a short time in the morning in visiting the Roman Catholic Church. They were attending 
their morning meeting when I entered the house. After visiting the house & beholding their 
Priest Images & mockery & see them use their Holy water I left the house disgusted with their 
religion. 

I met with Elder Ball & the Saints in the fore part of the day at Sister Vose's room to convers 
upon the things of the Kingdom. We again met with them also a small congregation of citizens at 
the same place at 3 oclock PM. & I spoke unto them from Peter 1 eh 20, 21. The Saints appeared 
edefyed & the minds of some enquiring. A certain Physician by the name of Salmon S Wilder 
manifested great firmness in the cause. After meeting I walked to Mr Thayre's in Belknap street 
& took supper with Sisters Vose & Holman. 

We again met the Saints in the evening & had an interesting time in speaking of the goodness of 
God & breaking bread unto the Saints. The spirit of God rested upon us & our souls were 
edefyed & the sisters manifested their faith & strength in the work of God in which they were 
engaged & notwithstanding some had taken great advantage of their liberality yet they had not 
lost confidence in God or his servants & their charity was manifested towards us. We took the 
parting hand with these Saints of God & again spent the night with Brother Balls friends. 3 miles. 

May 14th We left the City of Boston & walked to Cambridge. Passed through Brighton, Newton, 
Needham & Framingham. From thence to Deacon John Haven's in the edge of Holliston & spent 
the night beneath his roof in company with several of the Saints. Sister Rockwood was present. 
We found her enjoying her mind & appeared reconciled to the will of God while her husband 
was in prison. 

When we arived at Deacon Haven, I had the privilege of reading P. P. Pratt's Pamphlet in answer 
to Mr LaRoy Sunderland pieces in the Zions Watchman against the Book of Mormon & Parley's 
voice of warning. I never was more edefied in reading a Pamphlet than on this occasion. He does 
justice in exposing the lies of Mr Sunderland & also utters an important prophecy upon the head 
of Mr Sunderland & also against the paper styled Zions watchman. Distance of the day 30 miles. 

15 We walked from Brother Joseph Palmer to Holliston & spent the day at Br Newel Nurs & 
Preached at night at his house. We enjoyed ourselves well with the Saints. Distance 6 miles. 

16 Walked to Br Palmer's & preached at night at his house. The spirit of God rested upon me & 
we had a good time. After meeting we walked to Elder Nurs & spent the night. Distance of the 


Page 163 




day 10 m. 


17 Took the parting hand with the houshold of Elder Nurs & walked from Holliston, to Franklin, 
to Wrentham, to Pawtucket & to Providence {RI}. This is the first time I was ever in the State of 
Rhode island. This the sixteenth state I have visited in my peregrinations. {Sixteen States}. 
Distance from Holliston to Providence 32 miles. We went on board the steemer Rhode island at 
half past 4 oclock PM. for New York City. We called at North point. Distance 1 40. 

18 We passed by Levy Island also through Hurl gate. We had a view of Blackwells Island & of 
the New prison at 6 oclock had a view of Williamsburg & Brooklin. I had a splended view of the 
shiping at New York. The spars stood as thick as a forest for miles. We landed at the Battery & 
castle parden at 7 AM. Distance 100 mile. The whole distance from Providence to NY 209 miles. 

This is the first time mine eyes beheld the preat city of New York the largest City in America & 
the fourth upon the globe. Pop 300,000. We spent several hours in traveling in the midst of this 
great City in search of some of the Saints. We finally found a Brother David W. Rogers & his 
household who were Saints dwelling in Greenwich street corner of Spring street No 5 15. We 
were truly rejoiced to find a Saint in the midst of such a City. We dined with these friends. 

From thence we walked to Hamersly Street No 26. 1 there found Elder Orson Pratt & his family. I 
was truly edefyed to again meet with this Brother. I also found another family of Saints residing 
in the same house viz. Lucian R. Foster. I spent the remainder of the day conversing with Brother 
Pratt upon the things of the kingdom. 

We met at early Candle light in Varrick street to hold a meeting & the congregation was principly 
composed of Saints as there had been about one hundred baptized & many of them were present. 
Elder Eligah Fordham was with us also. I was called upon to Preach to the people. I arose & 
addressed the Saints & the Spirit of God rested upon me & I was much Edefyed. The Saints were 
noble & strong in God. We spent the night with Brother Rogers in Greenwich street. 

May 19th I walked to Elder Orson Pratts & took breakfast with Brother Foster. I prepared 1 doz 
of Parley's Pamphlets & forwarded them to our friends abroad. I had a Plesent walk with Elders 
O. Pratt & E. Fordham. I also visited Mr Pratt & his family a native of England but had now 
become a citizen of NY. His wife & daughter were Saints & both sick. We prayed with them & 
laid hands upon them & they receieved a blessing. They reside in Watts street. We purchased a 
card of Gillotts Steel pens represented as being the best in use. We next visited Brother Parker in 
King Street No 327. We then returned to Br Fosters in Hamersly Street No 26. 

I accompanied Brother & Sister Foster in the evening to market & it was a peculiar scene to me. 

It put me in mind of the merchandize of Babylon that the Revelator John spoke of. The market 
was one universal mass of human beings crowded together perchasing food from the market 
which contained every variety of both meet, fish & vegitable. The scenery was interesting to pass 
through the streets which was illuminated for miles by gas & other lights. I returned with Brother 
Foster & spent the night. Distance of the day 6 m. 


Page 164 




20th Sunday I accompanied the Brethren to the place of meeting in Varick street between 
Vandall & Carlton which is the stated place of Preaching for the saints. Elder Pratt Called upon 
me to Preach to the people. I arose & spoke to them from the parable of the olive tree in the Book 
of Mormon by the Prophet Zenas. The Spirit of God rested upon us. 

At noon we dined with Brother Harderbrook in Carlton Street. Brother David W. Rogers dined 
with us. Brother Rogers was an interesting man. He had been a Methodist for several years but 
had been looking for greater things than the Churches of the day possessed. Brother Rogers was a 
Teacher among the Saints. He was a true & literal desendant of John Rogers who was burnt at the 
stake. He was the six generation from John Rogers. We visited a woman sick with the Palsy. We 
Prayed for her. 

We again returned to the place of meeting. Elder O. Pratt delivered us a vary interesting discours 
from Nephi vision in the third chapter of the first Book of Nephi. The Lords supper was then 
administered unto us. There was one man from Phelidelphia attended meeting during this day & 
was much believing & offered himself for baptism. 

After meeting in company with Brother's Fordham & Rogers I walked to father Pratt's the 
Englishman's. We prayed with his wife & Daughter who was still ill. We supped with them & 
after supper I again walked to the place of meeting & during this walk I was in company with 
Priest Addison Everett hording at comer of Spring & Renwick Street. 

This was also an interesting Brother. My heart burned within me while walking ann in arm 
through the City at hearing a relation from him of the leading of his mind by the spirit of God, & 

I felt to rejoice that the city of New York was producing such Saints. This Brother was of the 
literal desendant of [the tribe?] Ephraim. They had always had the name of Ephraim in the family 
of all their progenitors & down to the present day. 

Brother Everett about a year since had an interview with forty Lamanite Chiefs in this City while 
on their return from Washington to their homes. When he first entered the room whare they were 
sitting they grasped his hand in friendship as though they were inspired to know who he was. 
Brother Everett gave them an account of the Book of Mormon & informed them that the fulness 
of the gospel would soon go to them. They apparently receieved the intelligence with the greatest 
degree of interest. He told them to receive it & teach their tribes to do so when it come unto 
them; the Chiefs promised to do so & wished him to come among them & teach them these 
things. We arived at the place of meeting which closed this interesting subject. 

Elder O. Pratt preached a highly edefying discours to us from the 102 Psalm the Lord should 
build up Zion & appear in his glory. When he closed I followed him. We also herd remarks made 
from Elder Ball & several others bore testimony to the truth clothed with the spirit of God. 
Meeting was dissmissed & I took the parting hand with those beloved saints of God whos 
bosoms were burning with light, spirit & the love of Christ. We returned with Brother Foster & 
spent the night. Mr Willcox of the city of Phelidelphia offers to open his doors for the Saints & 


Page 165 




wishes them to come & warn that people also. Elder Eligah Fordham resides in New York City 
Cherry Street No 327. 


May 2 1 st I wrote a letter to the saints upon the Islands directed to Brother Nathaniel Thomas. 

We dined with Brother Foster & after taking the parting hand with Elder O. Pratt & family & the 
Saints in the City, Elder Fordham accompanied us to the North river & there parted with Elder 
Ball & myself & we went on board the Steem boat Hilander bound for Newburg at 5 oclock PM. 
We had a view of Stony Point lighthouse as we past along the river. We arived at Newburg at 9 
oclock. We tarried on board during the night. Fare 75 cents. Distance 60 miles. 

22 Left the Highlander & walked through Newburg to Middletown. From thence to Westtown. 
We took supper at Mr John Abers whare we found Sister Elizabeth More an interesting Saint. 
Spent the night at S. M Cooks Eagle Hotel. Distance of the day 35 miles. 

23 We spent the day in westtown. We dined in company with Sister More at Mr Henry C. 

Halseys a merchant in the place. We held a meeting in the place at early Candle light in the 
academy, & notwithstanding it was vary rainy we had a full house. I preached to the people from 
Gal 1st ch 8 v. I gave out an appointment for preaching the next night. Spent the night at the 
Eagle Tavern. 

24 The morning rainy the temporal & Spiritual horizon both rather dark. We took breakfast at the 
tavern & walked to Mr Abers. We wrote a Letter to the Saints in Boston. We took supper with 
Stephen Francisco. 

We met at the Academy according to appointment & we had a crouded congregation. I preached 
upon the authenticity of the Book of Mormon. The Spirit of God rested upon me & I had liberty. 
After meeting we accompanied Mr Charles W. Reeves home & spent the night with him. 

25 I wrote a letter to Mrs Woodruff in Scarborough. It was still rainy. We preached in the 
Academy at night. Elder Ball spoke upon the gospel. I followed him. We spent the night with Mr 
Reevs. I was troubled with sore eyes which was brought upon me by reading & writing by a 
candlelight. 

May 26 I returned to Mr Abers & spent a part of the day in reading, Prayer, & meditation. We 
walked in the afternoon to Greenville & spent the night at Mr Benjamin Abers whare we were 
kindly recieved & entertained. 4 mile. 

27 Sunday We preached at Mr Abers upon the first principles of the gospel. Spent the night at Mr 
Aber s. 

28 Spent the day at Mr Abers & Preached at his house at early Candlelight to a large 
Congregation who herd with attention while I spoke upon the authenticity of the Book of 
Mormon. 

29 Spent the day at Mr Abers & Preached at night at his house upon the coming & reign of 


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Christ. 


30 Walked from Mr Abers to Mr Ebenezer Elstons at Waterloo. We held a meeting at evening in 
the School house by request of Mr Isaiah Scott a Preacher of the Christian order. We had a full 
house & herd with attention while Elder Ball spoke unto them & I followed him. Mr Scott 
manifested much interest in our principles they being new to him. He purchased a voice of 
warning of us. We spent the night with Mr Ebenezar Elston. Distance 4 miles. 

3 1st This is the last day of May & a beautiful & serene morning. After taking breakfast with Mr 
Elston I took a walk in Company with Elder Ball into the State of {NEW JERSEY}. It was a 
pleasant walk indeed. We passed the Schoolhouse whare sat the youth with his mind occupied in 
study that he might be prepared to take the place of his parents in the rising generation. This view 
brought fresh to my memory the days of my youth & vanity. 

We next Passed the farm house Crowned with the fruits of a dairy which was so large that it 
required a hors mill to churn the butter. The hors was upon the tread wheel for that purpose as we 
passed along. Smaller wheels are often in use whare the dairies are not so large & they are often 
turned by a sheep, a dog, or a boy; others are larger still & carried by water. 

After walking a distance in the state above named we took a by path & rose a high hill. The road 
was strewed with a great variety of flowers the honey suckle &c. We soon came to the top of the 
hill whare we had a beautiful view of the surrounding country. We sat down under the shade of a 
chesnut & took a survey of the distant fields of Grain which presented a pleasing prospect, & 
while the birds sung their melodious notes we bowed our knees in prayer to the Author of every 
blessing. What reflections occupy the mind of man amid the speed of time. 

This is the first time my feet ever pressed the soil of New jersey. This adds another state to the 
list that I have visited in my Peregrinations. {Seventeen States}. O time how swift thou art. One 
year ago this morning I left Kirtland in company with Elder Hale to go to the Islands of the Sea. 
The Lord hath prospered our way & blessed be his name. Whare will another May day find me? 
O, LORD thou knowest. 

After being refreshed by the breeze I drew my pen & wrote these lines & then returned to E. 
Elstons house & felt refreshed by our mornings walk. We dined at Mr Elstons & walked to 
Westtown & appointed a meeting at candle light. It was expected that we should meet with some 
disturbance from a company of men lead by two drunken Doctors who were parrading in the 
street with their drums fifes & other instruments of musick, but they attended the meeting in 
silence. I preached to the people from Jer 31 ch 22 v. Elder Ball followed me. We delt with the 
people in plainness. We spent the night with Mr Walter Clark. Distance 8 miles. 

June 

June 1st I preached at the Academy & spent the night with Mr Clark. 

2d Preached at the Academy & spent the night with Mr Clark. 


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3 Sunday I left numbers in westtown believing & walked to Mr Benjamin Abers & Preached in 
the afternoon & spent the night at Mr Abers. Distance 4 miles. 

4th Spent the day at Mr Abers & Preached at his house at early candlelight. The spirit of God 
rested upon us & we deliverd unto them our farewell address & last warning. 

5th We left Mr Abers. Walked to westtown. We had another meeting at the Academy. I preached 
to them in the spirit of God & warned them to repent & obey the gospel. We returned to Mr 
Clarks who was the teacher of the Academy & a member of the presbyterian Church. He had 
kindly opened his doors to recieve us & was believing the gospel. He made up his mind after we 
returned to his house to obey the gospel in company with his wife on the following day. But O, 
what power Satan has over the minds of men for during the night Sa[tan] tempted him & he gave 
way to the temptation & was ready to say to us in the morning go thy way for this time. 4. 

6 Mr Clark gave up the idea of receieving the gospel; truly the path is to strait for the gentiles. 
We walked to Mr John Abers & spent the day. Sister More was present. We Preached our 
farewell discourse at night in the Academy. 

I closed by relating an anacdote to the people which included the days from the days from Joseph 
to the reign of Christ from that time to the end of the world. 

June 7 Spent the day in Westtown. I took the parting hand with John Aber & his family & Sister 
More in the evening & spent the night with Mr Clark. 

8 We left Mr Clarks in Westtown & walked to Philips Mills. From thence to Newburg. Here I 
took the parting hand with Elder Ball. He took the Steemboat for NY. & I crossed the ferry to 
Fishkill landing. I then walked to Mattawan & spent the night with Selah Lane a brother in the 
Church & holding the office of a Priest. I was truly thankful to find a place to lay my head as I 
was much fatigued & weary with my Journey. Distance 37. 

9 I arose & felt sore in body. I spent the day in Mattawan. I visited Mr Peter H. Shank's 
plantation Summer house & expensive garden. The orange tree was bending with fruit. I dined 
with Mr Pane Stillwell. His wife was a Saint. Mattawan abounds with Priests & religion of many 
kinds also with Cotton factories sin & abominations and persecutions against the Saints. 

I preached at night at the house of Brother Selah Lane's in Mattawon, Fishkill Dutchess County 
NY. The people gave good attention. I spent the night with Brother Lane. 

10 Sunday I left Mattawon & walked to Fishkill to Mr Lanes & Preached at his house. After 
meeting I walked to Stormsville. 

From thence to Greenhaven & spent the night. I slept in a storehouse containing paints which 
made me stomach sick & broke my nights rest. Distance of the day 20 miles. 

1 1 Walked to Bullsbridge to New Preston & to Bradleysville through a mountaineous & rough 


Page 168 




Country. Distance 37 m. 

12 Walked to Litchfield. From thence to Burlington & to Fannington Connecticut. It was amid 
many meditations that I was again permitted to visit my own native land whare I had spent many 
youthful days with Parents, Brethren, & an ownly Sister. But now some of us are seperated far 
apart. 

It was with peculiar sensations that mine eyes did roam over fannington meadows, the river, the 
canal, the hills & dales during this walk to my fathers house & when I arived there my 
meditations were turned into greater Joy by being permitted to take my Father, Mother, & Sister 
Eunice once more by the hand in friendship & behold each other face to face & what added to 
this interesting interview was Brother Ozem Woodruff was among the number. I baptized him 
the year before & after spending a season in conversing together we all sat down around our 
fathers table & suped together of the bounties of earth & I felt much refreshed & after bowing 
our knees together around the family alter of a fathers house to worship the God of Israel, I took 
an evenings walk with Sister Eunice & found her mind searching for light & truth. I spent the 
night at fathers house. Distance of the day 24 miles. 

June 13th I spent the day at my fathers house. I herd some most interesting letters read from 
Brother Asahel H. Woodruff Directed to Fathers family, Eunice & c. O Asahel may the LORD 
never suffer thy talents to be buried or spent upon the honours wealth glories or vanities of this 
world, but may they yet be in lively exercise in advocating the fulness of the gospel of Jesus 
Christ. Me thinks the Spirit of Inspiration whispers that this will be the case. * (19)-^ } * (20)We 
were visited with an uncommon thunder stonn during this day. The voice of thunder & the voice 
of lightning was vary great. Buildings & some of the beast of the field were destroyed in its 
march. In the midst of the rain the heavens, air, & earth, was clothed with a bright yellow hue 
which was above the brightness of the Sun & it lasted for about half an hour. 

14th I spent the day at fathers house in conversing upon the things of the kingdom of God. 

15 Spent the day at Fathers house. I receieved 1 letter from Elder Ball in the City of NY. It 
contained an important extract of a letter from Elder Thomas B. Marsh in the City far west 
directed to Elders O. & P. P. Pratt, in the City of NY. It contained glorious news from the land of 
Zion. It indicated such prosperity as looked for. 

161 spent the day at my fathers house. 

17 Sunday I attended meeting at the Methodist meeting house. I herd Mr Clark Preach. I applyed 
to him for the privilege of preaching in their meeting house at night but I did not obtain the favor 
& I appointed a meeting at My fathers house at Candlelight. The congregation came together & 
filled the house to overflowing. Many could not get in. I preached upon the scattering & 
gathering of Israel. The room was extreemly warm & I suffered with the heat. <My father 
reproved me for reading my words. I Wilford need remember this and improved 


Page 169 




181 walked in company with Sister Eunice to Mr Chancey Hills. Miss Mary Ann Hills was at 
home & took supper with us. <Mary Ann appeared gloomy. I think she will not marry [Samuel 
Hales/Hills?].> We then walked to Capt Richard Cowles. From thence to Gen George Cowles. 
Here I had spent two years of my youth. They all appeared pleased to see me. We then returned 
home. 3. 

191 spent the day at fathers house & Preached at candlelight upon the authenticity of the Book of 
Mormon & I was blessed with the spirit of God & I was enabled to boldly declair the things the 
Prophets have foretold. 

20th I had an interview with cousin Seth Woodruff the son of Ozem Woodruff. He had become a 
young man of about 16. He left us & returned home. I took a walk alone in the old mill lane as 
the sun was setting in the western horizon. It brought fresh to my recollection the days of my 
youth when I was wont to travel this road with PHILO, ASAHEL & others. But time waites for 
no man. 

After taking this walk I returned to fathers house & Preached to the Citizens of farmington. The 
congregation was principly composed of rich men. I had the spirit of Preaching & I warned them 
not to trust in uncertain riches. I spoke upon the second coming & reign of Christ Job 19 ch. I 
thank the Lord for giving me the privilege of Preaching the fullness of the gosepl to the 
inhabitants of Farmington & to friends & relatives. <[They will often miss?] the pride of the rich 
and pride learned to be proud at the foot of weak things. > 

211 spent this day also at Fathers house. 

22 I left my fathers & walked through Fannington meadows into Avon. While walking upon the 
ha nk of the canal I found a valuable honey bee tree. I called upon Uncle Adna Hart & spent most 
of the day with him. I had an interview with Aunt Hannah Woodruff at Adna Harts. She was in a 
distressed situation being possessed with a devel & bound fast in his chains. I conversed & 
prayed with her. 

In the evening I left Abna's & walked to Woodfords Mills formerly owned by my Father. It 
caused feeling of no ordinary kind to be permitted to again visit these mills & walk the road & 
view the house & larm whare I was born & spent my infancy, childhood, & youth. Their is a cord 
of keene sensation touched when ones eyes are permitted to surveiy the place of his nativity after 
being seperated for a laps of years from this view. I continued my journey into west street & 
spent the night with Uncle Thadeus Thompson a brother to my Mother. Distance of this 
interesting day 7 miles. 

23 I spent the day visiting my relatives & acquaintances. I called upon Grandmother Thompson 
& Able Thompson & had a plesant visit with them. I called upon Michael Woodruff & family, 
little Joseph Hart Also Michael Barber. I Dined with Mr Carlos Day at Roger Woodfords. Cousin 
Eldad Woodruff was pre sent. 


Page 170 




I next called upon Uncle Titus Woodruff. I here conversed with two aged widows of about 90 
years of age viz Mrs Thomas & Mrs Allen. I then visited Capt Francis & Erastus Woodruff. I saw 
Silus & Adna Woodruff. I called upon Julius Fuller. I here found Uncle Ozem Woodruff. I saw 
Cousin Caltha Herd. I had an interview with Cousin Horace Woodruff. I had not seen him before 
for 7 or 8 years. He has been residing with his brother in law Benjamin Withenbury in 
Ashtabula, Andover Co. Ohio. Romanta Barber & other friends reside near by the same place. I 
lastly called upon Uncle Thadeus Alson Thompson & spent the night with him. Distance of the 
day 4 miles. 

June 24th Sunday I called upon William Cowles to see a sick child of Brother Ozem Woodruff. I 
Preached in the lovly street Schoolhouse in the forenoon. I preached upon the reign of Christ 
from Job 19th 23 to 28. 1 also preached in the afternoon at the same place it being the last time I 
ever preached to my friends in that place. I dissmissed the meeting & bid them farewell & 
walked in Company with Brother Ozem Woodruff to Adna Harts. I also preached at his house to 
a congregation of neighbours & relatives upon the authenticity of the Book of Mormon. I spent 
the night at Adna Harts & in the evening we Prayed with Sister Hannah Woodruff who was 
bound by the enemy. Distance 6 miles. 

25 I took the Parting hand with Uncle Adna & his family & took the Canal boat for Fannington 
in company with Aunt Anna Cosset. We arived at father's house in the morning & took breakfast 
& spent the day in a vary agreeable manner in conversing upon the things of the Kingdom of 
God. 5 miles. 

26 { } } I wrote a letter in company with Sister {Eunice} to Brother {Asahel}. This is a privilege 
we never before enjoyed. I also wrote a letter to cousin Betsey Cossett at the same date. 

27 I spent the day at fathers house. 

28 I spent the day at Fathers house <doing his work>. 

29 I had a pleasant walk with Sister Eunice upon the canal. We walked to Mr Simeon Hart & had 
an interview with Cousin Achsah Woodruff. I made some exhertions to obtain the Hall to Preach 
in but the people fearing their foundation would fall because of light & truth refused to give me 
the privilege. 

But O, Babylon thou canst not break the scriptures nor stop the work of God for I say in the name 
of the LORD the standard of truth shall be set up in Farmington & the honest in heart will come 
to it for light & truth is mighty & must prevail & none can stay the hand of God & WO be unto 
the gentiles. 

30 I spent the day at Fathers house. These are days of great suspens to me. I am now looking for 
my father & his household to enter into the new & everlasting covenant & to partake of the 
blessings of the Kingdom of God. Yet Satan striveth to hender them & rageth against us all 
because a blessing is near. O Lord preserve us from his grasp I pray that we may have a victory & 


Pagel71 




that we may have an answer to our prayers & that the Revelations of Jesus Christ may be fulfilled 
to my Joy. 


July 

JULY 1st 1838 On this seventh month the first day of the month and the first day of the week 
which is called Sunday some of the most important events transpired with me that I ever 
witnessed since I had a being, events worthy to be recorded upon the ARCHIEVES OF 
HEAVEN. Or to be engraven with an iron pen & laid in a rock forever upon the EARTH. For I 
know that my Redeemer liveth & he hath this day given me with my friends a victory over the 
Devil that tries the Souls of men that dwell upon the face of the earth. 

My father Aphek Woodruff, the Son of Eldad Woodruff, which was the Son of Josiah Woodruff, 
is a man that hath been seeking religion & the favor of God & light & truth for many years at 
times, & for more than 20 years have a numerous Circle of friends made his Case a subject of 
Prayer & pied with God in his behalf. But as oft as my father hath strugled for a victory over sin 
& its influence heretofore Satan hath tempted him & hindered him from gaining the victory. 

But since I had became a member of the church of Latter Day Saints & entered the New & 
Everlasting Covenants & had a dispensation of the gospel committed unto me, I felt a deeper 
interest than ever in the Salvation of the Soul of my Father. I had now come to declare a message 
to my Father & his houshold & teach them words whareby they might be saved. 

I began to Cry unto God for my father & his houshold & the Lord Showed me in a night vision 
that a great victory was nigh. But the devil fell upon the whole household with great wrath & 
tempations. Some of the time one was ready to fall back & reject the gospel & then again 
annother. His power rested upon me at the same time as if to devour me at once. But after being 
confined to my bed for several hours under his grasp, in the name of Jesus Christ I with my 
friends hirst the Powers of darkness. I went & stood before the people & declaired the gospel of 
Jesus Christ, & Shout O Heavens, and rejoice O earth for the victory the Lord hath given us. For 
after preaching the gospel to the peopl, 1 immediately assembled upon the bank of Farmington 
river whare there was much water & lead six of my friends into the waters of Baptism. Five of 
them were my relatives viz my Father, my Mother, & my ownly Sister Eunice, aunt Anna 
Cossett, & Cousin Seth Woodruff & the other was Mr Dwight Webster a methodist class leader. 

We returned from the water rejoiceing & confirmed them by the laying on of hands at my fathers 
house. 1 organized this small branch of the Church being 9 in number 8 of which were my 
relatives. 1 Ordained Brother Dwight Webster to the Office of a Priest. I Communed with these 
Saints & unbosomed my feelings unto them which closed the scenes of this interesting day which 
have come to pass in fullfilment of my Patriarchal blessing under the hands of the Patriarch 
JOSEPH. 


{ 


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See Journal Vol 1st April 15, 1837 
Great and marvelous are thy Works 
O LORD GOD ALMIGHTY 

Written upon what came to pass on the first day of 
July AD 1838 in fulfillment of Revelation 


O GOD my heart inspire my pen direct While I record this scene of thy mercy this blessing of thy 
love a blessing promised me by the testimony of JESUS CHRIST. Could I claim it? Yes by faith 
all things are possible even that my parents & friends could in the new Covenant with me stand. 
Without shame I stood the gospel to declare. It was a sword to pierce the hearts of my friends. 

The day had come. They felt that God had sent. They must obey. 

Oer the thresh hold of my father's house I walked accompanied by my friends. Towards the 
appointed place we bent our way untill upon the rivers bank we stood. All nature spread her 
fields of pleasing green. The canal bold in her bed lay ready her inland Commerce to convey. The 
sun Shed forth her golden beams to gladden earth while the silver stream was rolling at my feet 
as if to say I am ready for thee. 

Amid this scenery with feelings better imagined than described I cast my eyes upon the audiance 
while we sung praises to the God of Israel. Who would not have bowed the knee while offering 
the sacrifice of the heart and imploreing the blessings of heaven that the spirit of God the 
candidates & the waters might pervade? As from our knees we arose I entered the wattery 
element and asked who was ashamed of the bed whare Jesus lay. 

Many eyes were turned to behold this scene and deep solemnity veiled their faces While I took 
my Father by the hand. My Father did I say? Yes HE Covenanted to walk with God and for the 
remission of his sins I Baptized him. Feeling the victory won my Mother followed his steps and 
by obediance was sealed a Saint a member of the kingdom. Eunice my sister my ownly sister was 
ready. Her noble Soul by Ephraim’s spirit inspired her garb of pride had rent and broke the 
gentiles chain. Fearless of the world’s despiseing she freely recieved the watery bed her Master to 
imitate while her firm example should say Celestial glory is my boast the garb of Saints my 
pride. 


Page 173 





For the consolation of Israel Anna long had look'd and rejoiced that She Could now the ancient 
path persue. Upon the scene her daughters gazed as if to say Great God prepare us likewise thy 
will to do. Seth in his early youth was not to young his God to serve. He desired to follow the 
example of his father, mother, and brother that they might be one. Ozem, Hannah, and John, the 
Parents & brother of Seth were baptized on the 12 of JUN 1839 as my Journal declares. 

Dwight though not of consanguine blood to me desired baptism at my hands for by the blood of 
Christ we were united. Thrice the cross he strove to pass & as oft the spirit pressed his honest 
soul & he submitted to obey. 

Thus ended this scene of wonder shall I say? Yes and of mercy to, for heaven countenance’d the 
deed for it was Gods command an ordinance of the gospel. TO be pennitted to stand in ones own 
native land and the gospel of JESUS CHRIST to declare in the last dispensation & while dividing 
the word through the power of the priesthood to his kindred his townsman to behold the pride of 
the great, the rich, the learned, by the spirit of God humbled at his feet. Then to experience the 
living reality of a Father, a Mother, an ownly Sister meekly with other kindred receiving the 
ordinances of the house of God at the hand of their Son and brother is to me at least a scene of 
Interest. 

As we retired from the rolling stream to a Father's roof my spirit was ready to say forget this not 
O my soul regard it as the mercy of thy God. While thou dost pay thy vows thy covenants fulfill. 
While upon the head of these Saints my hands were lade I implored the mercy of God for the 
Holy Ghost upon them to rest & guide them right. The bread and wine was bles'd & we partook 
to remember him who died for us. O, Eternal God these Saints inspire, protect, support, defend 
untill in Zion they stand and with Celestial glory crowned an heir with GOD AND CHRIST. 


Page 174 




} 



{======================== 

A 

List of the names of the Church 
of Latter Day Saints Baptized & organized in 
Farmington Connecticut, July 1st 1838 
by Willford Woodruff: 


Titles 

Names 

FATHER 

APHEK WOODRUFF 

MOTHER 

AZUBAH WOODRUFF 

SISTER 

EUNICE WOODRUFF 

UNCLE 

OZEM WOODRUFF 

AUNT 

HANNAH WOODRUFF 

COUSIN 

JOHN WOODRUFF 

COUSIN 

SETH WOODRUFF 

AUNT 

ANNA COSSETT 

PRIEST 

DWIGHT WEBSTER 


Page 175 




{WILLFORD} 


=========================} 

July 2d I took the parting hand With Brother Webster & I bid him God Speed & he returned to 
his friends. I also took the parting hand with Sister Anna Gossett & her two daughters Betsey & 
Anna. May the Lord bless them. 

I enjoyed a plesant walk with Sister Eunice at the setting Sun we walked upon the canal. We 
viewed the river & plesant fields and partook of some buries by the way side. This is the last 
walk I have enjoyed with my Sister. 

After evening prayers with the family Father retired to rest & I spent a season in conversation 
with Mother & we felt sensibly the weight of the powers of temptation that try the souls of men 
but out of them all the Lord delivers his Saints. I also spent a short time with Sister Eunice before 
retireing we mingled our Sympathys tears & Prayers together before a Throne of grace. Truly 
how strong is the Cord of Consanguinity & of the Blood of Christ united in binding the hearts of 
Saints together. And how blessings brighten as they take there flight. This was the last night I 
spent beneath my fathers roof. May the Lord protect thy household & bring thee safe to Zion. 

3rd I arose in the morning refreshed by sleep & after once more partaking of the bounties of earth 
together we bowed our knees before the Lord & offered up our morning sacrafice before a throne 
of Grace. I then took the parting hand with my Father Mother & Sister Eunice & also my native 
land once more I bid farewell. I then walked to Mr Whitmers & took conveyance into Hartford. I 
then walked to Tolland. From thence to Stafford & spent the night. Distance of the day 36 miles. 

4th I walked to Holland to Stubbridge. From thence to Worcester. I walked 40 miles this fourth 
of July & the thermometer stood at 90 degrees in the shade & 104 in the Sun. I spent the night at 
the U.S.A. Hotel. 40. 

5 I took the rail car at Worcester at 6 oclock & reached Boston at 8 oclock. Distance 46 miles. I 
had an interview with Elder Ball at Butoph street No 12 & spent the day with him the City of 
Boston. 1 had an interview with Sister Vose Murtle Street No 9. 

1 took the Steem boat Portland at 7 oclock PM. She left the wharf & started for the City of 
Portland. We passed through a heavy thunder storm in the fore part of the night. At 12 oclock we 
were half way to Portland. The whole distance of the day 106 miles. 

6th In the morning we saw a Spanish flag of distress at sea. We approached her & found her to be 
a wreck of a Spanish brig. They had been wrecked about 10 days. All the crew was on board & 
no lives lost. We took her in tow of the steem boat Portland & towed her into Portland. Her main 
mast & for top mast had gone by the board & she was damaged otherwise. When they were 
addressed with (Parley vo franc mon shire) they Could answer (we mon shire) & English to. 


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We arived at Portland at 8 oclock AM. I took breakfast with my brother in law Ezra Carter & 
after visiting some of the Book Stores & Purchasing an {ALBUM} for Mrs Woodruff I walked 
out to Scarborough & had the privilege of again greeting my Companion & friends in peace & 
Prosperity & I spent the night with Mrs Woodruff at father Carters. Distance of the day 70 m. 

July 7th I wrote a Letter to Elder Milton Holmes. 

8 Prom the 8th to the 13th day of the month I spent with my Companion at Lather Carters. My 
time was principally taken up in writing in my Journal. 

13 I had an interview with Mr James Wilcox from Avon Connecticut a Son of Asa Willcox. Mr 
James Wilcox was a Presbyterian Minister but he had now left his ministry & his present 
business was selling Patent's for tanning leather. 

} I receieved an interesting letter from Kirtland from Elder Jonathan H. Hale. It contained much 
news of Importance & among the good things it says that Brother Joseph is in Missouri & that 
the Lord is with him & that they recieve the word of the Lord daily. 

{========================= 


JULY 14th The events of this day & the merciful providences of GOD with us are of such a 
nature that we deem them worthy of a place in our Journal to remind us at least that the LORD 
makes the bed of his Saints in their Sickness & that amid the deepest wounds of affliction & 
Sorrow Pain or distress it is safe to trust in HIM. 

Mrs Woodruff was called at an early hour this morning to pass through that scene of Sickness 
which is common among women in every age of the world. But after praying with her & laying 
hands upon her & imploring the mercy of God in her behalf she was spedily blessed with the 
birth of a fine daughter which was her first born. Her name is {SARAH EMMA WOODRUPP} 
She was bom JULY 14th 1838 at half past five oclock in the morning. O Lord prepare her for 
thyself! Make her worthy to stand among the Daughters of ZION. 


} 


{ 


{Pifth Generation 

SARAH EMMA BORN July 14th 1838} 

=========================} 

July 14th Our daughter Sarah Emma in half an hour after she was born performed a journey in 
the arms of Sister Sarah Loss through the garret, Chambers, & lower rooms, & principly through 
the whole house. Is not this an omen of her being an extensive traveller in her day? Let time 
detennin. Mrs Woodruff was comfortable through the day more so than Could have been 


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expected. Happy is that people whose God is the Lord. 

15 Sunday I spent the day at Father Carters. Mrs Woodruff Continues to be Comfortable and 
gains strength. 

16 Phebe is unusually favored for one in her circumstances. This is the third day of her 
confinement & she has walked from her bedroom into the adjoining rooms & then returned 
without injury. I spent the day mowing grass for Sister Sarah Foss. It being rather new business I 
felt weary at night. 

17 I spent the day mowing for Sister Foss. I spent the night at Father Carters with Mrs Woodruff. 
181 spent the day haying for Sister Foss. I felt some unwell Caused by hard labour. 

191 spent the day at Father Carters writing in my first Journal. 

20 I received a letter from Elder Ball from Vinalhaven giving an account of the State of the 
Church in that place. <Some have denied the faith. Others [Warren Parrish?] and Benton have 
written letters to them to destroy my influence. This way the priests of Baal have almost thrown 
me.> Some of them were preparing for Zion. They wished me to call and visit them which may 
God grant Soon. 

f I wrote a letter to the Church on fox Islands directed to Priest Thomas who is a worthy Saint. 

21 } For the first time in my life I wrote a letter to Sister Eunice Woodruf. ■]: 

22 ^ I Wrote a Letter to Elder Thomas B. Marsh in Far West Caldwell County Missouri. I gave 
him an account of the Churches in the east, & of six persons that I baptized in Farmington 
Connecticut. I Also forwarded three new subscribers for the Elders Journal viz Dwight Webster, 
Betsey Cossett, & James M. Tibbets. 

23 & 24 I laboured for Sister Foss making hay. 

25 I laboured for Sister Foss & spent the night at father Carters. I dreamed many enemies were 
seeking my life & while they were striving to destroy me Samuel Deming presented me with the 
following words & wished me to tell what they meant viz "Go unto Babylon. Arise go quickly 
for thou shalt go unto the dead." 

26 I made hay for Sister Foss & spent the night at father Carters. I dreamed my enemies while 
reproaching me presented before me a large stamp bearing this inscription: HELP THE 
CHURCH BUILD THE HOUSE. 

July 27 I laboured for Sister Foss. 

28 I spent the day at father Carters in writing. 

29 I rode to Buxton in company with Sister Foss. I spent the day with Elder James Townsend. I 


Pagel78 




had a plesent interview with him. I returned & spent the night at father Carters. 16. 

30 } I received a letter from Elder Milton Holmes. I forwarded him two pamphlets by Mail. I 
took the parting hand with Mrs Woodruff & Father Carters family to go to visit fox Islands for 
the last time, for the purpose of assisting as many of the Saints as are ready to prepare their teams 
waggons & teams to go to the land of Zion. 

0 my God prosper my way. Give me favor with the Saints. Enable a goodly number of them to 
go to the land of Zion. Deliver me from the hands of my enemies. Bless my wife & the babe 
which thou has given us, while I am absent. Enable me to return to again greet them in health. I 
ask these blessings in the name of Jesus Christ Amen. 

1 walked to Portland and spent the night with Ezra Carter jr. Distance of the day 10 miles. 

311 left Portland & walked to North Yarmouth 1 1 miles, to freeport, to Brunswick to Bath & 
spent the night with Mr Crooker the public surveigher. Distance 33 miles. 

August 

Aug 1st I walked to Wiscassett, to Demascoty mills, to Nobleborough to Walderborough. 30. 

2 I walked to East Thomaston. I dined with Mrs Andrew Luce. I visited Mr Spalden and Benj. 
Knowlton. Several came to see me & inpuire into the things of the kingdom & wished me to pray 
with them. I did so. All was calm in town. No spirit against me. Many wish to hear preaching. 

I next walked to Camden harbour. Called & took supper with Mr Coboum Tylor. I received no 
opposition in Camden at this time. I walked to Brother Ebenezer Ames. All appeared glad to see 
me. I then walked to Goose river. 

I here had an unexpected & interesting interview with Brother Nathaniel Thomas & had the 
happy privilege of once more striking hands with this faithful Saint. We took a walk together to 
the Simonton district & spent the night with Mr Pease. Sister Pease rejoiced to see me return as 
many had prophesyed that I would never return. Distance 30 miles. 

3rd I visited Mr Whitley. I found sister Whitley strong in the faith. I preached at night in the 
Schoolhouse and spent the night with Mr William Brown. Distance of the day 5 miles. 

Aug 4th I visited the people from house to house & taught in the family Circle. I spent the night 
at Mr Pease. 4. 

5 Sunday I preached two discourses in the town house in Camden to a large congregation but the 
people do not realize it to be a day of warning and not of many words. This is the last time I shall 
lift up my voice unto this people, and when the wars and troubles come upon this eastern country 
they will find the servents of God have told them the truth. I spent the night at Mr Simontons. 

6 I walked to east Thomaston & preached in the methodist meeting house to a large congregation 


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of citizens who gave good attention. I spent the night at Joseph Spaldin’s. Distance 8 miles. 

7 I left Thomaston wharf on board a sail boat in company with Brother Thomas & Mr Spaldin for 
fox Islands. We arived at Brother Sterretts in the afternoon. After spending a short time with 
them I walked to Brother Ephraim Luce& to Br Stephen Luce & spent the night. Distance of the 
day 18 miles. I found Br & Sister Luce strong in the faith. 

} I received a letter from Elder Thomas B. Marsh from Zion in answer to the one I wrot to the 
Bishop & Presidency & Saints in Zion. They are both published in the 3d NO. of the Elders 
Journal. 

8 I went to John Kents & found a letter for me from A. O. Smoot in Zion. } It contained many 
interesting items. It gave an account of their procedings on the 4th of July 1838 the laying of the 
comer stone of the house of the Lord in Caldwell County Mo in the presence of three thousand 
Saints. 

I then walked to Brother Justus Ames, & to Brother Maltire Luce. <Distance> 6 m. 

9 I walked to Mr Ebenezer Carvers. From thence to Br Ephraim Luce. I here met the Saints for a 
prayer meeting & to Council together. 

Brother Justus Ames soon came in and brought with him the Elders Journal. It was the third NO. 
printed but the first that was published in far west. It was Dated July 1838. It Contained many 
important Items. It spread before the world all the procedings of the Saints in the west such as the 
Clensing of the Church, their Councils & procedings & the names of those that were cut off from 
the Church & had made shipwreck of faith &c. 

Brother Ames presented me also with a letter from Elder Thomas B. Marsh Containing important 
intelligence to myself as well as others. The letter was dated July 14 1838. 

After meeting I walked to Brother Ames & spent the night. <But sleep departed from me as I 
spent the night in deep meditation.> Distance 5. 

{========================= 

A Coppy of a letter Written by Elder Thomas B. Marsh Directed to Elder Willford Woodruff 
Dated July 14, 1838. 


Elder W. Woodruff 

} Sir; a fiew days since Prest. Joseph Smith jr. and some others were assembled to attend to some 
Church business when it was thought proper to select those who was designed of the LORD to 
fill the places of those of the twelve who had fallen away namely Wm. E Mclellin, Lyman E. 
Johnson, Luke Johnson, and John F. Bointon. The persons selected were John E. Page, John 


Page 180 




Taylor, Willford Woodruff and Wilard Richards. On the following day five of the twelve with 
President Rigdon and some others met and resolved that President Rigdon write to Br. Richards 
who is now in England and inform him of his appointment, and that P. P. Pratt write to Orson 
Pratt and inform him that the LORD has Commanded that the { 12} assemble in this place as 
soon as possible and that I should write to yourself. 

Know then brother Woodruff by this that you are appointed to fill the place of one of the twelve 
apostles; and that it is agreeable to the word of the LORD given vary lately that you should come 
spedity to far west, And on the 26 of April next to take your leave of the Saints here and depart 
for other climes across the mighty deep! Yours in the love of God. 

Wilford Woodruff Thomas B. Marsh 

Far West July 14th 1838 

=========================} 

Aug 101 left Br Ames in company with Priest Thomas for the purpose of visiting the South 
Island notwithstanding the threats of the people to mob, tar, feather, and kill me if I came there 
again. Yet I was detennined to visit the Saints once more upon that Island of the sea. 

I had a short interview with Mr Douglass the methodist Preacher, at John Kents store. His vary 
countenance indicated the wrath of his heart against me. 

We crossed the thoroughfare and landed upon the South Island with Jabez Brown. We walked to 
Br Crockett's, to Br. Merchant's. From thence to Br. Charles Brown to Capt Benj. Coombs. We 
took supper with him. We called upon Mr Burgess and family. They had made shipwreck of faith 
and cared for none of these things. We next called upon Br. Jesse Coombs. We found them 
strong in faith. We spent the night with them. Distance of the day 10 miles. 

Aug 111 took the parting hand with these Saints and probably for the last time unless they flee to 
the land of Zion we bid them farewell & walked to the north end of the Island via Br. Crocketts 
& Merchants but the wrath of my enemies is great towards me through this Island. 

We called upon Mr James Crocket to convey us across the thuroughfare to North Island but he 
partaking of the same spirit would not do it. But the Lord knowing how to deliver his Saints put 
it in to the hearts of the sons of our enemies to bring a boat to carry us across to the north Island. 

I went to Br. Justus Ames & found them in a bad situation. They had been much tempted and 
tryed because some of their Children were against them & would not go with them to Zion and so 
they gave it up themselves & Concluded to stay in Babylon a while and resk the consequences. 
His children had a hard spirit but they will all see their folly when it is to late. 

I walked to Brother Stephen Luce and spent the night. Distance 1 1 miles. 

12 Sunday I met with the Saints at Br. Ephraim Luce & gave the Saints my farewell address 


Pagel81 




which is the last time I shall meet with the Saints upon these Islands of the Sea; the spirit of God 
rested upon me and I had an interesting time. It was a day of decision with the saints. Some 
concluded to go to Zion & some concluded to stay. Justus Ames Concluded to stay because some 
of his Children were against him. I expect he will stay until! hes drove out by the Judgments of 
God. 

After meeting was closed I went home with Br. Ames and while the Sun was sitting in the 
western horizon, I retired aside from the abodes of men by the sea shore alone by myself and 
clensed my feet with pure water and bore testimony before GOD against the inhabitants of those 
Islands of the Sea for rejecting my testimony while in their midst and were excedingly mad 
against me. I spent the night at Br. Ames. This is the last night I ever spent or shall spend upon 
those Islands of the Sea. 4. 

131 took the parting hand with Br. Ames family, and Brother Ames accompanied me in his sail 
boat out of the northern harbour to go to Camden. The morning was delightful and serene. We 
sailed to father Maltire Luce's wharf and took the parting hand with him and his family. We again 
took our boat in Company with Brother N Thomas. 

We left the Islands, for the last time, at Br. Luces wharf, and I thank the Lord for once more 
delivering me from the hands of wicked and ungodly men who seek my destruction while their 
anger is kindled against me. 

We sailed across the Penobscot bay and went up the goose river. We here took the parting hand 
with Br. Ames who returned home while [we] walked to James Andrews, who is ingaged in 
making the baggage waggons for Brother Nathaniel Thomas & the Saints to Journey to the land 
of Zion with. 

Brother Thomas possesses the true spirit of Christ and of understanding in this matter. ("Truly 
how hardly shall they that have riches enter into the Kingdom of God.") For while one and 
another that hath this worlds goods have been drawing back not wishing to go with the poor lest 
they should be under the necessity of assisting them with some of their money, while this hath 
been the case with some it hath been otherwise with Brother Nathaniel Thomas. He possessing 
some of this worlds goods and seeing his poor Brethren hath need of some of this worlds goods 
also is now stepping forward with cheerfulness in the integrity of his soul to their assistance. He 
is now engaging about one thousand dollars worth of horses, and waggons, & tents &c; to convey 
the poor to the land of Zion. O may God bless him and his posterity forever I {pray} . Surely it is 
more blessed to give than to receieve. 

We saw two of the waggons. I soon discovered one fault about them ie. they were ownly 8 feet in 
length while they ought to have been 1 1 feet. We walked to Mr Peas and spent the night. 

Distance of the day 18 miles. 

14th I walked to Searsmont and found the people rather Cold. I held a meeting with them and had 
a full house. I spent the night with Mr Mark L. Kimble. Distance of the day 12 miles. 


Page 182 




15 I left Searsmont and walked to Simonton district and spent the night with Mr Pease. 12 miles. 

16 I walked to Mr James Andrews, & found Brother Thomas. We returned to Mr Pease and rode 
to Camden harbour & bought several set of double harness, & spent the night at Mr Pease. 10. 

171 left the Simonton district & started with a horse & waggon for Scarborough. I rode acrosst 
the toll bridge west of Nobleborough & put up for the night. Distance 26 m. 

181 found the horse was not sound that I was travelling with as the gentile warrented him to be. 
He had the heaves and horse ale and was not able to perform his Journey. Consequently I 
returned back to Camden. We exchanged the horse with a man for another which was good. 26 
m. 

Aug 191 once more took the parting hand with the Saints & friend in the Simonton district & 
started for Scarborough. I bid the town of Camden Adieu for the last time. I rode to Warren 8 
miles to Walderborough 8, to Nobleborough 8, to Newcastle or sheepscut 6, to Wiscossett 6 to 
Bath 10. 1 crossed Bath ferry & continued on wheelers Inn 4, and spent the night. The whole 
distance that my horse carried me this day over a rough road was 50 miles. Distance 50 m. 

20 I rode to Brunswick 4 miles, to Freeport 9, to North Yarmouth 9, to Portland 1 1, to 
Scarborough 10 miles. I arived at father Carters house at 3 oclock PM & had the happy privilege 
of greeting my wife and child & other friends in peace and health. And on my return I felt as 
though I had taken my last gentile mission in America untill their was a great overturn which I 
view as being near the door. 

} On my return home I received a letter from Brother Asahel H. Woodruff under Date of July 23, 
1838 the contents of which were of the highest interest to my feelings. It caused raptures of Joy 
to vibrate my soul, while tears of consolation flowed from my eyes. I now find my brother 
earnestly enquiring what he shall do to be saved, & searching deep for light & truth with a desire 
to embrace it. May the Lord assist him to obtain it. 

} I also receieved an interesting letter from Sister Eunice under date of Aug 1 1 . 1 spent the night 
at father Carters with my family. Distance of the day 42 miles. 

21 } I wrote two letters one to Elder Milton Holmes, & the other to Mr Salmon S. Wilder of the 
City of Boston. I spent the day at father Carters. 

22 I walked to Elder James Townsend in Buxton. I had a plesent interview with him & returned 
to father Carter’s & spent the night. Ilus Carter was also at home. Distance of the day 18 miles. 

23 I spent the day at father Carters in writing. 

24 ^ I wrote two letters one to Priest Dwight Webster and the other to } Sister Eunice Woodruff. 

25 ^ I wrote a lengthy letter to Brother Asahel H. Woodruff in answer to his interesting letter 


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under date of July 22d 1838 written at Terre Haute Indiana. 

26 Sunday I had an interview with Brother & Sister Townsend. 

27th } I wrote a letter to Priest Nathaniel Thomas. 

Aug 28 I spent the day in writing. I made a family record for Brother Joseph Fabyan Carter <[-] 
and son>. 

29 I wrote an acrostic for Shuah C. Carter. *5(21)* 5(22) 

30 I rode in Company with Mrs Woodruff to Brother Luther Scamman's & spent the night. 
Distance 4 miles. 

3 1st The last day of Summer. I rode in Company with Mrs Woodruff & Sister Rhoda F. 

Scamman to the Beach on the Sea Shore. We spent an hour riding upon this beautiful beach 
which extended along the shore for about seven miles in length and one hundred rods in wedth at 
low water. This beach is composed of fine white sand, almost dead level & vary easy & plesent 
to ride or walk upon. The sun shone brilliant upon the face of nature. The canvass of the gallant 
Ships were filled with the morning breeze as they sailed upon the deep. Wave after wave were 
reaching the extent of their bounds upon the shore & sinking back into there own gravity. These 
together with a cloud of various sea fowls that were hovering around and lighting upon the water 
rendered this morning's excursion vary plesent to our feelings. And after picking up a quantity of 
sea shells to carry to the land of Zion for domestic uses, & in memory of the place, we cut up a 
babary bush from whence babary tallow is obtained & then rode from the beach & returned to 
Mr Scammans. 

From thence we rode to Brother Edward Milliken's. From thence to Mr Samuel Lowels, & to 
Aaron Mckinney's & after spending several hours with them, we returned home in Company with 
Father & Mother Carter. The whole distance of the day 20 miles. {<0 Lord grant that I may from 
[ — ] tend [-] my wife and child [ — ] love> to each <[ — ] our> duty <[—]•>} 

September 

Sept 1st The first day of fall. Time tarrieth not. Let man haste to be wise. I spent the day at father 
Carters. 

2d Sunday I spent the day at Father Carters. 

3d I spent the day at Sister Sarah Foss. 

4 I spent the day visiting in Father Carters Neighbourhood in company with Mrs Woodruff. 

5 I spent the day at father Carters making a Box to put our goods in to go to the land of Zion in 
far west. The Box was 3 ft. 2 inchs in length 2 ft 5 inch in highth 2 ft 8 inch in wedth. 


Page 184 




6th I Packed about 300 lbs of Goods into the box above spoken of. I desire that I may arive safe 
with them to the land of Zion. } I received a letter from Priest Nathaniel Thomas. 

7th I packed 70 lbs of goods into a barrel. } I wrote a letter to Priest Nathaniel Thomas. 

Sept 8th For the first time in my life I obtained the Journal & travels of Lorenzo Dow. I spent a 
part of the day in reading it. I found it to be highly interesting. He puts me in mind of the travels 
of the Monnons as the gentiles Call us. It brings fresh to mind many of my own travels & 
labours in the ministry. It is true that Lorenzo Dow was eccentric in his manners life & 
Procedings but he appears to have as much light as any in his day & generation & there is no 
doubt in my mind but that he was persecuted for doing good. 

9th Sunday I spent most of the day at Sister Sarah Foss. I made her a family Record viz of Calvin 
Foss's progenitors for five generations past Also Sister Sarah’s progenitors for five generations on 
father Carters side she being my Sister in Law. 

There is great excitement through the Country on the subject of the Election. The people are 
electionereing through the streets notwithstanding it is Sunday. I had an interview with my 
Brother in Law Ezra Carter. Satan is stired up to try to hinder myself and wife from going to 
Zion. May the Lord rebuke him. 

} I wrote a Letter to sister Eliza Grant & spent the night at Father Carters. 

Our Child has a severe attack of the Hooping Cough but the Lord is able to support her on the 
Journey to Zion. I pray the Lord to spare her life for our sakes if it is his will. If not to help us to 
be resigned. Isaiah tells us about going to Zion in the last days and about the prosperity & 
glorious state thereof and Jer 3 1 ch. 8 sayes they shall be gathered from the coasts of the earth & 
with them the woman with Child and her that travaileth with Child together & a great company 
shall return thither. I expect in few days to lead a company to Zion in like Circumstances. May 
God bless us all on the way. 

0 the ignorance, blindness, & darkness of the gentiles, Concerning the fulfillment of the Bible. 

10 ***** * (23)This is a day of Interest on many accounts. The election for Governor & other 
state Offices of Maine is to be decided this day. Also the Camp of the Saints was to start from the 
Islands of the Sea for Zion this day. However they may be detained from starting a few days in 
order to add to their numbers. 

1 rode to the place of election with Ilus & Fabyan Carter my Brothers in law. As I was a legal 
voter in the state of Maine I cast in my vote which was the Democratic Republican Ticket viz for 
Governor JOHN FAIRFIELD Representative to congress ALBERT SMITH, For senators 
NATANIEL S. LITTLEFIELD, CHARLES HOLDEN, OTIS C. CROSS, & JOHN C. 
HUMPHREYS, For County Treasurers MARK HARRIS, Regester of Deeds SAMUEL BAKER. 
The above vote I Cast on this 10th day of Sept 1838 in Scarborough, Cumberland County Maine. 


Page 185 




Sept 10th After returning from the Election } I recieved an interesting Letter from Mother 
Woodruff under date of Sept 7th which was written at Simsbury Connecticut while she was on a 
visit to si[ster?] Anna Gossett's. She informed me they were all strong in faith of the New 
Covenant & Sister Eunice firmly contending for the truth & others of my relatives were believing 
in the cause of the Latter Day Saints. What Joy such intelligence brings to my Soul. O how 
mysterious are the ways of God! I spent the night at father Carters. Distance 8 miles. 

1 1th I perused the Portland Argus & saw the returnes of the Election of Cumberland County. The 
republicans had a majority over the federalist of about 100. 1 expect the electionereing 
excitement will pass off in few day & sumthing els will occupy the minds of men. 

* (24)1 learn from experienc that the Saint must watch & pray lest he enter into tempation & in 
order to overcome the devil we must continually be on our watch tower. The Saint in any age of 
the world cannot pass through their allotted portion of existance on flowery beds of ease in this 
life. 

I am now daily making preparations to leave the State of Maine and all my relatives and friends 
in Scarborough to lead a Company of Saints from the Islands of the Sea to the land of Zion in the 
far west. I shall be accompanied by my wife & Child. It is the greatest trial Phebe has ever been 
called to pass through to take the parting hand of her Parents, Brethren & Sisters, & neighbours 
& perhaps for the last time, & go a journey of two thousand miles late in the fall & start with a 
babe of two months old which is in the first stage of the hooping cough & to add to this to leave a 
kind father's house of plenty & go to a new Country & settle among strangers after the flesh. 
These kind reader are the meditations that are daily running with the rapidity of lighting through 
the mind of my bosom friend & companion & to add the insinuation of friends against such a 
course of procedings, and all the temptations that the devil is capable of inventing are crouded 
into the mind in order to hinder the will of God being done. Thus standing in the midst of such a 
position nothing but a Saint could stand the Shock. Nothing but a God Could support the Sinking 
Soul. I speak not of myself but my Companion and when she suffers I suffer also. 

The above has been a code of experience my wife hath been passing through from time to time 
for weeks that are past and gone and at times it seemed as though all earth & hell were combined 
to crush her troubled soul. 

I began to cry unto God that she might be supported under these & all other trials & I soon found 
that the same spirit which had inspired her to imbrace the fullness of the gospel & forsake her 
friends & go a journey of 1,000 miles to enjoy the Society of the Saints & had united her heart & 
hand with my own & caused her to accompany me to the Islands of the Sea, was with HER 
STILL. 

Yes PHEBE possesses to much firmness, & faith in God & confidence in God to put her hand to 
the plough & look back or to wholy give way to such trials & any other however great. She is 
detennined, like Ruth, to forsake her kindred & Country for Christs sake & my own & the cause 


Page 186 




in which she is ingaged, & as I behold this principle beaming in her daily walk, heart, & 
countenance it binds my whole Soul to her in love stronger than death or the bars of a Castle. 

Yes that love that none partakes of except those in like Circumstances, and that man that will not 
love his wife with all his heart after she has made such a sacrifice for his sake is not worthy of a 
companion or a standing in human Society. And O ye ungodly gentiles that would laugh at a man 
for considering such a wife the greatest temporal blessing that heaven Could bestow ye are more 
fit for the Society of Demons than a virtuous woman. 

The devel has never tempted me to scease from doing the will of God by gathering to Zion or to 
scease travling & preaching the gospel, by presenting before me my friends & telling me to stay 
& enjoy their society. For in doing thus I might ruin both myself & friends. I would sooner say to 
him get the behind me Satan. For I would go to the land of Zion or where ever God sent if I had 
to forsake as many fathers, mothers, brothers, & Sisters as could stand between Maine & 

Missouri & subsist upon boiled herbs on the way. 

Father & Mother Carter with all the Brothers and Sisters appertaining to the household, have 
been uncommonly attentive, kind, & generous to us both during the last year that we have been 
with them, although they do not see the propriety of our gathering with the Saints to Zion in 
order to escape the judgments of God. Yet my prayer to God is that they may not loose their 
reward for their uncommon kindness towards us but may yet have their eyes open to understand 
the Commandments of God concerning Zion in the last days & flee unto it for reffuge themselves 
& obtain a righteous inheritance there while the judgments of God are resting upon the gentiles & 
may they also have part in the first resurrection & finally obtain a Celestial Glory which is my 
prayer through JESUS CHRIST. 

Sept 12th I spent the day at father Carters in packing up the last remains of our goods. I Carried 
the most of our goods to Sister Sarah Foss's whare the Saints or camp will spend the night when 
they arive. Icabod C. Foss was expecting to go to Zion with us. He is a son of sister Sarah Foss 
but old Mr Foss opposed him to such a degree that it was thought best for him to tarry. 

13 We have had a hard rain during the day. Besides many favoreds bestowed upon us from father 
Carter he gave Phebe one hundred dollars for which sum we both signed an article or writing that 
we were satisfied & would hold no further Claim to any of his real estate or personal property. 

14th I accompanied Father Carter & Brother Fabyan, with Abial Carter & Timothey Roth & 
some others in a fish boat out into the bay for a fishing tour. The morning was pleasent after the 
storm but a high sea. We dug a quantity of clams for bait & launched forth into the deep. After 
beeting two miles we hove to cast anchor & caught a small quantity of fish mostly Haddock. 

We then sailed to a point of Land & built up a fire hung on a pot, fried out some pork & dressed 
6 Haddock & one Hake & put them into the pot. We sliced in some popatoes & put in a quantity 
of crackers & by adding some seasoning & boiling it untill it was throughly cooked it fonned as 
rich a dish as would be necessary to set before a King. This kind of a dish is what Seaman or 


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fisher man call a {chouder}. We all sat down & ate uncommonly hearty, useing clam shells for 
knives, forks, & spoons. 

After finishing our feast we again went out about a mile from shore & spent several hours more 
in fishing. We Caught a great variety of fish such as cod, Pollock, Hake, Haddock, Mackerel, 
Gunner, Flounders, Sculpin, pout, & Skate, &c. We hoisted Sail & started for home about the 
Siting of the Sun. We arived at father Carters about 8 oclock PM & spent the night. 

Our babe passed a sick night with the Hooping Cough. 20 m. 

15 My mind is in some suspens because the Camp does not arive from the Islands. Neither do I 
hear any thing from them by letter. The time has past for them to have arived. However I am 
looking for them daily. I spent part of the day in writing while most of the household have gone 
to the beach for a mornings ride. I have this morning receieved the returns of the late Election 
throughout the state of Maine. Mr Fairfield the democratic Candidate is elected Governor over 
Mr Kent by about 4,000 majority. 

Sept 16 Sunday I rode in company with Brother Fabyan Carter to Buxton & spent the day with 
Elder Townsend. We returned to Scarborough. I spent the night at Sister Sarah Foss's. Distance 
of the day 20 miles. 

171 spent the day at Father Carters reading the life of Lorenzo Dow. 

18^-1 receieved a letter from Brother Nathaniel Thomas dated Sept 12. They had not yet started. 
They had been delayed in waiting for some that were not ready. } I wrote a letter to Brother 
Thomas. I also wrote a letter to } Elder Milton Holmes. I spent the night at father Carters. WE 
have a total eclipse of the Sun this day commencing about 3 oclock PM & visible. 

19 Spent the day at Father Carters. Also the 20. 

2 1 } I receieved a letter from Priest Thomas. He informed me the Camp would be ready to start in 
few days. He wished me to pray to God to deliver them & enable them to go out of Babylon. 
Truly we all need patience & faith in God, for it is a day of temptation, trials, & trouble for the 
devil is exceding mad because the Saints are beginning to gather out from the midst of the 
gentiles & go unto the land of Zion. 

I wrode to Buxton to see Elder James Townsend to get him to go to the land of Zion with us & 
after having an interview with him he concluded to go with us. I Called upon Mr William 
Harmen & bargined for a two horse waggon on conditions. I returned & spent the night at father 
Carters. <Distance> 20 m. 

22 The sun is crossing the line about these days. We are visited with a stonn of rain to day. The 
weather is wann. I am still at father Carters & much desirous to see the Camp of the Saints. Our 
babe is recovering from the Hooping Cough. May its life be preserved I Pray if it is the will of 
the Lord. 


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23 Sunday I spent the day at Father Carters. 

24 I saw a report in the Portland Transcrip against the Mormons (Saints) in Davis County Mo 
which arose on the day of the election in consequence of our Brethren enjoying their privilege as 
American Citizens by casting their vote & that numbers were rising up among the gentiles of the 
different Counties to go over to Davis County to mob the Saints. All these reports & stories have 
a tendency to dampen & discourage the minds & feelings of many [of] the Saints that are 
gathering to Zion. But none of these things moove me. I am detennined to overcome, keep the 
faith & go to Zion. 

25 0 Lord give me faith, grace, & Patience to endure what is lade up me without murinering or 
Complaining. Help me to be resigned to thy will in all things. The report that I spoke of yesterday 
concerning the Mormon's in Mo as the Saints are Called, is going the rounds to day among our 
friends & neighbours. This one is saying it wont do to go & that is saying it will not do to go for 
you will be killed &c. But O, fools, slow at heart to believe that God is as able to protect his 
Saints in these last days from the hands of the gentiles as HE was anciently to deliver Israel from 
the Egyptians. Those things are the smallest part of my trials & suspens that is resting upon my 
mind at this time. 

My trials are as great about these days as at any time since I have been a member of the Church 
of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. If any inquires what my trials are, should they ask if I was 
doubting the Cause in which I am ingaged, I can answer in truth NO, God forbid. I never was a 
stronger Monnon (Saint) than about these days. 

What is the matter then? I'll tell you: The Lord has Commanded me to go to Zion spedily & 
while I am setting myself about it the devel with all his agents are using their combined exertions 
& power to hinder me. I have been waiting for the Saints from the Islands of the Sea to 
accompany them to that land untill it is vary late. The fall rains are upon us. Cold weather will 
soon encircle us. The minds of the Saints are depressed & cast down around me. We have a 
dreary journey of two thousands miles before us with no other expectation but to Camp upon the 
ground. I have a sick infant of two month's old to take with us & a wife whose spirits at times are 
much depressed under such severe trials. But thank God she stands the shock like a brave soldier 
which is great consolation to my soul. 

The above are some of the trials that are resting upon me. But I Can say get the behind me Satan 
for I say in the name of Jesus Christ that I will stand in the land whare God has commanded me 
to gather unto before another spring rolls over my head if it is on foot & alone & I beg my bread 
by the way. So now rage on thou foul monster untill thou art stoped in thy mad Career at the end 
of thy Chain given thee by the angel of God & see who will gain the victory. 

I spent the day at father Carters gathering apples. I saved some apple seeds from his orcherd to 
plant in Zion. 


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Sept 26th I rode to Elder James Townsend. I procured a two horse waggon of Mr William 
Harmon <for Sister Sarah Foss> & drew it to Sister Sarah Foss's. Elder Townsend returned with 
me. Distance of the day 20 m. 

27th It is a dark Cold rainy day & gloomy also, & what makes it more so the Camp of the Saints 
do not get along from the east yet, & I have not herd any thing from them for several days. But 
may the Ford give me patience that I may be resigned in all things. 

Notwithstanding the Cold rain I harnessed up my horse & Carried Brother Townsend home, & 
assisted him in packing up his houshold goods to the amount of about 600 lbs. I took the goods 
in my waggon & carried them to Sister Sarah Foss's house that we might be ready when the 
Camp came along. 

Elder Townsend has been Cast down in his mind for several days & Could scarcely get faith 
enough to prepare himself & family to start for Zion thinking the way did not look as Clear & 
bright as he wished to See it. 

But I have encouraged him from day to days as we must walk by faith not by Sight, untill he is 
now preparing himself & family to go. May the Ford bless him. We must all have our faith tried 
before we are prepared for a Celestial Kingdom & "faith without works is dead being alone." I do 
not know when my faith will begin to be tried if it has not already been esspecially of late. But I 
thank the FORD that HE has thus far enabled me to keep the faith & withstand every opposition. 
I desire to be humble unto the end. 

I spent the night at father Carters. Phebe appears resigned to the will of the Ford in all her 
troubles & tribulations. It is great Consolation to my Soul to see her detennined to maintain her 
integrity unto the end. How good it is to have a help meet in every time of need. Distance 20 mil. 

28th Glory to God I have this morning taken a letter out of the Office from our Beloved Brother 
Nathaniel Thomas in Camden. The letter was } Dated Camden Sept 26. He says "We are almost 
ready. We shall start tomorrow morning. Tell Brother Townsend to hold himself ready to go with 
us &c." May the Ford bless them & hasten them on their journey I pray. 

Their is more lying reports & stories in Circulation against the Saints to day. When will the 
gentiles scease lying about us? 

29 I rode to Brother Townsend's & assisted him in Packing up the rest of his goods & took them 
& the rest of his family & brought them to Sister Sarah Foss's house. 20 miles. 

30 Sunday Mr Whitley arived at Scarborough from Camden this day. He had been one week on 
the way. His waggon Cover was not in order for travling. We went to work & nailed it down all 
around & painted it thoroughly & put it in good order. We are waiting for the rest to come. I did 
not sleep much at night. 


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October 


Oct 1st It is unusally warm for the season. I conveyed Sister Rhoda Seamans home in a waggon. 
We are still waiting in great anxiety for the Camp to arive. O how slow they moove. 10 miles. 

2d Elder Townsend has this morning started for the east to look up the Camp of the Saints to see 
whare they are & what they are about that they do not get along. } I wrote a letter to Mr William 
Simonten for Mr Whitley. I spent the day in diging potatoes for father Carter. 

3rd <[— ]> Glory be to God at 2 oclock PM the Camp of Saints hove in sight. I immediately 
accompinied them to Sister Foss house, & a busy scene insued. The names of the Company were 
as follows: from South fox Islands Brother Charles Brown, wife & Children. From North Island 
Priest Nathaniel Thomas, wife & 3 children, Brother Ephraim Euce, wife & 5 children Cyrus 
Sterrett wife & 3 children Ebenezer Carver wife & 5 children. From Camden Daniel Whitley 
wife & 4 children. From Scarborough Elder Willford Woodruff wife & 1 child & Elder James 
Townsend wife & 4 children & a young man from the Island by the name of Alonzo Thurstin. 

The whole number of the camp was 45 persons. We had 10 waggons & 19 horses. 

We immediately commenced nailing & painting the waggon Covers & preparing them against 
stormy wether. I discoverd they needed a leader & order among them. I laboured with them untill 
in the night & then returned to father Carters & spent the night with my family. It was a trying 
time to Phebe as she was to part with all her relatives. But the Lord will support her in every trial. 

} } I wrote two Letters one to Elder T. B Marsh in Zion & the other to Elder M. Holmes. May the 
Lord enable us to reach Zion in peace & prosperity & spedily I pray. 

4th We spent most of the day in painting & preparing our waggons for the Journey. At about 2 
oclock in the afternoon I took the parting hand with Father & Mother Carter & their household, f 
Tears were shed but Mrs Woodruff manifested great fortitude in parting with her friends. 

After bidding them farewell and also parting with sister Sarah Foss & many neighbours that were 
present I made a commencement of leading this camp of the saints on their long journey. This 
Camp of the saints consisted of the following persons: From South fox Island Brother Charles 
Brown & family. From North fox Island Priest Nathaniel Thomas & family, Brother Ephraim 
Luce& family Cyrus Sterrett & family, Ebenezer Carver & family, & a young man by the name 
of Alonzo Thurstin. From Camden Daniel Whitley & family. From Scarborough Elder James 
Townsend & family, & Elder Willford Woodruff & family. This Camp consisted of 8 families 
the whole numbering 53 persons. We had 10 waggons & 19 horses & after being set in order we 
rode to Saco 4 miles to Kenebunk 9 miles & camped for the night by a saw mill. 

As the camp is not fully organized their is some bustle among us. 

It was for a moment a trial to my feelings to take my tender wife with an infant at her breast into 
a cold tent to sleep upon the ground but after we became reconciled to it there was a door opened 


Pagel91 




for her to go into a house to spend the night & as she had a young child she excepted the 
invitation. I lay down upon the bed that I had spread in the tent & after lying two hours I got up 
to stand on guard & I sat up the remainder of the night built up a fire & wrote thes lines by it. 
Distance of the day 13 m. 

Oct 5th We started 8 oclock & drove to Wells 8 miles to York 14, to Portsmouth 7, to Rye 5 
miles & Camped for the night & at Mr John Drake we had a beautiful day to Journey. Expenses 
of the day $5.30. Distance of the day 34 miles. 

6th We all arose bright in the morning & rode to Hampton 5 miles to Newburyport 10 miles to 
Georgetown 10 miles & spent the night at Elder Nathaniel Holmes. Elder Milton Holmes was at 
his fathers house. I truly felt to rejoice to once more take these brethren by the hand. We 
receieved every kindness & accomidations that heart could wish. I with my family spent the night 
with Mr Samuel Holmes. Distance of the day 26 miles. 

7th Sunday We spent the day at Br Holmes. I met in council with Elders Nathaniel & Milton 
Holmes & James Townsend in the morning. We next met all the members of the Camp & 
organized ourselves into a company that we might have order in the camp. I was chosen as their 
leader & Elder M Holmes as Comesary Ebenezar Carver as assistant. Our counsel was W. 
Woodruff M. Holmes N. Thomas & E Carver. We then met together with all the Saints & I once 
more was pennitted to break bread unto them. I accompanied Br N Holmes in the evening to visit 
Sister Dow who had fallen & injured her hip & we prayed with her & lade hands upon her. We 
then returned to Mr Samuel Holmes & spent the night. Distance 4 mile. 

8th We took the parting hand with Elder N. Holmes & family & again started on our journey 
accompanied by Elder Milton Holmes one with whom I had joumied much before. We rode to 
Andover 10 miles to Widow Wrights & camped in a beautiful meadow. Distance of the day 15 
miles. 

Oct 9th We travled to Groton 18 miles to Townsend 10 to Ashby 2 miles & camped for the night 
at Mr Calvin Hodgman & found the people exceding kind which has been the case thus far on the 
journey. Our babe is now in good health & vary quiet & rides in her swing cradle with great ease. 
Distance 30 m. 

10 We rode to Ashbumham to Mr Bemas Inn & put up for the night & had a storm. <Distance> 
26. 

1 1 Rode to Fitzwilliams, to Richmond & put up for the night with Mr Buffun. <Distance> 1 1. 

12 It was a rainy dull day. We rode to Winchester to Brattleborough & camped. <Distance> 18. 

13th This was a serious day to me. I arose in the morning with a severe cold & commenced 
walking up the foot of the green mountains. I was soon attacked with a painful dissease 
resembling the Collery. I stoped into a house while going up the mountains for about two hours 
during which time I was Constantly vomiting & purging after which I went to bed in my waggon 


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& Elder Holmes drove my horse for me. I called upon the elders to lay hands upon me. They did 
so & I was healed. We put up for the night at Mr Stephen Averetts Inn. Distance of the day all the 
way up the green mountains 18. 

14th Sunday I arose in the morning better in health. We had rain during the day. We reached the 
foot of the green mountain about dark & spent the night in Benington at Diltons Inn. Distance of 
the day 22. 

15 It is rainy & a gloomy day. We travled 12 miles through the mud & water & spent the night in 
Housack. 12. 

16 Some of our company [who] had been absent 3 nights to mend their waggons came up to day. 
We crossed waterford bridge over North river & Camped for the night at Mr Hegenson. 

<Distance of the day> 18. 

17 We Crossed the Mohawk river ferry travled to Schennectady & camped at Mr Vanvost. 
<Distance> 16. 

18 We rode to Amsterdam. Here Br Thomas stoped to get a new Iron Axletree to his waggon. 
<Distance> 25. 

19 A rainy morning again. We rode 5 miles to Mr William H Printup & put [up] for the day & 
night. We had a busy time. The woman were washing & cooking the children runing & crying & 
the men preparing their waggons &c. <Distance> 5 miles. 

20 We rode to Manhan & camped for the night at Mr Wm. Smith. <Distance> 25. 

21 <Traveling [-] the camp [— ].> Rode to frankford & spent the night. <Distance> 20. 

22 Rode to Utica to Westmorland. Spent [the night] at Benjamin Benjamins. Travled through rain 
& mud. 21. 

Oct 23 We sent a paper home to Maine. Rode 15 miles & camped. <Distance> 15 miles. 

24 Rode to mome & spent the night. {Orvel} myself wife & Child was sick. <Distance> 15. /On 
the 24 Oct T B Marsh made his Affidavit./ 

25 Rode to Syracuse to Camalias & spent the night. Brother Brown broke an axletree yesterday 
he broke an other. We seem to be impeded in our progress. We had a hail storm to day. 20 m. 

26 * * (25)This was a trying day to me. I broke open my barrel. Phebe was much tried. Rode 10 
miles. 10. 

27 We have troublesome times in the Camp. Several of the Children are vary sick. One of Br 
Thomas' Children is at the point of death. We travel slow & have many hindrences. We rode to 
the free bridge & camped 2 miles west of it. We had a vary bad road about 4 miles near the 
bridge. 12. 


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28 <Sunday> We travled through Phelps a beautiful township of land & to Manchester & spent 
the night at the house of Joseph Sawyier within six miles of Palmira whare the Book of Mormon 
was found. 20. 

29 A cold day. We had some snow. Our babe was still sick. We rode to Canandagua to east & 
west Broomfield to Lima & spent the night. <Distance> 25. 

30 We travled to Avon to Laroy & to the centre of Stafford & spent the night at the Inn. 26. 

3 1 A cold winter’s day. Snow 2 inch deep. Our horses draged the waggons all day through mud & 
water. We passed through Batavia & Rukville & spent the night. 21. 

November 

NOV 1st We had a bad road for 15 miles. We travled to williamsville & spent the night within 5 
miles of Buffalo. Distance of the day 20. 

2d We rode into Buffalo & spent several hours in the City. Elder M Holmes took the steam boat 
Erie for Fairport. We left Buffalo & travled to Hamburg & put up for the night at the farmers 
hotel. <Distance> 19. 

3rd Here we parted with some of our company. Brother Cyrus Sterrett & his family & Mr 
Whitley & family stoped & returned to Buffalo to spend the winter as the expenses was so great 
it was thought we could not all get to Zion this winter. So they stoped to labour & Br Thomas let 
them have a span of horses & a waggon to help them up in the spring. After taking the parting 
hand with these friends we rode through the rain to Evens & spent the night with David Cook. 
<Distance> 17 miles. 

Nov 4th Sunday We travled through the Cataraugus swamp. Had a view of the lamanite 
setthnent. We had a vary bad road. We travled through Fredonia & put up for the night at the Inn 
of Mr. Standly near the Church of Latter Day Saints at Pomphret under the Care of Elder 
Benjamin Brown's. <Distance> 20. 

5 I had an interview with Elder Brown. Sister Brown sent Phebe a small present. He sent $ 1 by 
me to get the papers for himself. He let me have the 4th No of the Journal. Our interview was 
interesting. Elder Brown had Baptized 18 in the pomphret church during the past season. 

We travled to Portland & while on the road we were called to pass through a trying scene. 

Brother Nathaniel Thomas has had two sick Children for several days & this afternoon one of 
them Clara Newel began to fall. They immediately stoped into a house near the Village of 
Westfield Chatauqua Co. NY & the child Died at 3 oclock PM on the 5th Day of Nov 1838. We 
immediately removed the corps one mile to westfield village to Mr J L Sprague's Inn whare we 
made preperations for burying the dead. Brother & Sister Thomas bore this affliction with 
uncommon fortitude. <Distance of the day> 15. 


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6th {CNT} We spent the morning in burying CLARA NEWEL THOMAS who was aged 5 years 
9 months & 16 days. After attending to these duties we harnesed our horses & proceded on our 
journey. It was a cold morning. We had to travel through mud & snow. We travled out of the 
state of NY into the state of Pensylvania. We past through North East & put up for the night at 
Wm. B Dickson's <an ungenerous man>. 17. 

7th We had a snow storm during the night. Our Company seemed much discouraged about 
getting along. I fell through a horse stable onto the horses but without much injury. We started on 
our journey & it commenced raining from the NE. We drove 7 miles in the mud, rain water & 
wind. I suffered much in travling through this beating stonn. We put up for the day & night at an 
Inn. 7 m. 

8th We travled to Erie Penn. From thence to Mill creek & put up for the night at Andrew 
Nickelson. 13. 

9 A dubious looking morning for the air is full of snow & a cold winters day. This is tedious 
jouming for horses, men women & children. How or when we shall get to Zion the Lord ownly 
knows. The Lord is sending snows upon the earth. We travled through snow & mud to an Inn 3 
miles east of Elk Creek & spent the night which was freezing cold. 5 miles. 

Nov 10th We crossed Elk Creek by fording the stream. Br Luce got his horses mired in mud but 
we drew him out & went on & passed through Springfield & put up for the night at the Inn of a 
good man from Vennont. 10. 

1 1 <Sunday> We travled to Conneaute. From thence to Ashtabula Ohio & spent the night at Mr 
Adna Scovill’s. 22. 

12 We spent the fore part of the day in preparing our horses or getting them shod. We travled to 
Mr Sweets Inn. 1 1 . 

13 We travled to painsville to Concord. Spent the night at A Hundy's. I had many reflections in 
passing through Painsville as this is the place whare the Saints have been much persecuted. I had 
a trial of mind in consequence of there being a prospect of leaving Elder Holmes in kirtland 
without visiting him. Thes are days not to be forgotten. 16. 

14th Elder Townsend finally Concluded to walk to Kirtland to visit M Holmes. We Continued 
our journey to Shardon. Many people stared at us as we passed through the village. We continued 
on about 2 miles & put up for the night at the house of Mr Truman Gilbert. He was a gentleman 
& treated us well. We got through this part of the country well without any trouble or 
disturbance. 11. 

15 It was a rainy day. We did not journey at all this day. 

16 We travled to Mantauway & spent the night at the Inn of Lewis Turners. Elders Holmes & 


Page 195 




Townsend were with us. Br Holmes had seen several letters (while in kirtland) that were sent 
from far west representing that there was great trouble among the saints caused by the inhabitants 
of Mo. comeing against them to war & persecuting them. 

Elder Milton Holmes has now made up his mind not to go any further with us but to tarry in 
kirtland or in the regions round about untill spring. We have had many interesting seasons 
together but I know not when we shall meet again or what we shall be called to pass through 
before that time. <Distance of the day> 16. 

17 We took the parting hand with M. Holmes & rode to Ravanna. From thence to Franklin 
Portage Co Ohio & spent the night with Mr Sewel Morgan. I learned from Mr Morgan that I am 
now in the vicinity of our fannington neighbours the sons of Abner & Baldwin Hart. The Goffs 
Elisha Miller & family live in Bath Madina Co Ohio about 8 miles from New Portage. 20. 

18 f I wrote a letter to the sons of Abner & Baldwin Hart. We travled through a cold snow stonn 
to Middlebury. From thence to New Portage. We found 2 or 3 Saints left of that branch of the 
church. We all spent the night with Brother Levi Way & Elder John Harrington. 15 miles. 

Nov 19th A cold morning. We left Br Way's & travled to the Inn of J.W.G. & spent the night. 8 

m. 

20 We have made arangments this morning to seperate. Brother Thomas & Townsend think some 
of stoping by the way to winter while Brothers E. Luce & C. Brown & myself will continue our 
journey together. Our company is truly getting small. One of my horses is vary sick for the night. 
Truly the Lord ownly can open my way to continue my Journey. After getting our waggon 
mended we travled to an Inn within 7 miles of woster & spent the night. My horse is much better 
& performs his Journey well. 12. 

Our company is now reduced to three families. We feel united in spirit & are determined to 
Journey in the name of the Lord. 

We had a Comfortable room at the Inn by ourselves for the night & while sitting by the fireside 
Sister Lydia Luce a faithful Saint & full of faith related a dream that she had on the night of the 
19th. The dream was of consequence & full of meaning. It was as follows: 

She saw the moon in the North of a silver Colour. She saw a small sun in the south & while 
looking at the strange appearance of the heavens there appeared a ring of Blood in the west & 
there soon appeared several other rings of Blood of a larger size all encircling each other being a 
ring in a ring & there soon appeared a ladder of fire in the heavens & it fell to the earth & broke 
in two pieces. One part of the ladder had an Iron plate fassened to the end of it with sumthing 
fassened to it & I Willford Woodruff went & picked it up & read it & behold it contained the XV 
Chapter of Isaiah. Read the chapter for yourselves & learn wisdom. 

21 st Travled to Woster to Washington & spent the night at the Inn of Robison a bad man. 
<Distance> 22. 


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22 Travled to Loudenville. From thence to Amity Knox county & spent the night at the Inn of 
David Jackson. We are continually hearing of the mormon war as it is Called. But it would be 
more proper to call it the gentile persecutions against the Saints for the inhabitants of Missouri 
are persecuting & putting to death the Saints because of their religion. <Distance> 20. 

23 Phebe was attacked with a severe head ake which tenninated in the brain fever. We travled to 
Mount Vernon to Centerbury & spent [the night] at the Inn of H Jones. 22. 

24 We passed through Sunbury & spent the night at the Inn of Mr Osbury in Blendon. 22. 

Nov 25 Sunday We spent the day at the Inn resting ourselves & beasts. We have had several days 
of warm plesent weather & good roads but this morning it snows some & is Cold. 

Mrs Woodruff is quit sick. The pain & fever is increasing in her head. We do not at all times 
know what lies before us. Lord prepare her to pass through all her trials I pray. 

;}■ I wrote a Letter to Brother Asahel H Woodruff in Terre haute. It was the last letter I ever wrote 
to Brother Asahel & he did not obtain that for he was in Eternity while I was pening those lines. 

26 We travled to COLUMBUS the capital of Ohio. This is the first time I ever visited this place. 
Here we Came on to the National rode & rod 9 miles & put up for the night at the National Hotel. 
20 . 

27 Phebe is vary sick. The jar of the waggon affects her head much & causes her to suffer. We 
rode [to] Jefferson. Here we left the National road & travled to London to Charleston & spent the 
night. 23. 

28 Phebe spent a sick night. I was fearful she would not be able to Journey. But we started & 
travled to Charleston & to Xenia a county seat. We spent the night at the Hotel. Phebe is vary 
sick & is failing. 2 1 . 

29 We travled to Dayton. From thence we crossed the Miami river at the ford & put up for the 
night at the Inn of E Weaver a villen. He treated us 111. Besides his wood & water was scarce & at 
the hiest price. <Distance> 16 miles. 

30 We travled to Andrew Clemen's & spent the night. Phebe still grows week. Brother Brown is 
also sick & we are all feeble. These are days of trial to me. I pray the Lord to assist us. 14. 

December 

Dec 1st I lost my penknife at Mr Clemens the ownly pocket knife that I had used for about 3 
years. It was a present from Elder Benjamin Clapp. 

This is the first day of winter. The weather is plesent But O the winter of Sorrow trying to roll 
over my soul. Our whole Company is much afflicted. We pased Br Thomas by the way side 


Page 197 




mending his waggon that had broke down. Brother Townsend is quite sick. 

I had not passed this afflicted company but few miles before I was called to stop my horses for 
the purpose to all appearance to Behold my wife my Companion give up the {GHOST} to 
breathe her last while lying in the waggon in the midst of the street. But while two of our sister 
were standing around her bedside to behold the scene the Lord was vary merciful & 
notwithstanding] to all human appearance her breath had left her body it again returned & she 
began to revive. I then drove the horses a few rods further & put up for the night at an inn in 
Eaton. I spent the night taking care of Phebe & the babe. O I pray the Lord to spare the life of my 
wife. 10 mile. 

Dec 2d Sunday Our Circumstances were of such a nature we were oblieged to remove from the 
Inn whare we spent the night. Phebe feels as though she had but a breath of life left in her body. I 
carried her into the waggon & drove 2 miles at the house of Mr Makinzie & put up for the 
present at least untill Phebe recovers her health in some degree or departs this life. We went into 
a house by ourselves which was much better than to be crouded by other families. How long we 
shall tarry here the Lord ownly knows. 

Brother Thomas passed us again to day. Brother Townsend was quite sick. After geting my wife 
& things into the house & my horses put out I confined myself to the taking Care of my wife 
which to human appearance is at the gate of death. She Called me to her bedside in the evening 
& said she felt as though a few moments more would end her existance in this life & manifested 
great confidence in the cause she had embraced & exhorted us to confidence & in God & to keep 
his commandments & to appearance was a dying but she again revived as on the day before. I 
prayed with her & lade hands upon her & commended [her] unto God. She revived & slept some 
during the night. 2. 

3rd I spent the day taking Care of my companion who is still alive. These are days of trial but 
may the Lord sanctify them to my good I pray. 

4th Phebe is still vary feeble & low. I returned to Eaton to get some necessarys for her. I felt the 
power of the destroyer resting upon me in the fore part of the day. 

In the evening Phebe for the first time during her sickness began to lay hold on faith for her 
recovery. Her faith was strong in God. We laid hold on faith together repented of all our sins & 
confessed them befor God & covenanted to keep his Commandments. I had some oil that was 
Consecrated for my anointing while in kirtland. I again Consecrated it before God for anointing 
the sick. I bowed myself down before the Lord & prayed with my companion & anointed her 
[with] oil in the name of the Lord. I laid my hands upon her in the name of JESUS CHRIST and 
rebuked the fever the destroyier the deadly malidy that was praying upon her system & thank 
God we both obtained a great blessing in so doing & according to her faith her fever left her & 
praised be the name of GOD for we will ever keep his commandments & trust in him. Praise the 
Lord O my soul for all of his wonderful acts. 


Page 198 




5th I spent the day in reading meditation & prayer. 

Dec 6th The voice of the spirit of the Lord was unto us arise & be going & through the mercy of 
God Phebe was enabled to rise & walk & continue her journey after being confined here 4 days 
our whole bill was ownly $6.62. The man treated us kindly. May the Lord bless him. We travled 
to Richmond la & put up for the night in an Inn. Phebe had to Journey by faith not by Sight. 14 
mile. 


7th We left Richmond on the national road & travled to Centerville. From thence through several 
flourishing little villages on the national road in the woods looking as though they had sprung up 
in the night like Jonah's goard. We put up for the night at the Inn of Wm. D Harden. The 
National road was smoothe & good. The whole distance 21. 

8 We travled to Louisville Henry County la. We here again found Br Thomas & family & 

Brother Townsend & family stoped to winter. Brother Townsend was sick. We stoped & spent 
about 2 hours with them & Prayed with them & took the parting hand & continued our Journey to 
Knightstown and spent the night. 1 7. 

9 <Sunday> We travled to Greenfield & to Cumberland & spent the night. It is cold weather. 21. 

10 We travled to Indianapolis the capital of the state. From thence to plainfield. Distance 23. 


1 1 The road was dry smooth & dusty & the weather warm. We travled to Menhaten & spent the 
night at an Inn whare I suddenly herd of the DEATH OF BROTHER ASAHEL H. WOODRUFF, 
Who DIED at Terre Haute Indiania on the 18th of Oct 1838 at 3 oclock in the morning. 


I also read in the Wabash Courier published at Terre Haute an account of the Administrators sale 
of the property of Brother ASAHEL. It was sold on the 4th of Dec for about $3,000 dollars. Mr 
Robert A Smith was his Administrator. 


O Brother Asahel thou art gone. I shall warn thee no more nor see thy face in the flesh untill the 
resurrection. How uncertain is life. How sudden thy earthly hops have fled! !!!!!!!!!!!!! 

* (27)1 also read in the same paper an account of the horrid butchery of eighteen Latter Day 
Saints in Davis County Mo by the wicked mob. O Lord hasten the day for the reign of 
righteousness. 3 1 . 

121 rode to Terre haute la. on the beautiful national road through delightful scenery of that 
country. I drove to Asahel H. Woodruffs Wabash Book store & instead of finding Br Asahel 
there he was in his {grave} & his store occupied by his Administrator & Clerk viz R A Smith & 
Martin Ray. I had an interview with his Clerk Martin Ray. I made Inquiries concerning Brother 
Asahels sickness & Death but defered attending to his business untill the following day. It was 
with difficulty that we could get entertainment in the city for the night but finally we obtained an 


Page 199 




empty house & went into it & spent the night. Distance 27. 


{ASAHEL H. WOODRUFF 
DIED at Terre Haute la. 

Oct 18th 1838 
AGED 24 Years} 

And is he gone? Has Asahel fled away from lif s fair scenes to the regions of the DEAD? YES he 
is gone by Deaths relentless hand. Had youth, or beauty, friends or virtue, power to Save He now 
might be mingling with his friends, and not sleeping in the silent GRAVE. 


There is nothing calculated to sooner lead the mind to serious & solumn meditations & to bring 
fresh to our memory the events of our past lives than to visit the tomb of those that are made dear 
to us by the ties of nature, of friendship, or of the blood of CHRIST. Brother Asahel was a young 
man of the most brilliant talents, firm & independant in his principles. 

I had not been privileged with a personal interview with him for about seven years but had 
corresponded together by letter. Asahel had a peculiar art in letter writing which gave much 
interest to all the productions of his pen. We both had long anticipated much upon an interview 
with each other but my hopes were suddenly blasted. I did not hear of his death untill the day 
previous to my arival at his dwelling. But I say the will of the Lord be done. All is right. I feel 
resigned. 


O death thy stroke is sure. At an early hour thy victim's fallen, & blasted the fond hopes of a 
father a mother & an ownly Sister. Eunice be still & know that GOD hath spoken, & thy Brother 
Called. Asahel lived for thee: for thee he plan’d, he toiled, & hoped, & airy castles built for thy 
future joy, but now he's gone. His grave remains to be wattered ownly by the Dews of heaven 
unless upon the Wabash banks a friend should chance to roam & drop an accidental tear. 

O Asahel among strangers thy lot was cast. Among them thou hast fallen & found a grave. No 
friend to see thy grief or share thy joy or drop a tear with thee. Willford & Phebe alone marked 
thy silent bed & ownly could take a pebble in memory of thy noble soul. A pebble did I say? Ah 
thy books, thy Journals, thy letters, & all the productions of thy pen, are standing monuments of 
thy worth & of more value to thy friends than the gold of Opher or the rubies of Peru. 

In the morn of thy days thou hast fallen. Yet the events of thy youth will be active in the memory 
of thy friends while memory lives. Methinks the spirit steals across my breast & says be still & 
leam to be resigned & feel that with thy brother all is well that what was not accomplished with 
him in time will be finished when COLOB’S walls he stands clothed with Immortality. God is 
just. All is right. In the morn of his days Asahel is called from the scenes of time that his noble 
soul may see, feel, & view those glories which are hid behind the vale the covering of eternity. 


Page200 




Farewell Asahel farewell. NO more will thy voice the ears of thy friends salute or thy pen their 
hearts unlock, while here in time. Truth unsuled before the now are living realities, while bounty 
but not in vain though buried from human view. Then sleep untill the trump shall sound to call 
the forth in eternal things to act. Eunice dry thy startling tear & give thy brother up. The Lord 
hath taken him to save his soul that earthly snares should not his feet enwrap & his fall secure. It 
speaks in language loud be ye also ready, for in such an hour as ye think not the son of man 
cometh. 

How solumn to part with friends. Yet it sweetens death to know our friend is God & the rest of 
Saints our home. Then sleep Asahel sleep. Let naught thy dust dlsturd untill reanimated by the 
Ark angels trump & in immortals [gate?] to meet thy friends & walk in paths of eternal light & 
truth & comprehend all knowledge & wisdoms space & natuers laws that ever live in vast 
DOMAIN. 

Dec 13th This was a solemn Day to me. I spent most of the day in inquiring into & attending to 
the business & affairs of Brother ASAHEL H. WOODRUFF Deceased. Messrs R. A. Smith & 
Martin Ray the Administrator & Clerk of Brother Asahel infonned me that Brother Asahel Died 
at 3 ocloak in the morning on the 18th of Oct 1838 & that he was sick 10 days & deprived of his 
reason 4 days before his death. His mind while dellreous was principly upon his business but 
occasionally spoke of his friends. His disease was the Congestlye fever on the brain. Martin Ray 
had been in his employ two months. Was with him through all his sickness & death. 

They informed me that they Considered him some absent minded or his mind deeply exercised 
upon some subject unbeknown to them for several months before his death. They were not as 
well acquainted with this matter as I was myself for I was intimately corresponding with him by 
letter & I know from his communications that his mind was deeply interested in the subject of the 
gospel of Jesus Christ or the fulness of it & the cause of the Church of Latter Day Saints. They 
also informed me that he was moral in his life temperat in practice Beloved & honoured as a 
citizen & his loss deeply felt. 

His entire stock of Books with all personal property was sold at the Administrator sale on the 4th 
of Dec amounting to about $3,000 dollars. All of his private letters, Journals, writing papers 
Account Books & his pocket watch, penknife, pencil, letter stamp, bosom pin, silver thimble, & 
some other small things were reserved & I took them into my possession to preserve for his 
Mother & ownly Sister & friends untill I can have an opportunity to convey them unto them. 
While looking over Asahels letters I found all that I sent him carefully filed with other 
Communications from his friends. 

After attending to the above affairs I visited my Brother {grave} {A.H.W.} accompanied ownly 
by my wife & Mr Ray. I viewed it, & it looked lonely indeed. I never more fully sensed the 
vanity of earth & the impropriety of trusting to the honours of this world for happiness than on 
this occasion. I took some pebbles from his grave in memory of the spot & retired with this 
peculiar reflection resting upon my mind: 


Page201 




That I had paid my last visit to my eldest Brother without spending a night beneath his roof. 

That I had paid my last visit to my youngest Brother & ownly pennitted to view his GRAVE. 

I returned to his Book store & Wrote a Letter to our Parents in Farmington Con } giving an 
account of Asahels Death &c. I took the parting hand with Mr Smith & Ray & left Terre Haute & 
crossed the Wabash River into the state of Illinois & travled 9 miles & put up for the night. 9 
miles. 

Dec 14th We travled to Paris Illinois. From thence we crossed a part of the grand prairie to the 
distance of 15 miles. The weather was plesent & warm the roads smooth & dusty. I saw the 
prairies on fire. We spent the night at the Inn of Isaac Kellar. 25. 

15 We Crossed an 18 mile prairie & put up for the night at the house of John Camel on the east 
fork of the Ocaw river standing on the identical spot whare I Camped with the Saints in the 
spring of 1 834 after crossing the river in two Canoes. 23 m. 

16 Sunday I sent a paper to our friends in Scarborough. We travled through a 14 mile prarie & a 
12 mile prairie with a snow stonn & we put up for the night at R. P. Ren. 26. 

17 Travled 12 miles & put up for the night. 12. 

18 We travled through several small prairies. The largest was 7 miles. We put up for the night at 
the house of David Millers. It was a cold day. Distance 26. 

19 What strange things happen at times. We travled 2 miles to Rochester Sangamon County 
Illinois. Here we unexpectedly found Mr Ebenezar Carver & family. They left us at Utica NY & 
took the Canal & lake. They had stoped here in Rochester to spend the winter: We called in to 
visit them a few moments not expecting to tarry but an hour as it were. But after calling in we 
concluded to spend the night & during the evening I had an interview with Elder Arnold 
Stephens. 

I was informed that we could not cross the Illinois River in consequence of the Ice. I also learned 
that the Saints in Zion far west were suffering the severest persecutions & privation & we Could 
not travel through that Country & with all these Combination of Circumstances we Concluded to 
stop for a season whare we were as doors were open unto us in the regions of Rochester & that to 
among the Saints that had taken up there abode in the place for a season. 

} I wrote a letter to sister Eunice. 2 miles. 

20th I spent the day in preparing a dwelling to moove into for a season as we all Concluded to 
stop for a while. I procured a house 3 miles north of Rochester in a grove of woods on the 
borders of a prairie on the farm of Widow Branch to spend the winter in. It was a double house & 
Brother Joseph Coone is living in one part of it. 


Page202 




21 We spent the day in searching for dwellings for Brothers Brown &Luce & their families. 

3 1 This is the last day of Dec & of 1838. During the last 10 days I have been engaged in 
preparing our dwelling & procuring food for my family it being the first of my housekeeping. In 
looking over my Journal of 1838 I find the account as on the following page: 


{ 

IN 1838 


I travled on three Islands of the Sea & in twelve of the United States making a distance in all of 
five thousand three hundred & fifty one miles. 

5,351 miles 

I held ninety six meetings. 

96 

I baptized seventeen persons five of which were my kinsfolk. My father & mother & ownly sister 

were among the number. 

17 baptized 

I ordained one Elder, two Priest & one teacher. 

4 ordained 

I blessed four Children. 

4 blessed 

I held two Conferences. 

2 conferences 

I procured nine subscribers for the Elders Journal. 

9 subscribers 

There was two persons healed under my hands. 

2 

I wrote fourty one Letters. 

41 letters 

I received twenty six Letters. 

26 letters 

I Confirmed 

22 Persons 

I esstablished 4 Preaching Places & Planted 1 Church numbering 9 members. 

} 


The Second Book of Willford for 1839 

January 


Page203 



JAN 1st 1839 As I am now labouring with my hands for a temporal support for a season I shall 
not keep a daily Journal for a short time but merely note such things as I may deem necessary. 
During the last two days I have been repairing a grist mill. 10. 

20th } I wrote a letter to Father Carter of Maine. I have spent this month at hard labour. I have not 
as yet seen any of the brethren from far west to know how they get along. 

February 

Feb 3d ^ I wrote two letters one to Sister Eunice & the other to Elder A. O. Smoot in far west 
Mo. I now learn that persecution still rages in Zion. Joseph the Prophet with all the presidency & 
many of the Elders are in bonds & imprisonments & counted among transgressers. 

18th } I wrote a letter to Brothers Azmon & Thompson Woodruff. I spoke of Asahels death &c. 

22d } I received a letter from Father Carter of Maine Dated Feb 7th. It has been exceding dry & 
warm during this month. I have laboured hard for the last few days Choping & spliting rails. 10. 

March 

March 1st This is my birth day. I am 32 years of age. I spent the day choping & spliting rails with 
Brother Albert Smith. It is friday. 

4th I receieved a letter from } my Mother Dated Feb 8th 1839. 

7th I made preperations to attend the conference in Springfield. 

CONFERENCE 

Springfield 111 Friday March 8th 1839 

Minutes of a Conference of Elders Priest & c held in Springfield in the brick meeting house 
occupied by the Campbellites commencing on the day of the date above. At about 1 1 oclock the 
house was called to order by Edwin P. Merriam the Presiding Elder of the Springfield branch 
who lead the house to the Choice of a moderater. Elder Jonathan Dunham was chosen to act as 
moderator & Elder Edwin P Merriam as clerk. Elder Wilford Woodruff opened the conference by 
prayer. The conference was composed of eight of the quorum of seventies 6 Elders 3 Priests 3 
Teachers 1 Deacon & 3 members. 

The moderator then requested the Brethren present to give in there views their feelings & 
determinations in regard to things pertaining to the kingdom of God & if they had any hardness 
or grievances against any of the Brethren or sisters in the Church of Christ to make it manifest. 
Most of the brethren then present arose seperately & gave their statements as requested above & 
all declared that they had nothing lade up against any one but all desired the wellfare & 
prosperity of Christ Kingdom on the earth. 


Page204 




Elder Woodruff then gave an address to the conference laying before them many things which he 
had experianced & teaching also many things which are of the greatest importance to those who 
are going forth to labour in the Lords vineyard &c. 

Br Joseph McCausland was recommended for ordination from the branch in Jacksonville & was 
ordained an Elder under the hands of Elders W. Woodruff J. Dunham & D. Carter. Br James 
Higby was presented from this branch but some objections were raised against him. Therefore 
the subject was waved. Br Brewster was then presented for ordination. After some inquiries were 
made & some objections raised the mind of the conference was called by a vote & all but 3 who 
were present were in favor of his recieving an ordination. 

Voted to adjourn till tomorrow morning at 8 oclock. Preaching in the evening to a respectable 
congregation by Elder Woodruff. 

Saturday morning met & opened the meeting by singing & Prayer by the Moderator. The people 
soon began to collect to hear preaching. Consequently the meeting was adjourned until 6 olock in 
the evening to be held in the room of Br Reuben Daniels. Preaching in the forenoon by Elder 
Arnold Stephens. Preaching in the Afternoon by Elder W. Woodruff. 

Saturday evening the Conference met according to adjournment at the room of Br Daniels. Sung 
an hymn. Called upon the Lord in prayer in behalf of Br Starks who had sent to the brethren to 
pray for him for he was vary sick that he might be healed. We lade hands on Br Stephen Mecham 
who was unwell, Also on Br Nathan Staker who was also 111. 

Priest Jonathan Fisher was presented for ordination from this branch. Voted that Br Fisher be 
ordained an Elder. Br Joshua Mecham was presented for the ordination of a Priest & passed. Br 
Samuel Mulner was also recommended for the office of an Elder & Passed. These three just 
named candidates was then ordained to their respective offices under the hands of Elder 
Woodruff & others. 

The question of Br Brewster was again brought up before the conference & after a lengthy 
discussion upon the Subject untill near break of day it was found some 3 or 4 could not be made 
willing that he should receive an ordination. The question was therefore waved for the present. 
Voted to adjorn. 

Edwin P Merriam Clerk of Said Conference 

Concerning the case of Brother Brewster I was one that opposed his ordination & I was much 
surprised that both the chainnan & Clerk did not do the same instead of urging it forward. For Br 
Brester maintained the same principle & possessed the same spirit for which he was cut off from 
the church in kirtland by the high Council & even in this case he Came forward & demanded the 
High & Holy priesthood at our hands in the name of Jesus Christ. I did not consider this to be the 
way that Aaron took the ministry upon himself. Consequently I opposed it & the spirit of God 
opposed it also & after a struggle truth prevailed. 


Page205 




March 13th I being pressed in spirit to go to Quincy Adams County Illinois to visit the body of 
the Church which had fled to that place to find an asylum for a season from the perilous 
persecutions that they were receiving by the Inhabitants of the State of Missouri, it being about 
120 miles from Rochester. Quincy stands on the bank of the Missisippi River. I accordingly set 
out for this purpose accompanied by my wife & child & also Brother & sister Stephens. We Rode 
to Springfield & dined with Brother Whittle. From thence we rode to Brother John Herrets & 
spent the night. We had a plesent interview together. Distance 32 mi. 

14th Rode to Jacksonville visited some of the Saints & rode to Exeter & dined with Brother 
Phineas Young. From thence to Brother Samuel Fowler & spent the night. Sister Fowler was 
formerly the wife of Brother Seth Hitchcock who died with the Cholera in Mo in 1834 as a 
member of our tent. Distance 25. 

15th We spent the night after travling 27 miles with Mr Platt. 27. 

16th MOST INTERESTING DAY I rode to Mr Cleavelands & once more had the happy 
privilege of greeting Sister Emma Smith who had taken up her abode for a season with her 
Children in the house of Sister Cleavland. We dined with Sister Smith. She had passed through a 
scene of affliction since I last saw her & even now Joseph her husband is in prison with other 
Saints through the power of Persecution. 

We next rode to Quincy 4 miles & here an interesting scene presented itself to my view. I first 
called at a house which was occupied by Father & Mother Smith the Patriarch of the Church & 
also Samuel & Carlos & their families. I then went out into the street & the Saints that I have 
formerly been acquainted with met me on every hand such as Percy, Clapp, Allexander & A. O. 
Smoot & their families from the south, & B. Young John Tailor, J. P Green R Cahoon, B 
Andrews A & S Milliken with most all of the other Kirtland Saints & soon Br Jonathan H. Hale 
comes along with a shovel on his back & says how do you do Brother Woodruff & in fact I saw 
so many of my old friends I hardly knew who to go home with first. 

Finally I Concluded to go & spent the night with Brother Hale & we had an interesting time 
together in talking about our travels together upon the Islands of the Sea & also Br Hale gave me 
an account of his sufferings & those of his family & all the Saints in Missouri during the past 
winter. For they have suffered much from the inhaditants of Missouri who have turned mob with 
Governour Bogs at their head. They came upon the Saints from time to time in battle aray. They 
shot the Saints down like wild beasts & butcherd others in cool blood &nocked the brains out of 
some after they [had] taken them prisioners. The soldiers shot down the cattle cows & hogs of 
the Saints for the purpose of destroying them. 

The Saints at times stood in their own defence & some of their enemies fell befor them & In 
consequence of which the Governour Issued orders for the final extermination of the Saints out 
of the State & sent a general after his own heart to execute his orders forthwith & this is the 
cause of there leeving the State & coming to Quincy. The whole City far west had to surrender to 


Page206 




the malicia. The Presidency with about 60 others was cast into prision & chains. They are all 
delivered excepting eleven persons. The mob used every exertion to take the life of Joseph & 
others but through the mercy of God there lives were in the hands of God & not there enemies. 

Elder David W. Patten one of the Twelve Apostles of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day 
Saints Chosen to bear the keys of this last kingdom was one of the marters of the persecution in 
Missouri in the winter of 1838 he sealed his testimony with his Blood. He died strong in that 
faith that he had boldly declared through the U.S.A. for the last 7 years of his life &c. Distance 
20 m. 

17th Sunday I held a council in the morning with Elders B. Young & J. Taylor of the Twelve. We 
then met with the Church in Quincy. B. Young took the lead of the meeting & gave much 
important instruction. There was a Letter read from the committy in Far West praying the 
Brethren in Quincy to send teams & money for the removing of fifty families of poor Saints from 
far west to Quincy. There was a contribution taken up for the purpose. About $50 dollars & a 
number of teams to go. 

We then communed together & the meeting Closed & a Council followed. I was called upon to 
state to the council the procedings of the conference in Springfield & after laying before them the 
procedings of that conference the Council of the Church in Quincy voted that Elder Jonathan 
Dunham be reproved for Calling a conference in Springfield but more esspecially for cherishing 
& fellowshiping that wrong spirit of Brewsters. They also voted that Elder Dunham make 
confession & satisfaction to the Church in Springfield before he procede on his Journey. 

The Council then adjourned untill early candle light at which time they met & continued untill 
midnight & then adjourned. I returned to Br Hales & spent the night. 

March 18th I spent the day in Quincy visiting the Saints. I visited the family of Br Lyman Wight. 
Sister Wight was well & her Children. Brother Wight was still in prison in Liberty Clay Co Mo 
with Joseph, Hiram, & others. I also obtained my trunk that had been in the hands of Sister Wight 
for a number of years. It contained some of my Journals that I wrote in New Hartford con. 

I visited a number of families that had Camped on the bank of the river. They were in a suffering 
Condition with Cold, rain & mud & some the want of food. I visited the Brothers Higbys &c. 
After spending the day in this manner & holding a council with two of the Twelve whare It was 
decided that the twelve immediately moove their families to Quincy that we might be together in 
council, I again spent the night with Br Hale. 5 miles. 

19th I spent the day in Quincy. It rained hard, f I wrote a letter to Elder M Holmes. 

20th We left Quincy in the rain to return home at Rochester. We had not proceded far before our 
horses got stalled in the mud & broke the waggon tongue. We soon got out mended up & went 
on. We rode 14 miles & spent the night a[t] friend Clark. 14. 

21st Rode to New Liberty. From thence to Kingston & called on Br Wilber. From thence to 


Page207 




Philips ferry. Crossed by moon light & spent the night with Mr Perry a friendly man to the 
Saints. 37 m. 

22st Rode to Exeter. Called on Brother Fowler. Found a sick man healed that we lade hands upon 
as we went up. We called upon Phineas Young & rode to Brother Herret's & spent the night. 37. 

23d Rode to Springfield. I called the Church together in order for a council. They came together 
at candle light at the room of Br Daniels. The house was called to order. Elder Willford 
Woodruff was called to the Chair & Elder Edwin P. Merriam Clerk. 

I opened the meeting by prayer & addressed the Church in great plainness one hour. As Elder 
Dunham had transgressed openly before the Church I rebuked him openly & protested against the 
spirit he possessed & maintained during the Springfield Conference ie the Brewster Spirit. Elder 
Simeon Carter followed me & maintained the principle with me & so did the others that spoke. 
Elder Jonathan Dunham arose & confessed his fault & asked forgiveness & also Br Brewster & 
some others & we forgave them all. 

I next made a request of the Church to make a Collection in the behalf of the poor Saints in Far 
West or for their removal & their was about $70 dollars donated for this purpose & a messenger 
immediately sent to Quincy with the money for that purpose. We then closed our Council & I 
spent the night with Br Whittle. The Distance of the day 24. 

24th Sunday I returned to my dwelling in Rochester. 

25th } I wrote to Br Nathaniel Thomas, mil. 

April 

April 1 st I have spent several days drawing rails & settleing my business in order to move to 
Quincy. 

3rd T ^ (28)My life from my childhood hath ever been attended with a continued succession of 
the greatest dangers & misfortunes almost that are incident to human life. I was this morning also 
delivered by the mercy of God out of great dangers while riding upon the running part of a 
waggon without the box the bolt droped out of the reach or cupling pole & I was sitting upon the 
bolster over the foremost wheels & the waggon parted & I was immediately closed or shut up 
between the bolster & tongue. The horses being frightend they ran with me & dragged me upon 
the ground for several minutes. I was soon enabled to run the horses into a fence & stoped them 
untill I could extricate myself from the difficulty. 

April 8th I took the parting hand with the Saints in Rochester & left for Quincy with my family. I 
passed through Springfield [and] Jacksonville. Crossed the river at Philips ferry. We arived in 
Quincy on the 16th being 8 days on the road during which time I was severely afflicted with sore 
eyes. The whole distance 120 miles. 


Page208 




17th I settled my family in Quincy & prepared myself to accompany the twelve to fulfill a 
certain revelation & commandment of the Lord which required us to take our leave of the Saints 
at far west on the 26th day of April 1839 for the nations of the earth. 

April 18th 1839 I left Quincy in company with three of the Twelve viz. Brigham Young Orson 
Pratt & John Taylor also George A Smith & father Cutler for the purpose of visiting far West. 
We travled to the ferry oposite of Marion City & crossed the river & spent the night at the bluff. 
Distance of the day 24 miles. 

19 Rode to Clinton & spent the night. <Distance of the day> 34 miles. 

20th Rode 30 miles & Camped. 

21st <We?> passed through Huntsville. Crossed a 9 mile prairie. The rods were full of the Saints 
that were fleeing from Missouri to Illinois for they were driven from their houses & lands by the 
State with Governour Boggs at their head & that to against all law rights & the Constitution. 30. 

22 Passed through Kettsville & rode 30 miles & camped. 30. 

23rd Rode to a groove 6 east of Tenys groove. 3 1 m. 

24th We spent the day at the groove. 

25th We Rode to far west & spent the night at the house of Br Morris Phelps. Br Phelps was still 
in Prision. 30. 


April 26th 1839 The events of this day are worthy of record for a Revelation of God & 
commandment is this day fulfilled & that to under Circumstances which to all human 
appearance could not have been done. The Lord had given a Commandment to the Twelve to 
assemble upon the building spot of the house of the Lord in far west Caldwell Co Mo on the 26th 
day of April & there take the parting hand with the Saints to go to the nations of the earth. (See 
Aug 10th 1838.) But persecution had arisen to such an highth that about ten thousand souls of the 
Saints had been driven from the State, & the city far west almost made desolate & lade waste 
while at the same time the Presidency Joseph & his council with other Elders were in prision & 
they had been under the sentance of death several times because of their religion & they would 
have been put to death had not the Lord saved them for their lives were in his hands & 
notwithstanding the lives of those men were preserved yet there were about thirty five souls 
martered & put to death. David W. Patten one of the Twelve Apostles were among the marterd. 
And not ownly so but the Missourians had sworn that the revelation above alluded to should not 
be fulfilled. 

It was in the midst of these imbaressments that we mooved forward to the building spot of the 
house of the Lord in the City of far west & held a Council & fulfilled the revelation & 


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Commandment & took our leave of the Saints & rode 32 miles & Camped. 32 miles. 

COUNCIL 

At a Council held at Far West by the Twleve, High Priests, Elders, & Priests on the twenty Sixth 
of April 1839 The following resolutions were adopted: 

Resolved that the following persons should be no more fellowshiped in the Church of Jesus 
Christ of Latter Day Saints but excommunicated from the Same, viz. Isaac Russel, Mary Russel, 
John Goodson & wife, Jacob Scott senr. & wife, Isaac Scott, Jacob Scott jun. Ann Scott, Sister 
Walton, Robert Walton, Sister Cavanaugh, Ann Wanlass, William Dawson Sen & wife, George 
Nelson, Joseph Nelson & wife & Mother, Wm. Warnock & wife, Jotham Magnard, Nelson 
Magnard, George Miller, Br Griggs & wife, George Walters, Luman Gibbs, Simeon Gardner & 
Freeborn Gardner. 

The Council then proceded to the building spot of the Lords house when the following business 
was transacted: Part of a Hymn was sung on the mission of the Twelve. Elder Cutler the Master 
workman of the house then recommenced laying the foundation of the LORD'S house agreeable 
to revelation by rooling up a large stone near the South east corner. 

The following of the Twelve were present: Brigham Young, Heber C. Kimble, Orson Pratt, John 
E. Page, & John Taylor, who proceded to ordain (on the chief comer stone of the building) 
Willford Woodruff & George A. Smith, (who had been previously nominated by the first 
Presidency, accepted by the Twelve, & acknowledged by the Church,) to the office of the Twelve 
to fill the place of those who had fallen. Darwin Chase & Norman Shearer (who had Just been 
liberated from Richmond prison whare they had been confined for the cause of Jesus Christ) 
were then Ordained to the office of the Seventies. 

The Twelve then offered up vocal Prayer in the following order: Brigham Young, Heber C 
Kimble, Orson Pratt, John E. Page, John Taylor, Willford Woodruff & George A. Smith, after 
which we Sung Adamondi ahmon & then the Twelve took (the parting hand) their leave of the 
following Saints agreeable to revelation: Alpheus Butler, Elias Smith, Norman Shearer, Wm. 
Berton, Stephen Markham, Shedrick Roundy, Wm. C. Clark, John W. Clark, Hezekiah Peck, 
Darwin Chase, Richard Howard, Mary Ann Peck, Artimisha Grainger, Martha Peck, Sarah 
Granger, Theadore Turley, Hiram Clark & Daniel Shearer. 

Elder Alpheus Cutler then placed the stone before alluded to in its regular position after which in 
consequence of the peculiar situation of the Saints he thought it wisdom to adjourn untill some 
future time when the Lord should open the way expressing his detennination then to procede 
with the building. *********** (29)See Sept 25 th 1838. 

{========================= 

Written upon the Death of Elder David W. Patten who was martered in Missouri in 1838 for the 
word of God & the testimony of Jesus Christ. He was the first marter of the quorum of the 


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Twelve Apostles of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints chosen to build up the 
kingdom of GOD & prepare for the coming of Christ. 


Hear O earth, Israel thy dark slumber break as the American gentile trembles at the thought that 
an angel again should visit the earth & the abundance of light & truth reveal, which lays babyions 
mighty towers in desolations vault, while Zion proves a refuges for the Saint that is prepared for 
the second Comeing of Jesus Christ. 

The fulness of times arived. A youth of the loins of ancient Joseph cries to God. The veil of 
eternity rends in twain. To earth an angel bends his way & comforts a Joseph’s heart while light 
& truth enwrap[es?] his soul. Truth startels from the dust to do its work. Like the Unicorn 
Ephraims horns appear in the rolling of the kingdom of God, to rend the garb of ignorance & 
superstitions reign to make room for the Church of Christ as out of the wilderness she comes to 
stand upon the earth in human view with all her perfect body. 

Twelve apostles of Jesus Christ were Chosen, & DAVID PATTEN whose life with Christ was 
hid in God among them stood, & being clothed with the spirit of his mission he went forth in 
defence of the Word of God. His voice was herd, from Maine to Missouri he blew the gospel 
trump. At his command the blind did see, the lame did leap, the sick were healed, & light & truth 
prevaled. Plain in his precept faith his constant shield, he feared no power of earth. By the power 
of the Holy Ghost oft the Priesthood he confered. Willford received it from under his hand while 
the spirit bore testimony of its truth. But David’s earthly mission was of short duration. Seven 
years closes his apostleship among men & wafts his faithful soul to a glory celestial. 

David hath fallen. Did he fall alone? No about thirty of the Saint because of their religion hath 
found one common grave & with them American liberty is buried, & cast a dark Stain upon the 
eagles breast, Because American sons have her sons oppressed. Missouri is the first her countrys 
laws to disgrace. Among her bloody deeds she's pierced an Apostles breast with lead & stolen a 
valuable life, & exterminated ten thousand Saints from the State. Blessed be David who Died in 
faith, in peace, with Heber by his side he gave up the GHOST. 

=========================} 

April 27th We had entered into a covenant to see the poor saints all mooved out of Missouri into 
Illinois that they might be delivered from under the hand of such vile persecution & we have 
spared no pains to accomplish this object untill the Lord hath given us the desires of our hearts in 
this thing & we have now the last company of the poor with us that can be removed. 

Br Parley P Pratt one of the Twelve & Morris Phelps are still in Prision & of course we shall be 
under the necessity of leaving them for a season. 

Early this morning we commenced our Journey from this groove in upper Missouri to return to 
Quincy 111. The company Consisted of Seven of the twelve & a number of the Committy & 


Page21 1 






several other families of the Saints. We continued our Journey & crossed the Missisippi River on 
the Steam ferry at Quincy on the 2nd Day of May & spent the night with my family in Quincy 
being 6 Days on the rode from the {R} grove to Quincy & travled 163 miles. Distance 163 miles. 

May 

May 3rd This was an interesting day to my soul. I left Quincy in Company with five others of the 
Twelve & rode four miles out of town to Mr Cleaveland's to visit Brother Joseph Smith jr. & his 
family. We arived at his house & once more had the happy privilege of taking Brother Joseph by 
the hand. Two years had rolled away since I had seen his face. He greeted us with great Joy. 

He had just received deliverance from prision & the hand of his enemies & returned to the bosom 
of his family & friends & also Hiram his brother & Lyman Wight & two other brethren. They had 
been confined in prison about six months & had been under the sentence of death three times. 

But yet there lives were in the hands of God & could not be taken by their enemies & they were 
now at home & we in their midst rejoicing together. Joseph was frank open & familiar as usual. 
Sister Emma was truly happy. The Bishops of the Church were present also & after spending the 
day rejoicing together we returned to Quincy. 8 miles. 

/4th See May 29 whare this Council is recorded./ 

May 4th A general conference commenced this morning on the Prysbeterian camp ground 2 
miles north of Quincy. Joseph Smith jr. was President of the Conference. It was an interesting 
time. Much business of consequence was accomplished during the day. It truly gave us great Joy 
to once more sit in conference with Br Joseph. Brothers Albert Smith Isaac Ouderkark & J. H. 
Hale spent the night with me in Quincy. 4 miles. 

May 5th Sunday I attended Conference. We had a vary interesting day. Joseph address the 
congregation & also Sidney & was followed by the Twelve. At the Close of the day a Collection 
was taken up for the poor. } I wrote a letter to Br Nathaniel Thomas. 

6th I met with the quorum of the Seventies in the morning & after some Council their was about 
sixty ordained Elders & members of the Seventies. I then met Brother Joseph in Company with 
the Twelve & Bishops at the house of Bishop Partridge. We again had an interesting time with 
Brother Joseph. This was the end of the conference. 

Several of the Brethren attended this conference that was wounded by the Missouri mob one of 
which I will mention which was Brother ISAAC LEANY who was in company with about 
twenty others at Hawns mill in upper Missouri when a large anned mob fell upon them with 
loaded rifles & other weapons & shot down Seventeen of the Saints & murdered them in cool 
blood. 

Brother Leany Head from the midst of this seanery & while fleeing the mob poured forth a 
shower of balls upon him which pierced his body through and through. He showed me eleven 
ball holes in his body. Their was 27 in his shirt, 7 in his pantaloons, & his coat literally cut to 


Page212 




rags. One ball entered his body at one armpit & came out at the other. Another entered the back 
& came out at the breast. A ball passed through each hip through each leg & each arm. All this 
was while he was running for life & as strange as it may appear all those wounds with one 
broken rib did not lessen his speed in the least but he entirely out run his enemies & saved his 
life. We can ownly acknowledge it to be by the power & mercy of God. 

Brother Joseph Young was among the number. He also fled & although the balls flew around 
him like hailstones yet he was not wounded. How marvelous are the ways of the Lord. 

7th Spent the day in conversation with the Twelve. 

8th Spent the day in writing this Journal & also the 9th. 

10th & 1 1th Was spent in writing. 

12th Sunday I met in council with the twelve & the quorums of the seventies. We had an 
interesting meeting. Some important things or business was transacted this day. It was voted this 
day that none of the seventies go out to preach unless they get a recommend from their 
presidency & they go out under their direction. Also a committy was Chosen to see to the 
families of the Seventies that go out & preach. 

Also a committy of five was Chosen to labour with Elder Lyman Wight for presenting the subject 
of politicks through the public press in a manner that was derogatory to the Character of the 
church & closing up what public feeling there was manifest in our favor. 

13th & 14th I spent in preparing myself to move to Commerce or Montrose in the Ioway 
Territory. I } wrote a Letter to Elder Milton Holmes by the direction of the Twelve informing him 
of his appointment to England. 

151 moved my family from the place that I have been residing in Quincy & commenced my 
journey for Montrose. It commenced raining & I ownly drove to the committy house & spent the 
night. 

16 Brother Brigham Young & myself left the committy house & with our families we rode 15 
miles & camped. 15. 

17 Travled 15 miles & camped in the bottom of an open prairie. 15. 

18 We Travled to Commerce & called upon Brother Joseph & his family. I also saw Brothers 
Clark Turley & Ripley. Br Ripley was surveying out a city plot which included Joseph’s farm. 

Notwithstanding the Saints are driven from city to city & from place to place yet they are not 
discouraged but are determined to build a city wharever their lot is cast showing themselves to be 
industrious & detennined to maintain the kingdom of God. I next visited President Rigdon & 
Hyrum Smith & Elder George Robison & several other brethren. Commerce is beautiful for 
situation though there is but two or three dwellings in the town as yet. 


Page213 




I then crossed the Missisippi river in the ferry boat owned by George Robison. We landed at 
Montrose in the {IOWA}. This is the first time I ever visited this Territory. Montrose was built 
for a garrison in 1834 by the USA for the army. It contains about 12 blocks of buildings making 
about 75 rooms in all. 

I moved into Doct Galland office in Company with Elder Nobles for the night. The distance of 
the day 10. 

19th Sunday I remained at home resting my body & mind. 

20th I moved my family & affects about 20 rods into a room in front of the public square a room 
occupied by Elder Eligah Fordham. I occipied it by pennission of Mr Kilbourn. I also assisted Br 
Fordham in moving his goods. 

Montrose is now inhabited by all classes of people. About one half are now members of the 
Church. The remainder of the people are a mixture of all classes. The most of them are eastern 
men. There is however a Small number of Missourians. There is a man by the name of Camel 
who is a desperado regardless of all law & consequences which makes much trouble in the place. 
Doct GALLAND & Mr Kilboum are the principle owners of the place. 

May 21st I spent this day vary pleasently. I rode out on a land excursion in viewing the territory 
for several miles in the regions around Montrose our company consisted of seven persons viz the 
first Presidency Joseph, Sidney & Hiram three of the Twelve Brigham George & Willford one of 
the seventy Br Bates Nobles & also Brother Elias Higby making the eight person. 

Brother Nobles prepared a dinner for the company. We travled over the most beautiful Country I 
ever saw mostly prairie but some timber. Br Joseph’s horse ran with him with great speed on the 
prairie about a quarter of a mile before he stoped him. The company returned across the river to 
Commerce about 4 oclock PM. It was about 1 1/2 mile across the Missisippi river from 
Commerce to Montrose. 

At about the close of the day a circumstance hapned that was not so pleasant. Br Joseph B Nobles 
was plowing a peace for a garden that he had got of Mr Kilboum & before he had finished the 
peace of ground Campbell & his Clan came down with their cluds & took his horses by the bits 
& ordered him off from the ground. Campbell had no right there. It was ownly a mob spirit. Br 
Nobles left the ground to keep the peace. 10 miles. 

22 ^ I wrote a long letter to my parents & Sister in Connecticut. I wrote a short poem in it upon 
the death of Br Asahel. *(30) 

Behold the signs of the times. A mob man by the name of Rocky Mountain (or he is called such) 
commenced pulling down a long barn in Montrose at the garrisson. The people or Mr Boothe 
issued a warrent against him & he anned himself drew his pistol upon the officer & would not be 
taken. The sheriff summons a number of men to assist him in taking the man but they refused to 


Page214 




serve. He next summonds myself & Bishop Riply. I immediately mounted a horse & followed the 
criminal into the woods. We overtook him in a thicket of bushes & compelled him to Surrender. 
He was taken to court & fined. 

23d Elder Brigham Young moved into the room with me in Commerce. 

24th Five of the quorum of the Twelve were at my house. We took a walk into the prairie. 

Visited about 20 mounds. Saw the grave of a Lamanite Chief. Returned home & spent the night. 

25th I crossed the river with the Twelve to Commerce 111. & spent the day in Council with 
Joseph. We had a vary important & Interesting time. We received much Council from Joseph. 
Brother Wm. Smith was restored to his Quorum. The Council held untill night. We returned to 
Montrose & spent the night at home. <Distance of the day> 5 miles. 

May 26 Sunday I crossed the river to commerce & attended meeting at the house of Brother 
Joseph's. Elder O. Pratt preached & was follwed by Elder John Taylor. We returned home & 
spent the night. <Distance> 5 mil. 

27th I spent the day in writing. 

28 Elder Brigham Young mooved from my room four rods south. The man Called Rocky 
Mountain aided by another man again commenced pulling down the long barn. They commit 
about $2.00 dollars damage before they left it. Mr Boothe went to Port Madison to obtain a 
warrant & an officer to take him. 

29th I coppied the minutes of the general Council held in Quincy 111. on the 4th of May 1839. 

<[ — ].> /See May 4 when this Council was held./ 

COUNCIL 

Minutes of a general Conference held by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints at the 
presbyterians camp ground near Quincy Adams County Illinois on Saturday the 4th of May 1839: 

At eleven oclock the meeting was called to order and President Joseph Smith jr. appointed 
Chairman. A hymn was then sung when President Smith made a few observations on the state of 
his own peculiar feelings after having been so long seperated from his brethren &c &c & then 
proceded to open the meeting by prayer when after some preliminary remarks by Elder J.P. Green 
& President Rigdon Concerning a certain purchase of land in the Iaway Territory made for the 
Church by the Presidency. 

The following resolutions were unanimously adopted: 1st Resolved that Almand Babbit, Erastus 
Snow, & Robert B Thompson be appointed a traveling committy to gather up & obtain all the 
libellious reports & Publications which have been circulated against our Church as well as the 
historical matter connected with said church which they can possibly obtain. 

2d Resolved that Bishop Knights be appointed or received into the Church in full Bishopric. 


Page215 




3d Resolved that this conference does entirely sanction the purchase lately made for the Church 
in the Iaway Territory as also the agency thereof. 

4th Resolved that Elder Granger be appointed to go to kirtland & take the charge and oversight of 
the house of the Lord and preside over the general affairs of the Church in that place. 

5th Resolved that the advice of this conference to the brethren living in the eastern states is for 
them to move to kirtland and vicinity thereof and again settle that place as a stake of Zion 
provided that they may feel so inclined in prefference of going further west. 

6th Resolved that George A Smith be ordained to the place of Thomas B Marsh as one of the 
twelve /acknowledged] as one of the Twelve Apostles/. 

7th Resolved that this Conference are entirely satisfied with and do give their Sanction to the 
procedings of the conference of the Twelve and their friends held on the Temple Spot at Far 
West Missouri on friday the 26th of April last. 

8th Resolved that we also Sanction the act of the Council held Same date at Same place in 
cutting off from the Communion of said Church certain persons mentioned in the minutes 
thereof. 

9th Resolved that Elder Orson Hide & Wm. Smith be allowed the privilege of appearing 
personally before the next general Conference of the Church to give an account of their Conduct 
& that in the /mean/ time they be both suspended from exercising the functions of their office. 

10th Resolved that the Conference do sanction the mission intended by the Twelve to England 
and that they will do all in their power to enable them to go. 

1 1th Resolved that the subject of Elder Rigdon's going to Washington be adjourned untill 
tomorrow. 

12th Resolved that the next general Conference be held on the first Saturday in October next at 
Commerce at the house of Elder Rigdon. 

13th That we now adjourn untill tomorrow at 10 oclock. 

Joseph Smith jr. President 
J. Mulholland Clerk 

Sunday the fifth Met according to adjournment at 10 AM. Meeting or conference opened as usual 
by prayer Singing &c. when it was resolved that this Conference do send a delegate to the City of 
Washington to lay our case before the general Government and that President Rigdon be 
appointed to that office. 

2d Resolved that Almond Babit be sent to Springfield 111. clothed with authority & required to set 
to rights the Church in that place in every way which may become necessary according to the 


Page216 




order of the Church of Jesus Christ. 


3d Resolved that Col Lyman Wight be appointed to receive the affidabits which are to be sent to 
the City of Washington, after which the afternoon was spent in hearing instruction from the 
Presidency & those of the Twleve present when at 5 oclock P.M. conference adjumed according 
to the resolution of Saturday viz untill the first Saturday in October next at Commerce Illinois. 

Joseph Smith jr Chairman 
James Mulholland Clerk 


May 30th The spirit of mobocracy increases in Montrose & the Ioway &c. I spent the day 
gardning & Choping wood. 

3 1 I spent the day writing. I purchased a Cow of Mr Stebbins with a Calf a week old & paid $22 
dollars for the same. 


June 

June 1 } I wrote a lengthy letter to Brother Joseph F Carter. 

2d Sunday The spirit of the mob or of a lawless bandity was manifest this morning. One was 
walking in front of our houses with his drawn sword while others were riding on horsback with 
flags strung upon poles crying out the mormons are despised, &c & also threatning the lives of 
others. 

7th I spent the week with my family in Montrose. Nothing of great Interest transpired during the 
time. 

8th I Received a Recommend from the first Presidency to go to the Nations of the Earth, that 
reads as follows: 


Recommendation 

To the Saints Scattered abroad, to the Nations of Europe, and to the World: 

Be it known unto you that Elder Willford Woodruff is fully authorized to Preach the gospel of 
Jesus Christ & his testimony can be relied on. He is a man of unexceptionable character and 
received his authority & Priesthood from under the hands of the Residincy authorities of the 
Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints who was called by actual revelation from God. 
Therefore God will bless him and bear record by his power thereby Confirming his word & 
ministry. Thus testifieth your humble servents. 

Quincy 111 Sidney Rigdon 

June 3rd 1839 Hyrum Smith 


Page2 1 7 




Joseph Smith jr. 

June 10th I } wrote a letter to Br Seth Utley at Chalk level Benton County Tenn. 

16th Sunday President S. Rigdon Preached in Montrose, Lee County Ioway Territory to a large 
Congregation, from Acts 20 ch. 20, 2 1 v. 

17th } I wrote a letter to Elder M. Holmes. I am spending these days at home with my family & 
preparing to go on my mission to England. 

ON the first of June there was a Conference held in Quincy principly for the benefit of the 
Seventies. Joseph was president of the meeting, & the Seventies learned that it was not the will 
of God that they should appoint or have a Committy or Committies to take care of their poor &c. 
but that Bishops were the authorities that God had appointed for that purpose & that they Should 
procede according to that order & they did so & gave up the Committy which they had appointed. 

20th I am quite out of health this day. I had an interview with five of the quorum of the Twelve. 
We feel & believe that it is the most important period & age of the world of any since man was 
upon the earth. We read with much interest the history of Israel in travling from Egypt to Canaan 
& search with Interest the prophesies of Isaiah & all the prophets in the Bible the stick of Judah. 

But if possible there is feelings of greater interest vibrating our bosoms on reading the Book of 
Mormon the stick of Joseph in the hands of Ephraim to behold the faith manifest of Lehi, Nephi, 
Alma, Mormon, & Moroni & many others I might name who obtained a promise of the Lord by 
faith that blessings should rest upon there seed in the last days. /{ 0 JOSEH The Lamanites}/ 

And we now behold the Lamanites in these last days, still wandering about among the gentiles 
cast down & dejected with nothing more than a blanket upon their naked bodies & without the 
light of the gospel of Jesus Christ or a knowledge of there forefathers. But blessed be God for he 
hath promised them a blessing in these last days even the blessings of the Everlasting gospel & it 
is now to spedily come upon them as not many days hence will show. 

June 25 I spent the day in Montros with the Twelve there being six of the quorum present. Orson 
Hide was one of the number, & a more humble & penitant man I never saw, & well he might be 
for in the time of the persecution in Zion or far west, he deserted the Cause, denyed the faith & 
betrayed his brethren, & assisted Thomas B. Marsh (the president of the Twelve Apostles) in 
jeperdizing the lives of Joseph & his Council & the whole church in Zion & the blood of the 
whole of them would have been shed if they had not been spared by the immediate hand of God. 
Brother Hide for several months past has had a deep scense of his high handed wickedness & the 
horrors of hell has roll’d oer his soul even to the wasting of his flesh & he has now humbled 
himself in the dust desiring to return to the Church. 

The manner that O. Hide & T. B Marsh Jepopardized the Church was by bearing fals testimony 
against the presidency & the Church before the authorities of the State of Missouri which was a 
leading Cause of the Governour's calling out thirty thousand of the Militia against the Church of 


Page218 




Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints & when the Militia Came out against the Church, Col George 
M. Hinkle (an Elder in church & the one that led the Saints as they went out to stand in their own 
defence) sold the presidency & the whole Church into the hands of the Malitia which were 
detennined on taking our lives. Yea Hinkle proved one of the worst of traitors that ever occupied 
a standing on earth. Yet the Lord deliverd his Saints & Blessed be his name. 

26 I Crossed the river with the Twelve to Commerce & spent the day in council with the Twelve 
& two of the Presidency. Joseph was not present. 

The subject of Br Hide was discused. President Rigdon expressed his opinion vary plain & 
forcably. He said he feared that if Br Hide returned to his quorum that when the next trial Came 
he would desert the Church as he had done before but said if it was the will of God he was 
willing that Br Hide should return to his quorum. 

Interesting remarks were made from Ephe 1 eh. 17, 18 verses. But more esspecially from St. 

John XIV eh. 15 to 3 1 vers the other Comforter. Note the 23 v. &c. 

June 27th I spent the day in Commerce in Council with the Presidency & Twelve. We had an 
interesting day. Joseph was president of the Council. Brother Orson Hide was restored to the 
Church and the quorum of the Twelve in full fellowship by a full vote of the Council, after 
making an humble Confession & acknowledgement of his sins &c. 

/ \ Among the vast number of the Keys of the Kingdom of God Joseph presented the following 
one to the Twelve for there benefit in there experience & travels in the flesh which is as follows: 

In order to detect the devel when he transforms himself nigh unto an angel of light. When an 
angel of God appears unto man face to face in personage & reaches out his hand unto the man & 
he takes hold of the angels hand & feels a substance the same as one man would in Shaking 
hands with another he may then know that it is an angel of God, & he should place all 
Confidence in him. Such personages or angels are Saints with there resurrected Bodies. 

But if a personage appears unto man & offers him his hand & the man takes hold of it & he feels 
nothing or does not sens any substance he may know it is the devel, for when a Saint whose body 
is not resurrected appears unto man in the flesh he will not offer him his hand for this is against 
the law given him & in keeping in mind these things we may detec the devil that he decieved us 
not. 

28 Spent the day at home in writing. Yesterday I let the Bishops have my forty acre lot in far west 
Mo. I deeded the lot to a man by the name of Blefens in payment of the landing point four miles 
South of the garrison in Montrose. 

30th ;}■ Wrote a letter to Sister Lydia Luce. Sunday met in Montrose & broake bread with the 
Church. Three of the Twelve were present & bore testimony. 

July 


Page219 




July 1st 4 1 wrote a letter to Sister Sarah Milliken & made some boxes &c. 

2d THIS was an interesting day. The First Presidency Joseph & his Council Came across the 
river to Montrose to spend the day with the Twelve to bless them & their families before they left 
for other Nations. 

In the fore part of the day we rode four miles down the river to see the place called Blefens point 
whare the Saints expected to build a town. Joseph pronounced it good & we returned. The whole 
company dined at my dwelling Consisting of about Twelve persons. After dinner we all 
assembled at Elder Brigham Young house for meeting. 

President Hiram Smith opened the meeting by prayer after which the Presidency lade their hands 
upon my head & sealed a blessing upon me President Rigdon being speaker. They also sealed a 
blessing upon the head of Elder's George A Smith & Turley, Also upon the head of Sister Young 
Sister Tailor & my wife. If we were faithful we had the promise of again returning to the bosom 
of our families & being blesed on our mission & having many Souls as seals of our ministry. 

After the blessings were bestowed Brother Hiram Smith arose & gave The Twelve Some 
interesting advice and Council Considering it best to say nothing but repentance to this 
generation or at least to preach the first principles of the gosepl as that was as much as this 
generation could endure & many other things he said of interest. 

Then Joseph arose & presented some precious things of the kingdom unto us in the power of the 
Holy Ghost, yea precious principles that ought to be engraven upon our hearts & practiced in our 
lives, some of which are as follows: 

Ever keep in exercise the principles of mercy & be ready to forgive our brother on the first 
intimations of repentance & asking forgiveness & should we even forgive our brother or our 
enemy before they ask it our heavenly father would be equally as merciful unto us & also we 
ought to be willing to repent of & confess all of our own sins & keep nothing back, & let the 
Twelve be humble & not be exalted & beware of pride & not seek to excell one above another 
but act for each others good & honerably make mention of each others name in our prayrs before 
the Lord & before our fellow men, & not backbite & devour our brother. 

Why will not man leam wisdom by precept & example at this late age of the world & not be 
oblieged to learn every thing we know by sad experiance? Must the new ones that are chosen to 
fill the places of those that are fallen of the quorum of the Twelve, begin to exhalt themselves 
untill they get so high that they will tumble over & have a great fall & go wallowing through the 
mud, mire, & darkness Judas like to the buffating of Satan as several of the Twelve have done, or 
will they learn wisdom & be wise? (O God give them wisdom & keep them humble I pray.) 

When the Twelve or any other witness of Jesus Christ stands befor the Congregations of the earth 
& they preach in the power & demonstration of the Holy Ghost & the people are asstonished & 
confounded at the doctrin & say that that man has preached a powerful discours a great sermon 


Page220 




then let that man or those men take care that they do not asscribe the glory unto themselves but 
be careful that they are humble & asscribe the praise & glory to God & the Lamb for it is by the 
power of the Holy Priesthood & the Holy Ghost that they have power thus to speak. What art 
thou O man but dust & from wholrn dost thou received thy power & blessings but from God? 

Then O ye Twelve notice this _[ key & be wise for Christ sake & your own souls sake. Ye are not 
sent out to be taught but to teach. Let every man be Sober be vigilent & let all his words be 
seasoned with grace & keep in mind that it is a day of warning & not of many words. 

Act honest before God & man. Beware of gentile sophestry such as bowing & scraping unto men 
in wholm you have no Confidence. Be honest open & frank in all your intercourse with mankind. 

0 ye Twelve and all Saints, profit by this important Key _[ that in all your trials, troubles, & 
temptations, afflictions bonds imprisionment & death see to it that you do not betray heaven, that 
you do not betray Jesus Christ, that you do not betray your Brethren, & that you do not betray the 
revelations of God whether in the bible, Book of Mormon, or Doctrine & Covenants or any of the 
word of God. Yea in all your kicking, & floundering see to it that you do not this thing lest 
innocent blood be found in your skirts & you go down to hell. 

We may ever know by this sign that there is danger of our being led to a fall & aposticy, when we 
give way to the devil so as to neglect the first known duty. But whatever you do do not betray 
your Friend. 

July 4th I spent this day of Independance in assisting Brothers Young & Taylor in preparing a 
peace for the first paper or NO of the Times & Seasons published in Commerce. 

6th } I received a letter from Sister Eunice dated June 15th. I spent the day in aranging my trunk, 
Clothes, Books &c to prepare for my mission to England. 

7th Sunday This is an important day & worthy of record because of the important Scenes which 
transpir’d as follows: 

1 crossed the Missisippi river in the ferry boat with Mrs Woodruff in company with two of the 
Twelve & about one hundred Saints which went to Commerce from Montrose to attend a 
meeting that the Twelve might deliver their farewell address before they left for England. When 
we arived at the place of meeting Elder John E. Page was speaking. He occupied the stand in the 
forepart of the day & spoke much upon the proof of the book of Mormon. 

In the afternoon brother John Taylor spoke & bore testimony also of the things of God. I 
followed him in testimony & rejoiced in having the privilege of once more addressing the body 
of the church. Brother Orson Hide followed me & he had the spirit of the Lord. Brother Brigham 
Young next spoke & also bore testimony in the spirit. 

We was then addressed by President S. Rigdon & his address was peculiarly adapted to the 
circumstances of the Twelve taking their leave of all they hold dear on earth & go forth from 


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their own nation & stand before the kings & rulers of the nations of the earth to bear testimony 
unto them of the fulness of the everlasting gospel of Jesus Christ. His address was of such a 
nature in appealing to our affections, in parting with our wives, and Children, & the peculiarity of 
our mission, the perils that we might meet with, & the blessings that we should receive, &c. that 
tears was brought from many eyes. 

Joseph addressed us in few words & says remember brethren that if you are imprisiond Brother 
Joseph has been imprisond before you. If you are placed whare you can ownly see your Brethren 
through the grates of a window while in Irons because of the gospel of Jesus Christ remember 
Brother Joseph has been in like circumstances also. After other similar remarks the meeting 
closed & three persons were Baptized & Confinned which ended the duties of the day. 

REFLECTIONS Surely this is an important day to behold. A quorum of Twelve Apostles of the 
Lamb of God organized in these last days to go forth unto all the nations of the earth to prune the 
vineyard once more for the last time that the Saints may be prepared for the second [coming] of 
Christ, & that Israel may be gatherd & babylon fall & the earth once more clensed from its 
pollutions & wickedness swept from the face thereof. :]■ May the Lord enable us the Twelve ever 
to be meek & humble & to lie passive in this hands as the clay is in the hands of the potter & may 
we ever realize that while we are in the service of God & doing his will, that though we may be 
surrounds by mobs & threatened with death that the Lord is our deliverer & that he will support 
us in every time of trouble & trial. 

July 8th I spent in writing. 

9th I regulated my trunks & set my house in order for my Journey. :]■ I wrote a letter to Elder John 
Herret & sent him the Prospectus. 

10th I Crossed the River. Saw some lamanites. I spent the day in Montrose Commerce with 
Joseph & some of the Twelve in aranging a selection of Hymns for the Church. [5?]. 

Ill rode out with Phebe & Brother & Sister Smoot 4 miles west of montrose across a beautiful 
prairie to a plantation of Brother Hawleys. He was breaking prairie & had a fair prospect of 
having a plantation of the first order. Distance 8 m. 

12th I crossed the river with Brother Taylor in a canoe to upper Commerce. Assisted in looking 
over the proof sheet of the first number of the Times & seasons. We then had an interview with 
the Presidency & also with Elder Kimble. We went into the River & had a bathe. 

We was Called upon to visit the sick & administer unto them by the laying on of hands. We 
found quite a number that were sick. Several received a blessings & while administering in 
spiritual things Joseph Called upon the Twelve to call & visit father Smith /is 68 years of age this 
day/ & lay hands upon him that he might be healed for he was sick & nigh unto death. We lade 
hands upon him & he received /[ 6 sick?]/ a blessing. The thought struck me that the Lord would 
add unto his life fifteen years, & to Close the scenes of this day, we received the glorious 


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intelligence of the happy deliverence of PARLEY P. PRA TT from Prision whare he had been 
Confined seven months for the cause of God. Brother Morris Phelps was also delivered with 
Parley. They delivered themselves on the fourth day of July above the setting of the Sun by 
running over the Jailor & esscaping out of thir hands by mounting some horses that were 
prepared for that purpose by Orson Pratt, Sister Phelps & others. They were closely persued by 
the mob & narrowly escaped by leaving behind them their horses Saddles bridles & hats & arived 
in Quincy on the 10th of July making six days on the road. 

They are now all liberated but two persons viz King Follet & Luman Gibbs. King Follet got out 
of Prision with Parley but was retaken. May the remainder soon be deliverd I Pray. But Blessed 
be the Lord God for his mercy in delivering the Saints from prision. <Distance of the day> 8. 

July 13th I spent the day in writing. 

19th I have been called upon to visit the sick many times during the last few days & administer 
unto them by the laying on of hands for their is many of the Saints that are sick. I crossed the 
river this morning with Elder Taylor. We visited father Joseph Smith sen & found him still vary 
sick. We prayed with him & layed hands upon him & he received a blessing. 

And after travling about two miles further, I had the happy privilege of once more taking Elder 
PARLEY P. PRATT by the } ■=(: hand, & also O Pratt & Heber Kimble. Br Parley had just arived 
at Commerce from Joal in Boon County Mo whare he had been Confined about 8 months for the 
cause of Jesus Christ. I was truly glad to see him. 

In a short time Joseph & Hiram & others Soon rode up to see Parley & in fine it was a happy 
meeting. I returned home to Montrose feeling thankful to God for his deliverance. 

20th I spent the day [ ]. 

22 Joseph was in Montrose & it was a day of Gods power. There was many Sick among the 
Saints on both sides of the river & Joseph went through the midst of them taking them by the 
hand & in a loud voice Commanding them in the name of Jesus Christ to arise from their beds & 
be made whole & they leaped from their beds made whole by the power of God. Elder Eligah 
Fordham was one among the number & he with the rest of the sick rose from his bed & followed 
Joseph from house to house & it was truly a time of rejoicing. 

25th 'T $ On this day for the first time in my life I have an attack’d of the chills & fefer & I find it 
a distressing dissease. A number of the quorum of the Twelve are taken 111. The enemy is striving 
to bind us down that we shall not go into the vineyard. 

29 My chills & fever still Continues. I took a course of Thompsonian medicine to clens my 
System. I took 3 emetics & steamed 15 minutes. I thought this would do for one day. I was vary 
sick. 


August 


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Aug 3rd I Received a paper from Brother Ilus F Carter in the City of New York. 

4th Sundy I attended a meeting of Prayer & fasting in Commerce. Joseph gave us good advice. 

6th I still have the fever ague every other day. I in company with Mrs Woodruff rode on horsback 
4 miles west across the prairie into Brother Hawleys settlement to see our babe Sarah E at 
Brother Smoots whare we had Sent her for her health & also to look out a location for a building 
spot for my family while I am gone to England as the friends in that neighbourhood offer to take 
care of my family while I am gone. 

And after spending a few hours with them I took the parting hand with them & among the rest 
our little Sarah Shook hands with me. I shall not see her any more untill I return from England. 
May the LORD bless her I pray & preserve her in health untill I return that I may see her in flesh. 
6 m. 

7th I spent the day in preparing to leave home to go on my long mission to England. I make a 
sacralice of my all for Christ sake to do his work. It is no small trial of faith to leave my family & 
my all & to start on a mission of four thousand miles to preach the gospel to the nations of the 
earth & that to without money purs or scrip with the power of desease resting upon me even a 
shock of the fever & aque every other day but yet I do this freely for Christ Sake trusting in him 
for the recompence of reward. May the Lord give me grace according [to] my day & a safe return 
to my family which favor I ask in the name of JESUS CHRIST. 

Oet-Aug 8th 1839 } ■=(: $(3 1) $(32) Early on this important morning I took my departure from 
the embraces of my companion to go on my mission. She parted with me with that fortitude that 
becometh a Saint realizing the call & responsibility of her companion. Phebe farewell. Be of 
good cheer. Remember me in your prayers esspecially as the sun sets in the western horizon. I 
leave these pages for your careful perusal while I am gone. I shall see thy face again in the flesh. I 
am gone to obey the Command of JESUS CHRIST. 

The time had come for me to take my departure from my family to carry the gospel of Jesus 
Christ to the nations of Europe in fulfillment of the commands of God. Accordingly I left a 
parting blessing with my wife & took my farewell of her & other Saints on the mom of the 8th 
day of OeEAug 1839 & left Montrose & crossed the Missisippi river for the purpose of 
commencing my mission of about six thousand miles & I started without purs or scrip and that to 
with the fever & ague resting upon me every other day. 

I left in company with Elder John Taylor. We were the first of the quorum of the Twelve that left 
Nauvoo on this important [day] but the rest expect to follow us immediately. We rode from 
Commerce across a 16 mile prairie & spent the night at Br Merills. Distance of the day 18 m. 

Oet-Aug 9th Rode 10 miles to Brother Perkins. We Passed through Carthage. I spent the day at 
Br Perkins untill 12 oclock during which time I was suffering under the power of the ague & 
fever & immediately after the fever came upon me I got into the waggon with Br Perkins & rode 


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to McComb. From thence to Br Carloss Smiths. This was over a rough road of 25 miles & I truly 
suffered much this day. It seemed as though I should shake to peaces in the waggon with a heavy 
fever upon me. I spent the night in company with Br Taylor at Br Carloss Smiths. 35. 

/1 0/ 1 Commenced taking a box of Sapington’s Anti fever pills which are so highly recommended 
for the ague & fever as I do not wish to carry the disease any further with me. I attended meeting 
in the grove. Elder Taylor Preached. I followed him. Although I was weak in body, yet the Lord 
strengthend me. I spent the night with Br Carlos Smith. 

1 1 This is my day to be sick with the Ague & fever according to its ususal course but blessed be 
the Lord I have esscaped it this day. I have taken 14 of the sappingtons pills & they have entirely 
broaken the ague entirely to all appearance. 

I attended meeting in the grove & herd a discours from Elder John Taylor D.C. Smith & Samuel 
Smith & communed with the Saints. And inasmuch as we were without purs or scrip, they 
contributed to our necessities to the amount of $9. Mr George Miller offered himself for Baptism 
after meeting. I rode to McComb. From then[ce] to Father John Coltrins & spent the night. I was 
weak & feble with the exercises of the day. Distance 14 m. 

Aug 12th Br Taylor Baptized Mr Miller. I spent the day with Br Zebedee Coltrin. I am gaining in 
Strength. I spent the night at Br John Vance. 8 m. 

131 am still gaining strength. I feel thankful unto the Lord for his mercies unto me in this thing. I 
spent the day at Coltrins. We have now Concluded to accompany father Coltrin by land who is 
going with a two hors waggon to Ohio & has offered to Carry us which will assist us so much on 
our Journey. 

14 Br George Miller gave us a horse & we started on our Journey. Travelled to the Illinois river 
& Crossed the river at Beardstown & continued 4 miles through the sand & spent the night with 
Mr Dew. 38 m. 

15 Passed through Virginia. From thence to Springfield and attended meeting with the Saints. I 
addressed the Church in few words & was followed by Elder Taylor. I felt wearied with my 
Journey as I had ownly partially renewed my strength. Distance of the day 40 miles. 

16 Elder Taylor engaged a printer at Springfield to print fifteen hundred Copies of a brief sketch 
in pamphlet form of the persecutions & sufferings of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day 
Saints by the inhabitants of the State of Missouri. I spent the day in Springfield. 

171 rode to Rochester with Father Coltrin and once more had an interview with some of our fox 
Island friends. We stoped at Mr Carvers. I was pleased with an interview with Mother and Sister 
Carver but esspecially with Br & Sister Thomas who had arived at Rochester since I left. I had 
not seen him since we parted in Indiana last winter. I also saw sister Brown who was Called to 
mourn the loss of her husband and oldest daughter. Sister Brown was perfectly resigned. I spent 
the night with Br Thomas. 8 miles. 


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1 8th I preached the funeral sennon of the wife of Br Zemira Draper who died at 4 oclok PM on 
Saturday the 17th Aug, aged 22 years. Brother Charles Brown and his Daughter Rebecca both 
died on the eve of the 6th Day of Aug 1839. Br Brown died at 1 1 oclock & Rebecky at 12 and 
were buried the next day both in one grave. I accompanied the corps of Sister Draper to the 
grave. I had an interview with most all of the Fox Island friends. I spent the night with Elder 
Stephens. 4 m. 

19th I spent most of the day visiting the Saints. I rode to Mr J Coons at my old habitation. I had 
some peculiar feelings while visiting the place. 

I next visited Br Oudercark & sister Smith & their families. Br Smith had gone east on a mission. 
Number of those families were sick. I laid hands upon 6 of them & asked the Lord to heal them. 
Sister Brown was present. She accompanied me to the grave of her husband & Daughter. I then 
went to the house whare she resided with Br Luce. I spent several hours with them. I left a 
blessing with sister Brown her Children, & Br Luce & family. 

I then returned to Br Stephens. From thence to Mr Alleys and preached the gospel of Jesus Christ 
unto a Congregation. I was Strengthend in Body & mind. Many were effected on parting with 
me. I returned to Elder Wm. Drapers. Spent the night. 7 m. 

20 I was Suddenly Called upon in the morning to return to Springfield to attend an Elders Court. 
Accordingly I returned to Springfield and met with the Council of Elders at 1 1 oclok AM. Elder 
John Taylor prefered a Charge against Elder Aimon Babit for rejecting his teaching in Public 
when it was correct & for other improper Conduct. 

I was Called to the Chair & opened the meeting by prayer. We had the testimony on the Subject 
& with other remarks. The day was occupied untill the sitting of the Sun. The Testimony was 
against Elder Babbit & he finally made a confession & the subject was settelled. 

We had much other matter to perform & but little time to do it in. Elder Taylor settelled with the 
printer & we sold our horse saddle & bridle for $23 dollars & we had some donations made us by 
the Saints to assist us on our Journeys. We took the parting hand with the Saints & rode to 
rochester & spent the night with Br Nathaniel Thomas. I wrote a letter to Mrs Woodruff & 
requested her to write me in Buffalo & New York. Distance 16 mile. 

2 1 st I parted with Mr Carver & family & Br & Sister Thomas & left Rochester & rode to the end 
of the seven mile prairie & stoped several hours as father Coltrin was vary sick. From thence we 
rode to Br Chenia's & spent the night. Distance of the day 28 mile. 

22d We crossed a twelve mile prairie & stoped several hours also a fourteen mile prairie. We 
found the flies bad upon the horses. We spent the night at the house of Mr Shaws on the main 
branch of the Okaw an indian name & (a hebrew) frase. Distance of the day 40. 

23 Crossed one eighteen mile prairie & took breakfast & then rode across the fourteen mile to 


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Paris. From thence to Mr G. Moke & spent the night. Distance of the day 40. 

24 /ASAHEL H. WOODRUFF/ We left the state of Illinois & passed into the state of la. We 
crossed the Wabash & spent the day & night with Dr Mudesett a member of the Church of Latter 
Day Saints. I was much fatigued & had a fever. 

I had an interview during the evening with a Mr Adams that had been a constant Companion of 
Br Asahels for several years & appeared to be the most capable of giving me a Correct account 
concerning him in evry point of view, of any man in the West. He informed me that in the main 
point he was vary steady & temporate in his habits, & did not believe in the principle of white 
lying or misrepresenting in order to carry on his business or merchantdize. He got along well in 
his business untill the last year of his life. He had bought a large quantity of Books & they did not 
sell as well as he expected & he was not able to meet all of his payments. This was a source of 
much regret to him & the main Cause of his esstate being insolvent. 

During the last year of his life he manifested a desire to more fully improve his mind than he ever 
had done. He read many of Thomas Paine's writing & they more fully esstablished him in the 
gospel of Jesus Christ although Pains writing were against the gospel. Asahel Considered his 
writings eisily to be refuted. Asahel was more free to open his mind to Mr Adams than any other 
man. Consequently he was more capable of Judging of his views & feelings upon spiritual 
subjects. 

He infonned me that his mind was deeply ingaged in the subject of the faith of the latter Day 
Saints. At first he said but little about it but before his death he warmly contended for the 
principles & defended the cause of the Latter Day Saints when it was assailed. 

Asahel (in one sens of the word) was not himself but another man during the last four months of 
his life. He was abent minded & overwhelmed in deep study & thought for hours together. At 
times he would ride half a day beside Mr Adams & not utter a word, & at other times he would 
speak to him two or three times before he would notice him or speak to him. He lost his former 
Cheerfulness & during those four months he more freequently spoke of his friends & relatives 
than before esspecially myself & most of father's family. He was making preperation to go east & 
was ownly hendered by his sickness & death. He freequently spoke of Death & of the uncertainty 
of life. He was teacher in the Sunday School in the Presbyterian Church for a length of time in 
Terre Haute though not a member of the Church, by any means. 

He had freequently argured against the principles of Dancing Schools, but got to attend a part of 
a quarter during this peculiar state of mind and also some parties. But Mr Adams thought he 
would not have done it if he had been perfectly himself. 

Mr Adams was absent from Terre Haute During Asahel's sickness and Death Selling Books for 
him. Asahel wrote him two letters And Mr Adams judjing from the contents of these letters that 
he was evidently growing worse, immediately retumd to Terre Haute & on his arival found that 
Asahel Hart Woodruff one of his most intimate & best friends on earth was dead & buried. 


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He immediately inquired into his sickness & death. And he thinks he would have been more 
Comfortable if he could have been in a private family & been kept from exposing himself to cold 
and damp air as he was in some degree while under the operation of medicine. 

Mr Adams also confirmed the statement that his loss was deeply felt in the west by all of his 
acquaintance & that those peculiar traits which Asahel possessed that interested so many in the 
east had the same effect in the west. Asahel maintained that the Cause of the Latter Day Saints 
was worthy of a thorough investigation & ought to be carefully searched into. 

Mr Adams was in Asahels employ untill his death & at the administrators sale he purchased 
$1,000 dollars worth of his books, & is now supplying Asahels former customers. Mr Adams 
gave me some letters directed by Asahel to him. Distance of the day 20 miles. 

25th Sunday I was exceding feeble & weak & the weather was hot & it had an effect upon me. 
The Thermoneter stood 90 in the shade 1 12 in the sun. I walked to the grave Yard to visit Br 
Asahel's grave. It exhausted me much. I spent the day at the doctors. I wrote 2 letters one to sister 
Sarah B Foss & the } other to sister Eunice. I had a vary restless night. 

26th I rode out of Terre Haute 5 miles to Mr John Coltrins & spent the night. I felt some better in 
health. I mailed John Taylors Pamphlets to the following Persons: Ezra Carter sen. Ezra Carter 
Jr. Sarah B Foss, Luther Scammans, Col Solomon Copeland & Seth Utley, Azmon Woodruff. 5 
m. 

27th We Passed through Stilesville Bellville & Bridgeport & spent the night with Mr Jesse 
Coombs. 3 1 . 

28 We rode through Williamstown & pleasant garden & other towns & spent the night. 33. Elder 
Taylor had a poor turn & fainted to the ground. He soon recoverd & was well at evening. 

29th We Passed through Indianapolis the Capitol of the State. Rode two miles & stoped. But this 
was a gloomy day to my soul & body both. The enemy made a powerful grasp upon the life of 
Elder John Taylor. He fainted several times & it seemed as though he would die. We were 
oblieged to stop. We called for a few hours in a house by the way side. We then took him into the 
waggon & drove to Elder Eldridge & spent the day nursing Elder Taylor. He took a Course of 
Thompsonian medicine. 10. 

30 Father Coltrin exchanged horses with Elder Eldridge. Br Taylor let Br Eldridge have 100 of 
his pamphlets & through the mercy of God Elder Taylor with the rest of us was enabled to start 
on our Journey. We passed through Cumberland, Greenfield, Kentstown, Middletown, & to 
Louisville & once more had the privilege of seeing the family of Elder James Townsend. Was 
not at home himself. We spent the night with his family. Elder Taylor & myself was both about 
sick for we had rode 40 miles over a rough road & we were terribly shaken in our weak state. 40 
m. 


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3 1st We still felt disposed to try to continued our Journey. We passed through Cambridge & 
Dublin at which place Elder Taylor procured some medicine of Dr Famham. He was vary sick. 
We continued to Germantown & was oblieged to stop & spend the day & night in Consequence 
of Elder Taylors sickness. 

He suffered much. He appears now to have the billious fever settelled upon him. I felt quite 111 
myself. This was a dark & gloomy day. May the Lord have mercy upon us & not suffer our way 
to be hedged up I pray. 14 m. 


September 

Sept 1st 1839 This is the first day of fall. Sunday. Elder Taylor felt much better. We concluded to 
spend the day in the place & preach to the people. It was a german settlement. I deliverd unto 
them a discourse on the first principles of the gospel & other subjects. Elder Taylor followed me 
& spoke untill he was quite exhausted not realizing his bodily weakness, & I became Chilled 
myself & returned to Mr Waltz Inn & I immediately was taken with a shake of the ague & was 
followed by a high fever which lasted me mostly through the night. 

2d This * (33)was a painful day to my feelings in some respect. Elder Taylor is worse. Has a high 
billious fever and Cannot Journey, it is now evident, that he will have a Course of the fever. 
Father Coultrin is to Continue his Journey & Elder Taylor is to be left & it was painful to think of 
parting with him & leave him sick a thing I should not do was I able to take care of him myself. 
But as my health would not pennit of this being vary feeble in body Elder Taylor advised me to 
continue my Journey with father Coltrin & make the best of my way to New York. Accordingly I 
did so, And after committing him to God I took the parting hand with him & left him in 
Germantown Wayne County Indianna, in the hands of a merciful God & a kind & benevolent 
family, who promised to do evry thing in their power to make him Comfortable untill his 
recovery which I have full Confidence to believe they will do. The place is within 12 miles of 
Elder James Townsend in Louisville. 

We rode from Mr Waltz in to Richmond & out of the State of Indiana into the State of Ohio. I 
passed through the town of Eaton w hare my wife Suffered much (as we Journied west last 
winter) with the brain fever. I noted the house in particular whare we spent four days at which 
Place Mrs Woodruff was healed by faith & the power of God. We passed through Eaton & spent 
the night at Mr David Hecks. Distance of the day 45. 

{Sept 3} I rode through Dayton 14 miles to Springfield 24 miles to Brition 13 & put up for the 
night at the Inn of Mr Buckharts. I am again deliverd from the ague & fever. I have had none of it 
since the shake on Sunday. Distance 24 miles. 

4th We rode to Columbus the Capitol of the State of Ohio. Here we left the National road & 
Continued to Blendon & spent the night at the inn of Osbom whare Mrs Woodruff was taken 
Sick. I spent the night. 41. 


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5th Passed through Mount Vernon & spent the night at Monroe. Distance of the day 41. 

6 Passed through Jackson woster & Loudenville & spent the night at the Inn of Wm. Elliot. 41. 

7 Passed through Jackson & Guilford & Brunswick & to Stronsville. Here Father Coltrins sons & 
Daughters resided & they met together to day & thaire was much rejoiceing on their return which 
ends my journey with them. I spent the night with Br P Body. 30. 

8th I spent the day at Br P Bodies. I wrote a lengthy letter to Br Thompson Woodruff & requested 
him to write to me at New York. 

9th I spent the day at Br Colterins folding my Pamphlets. I found on Counting them that [I] had 
460 of Elder Taylor pamphlets that I receieved from him. Spent the night with P Body. 

101 left Strorsville & rode with father Coltrin to Cleveland & went on board the Robert Fulton 
bound for Buffaloo. We had a severe gale and a vary rough lake. Most all were sick on board. 

We run into fairport & spent the night amid a hard storm. 47. 

1 1 The Storm continues & the lake foams with such violence that we Could not move out into 
the harbur with any degree of safety. It was a dull day to me while crouded in the midst of deck 
passengers. 

12 The Captain left the harbor with his boat at 6 olcock AM. The wind still was high & the lake 
rough through the day. We could not make any harbor untill we reached Buffalo which was at 
midnight. The Steemboat run into a Schooner while entering a harbour which tore the ganway 
fo[n?]ders to atams of the fulton & instantly broke off the gib boom of the Schooner. But I was 
truly glad to reach Buffalo after lying three days & nights from Cleveland to Buffalo. 163. 

13th I took passage at Buffaloo for Albany on board the Col worth on the Erie Canal at 1 1/2 cent 
per mile for 365 miles to Albany. We rode to Lockport. 90 miles. 90. 

14 Rode to Palmira near the place whare the book of Mormon was found. I was sick with the 
Chills & fever. Distance of the day 50. 

15 Rode to Canton. We had four preachers of the sects on board of the boat. They spoke of the 
Book of Mormon & misrepresented it & also the Character of the Saints. I had the Chills & fever 
to day. Was feble in body. 56. 

16 Rode to Sarycuse to Rome & had the chills & fever to day. 60. 

17 Rode to Utica & to fort Plain. Had chills & fever. 53. 

18th Rode to the Aqueduct. I had an exceding sick day of Chills & fever & faintness. Distance 
58. 

19 Rode to Albany mostly through Locks. I had fever & ague. Was feble. I called at the Hartford 


Page230 




and Albany Stage house & took Sta[g?]e at 10 oclock in the evening & rode all night [.] 1 1 oclok 
ne [lstdi. 6?]4. 


20 Rode to Avon & spent the night with aunt Wheeler. I suffered much in the Stage with ague. 

40. 

21 * (34)Rode from Avon to Farmington Conn& once more had the happy privilege of beholding 
A father mother & Sister in the flesh face to face & spent the day at fathers house. I had no chill 
or fever to day but spent the day plesantly. 6 miles. 

22 Sunday Spent the day at fathers house. In the evening I took a walk with Sister Eunice to Mr 
Chauncy Hills. He had lost his wife Mary Ann was much out of health. 2. 

23, 24 & 25 I spent the time at Father Woodruff. I was still quite 111. I had an interview with Aunt 
Bulah H. 

26 I rode with Mother & Aunt Bulah to uncle Adna Harts & we found Adna sick & nigh unto 
death & probably will not live but few days. I here had an interview with Sister Cossett. I felt 
quite 111 while at Adnas. We returned home & sister Cossett accompanied us. 

Br Dwight Webster was at fathers house. He called to have an interview with me. I was truly glad 
to see him. He tarried about three days & when he left he was more esstablished in the faith & 
detennined to go forth & do his duty & honor the Priesthood which was confirmed upon him. 7 
m. 

/ { 84} 27th Sept 1839 My Grand Mother Anna Thompson Died this day Aged 84 years.! 

27, 28th I still Continue at Fathers house. Was quite 111. I parted with Br Webster. 

29th Sunday I spent the day at Fathers. I had an interview in the evening with Br Ozem 
Woodruff. I was truly glad to see him. He was Strong in the faith & detennined to do the will of 
God & desirous to go to the Land of Zion. He was expecting to work for Father Several days. 

30 } I wrote a letter to Phebe. I spent the day at Fathers. I had a light turn of the Ague to day. 

October 

Oct 1st I spent the day at Fathers & wrote a letter to Elder John Taylor & Mr Waltz. We had } a 
number of friends in the evening called to see us viz Betsy Cossett, Jennett Stedman & among 
the Number was Mr Chauncy Hills. 

2d ^ I wrote a letter to Philo Vining & one to Sister Hannah Woodruff & spent the time at fathers. 

3d I spent the day at Fathers. I was blessed with the happy privilege of once more administering 
the ordinace of Baptism to one of my friends. I repaired to the water about the Setting of the * 
(35)accompanied by a few friends & I administered the ordinance of Baptism to Cousin 


Page23 1 




BETSEY GOSSETT * (36)in Farmington River In the Same Place whare father & his houshold 
& other friends were baptized the year before. 

4th I spent the day at Fathers house. I walked in the evening to Jennett Steadmans & spent 
several hours in Conversation. 

Chauncy Hills is some delerious & it is feared that he will not live long & it is some feared also 
that the Storms of Adversity that are falling upon Mary Ann Hills will carry her to the grave 
soon, & while speaking of the afflicitons of others I will return to ourselves. 

SINGULAR. Mercy Thompson, Samuel Thompson, Lot Thompson & Anna Thompson wife of 
Lot Thompson all of one family Died at {84} years of age. 

{Adna Hart Died Oct 4 1839 Age 43 years.} 

Uncle Adna Hart died this 4th Day of Oct 1839 Aged 43 years. 

Thus our relatives with whom we have been associated from our youth up are droping into 
eternity one after another. But I thank GOD that there is power in the plan of Salvation to redeem 
men from the grave. I was Baptised for Adna Hart on the 26 Aug 1844. 

Oct 5th 1839 I was Called upon by my relatives to attend the funeral Sermon of Uncle Adna 
Hart. I had suffered with the chills & fever almost daily for about 15 days & to undertake to 
preach a sennon in my weak state & to commence at the hour my ague was to come on required 
much resolution Confidence & faith. However I promised to Go & gave out the appointment. 

It was a Chilly day. I rode in Company with my Mother & Sister Eunice, 3 miles from 
farmington to Adna Harts house in Avow The neighbors soon began to assemble & I had an 
interview with many friends that I had not seen before for a long time viz sister Hannah 
Woodruff Ezra Hart, Philo Vining besides a large congregation of the Neighbors in the regions 
round about. 

Adna felt before his death that he had not lived as he ought for the last few years of his life. But 
before his death he felt to repent of all his sins, & said & felt that he was perfectly willing to die 
& his friends felt a great evidence that it was well with him. 

After Singing & Prayer I arose at the same hour that my ague was to come on & I addressed the 
assembly an hour or more with such remarks as I thought the Subject required & dismissed the 
Congregation. 

I took the last look at the Corps which was vary plesant & it was Conveyed to the grave Yard 
whare my Mother Grandfather & many relatives were buried, & here Adna Harts body was 
committed to the Tomb from the sight of many friends. 

I did not go to the grave myself, but after conversing with Philo Vining upon the things of the 
Kingdom of God and also hearing Sister Betsey Cossett express her joy at having obeyed the 


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gospel & being baptized for the remission of sins, I took the parting hand with those friends & 
returned to fathers House in Fannington being vary thankful to the Lord for entirly delivering me 
from the ague & fever this day notwithstanding I had been so much exposed & I had no more of 
it for many days. 6 m. 

6 Sunday I spent the day at Fathers. I had a plesant walk with Sister Eunice in viewing the rivers 
& fields of my youth &c. 

Oct 7th I took the parting hand with father Mother & Sister & took the Stage to Hartford & went 
on board the Steemer Cleopatra for the City of New York at 2 oclok P.M. & we arived at the city 
NY at 6 oclok next morning. The whole distance of the day 170 m. 

8 I Called at the Store of my brother in Law, Ilus F Carter in Bleacker st 1 18 Comer of woster. 
From thence to Br Richard Burdge 41 king st & to Br Wm. Acker Charlton street No 65. 1 spent 
the day with Br Burge. I had an interview with Elders Mullener & Wright. I was glad to see them. 
4 m. 

9th I visited Br James Pratts family in wats st. 69. 1 also visited Elder Jacob W. Jenks owner & 
Capt of Sloop Sea gul that plays Continually between New York & singsing. 4. 

10th [] I recieved a letter from Elder John Taylor. I left the City of New York & took Steemboat 
Francisko for Singsing. Sister Wandie & Eager accompanied me to Singsing. We dined at the Inn 
of Mr Thomas Eager. I had the Chills & fever. I had kind attention shown me by the friends. I 
Called upon Br John Royce & spent the night. Distance of the day 36 mile. 

Ill spent the day with Br Royce. I had the Chill & fever. I had a prayer meeting at Br Royce. 

12th I visited Elder Jenks at his sloop & then walked up a hard hill as singsing is a hilly place & 
visited Br Washburn & Br Cox. Had the chills & fever. 2. 

13 Sunday I addressed in the fore part of the day. Had the Chills & fever in the Afternoon but 
met with the saints in the evening & broke bread unto them. My mind is much interested these 
days in the gathering of the Jews for they are now fast fulfilling the scriptures by returning to 
Jerrusalem. 

141 walked down the Hill to Br Royce & spent the day. I again had the Chills & fever. My mind 
was unusually impressed this morning about my family. I pray the Lord to support them in all 
their trials sickness or afflictions. 1 m. 

151 spent the day at Br Royce in reading the Church History of John Lawrence Mosheim D. D. I 
read all under the 4th Century during the reign of Constantine & also the first part of 2d century. 

16th I spent the day at Br Royce. I missed my chills & fever. 

171 spent the day reading History. I am improving in health. I have not had chills for three days. 
Sister Royce has nourished me up much to my advantage. 


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18th Spent the day at Br Royce. 

19th I took the Parting hand with the Saints in singsing. I went on board the sloop sea gul at 8 
oclok & arived in New York at 1 1, but 3 hours on the way they tore the Sail against the bomb of 
a ship. I had a plesant conversation with Capt Jenks. 36. 

20 I met with the Church in New York & spoke in the fore part of the day. I felt thankful for the 
privilege of once more meeting with the Saints in the city. I met with them in the evening. I had a 
plesant interview with Elder Foster the presiding Elder of the branch. 

21st I Called upon Br Ilus F Carter. From thence I Called upon Sister Ellen Graham in 88 
Bowery st. [] I recieved a letter from Mrs Woodruff. 

22 I Crossed the East River & Preached at night at the house of Elder Stones & spent the night at 
Br Sniders. 

23 ^ I wrote a letter to Mrs Woodruff & spent the night with Elder Foster 3 [67/5 1?] Broom st. 

24 I was feeble in body. I spent the day at Sister Grahams. ! ! ! To my great joy I have just herd the 
Elder P P Pratt has just come to New York with his family & a number of the Twelve are 
expecting to be here soon. 

251 had an interview with Br P. P. Pratt & also with Br Hiram Clark who arived in the City to 
day. 

26 I spent the day at Sister Grahams. I wrote a letter to Sister Eunice & In the evening I attempted 
to ^ visit Br Burge in king st 4 1 . 1 walked from Bowery to Broad way & took stage to stop at king 
st but the driver did not understand me & he left me a mile from Br Burge & in walking to the 
place being weak In body I was flung into a great perspiration & I took a severe & dangerous 
cold which settled upon my lungs. I spent the evening at Brother Burge. Br Parley & a number of 
other Elder[s wer?] present. 

27th Sunday I attended meeting at the greenwich Academy in King st 93. P. P. Pratt Preached 
three discourses during the day which was interesting. 

28 I spent the day at Brother McClains. My cough is still severe. 

Three men Called in the evening one of which was lame to have Elder Pratt heal him that they 
might have a sign in order to believe the work of God. But a sign they did not get. I had an 
interview with Br Lane, & spent the night at Br Albright 94 King st. 2 m. 

29th I spent the day at Br Albrights. I sent a package to Ilus at his Store by Br Clark that was put 
into my hands by Br Parley from Phebe. My Cold is still severe but the fever & ague appears to 
have left me. 

30 I walked to Elder P. P. Pratts abiding place 109 Charlton st. From thence to Br McClains, & 


Page234 




Ilus F Carters. From thence to Br Burge 41 King st & made some arangements with the brethren 
that were to ship for England on the morrow viz Elders Clark Wright & Mullenar & then to Br 
Albrights & spent the night. 4 m. 

3 1 f I wrote a letter to Br Luther Scammans & Sister Foss. 

November 

NOV 1st I accompanied the above named brethren on board the Packet Ship Tarolinta Capt 
Smith bound for Liverpool. They took Steerage Passage and looked quite Comfortable. After 
committing thes Beloved brethren unto God I took the Parting hand with them. I was expecting 
to go with them, but thought it wisdom to tarry untill more of the quorum of the Twelve arived so 
that we night hold a conference in New York before we set sail. 

May the Lord grant those Brethren a safe passage I Pray. I travled over the City much during the 
day. Sister Pratt had a sick day with the Chills & fever. His two Children have it also. 3 m. 

2d f I wrote a letter to Br Nathaniel Thomas. * (37)1 copied a short extract from A paper as 
follows: Moses Montifier's brother in Law to Rothchild lately visited Egypt & made three 
proposal to the Pacha of Egypt. 1st to esstablish a bank in Egypt with a Capitol of $10,000,000 
dollars. 2d To Purchase lands in Syria for the Jews. 3d To make the oath of the Jews Admitable 
through Syria & Palestine. 

3d Sunday I met with the Saints. P. P. Pratt Preached during the day. The evening was spent in 
hearing from a Number of Elders by [ ]. 2 m. 

4th I visited I. F. Carter Br Pratt & a number of friends. It is election today. 3. 

5th I left N. York Crossed the South ferry to Brooklin & took the rail car & went to Hempsted at 
which Place the Car Stoped. I walked two miles to the toll gate kept by Br Selah Lane. I spent the 
night with Br Lane. I had a fair view of the country during the days travel on Long Island. The 
serface of the earth is vary level resembling the Illinois prairies. We had a hard Storm during the 
night. I spent the night at [ ]. 23 miles. 

6th I spent the day at Br Lanes. I held a meeting at the school house in South Hempsted & spent 
the night at Benjamin Reymon's. 3 m. 

7 I spent the day at Br James Whaley. 

8 I held a meeting in Hempsted at the Inn of Mr John Ackley & returned to Mr Whaley. 6 m. 

I saw Mrs Woodruff in deep affliction in a dream at Montrose. I did not see Sarah Emma. 

9th I ;}■ wrote a letter to Elder Milton Holmes & spent the day at Br Whaleys. 

10th Sunday I rode to Rockaway & Preached in the fore Part of the day at Mrs D Motts & in the 


Page235 




Afternoon at the house of Lawrence Bond & in the evening again at Mrs D Motts. 6 m. 

Ill spent the day at Mrs D Motts & in the evening I walked to Mr Jacob Brower & spent the 
night. A number of the family belonged to the Church. 

I had a dream during the night & had an interview with Mrs Woodruff, But did not see Sarah 
Emma. I travelled a distance with Judge Higby in a hard storm in my dream. I also saw Br David 
Patten who was Martered in Missouri. 

12 I walked to Mrs D. Mott & spent the day. In the evening I rode to Benj Reynon & preached at 
his house & returned to Mrs D Motts & spent the night. 6. 

Nov 13th I took a walk this morning in the Rockway burying ground. I visited one grave eight 
rods in length in which was intered 125 bodies all at the same time & 30 at an other making 155 
in all. They lost their lives by being wrecked on Rock[way?] beach by the Ship Mexico on the 1st 
day of January 1837 and were intered on the 5 day. 

I spent the day at widow D Motts. The Lord is again restoring my health unto me for which I feel 
thankful. Elder Orson Pratt had arived in New York & came to me this day & spent the night 
with me. 

14th We visited Mr Browers & Preached at night at the house of Mrs D Mott. 

15th We preached at night to Mrs D. Motts to a large congregation. 

16th I walked with Elder Pratt from Rockway to John Pettets. We took a boat & had a Sail to the 
main beach. We saw the wreck of a ship that was flung upon the Shore. After returning Mr Pettit 
Conveyed me to Greenwich Pint whare I spent the night. 1 2. 

17th Sunday I preached 3 times at Mr Reymonds & rode to Mr John Ackleys & spent the night. I 
had an interview with Mr Edward Doughathy. 3 m. 

18th Rode to New York with Mr Ackley. I spent the evening at Br Pratts with a number of Elders 
Benjamin Winchester among the number also a man from England a member [] of Joanna 
Southcoat society. I recieved a letter from Eunice. Distance 23. 

19th CONFERENCE IN NEW YORK. I had an interview in the morning with Elders James, & 
Albert Brown. I met in Conference with the Elders & Church according to Appointment & after 
spending the day in transacting such business as was necessary Elder Lanes case was brought up, 
& tried for being high minded trying to usurp power & taking an unwise course in Preaching. He 
confessed his fault & was restorded. I spent the night at Br Albrights. 

20th I again set in Conference through the forenoon. In the afternoon Elder O Pratt & myself left 
the Conference & in Company with Elder James we took the Steem boat monmouth for 
Middletown at which place we landed. 30 miles. We then took the Stage rode to Freehold 10 
miles & spent the night. 40 miles. 


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21st We walked 8 miles & rode 8 to Br James Ivins. From thence to New Egypt 7 miles & stoped 
at Mr Thomas Harrisons. I preached in the School house to a large Congregations from Hosea 3d 
2 last verses. I spent the night at the house of Abram Vintice. 23 mile. 

22d Elder Pratt & myself attended a debate in the methodist meeting house between mr Spear a 
methodist Preacher & Elder James. It was the 5th Day of the debate & it Closed. I rode 7 miles & 
spent the night with J. Ivins. 7 miles. 

23d I rode 3 miles & held a meeting in the Cream Ridge School house & also in the evening. 
Elder O Pratt Preached & I followed him. I spent the night at the house of Mr James S Lawrence. 
The whole household were believing. <Lawrence and Tilton were of the first class. > 3 miles. 

24th } Sunday I held meeting at the School house. I wrote a lengthy letter to Mrs Woodruff and 
enclosed $1 <dollars in money>. We had a severe Storm. I spent the night at the house of Geo. 
Woodward. 

25th } I wrote A letter to Sister Eunice. I Preached at the Cream Ridge Brick School house at 
night & rode home with Br James Ivins & spent the night with him. 4 m. 

26th I Preached at the brick school house & returned & spent the night with J Ivins. 6 m. 

27 I spent the evening preaching at the brick school house & spent the night with Elder James at 
the house of Daniel Tilton. I had another attack of the Chills & fever During the night. It was 
brought on by being vary warm while Preaching & immediately Chilled afterwards. 4 miles. 

28th I spent the day at Mr Tiltons & the night, & had a dream while upon my bed. And '? in my 
Dream I saw Mrs Woodruff & notwithstanding we rejoiced much at having an interview with 
each other yet our embraces were mixed with sorrow for after conversing 'T a while about her 
domestic affairs I asked whare Sarah Emma was (our ownly Child). She Says weeping <and 
kissing me> She is dead. We sorrowed a moment & I awoke. Phebe Also said she had not 
received my letters. 

Is this dream true? Time must determin. This dream was a warning of what was to come. Sarah 
Emma Died 17th of July AD 1840. 

29th I spent the day & night with Br John Woodward reading a debate between a Universalist & 
Prysbeterian. 

30th In company with Elder James I held a meeting at Mr George Myres. 

December 

Dec 1 st Sunday I Preached at the brick school house & communed with the Church & rode to 
Hornerstown & Elder James Baptized two. I spent the night at Mr Wm. Woodward. 5. 


Page237 




2d I spent the day at Mr Woodwords. I wrote a letter to Sister Betsey Cossett. 

^ 3d A Stonny Day which I spent at Mr Woodwards. Walked to the School house at night 
through the mud but no meeting. Returned to Woodwards & spent the night. 3 m. 

4th Attended a meeting at the brick School house. Elder P. P. Pratt Preached to a large 
congregation. I spent the night at Br Samuel Mores. 2 m. 

5th ^ I wrote a letter to Elder JOHN HERRETT, And walked to New Egypt & preached to a large 
Congregation & spent the night with Mr Abram Burtis. 3. 

6 I walked to Homerstown & spent the night with Br James Curtis. 3. 

7th } I wrote a letter to Br Dwight Webster. I walked to the School house. Held a meeting. 

8 Sunday I Preached at the School house rode to James Ivins & spent the night. 4 miles. 

9th I spent the day conversing with Dr Ells. 

101 spent the day in reading the researches and missionary labours among the Jews 
Mahomed[ens?] & other sects by the Rev Joseph Wolff during his travels between the years 183 1 
& 1835 which I found highly interesting. 

Dec 1 1th I took the Parting hand with Elder James & James Ivins & left at 1 1 oclock AM. Rode 
16 miles to Freehold. I there took the Stage & rode to Middletown point 12 miles & then took 
Steem boat wave to New York. I Called upon Elder P. P. Pratt in Mott street No 58 whare I 
found him & Elder Ball. 

I walked to the Post Office whare I obtained three [] two for myself & one for O. Pratt from his 
wife, who stated that my wife & Child were both geting better. One letter was from Sister Eunice 
Dated Dec 7th. The other letter was from Elder Milton Holmes Nov 17th. 

I found New York full of Soldiers preparing to go to the Albany war to fight some of the citizens 
of their own States. Thus war & rumours of war are heard. 

I attended meeting in the evening in Grand st in the Columbian Hall. Herd a lecture from P P 
Pratt on the authenticity of the Book of mormon & the origin of the American Indians. 58 mile. 

12th I Mailed Papers to Father's Woodruff & Carters & mrs Woodruff. I attended a conference in 
Mott st 58 at P. P. Pratts In the Case of Elder Joseph Ball & as a number of accusations were 
brought against him, I spent the night at Br Symons. I saw Ilus F Carter. 4. 

13 } I wrote a letter to Mrs Woodruff & sent her $5 dollars. Elder Turley also wrote to his wife. I 
again met in Conference at 7 oclok at Elder Pratts. We had an interesting time in our Conference. 

Elder * (38)John Taylor has Just arived in New York. I had an interview with him to day. After 


Page238 




Passing through a severe fit of sickness he was enabled to continue his Journey & has arived at 
the City. And all the Twelve have had a sick hard time in geting along on their mission this 
season. Elder Taylor spent the night with me at Br Symons. 3 m. 

14 { } } I wrote a letter to sister Eunice, & answered an important question. Walked to Br 
Albrights & spent the night. 

However befor retiring to rest I walked about 1 1/2 miles in the City to see a large fire in cedar 
street the first large fire I ever attended. It Commenced in 45 Ceder street & Consumed it with all 
its Contents also 49 both of which were large buildings filled with Cotton & dry goods. The loss 
estimated at $300,000 dollars. 3. 

Dec 15th Sunday I spent the day with the Saints in the Columbian Hall No 263 Grand st & 
Preached in the fore part of the day, & Elder Taylor Preached in the Afternoon & P P Pratt 
Preached in the evening. I spent the night with Br Taylor at Br Holmes. 

16th I went on board the Packet ship Oxford & engaged my Passage to Liverpool to Sail on the 
19th inst. I also wrote a letter to Father & Mother Carter. I spent the } evening in making 
preperations for our departure. 6 m. 

17th } I wrote a letter to Phebe, Containing a short address to Br & Sister Smoot. I attended a 
meeting at night at the house of Br Nizbot in Houston Street. We had a spiritual meeting. P P 
Pratt Prophesyed that the History of this mission of the twelve should be known unto all Nations. 
I spent the night at Br Simons. 2 m. 

18th I laboured hard all day to prepare for our voyage. Three of us got our baggage on board viz 
Elders Taylor Turley & myself. Elders Turley & myself sleped on board. 4. 

{Dec 19th 1839} The Packet Ship Oxford moved out into the Stream with us on board & the day 
was spent amid the greatest confusion & bustle that I ever witnessed for they had taken many 
more passengers than births to lodge in & the Cabin was stuffed full of chests boxes barrels beds 
&c & many quarrelling for what they Called their rights. 

20th Bustle & Confusion is not over. The ship is still at anchor. At 12 oclok she spread her 
Canvass & set sail assisted a few miles by a Steem Boat. She sailed well through the day. The 
Oxford had on board 64 Steerage & 15 Cabin Passengers. Capt John Rathbone, 1st Mate Yates, 
2d Jones, 1 Carpenter, 26 Sailors, making 109 Souls in all. Fare for Steerage $15. Cabin $1.40 
including wines $ 1 .20 without. 

21 st A Stiff fair breeze but most all on board are sea sick. We see a sail south of us. She left N 
York the Time we did. She is bound for London. 

22d Sunday Most are Still Sick. A high wind through the day & a high gale at night. Sea vary 
rough & boat pitched badly. 


Page239 




23d Sea vary rough & winds high. Many Still are sick. Our cabin is Crouded & unholesone. 

24th The Sea Runs mountains High & looks like the hills & valleys of Kirtland. We shiped some 
heavy seas. I got wet yet I sat upon deck untill late in the evening. Though it was winter it was 
not vary Cold. 

25th A Calm in the morning yet the ship rocked bad upon the dead swells. The wind soon rose & 
we sailed fast through the day & night. 

26th A Rough Sea & strong breeze. We sail fast. 

27th Fair wind. Sail fast dut do not know how many not. Had a number of short squalls. We have 
got over our sea sickness & have good Appetite. 

28 A vary rough sea, most of the day. We saw a large school of porposes & Blackfish all around 
the Ship. We had a Calm in the evening. 

29 Sunday A Piesant day & a high breeze. 

30 A rough Sea. A severe gale at night. The Ship rocked & pitched to such a degree it was with 
much difficulty that we kept our births. Trunks Boxes & barrels were tumbling about the cabin. 

3 1 The last day of AD 1839. Sea still vary rough. Under closs reef top sails. Cloudy weather. 
Their is not much to interest the mind on a sea voyage while one is many days out of sight of 
land except the rolling billows which are majestic. A person is freequently not ownly out of sight 
of land but do not even see a sail or the sun, but have to be crouded together in a Steerage like 
hogs or stay upon deck in the midst of spray wind & storm. 

This day leaves me in the centre of the Atlantic from NY to Liverpool. Whole distance 3,800 
miles. Half the distance sailed in Dec 1839 1,900 miles. 

{========================= 

A Synopsis of the travels and labours of W. Woodruff in A.D. 1839. 


I travelled in ten of the United States and crossed one half the Atlantic making a distance of 
4,626 miles. 


I held thirty four meetings. 34 Meetings 

j_ 1 attended the baptism of a number of Persons, but did not baptize but one. 

1 Baptized 

1 Attended Seven Conferences. 7 Conferences 


Page240 




I Attended eight Councils, with the first Presidency & Twelve. 

8 Councils 

I Ordained three Elders. 3 Elders 

" " one Priest. 1 Priest 

I Administered to Sixteen sick persons by the layings on of hands. 

Many were healed. 16 Sick 

I Wrote thirty five Letters. 35 Letters 

I Recieved Six Letters. 6 Letters 

I recorded in this Journal one discourse from the Prophet Joseph to the Twelve. 

1 Reported 

I Confirmed one. 1 Confired 

I Procured ten five-subscribers for the messenger & Advocate. 

10 Subscribers 


=} 


W. Woodruffs list of the number baptized in Herefordshire England 1840 Note(39) 


Wilford Woodruffs Baptismal Record 1840 


V 


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V/r* 




1 






•y 

C-/~ f4r Wj/ <v. **- 

J /) i'll 4^^ 

i /}*,*. /<* » 


Hill Castle Frume Herefedshire Church 

John Benbow /teacher/ 

Jane Benbow 
Ann Bo[um?] 


Page241 



Mary Rowberg 
Charles Price /priest/ 

John Cheese /March 6 priest/ 

Joseph Pullin 
[M?]ar Garet Pullins 
James Hill /priest/ 

John Parry /priest/ 

Jane Ga[itry?] 

/John/ William Benbow <[-]> 8th 
Charlotte Clark Snday 8th 

Ann Benbow 
presthood Benbow 
Sarah Benbow 
Hellen Benbow 
Ann Parry 
Robert Holmes 

/20/ Elizabeth Holmes /March 9th/ 

/Hannah/ [Sara?]h Badham 

Mary Hill 

Ann Bowbery 

Ann Smith 

James Bames /priest/ 

James Benbow 
Mary Ann Holmes 
Robert Hill 
Thomas Jinkins 
Hannah Williams 
Sarah Tumkins 
William Evens 10th 

William Davis 

Johnathan Davis 

Caroline Gaston 13th 

Confinned Sundy 15th 22 persons 

William Jinkins 

John Williams 

Mary Cheese 16th 

Francis Birch <[-]> 

/20/ Ann Birch 


Page242 




James Gumey 20th 

Thomas Kington <[-]> Elder 
Hannah Kington 
George Brown 
Ann Teague 21st 6th 

/Sunday 22 confirmed/ 

John Fi[nd?]oe 
Lydia Fi[nd?]oe 
John Benbow 
Elizabeth Benbow 
Elizabeth Woodyatt 
Mary Cole 
May Jones 
Harriet Taylor 
Hannah Knot 
Rebecca Tyler 
Harriet Hill /March 23 d/ 

Wm. Jinkins <priest> 

Daniel Browett <priest> 

John Gaily <priest> 

/20/ Elizabeth Browett 
William Parsons 
Mary Parsons 
James Hadley 
Maria Hadley 
John Shepherd 

Baptized & confirmed /8/ 24th 

Richard Hull 
William Williams 
Philip Green 
Jane Green 
Ann Graves 
John White 
Francis Brush 
Baptized March 27th 

George Allen 

Thomas Benbow March 28th 
Thomas Smith 


Page243 




Elizabeth Davis 
James Watkins 
William Morris 
Mary Proser 
/20/ Susanna Morris 
John Dyer 
Benjamin Williams 
Mary Williams 
Ann Dutson 
Harriet White 
Thomas Hope 
Eliza Parry 

35 personsBaptized & confirmed March 29 

John Morgan 

Mary Powel 

Elizabeth Hill 

Elizabeth Tringham 

Ann Benbow 

Thomas Clark 

Edward Philips prist 

Edward Ginkins Herefordshire 

Melina Prichard Frooms Hill 

Baptized & confirmed March 30th 

John Preece 
Mary Ann Prie[tt?] 

Hannah Pullen 
/ 1 00/ Mary Pitt 
Hannah Pitt 
James Palmer 
Henry Palmer 
James Palmer jr. 

James Bishop 
Elizabeth Bishop 
Elizabeth Smith 
Rosanah Baylis /Greenway/ 

Lydia War March 3 1st 

Dianna Bloxham 
Margarett Crook 
Susanna Margarett 


Page244 




Frederick Evans 

Joseph Baylis 

Mary Hill 

Eliza Jinkins 

Mary Ann Weston 

Elizabeth Lambert 

/Glostershire Ligh / April 2d 

Ann Brooks 
/20/ Jane Brooks 
Sarah Smith 
Mary Smith 
Mary Packard 
Susan Packard <[-]> 

Sarah Embary 

Elizabeth Bubb 

Mary Hanes 

Margarett Turner 

Mary Roberts April 4th 

Worcestershire Gatfield's Elm 

Thomas Oakey 
Ann Oakey 
William Simons 
Levi Roberts 

Nathan Roberts /Died Jun [-]/ 

Charles Hayes 

Harriet Roberts 

Sarah Roberts 

Ann Efford April 5th Ligh 

Daniel Collett (Church Clark) 

140 Thomas Smith 
John Spiers 
Mary Robins 
Harriet Hayes 6th 

Worcestershire Elders field 

John Vernon 
Thomas Smith 
John Harlick 
Ann Robins 
William Baylis 


Page245 




Henry Baylis 
Mary Gaskin 

Glostershire Ligh April 8th 

Mary Bunday 
Elizabeth Rook 
Robert Rook 
Elizabeth Collett 
Benjamin Hill 9th Hawcross 
Worceshire 

Margarett Morgan 

Hannah Palmer 

Mary Cleft 10th greenwal 

1 1th I started for Preston to attend conference & retumd on the 22 in Company with Elders 
Brigham Young, S[telen T Singler?]. [Baptized?] the following Persons: 

April 1 1th greenway 
James Williams 
20 James Clift 

Eliza Whithorn 
William Smith 14th 
Hannah M. Harris 
Ann Robins 
Mary Palmer 

William Gaskins 15 Apperly 

Ann Morgon 

Jane Parry 19 greenway 

Priest John Cheese Baptized the following: 

William Green 
Thomas Bishop Lugwardine 
Clar[ke?] the Baker 
Walker Mayos Mardon 
James Baldwin 
Samuel Warren 
Esther Deveroix 
Elizabeth May[ok?] 

Hannah Hooper 
Elizabeth Baykis 
Joseph Williams 


Page246 




/120/ Marian Shinn 

Charlotte Shinn 

Elizabeth Morris 

Mary Mayel 

John Allard 

Mary Allard 

Hariet Baldwin 

William Williams 

William Mathews Keysend St 


<Wilford Woodruff> confirmed 19 of the above [-] 12 

<Wilford Woodruff> Baptized the following: 

George Brooks 
Mary Brooks 
Edmund Wattis 
Hannah Wattis 
William Beard 
Elizabeth Johnson 
Ann Baylis 
Susan Baylis 
Mary Baly 
Maty Haywood 

Baptized & confirmed at Crawcutt Worcestershire 
Sunday April 26, 1840 

Mary Philips 
/200/ Ester James 
Mary Jinkins <[— ]> 

Baptized & confirmed at Moorends Cross 27th 

William Jones 

William Morris 

Thomas Bosley 

Maty Rowbrey 

B Young frooms hill April 27 

Ann Hope 
Sarah Hope 
Thomas Baker 


Page247 




Mary Mayos 
William Jay 
Catharine Jay 
Thomas Whiting 
Ann Whiting 
Ann Jay 
Hannah Baker 
J Chess Marden May 1st 

John Meeks 
William Johnson 
James Williams 
Ann Beard 

/220/ Elizabeth South Confirmed 

<Wilford Woodruff> Bowery near Ashfield May 5 

Susan Williams 
Rachel Jinkins 
Ann Rowley 
Ann Jones 
Mariah Prichard 
Henry Jones 
Susanna Barrup 
Henry Griffits 
Hanna Weaver 

<Wilford Woodruff> Baptized & confirmed May 6th 
nightengale Bower near Birchwood 

Samuel Jones 
Jonathan Lucy 
Melina Cook 
Maria Hill May 10th 

<Wilford Woodruff> Baptized & confirmed at Coldwall 

John Arvart 
John Moris 
Thomas Jones 

J Parry Baptized at Wind Point May 3d 

Ann Steed 
Mary Symons 
Ann Bartlet 
720/ Phebe Davis 


Page248 




<Wilford Woodruff> 2 Baptied & confirmed at wind 

point May 1 1th 

Sarah Stanton 

Mary Foxall 

Jemima Symons 

Margaret Hill 

<Wilford> Baptized & Confirmed at Brand lodge May 
12 th 

Edward Prosser 
Jane Williams 
Jane Everals 
Mary Hull 
Thomas Vernal 
/Ann Vernal/ 

Thomas Gurney 
Jane Banister 

Ann Philips Stokes Lane May 3d 

James Price 

Ann Price 

Elizabeth Williams 

Emma Shinn 

Mary Shinn 

Ann Deveroix May 10th 

John Cheese Baptized the above keysend street 

12201 Mary Patoe 

Ann Davis 

Hannah Thomas 

<Wilford Woodruff> 200 May 13th 

<Wilford Woodruff> Baptized & confirmed frooms hill 

Elener Gaily 

John Cole J. Cheese frooms Hill May 13 
John Lewis 

Eliza Lewis T Clark frooms Hill 13th 
Francis Hill 

<Wilford Woodruff> Baptized & confirmed keysen st 
May 15 

Elders Richards & Kington had Baptized 50, confirmed 100 Ordained 10 priest 1 Teacher from 
1st of May to the 15. 


Page249 




300 + 17 over 


George Bundy May 17 Toakey Gadfield cl[ose?] 

Robert Clift 
Elizabeth Clift 
James Morgan <[-]> 

<Wilford Woodruff> Baptized at Pitthouse Dymock 

William Coleman 

Job Smith 

Sophia Whittle 

Sarah Whittle 

Ann Hunt 

Sarah Smith 

Charlott Stewart 

Ester Harris 

Elder Kington Baptized at Halkington May 18 

John Davis 
John Smith 
Mary Ann Clark 
Caroline Moore 
Jane Smith 

<Wilford Woodruff> Baptized at Halkington May 18 
James Bolter 

James Palmer Baptized 18 
Francis Probert 

Lydia Matthews Bap James Morgan 18 

Mary Webb 
Charlotte Walters 
/20/ Eliza Shinn 
Caroline Trehern 

<Wilford Woodruff> Baptized at Keysend street 19th 
Ann Perkins 20th 

Robert Baldwin Wind point Richards 
James Foxall 21 

Hannah Foxall Brand Lodge Richards 
Mary Haywood 

Ann Lucy T Clark Cornwall 17th 


Page250 




William Smith 
George Eddins 
William Rowley 

<Wilford Woodruff> Baptized 24th Tapperdy 

Susanna Higgins 
Joseph Haywood 
John Field 
Hannah Field 
Elizabeth Meeks 
Ann Jones 

<Wilford Woodruff> Baptized at Bowery May 25th 

Hannah Pullin <Wilford Woodruff> Bap at Bishop 
Froome 27th 
Eliza Gurney 
Elizabeth Davis 
1201 Hannah Even 
Ann Sanders 

<Wilford Woodruff> Baptized at Creeks Green 28th 

Joseph Evens May 17 

Thomas Sanders J Cheese Greek Green 

Jane George 
Elizabeth Hall 
Mary Robery 
Elizabeth Robery 
William Hall 

<Wilford Woodruff> Baptized at Hope Rough May 28 

Ann Daniels 
Ann Banister 
John Powel 
Elizabeth Powel 
Sarah Rock 

<Wilford Woodruff> Baptized at Shucknel Hill May 
29th 

Ishmael Philips 

Elizabeth Pitt Richards at Shucknell Hill 30 
Benjamin Meeko Bap dy Prist Jinkins 


Page25 1 




Elizabeth Clement bap Jones 

Thomas Powis 
Sarah Powis 

20 Mary Tyler T Clark 26th 

Samuel Badham 
Francis Holmes 
Hannah Holmes 
Elizabeth James 
Elizabeth Birch 
Elizabeth Went 
Hannah Bishop 
Mary James 
William Embry 
John Birch 
Elizabeth Embry 

<Wilford Woodruff> Bap at Frooms Hill <[-]> May 3 1st 
Mary Brooks 

Mary Jonsey J Cheese F Hill May 3 1st 

Sarah Loggin 
Elizabeth Cole 

William Cole {<Wilford> 250} 

Susan Simmons 
Elizabeth Dutton 
Mary Philips 
Sarah Morris 

<Wilford Woodruff> Bap at Frooms Hill June 1st 
400 

Richard Parry 

Ann Parks <Wilford Woodruff> Bap froom hill June [-] 

Rosanna Hill 
Mary Partridge 
Rebecca Symsons 
Eliza Trehurn 
Mary Ann Atwood 

James Bishop J Cheese Keysend street 
Joseph Firkins little Marcle 


Page252 




Elizabeth Firkins J. Palmer May 25th 
John Pitt 

Elizabeth Matthews 
Ester Jones 
John Jones 

Richard Lilley T Kington May 3 1st 

William Philips 

John Hunt 

Mary Portman 

Mary Humphreys 

/20/ Sarah Whitem 

Ester Harris, Lime street T Oaky 

John Meredith By John Spires turkey Hah June 7th 

Samuel Roberts 
Elizabeth Roberts 
Ann Hopkins 
Mariah Hopkins 
Hannah Hopkins 
Mary Ann Smith 

<Wilford Woodruff> Baptized at Deerhurst June 9th 

William Loveridge 
Sarah Bail 
Eliza Davis 
Elizabeth Clark 

<Wilford Woodruff> at Twigworth June 1 1th 

Mary Ann Matty Brewett Lye 1 1th 

George Curtis 

George Curtis Brewitt bye 

Priest James Morgan Baptized 1 1 persons at Little Garway Herefordshire. They were Confirmed 
by Elders Richards June 4th to 10. 

20 & 6 over 

James Lewis, J. Palmer June 12 
John Layton 

Margarett Layton Kington 1 1th 


Page253 




John Watkins 
Ann Watkins 
William Pitt 

Abraham Serwen Kington 13th 

James Hawthorn 

John Roberts T Oaky 14th 

Eliza Brace 
Sarah Gibbs 
Charles Fox 
Jane Green 
/20/ Ann Hackford 
Eliza Hackford 
Sarah Hackford 

Ellen Green June 7th Philip Green 

Charles Powel 

John Tyler 

Maria Gibbs 

Susan Tyler 

Jane Dutson 

Mary Gibbs 

<Wilford Woodruff> Baptized at Lugwardin June 17th 

Hannah Bubb 
Sarah Taysom 

Ann Barber P Green Lugwardin June 16th 

Ann El 
Thomas Jones 
Ann Edwards 
Rebecca Tew 
Susan Tew 
Francis Burnett 
Ann Burnett 
/20/ Elizabeth Wheeler 
James Turley 

<Wilford Woodruff> Baptized at Marden June 18th 

Maria Lane 
Emma Tew 

Lucy Tasem, Philip Green Lugwardin 18th 
John Tiler 


Page254 




Mary Ilenbwy 

<Wilford Woodruff> Bap at Frooms Hill June 19th 

Henry Rock Bap Priest Williams Shuknell hill 18 

Ann Jennings 
Jane Tylor 
Mary James 
Sarah Wall 
Sarah Cole 
James Cole 
Ellen Clark 

<Wilford Woodruff> Bap at Frooms Hill June 20th 

Hannah Cole 

Sarah Hembery 

Sarah Hadley 

Mary Powis 

Eliza Powis 

/500/ Richard Bough 500 <[--]> 

William Tippin 
Margarett Leseman 
John Clark 
John Debrowx 
Thomas Launset 
John James 
Emma Bevehenl 
Elizabeth Johyons 
John Johns 
Richard Bullock 

Maty Bullock Frooms Hill June 20th 

The above were Baptized by Thomas Clark priest 

Eliza Clark <Wilford Woodruff> Frooms Hill June 20 


Louisa Louis 
Elizabeth Tylor 
James Gettings 
Mary 

Ann Morris 
Elizabeth Morris 
Susanna Prosser 
1201 James Taylor 
James Hill 


T Clark 21 
C. Price 

W Parsons 


J Cheese 
P Green 20 


Page255 




J Gaily 21 
J Barnes June 8th 


Mary Badham 
Ann Casthope 
Sarah Bengough 
Maria Femal 
Ann Fernal 
Sarah Gardner 
Caroline Williams 
Joseph Harbour 
Hannah Jones 
John Baily 
Margaret Dovey 
John Robety 

<Wilford Woodruff> Bap at Froomshill 21 


W Evens 14th 




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Thomas Hooper T Clark 2 1 

Ann Cole 
Sarah James 
Ann Cole 
Richard Cole 
Martha Clark 

W Woodruff Bap at frooms hill 22d 

The above makes Just 300 that W Woodruff has baptized on this circuit 
/20/ Sarah Clark 

Jane Elton, T Clark froom hill 22d 


Page256 




Robert Gomery, W Woodruff Ledbury 22d 

242 were Baptized on this same circuit by Elders Young Richards Kington & others which 
makes the Church number on the 22 of June 542 with 75 officers viz 33 churches 10 Elder 52 
Priest 13 Teachers. All of the Above have received the work & been baptized during the term of 
three month & 17 days & scores still waiting to be Baptized as soon as an opportunity offers. I 
left Ledbury June 23d to attend a conference in Manchester. 


2 

January 1st 1840 
to 

December 31st 1840 Note(40) 


j j 

MLLFOmiYOOmFr 

OMILY JOfftSs+L 

.-4 .V C> I 


3% iO 


WHILES 



Willford Woodruffs 
Daily Journal 
and 

Travels in the Ministry 
in 1840 

in England & Wales *(41) 


Page257 





Click to view full size image. 


January 

JAN 1st 1840 I find myself in Company with Elders John Taylor & Theadore Turley on board of 
the packet Ship Oxford of the Black Bull line on our way from New york to Liverpool to fulfill a 
commandment of God in preaching the gospel of Jesus Christ to the Nations of Europe. We are 
in Long 42.40. We have a vary rough Sea, High winds blustering & cloudy. I am about 1,900 
miles from both Liverpool & New york being in the centre of the Atlantic as it is called. 3,800 
miles from New york to Liverpool. We Left New york dock on the 19th day of Dec 1839 & 
sailed on the 20th. So time rolls along & waiteth for no man. Note(42) 

2d The Sun rose clear. It was the first time we had seen the Sun for 5 days. We have a calm this 
morning. There is a vessel in sight of us the first one we have seen since we left N.Y. It was 
astern of us. Elders Taylor, Turley, & myself sat down upon the anchor & had a [croc?]k of 
Butemuts. 

Jan. 3d A good day. Fair Sailing & good breeze. We were in full view of two Sail one fore & the 
other aft of us. We soon overtook the one before us & spoke to her & found her to be a British 
Brigg Sailed from Halifax & bound for Liverpool & 20 days at sea. Her Long was 33.30. She 
raised British colors. The Oxford raised american Colors & her Long was 34.40. 

4th Fair weather, wind right aft, & a stiff breeze & sail fast. They had a time of butchering hogs 
& sheep on board. 

5th Sunday Rough Sea, High winds, & rain in the morning. Sea & winds more calm at noon. We 
saw a large School of porposes. We have a Calm & plesant evening which we spent on deck 


Page258 





viewing the stars & ocean. 

6th A pleasant morning & a calm but having 12 sails spred we travled about 3 miles an hour. 

7th We have a dead calm to Day in Long 17.40. We spoke a Scottish Bark named Georgeana 
from Leith Scotland bound for Granada a west India Island this her 7th day at Sea her Long 17 
40. A number of Birds Such as Sea Guls were flying around the Ship & the passengers Shot 
Several of them & they fell dead into the water. We saw a large School of porposes & blackfish. 
Some of the Blackfish were Supposed to be as much as 20 feet in length. They would roll on top 
of the water all around the Ship. 

8th A good Stiff breeze arose about 1 oclok P.M. & we sailed well through the day. A lighted tar 
Barrel was Set afloat from the Ship in the evening which looked splendid at Sea. 

9th Cloudy & Cold. Smooth Sea & fair breeze. It grows Coldier as we draw nearer to land. We 
are about entering the St Georges channel or the mouth of it & Ho, Ho, the cry of land is herd 
from mast head. We went on to the fore castle & after Straining our eyes a few moments we got 
Sight of it. It was the Irish coast laying 3 points to our Lee bow. This is the first land we have 
seen for 20 days. At 8 oclok in the evening the serching lamp at the light house at cape clear 
came in full view. <The company of passengers was disturbed by the> grling <of some wicked 
[-]•> 

10th The mountains of the Irish coast are in full view & also 6 or 7 Sail. The weather is cloudy & 
rather cool. We have good wind & Sail fast. We have a plesant evening & walked the decks 
untill 9 oclok & viewed the light houses &c. 

1 1th We have a heavy gale commencing about 1 oclok in the morning & we were in some 
danger having the Wellch coast on one Side & the Irish on the other. Their was a great bustle & 
noise on board arising from the command of the Captain & mates & the Singing of the Sailors & 
the whistling of the winds & the roaring of the waters while at the Same time the Ship was 
pitching & rocking to & fro. 

We reached the pilate [ground?] at day light & raised Colours for a pilate to come on board. A 
pilate Boat soon appeared & came along Side & gave us a pilate, & he informed us that the 
Liverpool had not yet arived. She was a Steem Ship & started 5 days before us & the 
Independance had not got in & she started 10 days before us. 

The pilate had no sooner came on board before the Steem Ship Liverpool hove in sight over our 
Stem. The pilate ordered the Sail to be spread notwithstanding it was blowing a gale. We then 
gained fast of the Liverpool, & their was many Sail floating upon our right & left hand. There 
was much bustle among the passengers in shaving, washing & preparing themselves to go on 
shore. 

The City of Liverpool soon was in sight & an English Steem Boat soon came along side & towed 
us into port or the dock in Liverpool. We got along side of the key a few minutes before the 


Page259 




Liverpool or Independance. The Oxford Liverpool & Independance all reached the dock within 
30 minutes of each other. Their was 109 souls of us all who reached the Shore in good health & 
spirits. Our company was composed of Americans, English, Scotch, Irish, Wellch, & Dutch. 

We went into Liverpool & visited several Noted places the New Market, custom house, Lord 
Nelsons monument which is much Noted in England &c all of which were quite splendid. We 
took supper in white [depot?] & logings in Church street at the Binningham arms <and may the 
Lord henceforth deliver me from such a place>. Distance from the middle of the Atlantic Ocean 
to Liverpool England 1,750 mi. 

;}■ I wrote three Letters during the evening one to Elder P. P. Pratt one to Ilus Carter, & one to 
Phebe. 

12 Sunday I arose in the morning & took (Breakfast shall I say?). I eat it is true, & used a peace 
of bread, for a plate & my fingers for a knife & fork & was charged high for it at that. I herd 
some of the passengers boast of the superior accomodations in England to those of America. I 
confess I could not eat without smileing thinking if this is the superior English accomodations I 
do not know what those of the next Nation will be. 

I would not wish the reader to understand this to be a proper sample of English customs. But [-] 
we were strangers we had the misfortune to be directed to a place of the above description. We 
paid our Bill & retired. 

We walked to the shiping & through a number of the streets & called at M. Seymour Rotunda 
Place No. 7 Waterloo road to spend the day & night. 

After Dining I attended meeting at St Pauls Church & also St Thomas'es Church both of the 
church of England. It was singular to hear these Rectors & Curits preach against the form of 
Godliness without the power of it, while at the same [time] their is no people perhaps more 
formal than themselves. I also attended meeting at Pitt Street Methodist Chapel. The speaker 
appeared quite easy & simple in his manners. 

All of the above named chapels were quite splended with the stand near the Centre of the house 
which is the English Custom. They bury their dead in the yard all around their Church & lay the 
grave stones flat upon the ground & it forms a pavement to walk upon. 

I find the people both rich & poor, male & female to be much more plain in their dress than those 
of America. I returned to M Seymour & spent the night. 

Jan 13th I took Breakfast & went on board of the Oxford & found the passengers taking their 
trunks & goods on shore to go to the custom house to be examined & I found it to be a scene of 
the greatest confusion I ever past through. But after much jaming crouding & rocking about we 
were pennitted to depart with our things after paying 6 pense per lbs for all the Books we had as 
duty upon them. 


Page260 




The trunkman then took our trunks & Boxes to Mr George Cannon Norfork Street No 43. He was 
a Brother in Law of Elder Taylors. We deposited our provision chest & a box containing our bed 
& beding with him. 

We took our trunks & went to the rail road depo & their took a car for Preston Lancashire 
England & for the first mile the cars run under ground on a track that was cut out of a solid rock 
while their was building & inhabitants over our heads. j 'T <[— ] of the [-].> 

We started from Liverpool about 6 oclock & arived in Preston about 8 oclock & called at Brother 
Greenwoods. They immediately Sent for Elder Richards & in a few moments I had Elder Willard 
Richards by the hand & I truly rejoiced to once more behold his face. We immediately went to 
his house & after spending most of the night in Conversation we retired to rest. Distance of the 
day 35 miles. 

14th I spent the day in Preston writing & visiting the Saints. I dined at Brother John Parkinson & 
Elder Francis Mood. I took supper with Brother Robert Smith & spent the night with Elder 
Richards in Meadow street newhouse oposite No 3. 

I found the Saints in Preston poor but having wann hearts. Preston has a Population of about 
60,000. The streets were crouded with the poor both male & female going to & from the factories 
with their wodden or Clogg Shoes on which makes a great ratling over the pavement. The poor 
are in as great Bondage as the children of Israel in Egypt. 

I find that Elder Richards has had a hard school to pass through since he has been in England. I 
see that we have a great work to perfonn & we have need of much faith & humility before God. 

15th I dined at Brother Worselys & Suped at Sister Dawsons & spent the night at Elder Richards. 
We spent a plesant evening together at Sister Dawsons. Their was 6 Elders of us together viz. 
Richards Taylor, Woodruff, Turley, Clark & David [W?]ilding & a number of wann harted 
Sisters. NB Elder Samuel James wished me to write to him & Direct to Allen Town Monmouth 
County New Jersey. 

16th I dined at Sister Green & had drinking at Sister Nightengales. I had an interview with Elder 
John Moon & priest Hugh Moon. They belonged to the family that Elder Kimble baptized ten of 
the members of it. I spent a plesant evening at Elder Richards in Company with Elders Taylors, 
Richards, Fielding, Turley, Clark, & myseffi We truly rejoiced to have an interview with 
President Fielding. 

17th COUNCIL Jan 17th 1840 At a meeting of Council held at Elder Richards house in Preston 
Lancashire, England. 

Elder Joseph Fielding being called to the chair & Elder Theodore /Turley/ appointed Clerk. The 
president then called upon Elder W. Woodruff to open the meeting by prayer. The president then 
opened the meeting for business, And Stated that the presant business he considerd was the 


Page261 




business of a few days, untill the travling Council fully came into this land. 

Moved & Seconded that Elder's John Taylor & Joseph Fielding, go to Liverpool & that Hiram 
Clark go to Manchester, & Elders W Woodruff & Theadore Turley go to the potterys & there 
inquire the mind of the Lord upon the importance of going to Binningham, & that Elder W 
Richards have the privilege of going whare the spirit direct him. (Carried.) 

Mooved & Seconded that Elder Wm. Clayton as one of the Presidents remain in Manchester to 
preside over the affairs of the Church in that place & vicinity for the time being. (Carried.) 

It was moved & Seconded that every Elder Communicate to the Church p residents of the Church 
of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints at Preston the State & Condition of affairs in the region in 
which they are laboring once evry month for the time being. (Carried.) 

Mooved & Carried that Elder Richards write a Letter to Brothers' Wright & Mu[llener?] in 
Scotland giving them Such instruction as he may Deem Necessary upon the importance of their 
Mission and Such Things as are necessary to caution them against. (Carried.) 

After Various principles being discussed & explained by those of the Twelve present. The 
Council then Adjourned. 

Joseph Fielding President 
Theadore Turley [clerk] 


I spent the night at Brother W. Richards. Write to Elder Joseph Fielding direct to Liverpool at 
Samuel Sidebottom NO 1, Scarlet Street Near St Ann Street. 

18th We met at Elder W Richards in the morning for a season of prayer & fasting & for a 
blessing before we parted. We had a vary interesting time. We gave each other our parting 
blessing. We have had many calls every day to lay hands on the Sick & pray with them & they in 
most cases had relief. 

I took the parting hand with Elder's Taylor & Fielding who were bound for Liverpool, Lancashire 
& with Elder Richards who is expecting to tary for a season in Preston & Elders Clark & Turley 
& myself took the rail Cars & rode to Leyland to wigan. From thence to Manchester Lancashire 
whare I had the happy privilege of taking Elder William Clayton by the hand, & many other 
Saints. Elder Clayton is one of the presidents Council in England & a wise & worthy brother. 

Manchester is the metropolis of the manifacturing Districts in England. It is a beautiful borough 
Containing a Population of 320,000 inhabitants considerable larger on the ground than the City 
of N.Y. in the U.S.A. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints in this town now numbers 
2165 164 souls. 

I had not been with Elder Clayton but a few minutes before I was called upon to visit 3 sick 


Page262 




persons & administer to them according to the order of the gospel ie. by prayer & the laying on of 
hands. 

One case was vary distressing. We found the Sister possessed of the Devel & a burning fever on 
the brain. She was rageing & trying to tare herself although in the hands of three or four men. We 
lade hands upon her & commanded the devil to Depart, & the fever to Stand rebuked in the name 
of Jesus Christ & it was done though not without a great Struggle & we left her ca[hn?] in her 
mind & principly delivered of her pain. 

We took supper at Brother Thomas Millers. Their was 8 saints in the family & they looked good. 

I spent the night with Elder Clayton at Sister Elizabeth Hardman. I administered unto 6 sick 
persons & travled from preston to Manchester. Distance of the day 36 miles. 

19th Sunday Elder Wm. Claytons address is No 4 Chapel Court Jersey Street Great Anceates 
Street Manchester. I met with the Saints in the morning for meeting in Lumbard Street Lower 
Mosly street. Elder Turley preached in the fore part of the day. At noon it was with difficulty that 
we could get out of the house for the press of the Saints wishing to strike hands with us. 

We Dined with Brother James Bewsher a Coachman. We met in the afternoon & after some 
observations from Elder William Clayton I broke bread unto the Saints & preached unto them. 

I also met a large congregation at the same place in the Evening & preached the gospel unto 
them. I had the spirit of God & they gave good attention. One Sister said she saw by vision or 
Revelation Jesus pleading with the Father to spare England one year more that the reapers might 
gather the grain for the harvest was fully ripe. 2 offered themselves for baptism. We confirmed 
one & lade hands upon 20 persons that were Sick or afflicted & they were most universally 
healed. 

The Saints in England have great Confidence in God & his Servents & their is so many apply for 
the laying on of hands that we need as much faith as St. Paul had that at the touch of our 
garments or hankerchefs that they might be healed. We spent the night at Sister Hardman. 

20th The Distress of nations is at the door in fulfillment of the word of God. While confusion is 
through America great trouble is manifest throughout England, & begining in all nations. There 
is trouble this morning in this town of Manchester. About 3,000 souls is flung out of employ at 
the factories because of the pressure of times & the lowering of the wages & they are standing in 
every corner of the Streets in groups counciling what to do, & their are at the present time (I have 
been infonned) thousands of Souls are almost in a State of uter starvation. 

I was called upon with my Brethren to visit a child possessed of the Devil that endeavored to 
destroy the child. It was the child of the Woman that was possessed with the Devil upon whom 
we lade hands Saturday evening. We lade hands upon the child that was reathing under the power 
of the Deavil & commanded the Devil to Depart in the name of Jesus Christ & it was instantly 
done & the child fell asleep. 


Page263 




* (43)Among the signs that are appearing in the heavens & earth in fulfillment of the word of 
God & that the Saints are noticing & prophesying off the following one is worthy of Notice. 
KANTURK Dec 26 1839. Second and most extraordinary Removal of a Bog Near Kanturk. The 
account given under the above head states that 300 acres of Colonel Longford’s bog land rose up 
from its mighty bed & travled with the rapidity of a steam engine for the distance of 4 miles 
carrying destruction in its progress rising in angry surges like the ungovernable sea leaving 10 
feet of earth upon the earth or land in many places as it passed over. 1,200 acres was coverd 10 
feet & 12 acres 30 feet. *(44) 

I lade hands upon 8 sick persons & prayed with them & spent the night at Brother James Rigby in 
Cookson Street NO 2. 

21st Dined with Br John Walker Cookson st. NO 10. We lade hands & anointed Priest Benjamin 
Davis for the healing of his lame leg. We lade hands upon 4 others. Davis NO 4. 

We took the parting hand with Elder Win. Clayton /<after blessing him>/ & the Saints in 
Manchester & took the coach & road through Mackelsfield, Stockport, Congleton, Tunstell, & to 
Burslem in Staffordshire. We spent the night in Burslem with Elder Alfred Cordon at Club 
buildings Navigation road. 

According to the Custum of the Country we rode upon the outside of the Coach & we had an 
exceding Strong wind & rain & Elder Turley took cold & a sore throat. Distance from 
Manchester to Burslem 40 miles. 

I found the Saints in Bursleto numbering 66 & in good health & spirits. /Their is one Elder one 
Priest three Teacher one Deacon./ They began to have some persecution. We found Elder Cordon 
vary faithful and Also priest Henry Glover & Teachers & Deacon. 

22nd Elder Turley is quite ill with sore throat & Cold. 

I am now in the midst of the Potteries which are so noted in England. The potteries include the 
following Market towns: Tunstell Burslem, Hanley, Stoke, Laneend, & several other villages. 

The whole population of the Potteries in 1838 was 65,000. These potteries are for the 
manifactering of English China, Crockery & stone ware of every description. 

We visited Hanley & Sup’d at Brother William Benbow's at Hanley Market Place, Staffordshire 
Potteries. Keeper of Provision Store. Brother Benbow was not at home but we were much 
pleased with his Lady Sister Ann Benbow. She was Strong in faith & manifested much interest at 
our arivel to England from America. 

We preached at Brother Woods in New Castle & spent the night at Elder Cordons in Burslem. 
Distance 5 mil. 

23d :)■ I wrote a Letter to Elder Wm. Clayton at Manchester. We Dined at Brother George 


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Simpsons. We held a prayer meetings at Elder Cordens & had an interesting time. 

24th I preached at night at the house of Br Wm. Hume in canning street in Stoke. Elder Turley 
followed me. 2 came forward for Baptizm &c. 

25 Saturday I spent [the day] in Burslen Meeting at Cordons. We repaired to the water & the 
ordinance was administered by Elder Cordon in the presence of many hundreds. We returned to 
Burslen & spent the night. 8 m. 

26th I preached in Burslem at the preaching house in high Street. Had the spirit of preaching. I 
dined with Brother Henry Glover. I addressed the Saints & broke bread unto them. I took supper 
with Brother Daniel Bower. I preached at night to a crouded congregation in Burslem. The power 
of God rested upon me. I had the attention of the people. 3 was Baptized & I confinned 10 & 
lade hands upon three that was Sick. Elder Turley also preached at Hanley. I returned to Elder 
Cordons to spend the night. [ Two-thirds of a line crossed out and illegible .] 

A worthy Sister wished to wash my feet. I gave her an oppertunity & she did so. I had the spirit 
of prophecy concerning her & delivered it unto her. <She should stand and soon would be the 
wife of an elder, have sons and daughters Her sons should be the priests of God and live in the 
millenium. She is of the blood of Ephraim and will remain until the coming of Christ and many 
additional things the spirit made manifest concerning her.> I spent the night with Elder Cordon. 

29th [Szc?] I attended meeting at Lane end. Elder Cordon preached the kingdom of God would 
come. Elder Turley spoke of the knowledge of God covering the earth as the waters cover the 
great deep &c. I blessed 5 children & lade hands upon 5 that were sick. Spent the night in 
Burslem. Took supper with Brother Isaac Whittaker. Distance of the day 14 miles. 

28th I applyed for a license but the justice had not power to grant me one *(45) that he knew of. I 
preached in Birmingham Birslem at night to a crouded Congregation & [a] Methedist preacher by 
the name of John Jones arose when I closed & read a pamphelet containing an Extract of 
monnonism unveiled & Warren Parrish letters Signed Luke Johnston & John F. Boyanton. I 
answered him when he got through & he rejected our testimony as he had done a number [of 
times] before. I had a interview with priest Samuel Heath. He spent the night with me at Elder 
Cordons. 

29th I took the parting hand with Elder Turley who started for Binningham. May the Lord Bless 
him I pray. I preached at Brother Woods in New Castle & spent the night at his house. Distance 
of the day 3 miles. /I blessed 3 children./ 

30th I visited each appartment of the Silk factory in New Castle & saw them manerfactor silk 
from the raw article to the weavers loom. 

I walked to Mr [ ] Rowleys [ ] accompanied by Brother James Martin. From thence I 

walked to Burslem. The Sun shone beautiful & plesant & the fields all looked green as Summer. 


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I preached in Hanley & one man that the truth had hert his feelings came to me full of all subtlety 
& mischief & tried to ketch me in my words by asking many questions &c. But he went away not 
accomplishing his designs. I spent the night with Brother Benbow. Distance 3 miles. 

} } I wrote two long letters one to Phebe & the other to My Father in Connecticut. 

3 1st I walked to Burslem & mailed the above letters. I walked to Stoke & Preached at Br Wm. 
Hulme at Stoke cannery Street to a large Congregation who gave good attention. Their was 
several preachers present but they went away silent. I spent the night with Br Benbow. 6 miles. 

February 

Feb 1st I walked to Burslem & spent the Day & to Hanly. Spent the night. 4 mil. 

Feb 2st Sunday I Preached in Hanly. Was opposed by a Methodist Priest but he went of 
confounded. 

I met with the Saints in Burslem & administered the sacrament unto them & blessed 6 children. I 
preached in the evening in Hanly to a large congregation who gave good attention. The power of 
God rested upon me & I bore testimony unto them. The fals spirits were bound. It was the last 
meeting we were to hold in that place. After meeting we baptized one <Henry [Chelter?]>. I 
spent the night at [ Hanly Elder?] Cordons. 2 m. 

3d I walked to Hanly, to Stoke, & dined With Brother Hulme Canning Street 5th door. Then 
walked to lane end near Vauxall & preached at Brother Thomas Amison, & walked back to 
Hanly & spent the night with Brother Benbow Market place. Distance of the day 13 miles. 

I had a view of John Brown's Journal 1833-1898, Vol.l, & it was a singular thing. 2d dream, 
wake, rise, dress, work, pray, eat, walk cloudy, rain, wind, dogs, birds, Drayman, potteries, 
Ladies, Coat, S[m..?]t Ducks, pigs, c[a?]ps, white pantloons, funeral, Ladies carrying corps, 
Gentleman walking before, groceries, Twelve colliers fall 756 feet into way pit killed dead, dogs, 
Bacon, Bread, police men, preach, O. Hide Timely warnings cat, walk, gas lights, Thorn Headge, 
Scotch Soldiers, s[hirts?] feathers, bear legs, war with china, cat, pray, undress, by dawn, Sleep, 
Dream, 265, Market place, Hanly. 

Feb 4d Wake, dress, pray, eate, talk, walk to Burslem rain & wind. :]■ I wrote two letters one to 
Elder W Richards & the other to Elders J. Taylor & J Fielding. I recieved a letter from Elder 
Wm. Clayton. I preached at night at Dea[con] Bradburies & had the spirit of God. A great 
opposser was convinced of the Truth & said he would soon be baptized. I spent the night at Elder 
[Co?]rdons. 2 miles. 

5th Walked to Hanly & on to Newcastle. Read two papers. Found much talk about the Queen 
Victoria wedding. It had taken more than 200 persons 9 months to make her Bridal Dress, & all 
the weavers 6 weeks to make her veil. I preached at night at Brother Woods No. 14 Drayton 


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Street & walked to Bursleto & spent the night. <Distance of the day> 8 miles. 

Feb 6th I received a letter from Elder Turley. } I wrote a Letter to Elder Turley in answer to his & 
walked to Tunstell & returned to Hanly. Preached upon the Book of Mormon to 4 or 500 persons 
some of which were full of wrath & when I closed those that were angry because of the word of 
God arose upon a Bench & began to reject my testimony & rave like madmen but I stood & gave 
answered to their questions untill they were confounded. I then left the house while it was all in 
an uproar. I spent the night at Brother Benbows. <Distance of the day> 4 mi. 

7th Friday Walked to Stoke & Dined with Brother James Grocott in Cross St. end of Thomas St. 
After Dining Brother Grocott accompanied me all through Copelands Pot works, & it was truly a 
great curiosity to see all kinds of earthren, crockery, & the best of china ware made commencing 
at the Stone, clay & bones in their first state & go through every process untill it is finished. 

Firstly enter gate, visit engine that carries all the works. From thence to /pounding/ grinding 
stone & bones, gringing, mixing, sifting, drying, turning or moulding it into every kind of ware, 
fireing, printing, stamping, Gilding with gold, glazing, fireing, pollishing, storeing, selling & 
aggrandizing themselves with the profits thereof. 

Cost of one set of China for Dining & tea for about 20 or 30 persons £1,100 or $5,500. This at 
Copelands & Garrets factory whare as good china is made as any in the world. It is much 
superior to that made in China. Brother John Rowley made me a presant of a china Box as a 
token of Friendship with the following inscription upon it in gold: 

Willford & Pheabe Woodruff 
A Present from 
Stoke upon Trent England 
1840 

Also with three small Bottles with Phebe Sarah Emma, & Eunice, name on them. 

Also three China Pitchers Containing the following names: 

Willford Woodruff 
Phebe W. Woodruff 
Sarah Emma Woodruff 

I took supper with Br Grocott & preached in the evening at Brother Humes 5th Door Canning St 
S. Spent the night at Brother John Rowleys. Distance 3 m. 

8th I spent the Day with Brother Hume. I washed my feet & bore testimony unto Jesus Christ 
against /Priest/ William Shaw & /Priest/ William Pool for rejecting my testimony. I held a prayer 
meeting with the Saints. Had a good time. 


Page267 




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I [] [] received two letters one from Elder Richards & the other from Elder Wm. Clayton. } I wrote 
a letter to Elder W. Richards, & spent the night at Brother Rowley. 

9th Sunday I was unwell. Preached at Brother Hulme & walked to Lane End & preached at 
Brother Thomas Ameson’s near Vauxall, & Rose & Crown. I also preached in the Evening. I 
spent the night With Br. Isaac Whittaker furnace road Longton (or Lane end) south side of the 
church. I Blessed 3 children & Confirmed one person. <Distance> 3 m. 

Feb 10th Queen Victoria is married to day. Prince Albert is her Bridegroom. The Queen salary 
that is [setteldey?] upon her annually is £385,000 or $1,925,000. That of Prince Albert is £50,000 
or $250,000 making in all yearly to the Queen & Prince £435,000 or $2,175,000. The above is 
the same that the late King & Queen had befor them. 

As this is a day that many are celebrating the manage of the Queen I thought it no more than just 
& right that I should honor the King of heaven by advocating his cause & preaching the gospel of 
his Son Jesus Christ. So I walked out into the Market place accompanied by Elder Alfred 
Corden, & Deacon Wm. Bradbury, & Brother George Simpsons, & we began to Sing praises 
unto God & call upon his name & a congregation flocked around us, & we preached the gospel 
unto them & I bore testimony unto them of the great work that God had set his hand to 
accomplish. We testified of the Second comeing of Christ & warned the people to repent & be 
Baptized for the remission of their Sins, & when we had finished our testimony we dismissed the 
people & walked of with many following us. We also preached in the evening at Brother Thomas 
Amisons & Baptized one & walked to Burslen & spent the night. 


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I received a letter from Elder John Taylor. They had Baptized 10 in Liverpool. Distance of the 
day 8 miles. 

1 1th I spent the day in Bursleto. } I wrote two Letters one to Elder Turley & the other to Elder 
Wm. Clayton. I preached at night in Burslen at Dea[con] Bradburrey's & after preaching one 
came to be Baptized a female. We called upon her Sister as we passed along & she Said she 
would obey the gospel also. We then called upon another woman who was believing, but she 
made objections to being Baptized then because she had a dead child in the house. I told her to 
let the dead bury the Dead but rise & follow Christ & she did & we walked two miles & I 
baptized the three 3 females. Their husbands were in the church & were present at the time I 
baptized these females. We rep [air? Jed at a house & I confinned them & I had the spirit of God 
& a good time. 

I spent the night at Elder Cordons. <Distance of the day> 5 m. 

12th I preached at Newcastle. I wrote } a letter to Elder P P. Pratt. <Distance of the day> 6 m. 

13^-1 wrote two Letters one to Elder Sin. James, New Jersey & one to Elder John Taylor & 
walked to Hanly & preached to a large congregation. Two visiting brethren were presant viz 
Priest John Wych & Priest Samuel Heath. I returned to Burslen & spent the night. 3 miles. 

14th I had an interview with Brothers Heath & Wych. I walked to Stoke & preached to Brother 
Humes & returned to Hanly & spent the night at Brother Benbows. 5 m. 

15 Walked to Burslen & spent the day in writing. 

16th Sunday I preached in Hanly in the morning, broke bread to the Saints in the afternoon & 
preached to a large congregation in the evening. The people gave good attention. I confirmed 
one, Blessed 3 children, & healed one that was Sick. Spent the night at Brother Benbows. Gave 
him a history of the rise of the church. 

17th Walked to Stoke. From thence to Stone in Company with Brother William Hume & 

William Mornford. We called upon Joseph Harding shoe maker & then upon Widow Welch in 
Mill Lane. From thence to Widow Gilberts Church Street. Our object was to get a Door open to 
preach the gospel & Widow Gilbert told us we might preach in her house as much as we pleased. 
So we gave out an appointment at 7 oclok & I preached the gospel to a small congregation & 
distributed 9 Timely warnings which is the first preaching of the LD.S in the town. 

Their was a London Merchant present that had been rich & honorable but through the hard times 
was reduced to begger[ly?J & had but 12 1/2 penny to carry him 100 miles. Great Distress is 
begining to Come upon the Land. We spent the night at the house of Widow Gilberts. Distance 
of the day 10 m. 

Lord Mejbourn, & Marquiss of Landsdown, is about to resign their Seat in Parliment because 


Page269 




they cannot make out the money they wish & Lord John Russel will take their place & try to 
make out the money. 

Feb 18th We left Stone & walked to Stoke but on the road we spent Several hours in visiting the 
Noted Park of George Granvill the Present DUKE of Southerland Trentam Staffordshire. This 
park is about 5 miles in length & 5 in bredth. The first thing of note that strike the attention while 
cuming on the rode from Stone to Stoke is several hundred acres of ground planted over with 
young sprouts in order to make timber which ground is hilly. 

Next appears Spring Vale. The lower fountain is a forced vein which spirts or throws a stream of 
water about 12 feet above the surface of the water. Their is a fish pool above the first fountain, 
but rather small. 

Their is a splendid stone house on the hill above for the purpose of keeping persons that are 
Insane. There are a number of small monuments around this vale. 

The next is the manner house built of Stone but mostly in ruins. It is more than five hundred 
years old, & one family have lived in it more than 200 years ie. desending from father to Son. 

We next visited the splended Monument erected in memory of George Granvill the late Duke 
father of the present Duke of Southerland. It stands erect upon a hill built of hewn stone. The 
foundation is square 160 feet round it. Each laying of stone is drawn into a narrow Compass 
about 3 feet each laying untill about 12 feet high. Then the monument is round for about 60 feet. 
Then the Image of the Duke stands on the top being about 10 feet in hight with a roll of paper in 
his left hand (he was a memder of parliment) facing his splended mansion house in the vale north 
of the monument. The whole monument about 80 feet in hight. *(46) 

A person at this monument has a fine view of the mansion house which is an expensive & 
splended building. It covers about 4 acres built of hewn stone, having much carved work of Lions 
& other Images. Their were 365 windows in it before the repairs or additions which the present 
Duke is making which it is supposed will take 7 years to accomplish. 

Their are some hundreds of acres of wood land & fann paches all of which are enclosed with a 
fence of 4 & 5 feet high the whole of the fence composed of Solid Iron. Their are miles of Iron 
railing in this park. 

The Duke has vast quantities of game, fish & fowl in his Park, such as Deer, Hares, Rabits, 
Pheasants, Ducks, Geese Swan, Trout & many other kinds of fish. The Deer are as tame as 
Sheep. We saw about 300 in one drove. There are game keepers to see that no person trespasses 
upon the park. The river Trent runs through the park. The Duke has converted the whole of it for 
a distance into a fish pool. 

I visited the burying ground which was coverd with many kinds of evergreen. The publick road 
running through the park is between two stone walls about 10 feet thick, 4 to 6 high coverd with 
turf & green grass. 


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This DUKE of Southerland has two other Parks of as much value as the one above named. As to 
his wealth he nor no man knoweth. But as JESUS Said concerning the Stones of the Temple, it 
will in like manner be with the monuments & pride of this generation. They will spedily be lade 
low in the Dust together. 

I walked from Stoke to Hanly then to Burslen. Attended meeting at Deacon Bradburies. Elder 
Cordon preached. I spent the night at Elder Cordons. Elder Cordon Baptized one at Lane End 
Monday night 17th. [] I recieved a Letter of Wm. Clayton. 

Feb 19th I spent the day at Alfred Cordons & in the evening I walked to New Castle & preached. 
There was two Methodist Preachers present & they were filled with anger because of the truth of 
God. One by name of Robert Brown rejected my testimony & said I should go to the Bottomless 
pit & all that followed me. It was manifest what spirit was in the man. After meeting I *(47) 
Baptized one & walked to Hanly & to Burslem & spent the night at Elder Cordons. I dreamed 
that I saw men & children killed to be eat because of the soreness of a famine. 7 mi. 

20 I washed my feet & bore testimony against Robert Brown for rejecting my testimony & being 
angry because of the truth of God. I walked to Hanly & preached to an attentive congregation. I 
spent the night with Brother Benbow. 2 m. 

2 1st I walked to Burslen & spent the day in writing & walked to Stoke & preached to Brother 
Humes. A man Cut his throat in Burslem & died. He had been a Methodist class leader 20 years. 
I spent the night at Brother Rowley. 6 m. 

22d I spent the day in Stoke. In the evening I saw J Potts new Store Illuminated. 

23d Sunday I preached in Stoke in the morning & confirmed one. I communed with the Saints at 
Brother [ ] Whittaker in Lane end. I also preached in the evening. Distance of the day 3 m. 

24d I walked to Stone with Brother Samuel Hancock & several other Brethren & preached at 
Widow Gilberts & [then?] returned to Hanly & spent the night at Brother Benbows. Distance 20. 

25th :]■ I wrote two letters one to Elder Turley & the other to Elder Clayton & walked to Burslen 
& preached at Dea[con] Bradburys & spent the night at Elder Cordons. 2 miles. 

26th } I received a Letter from Elder Turley & wrote a letter to him in answer to it & walked to 
New Castle & preached at Brother Woods & returned & spent the night in Burslem. A Scottish 
Soldier & his lady attending meeting recieved the word with gladness & were believeing. 
Distance 5 mile. 

27th ^ :]■ ^ :]■ I wrote a long letter to Elders E. Robinson & D. C Smith in Commerce 111. U.S.A. & 
also a letter to Elder Taylor at Liverpool. I walked to Hanly & preached. I spent the night at Br 
Benbows. /I ordained Br William Vernon to a office of a priest./ 

28th ;}■ I wrote a letter to Elder M. Holmes. Elder Turley returned from Binningham & met me in 


Page271 




Hanly. He brought me a letter [] from Dwight Webster. Brother Turley had one from his wife but 
among all the letters I do not hear a word from Phede or Sarah. I walked to Stone & Elder Turley 
preached. We returned to Brother Benbows & spent the night. /Alfred Baptized one./ 4 mi. 

29th And last day of winter. I spent the day in Hanly. } I wrote two Letters one to Father Carter & 
the other to John Taylor all of which I sent to Elder Taylor. 

March 

March 1st 1840 This is my birth day. I am 33 years of age to day. I preached in Hanly & broke 
bread. I preached in the evening to a large congregation & the spirit & power of God rested upon 
me. 4 offered themselves for Baptism. Two soldiers received my testimony & I think will be 
baptized. I visited Widow Lucy Martin No 6 Brunswick st. I spent the night in Hanly. 

2nd Walked to Bursleto & preached & returned to Hanly to Stoke & to Stone & preached & 
spent the night in Stone. /The Lord warned me to go to the South./ Distance of the day 16 m. 

3rd I walked to Stafford & called at the [Kings?] Inn. I had an interview with Mr Coleboum the 
Rector of the Church of England. I then Called upon the clerk of the peace about a licens but he 
could not give me information upon the subject. I then had an interview with Mr Alexander 
Stewart a preacher but he rejected my testimony, brought a railing accusation against me & 
turned me from his door. I took the Omnibus in company with br. Wm. Benbow & rode to 
Wolverhampton & spent the night. Distance 26 miles. 

4th We took Coach. Rode through Dudley 6 m Stourbridge 5, Kiddeminister 7 m Stourport 4, 
Worcester 12, then walked to Mr John Benbows, Hill farm Castle Froome, Ledbury, 
Herefordshire. Mr Ben bow was a large farmer. Cultivated about 300 acres of land. I spoke the 
word of God unto him & his house & he received my testimony & we had a good time. I spent 
the night at his house. <Distance> 48 m. 

5th I spent the day at Mr Benbows & preached at his house & had the testimony that there was 
many present that would be Saints. 

March 6th I preached at John Benbows Hill fann in the evening & a number received the word & 
I Baptized 6. Mr John Benbow & wife the [heads?] of the family of the Hill farm were among the 
number. 4 out of the 6 were preachers of the United Brethren of the Methodist order. I here found 
it necessary to become all things to all men in many respects. One <man came to me in the water 
naked almost to be baptized>. Spent the night with Brother Benbow. 

7th I spent the day in preparing a pool to Baptize in. I washed my feet & bore testimony against 
Alexander Stewart before God for rejecting my testimony. 

8th Sunday I preached at Frooms Hill in the morning, at Standly Hill in afternoon & at the Hill 
farm in the evening. I had a large congregation. The Lord of Hosts was with me. I Baptized 7 
persons. 4 were Methodist preachers of the United Brethren. I confirmed 13 & broke bread unto 


Page272 




the Saints. I praise God for his goodness in opening my way. Satan Desires to sift some as wheat. 
2 miles. 

9th I preached at Standly Hill & Baptized 7 persons 2 of which were preachers. 

10th I preached at Brother Benbows o[n/r?] Hill farm & Baptized 12 persons 3 of which were 
preachers . 

1 1th ^ I wrote 4 Letters one to W Richards, one to J Taylor, one to W Clayton, one to Cordon. 
Brother Wm. Benbow parted with Brother John Benbow & started for home in Hanly. <He left 
with a bowed head. It was a dark day to us both. The waves of sorrow rolled on our souls. The 
devil was as a roaring lion seeking to devour us but God will deliver us. I went to my meeting 
very [shortly?]. > I preached in the evening at the House of Thomas Jinkins at Moorends Cross. I 
spent the night at Mr Jinkins. Distance of the day 5 miles. 

12th I preached at night at Mr James Hadley at Ridgway Cross. I supd at Mr Francis Holmes & I 
had a large congregation & the power of God restd upon me. I bore testimony unto the people & 
walked to Brother John Benbows & spent the night. Distance of the day 6 miles. 

13th I visited the Sick & walked to Stokes Lane & preached & Baptized 3 persons & spent the 
night at Brother Benbow. 12 mile. /Francis Birch, Richard Hall, & Ann Birch were the 3 above 
named persons Baptized./ 

14th I spent the day at John Parry & the night at Brother Benbows. <Some of the Saints are still 
tried. > 

15th Sunday I preached at Froores Hill. I met with the Saints in the afternoon & Confirmed 22 
persons & ordaind John Cheese to the office of a priest. I preached in the evening to a 
Congregation of about 800 but some of the baser Sort made much Disturbance. There was a 
number of persons that wished to be Baptized but returned home without it in consequence of the 
people. This was a labourious day to me. 2 miles. 

16th I walked to Ma[..]ston & called upon Squir Johnston a Magestrat & obtained a licens for 
preaching in any part of the English Government. On my return I visited a number of persons & 
found them believing. I preached at Froores Hill & Baptized 3 persons one of which was a 
preacher. I spent the night at Brother Benbows. 12 m. 

17th I had an agreeable interview with Mr Thomas Kington the Superintendant of the United 
Brethren. I lade the whole work of the fulness of the Gospel before him & he seemed to received 
the testimony. I walked to Green Yeal & preached at the house of Philpotts to a large 
congregation. I was exceding hoarse at the lungs. I spent the night at the Hill farm. 10 m. 

18th I walked in company with a pilot to Woferwood common & preached at the house of 
George Allen & returned & spent the night at the Hill fann. Distance of the day 14 miles. 


Page273 




19th I visited Sister Ann Bourn who was sick & prayed with her. I then walked to John Fidoes at 
Bishop frume. From thence to Hopton's Comor & preached at the house of Richard Davis. I 
spent the night at Mr James Gurney. 9 miles. 

I dreamed at night that Brother Thompson was dead & left a wife & two children. I caught a large 
fish & [dressed?] it. 

20th March <Oh Lord comfort Phebe thy handmaid this day in her distress.> I Baptized 3 persons 
one a preachers, & preached at Bridger at Smith & some of the baser sort armed themselves with 
rotten Eggs & flung them at me. One hit me in the head but did not break untill it struck the 
ground. I walked to the Hill farm & spent the night. Distance of the day 9 miles. 

March 2 1 st <Oh Lord bless Phebe this day in need in every time of need I pray.> I walked to 
Ledbury & found [] a letter from W. Richards. I returned to Brother Benbows & baptized 4 
persons. 2 were preachers one of which was Thomas Kington the Superintendant of the Preachers 
of the United Brethren. Glory Hallaluyah the work of God rolls on. Distance of the day 12 miles. 

22nd Sunday I preached at Frums Hill. In the afternoon I preached at the Hill fann to a large 
congregation. /Willford Woodruff Jr. was born 5 oclock Sunday March 22 1840./ I also met the 
Saints in the evening & confirmed 6 persons, & according to the Revelation of the Holy Ghost & 
the voice of the Church I Ordained Thomas Kington to the Office of an Elder & William Jinkins 
to the Office of a Priest. I also broke bread unto the Saints. The power of God & the Revelation 
of Jesus Christ rested upon me & I had a good time. I spent the night at the Hill farm. 2 miles. 

23d [] [] I Recieved my trunk that was Sent me from Hanley. In it I recieved three letters one from 
John Tailor, one from Willard Richards one from Alfred Cordon. Elder Taylor informed me of 
his Baptizing 17 persons in Liverpool. Elder Richards wished me to enquire of the Lord his will 
concerning Brother & sister Richards for they ware in deep affliction. 

Elder Cordon informed me that Elder Theadore Turley was taken with a warrent & cast into Goal 
by the instrumentality of John Jones. A man took him from Binningham because of a certain 
debt which was contracted 15 years ago before he left England which he supposed was wholly 
settled but it is the work of the devil to put him in prision to stop his preaching. But God will yet 
turn this work for good & if it is stoped in one place it will burst out in another place. May God 
open the prision Door & soon let Elder Turley free. 

I preached at Standly Hill & Baptized 12 persons one of which was a preacher. The Lord is 
Doing a great work here. Their will have to be some triming Done by & by. Spent the night at the 
Hill fann. <Distance of the day> 4 miles. 

24th A preacher Called upon me & after I conversed with him a while he requested Baptism at 
my hands. I changed my clotheing & as I got ready to go the pool, three other preachers rode up 
in a gig or charriot to see me. The fame had gone out into all the county of the spedy work that 
God was performing. They had not herd me preach or any Latter Day Saint but had come more 


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than 20 miles to see me. They came down out of the Gig & walked to whare I was. 
Notwithstanding they were Ministers yet I stood up & boldly declaired unto them Jesus & 
testified unto them of the great work of God in these last Days, & the power of God rested upon 
us, & they bowed down & prayed & gave glory to God, & we all rose up & the Gig stood still & 
we all went down into the water at the Same hour & I Baptized them & lade my hands upon them 
that they might receive the Holy Ghost & they went their way rejoiceing. 

I then walked to Moorends cross & spent the night & preached at Brother William Parsons & 
Baptized 5 persons more making 9 persons Baptized. 

During the day I wrote a letter to Alfred Cordon. I Also confirmed 8 persons. <Distance of the 
day> 6 mil. 

25th } I wrote 2 Letters one to Elder Richards & sent him a few words <of the Lord concerning 
him> & one to Wm. Clayton. I walked to Woferwood common & preached to Aliens & returned 
to the Hill farm & spent the night. 12 mil. } I also wrote a letter to Elder John Taylor. [] I received 
a Letter from Elder Clayton. 

26th I walked to Stokes Lane & preached at the House of Joseph Evins & spent the night at br. 
William Davis, & had the following Dream: I saw by night a River in which were many fish. I 
cast an hook & caught some of them & while fishing I saw some large ones near shore. I put the 
hook to their mouth. They bit it & I caught them, & one vary notable one exceding all other fish 
that I had caught. 

And as I was taking care of them, I saw a still larger River. It appear like Fannington River in the 
U.S.A. at the Mill which my Father is tending, & on the other side of the River was a Boat to 
which was tied many fish lines. On one hook was a fish so large that the captain of the Boat 
Israel Dormon by name could not bring him into the Boat, & he sailed the Boat across the River 
whare I was, & the fish was taken out & a Bellman was called for to divide the fish & after the 
Bell was rung each man took a part, & while dividing the fish, one man said to another man I saw 
Baptizing last night. Was not you Baptized? I also saw a trunk representing to have Elder Turleys 
trunk & it ought to be taken care of for he is cast into prison.) 

What this Dream means time will soon Detennin. Their is to be much Baptizing done soon 
somewhare. Some of our Brethren will soon come from the U.S.A. & be divided among the 
people & I shall soon Baptize many & some noted persons. Distance of the Day 5 miles. 

27th I walked to the House of Mark Davis & Baptized two persons one a preacher. I then walked 
to Shuknell Hill a vary noted & sightly place. The plains looked Beautiful in the valleys around 
it, & notwithstanding it is a country place yet I could count 2 1 churches from the top of the Hill. 

I preached in the evening to a large congregation, & although it was the first time that they had 
herd the fullness of the gospel, yet if their had been water convenient their would have been 20 
Baptized. But as it was a great distance to the water most concluded to omit it untill another day. 


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Some however would not take no for an answer, & they followed me untill 2 oclock at night in 
search of water & we finally found a stream & Baptized 5 persons in a place whare we had to let 
them down 8 feet perpendicular by the Bank before we reached the water, & 3 of this number 
were Preachers, & one an aged woman who had followed us the whole time leaning upon her 
Staves. 

I spent the night at the preaching place. I Baptized 7 during the day 4 of which were preachers. 
Two females had a fit in the evening. I lade hands upon them & they soon recovered. <Distance 
of the day> 8 m. 

28th I confirmed one & walked to the Hill farm & Baptized 2 persons. One was a Primitive 
Methodist Preacher which I confirmed. I spent the night at the Hill fann & Dreamd of being with 
several others in a small Boat in a storm on the River. We had to paddle ashore with our hands 
having no paddles. There was a serpent oralled into the Boat & I flung him out with my hands & 
reached the shore in safety. Distance of the day 8 miles. 

29th Sunday I have much to do to day. I preached at Froomes Hill, at 1/2 10 oclock at the Hill 
farm 2 [1/27] oclock & Baptized 13 persons 2 of which were Preachers. I met with the Saints in 
the evening at 6 oclock at the Hill farm & Confirmed 35 Persons & broke bread unto about 80 
Saints which closed the business of the day. 

0 how much strength & wisdom I need in the midst of so much labour. But surely the Lord does 
give me grace according to my Day for which I feel vary thankful. 

1 am infonned this day that the Ministers of the Church of England are holding meetings & 
councils to petition Parliment to Stop my preaching & to cause our religion to scease out of the 
land. But may the Lord order all things aright I pray. 

30th I Baptized 9 persons 5 of which were preachers. I also confirmed 9 there. It was rather a 
dark Day with Brother Benbow. Some trouble with his Landlord & one of his men was in 
trouble. 

I walked to Ledbury & had not been in town an hour before many flocked around to see me & 
gave me the hand of fellowship. The Baptist Minister opened his chapel for me to preach in & he 
went into the Pulpit with me & opened the meeting by reading the 35th oh. of Isaiah & praying 
mightily for me. I then arose & preached to the largest congregation (it was said) that ever met in 
the chapel. The Minister was believing & bid me God speed. After Meeting many offered 
themselves for Baptism. 

I spent the night at Francis Pullen. [] [] I received three Letters one from Richards, one from 
Cordon, & one from Mulliner. Distance of the day 6 miles. 

3 1st I walked to the green way & Baptized 13 persons 4 of which were preachers. I then walked 
to Elder Thomas Kington, & preached at his house in Dimmock. ^ I wrote 4 Letters one to 


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Richards, one to Turley, one to Wm. Benbow & one to Clayton. I spent the night at Elder 
Kington. Distance of the day 5 miles. 


April 

April 1st I walked to Norton & preached at Mr George Curtis. I walked to Leigh & spent the 
night with Brother Wm. Jenkins. Distance of the day 15 mils. 

2d I Baptized 3 in Apperly & 6 in Leigh. 2 were preachers. I walked to Twigworth & preached at 
John Hill & returned to Leigh & spent the night with Browett. Distance of the day 6 mil. 

April 3d ^ I wrote two Letters one to Richards & one to Mulliner & walked to Gadfields Elm & 
preached in the Chapel to a large congregation & spent the night at Mr Hills at Turkey Hall. 8. 

4th I Baptized 1 1 women at Gadfields Elm & in the number was three generations a Daughter, 
Mother & Grandmother. One [..] 8 years of age. I then walked to Leigh & spent the night at 
Brother William Jenkins. <Distance of the day> 7 m. 

5th Sunday I met for a prayer Meeting in Leigh. After meeting we went to Brother Daniel 
Browetts for the purpose of Baptizing 10 persons. Got ready. But Before we got ready or closed 
praying & Singing a desperate mob gatherd together about 100 in number & the owner of the 
pool would not let us Baptize while their was such a mob present fearing that serious 
Consequence would ensue. 

I then went in search of water in other places for about an hour with the mob following me & 
calling out you American whare are you going to wash your sheep? But as I could not find water 
we had to omit it untill afternoon. The mob commenced fighting among themselves & the people 
sent for constables to Clear the [ground?]. 

I went to Norton & preached & then returned to Leigh immediately & the man gave his consent 
for me to Baptize in his pool. We went Immediately to the water & as I comenced to Baptize the 
mob began to gather but I Baptized 9 persons 3 [of] which were preachers while surrounded by 
the Rabble. But I perfonned the ordinance without any insult or injury excepting the tongue of 
slander & throwing a dog into the pool whare I was Baptizing. 

I also preached in the evening at Leigh to a vast congregation & the power of God rested upon us, 
& I bore testimony unto them of the Judgments of God that would rest upon them if they did not 
repent. I spent the night at Brother Daniel Rowletts & confirmed two persons. 3 miles. 

6th I walked to Eldersfield & preached at Turkey Hall at Benjamin Hill's & Baptized 5 persons 
one a Preacher & one a Clerk of the Church of England. Elder Kington is with me. I received 
three Letters [][][] one from Taylor in Liverpool. He infonned me of [how] the work is with him. 
One from Richards one from Turley. Spent the night with Mr Hill. Distance 7 m. 

7th I <prayed and wept before the [heavens?] for Elders Taylor and [-]>. I walked to Apperly & 


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preached to a large congregation. Many were believing. I then walked to Leigh & spent the night 
at Brother Browets. We spread the case of Elder Turley before the Lord & plead before God for 
his deliverance out of Prision in [-] . The Lord testified unto us that he would spedily do it & I say 
in the name of Jesus Christ it shall be done & his enemy shall fall & the weapons formed against 
him shall be broaken. Distance of the day 7 mi. 

8th I wrote a Letter to Elder Turley in Stafford goal & sent him half a sovreign 10/ <and the word 
oftheLord>. [ ]. 

I Baptized 7, 4 of which were preachers. I preached at Leigh to a Large congregation. 

9th [] [] I recieved two letters one from Elder Richards, one from Elder Taylor informing me of 
the arival of five of the Twelve [one Seventy?] & they had appointed a conference in preston on 
Wednesday the 15th of April & wished me to attend. 

I preached at Wm. Simons at H[ans?] Cross to a vast mass of human beings & not a quarter of 
the people could not get in to the House, & their was many of the baser sort present, & the house 
was much disturbed by the crouding of the people. The people did not break up for several hours. 

Many wished to be Baptized but could not because of the croud & mob. But some wishing to be 
baptized notwithstanding the persecution I repared to the pool about 12 oclock at night which 
was surrounded by a desperate Mob of the gentiles. 1 went down into the water & Baptized 5 
persons in the midst of a shower of stones flung at me by the mob, & while they were pelting my 
Body with stones one of which hit me in the top of my head which nearly knocked me down into 
the water with the man that I was Baptizing but the Lord saved me from falling & I continued 
untill I had closed my Baptizing & my mind was stayed on God. 

1 then walked to Dimock & spent the night at Brother Kington. Distance 9 mi. 

10th I walked to green way & Baptized 3 persons & then walked to Ledbury. From thence to 
Frooms Hill visiting the Saints by the way side. 1 found Broth John Benbow had sold his 
possessions & entirely left the Hill fann & taken up his abode for a season at Frooms Hill. I 
called upon him & spent several hours. He gave me £2 to bear my expenses to & from the 
Conference. 1 then walked to Standly Hill & spent the night. 14 m. 

1 1th I arose at 1 oclock & rode in a horse Cart to Worcester. 16. 1 then took Coach & rode to 
Wolverhampton. 35. 1 then took rail road to Stafford. 1 8. 

1 started to go to the gall to visit Brother Turley & I saw a large Congregation of people of about 
10,000 gatherd together at the gall & on Enquiring the cause 1 was informed two men was to be 
hung. I came as near as I could of the gall. I soon saw the gallows erected & in a few moments 
James Owen & George Thomas was taken on to the scaffold & a rope put round their necks & in 
an instant they were droped into Eternity for murder precicely at 1 oclock & the rope cut & their 
bodies droped at 2 oclock. The gallows [were] removed at 3 oclock. 


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I then went into the gail & had an interview with Elder Turley who was unlawfully put into 
prision. I spent an hour with him. I carried him some provision & read the Letters to him which I 
had written to him. I left him in good health & spirits & walked to Stone. From thence to Stoke 
upon trent. 15. Stoped & spent the night with Brother Hulme. I was weary in body. Have been 
travling 20 hours. The whole distance 84 miles. 

12th Sunday I preached to the Saints in Stoke in the afternoon in Hanley, & in the evening to a 
large congregation. I spent the night in Bursleto with Elder Clark. He had the fever & ague. I lade 
hands upon him & he was better. I confirmed one. 4 miles. 

13 th I recieved & read the singular & striking prophecies of Robert Dixon the celebrated 
Cheshire prophet in the reign of Henry VII from Lady Cowpers correct copy also an account of 
his life & death Published by John Fregorth 1829. 

I took the coach in company with Elder Clark & rode to Manchester. 35. Spent about an hour 
with the Saints. Then Elder Clayton joined us & we took the cars & rode to preston 30, whare I 
had a happy interview with some of the Twelve. I spent the night in preston. 65 miles. 


The first Council of the Twelve among the Nations 

At a council of the Twelve held in Preston Lancashire England on the fourteenth of April 
eighteen hundred and forty, Elders Brigham Young, Heber C. Kimble, Parley P. Pratt, Orson 
Pratt, Willford Woodruff, John Taylor & George A. Smith being present. 

Elder Brigham Young was called to the Chair & Elder John Taylor Chosen as Secretary. It being 
the ninth day of the first month of the eleventh year of the Church. The Council was opened by 
prayer by Elder Brigham Young. Elder Willard Richards was ordained to the Office of an 
Apostle & recieved into the Quorum of the Twelve by a unanimous voice according to previous 
revelation. Elder Brigham Young was unanimously chosen as the standing president of the 
Twelve. 

Resolved that he who acts as the Secretary of the Quorum shall prepare the minutes of the 
Conferences of the quorum & deposite them in the hands of the President for keeping. 

Moved by Elder Kimble & seconded by Elder Richards that 20 of the Seventies be sent for & that 
it be left discretionary with the president of the Twelve to send for more if he think proper. 
Meeting closed by prayer by Elder Kimble. 


[15th] At a general conference of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints held in the 
Temperance Hall Preston, Lancashire England; on the fifteenth Day of April Eighteen hundred & 
forty. Elder Kimble was called to preside & Elder William Clayton Chosen as Clerk. It being the 


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tenth day of the first month of the Eleventh year of the Church. The meeting was opened by 
Singing & prayer by Elder Kimble. Elder Kimble then called upon the Elders to represent the 
different branches of the Church When Er. Joseph Fielding represented the church in Preston 
consisting of about 300 members 7 Elders 8 Priest 6 Teachers & 2 Deacons. 

E[lde]r. Peter Melling represented the Church in Penwortham consisting of 73 Members 3 E. 1 P. 
2 T. & 1 D. 

Er. Wm. Gamer represented the church at Longton consisting of 5 1 members 2 E 4 P. & 2 
Teachers. 

Teacher Joseph Jackson repd. the Church at Southport 20 Members 1 P. 1 T. 

Elder John Moon reps, the Church Dunbers Lane & Neighbourhood 54 M 1 E 2 P 3 T. 

Richard Benson rep. the church at Hunters Hill 17 M. 1 E. 1 P. 1 T. 

Er. Amos Fielding rep. the Church at Haskins 3 M. 1 E. Also the Church at Bolton 60 M. 1 E. 2 
P. 2 T. Also the Church at Radclift 10 M. 

Elder Withenal rep. the Church at Whittle 18 M 1 E. 4 P. 

Er. Francis Clark rep. the church at Ribchester 25 M. 2 E. 1 T. 

Elder Thomas Richardson rep. the Church at Bumly 24 M. 1 P 1 T. 

Elder Francis Moon rep. the Church at Blackburn 15 M. IP. 

Eldr James Smith rep. the Church in Chaighley Keighley & Thomly 29 M 2 E. 1 P. 1 T. 1 D. 

Pt. John Ellison rep. the church at Waddington 50 M. 2 P. 2 T. 1 D. 

Er. Thomas Smith rep. the Church at Clithero 27 [M.] 1 E. 3 P. Also the Church at Chatburn 84 
M 1 E. 2 P. 2 T. 1 D. Also the Church at Dawnham Dunham 20 M 1 T. 1 D. Also the Church at 
Grindleton 5 M. 

Er. Wm. Clayton rep. the Church at Manchester 240 Members 2 E. 5 P. 4 T 1 D. Also the church 
at Stockport 40 M. 1 P 2 T. 1 D. Also the Church at Duckinfield Duttonfield 30 M. 1 P. Also the 
Church at Altringham 8 M. 1 P. 1 T. Also the church at peowen & Manderfield 30 M 3 P. Also 
the Church at Middlewich 6 M. 

Er. David Wilding rep. the Church at Bury & Elton 12 M. 

Er. Willford Woodruff represented the Church in the potteries 101 M. 1E.2P4T1D. 

Er. W Woodruff represented the Church at Herefordshire consisting of 160 Members 1 E. 2 P. 40 
of these were Methodist preachers of the United Brethren & 42 places of Worshipping licensed 
according to Law. 


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Er. John Taylor represented the church at Liverpool consiting of 28 M. 

Er. Joseph Fielding rep the Church at Alston Cumberland con. of 40 M. 2 E 2 P. 2 T. 

Er. Wd. Richards rep. the church at Brampton consisting of 30 M. 1 E. 1 P. Also the Church at 
Bedford consisting] of 40 M 1 E. 1 P. Also the Church in Scotland consisting of 21 M. 3 E. 

The meeting was then adjourned for 1 hour. 

The Conference then assembled at 1/2 past 1 oclock & business Continued. 

Er. John Moon rep. the Church at Layland Moss consisting of 6 M 1 T. 

Elder W Richards having previously been Ordained into the Quorum of the Twelve according to 
previous Revelation it was Moved by Er. Young & Second by Er. Taylor that Elder Hiram Clark 
be appointed as Councillor to Er. Fielding in the place of Elder Richards. Card. Unan. 

Mooved by Elder Fielding & Seed, by Er. Young that a Hymn Book Shall be published. Carried. 
Mooved & Seed, that the publishing of the Hymn Book shall be done by the Direction of the 
Twelve. Carried. 

Mooved & Seed, that a Monthly periodical shall be published under the Superintendance & 
direction of the Twelve for the benefit and information of the church as soon as a sufficient 
number of Subscribers shall be obtained. Carried. 

Mooved & Second that Brother John Bleagard of Samlesbury be Ordained to the Office of a 
priest. Carried. 

Mooved & Seed, that bro. James Corbridge of Thomly be Ordained to the Office of a priest. 
Carried. 

Elder Kimble then lade before the Conference the importance & propriety of ordaining a 
patriarch to bestow patriarchal Blessings on the fatherless. Referd to the Twelve whose business 
it was to select & ordain him according to the direction of the Spirit. After various remarks being 
given by the Ers. Prest. Fielding & his councillors proceded to Ordain bro's Bleagard [and] 
Corbridge to the Office as Stated above. 

Elder Kimble then Called upon the clerk to read over the minutes which being done they were 
receieved by the Unanimous voice of the Conference. 

Mooved by Er. Young & Seed, by P P Pratt that this Conference be adjourned till the 6th Day of 
July next to be held in preston at 10 oclok A.M. Carried. The Meeting then Adjourned. 

Heber C Kimble President 
Wm. Clayton Clerk 


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The whole Number of the Saints in England & Scotland including official members is 
Saints 1671 

Elders 34 

Priest 52 

Teachers 38 

Deacons 8 

sum total of Official members 132 


The Council of the Twelve met persuant to adjourment April 16th 1840. The members of the 
Quorum the same as on the 14th. 

Mooved by Er. Brigham Young & second, by Elr John Taylor that Elder P P Pratt be Chosen as 
the Editor of the Monthly periodical for the Church. 

Mooved by Er. Kimble, & Sec. by Er. P P Pratt that a committy of three be appointed to Make a 
Selection of Hymns. Mooved by Er. Orson Pratt & Seconded by Er Willford Woodruff that Elder 
Brigham Young Er P P Pratt & Er J. Taylor form the committy for the Selection of the Hymns. 

Mooved by Er. W. Richards Seed, by G. A. Smith that the name of the periodical be the Latter 
Day Saints Milleniam Star. Mooved by Er Brigham Young Seed By Elr Orson Pratt that the size 
of the paper its plan & price be left at the disposal of the Editor. 

Mooved by Elr. Brigham Young Seed, by Elr. H. C. Kimble that the Saints recieve a recommend 
to the Church in America to moove in small or large bodies inasmuch as they desire to emigrate 
to that new Country. 

Mooved by Elder B. Young second, by Elr. P. P. Pratt that we recommend no one to go to 
America that has money without assisting the poor according to our council from time to time. 

Mooved by Er. John Taylor second, by Er P P Pratt that the copy right of the Book of Doctrins & 
Covenants & the Book of Mormon be secured as soon as possible. Mooved by Elr. W Woodruff, 
seconded by Er W. Richards that Elders Brigham Young Heber C. Kimble & Parley P Pratt be 
the Committy to secure the Coppy Right. 

Mooved by Er. H C. Kimble seed, by Er W. Richards that Elder Peter Melling be ordained an 
Evanjelical minister in preston. 

Mooved by Er H C. Kimble seed, by Er. W. Richards that the Twelve meet here on the 6th of 
July 1840 if the Lord will. 

Mooved by Er. W. Richards seed, by Er W. Woodruff that the Editor of the periodical keep an 
account of all the recpts & expenditures connecting with the printing general expenses &c. & that 
the Books at all times be open for the inspection of the Council. 


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The above resolutions were unanimously adopted. 

John Tayler Clerk 

I Willford Woodruff being led by the spirit visited Frooms Hill in Herefordshire England 5 miles 
North of Ledbury on the 5th day of March 1840 & commenced preaching the word of God unto 
the people & many received my testimony & I commenced Baptizing such as should be saved, & 
in one month & 5 days I Baptized Mr Thomas Kington the superintendant of the Church of the 
United Brethren which came out of the methodist connextion & I also Baptized forty Eight 
Preachers of the United Brethren & 1 12 of the members making 158 souls in all. This scenery 
flung into my hands or under my superintendancy & care 42 established places of preaching 
which were licensed according to law including one chapel. 

This has opened the largest field for labour & increase of numbers of any door that has been 
opened in the same length of time since the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints has been 
esstablished. Their was among this number Baptized some of most all classes & churches, 46 
Preachers one dark of the Church of England, one constable & a number of wealthy fanners, & 
when I left this vast field of Labour to go to Preston to attend the conference their was nearly 200 
souls ready to be baptized as soon as an opportunity offera But I have attended the Conferance & 
have again returned into this part of the vineyard, & Elder B. Young is with me & I expect Elder 
Richards soon to assist in pruning this part of the vineyard. 

This field that is now open is about 40 miles from Bristol 40 from Binningham & 120 from 
London. I expect the church will number several hundred in this region soon. 

I found on my return that Elder Kington had baptized 10, & Priest John Cheese 20 making the 
whole No 188 Souls. 

Mobs have arisen against me in some instances. On one occasion they stoned me while baptizing. 
See April 9th. I had vast congregations attended my meetings & the country was all stired up, & 
many priest & people came out to hear what I had to Say & many received my testimony. I feel 
thankful to God for all his mercy & kindness unto me & all the Saints in opening so many doors 
that the kingdom of God may roll forth that there may be a people prepared for the coming of 
Jesus Christ. 

Compare March 26th with April 18th. 


Thus I spent the 14, 15, & 16 of April Siting in council with my Brethren the Twelve & the 
Saints. I preached in the evening of the 15th, in the Temperance Hall to a crouded congregation. I 
felt Happy to have the privilege of sitting in council with my Brethren the Twelve in a foreign 
Nation to do the work of the Lord. 

After our council closed on the 16th I walked with Elder Richards to penworthham & spent the 


Page283 




night. 2 miles 

17th This being good friday the quorum of the Twelve met at penworthham to visit the Saints & 
spend the day together. Before we parted Sister Moon opened a bottle of wine for us to bless & 
partake of which she had kept for 40 years. After spending the day conversing about the things of 
the Kingdom of God we returned to preston & spent the night. 2 m. 

18th The time had come for the Twelve to seperate & go into different parts of the vineyard. It 
was thought wisdom for Elder Kimble to visit the churches that he had built up while in England, 
& that Orson Pratt go North & visit Scotland that John Tayler Commence his Labours in 
Liverpool, that P. P. Pratt go to Manchester to publish the periodical & that George A Smith go 
to the potteries & that Elders Brigham Young & W Richards go with me into the field or 
vineyard which I had opened in Herefordshire & the adjoining county. 

So I took the parting hand with the Twelve & Saints & in Company with Elder Brigham Young 
we took the rail car & rode to Manchester & then took Coach for Burslen. We spent the night at 
Brother Johnstons. Distance 70 m. 

19th Sunday Elder Young preached to the people of Hanly in the Morning & evening. 

Communed with the Saints in the afternoon. We had an interesting time. We spent the night at 
Stoke with Brother Hulme. Distance 8 mi. 

20th We took Coach at Stoke & rode to Stafford. From thence to Wolverhampton & spent the 
night. 35. 

21st We took Coach & rode to Dudley. We had a plain view of the Old Dudly Castle which is on 
a hill North of Dudly. The age of it no man knoweth but it is partly in ruins. 

We rode to Worcester & spent Several hours in this City. We visited the Ancient noted splended 
Worcester Cathedral Which surpassed any thing for splender & architecture mine eyes ever 
beheld. It was about 400 feet in length 800 or 900 years of age. It contained many Monuments 
and portraits of persons which were graven out of marble & lade over the tombs or vaults of 
Ancient Bishops, Lords, & Princis, some of which had lane there for 7 or 800 years. It is said that 
some of those monuments with their winding streets which are carved out of fine marble is as 
neatly executed as any thing found in Europe. Almost evry thing about this cathedral from top to 
bottom is carved out of solid marble. The whole pulpit is carved out of one solid stone. There 
was a large Organ in the building. 

The Church of England still worship in this building. They hold a time of worship twice each day 
in a year. We stoped [-] one service. The whole concern is superior to the architecture of the 
present generation. 

From Worcester we rode to Ledbury & on the ride we passed through the Town of Malvernon 
Malvern Hill the most Noted Hills in England in consequence of they being the highest & the 
most splended prespect of all the surrounding country for 30 miles, & on some of the highest 


Page284 




peaks are large intrenchments whare men retreated to in the time of the roman war. The buildings 
in the village of Malvern are splendid standing on the Side of these Hills. It has long been a place 
of retreat for the Kings Queens princis Lords & Noblemen of London & other parts of England to 
visit in the summer season. We had a view of eastner castle as we past along. 

We spent the night at Mr Francis Pullins in Ledbury. 3 1 m. 

22d We walked to Frooms Hill & called upon Brother John Benbow & had an interview with 
Elder Kington & in the evening we had a church meeting at Standly Hill to do Church Business 
as follows: 

A meeting of the Church of Jesus Christ of Fatter Day Saints at Standly Hill Herefordshire 22d 
day April. 

Elder Brigham Young was called to the chair. Brother John Benbow chosen clerk. President 
Young opened the meeting by prayer When it Was Motioned by Er W Woodruff & seed, by 
Elder Kington that James Hill, James Bams, Charles Price, & John Parry, be ordained to the 
office of a priest, & John Benbow to the Office of a Teacher. Carried unanimously. Elder 
Brigham Young & W Wooddruff then proceded to Ordain the above persons to the offices 
assigned them. Priest Charles Price was then chosen Clerk of the Stanly Hill Branch of the 
church. Meeting closed by prayer. We walked to Frooms Hill & spent the night. 8 m. 

23d Elder Young & myself walked to Moorend Cross & called upon Brother Thomas Jinkins. 

We both had a bad cold & felt ill. I left Brother Young & I walked to Colwall on the side of 
Malvern Hill & preached. I walked on to the top of the Hill before meeting & took an interesting 
survey of the surrounding country. I walked back to Brother Jinkins & spent the night. Distance 
<of the day> 12 mi. 

24th I spent the day in writing. Elder Young wrote a letter to his wife. } I wrote a few words in it 
to Phebe. } I also wrote a full letter to Phebe & sent it to Commerce Illinois. I preached at Brother 
Jinkins & spent the night & was puite ill. 

25th I spent the day & night at Moorends Cross & was quite 111 with a bad Cold. 

26th Notwithstanding I was quite 111 I walked 5 miles to Ashfield & preachd at Mr Baly's & in 
the afternoon to Crowcutt & preached & Baptized 10 persons & confirmed them & Ordained 
Edward Philips a Priest. / 1 <family was taken [— ] some call it the power of God but it is a false 
spirit.>/ One that I Baptized was a preacher. I then returned to Moorends Cross & spent the night 
with Brother Jinkens. Distance of the day 14 miles. /Elder Young Baptized 4 at Frooms Hill./ 

27th I arise quite 111 with my cold. I preached at Moorends Cross & Baptized 3 persons & 
confirmed them one a preacher & spent the night at Brother Jinkins. 

28th I walked to Froores Hill & was still 111. } I wrote a letter to Aphek Woodruff. I spent the 
night with Elder Young at John Benbows. Distance of the day 6 m. 


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29th } 4 4 I wrote 3 Letters one to Lucian R. Foster one to Sister Sarah Foss one short Epistle to 
E. Robinson & D C. Smith. I attended meeting at Frooms Hill. Elder Young preached. We 
ordained Thomas Clark to the Office of a Priest. Spent the night at Brother Benbows. 

30th I spent the day in writing at Froomes Hill. 

30 Friday Thursday I walked with Elder Young to Dymock & had an interview with Elders 
Richards & Kington & spent the night with them. [][][] I recieved 3 Letters one from Mother 
Woodruff & one from G A Smth & one from A Cordon. 12 mil. 

May 

May 1st We walkd to Ledbury. Mailed 10 Letters in one & sent it to John Taylor. Then walked to 
Frooms & spent the night. 12. 

2d Saturday I had an interview with the Official members. Spent the night at Frooms Hill. 
<Brother and Sister Benbow were much tried.> 

3d Sunday I walked to Ridgeway cross & preached to Rough Leasowe & preached to Dunns 
close & preached to a large congregation & had the spirit of God. I spent the night at James 
Williams. 1 1 m. 

4th I preached at Ashfield & spent the night at John Baily's. 5 mile. 

5th I preached at Crowcutt & walked to the Bower & Baptizd 5. One was a preacher. I also 
confirmed them & spent the night with Edmund Waters. <The devil was come.> 4 miles. 

May 6 th This is the dryest spring that has been known in England for many years. The ground is 
parched yet all Nature is covered with verdent green while the fruit trees sends forth their [-] 
perfumes from the smileing Blossoms <with> which theire are clothed. 

I Baptized 5 persons at the Bower & confirmed them. Then preachd at Duns Close & walked to 
taperdin at Mr Smith & Baptized & confirmed 4 making 9 Baptized & confirmed. One a 
preacher. 6 m. 

7th I walkd to Markera Hill & preached at Colwall & spent the night. 8 . 

8 th I walked over Markera Hill visited the friends & preached at night at Malvern Hill & walked 
to Samuel Jones & spent the night. 3. 

9th I walked to Colwall & spent the night at Johnathan Lucy. During this days walk I had a grand 
survey of the works of nature & the power of God while standing upon the top of Malvern Hill 
elevated from 12 to 1500 feet in the air whare I had a view of all the surrounding country for 
many miles. The City of Worcester is in plain view on the North & Gloster in the South with 
several large villages between & Ledbury with other villages in the west with a fine beautiful 


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cultivated vale upon evry hand, & while standing upon this eminance & beholding this grand 
prospect or survey to add to the Solemnity of the Scenery the thunder began to roll & lightnings 
flash beneath my feet while the rain desended in torrents in the vale beneath while I was in the 
midst or above the Clouds to behold the scene. 

10th Sunday I met a company at colwall at Jonanthan Lucy's at 9 o’clok in the morning & 
Baptized 4. Two were Preachers. I confirmed 120 persons. I then preached at Brother Lucys at 
Coilwall. Dined at Mr Holmes, then walked over the top & across Malvern Hill & preached at 
the Pale House. From thence back again across Malvern Hill & Preached at Benjamin Holand on 
the North Side of Malvern Hill. From there I walked to colwall & spent the night which closed 
the scenes of the day. 8 mile. 

1 1th A visit on the Herefordshire Beacon which is the South part of Malvern Hill. 

After having my mind prepared for a lonely walk & meditation by reading P. P. Pratts remarks 
upon the "eternal duration of matter", I commenced assending this noted hill upon the south side 
of it & after arising several hundred feet I came to the top of an old ancient intrenchment about 
one mile in length reaching round all of this part of the hill & meeting together. Then after rising 
another hundred feet I entered another Intrenchment like the one below & after this another & 
thus Intrenchment lay above Intrenchment untill we I reached the top of the hill which was nearly 
flat or level & lay in a circle or round, & not being more than one or two acres on the top & thus I 
stood upon the top of this Bacon or hill from 10 to 1500 feet in highth & while surveighing the 
surrounding Country I could also behold the deep Intrenchments below me which it is supposed 
were flung up nearly a thousand years since & was capable of holding hunderds of thousands of 
persons which was the resort of the romans in the times of their wars. 

These hills are alltogether bare without timber but coverd with grass which is grazed by sheep & 
asses; several acres on the S.W. side is covered with rabit burrows while scores of rabits are 
running about upon the ground. 

But I soon drew my thoughts from the busy rabit, sheep, & asses to the solumn reflections which 
the ravages of time presented before me. O! Malvern thy lofty Hill bares up my feet while mine 
eyes take a survey of thy deep intrenchments. Thy mighty bulwarks, which have trembled by the 
roar of cannon, the clash of anns, & din of war has reeched around thy brow & died away in the 
vale beneath, while the blood of many a roman & Englishman to, have washed thy brow & 
soaked thy soil while they have fallen to rise no more. They sleep in death & time has earth’d 
them all & they are forgotten & blotted from the history & memory of man. Notwithstanding O! 
Malvern thou hast been the Ark or refuge for thousands in the time of trouble or war. 

Yet Willford is the ownly solitary soul that treads thy soil this day & he alone bends his knee 
upon on the highth of thy summer in the midst of the Clouds to offer up the gratitude of his heart 
unto that God who will soon level all hills exhalt all valies & redeem the earth from the curse of 
sin & prepare it for the abode of the Saints of the MOST HIGH. 


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I retired from the hill into the vale reflecting upon the rise, progress, decline, & fall of the 
empires of the earth, & the revolutions which must still transpire before the winding up scene & 
the comeing of Christ. 


I preached at candle light at Brother John Allard at windpoint & had the spirit of God & 

Baptized 4 & confirmed them. I spent the night at Mr Joseph Symons. Distance 5 mil. 

12th A member of the Weslian Methodist Church came to me to inquire what she should do to be 
saved. I told her she must be born of the water & spirit, repent & be paptized for the remission of 
sins. She received my testimony & wished me to baptize her. I also called upon a woman that 
tended the gate at Chaneys pitch & preached the word unto her who received the word gladly & 
wished to be baptized. I then called upon Mrs Sarah Stanton the overseer & keeper of the 
splended mansion house by the name of Brand Lodge. This Lady was a weslian but received my 
testimony & I Baptized the three 3 females above spoken of in a conveneient pool or bath 
inclosed in the Brand Lodge. I also confirmed them & then walked to Keysend Street & held a 
meeting with the saints & had a good time & confirmed 19 persons. 

It seemed as though some would worship me while they cried out here is a man of Zion the man 
of God that we have so long looked for. Who is worthy to receieve him into our house? I told 
them to worship God for I was ownly a servant of God. 

I spent the night at William Hills. I Baptized 3 & confirmed 22 in all. Distance 8 mi. 

13th I Baptized 1, & walked to Ledbury & received two [] [] letters one from Elder Turley one 
from P P Pratt. I then walked to Standly Hill & had an interview with priest Chees & Barnes. 
Brother Cheese had Baptized 15 Since I last saw him. Also Priest John Parry Baptized 3 May 3d. 

Elder Turley says in his letter I shall be liberated from prision tomorrow. May God grant it. I 
walked to Frooms Hill & Baptized 3, & met in company with Elder Young with the church & 
had a good meeting. We broke bread with the saints & Ordained one Elder John Cheese & 
William Parsons, & Joseph Pullen, to the office of a Priest & Thomas Jenkins a Teacher. We 
confirmed 9 persons & Elder Chees baptized 2 persons. T Clark also baptized 2 persons. I spent 
the night at John Benbows. 12 miles. 

14th <Received> {200} /<pounds of John Benbow for printing the Book of Mormon.>/ I walked 
to Ledbury with Elder Young. From thence to Keysend Street & preached but amid much 
disturdance & as the meeting was about breaking up the congregation was besmeared with rotten 
eggs. I spent the night at Wm. Hill. <Distance> 1 1 m. 

15th I walked to Dymock & spent the Day with Elders Young Richards & Kington. I Baptized & 
confirmed one. I found Elders Richards & Kington had Baptized 50 confirmed 100 Ordained 10 
priest & 1 Teachers since I last saw them. 


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Elder Young preached at Br Kington. We spent the night at his house. We had a good time & 
Blessed the houshold of Elder Kington & lade on hands for the healing of the sick. 

16th Elder Kington Baptized one. I spent the night at Elder Kington. Elders Young & Richards 
walked to Turkey hall & spent the night. 

17th Sunday This is the anniversary [-] at Gadfield Elm at which place I met with the Saints in 
Company with Elders Young & Richards. I preached in the morning, & Elder Young in the 
afternoon & while he was preaching opposers made much disturdance & was determined to 
break up the meeting. Elder Young rose up in the power of the Priesthood & in the name of the 
Great God & according to the laws of the land Commanded order. Two of the brethren went to 
the door to keep order. Elder Richards was one of them & they were enabled to overcom the 
enemy & peace was again restored. 

We administered the Lords supper, & confirmed 5, & ordained 4 Priests viz Thomas Brooks, 
William Simons, Thomas Smith & Warren Samuel Balldwin . Also one Teacher James Baldwin. 

I then walked to Dymock. Had a good time in prayer & spent the night at Elder Kington’s. 16 mi. 

18th This was an interesting day. I met some friends at Mr Joseph Hills in Dymock at 5 oclock in 
the morning & I Baptized 3 persons 2 Churchmen 1 weslian. From thence we walked to William 
Harts. Elder Kington Baptized 7. Elders Young & Richard Confirmed them. In a few moments I 
Baptized 5 others who were confirmed as they come out of the water. Then we returned to Elder 
Kingtons & while on the rode we met another person that wished to be Baptized. Br Kington 
Baptized her. 

This was on a FEAST day. Elder Kington made a feast for the Saints, which had been a custom 
among the United Brethren But as they now were all receiving the fulness of the gospel they had 
become Saints. The Saints began to collect at 2 oclock. By 4 we had nearly 100 Saints together to 
the feast. 

We truly had an interesting time. Elder Young addressed the Saints clothed with the power of 
God, & then asked a blessing upon the food prepared. We then sat down to the table & eat & 
drank with nearly 100 Saints possessing glad hearts & cheerful Countenances. Elder Richards 
remarked that he did not believe their had ever been such a company of Saints prepared in so 
short a time & bid fairer for the kingdom of heaven than the company now before us, at least 
since the Church of Latter Day Saints was first Organized, & I truly felt Grateful to my heavenly 
Father for his mercy when I reflected back upon the time ownly two months & a half since when 
I first proclaimed the fulness of the gospel in this region & began to Baptize such as received my 
testimony, & now their is nearly 400 Souls standing in the new & Everlasting Covenant & the 
prospect of the work constantly increasing. 

After our feast was past the house was called to Order by Elder Young who deliverd a short 
address, after which 3 were confirmed by Elder Richards & myself. /Mary Pitt had not walked 


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except on crutches for 1 1 years. Was healed by laying on of hands./ We also Ordained Daniel 
Browett an Elder & John Smith, John Davis, James Morgan, Robert Clift, John Gaily, & William 
Evens to the office of a priest. 

After our meeting was Closed, 3 were Baptized. Baptism was administered by Priest James 
Morgan, who was baptized, Ordained, & commenced Baptizing all in one Day. The 3 Baptized 
were also confirmed which closed the business of the Day Making 19 Baptized confirmed, & 
Ordained 1 Elder & 6 Priest. 4 mile. 

19th I walked in company with Elders Young & Richards to Keysend street. Elder Young 
preached. After meeting I Baptized 4 who were confirmed as they came out of the water by 
Elders Young & Richard. 6 miles. 

{100} <Received of Elder> Kington 100 <pounds for printing the Book of Mormon. > 

20th We walked to Wind Point & Elders Young Richards & myself walked on to the top of the 
part of Malvern Hill Called Herefordshire Bacon. Here we united in prayer & held a council & 
unitedly felt that it was the will of God that Elder Young should go immediately to Manchester to 
assist in Publishing a Collection of Hymns of 3,000 copies & also to immediately print & finish 
3,000 copies of the Book of Mormon for we had procured £300 three hundred pounds of lawful 
currency for this purpose. We feel anxios to soon circulate the knowledge of the Book of 
Mormon to all foreign nations & as this is the first commencment of it I Pray God to Bless the 
effort & make it a benefit to man. 

We walked from the hill into the valey & took the parting hand with Elder Brigham Young who 
started for Manchester. We Elder Richards & myself tarried & preached at Wind Point. Elder 
Richards Baptized 2 Persons. Elder Richards confirmed one & I the other. /I ordained John 
Allard teacher./ We spent the night at Mr Joseph Simons. 6 m. 

2 1st I took a walk again with Br Richards over the Intrenchments to the top of the Herefordshire 
Beacon. We had prayers together & after spending a few hours in viewing the country we 
returned again into the valey. Elder Richards Baptized 2 persons. I confirmed one & Br Richards 
the other. We /confirmed 2 ordained 3 priest Samuel Jones, Thomas Jones, Jonanthan Lucy,/ 
preached at Colwall & spent the night. Distance 4 m. 

22d I went over Marlvem Hill with Br Richard. Had a splended view of the vale beneath. We 
stoped in the sitting house half way down the hill. Br Richards engraved his name with mine in 
the building. We went into the valey. Dined with Br Samuel Jones. After dinner we walked up to 
the Holy well house & drank of the Holy water. So no[..] that comes out of Marlvem Hill, & 
after visiting several friends east of the hill, we walked on to the top of great Marlvem which is 
the highest peak of any part of the hill. Here we could overlook all the hills & surrounding 
country. We bowed down & offered up our prayers unto God, & walked down the west side of 
the hill & preached at Marlvem hill & walked to Br Jinkins & spent the night. Distance 8 mi. 


Page290 




23d We spent the day at Moorends Cross at Br Jinkins. We blessed the family for they were 
worthy. We had a good time. <1 spoke one time.> 

24th Sunday I walked to Old Starridge Common to attend a camp meeting. I preached in the 
morning Br Richards in the evening after which we broke bread unto the saints, & Also ordained 
3 priest viz. George Allen, James Williams, John Meeks, & 1 Teacher, William Willians. I 
Baptized 3 who were confirmed by Br Richards. We spent the night at Br William Smith at 
Tapperdy. 7 m. 

25th We spent the day in looking up the aged & infirm & Baptized as many of them as would 
received our testimony. I Baptized 6 & Br Richards confirmed them. One was 80 years of age. 
We preached at Dunns Closs & spent the night at William Rowley. 4. 

26th We walked to Little Batchfield, or John Fidoe at Bishops Froome, & spent the day. At night 
we preached at Joseph Pullin & spent the night at Br Fidoes. 8. Ordained John Fidoe to the 
Office of a Priest. 

27th We baptized Charlotte Pullin & confirmed her. She had been a cripple from her birth & she 
recieved a blessing by receiving the ordinances of the gospel. We walked to Stokes Lane & 
preached at Joseph Evens, & confirmed 10 persons & Ordained 2 Priest & 1 Teacher, William 
Davis, Thomas Sanders, P. Thomas Vervon T. Spent the night at Stokes Lane. 3. 

28th I Baptized /*(48)/ 4 at Cricks Green who were Confirmed by Elder Richards. We then 
walked to Hope Rough & preached at William Hall. I Baptized 5 after meeting & Elder Richards 
Confirmed them, making 9 Baptized 10 Confirmed. We spent the night at H Rough. 5 m. 

We visited the greatest Curiosity of evergreen that has yet been discoverd in Europe or America 
or any part of the world that has ever come to our knowledge. It is upon the farm Called (Hopton 
in the hole) in the parish of Much Cowen, Herefordshire England, owned by Richard Gardner. 
This evergreen was in a circular form inclosing about one acre composed of the Yew Tree 
growing out, or standing in the midst of a hedge or border of Boxbush. The Yew Trees were 
about in the fonn & highth of a high & well built hay or wheat stack. The trees were considered 
to be several hundred years of age. This evergreen was surrounded by a canal of water. 

29th We met at the Creek & I Baptized 2 & Elder Richards Confirmed them & walked to 
Shucknell Hill & Preached. After meeting I Baptized 3, one a preacher on the plan. We 
Confirmed them & Ordained one Priest Benjamin Williams making 5 Baptized & Confirmed. 
<Distance of the day> 6 miles. 

30th Elder Richards Baptized 2 & I Confirmed them. We then walked to Froomes Hill & spent 
the night at Br John Benbows & it was a vary interesting night to my feelings. For Just as Elder 
Richards & myself had retired to rest for the night Br John Fidoe came in & brought us [] R D D D 
[] six letter. The three directed to myself were one from Sister Mary Packard at west Bromwich, 
one from Elder Milton Holmes Georgetown Massachusetts & the third was from PHEBE W. 


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WOODRUFF Montrose Lee County Ioway, U.S.A. 


Yes glory Hallelujah I have now got a letter from Phebe. It is the first letter I have received from 
her since I have been in England. Her letter contained much intelligence of Interest. She informed 
me she was blessed with the birth of a Son, on the mom of the 22 of March 1840 at 6 oclock. His 
Name is WILLFORD WOODRUFF Jr. May he be preserved blameless unto the comeing of the 
Lord Jesus Christ for which I will ever Pray. 

One letter was from Elder Brigham Young at Manchester infonning us that the first No of the 
Millenial Star was out of press & that the Hymn Book & Book of Mormon would soon be in tipe. 
One letter was from Sister Richards, & one from Elder Whitehead & their was so much glorious 
news in thes letters that it drove sleep from our eyes for the night & I felt more like going out 
into the street & shouting glory Hallelujah than any thing els. <Elder Turley is> out <of prison.> 
10 miles. 

3 1st Sunday According to appointment we met at Froores Hill to attend a Camp meeting. I 
preached in the morning on the authenticity of the Book of Mormon after which I went to the 
pool & Baptized 12 which we confirmed by the waters edge. Elder Richards preached in the 
afternoon. We then broke bread unto the Saints about 100. Then went to the pool & Elder Cheese 
baptized 2, which we Confirmed in Company with 3 others that had been baptized before. Total 
14 Baptized & 17 Confirmed. We spent the night at Br Benbows. Two of the above which I 
baptized were preachers. 


June 

JUNE 1st 4 1 wrote a letter to Elder Milton Holmes. I Baptized 9 & Elder Richards Confirmed 
them. We then walked to Ledbury & preached & spent the night. The Churches in Herefordshire 
Now No 402. 8 m. 

2d } I wrote a letter to Elder Tayler. We received the first NO of the Mill. Star. Elder Young 
ordained John Preece of Ledbury a Priest & Philip Green of Lugwardin to the Office of an Elder 
while on a mission here. We walked to Dymock & spent the night. 5 miles. 

3d f I wrote a Letter to Phebe in answer to hers of March 8th & 22d also one to Elder John 
Tayler. A notable miracle was wrought by faith & the power of God in the person of Sister Mary 
Pitt at Dymok. She had been Confined 6 years to her bed, with the spine which mostly deprived 
her of the use of her feet & ancles, & had not walked for 1 1 years ownly with the use of crutches. 
Elders Young Richards & Woodruff lade hands upon her & rebuked her infirmity & her ancle 
bones received strength & she now walks without the aid of crutch or staff. See May 18th. 

4th I walked to Haw Cross & preached at Br Wm. Symons & spent the night at his house. 5 
miles. 

5th I walked to Bran Green & while on the way I called to see a woman that was sick at red 
Marley, & while sitting in the house I saw a curiosity. A man Called at the door accompaned 


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with a small dog. The man held in his hand a small bag containing three ferrets & inpuired of the 
woman if she wanted her house cleared of rats. She answered yes. The man then opened the bag 
& took out three ferrets about the size of a large rat around the body & twice as long, & put them 
into the rat holes & they immediately drove the rats from under the house out of their holes into 
the room whare we were & the little Dog stood watching & cought them & killed the rats as they 
came out of their holes. 

I preached at Bran Green & walked to Haw Cross & spent the night at Priest Wm. Symons. 
Distans of the day 6 miles. 

I was accompanied during this days walk by Brother Job Smith. He was but 1 1 years of age but 
he had the longest head I ever saw upon a boy & the most in it. He had a great mind & it was 
well stored with knowledge & understanding. He is almost a Proverb among the people whare he 
is known, & I think he will be a useful character in his day & generation. Born Dec 28 1828. 

June 6th I walked to Br Benj. Hills at Turkey Hall & spent the night. 4 mile. 

7th Sunday According to appointment I met a congregation of saints & sinners at the coars Lawn 
for the purpose of holding a camp meeting. I preached in the fore part of the day & was followed 
by a Priest & in the afternoon several of the Priest & Elder deliverd their testimony, & I closed 
the meeting by delivering my testimony unto them. Their was a large congregation of different 
denominations. 

After the camp meeting closed we repaired to a house & broke bread unto a large number of the 
Saints & Confmned 8 & one was baptized by Br Spires. Our last meeting was some disturbed for 
a few moments by some fighting of the Ungodly at the door but was soon silenced. I walked to 
the Ligh & spent the night at Br Brewett. 6 miles. 

Brother Nathan Roderts Died this morning at Dearhurst. 11 

8th I walked to Deehurst & Preached. Blessed 2 children & spent the night at the house of 
William & Thomas Smith. I dreamed I saw a large Church on fire. The steple which was high 
was in a flame. Several men were in the belfry with ropes, pulleys, & Chains trying to save some 
part of the Building but were soon obliege to flee for the safety of their own lives for much of 
the surrounding Country was on fire. 1 was on a large horse & rode out of the way of it. 3 m. 

9th 1 attended the funeral of Brother Nathan Roberts. I sung a Hymn & Prayed before the body 
was conveyed to the grave. 1 blessed her children & endeavord to comfort the widow. 

I Baptized 6 & Confirmed them, Blessed 1 1 children, lade on hands for the healing of 4 that was 
Sick, this at Deerhurst & then walked to Apperly & preached at Brother Robins & spent the night 
at Robt. Harris. I visited the river Severn. 3 m. 

10th 1 Blessed 12 children at Apperly & walked to the Leigh. From thence to Norton & preached 
& returned to Leigh & spent the night. 5 miles. 


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1 1th I spent the day at Twigworth. I Baptized 4 & confirmed them. I Preached at night at Brother 
Hills. A quaker from Gloster attended meeting. I Blessed 4 children & walked to the Leigh & 
spent the night. 4 m. 

June 12th I walked to Dymock & had an interview with Elder Richards. He had Just returned 
from the South part of Herefordshire whare he had built up a Church of 1 1 members & ordained 
one Teacher John Castreo. We preached at Br Kingtons Confirmed 2 & healed one that was sick. 
Elder Richards wrote a peace for the Star. 12. 

13th I held a council with Elders Richards & Kington preparatory to the Conference. We 
received a letter from Elder } Young at Liverpool stating that 40 of the Saints had left Lpool on 
board of a Ship for America & they had taken my letters to Phebe & M Holmes. Elder Richards 
& myself walked to Br Hills at Turkey hall & spent the night. 10 m. 


Wostershire Glostershire England 
Minutes of a Conference held at Gadfield’s Elm June 14th 1840. 

The Preachers & members of the Bran Green & Gadfields Elm Branch of the Frooms Hill 
Curcult of the United Brethren met at the Gadfield Elm Chapel June 14th 1840 /Wostershire 
England/ Persuent to previous notice. When the meeting was Called to order by Elder Thomas 
Kington. Elder Willard Richards was Chosen President & Elder Daniel Browett chosen Clerk for 
the meeting. 

The meeting opened by Prayer by Elder W Woodruff. Remarks were then made by the President 
respecting the business of the Day & the necessary changes which must take place. 

It was moved by Elder T. Kington seconded by Elder D. Browett that this meeting be hereafter 
Known by the name of the Bran Green & Gadfields Elm Conference of the Church of Jesus 
Christ of Latter Day Saints organized & esstablished by the will & commandment of God in the 
United States of America on the 6th Day of April A.D. 1830, this being the eight Day of the third 
month of the eleventh year of the rise of the Church. Carried unanimously. 

Moved by Elder W. Woodruff seconded by Elder T. Kington that William Jenkins be Ordained 
an Elder & William Coleman, William Pitt, Joseph Ferkins, & Robert Harris Ordained to the 
office of a Priest & George Burton & James Palmer /William Lavendge/ Teachers. Carried 
Unanimously. The above named Persons were then Ordained under the hands of Elders Richards 
& Woodruff. 

Moved by Elder Kinton Seconded by Elder Woodruff that Priest Robert Clift have the care of the 
Church at Dymock. 

James Palmer Priest care of the Church at Kilcott 


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John Hill Priest 
William Simonon 
Priest 

William Coleman 
Priest 

Thomas Brooks Priest 
John Smith Priest 
Charles Hays Priest 
Thomas Smith Priest 
John Vernon Priest 
William Baylis Priest 
John Arlick Priest 
John Spires Priest 
John Davis Priest 
Thomas Oaky Priest 


care of the Church at Twigworth 

care of the Church at Haw Cross 

Bran Green 
Ryton 
Lime Street 
Deerhurst 

Assistant to the same 

Apperly 

Assistant 

Norton 

Leigh 

Assistant 

Gadfield Elm 


Elder D. Browett to take the charge of the Churches on the South Side of the River Severn. 

Elder William Jenkens to take the charge of the Churches on the North Side of the river Severn. 
Carried unanimously. 


Elder Thomas Kington to have Moved by Elder Woodruff seconded by Elder Richards that Elder 
Thomas Kington be the Presiding Elder over all the churches composing this conference. 

Carried. Meeting adjourned to 2 oclock. 

Met at 2 oclock according to adjornment & administered the Sacrament unto a large 
Congregation of Saints accompanied by many observations on various subjects by the President. 
10 members were confirmed under the hands of Elder’s Woodruff & Kington. Remarks made by 
the President respecting the blessing of children. 7 children were then Blessed under the hands of 
Elders Woodruff & Kington. 


Moved by Elder Kington, seconded by Elder Woodruff, that Elder Daniel Browett represent this 
Conference to the general Conference at Manchester on the 6th Day of July next. Carried. 

Mooved & carried that the clerk present to the presiding Elder T. Kington, for safe Keeping, a 
copy of the minutes of this Conference, & also to The general Conference. 


The above minutes were then read & accepted article by article, when it was mooved by the 
President, & seconded by Elder Woodruff that this conference be adjourned to the 13th of 
September next at this place. Carried unanimously. /Conference closed by prayer./ 

After which the Elders & Officers present met in Council & voted unanimously to esstablish a 
weekly council of the Officers of said Conference to be held alternately on the south & north 
sides of the river Severn to commence as at Leigh on the 26th inst. & organized the same by 


Page295 




appointing Elder Daniel Browett President & John Hill Priest Standing Clerk, on the South side 
of the river, & Also on the North Side by appointing Elder William Jenkins President & John 
Smith Priest Standing Clerk to assemble on the 26th of June /[.] d of July/ next at Turkey Hall. 

After passing many other votes of minor importance accompanied by much instruction from 
Elders Richards & Woodruff touching the duties of the Several Officers in their relations to each 
other & the Church. The council adjourned & it is worthy of remark that no dissenting vote or 
voice was seen or herd during the day either in Conference or Council. 

Willard Richards President 
Daniel Browett Clerk 


The above named Conference was composed of 12 Branches of the Church being the whole 
number organized on the mission, Containing 


3 Elders 
19 Priest 

4 Teachers 

Total 26 Officers 

June 15th We walked to Dymock. I walked to Ryton & Preached & returned to Dymock & spent 
the night. Confirmed 2 persons. } I received a letter from Elder John Taylors. 10 m. 

16th Walked to Lugwardine. Preached at the house of William Green, father of Elder Philip 
Green. After meeting 3 were Baptized by Elder Green. Elder Richards & myself Confirmed 11, 
Ordained 2 Priest John Powel, John White, & Blessed 3 children. Distance of the day 15 m. 

17th I Baptized 6. Elder Richards Confirmed them. One was a Preacher. We Blessed 4 children 
lade hands upon 2 that were sick, & walked to Marden & preached at the house of William Jay. I 
Baptized 4. Elder Richards Confirmed them. We administered to 5 which were sick & numbers 
having faith were healed. Sum total 10 Baptized & Confirmed. Blessed 4 children healed 7 that 
were sick & spent the night with Br Jay. <Distance of the day> 6 miles. 

18th I Baptized 5 which we confirmed. We Ordained Francis Burnet to the office of a Priest. We 
Blessed 6 children administered to 2 that wer sick, then walked to Shucknel Hill & Preached at 
Brother Williams. We had an interesting time. Elder Richards Preached from these words "if the 
Lord be God serve him." The power of the Priest Hood rested upon & the principles of Eternal 
truth were presented so plain that no opposing power could withstand them. When he closed I 
arose & bore testimony to the truth of what they had herd. 

The church minister in the Parish Sent a spy to attend meeting to carry him word what we 
preached. As soon as meeting closed I put my hand upon his shoulder & asked him what he 
thought of our doctrin. He replied "I think it is of God." He appeared asstonished when he left the 


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house. 


Almost evry person I conversed with said they wished to be Baptized as soon as an oppertunity 
offered. Several were Baptized by Elder Green on their return home. One was Baptized after 
meeting by Benjamin Williams Priest. We Ordained Ishmael Philip to the office of a Priest & 
Blessed 7 children. Sum Total 6 Baptized & confinned, 2 Priest Ordained, Blessed 13 children 
healed 2 that were sick. Spent the night at Priest William. Distance of the day 7 miles. 

19th I arose early in the morning & Baptized & confirmed one. A number of others soon came to 
us & wished to be Baptized. We immediately walked to the river Lug. & we being hendered a 
short time in looking for a suitable place for Baptizing a man by the name of Pitt Came to us 
filled with the Devil & wrath at the head of a mob & commanded us not to he Baptized in that 
river & threatened us much if we did so. Elder Richard Preached to Mr Pitt & warned him to 
repent & be Baptized or he could not be saved. But the Devel raged to such a degree in this man 
& his company we thought it wisdom to omit it on this occasion. We did so & retired & went our 
way, with this wicked man & the rest of the mob following us shouting, hooting, & yelling as 
though a part of hell at least had broke loose. The Saints were strengthend seeing that they were 
not of the world but the world hated them & we also went our way rejoicing that we were 
counting worthy to partake of thes things. 

We clensed our feet by the way side as a testimony against Mr Pitt for rejecting our testimony, & 
forbiding, & hindering, others from Entering into the kingdom of God. May the will of God be 
done conseming that man, I pray that we may ever be reconciled to his will in all things. 

We walked to Froom hill & found Br & Sister Benbows both in Better spirits than I have ever 
seen them before. Baptized one, & administered unto one that was sick. Spent the night at 
Brother Benbows. 8. Total 2 Baptized one confirmed one healed. 

*(49) 

June 20th I spent the day in company with Elders Richards & Kington in making arangments for 
the conference. It was an exceding busy day. We had a great variety of business on hand. Among 
the rest I Baptized 8 Persons & we confirmed 14 & administering to 2 that were sick. Elder 
Richards received 2 letters. I Blessed 3 children. 

The power of God is among the People. The Lord is making a short work in this part of the Land. 
The Churches in this part of the vineyard now number more than 500 souls whare a little more 
less than four months since ther was not one to be found or the fulness of the Gospel herd. Praise 
the Lord O my Soul for all his goodness to the children of men, Prase ye the Lord O his Saints. 

Spent the night at Br Benbows. 

Minutes of A Conference held at Standly Hill Bishop Castle Froome Herefordshire England on 
the 21st June AD 1840. 


Page297 




The Preachers & members of the Frooms Hill Circuit of the United Brethren met at the house of 
Elder John Cheese on Stanly Hill Herefordshire England June 21st AD 1840 at 10 oclock AM 
according to previous notice. When the meeting was called to order by Elder Thomas Kington & 
Elder Willford Woodruff was chosen President & Elder John Benbow Clerk of the meeting. 

After Prayer by Elder Richards, & remarks by the president concerning the business of the day it 
was Moved by Elder Kington seconded by Elder Benbow that this meeting be hereafter known 
by the name of the Frooms Hill Conference of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints 
Organized & esstablished by the will & Commandment of God in the United States of America 
on the 6th Day of April A.D. 1830. This being the 15th Day of the third month of the eleventh 
year of the rise of the Church. Carried Unanimously. 

Mooved by Elder Richards Seconded by Elder Kington that 


Thomas Clark 
Charles Price 

Also John Jones 

Joseph Shinn 
Henry Jones 
James Baldwin 
Also that Robert Hill 
George Brooks 


James Hill 

Samuel Jones, be Ordained 
Elders 

John Morgan 
Samuel Badham 
John Dyer 
be Ordained Priest 
James Shinn 
James Watkins 
Be Ordained Teachers 


Carried Unanimously & Ordained under the hands of Elders Richards & Woodruff. 

Mooved by Elder Kington seconded by Elder Richards that John James Priest have the care of 
the churches at Frooms Hill. 


John Morgan 

Assistant 


John Parry Priest 


Standly Hill 

Joseph Pullen 

Assistant 


Robert Hill 

Teacher 


James Bames Priest 


Ridgway cross 

William Dossons Priest 


Moorend cross 

William Jinkings 

Assistant 


Thomas Jenkins 

Teacher 


Jonathan Lucy 

Priest 

Colwall 

Thomas Jones 


Pale house 

William Williams 

Teacher 



Page298 



John Preece 

Priest 

Ledbury 

Joseph Firkins 

Assistant 


Samuel Warren 

Priest 

Keysend Street 

Joseph Shinn 

Assistant 


James Shinn 

Teacher 


James Baldwin 

Priest 

Wind Point 

John Allard 

Teacher 


George Allen Priest 

Woferwood Common 


Rough Leasowe 
Birchwood 
Tunbridge & 
Duns Close will 


all be united in one branch called Duns Close branch Samuel Badham Priest Care of church at 

Duns Close. 



James Williams 

Priest Assistant 


Edward Philips 

Priest 

Ashfield & 

George Brooks 

Teacher 

Crawcutt 

John Meeks 

Priest 

Old Starridge 

Henry Jones 

Assistant 


John Gaily 

Priest 

Hope Rough 

Benjamin Williams 

Shucknell Hill 

Ishmael Philips 

Assistant 


John Powel 

Priest 

Lugwardin 

John White 

Assistant 


John Dyer 

Priest 

Mardon 

Francis Burnett 

Assistant 


James Watkins 

Teacher 


William Evens 

Priest 

Stokes Lane 

William Davis 

Assistant 


John Sanders 

Assistant 


Thomas Vernon 

Teacher 


John Fidoe 

Priest 

Bishop Froome 

Carried Unanimoussly 


Mooved by Elder Richards seconded by Elder Kington that Elder Thomas Clark have charge of 

the Churches at 

Duns Close 
Old Starridge 



Page299 




Elder Samuel Jones 

Ashfield & 
Crawcutt 
Keysend Green 

Elder Philip Greene 

Wind Point 
Colwall 
Pale house 
Malvern Hill 
Shucknell Hill 

Elder John Cheese 

Lugwardin 
Mardon 
Stokes Lane 

Elder Charles Price 

Woferwood Common 
Bishop Froome 
Ledbury 

Elder James Hill 

Ridgway Cross 
Hope Rough 

Elder John Benbow 

Stanly Hill 
Frooms Hill 


Carried Unanimously 

Mooved by the President & seconded by Elder Richards that Elder Thomas Kington be the 
presiding Elder of all the Churches composing this conference. Carried unanimously. 

After remarks by the President Meeting adjourned to 2 oclock P.M. During recess 10 persons 
were Baptized. Assembled at 2 oclock according to adjournment & administered the Sacrament 
to several hundred Saints after which 20 were Confirmed & 20 children blessed under the hands 
of Elders Richards & Woodruff accompanied with observations from the President explanitory of 
the ordinance. 

Mooved by Elder Richards seconded by the President that Elder Thomas Kington represent this 
Conference to the general conference at Manchester on the 6th Day of July next. Carried. 

Mooved & carried that the clerk of this Conference present to the presiding Elder Thomas 
Kington a copy of the minutes of this Conference for safe keeping Also a copy to present at the 
general Conference at Manchester. 

These minutes were then read article by article & accepted by the conference. 

The President followed by Elder Richards then proceded to give such instruction to the Saints 
concerning the order of the church & the duties of the members, as the Spirit directed, & bore 
testimony to the multitude of the truth of the work followed by Elder Kington. When it was 
moved by Elder Richards & Seconed by the President that this conference adjourn to the 21st 
Day of September next 10 oclock A.M. Carried Unanimously. 


Page300 




After prayer & singing the assembly dispersed & the Elders & Officers went into Council & 
chose Elder W Woodruff President & Elder John Benbow clerk. Opened by prayer by Elder 
Richards. Moved by Elder Richards & seconded by Elder Kington that we procede to establish & 
organized monthly Councils of the Officers of the frooms Hill Conference to Commence on 
Friday the 3 day of July next 7 1/2 oclock PM in the several Divisions respectively assigned to 
the different Elders Viz Standing Clerk Elder Thomas Clark President & James Meeks Duns 
Close 

Elder Samuel Jones = William Williams = Wind Point 
" Philip Green = Francis Bumet = Lugwardin 

" John Cheese = George Allen = Stokes Lane 

" Charles Price = Thomas Jenkins = Moorend Cross 
" James Hill = Joseph Pullen = Standly Hill 
" John Benbow = John Morgan = Frooms Hill 

Carried unanimously 

Moved by Elder Richards seconded by Elder Kington that a monthly general Council of the 
Officers of this conference be holden at Standly Hill to commence on friday the 17th Day of July 
next 7 1/2 oclock P.M. Elder Thomas Kington President & Elder John Benbow Standing Clerk. 

Carried Unanimously 

The President then Proceded to explain the nature of the Priesthood & the duties & privliges of 
the several Offices & gave such instruction as their situation required followed by Elder Richard 
who explained many Important principles connected with the building up the Kingdom. 

The minutes of the council were then read item by item & accepted. When the council adjourned 
& after singing "the spirit of God" &c & a blessing by Elder Richards the Brethren seperated 
with feelings of Gratitude & thanksgiving that God had been with his people & the spirit of 
union & Love had prevailed in all the deliberations of the DAY. 

Willford Woodruff President 
John Benbow Clerk 


Remarks: The different Branches in this region are so scattered that it has not been possible to 
assertain the No of members Connected with each individual Church but the whole number of 
the Churches connected with the Bran Green & Gadficld Elm & the Frooms Hill Conference 
together with a small branch of 12 members 1 priest 1 Teacher at little Gurney is 33 Churches 
534 Members 75 Officers Viz. 10 Elders 52 Priests 13 Teachers & for the comforting of the 
Saints & with hartfelt gratitude to our Heavenly [Father] we would say that it is less than four 
months since the fullness of the gospel was first Preached in this region, which is a proof that 


Page301 




God is beginning to make a short work in these last days. W. Woodruff. 


I Baptized 4, Jointly Confirmed 20, Blessed 20 children Ordained 4 Elders, 7 Priest, & 4 
Teachers. 8 miles. 


Reflections 

From Adam man decended & prospered & blessed untill he polluted the earth by sin & 
wickedness to that degree that God destroyed the whole world by a flood except 8 souls & they 
went forth & again peopled the earth & was always blessed when they kept the Commandments 
of God & was cursed when they broke them. God blessed Abram & made Covenants with him & 
his seed. Though Israel was in slavery as it were under Pharro yet when they cryed unto God & 
was humble God raised up Moses & delivered them & Cursed the Egyptian nation & overthrew 
them. God overthrew the Canaanite & gave the land to Israel. 

Nation after Nation has risen flourish & fallen from generation to generation. Babylon the 
excellency of the Chaldeans, & the glory of kingdoms was in her turn lade in the dust, & while 
the curse of God rested upon many nations for their sins & for Israels sake, Israel forgot her God 
& turned to Idols, & proved the Lord to be equal in all his ways by Scattering Israel to the four 
winds of heaven overthrowing Jerrusalem laying her pallaces, Synnagogues, & Temples, in the 
dust to be trodden down by the gentiles while Judah was driven like the dumb Ass under his 
burthen scatterd among all nations as com was sifted in a sive. 

The gentile nations took her lands was grafted in whare Israel was broaken of & partook of the 
fatness of her olive tree & for a short season broat forth her fruit. Then Rome arose & Greece in 
her turn have both spread themselves like a green bay tree & strove to have their branches reach 
to heaven while built upon Judah min, who at the same time is recieving double at the hand of 
God for all his sins, Greece & Rome in ther turn fall to the ground, & out of Rome Comes forth 
ten kingdoms who are now struggling for the mastery to sway the septure oer the earth. 

But in vain, in vain, do ye strive O! ye gentiles for this thing. Ye are ownly fuel for the fire & 
tinder for the Breath of the Almighty. Ye have not continued in the goodness of God neither have 
ye sought to recover Israel. WO, WO, WO, unto you Rome for you are the mother of harlets & 
Wo unto all your daughters England & America not excepted. Your destruction is sure. Your 
condemnation lingereth not & your Damnation Slumbereth not. For you are all drunk with the 
Blood of Saints. You have spoiled Judah & Ephram you have trodden down. But he will rise 
again & fullfill the word of God on thee! ! 

June 22d Elders Richards & myself spent the morning in aranging the minutes of the Conference 
at Elder John Benbows. We confirmed one Blessed 4 children. I then Baptized 5 persons & 
confirmed them & also 2 others were Baptized by Elder Clark which we confirmed. This was 
Just as we were about to leave of Frooms Hill to start on our Journey for the Conference at 


Page302 





Manchester, & I never before left a field of labour with as much Satisfaction as on this occasion 
& I felt to render up the gratitude of my heart to God for his Goodness to me on this occasion by 
giving me many souls as seals of my ministry, for being led to this country by the spirit of God. 

I had traveled 80 miles through a country of Dens population & stoped at John Benbows & 
Preached for the first time on the 5th day of March 1840 & I am this day blessed with the 
privilege of leaving a fruitful field in this land with 33 Organized Churches, Numbering 541 
members 75 Officers viz. 10 Elder 52 Priest, 13 Teachers. 

300 of the above named Persons received the ordinance of Baptism under my hands, & 241 were 
Baptized under the hands of Elders B Young, W. Richard, T Kington, J Chees, C. Price, D 
Browett, T Clark, S Jones, P. Green, Also Priest John Parry, J Barnes, T Oaky J Palmer J. 
Morgan, W Jinkins, J Spires, B. Williams W. Parsens, W. Evens & J Gaily. 

Elder B. Young laboured with me in this vineyard about one month. I obtained much benefit, as 
well as all the Saints from his instruction & council for he is mighty in Council & endowed with 
much wisdom. Elder W. Richards Also laboured with me two months which was a great Blessing 
unto me as well as many Saints for he has passed through a great school of experiance and 
learned much wisdom & sound Judjment which is readily manifest in all Councils & conferences 
in which we have set together. 

I Also Baptized one at Ledbury & confirmed him & ordained him to the Office of a Priest Robert 
Gomery. 

Business of the day: I Baptized 6, Br Clark 2. Elder Richards & myself confirmed 9 Ordained 
one Priest Blessed 4 children walked to Ledbury & spent the night. Distance 8 m. 

23d Elder Richard & myself parted with the Saints in Ledbury & took Coach & rode to 
Worcester. 16 miles. From thence to {Birmingham}. 24 miles. This is the first time I ever visited 
Birmingham which is the centre of England. After spending several hours together in visiting the 
city we took the parting hand with each other & Elder Richard took the cars for Manchester & I 
took Coach for West Bromich 5 miles & called upon Sister Mary Packard at Mrs Duffrell Church 
Tavern West Bromich. She informed me that Elder Turley was in another part of the town & had 
commenced Baptizing. Sister Packard accompanied me to Brother John Robinson Grits Green 
near Bromwich. Thes friends received me kindly but informed me that Elder Turley had gone to 
Binningham. } I wrote him a letter to return & see me. 

I had not been in the house but a short time before two men came in full of wrath & anger & 
brought a blind girl & demanded me to heal her & work a miracle that they might have a sign to 
make them believe. After telling them what the character was of those that sought signs one of 
them by the name of John Hadley brought much railing accusation against me & rejected my 
testimony. 

Elder Turley had been preaching hear three weeks & had commenced Baptizing. He had 


Page303 




Baptized 9 persons. Several came in in the evening to inquire into these things & 4 offered 
themselves for Baptism. I spent the night with George Murall. 46 m. 

24th I had an interview with Elder Turley. I was truly happy to see him. He read a letter to me 
that he had received from his wife Containing many important things. Amoung the rest sayes that 
Elder Orson Hide & John E Page were set apart at the conference in Commerce Illinois in the 
United States on the 6th Day of April 1840 to go to Palestine to visit the Jews there &c. & will 
Call upon us on their way. The letter also stated that my wife Phebe W Woodruff was at the 
conference, & in good health. 

I preached in the evening at west Bromwich at the house of Br Walker. 4 were Baptized by Elder 
Turley which we Jointly Confirmed. I spent the night with Mr Murretl. 

25th I spent the day in West Bromwich & preached in the evening. One was Baptized by Elder 
Turley. We ordained one Priest & one Teacher. I spent the night with Elder Turley at Enoch 
Wood. 

26th We took the Omnibus at the Junktion & rode to Lane end at the Staffordshire Potterries Via 
Wolverhampton & Stafford. 38 miles. It would be a difficult task to give a description of the 
Country from Birmingham to Wolverhampton. I never saw any thing that comes so near the 
description of the Lake of fire & Brimstone Spoken of by the Revelator John as several miles of 
that country for it is one universal mass of coal pits & Iron mines & while thousands of human 
beings are under ground at work in the midst of fire, Brimston, sulpher, Gas & cole &c. the 
whole face of the earth & heavens air & horizon men, women, & houses, are filled & Coverd 
with the composition of fire, cinders, Gas, sut, & smooke of their miserry & labours that 
assended up out of their piles, firnesses, & pitts from day to day & from year to year. In fine, it is 
more like Hell in comparrison than any place I have as yet visited. 

(Uncommon) A boy by the name of Thomas Skelsey 1 5 years of age is becomeing quite noted 
between Wolverhampton & Burslem by following the coaches or omnibus on foot & keeps pace 
with them the whole distance. He runs about 40 miles in 6 hours. He has run through & returned 
in one day making 80 miles in about 12 hours. When he gets weary he takes hold of a strap on 
the hind end of the Coach with his hands but runs as usual. On one occasion he run 14 miles in 
one hour & fife minutes. He is a poor boy & his ownly object is to get a living by recieving what 
money the passengers saw fit to give him about one shilling per day. He does this running with 
bare feet on accadamized rodes. 

We Called upon the Saints at Lane end. From thence to Stoke & felt truly to rejoice to once more 
meet with the Saints in this region. We Preached in the evening at Stoke. Had an interview with 
Elder Cordon. Spent the night at Stoke. Distance of the day 40 mile. 

27th :)■ I had an interview with Elder G. A. Smith & I wrote a letter with Br G. A. Smith & T. 
Turley to President Joseph Smith jr. I spent the day in Burslem. I herd a Letter wrote read from 
Sister Tailor in Commerce giving an account of the Conference in that place. 70 were Baptized. 


Page304 




Elders Hide & Page were set apart to visit the Jews at Palestine. The President of the United 
States had rejected the Petition of the Latter Day Saints to have their wrongs redressed, & as the 
Judges, Governors, & President of the United States had rejected the Saints & turned a deaf ear 
to their cries, the Saints have now appealed to the highest tribunal even the Court of HEAVEN & 
called upon God as their deliverer. May the Lord spedily answer their Prayers I Pray. I spent the 
night at Mr Battleby. 

28th Sunday We held a Camp meeting at Stoke. We had a large Congregation. Elders G. A. 

Smith T Turly, & A Cordon Preached in the fore part of the day & Elders W. Woodruff, H. 
Glover & G A Smith preached in the afternoon. 2 were Baptized & Confirmed. 2 were healed by 
the laying on of hands. Spent the night with G. A. Smith at Sister Battlebys. 6 miles. 


29th Minutes of a conference held at Hanly, Staffordshire, England, on the 29th Day of June 
1840. 


The various Churches of the Staffordshire Potteries met in Conference at the preaching room in 
Hanly on the 29th of June 1840. Meeting was called to order by Elder A Cordon. Elder George A 
Smith was chosen President. Elder Alfred Cordon was chosen Clerk. Meeting opened by Prayer. 

Moved by Elder W Woodruff seconded by A Cordon that Isaac Whittaker be Ordained an Elder 

Also James Lockett Samuel Johnson 

William Bradbury John Rowley 

Samuel Hancock Orsmond Shaw be Ordained Priests 
& John Hulme Charles Stephenson 

John Warrail be Ordained Teachers 

Carried Unanimously 

The above persons were then Ordained under the hands of Elders W Woodruff & George A 
Smith. 

The President then Called upon the Official members to represent each individual branch. 

James S Walker Prst. Represented the Church at Tunstall 


E P T D 

5 members 0 2 10 

Wm. Bradbury Prst. Rep Bursleto 

& Hanly 6 1 members 3 6 2 1 

Wm. Smith prst. Rep church of 


Page305 





New Castle 

Wm. Hulme Priest Rep Stoke 
Issac Whittaker Elder Rep 
Lane End 

Also Cheadle 

Richard Rushton Prt. Rep 
Leek 

Total 


13 members 
17 members 

35 members 
1 member 

36 members _ 
168 members 


0 110 
0 2 2 0 

10 0 0 

0 0 0 0 

0 2 0 1 
4 13 6 2 


It was Moved & Carried that the above Branches be organized into a Conference Called the 
Conference of the Staffordshire Potteries. 


Moved & Carried that James S. Walker Priest 


take charge of the church at 
Williams Vernon Priest 
William Bradbury Priest 
William Smith Priest 
William Hulme Priest 
Elder Isaac Whittaker 


Tuns tall 

Burslem & Hanly 
Assistant 
New Castle 
Stoke 
Lane End 


Richard Rushton Priest take charge of the Church at Leek. 


Moved & Carried that Elder Alfred Cordon be the Presiding Elder over the churches comprising 
this conference. Also Orsmond Shaw be the Standing clerk for the Same. 

Moved & Carried that Elder Alford Cordon be a delegate to represent this Conference to the 
general Conference at Manchester on the 6th day of July next. 


Moved & Carried that the Delegate present the minutes of this Conference to the general 
Conference. 


The minutes were then read & accepted by the Conference. 

Moved & Carried that this Conference adjurne to the 28th Day of September next. 
Conference closed by Prayer by the President. 


George A Smith President 
Alfred Cordon Clerk 


Business of the day. I jointly ordained 1 Elder 6 Priest & 3 Teachers & confirmed 2. 1 set in 
council with the Officers after conference & also Preached at night to the Saints. Spent the night 
at Sister Battleby. 4 miles. 

30th I walked to Burslem. From thence to Hanly & attended Meeting. Elder Turley preached 


Page306 




<— >. I spent the night at Sister Battlebys. 5 mi. 


July 

July 1st I rode in company with Elders Smith & Turley to Manchester whare I found Elders B 
Young, H. C. Kimble P. P. Pratt W. Richards at 149 oldham road Manchester. Distance 35. We 
had a Pleasent time together. Elder Richards & myself spent the night together at Brother 
Brewshers No 4 Gray cr. 

2d I spent the day at 149 Oldham road in writing. I was informed of a remarkable vision of Sister 
Ann Booth which I have written on the following page. I spent the night at Br John Walkers 
Cookson Strt No 10. 


A Remarkable Vision 


I Ann Booth wife of Robert Booth of the Town of Manchester England had the following vision 
on the 12th Day of March in the year of our Lord 1840. 


Being Carried away in a vision to the place of departed souls I saw {12} prision one above 
another vary large & builded of Soiled Stone. On ariving at the door of the uppermost prision, I 
beheld one of the 12 Apostles of the Lamb who had been martered in America Standing at the 
door of the prision holding a key with which he unlocked the door & went in & I followed him. 

He appeared to be of a large size thick set, Dark hair Dark eyes & eyebrows of a smileing 
Countenance, & on his head was a Crown of Gold or sumthing brighter. He was Dressed in a 
long white robe with the sleeves plaited from the Sholder to the hand. Upon his breast were four 
stars *(50) * * * (51)apparrently like gold and a golden gridle about his loins. His feet were bear 
from above the ancles downwards, and his hands were also bear. As he entered the prision he 
seemed to stand about 3 feet from the floor (which was of Marble) as if the place was not worthy 
for him to stand upon. A vary brilient and glorious light Serrounded him while the rest of the 
Prision was dark. But his light was peculiar to himself & did not reflect upon others who were in 
the Prison who were surrounded with a gloom of darkness. 

On the right hand near the door stood John Westley who on seeing the glorious Personage raised 
both hands & shouted Glory, honor, Praise, & Power be asscribed unto God & the Lamb forever 
& forever. Deliverance has Come. The Apostle then Commenced to Preach the Baptism of 
repentance for remission of Sins and the gift of the Holy Ghost by the laying on of hands, when 
the hunderds of Prisoners gave a shout with a loud voice Saying Glory be to God forever & ever. 

The marble floor was then removed & a river of water Clear as Gristle seemed to flow in its 


Page307 





place. The Apostle then Called to John Westley by name who came forward quickley and both 
went down into the water & he Baptized him & coming up out of the water he laid hands on him 
for the gift of the Holy Ghost at the same time ordaining him to the Priesthood of Aaron. 

The Apostle then retired to the place whare he stood at first and John Westley then proceded to 
Baptize A man by the name of Killham the leader of the New Connection of Methodist and next 
John Madison & then Scott, & John Tongue. The three latter were Methodist Preachers with 
whom I had formerly been acquainted. The next he Baptized was my Grandfather (Edmund 
Whitehead) & the next was my uncle (John Whitehead) & the next was my sister (Elizabeth 
Oiland) & next Joseph Lancashire & next Samuel Robinson & then next was my own Mother. 
All these had lived & died Methodist & I had been personally acquainted with them all. And after 
this he Baptized all the prisoners amounting to many hundreds. 

After they were all Baptized the Apostle laid his hands on them & Confirmed them evry one. 
Then instantly the darkness dispersed & they were all Surrounded & envelloped in A Brilient 
light such as surrounded the Apostle at the first & they all lifted their voices with one accord 
giving glory to God for deliverance. 

My Grandfather then Came to me & blessed me saying the Lord bless the forever & ever. Art 
thou come to see us deliverd? My mother then came to me & clasped me in her arms & kissed 
me three times & said the Lord Allmighty bless thee forever & ever. 

I then awoke out of the Vision & felt so happy & overjoyed that I knew not how to remain in bed. 
But waking my husband we arose & taking the Bible I opened Providentially to the text Isaiah 
24th they shall be gathered together &c. More & more astonished, I again opened the Bible to the 
1st of St John The light shineth in darkness &c. And again the third time I opened it & 
immediately cast my eyes upon the 3d chapter of Peter 18, 19, 20 speaking of the spirits in 
Prison. Being before ignorant of these texts & opening upon each Providentially I was 
asstonished beyound measure. 

I would further state that at the time I had this vision I had never herd of the Death of David W. 
Patten whom I have since learned was one of the Twelve Apostles of the Latter Day Saints in 
America & was slain in the late persecution in the fall of 1838. But in the Vision I knew it was an 
Apostle who had been slain in America. 

Perhaps many will think lightly of this vision But I hereby Sollemnly testify that I actaully Saw & 
herd in a vision what I have here related & I give my name & set my seal in witness to the Same 
well knowing that I must stand before the Judgment Seat of Christ & answer for this Testimony. 

SIGNS IN THE LAST DA YS 

On the 9th of Aug 1840 their was a sign in the Moon. The people at Great Marlvem Hills in 
Herefordshire Eng took a view of it through their glasses. The appearance of the moon was as if 
it were painted red & while looking at it one part of it fell in peices & the appearance of a soldier 


Page308 




was seen in the moon with a white feather in his Cap. The Number that was on his Cap was vary 
plain & a figure 8 on his shouldJer. They saw his firelock & gun ready for Battle & his dress was 
clearly seen. 


On the 7th of October 1840 while the man that tends the gas lights at the Carpenters Hall was 
lighting the Chandaliers for a publick discussion 12 of them burst in peaces. Elder O Pratt stood 
beside of me at the time. The man said he had never seen such a thing before. This was to light 
the Hall to accomodate Mr Berry who pledged himself to prove the Book of mormon fals & 
water Baptism not essential unto Salvation. 

A Dream. On the 25th of Oct I fel asleep & Dreamed I was at my Fathers house in Fannington 
Con. My father had Caught some fish. I thought I would go to fishing to. I went under the saw 
mill & the trench was full of pickerel. Father shut down the gates & the fish started to run down 
stream with the water. I run down to the bottom of the Island jumped into the trench, & caught a 
great many large fish with my hands as they came down. I then went to the mill & Brother 
Asahel Woodruff who has been dead two years came & broght many fish & showed me which he 
caught in the trench. We then commenced eating peaches with other friends & talked about & 
rejoiced in the glories of IMMORTAFITY. 

"The Rev. R. Aitken A.M. of Fondon says, As the prophecies concerning the birth, life, & death, 
of our Ford were Utterly fulfilled at his first Coming, to the division of his garments and to the 
casting of lots upon his vestures so evry prophecy & promise respecting his second Coming, 
throne, kingdom, reign judgment, power, with the Changes predicted in the world, elements, 
nature, condition of animals and the like, Shall be literally accomplished." Truth Una, Kila, Shile, 
Oshena. 

July 3d In Company with the Twelve I visited the musiam at Manchester England which was an 
interesting sight to behold. Every kind of Beasts, Animals, fowles & birds fish & evry creeping 
thing, serpents, & all things that live on land or in the sea. Also evry kind of fruit & minerals ores 
& Precious stones. 

We saw the greatest Dimond in the world that has as yet ever been discoverd. It was nearly the 
size of a goose egg. It cost £122,000,000 one hundred & twenty & two million Fbs Stirling. This 
was not the dimond itself but its representation in a cristol stone. I also saw one Animal 16 feet 
high. 

After spending several hours in visiting this place I then visited the printing office of W. R 
Thomas 61 Spring gardens. I saw them print a form of the Hymn Book printed by the Fatter Day 
Saints. I dined at Br Rigby, 149 Oldham road. 

4th of July I took an interesting walk with the Brethren through the Zoologicall gardins near 
Manchester. When we returned to Manchester I found Elders Kington & Browet at the Star 


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Office. I spent the night at the Star Office. 6 m. 

5th Sunday I met with the Elders & Saints & a large Congregation of the Citizens of Manchester 
at the Joiners Hall for public worship. The Saints have hired this hall. It will seat an assembly of 
about two thousand. I preached in the fore part of the day. In the afternoon I communed with 4 or 
500 Saints. The whole Congregation would number near 1,000. Elders Hadlock, Kington, 
Fielding, Cordon, & others testified to the Congregatior. Elder Cordon preached in the evening to 
a large congregation. Several were baptized. 

Spent the night with P P Pratt. 


MINUTES OF THE GENERAL CONFERENCE 


A general Conference of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints was held in the 
Carpenters Hall Manchester on the 6th day of July 1840, It being the 1st day of the 4th month 
1 1th year of the church when the following officers of the travling high council were present Viz. 
Elder B Young P P Pratt Wd. Woodruff J. Taylor Wd. Richards H. C. Kimball & G A Smith 
other officers, viz., high Priest, 5; elders 19; Priest 15, Teachers 1 1, & Deacons 3. 

The meeting being Called to order a little after 10 oclock by Elder W Clayton. It was moved by 
Elder Young seconded by Elder Woodruff that Elder Pratt be chosen President of the Conference 
which was Carried Unanimously. Elder W Clayton was chosen Clerk. The meeting was opened 
by prayer by the President &c. *(52) 

After which there was 41 Churches represented in England & Scotland containing members & 
Officers as follows. Officers are included in the first Number given. 


Churches 4 1 

Saints 2,513 

Elders 56 

Priest 126 

Teachers 67 

Deacons 13 

Sum Total of Official members 256 

Increase for the last three months is (see April 15th) 

Saints 842 

Elders 22 

Priest 74 

Teacher 23 


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Deacons 

Total 


5 

124 


Moved & Carried that Elders Thomas Kington, Alfred Cordon, & Thomas Smith be ordained 
High Priest And John Albiston, John Blezard, William Berry, John Sanders, John Parkinson, 
James Worsley, & John Allen be ordained Elders & Joseph Slinger George Walker John Smith 
Robert Williams, William Black John Melling & John Swindlehurst be ordained Priest. 

The above named persons were Ordained Under the hands of Elders Young & Richards. 

Much other business was transacted & the meeting Closed by Blessing by Elder Young. 

{P P Pratt President} 
{Wm. Clayton Clerk} 


Elders B. Young & P. P. Pratt ordained a man to the office of an Elder in the Anny of the English 
about the last of June who is going direct to the east Indies & will carry the gospel to that People. 
He Sailed in good spirits & determined to preach the gospel to the people of the East Indies. He 
set sail about the [ ] of July. May the Lord bless him & make him an Instrument of doing 

much good. July 18th. 


Elders G. A. Smith & A. Cordon Ordained William J. Barret of Burslem England 17 years of age 
to the Office of an Elder on the 1 1 day of July & he set Sail at London for South Australia a 
voyage of 16,000 miles on the 17th of July 1840 to preach the gospel to that far distant people. 
South Australia is a new colony settled by the English now about 10,000 souls & rapidly 
increasing. 

Thus doors are opening in all parts of the world for the rapid spread of the fulness of the gospel. 
We received a letter yesterday from Elder Barret which he wrote Just before he Sailed. He 
exhorted us to be faithful & Pray for him. He was clothed with the power of the Priesthood & 
the Holy Ghost the spirit of Prophecy & Revelation & the Importance of his mission. He testifyed 
in the name of God that he should return to Zion bringing his sheaves with him. He took our 
address & J. Smith jr. in the U.S. & says he will write. O Lord bless him. 

July 7th I met with the Twelve & many officers in council at the Star Office whare much 
important business was transacted & council given. A place of labour in the vineyard was 
assigned to each officer untill the next Conference. I dined in Company with Br & Sister 
Richards at Brother Bewsher No 4 Gray street. We then met the 12 in front of the Infirmary & we 
walk to a paper storehouse whare Elders Young & Pratt had made a Contract for Paper sufficent 
to Print 5,000 copies of the Book of Mormon. After seeing the Paper weighed & Paid for which 
amounted to £107 we then walked to Br Millers & eat & drank with about 20 Elders which was a 


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plesant time. We then walked to the Star Office & the quorum of the Twelve sat in council & 
voted that P. P. Pratt might go to New York & get his family & Elder Theadore Turley Should 
lead a Company of Saints from England to Commerce in the USA. & after some other business 
the Council adjourned untill tomorrow morning to meet at this room. I spent the night with Elder 
Fielding at Sister Ann Booth. <Distance of the day> 6 miles. 

8th } I wrote a letter to Phebe. <1 spoke of some thing I should send her by Elder Taylor.> I spent 
the Day in Manchester & the night with Elder Tailor at Brother Greens. 

9th I wrote a letter for the Star. Spent the night at Br Walker at No 10 cookson street. 

10th f f j: I wrote 4 Letters directed to the following persons Ezra Carter, Eunice Woodruff, Ilus 
F. Carter, Lucian R. Foster and forwarded to New York by P. P. Pratt who was going to New 
York to Bring his family to England. I spent the night with Elder Kimble at 76 Loom Street at 
Allise Whipp. 

1 1th I spent the day mostly at the Star Office in writing. <1 purchased several small articles to 
send to Phebe.> In the evening I assisted Elder B. Young & several of the Sisters in doing Up 
(325) of the 3d No of the Millennial Star which was sent to Liverpool for P P. Pratt to take with 
him to New York. 

12th I attended meeting at the Joiners Hall Manchester with the Saints. B. Young preached in the 
morning. We communed with the Saints in the afternoon & I preached in the evening. We 
confirmed 4 & Blessed 2 children. I spent the night 148 oldham road. 

July 13th {Letter from Phebe W W} I received a lengthy & interesting Letter from Phebe W. 
Woodruff from which I made some extracts to be inserted in the Star which will appear in the 4th 
No. 

My wife informs me in this Letter that the Rev Mr Bogart a Methodist Preacher who was the 
Leader of the Missouri mob in the persecution of the Saints, has Shot a man during the Election 
who died in few hours. Mr Bogart has had his trial & is to be hung on the 4th day of July next. 

Also that an Indian with his wife & daughter has embraced the fulness of the gospel & Been 
Baptized in Commerce. The Indian is an Interpreter of six tribes, & the Indian says all of those 
tribes will receive the work, & two Elders with their families (Brothers Butler & Emmit) have 
gone out among the Indians on a mission &c. As this is the first commencment of the work 
among the Lamanites I Pray God the Eternal Father in the name of Jesus Christ to roll on his 
work among that people & turn ther captivity & spedily overshadow them with the light of the 
fulness of the gospel of Jesus Christ. 

Roll on O ye mighty wheel of the Kingdom of God untill ye becom a mountain & fill the whole 
earth. Let the day which has now broke close no more untill Judah rejoices & Israel is made glad 
& Ephraim’s Nobles are of himself & his Govemour procede forth out of the midst of him. Let 
the prayer of the widow, & the cry of the Orphan assend into the ears of the Lord of Sabaoth. Let 


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the heavens witness their tears & record them on high, untill the Almighty shall come out of his 
hiding place & avenge those widows & orphens of the spilt Blood of their Martered husbands & 
Fathers which was shed by the Iron hand of the Inhabitants of Missouri for the word of God & 
the testimony of Jesus Christ. Let the American Nation spedily learn that their is still a God in 
Israel who holds the destinies of all nations in his own hand & at whose command goes forth the 
issues of life & death. 

0 Lord Cloth thy Saints with Salvation & thine Elders with the Power of God. Give thy Prophets 
wisdom, means, & power, to esstablish Zion & her stakes to be throne down no more forever; 
Make thy Apostles men after thine own heart & swift witnesses to the nations of the earth. Let 
Council, wisdom, & the fear of God rest upon them untill all thy purposes are accomplished 
concerning them which thou wilt Deign to perfonn! ! 

14th Sarah Emma is two years old this day. May the Lord Preserve my wife & Children from 
Sickness & Death Untill my return. O Lord I commit them into thy hands, feed, Clothe, & 
Comfort them & thine shall be the glory. 

1 spent the day in Manchester, in company with Elder Young I took supper at Br John Smiths. <1 
went to the city and bought Phebe a dress, for Emma a dress, Wilford> 3 <yards of flannel and> 
22 <dollars which I left with Elder [-] to send to my wife [ — ].> I preached in the evening at Br 
Blacks & spent the night at the Star Office with Elder Young. I had an interview in the afternoon 
with sister Richards. } I wrote a letter to Phebe & sent it with the <parcel and [goods?]>. 

15th I Parted with Elder Young & the Saints in Manchester & rode to Burslem. Had an interview 
with Elder G A Smith & Cordon & the Saints. Spent the night at Bursleto. I Brought 110 Stars 
for A Cordon & 550 for T. Kington & about 100 hymn Books. 35 miles. 

16th I visited Stoke & Lane End. The Saints were Joyful to see me or manifested themselves so. I 
Preached at Hanly & Baptized one. *(53) I was Presented with a small Splended China Box as A 
Present from the Saints in Stoke upon Trent England <with the following inscribing: Phebe and 
Wilford Woodruff. A present from Stoke Trent England. It was worth about> 3. <The names 
were spelled wrong and I had them altered. They were spelled as follows:> Willeard, Pheab, 
Woodrooff. <We supplied the jeweler for it. I also have> 3 <china [-].> One <to Phebe, > one <to 
Sara> one <to Emma or myself and four thimbles. They were from Kurt and Sally.> 10 m. 

17th } I wrote two letters to Phebe to go in a bundle of things. We received a letter from Elder 
William J. Barret of Bursleto who is now at London. He was Ordained an Elder under the hands 
of Elders G A Smith & A Cordon. He this day sets sail at London to carry the gospel to South 
Australia a voyage of 16,000 miles. He was in good spirits & felt the power of God & the spirit 
of his mission. He took our address & J Smith Jr. & sayes he will write, as soon as he 
esstablishes his mission. 

/*(54) {S[arah?]| Sarah Emma died this day./ 


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18th } I wrote two letters one to Elder Turley & one to the Saints from fox Islands at Montrose. I 
walked to Leek in company with Elder G A Smith. Leek is the Metropolis of the Morelands. We 
saw a large stone Cross in the Church yard erected many centuries since in honor to some of the 
Cardinal. In 1645 the rebels of Scotland broke the head of it of & built a fire around it & the 
smoke of it still remains. 10. 

19th Sunday I Preached in Leek. John Jones came to oppose us & his carriage broke down & 
flung him in the mud. He came to meeting but the Lord shut his mouth & he could not utter a 
word but left the room as soon as I closed. Elder Smith Preached in the evening & 6 were 
Baptized under his hands. We ordained one Priest & one Teacher. Several were healed by the 
laying on of hands. I then walked to Burslem & spent the night with Br Simpson. I saw a letter 
direct from South Australia which spoke well of the country. <Distance of the day> 10 m. 

20th I done up my bundle with much pains to sent to Phebe by Elder Turley. I enclosed 5 
Sovereigns and a china box>. } I wrote a letter to Elder Young. 

21st Elder Smith & myself sent our bundle to Manchester to the Care of Elder B. Young. We 
Also parted with the Saints at Burslem & took coach & rode to Birmingham whare we spent the 
night & it was not unprofitable to us in many respect. 

We attended the Seventeenth Anniversary of the Birmingham Auxilliary to the Baptist 
Missionary Society at the town Hall on tuesday evening July 21 18[40?]. This Binningham town 
Hall is one of the most Splended buildings in Europe. It Contained the largest Organ in England 
if not in the world. It was 52 feet in hight. It contained 3,000 Pipes & 63 stops. The pipes were 
from 3 feet square inside down to the smallest dimentions. 

The hall would seat about 5,000 & it was full. The chair was taken at six oclock. The best talents 
in Europe were gatherd together & displayed on this occasion. The object of the meeting was to 
get money & send missionarys. 

We left the house about 10 oclock & called upon John Turley. Here I had an interview with the 
Saints from West Bromwich. I took lodgings near Mr Wm. Turley. Charlotte Turley is worthy & 
is ready to be Baptized. Distance of the day 45 m. 

22d We took Coach & rode [to] Worcester. From thence to Ledbury. Elder G. A. Smith remained 
in Ledbury & Preached. I walked to Dymock held a metting & spent the night. 45 miles. 

23d We walked to Frooms hill & found the saints strong in the faith & increasing fast in numbers 
& preparing to emigrate with the Saints in the United States. 12 mile. 

24th } I received a letter from Father & Mother & Sister Eunice Woodruff which I was truly glad 
to get. I found Brother & Sister Benbow strong in the faith & willing to make evry sacrafice in 
their power for the gathering of the Saints. We had an interview with Elder Kington. We spent 
the day at Br Benbows. Had an interesting meeting. 


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25th } I wrote a letter to Bishop Ripley & Confirmed one person & administered to 6 that were 
sick. I walked to Moorends Cross & spent the night. 4 mile. [] I received a letter from Elder W 
Richards. 

26th Sunday I walked to ridgway cross & Preached & confinned 8, Blessed 8 children, & lade 
hands upon many that were sick. I walked to Moorends Cross & Preached & confirmed 2. 1 
returned to Ridgway Cross & Communed with the Saints & had an interesting time which will be 
the last time that I break Bread unto many of those Saints, as they are about to emegrate & gather 
with the Saints in Commerce & Montrose. A Company of about 50 is about to start for America 
from Herefordshire England about 40 of which will go by the free charity & Philanthropy of 
Elder John Benbow. I walked after meeting to Froom Hill & spent the night. <Distance of the 
day> 9 miles. 

27th } I wrote a letter to Elders Young & Richards. I Preached at Frooms Hill & confinned 2 & 
lade hands upon many that were sick. Elder Smith Preached at Standly Hill. 

28th } I wrote a Letter to Elder Taylor & wrote a recommend for Elder John Benbow & Jane 
Benbow. I spent the day in writing. 

29th } I wrote a letter to Phebe which I sent by the hand of Sister Benbow. I walked to Br Fidoe 
& Preached at Br Pullins & returned to Frooms Hill & spent the night. Distans 4 miles. 

30th I walked to Ledbury in company with Br G. A. Smith & spent the night at Br Pullins. 7 
miles. 

31st Elder Smith & myself took the dimentions of Ledbury Church. Found it 200 feet long 100 
broad covering 1/2 acre & occupying one acre. The Tower was seperat from the main building. 
Was 40 feet square at the base 260 feet in highth. We walked to Keysend street & to Turkey hall. 
10 m. One window cost £200 or $1,000. 


August 

Aug 1st We walked to Haw Cross & to Dymock & spent the night. 8 miles. 

2d Sunday I Preached twice in Dymock & Elder G. A. Smith Preached in Ledbury. I am happy to 
leam on our return to the Churches in Herefordshire & adjoining Country that the work of God 
[is] rolling on rapidly upon evry hand. The Elders & Priest are universally blessed in ther 
ministry in this part of the vineyard. They are Baptizing daily. Elder Richardson has Baptized 
about 40 since his arival & Elder Key about 20. Elders Kington, Browett, Benbow, Cheese, 
Clark, & others have Baptized many. We have Baptized 40 this day in different parts of the 
vineyard in this region. There has been about 250 Baptized in this region since the Conference 
which we held in this region. / {repetition}/ The churches here now number about 800 all of 
which have embraced the gospel within five months from the Church of England & all other 
Protestant churches. We have Baptized Several Clarks of the Church of England & [.]osm of the 


Page315 




leading Musicians. 

Elder G. A. Smith & myself have not Baptized any ourselves since we came this last time But we 
Preach the Gospel, Council, & lay on hands for confirmation but call upon others to Baptize. 

We are looking for Elder Kimball evry day & as soon as he arives we shall take our leave of the 
Saints here & go to the city of LONDON & warn the inhabitants thereof & Preach the gospel 
unto them. I Pray the Lord to send the Angel of his presence before us & prepare the way that 
much good may be done in the name of the Lord. I feel thankful to our Heavenly father for 
opening such a spedy & effectual door in this region of country. I confirmed one at Dymock & 
spent the night at Elder Kingtons. 

3d I walked to Ledbury & met with Br Smith. } I wrote two letters one to Elder Young, & the 
other to Turley. I forwarded two Blank license to Elder Young for licensing rooms to preach in. 
We spent the night in Ledbury. [] I received a letter from Elder Young. 

Aug. 4th We walked to Froores Hill. Found the Saints in good spirits & health & the work 
Progressing. Spent the night at Elder Benbows. 8 miles. 

5th } I wrote a letter for the Mill Star & one to Young & Richards. Elder Smith & myself 
Prea[ched?] at Frooms hill & confirmed 3. We have had warm or hot sunshine for several days 
which is almost the first weather we have had that has appeared like summer for we have had a 
cold wet season. 

6th *(55) I sealed up a package of 42 letter & my Journal from Montrose to England with 1 & 3 
No of the Star to send by Elder Turley to Mrs Woodruff. It contained all of my Corresponding 
letters since the 8th of Aug 1839. We spent the day & night at Frooms hill. 

7th A pleasant day. We spent the day visiting the Saints. We confirmed the Parish Church Clark 
& his wife who had been Baptized & Joined the Saints. His name was Robert Hill of Canfroom 
Parish. ^ I wrote a letter to Elder Turley. 5 miles. 

8th *(56) One year ago this day I left my family in Montrose to take a mission to England. I 
Started with Elder Tailor & crossed the Missisippi river in a Canoe sick with the ague & without 
money. But I am now in the South part of England in company with Elder G. A. Smith & 
enjoying good health & I pray the Lord to give good health to my wife & Children. 

} I wrote a letter to Col Lyman Wight jointly with Br Smith. ^ I also wrote a letter to Elder Wm. 
Smith. 

/9th Hold Camp Meeting with G A Smith & Turley./ 

10th } I wrote 8 Letters 2 to Phebe, <sent 1/2 soverign> 1 to Epraim Luce, one to Nathaniel 
Thomas one to Margarett Smoot all enclosed in a wrapper to Phebe, 1 to William Benbow one to 
Brigham Young & one to Eunice Woodruff. Elders Smith Turley & myself Preached in the 


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evening at Standly Hill & had a good time. We spent the night at Froores Hill. 

Aug 1 1th <Elder Benbow loaned Elder Turley> 20 <pounds and gave me> 15 <for our London 
mission.> We took the parting hand with Elder Turley who Started for Liverpool to prepare a 
ship for about 80 Saints to emegrate to America 40 of which Elder J Benbow takes with him & 
pays their expenses to America out of Mercy to the poor Saints. Let the Blessings of Almighty 
God rest upon him forever & ever. He Gave Elder Turley £100 to Secure the Passage of the 
Saints. We took the parting hand with Brother & Sister Benbow & the Saints at Froms Hill to see 
them No more untill I meet them in NAUVOO U.S.A. as they are about to emegrat there. We 
walked to Ledbury, & spent the night. } I wrote a letter to B Young & one to Elder Glover. 7. 

12th We walked to Dymock & found Elder Kimball at Elder Kingtons. He had Come from 
Manchester to meet Elder Smith & myself for the purpose of Going to the city of London. Elder 
Kimball had two letters direct from America one from his wife & the other from father John 
Smith to his son George A. Smith. 

Sister Kimball informs us of the Death of Bishop EDWARD PATRIDGE who DIED May 27th 
1840 & his oldest Daughter Died the week before. The Loss of Bishop Patridge will be greatly 
felt by the Church. He is one of the wisest & best men of the Last Days. He was like Nathaniel of 
old in whom there is no guile. He has passed through much Persecution for the word of God & 
the testimony of Jesus Christ. 

In 1833 he was Imprisioned & besmeared with tar & feathers. In 1839 he was again Imprisioned 
& passed through the great Persecution of that year & he has been a member & Bishop of the 
Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints almost from the Beginning. But he has now gone to 
rest & to receive his Crown of Glory. 

hhh Father John Smith Infonned us in his letter of some remarkable Signs that lately appeared 
among the Saints viz on the 14th of June 1840. On Sunday five <[-]> men members of the 
Church saw two men ride across the Missisippi River from Montrose to Nauvoo. One man was 
on a white horse & the other on a bay or red horse. The waters parted under their feet & fire flew 
when their tails moved & they observed the clothing of the men. A few month previous to this a 
man was seen walking across the river by several believers & others. The Unbeleivers said 
Probably a mormon was going across to steal sumthing. This is the effect that Signs have on 
those that Seek them. 

I walked in company with Elders Kimball & G. A. Smith to Br Benjamin Hill at Turkey Hall in 
Glostershire. We preached at Lime Street. <Distance of the day> 12 m. 

Mrs Woodruff wrote a short epistle in father Smiths letter. 

13th We walked to the Leigh & held a meeting with the Saints. Elders Kimble, Smith, & myself, 
all spoke to the people. We had an interesting time. After meeting I Baptized 4 & jointly 
Confirmed 7. We spent the night at Elder Browetts. 7 miles. 


Page3 1 7 




14th I spent the day at the Leigh. In the evening we met the Saints at Elder Browetts for a council 
meeting. We had an interesting time. Elder Smith spoke first & recommended the Saints to spend 
5 minutes each day in getting an Idea in their minds from the scriptures & in one year they would 
have 365 new Ideas in their minds which would form a fountain of Intelligence & knowledge 
which would benefit themselves & mankind. After meeting 2 were Baptized & we lade [hands] 
on one man & confirmed him & healed several that were sick. We spent the night at Elder 
Browetts. 

15th We spent the day in the Leigh writing. I wrote } 3 Letters one to Elder Whittaker one to Br 
John Rowley one to Brother Hume } also one to Young & Richards & one to G. Simpson. We 
Baptized & confirmed one. 

16th Sunday We held a Camp meeting at the Leigh. Elders Kimball & Smith & myself spoke 
both in the forenoon & afternoon. A large congregation was together. We Baptized 4 & 
confirmed 7, ordained one Elder & two Priest. John Horlick was ordained an Elder. George & 
William HarJick was ordained Priests. The two latter had come 12 miles to received the work. 
After they were Baptized we confirmed & ordained them at the same time. We communed with 
the saints & had an interesting time. 

17th We took the parting hand with the Saints at the Leigh & rode in company with Elder 
Browett to Cheltenham & called upon Sister Clark at Mrs Smiths No 3 Union St. We then called 
upon Br Thomas Browett at No 1 1 Hanover St. We then called at the Temperance Hotel & spent 
the night. Pop of Cheltenham 40,000. 5 mile. 

AUG 18th 1840 {London} 

We took coach at Cheltenham 9 A.M & rode 40 miles through a level country having quite the 
appearance of the Illinois & Missouri prairies occupied altogether for farming. We past three 
villages & thousands of acres of wheat & barley fields in the midst of harvest part of which was 
cut & part was standing. 

We past through Oxfordshire & in about 8 miles of the Oxford University the Largest & most 
noted University in the world which consists of 20 colliges endowed & five Halls not endowed at 
which place all Europeans finish their studies, before they consider themselves perfect schollars. 

We saw vast herds of cattle sheep & deer &c. We passed in sight of Stow & the wychwood forest 
containing 7,500 acres of timber in which thousands of cattle feed. It is also a noted place of 
resort for sportsman to hunt Deer & hares &c. 

We arived at the farington road Station & took the cars for London at 1 oclock PM. Passed 
through Relicks & had a plain view of old ruins, & as we passed we also had a fair view of the 
splended winser Castle. 

After travling 70 miles on the rail road we were landed at the city of LONDON at 4 oclock, 


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making 110 miles from Cheltenham to London which we travled in 7 hours & did not stop more 
than two minutes at any time. 

We rode to the centre of the city. We then left the Coach & walked across London Bridge into 
the Borough & called upon (Mrs W. Allgood 19 King street Borough, London) which is Mr 
Allgood’s Address. She is own[ly] sister to Elder Theadore Turley wife. She treated us with 
kindness gave us some refreshment & then directed us to a publick house whare I wrote f a letter 
to my wife & spent the night at Kings Anns King street Borough. 

I am now in the great city of London the largest most noted & populous commercial City in the 
world containing a Population of about (1,500,000) one million five hundred thousand people. I 
am In Company with Elders H. C. Kimball & G. A. Smith. We are the first Elders of the church 
of Latter Day Saint that have ever walked the Streets of London. 

O London as I walk thy street & behold the mass of human beings passing through thee & view 
thy mighty pallaces, thy splended mansions, the costly merchantdize wharewith thou art adorned 
even as the capital of great Babylon, I am ready to ask myself, what am I & my Brethren here 
for? & as the spirit answers to warn thee of thine abominations & to exhort the to repent of thy 
wickedness & prepare for the day of thy visitation thy mourning thy calamity & thy wo, I am 
ready to cry out Lord who is sufficient for these things? 

O Mighty God of Jacob cloth us with thy power. Let the power of the Priesthood rest upon us & 
the spirit of our ministry & mission & enable us to warn the inhabitants of this city in such 
manner that our garments will be clean of their Blood & that we may seek out the honest in heart 
& the meek from among men & have many souls as seals of our ministry. 

We spent the night at kings Arms, King street, Borough London. Distance of the day 1 14 mile. 

19th } I wrot another letter to Phebe & enclosed it in the one that I wrote to her last evening. <1 
enclosed a sovereign and sent Phebe in the letter.> I also wrote a letter to Elder Turley In which I 
enclosed my letters to Phebe & others which we sent to him. 

We took a walk a mile or two into the city. Passed London Bridge twice & returned & spent the 
night at Kings Arms, King street, Borough. Their is so much passings of Drays & horses & 
singing & hollowing at all hours of the night in the streets that it is with difficulty that I could 
sleep at night. Elder Kimball & myself bought each of us an umbrella. 4 m. 

20th } I wrote a letter to Elders Young & Richards & also one to Br Francis Pullin. We took a 
walk through the city. We called to see Rev J. E. Smith 18 Duke st. Lincolns Inn Field. Also we 
visited John Pye 16 Cursitor st Chancery Lane. He was a full believer in the prophecies of Joanna 
Southcott & one of the society. We then returned through speed st. & had a view of the Noted St 
Pauls Church the largest in the world excepting the church at Rome /or Vatican of rome 
dedicated St Peter/. We returned through King James st. Crossed the London Bridge. Took tea at 
19 King street & walked through union st. Went to Zions Chapel Waterloo Road & herd a 


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downright comical serman delivered by Mr Annstrong an Atkinite preacher. I spent the night at 
58 King st. at Mrs Loftus. 6 mi. 

21 st This was the most interesting day of my life as far as viewing the splended works of man 
was concerned. I started in company with Elders Kimble, & G. A. Smith, for a walk over the City 
of London. We crossed over London Bridge, through King Williams St. & passed through 
several other streets. Visited the cup & garden, passed through St. Martin street & court & 
Leicester squair, & Sidney Alley, Coventry St., Picadilly, Glasshouse St & we passed through 
most the whol length of Regent street one of the most splended streets in the World. We passed 
through Langham Place, All Souls church with a spire naked from its base to the point. We also 
passed through Oxford st. We returned by the way of St. Pauls Church a description of which I 
shall give another day. 

To end the sceneries of this days walk, we visited the Noted monument erected in 
commemoration of the DREADFUL FIRE OF LONDON in the year 1666 built under the 
inspection of that great Architect SIR CHRISTOPHER WREN. We entered a door at its base 
(paid [6?] on entering) & assended 345 black marble steps which brought us 200 feet into the air, 
about 100 feet higher than the highest dwellings. We steped on the outside of the piller 
surrounded by an Iron railing which at once presented to our view an indescribable scenery upon 
evry hand. Here we were standing about 200 feet in the air upon the highest & finest modern 
column in the world & with the glance of the naked eye we could overlook & survey the largest 
most noted, populous & splended City upon the face of the whole earth even a City Containing a 
million & a half of human beings, & such a splendid prospect & grand scenery I never before 
beheld. 

We were situated so as to overlook nearly evry part of the city. East of us lay the splended tower 
of London & the Mint, North the Mansion of Lord Mayor of London, North West St Pauls 
Church West, Westminster Abby & the house of Parliment. South lies the River Thames with 
five large arched Bridges acrossed it in full view, & another which is not seen from the pillar 
making six, five of which are hewn stone & one is all of Solid Cast Iron, viz Southwark Bridge 
while London, Blackfriars Waterloo, Westminster & Vauxhall Bridges are all stone. 

South of the River lies London Borough & in addition to this were hundreds of Churches, 
chapels, & Spires standing in the midst of one universal dens mass of brick & Stone buildings, 
covering about six miles squair of ground. 

While viewing this scenery in a Clear day we were conversing with a Prussian traveller (citizen 
of Berlin) who had travled much over Europe & Asia & other parts of the world, & he declaired 
we could not find another spot upon the face of the earth that would present to our view as grand 
a scenery as the one before us. This monument was 24 feet higher than Trajan’s Pillar at Rome. 
This pillar cost £14,500 or $75,500 dollars. 

The following is inscribed upon one side of the monument in LATIN: In the year of Christ 1666 
the Second day of September from hence at the distance of two hundred & two feet the hight of 


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this column about midnight a most terrible fire broke out which driven on by a high wind not 
ownly wasted the adjacent parts but also places vary remote with incredible noise & fury. It 
consumed 89 Churches, the gates of the City Guild hall many public structures, hospitals, 
schools, libraries a vast number of Stately Edifices, 13,200 dwelling houses 400 streets of 26 
wards. It utterly destroyed 15 & left 8 others shattered & half burnt. The ruins of the city were 
436 acres from the Tower by the Thames side to the Temple Church & from the North east Gate 
along the city wall to Holborn Bridge. To the estates & fortunes of the citizens it was merciless 
but to their lives vary favorable (ownly eight being lost) That it might in all things resemble the 
last conflogration of the world. The destruction was sudden. For in a small space of time the 
same city was seen most flourishing & reduced to nothing three days after when the fatal fire had 
Baffled all human councils & endeavours, the opinion of all, as it were, by the will of heaven, it 
stoped & on evry side was extinguished. *(58) 6 m. 

22d {P} I received a letter from Mrs Woodruff under date of July 2d which I was truly rejoice to 
receive. I wrote her one in return a double letter one yesterday & one to day <and enclosed> 1/2 
<sovereign for Sarah and Wilford.> We also received a letter from B. Young & a copy of the 4th 
Star. I spent the day in writing. 

I walked out in the evening near the house of Parliment, & bought a good pocket watch. Paid 
£2.90 about equal to $12. 1 returned & spent the night at 58 King St. 3 mile. 

23d Went to Zions Chapel & herd the celebrated Rev Mr Aitken preach 2 sennons. He is a 
talented man. Has come out against the sexts & established churches of his own but he has got as 
far as he can & knows not what to do, sumthing like the followers of A Campbell in America. In 
fine the whole sectarian world is in confusion & trouble & knows not what to do. Mr Akens said 
in his sennon that the gentiles with all their present glory would soon be glad to take hold of the 
skirt of a Jew & say let us go with you. He also says that most are ignorant of the meaning & 
fulfillment of the Bible & will remain so untill it is revealed by the spirit of God. But 
notwithstanding Mr Akins has sum sublime truths yet he is building a great house without any 
foundation by rejecting the first principles of the gospel. 

We also attended meeting at Zions Chapel Waterloo Road & herd Mr {Robert Aitken} deliver an 
interesting warning to the gentiles in the evening. He presented some of the most sublime truths 
that I ever herd delivered by a sectarian priest. Also he whiped the present religionist of the day 
at a tremendious rate. He said they would go to Hell as a body for their religion was ownly a 
cloke to cover adulterers & evry evil work. He said the judgments of God would spedily over 
take them. He prophesied of many judgments that would spedily come. He wept over the present 
state of things. 

We retired & spent the night at our logings. 4 mi. 

24th We removed our logings whare we obtained a room for all three of us at Mr Robert 
Merryfield No 15 Gloster row, Grange Road. 


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} I wrote a letter to Elders Young & Richards. We visited St. Pauls Cathedral & went all through 
the lower court & could see the splender of most of it. It is the largest & most splended & 
expensive Church in the world at the present time excepting the Vatican at Rome dedicated St. 
Peter. It is 500 feet long from E to W & 285 wide from N to S. & 404 feet, high & it contains 47 
monuments of fine marble erected over the tombs of certain Lords, Bishops, Generals, Earls & 
other Titles who have distinguish themselves in the military service of Great Britiain & 
otherwise. Lord Nelsons Monument is the largest & most noted. Their Bodies are placed in 
vaults under the building & their monuments mostly erected on the floor above. This Cathedral 
bears up three lofty Spires & the whole Building is splended inside & out. 

It was first built by St Augustine in the year 610. It was destroyed by fire in 961 & rebuilt the 
following year. It was not till the reign of Athelstan that London became the metropolis of 
England & it was to this prince more perhaps than to any of his predecessors that the cathedral of 
St Paul was indebted for its permanant establishment & preeminance. In 1086 this cathedral was 
again destroyed by fire which also involved the greater part of the Metropolis in ruin. Maurice 
who was then Bishop of London had been Chaplain & chancellor to King William Conceived 
(Says Stow) the vast design of erecting the magnificent structure which immediately preceded the 
present Cathedral which was Sufficiently erected by 1099 to admit of public worship. But It was 
againe partly Burned in 1 132 & again in 1 135-6 it sustained considerably injury. The central 
tower was completed in 1221, & they continued to add unto it from time to time. The lofty Spire 
of the Cathedral was fired by lightning in 1444, & not repaired till 1462. In June 1561 the spire 
was again set on fire which destroyed spire & roof, & Queen Elizabeth commenced to repair it 
which was afterwards accomplished by Laud & King Charles the first who expended £104,300 
4s 8 p. 

But Immediately dissentions arose between the King & parliment & the whole cathedral sufferd 
beyound any former example. The revenues of the church was confiscated, the money & 
materials siezed by the parliment & the whole dody of the building was converted into Stables & 
Barracks for draggoons be. But It was again repaired [during] the reign of Charles the Second 
but It was not finished before it became a pray to the flames in the great fire of London in 1666 
which desolated the Chief part of the Metropolis. 

The above is a brief history of St Pauls Church untill 1666. The now present building or new 
Cathedral was built under the direction of Sir Christopher Wren. The first stone was laid on the 
21 st of June 1675 & the highest stone of the pile was laid at the top of the lantern by Mr 
Christopher Wren the son of the Architect in the year 1710, & the last finishing & adorning [of] 
the Church was Issued in 1715 by George the first. The whole expens of erecting this magnificent 
structure was about £1,576,067 15s or $5,880,380. Entire dimenticns, Length of the church from 
east to west is 500. The breadth of the body of the Church is 285 feet. The hight from the 
pavement in the street to the top of the Cross over the Dome is 404 feet. Two campanile towers at 
the west end are each 222 in highth. The general highth of the wall is about 90 feet. It was 40 
years in building. Commenced 1675 ended 1715. It covers over two (English acres of ground). 


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I again visited this Cathedral on the 7th of Sept & I visited evry part of it from the lower floor to 
the Ball. I walked all through the whispering gallery. A person can hear a whisper from any part 
of it & when the door shuts together it penetrate the ear like peels of thunder. I next visited the [ 

]• 

I purchased a pamphlet giving a full history of the whole co [ ]. 

25th } I wrote a letter to Elder Turley & enclosed our letter & sent them to him to convey them to 
America. We directed them to Liverpool. We Visited Mr George Boulton pin & needle hook & 
eye manufacturer. We went to his shop & saw them make pins through evry process of it from 
the wire to the finish. 

We attended a tea total meeting, at the Temperance Hall. We engaged the hall for a public 
meeting that we might preach the gospel to the people. We could not have it untill the 7 of sept. 
Elder Smith made a short speech in the tea total meeting. We returned & spent the night at our 
lodging. 5 m. 

26 We all started out to try to get some doors open for preaching the gospel. Br Kimball went to 
one part of the City. Br Smith & myself visited another part. We called upon two Baptist 
ministers. We asked one for his Chapel & the other we warned & left an address. We attended 
meeting in the evening at the Methodist Chapel in long lane. 

27th } I wrote a letter to Phebe Sent by the hand of Sister Elizabeth Ravenscroft. I also wrote a 
letter to Sister Elizabeth R. 

We attended a tea total meeting (or temperance) at the Temperance Hall in St Georges Road near 
Elephant & Castle South London. By request of the Committy I addressed the meeting upon the 
subject of Temperance & was followed by Elder Smith. We gave out an appointment to preach 
upon the gospel at the same place on the 7th of Sept. 

We are making evry exertion to find some Saints or those who are wiling to obey the gospel in 
this City of London But as yet our searching has been in vain. Priest & People are all Bound up 
in Bundles of tradition. There Bands are made strong & the whole City is given to whoredoms & 
all manner of wickedness & is ripe for judgment. Still we are detennined to Spare no pains but to 
search dilligently that we may seek out the honest in heart & the meek of the earth. 

28 We all started out in the morning to go through the city of London to see if we could find any 
man that had the spirit of God & after wandering several miles through the City not knowing 
whether we went we came to an Ephraimire walking in the Street. We steped up to him & spoke 
to him though It was the first time we had ever seen him. Br Kimball asked him if he was a 
preacher. He said he was. He seemed to have a good spirit. His name was Manning. He had Been 
to America. He was a native of Gloucestershire. Had come to London for the purpose of going to 
South Australia. But he was now in trouble. He had Just Buried his one Child & another lay at 
the point of death. Br Kimball told him his Child should live. He gave us some information 


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whare we could preach &c. 

After leaving him we passed by St Luke Church visited Smith (ield market, returned by St Pauls 
Crossed London Bridge & returned to our room in Grange Road 15, & after taking some 
refreshment Brother Kimball & myself took a walk to Debtford Parish. 

Called at Mr Holyoak grove st. to see Mr Manning. He was not in. We Saw his Child that was 
Sick. He was Better. 

After leaving the house & walking a Short distance we herd singing. We found it was a meeting. 
We went in & herd a Calvinest preach by the name of Winters. He gave us an invitation to call & 
see him. He treatd us kindly but he was a great spiritualizer. 

We returned to our room & soon Brother John Hulme Called to see us. He brought us a Bundle 
of Papers & a letter from Elder Richards. I retired to rest & had an Interesting dream in ketching 
fish. <Distance of the day> 12. 

29th We again went over the City of London to see if we Could find the children of God & we 
found one man & his household that received our testimony & opened his doors for us to preach. 
We appointed a meeting at his house for Sunday evening. I think he & his houshold will soon be 
Baptized. His name is CORNER 52 Iron monger row St Luke Parish near the Church. We had an 
interview with Br Hulme. We returned acrossed Black friars Bridge over the Thames. Distance 6 
m. 

30th Sunday FIRST FOUNDATION OF THE FULNESS OF THE EVERLASTING GOSPEL 
IN THE CITY OF LONDON. 

We having Spent 12 days going to & fro through the City of London to try to find a people that 
were willing to receive our testimony & obey the fullness of the gospel Jesus Christ, but finding 
evry door shut against us we were now detennined in the name God to go into the Streets & lift 
up our voice & warn the people. Accordingly Elders Kimball, Smith, & myself, walked 3 miles 
into the city, & Stoped in Tabernacle square Old Street. 10. 

Here we found a man preaching to the people of the Aitken Society & when he Closed another 
man got into the Chair to preach belonging to the Calvinest or Presbyterians & Just as he was 
about to speak Elder Kimball informed him that there was a preacher from America present who 
would like to speak when he got through. The preacher then informed the people that there was 
an American Preacher present & he proposed for him to speak first. 

Elder G A Smith then got into the chair & spoke about 20 minutes & was followed by the other 
Preacher. Elder Smith informed the people that there was two other American preachers present 
that would address them if they had an oppertunity & when the Calvenist preacher Closed, Elder 
Kimball asked him if there would be any objection to our preaching there at 3 oclock. 

He says No not all. What denomination do you belong to? To the Church of Jesus Christ of 


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Latter Day Saints. O I have herd of them. They are a bad people. They have done much hurt. 

They divide Churches. We dont want to hear you. 

He then got up into his chair & said to the people I have just herd that the last man that spoke 
belongs to the latter Day Saints & he spoke all manner of evil of us, & scandalized us before the 
people without hearing us or knowing any thing about our principles. 

Elder Kimball then asked him to let him step into the chair & give out the appointment for a 3 
oclock meeting but he would not let him & Just as he went to step into the chair another preacher 
of the Same order ketched up the Chair & run away with it. 

Elder Kimball then raised his voice & informed the people that some American Preachers would 
preach there at 3 oclock at which time we were all three of us on the Spot, & the Conduct of the 
Preacher & the excitement upon the subject brought a large congregation together. 

I opened the meeting by Singing, & prayer & Spoke about 30 minutes from Gal 1, 8, 9, upon the 
first principles of the gospel. I was then followed by Elder Kimball who spoke about the Same 
length of time. The people gave good attention to what we said & seemed to be much interested 
in what they heard, & we dismissed our meeting in the midst of good feelings. 

Mr Corner invited us home. Soon after we arived at his house Elder Kimball felt impressed to 
returned Back to the place of preaching, & When he got there he found a large Company talking 
about the things which they had herd, & they wished him to speak to them again & he did so & 
spoke lengthy & several invited him home. 

And while he was there, a man that was a preacher came to Mr Comers whare Br Smith & I was 
& I gave them a brief account of the great work which God was doing in these last days & they 
received the things which I spoke unto them & Mr Corner offered himself for Baptism which is 
the first man that has offered himself for Baptism in the City of London to us. We appointed next 
evening to administer the ordinance unto him & his houshold or as many as would receive it. 

We took supper with him & returned home by the way of London Bridge. The whole Bridge & 
streets was coverd with people so thick that a person could scearcely get al[ong?]. 

I returned home weary & spent the night at our logings But was unwell through the night with the 
Bowel Complaint. But I felt thankful to God for his mercies unto us for giving us the privilege of 
preaching once to the people of London & of having one soul as a seal of our ministry. 7 miles. 

3 1st We walked into the City & Called upon Mr Corner 52 Iron monger row, St Luke parish. 
While on our way we received a letter from sister Eliza Bromley. She stated She had a dream that 
we Should soon Baptize a man that would do much good. After reading the letter & ariving at Mr 
Corners, he went forward with us to a public Bath & was Baptized under the hands of Elder 
Kimball, & after returning to his house we all three laid our hands upon him & confirmed him 
which is the first man that has receved the work in the City of London as a seal of our ministry. 
We returned home & felt to thank God for his goodness in giving us one Soul. His wife 


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manifested much interest in the work & thinks of Being Baptized Soon. Brother Corner has been 
a Watch maker nearly all his life. 7 m. 


September 

Sept 1st I walked out in the afternoon with Elders Smith & Kimball to visit some of the great 
works of man. We visited the Thames Tunnel which is considerd one of the greatest wonders of 
the world. We entered the Tunnel on the South Side of the river Thames at Rotherhithe & after 
going about 80 feet down into the earth we entered the archway on the left which was finished 
1,120 feet which was beatifully lighted up with gas. We walked through it under the river 
Thames, with the river & Shiping over our heads & in some places not more than 15 feet 
between the top of the arch & the bed of the river. There is two archways the whole length of the 
tunnel & openings which afford free communication from one archway to the other. This is 
considered the greatest Piece of Invention & most splended work ever accomplished by man in 
modem times. We wrote our names & profession & residence in a record about under the centre 
of the river. 

We then came out of the Tunnel, & rode in a skiff 2 miles to the Tower of London which was 
built by the romans but is now occupied for the garrison armory & Jewelry of the British Navy & 
anny &c. We did not spend much time in visiting this for it was late & we could not go through 
the different appartments. 

On our return home we saw near London Bridge exhibited a representation as large as life in full 
Comstume the death of Marco Butzaris Don Carlos & his staff, The Duchess De Berri, the Infant 
Don Sebastian, Marcto Cyril & other officers, And the atrocious Murderers Could, Oxford, 
Courvoisier, & Bailey Greenacre & Sarah Gale. We returned home to our lodgings & spent the 
night. I was quit ill through the night with the Bowel Complaint which I have had for several 
days. 8 mil. 

2d I arose quite 111 With my Complaint. Spent the day mostly to my room. Elders Kimball & 
Smith went in to the city to visit the people. Pound some that harkend to their testimony. London 
is the hardest place I ever visited for esstablishing the gospel. It is lull of evry thing but 
righteousness, but we do not feel discouraged in the least. We are detennined in the name of the 
Lord to set up the Standard of truth in this city & to seek out the honest in heart & the meek from 
among men & warn all as far as in our power that the world may be left without excuse. 

3d I felt some better this morning But am confined most of the day to my room. Elders Kimball 
& Smith took a walked into the City. 

4th Elders Kimball & Smith took A walk to Debtford, & I took a walk into the city. Called upon 
Br Comer. Pound him in good Spirits. I also Called upon A Mr Panther 17 Wharf City road 
Basin. As he was a directer of a Methedist Chapel I asked him for it to preach in. He said he had 
a School house that would hold about 500. He said I might have that on Sunday & he would give 
up his school for that purpose. So I gave out an appointment at Bowl Court 137 Thornditch. 


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I conversed with several others who received my testimony. One woman said she would be 
baptized. 

I returned home by the way of the Smithfield Market which occipies about 20 acres of ground, & 
it was in the time of the fair & I never saw such a scenery before. In fact it would be a difficult 
task for a historian to describe the particulars of 20 acres of ground coverd over with Cattle, 
Sheep, Caravans of Beast, Lion, Tigers Leopards Bears, Wolves, Elephants Camels Zabras 
homed horses, wild Boars, monkeys, Serpants, & evry description of beasts, Animal & reptile 
exhibited in Europe these connected with large bands of music. Men women, & children of 
almost evry grade & rank prostitues & merchantdize of evry name & nature. Oshters, Shrimps, 
mustles, crabs, lobsters fish, cakes bread, meet beer, soda, Crockery toys clothing of all kinds old 
& new, umbrellas, Pears, Apples, plums, & grapes & almost evry thing els that anybody ever 
saw. A Giant women was exhibited 7 feet high a sheep weighing 600 lbs. & a live serpent 12 feet 
in length which a women would wind around her bare neck & bosom to Show her courage &c. 

Should a Missourian from the western wiles of America whose knowledge extends ownly to his 
gun, Corn Crib & hog pen behold such a Scenery he would think he was in another world. What 
affect it would have upon him I know not but one thing is certain that any man that loved virtue 
peace & retirement would turn from such a scenery with his heart sicken within him knowing 
that virtue peace nor righteousness Could not long dwell in such a sink of confusion & iniquity. 8 
m. 

Sept 5th *(59) Elders Kimball, Smith, & myself Visited Westminster Abbey & went through 
evry appartment of it & saw all the tombs & monuments of the Kings, Queens, Princes, Lords & 
noted men that have ever been entombed within its walls. One part of the Abbey was built in the 
year 600 having stood over 1,200 years. Most all of the Kings & Queens of England are in this 
Abbey that have died for the last 1,200 years. We saw the perfect likenes of Queen Elizabeth, 
Mary, & Ann, Lord Nelson, & Pitt & others. We saw the full Coronation dress of Queen Ann. 
We saw the Chair & Sat in it, in which Queen Victoria was Crowned & all the kings & Queens 
for the last 800 years. This Chair is Coverd with gold tissue. It contains a stone under the seat 
upon which all the Scottish chiefs & kings were crownd since they wer a people. It is reported to 
be Jacobs pillar. This Chair has been in use more than 800 years. 

This Abbey is composed of Eleven Chapels, (ownly seperated by walls or petitions) viz. St 
Benedict, St Edmund, St Nicholas, Henry the Seventh, St Paul, St Edward the Confess, St 
Erasmus, Abbotslip, St John, St Andrew, And St Michael, & these Chapels contain the bodies, 
tombs & monuments of 13 Kings viz. Edward I -III - V- VI, Charles II, Henry III V- VII, James 
I, George II, Richard II, William III, And Sebert King of the East Saxons who first built this 
Church & Died July 616. Also 13 Queens viz. Athelgodo Queen of Sebert who died Sept 13th, 
615, And Phillipa, Matilda Mary I - II - & Queen Mary of Scotland, Elizabeth, Catherine, Queen 
Anne, & Editha, Eleanor & Caroline. And of 6 Princes, 1 1 Dukes, 7 Duchess, 1 Marquis, 7 
Lords, 3 Viecunt, & 8 Countess, 3 Barrons, 16 Earls, 1 1 Admirals, 10 General, 5 Col. 3 Majors, 


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10 Capt. 4 Lieut. 16 Bishops, 6 Divines, 15 Doct. 52 Sirs, 153 Gentleman And 48 Lady's making 
42 1 persons who have been deposited in vaults in this Abbey & Monuments erected to their 
Memory. 

Here we see freequent marks of violence from O. Cromwell in defacing some of the tombs, 
monuments & brass work with which some of the Abbey was adorned. Here we behold the art of 
man with all its combined force & power spun to the finest thread & expanded to the fullest 
extent in the building & finishing of this Abbey as a general whole but more esspecially that part 
called Henry Seventh Chapel. And A Visit to this ABBEY is not ownly worthy of the Attention 
of all travellors but to occupy A place in the Journal of any Historian fond of British 
ANTIQUITY. 6 m. 

6th Sunday I preached in the morning at Bowl Court 237 Shoreditch. Was followed by Elders 
Kimball & Smith. Also we held a meeting in Tabernacle square at 3 oclock & Elders Kimball & 
Smith preached in the street & I followed them in Bearing testimony. One man arose & opposed 
us & was angry becaus of the truth of God, & continued opposing untill the conversation was 
stoped by the Police. We met again in the evening at Bowl Court to preach to the people as we 
had an appointments. But when we got there, we found a plan Contrived by several of the 
preachers for one of them to preach lest some of the peopl would believe our doctrin & when we 
saw this we went our way, & found four other persons that received our testimony & offered 
themselves for Baptism. 10 m. 

7th } I wrote a letter to Elder Browett & walked to Br Corners & visited several other friends. 
<Brother Comer would make me a [-] watch for> 5 10. Two offered themselves for Baptism. 

On my return home I visited St Pauls Church or Cathedral. After visiting the lower room which 
we visited on the 24th Aug. I then walked on circular stairs into the whispering gallery which is 
round & exceding large & a person can hear a whisper distinctly from any part of it. I next visited 
the Cupola & all parts above it untill I got to the / * (60)/. I then went in to the top of the Brass 
ball upon which the cross stand which is as high as any man can go. It brought me 400 feet in the 
air over the city. I wrote my name & returned to the Earth. 

On ariving at our boarding hours I found Elders Kimball & Smith who had just returned from a 
visit with the Rev. R. Aitken A.M. He treated them kindly acknowledged their doetrin to be true 
but was afraid of deception. His mind is in a disturbed state. 

We held a meeting in the Temperance hall in the evening which was well lighted with gas. But 
we had almost bear walls to preach to as their was ownly about 30 persons present. The truth is 
the minds of the people here in London are taken in with evry thing but the things of God & 
righteousness. I preached to the people about one hour & was followed by Elder Kimball. After 
paying 7/6 for the use of the Hall we returned to our lodgings. 

8th *(61) I spent a part of this day in visiting places & things connected with the Crown. We all 
three started together & walked up King & Union Street. Passed by surry Chapel, Built & 


Page328 




occupied for many years by the Celebrated Rev Rowland Hill, whose body now lies under the 
Chapel. 

From thence we continued west to Westminster Bridge which we walked over which brought us 
direct to West minster Abbey & to the house of parliment. We walk through the house of 
Commons & of Lords. We sat in the Chair whare the speaker of the house of Lords had Sat for 
many years. In this room all the speaches were made by Mr William Pitt concerning America 
before the Revolution. In this room all the laws were made that now governs from 172,452,000 
to 200,000,000 of human beings. As the house of Commons was burned down about 6 years 
since this room is now occipied by the house of Commons & there is annother house now built 
which the hous of Lords at the present time occupy. 

One would naturly suppose that a room fitted up to contain the hous of Lords of Commons 
would be sumthing extra, grand expensive & fine but it is not so but the revers. It is exceding 
plain & undecorated. On entering the room one would sooner think he was in an American 
School house rather than in a house of Lords or of Commons. 

From this we visited St James Park, whare [we] Saw the a company of 200 foot Soldiers or 
guards on parade accompanied by a full band of music, After which we saw the Queen's Horse 
guard on parrade one hundred in number with there bodies coverd with Steel which glissened 
much in the Sun. They were all mounted upon Black mares which were fa[s?]t & gay. We visited 
the monument erected in honor to his grace the Duke of York. It was 135 in highth. 

Here I parted with Elders Kimball & Smith. I walked the whole length of St James park. It has a 
pool in the Centre & mansions & pallaces around it. I first visited the mansion of Queen 
DOWAGER widow of the Late King William V. I next visited the mansion of the Duke of 
Southerland which was quite splendid. 

I then visited Buckingham Palace one of the most splendid palaces in Europe or the world. This 
palace is for the Royal family. It is now occupied by her Majesty Queen Victoria & his Highness 
Prince Albert. It covers a number of acres of ground, & evry door, entrance, & gate was strongly 
guarded by armed soldiers 

I walked nearly around this palace & while there I had the privilege of Seeing his Royal Highness 
PRINCE ALBERT While he rode from his Palace across St James Park. He was mounted on a 
gray horse. Was followed by his groom on a sorrel horse. He was not accompanied by her 
Majesty Victoria or any other person except his groom. He was dressed in a frock Coat & dark 
pantloons. He looks well fresh & healthy & in the bloom of life as he is, but about 20 years of 
age. I did not see her majesty as she was at Winsor at the present time. 

I also visited the National Gallery, & saw all the paintings which the nations has gathered 
together which are considerd the most sublime of any in the world. 

After leaving the gallery & visiting St Martins Church, I thought I had seen as much as my brain 


Page329 




would contain in one day. I then walked about 3 miles through the City & again met with my 
Brethren, at Br Corners 52 Ironmonger Row, St Lukes London & after spending a little time with 
the friends we again returned to our lodgings & sepnt the night. Distance of the day 12 m. 

9th I took Breakfast. Paid my Bills. Called upon Mr & Mrs Allgood for the last time at present. 
Mrs Allgood sent a pair of twesers & a ring for Keys to Phebe. They treated us kindly. We 
walked to London Bridge. We hired a kalb or a kudgall as Brother Kimball calls it & we rode to 
Iron monger Row St Lukes & Elders Kimball & Smith higherd lodgings at No 40 Iron monger 
row St Lukes at which place we spent the night. 

Br Comer cleaned my watch. He said it was a vary expensive watch when it was first made. He 
said it cost £10.00. It was a horizontal watch, Caped & Jeweld in 4 holes with the first class of 
Jewels & it was a centre seconds. He said it was cheap at the Present time at £5. 

10th I took the parting hand with Elders Kimball & G. A. Smith & the friends in London having 
spent 23 days in that great city, for the purpose of warning the people & esstablishing the 
kingdom & we all found as hard work to find Saints & build up a Church as in any place we ever 
visited. We Baptized one man & ordained him a priest & 6 others gave in there names to be 
Baptized on next Saturday or Sunday & also there was some little prospect of the Rev R. Aitken's 
A.M. receiving & embracing the work which will open doors to many honest souls so I felt to 
rejoice that our labours were not altogether in vain. 

I took the Omnibus & rode 3 miles to the great western railway Padington Depot. I took the 
railcar at 9 oclock & rode 70 miles. Passed by winser Castle with the British flag raised as a 
token that her Magesty was there. I again took Coach at Farrington road station & rode 40 miles 
to Cheltenham at which place I arived at 4 oclock. Here I found Elder Browett & wife, Sister 
Lambert & Br & Sister Crook. After spending 3 hours in Cheltenham I rode home with Elder 
Browett 6 miles & spent the night. 

On my return to these Churches Connected with the Herefordshire conference &c I rejoice to find 
the work universally progressing with great rapidity upon evry hand even some cases among the 
Nobility whare they are becomeing Convinced the work is of God. Yea the Lord is making a 
spedy work & short in the Earth. Distance of the day 119 miles. 

1 1th I spent the day at the Leigh mostly at Elder Jinkins. Was writing. <Elder Jenkins fitted my 
boots.> 

12th } I wrote a lengthy historical letter to Elder Kimball including my travels with him in 
London. It is the first letter I have ever written him. 

13th Sunday I met in the morning with the Saints at the Leigh & communed with them. I also 
preached at 2 oclock at [ ] to a large Congregation who gave good attention & manifested 

much interest in what they herd. I again preached at the Leigh at 6 oclock & 4 were Baptized by 
Elder Glover & I confirmed them. 


Page330 




Minutes of A Conference held Sept 14, 1840 


The Bran Green & Gadficld Elm Conference of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints 
held at Gadfield Elm Chapel in Worcestershire on the 14th day of Sept 1840. 

Their being present one of the Travling high Council one High Priest, 9 Elders, 19 Priest, & 4 
Teachers. The meeting was Called to Order by Elder Kington when It was moved by Elder 
Woodruff & second by Elder Richardson that Elder Thomas Kington be Chosen President of the 
conference. Carried unanimously. Elder H. Glover was chosen clerk. 

Meeting opened by Prayer by Elder Woodruff after which Elder Woodruff gave an address to the 
Saints present. 

It was then moved & Carried that Thomas Hayes Priest be ordained to the office of an Elder 
Allso that John Burton, Robert Clift jr. Thomas Browet, Edward Jinkins, Francis Pullin, John 
Allard, John Allen, & Joseph Hill be Ordained Priest. Also William Matthews, James Hill & 
James Pitt be ordained Teachers, & Joseph Simmons be ordained Deacon The above named 
persons were then Ordained under the hands of Elders Woodruff & Kington. 

Elders Kington, Richardson, Kay & Woodruff then made some important remarks to the officers 
Concerning their teaching & dilligence in the vineyard. The meeting then adjourned to 2 oclock. 

Met at 2 oclock & opened by Singing & Prayer when the President called upon the officers to 
represent the different branches of the Church. Elder Kington represented the church at Dymock, 
as follows: 2 Expeled, 3 removed, & now numbering members 



44, 

2, 

2, 

3 

0 

Ditto Kilcott Ditto James Palmer 

12 

0 

2 

1 

0 

Ditto Twigworth Ditto John Hill 

11 

0 

2 

0 

0 

Do Bran Green Do Elder Wm. Jenkins 

7 

0 

2 

0 

0 

Do Ryten Do Thomas Brooks 

7 

0 

2 

1 

0 

Do Lime Street Do John Smith 

17 

0 

2 

0 

0 

Do Deerhurst Do Elder Charles Hays 

30 

1 

1 

0 

0 

Do Apperly Do John Vernon 

19 

0 

3 

0 

0 

Do Norton Do Elder John Horlick 

9 

1 

0 

1 

0 

Do Leigh Do John Spires 

27 

2 

3 

0 

0 

Do Gadfield Elm Do Thomas Oaky 



24 

0_ 

1 


204 

6 

21 

6 

0 

204 

6 

21 

6 

0 


Page331 



M 

Ditto Haw Cross Ditto Elder Wm. Jinkins 13 

Do Cheltenham Do Thomas Browett 3 

Do Bristol Do Elder H Glover 2 

Do C Cranham Do Elder John Horlick 2 

Do High Laden Do Elder Jinkins 3 

Do Westonn Do Elder Browett 1_ 

Total 228 

Barrow & scatterings 25 

253 


E P T D 

0 10 0 
0 10 0 

0 10 0 

0 2 0 0 

0 0 0 0 

0 0 0 0 

6 26 6 0 


Moved & Carried that Elder Kington & represent this conference to the general Conference to be 
held in Manchester on the 6th Day of Oct 1840. 

The minutes were then read & accepted by the unanimous vote of the Conference. After several 
exhortations from the Elders accompanied by much of the Spirit of God It was moored & Carried 
that this meeting adjourn to the 14th of Dec next to be held at this place. 

This meeting was dismissed by blessing from Elder Woodruff. 

Thomas Kington 
President Henry Glover Clerk 


15th } I walked from Turkey Hall to forty Green. I wrote a letter to Lady Roberts a companion to 
Lady Dowdswell, & sent it to her by the hand of sister Brooks. Lady Roberts is of the Nobility, a 
Lady of wealth, of Rank, has at her command the Languages has withdrawn from the Church of 
England & has travled much in search of truth, & looking for the fulfillment of the ancient 
Prophets. She became acquainted with the fulness of the gospel through a female servent in the 
employ of Square Dowdswell which I had Baptized & as soon as she began to investigtate the 
subject the Spirit of God rested upon her & convinced her of the truth of the work & she obtained 
the four number of the Millennial Star which we had printed & fearing She Should not be able to 
obtain them she copied the whole of them of with her pen. She red the Book of mormon & 
Coppied a part of that in the same manner. She became perfectly convinced of the truth of the 
work & said she would go a thousand miles but what she would see some of the Twelve & be 
Baptized under their hands & hearing that I was in London, she was about to take a Journey there 
to see me & the other Brethren & Be baptized. 

She will not infonn any of her relatives or rank of her intentions untill she is Baptized thinking 
she will then have more power to commence her testimony & warning among those sitting in 
high Places. She has two Brothers ministers of the Church of England. After sending her an 
address by letter, She returned me a virble answer by Sister Brooks thanking me kindly for the 
interest I manifested in her welfare, saying she should address me by letter in few days. 


Page332 




I then walked to Haw Cross & preached & spent the night at Br Smiths. 5 miles. 

16th I walked to Dymock & Joined Elder Kington at his house in attending their regular weekly 
prayer meeting. Elder Kington had been faithful in warning the inhabitants of Dymock & had 
gatherd together about 50 Saints which had much stired up the people to anger against the saints 
esspecially Mr John Simons the Rector of the Church in Dymock manifested much of the Spirit 
of the Devil by stiring up mobs against the Saints which had disturbed the meetings of the Saints 
in several instances, & on this occasion as we began to gather together the beat of drums pails 
pans & Sticks was herd through the street, & the mob soon Collected & Parraded in the streets in 
front of the house. We Closed the window shutters & doors in the room whare we ware, & I 
opened meeting by Singing & Prayer & no sooner had we Commenced than the mob armed 
themselves with eggs, Bricks, rocks, & evry thing els they could lay their hands upon & began to 
throw them upon the house like a shower of hail Stones for nearly an hour. They dashed in the 
windows scatterd Stones, Brick, & glass, through the rooms, broke the tile on the rooff & 
continued such depredations untill the close of the meeting. 

And the Brethren feeling disposed to try what virtue their was in the English laws which were 
strict against such procedings I proposed to accompanied them to go into the midst of the mob to 
see who they were that there might be testimony against them. But they would not pennit me to 
go with them lest I should receive an injury from the shower of stones. But several of the 
Brethren went themselvfs into the midst of the mob & took the name of the leaders & returned to 
the house in the midst of Stones, & Brick bats, though without Injury. The mob soon broke up & 
after Clearing our rooms of brick, stones & glass we lay down & had a good nights rest. 5 mil. 

} I wrote a letter to Elders Kimball & Smith. 

17th I spent most of the day in Dymock & in the evening I walked to Ledbury & spent the night 
at Br Pullins. 5 miles. 

181 walked to Frooms hill & found the Saints in good spirits. I learned by letter that Elder Turley 
left Liverpool on the eighth of Sept on board of the North American with 200 Saints. I was 
informed that Brother & Sister Benbow & all the Saints left in good spirits. I spent the night at 
Brother John Coles. 

19th I spent the day at Brother Coles in writing. 

20th I preached in the morning at Froores Hill & also communed with the Saints at 3 oclock & 
also with the Saints at Standly Hill at 6 oclock & I had an interesting day. 

Minutes of the Standly Froom's Hill 
Conference 

The Frooms Hill Conference of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints met at Standly 
Hill Herefordshire on the 21st of Sept 1840 according to previous Appointment, Their being 


Page333 




present one of the Travling high Council, one High Priest, 17 Elders 33 Priest 1 1 Teachers. 

Meeting was Called to Order by Elder Kington when It was moved by Elder Kington, seconded 
by Elder Richardson that Elder Willford Woodruff be Chosen President of the Conference. 
Carried unanimous. Elder Daniel Browett was Chosen Clerk. 


Meeting opened by Prayer & Singing by the President who made an address concerning the 
business of the day. It was then moved by the President & seconded by Elder Kington that John 
Meeks John Gaily William Web & Henry Jones Samuel Badham Be Ordained Elders. 

Also Charles Fields Jonathan Davis 

Charles Taysom Thomas Vernal 

James Shinn James Evens 

John Hill Thomas Harber 

William Foxsel Thomas Hardane 

Henry F idler William J ones 

Joseph Need Edward Oakey 

George Brooks & James Watkins 

William Johnson 
John Bailey Be Ordained Priest. 

& William Field Edward Jinkins 

Edward Clark Thomas Vernal 

James Price Timothy Gittins 

Benjamin Holland & Francis Birch Be Ordained Teachers which was carried unanimously. 

The above named persons were then Ordained under the hands of Elders Woodruff, Kington, 
Richardson & Kay. Meeting then adjourned one hour. Met at 1 oclock. Opened by singing & 
prayer. The official members was then called upon to represent the several branches of the 
church when Elder John James represents the church at Frooms Hill. 1 Died \ 


17 Removed now numbering 
Do Elder Joseph Pullin do Standly Hill 
8 Removed & now numbering 
Do George Edings P. Do Moorend And 
Ridgway Cross 6 Removed 
Do Jonathan Lucy P. Do Calwall 
Do Thomas Jones P. Do Pale House 
Do Francis Pullen P. Do Ledbury 2 
removed 

Do Er. Samuel Warren Do Keysend Sheet 
1 removed 2 Expeled 1 Dead 
Do James Baldwin P. Do Wind Point 


members E P T D 

117 14 10 

57 1310 

68 0 1 0 0 

17 110 0 

14 0 110 

22 0 5 0 0 

79 2 5 1 0 


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1 Dead 3 1 

Do Er. George Allen Do Woferwood Common 18 
Do Er. Samuel Badham Do Dunsclose 24 

Do Edward Philips P. Do. Old Starridge 24 

Do Edward Philips P. Do Old Starridge 27 

Do Er. John Gaily Do Hope Rough 15 

= Benjamin Williams P. = Shucknell 
Hill 13 

= Elder Philip Green Do Lugwardin 14 

= John Dyer P. = Marden 5 1 

= Elder William Evens = Stokes Lane 
1 Dead 3 1 

= Edward Philips P. Ashfield & Crawcutt 
1 Dead 55 

= John Fidoe P. Ditto Bishop Froome 10 

= Eld. George Allen = Clifton upon 
Tame 15 

= Samuel Williams P. = Marlvem Hill 
1 Removed 21 

= William Pitt P. = Derla Common 3 

= Eld. Joseph Pullen = Willington 
Heath 2 

= Eld Thomas Kington = Dinmore Hill 2 

= Do ditto = Garway 26 

= Eld Woodruff Scattering 22 

Total 754 


0 3 11 

1 10 0 

12 10 
3 

3 

1 

2 

1 5 

2 1 

2 4 1 


5 

1 

2 

1 1 
1 


2 


14 51 9 1 


Moved & Carried that Elder Thomas Kington represent this Conference to the general 
Conference to be held at Manchester on the 6th day of Oct 1840. 

The minutes were then read & accepted by the conference by a unanimous vote [ ] when an 

address was deliverd by the President accompanied by the spirit of God to the joy & Consolation 
of a multitude of Saints. 


Mooved & Carried that this Conference adjourn to the 21st Day of Dec next at this place. 

Meeting Closed by singing & Prayer by the President. 

Willford Woodruff President 
Daniel Browett Clerk 


The Bran Green & Gadfield Elm & Froom’s Hill 


Conference is now composed of: 
Churches 40 40 


Page335 




Members 1007 1007 

Officers 113 113 

Viz 19 Elders 78 Priest, 15 Teachers 1 Deacon. The whole of the above Church has been built up 
within six months & a half. 

This hath been a busy day with me & after standing upon my feet from morning till night I am 
called to shake hands with hundreds of Saints who possess glad hearts & cheerful countenances 
& it is with no ordinary feelings that I meditate upon the cheering fact that a thousand Souls have 
been Baptized into the New & Everlasting Covenant within half a year in one field which God 
has enabled me to open & I Pray God to Accept the gratitude of my heart for his mercies & 
blessings unto me in this thing & enable me to Stand with these Saints & all the righteous in the 
Celestial Kingdom of God. 

I walked home with Brother Oaky & spent the night, & after standing upon my feet 8 hours in 
Conference, Conversing much of the time, Ordaining about 30, confirming some, healing many 
that were Sick, Shaking hands with about 400 Saints, waking 2 miles, & Preaching 4 hours in the 
Chimney Comer, I then lay down & dreamed of Ketching fish. 

22d I spent the day at Br John Coles in writing. There was two dead Bodies carried by the house 
whare I was sitting to the Burial to day. They were both aged & the man vary wicked. He had 
often wished his wife Dead & Boasted what a joyful time & high scrape he would have when she 
did Die. She Died on the 18th & he Died in few hours after [on the] same Day. Was found dead 
in his room with his Door locked. The woman was 90 years of age & the man 80. Their names 
was James & Sarah Love. This is the fourth Day since they Died. The English custom is to keep 
the Dead 4 days. 

I was called to visit a young man who lay dangerously 111 & in danger of the Lock Jaw from a cut 
of the ancle & bruse of the knee. I rebuked the inflamation & paine of his body & he was made 
whole. 

I Baptized 1 Edward Jones game keeper. To John Freeman. I confirmed 2. <Distance of the day> 
4 m. 

23d } I wrote a letter to Elder Richardson. I was called to visit a young man who was dangerously 
ill with a fever. He convenanted to Keep the commandments of [God] & I annointed him with oil 
& rebuked his fever & he began to recover. 

I also visited an aged Saint upon her Dying bed. I Blessed her & she rejoiced in the fulness of the 
gospel even in Death. 

I held a Prayer meeting with the Saints & spent the night at Brother Coles. 

24th I spent the Day in writing. The Church ministers are vary much stired up in this region 
because the Saints are gathering together. Evry exhertion is made against the the work of God. 
The Clergy are fearing they will loose their flock & the Lord is delivering the flock out of their 


Page336 




hands. The ministers of the church of England see this, & they are alanned in earnest. They are 
holding Conventions & meetings to Contrive Schemes & plans to overthrow & stop the work of 
God. In some instances they do not have more than 10 or 15 persons in their Church on the 
Sabbath & they really begin to think sum thing strange is happening. Truth will prevail. 

25 } I wrote an address to Elder H C Kimball & George A. Smith. As I was again about to take 
my leave of the Saints in that region I called & visited several of them in the evening & I 
Baptized 2 & Confirmed them & after visiting the Saints untill midnight I took the parting hand 
with them & started my Journey at 12 oclock. 

26th I rode from Froores Hill in the night in a horse cart to Worcester. 15 miles. I there took 
Coach & rode 40 miles to Wolverhampton 8/. Took Omnibus & rode to railroad Station 1/6. 
Then took railroad & road 80 miles to Whitmore Station 7/. Took Omnibus & rode to Hanly 9 
miles 2/. Then took Gig & rode to Bursleto 2 miles 1/. Thus after constant travling 18 hours 98 
miles which Cost 18/6 I was joyfully received by the Saints in Burlsem, & on my arival Sistef 
Corden put into my hands *(62) a letter from Elders Kimball & Smith in London which was 
Interesting & also 7, 8, & 9th Numbers of the Times & Season from America which was a feast 
to my soul indeed as it was the first NO of that paper I had seen for many months. 

27th Sunday I walked from Bursleto to Lane end & Preached to the Saints & had an interesting 
time. I then walked to Hanly & Preached & Communed with the Saints. I then walked to 
Burslem & Preached to a large congregation & had the Spirit of God. 15 miles. 

Minutes of the Conference of the 
Staffordshire Potteries Sept 28 1840 


The Conference met at Hanly Staffordshire on the 28th Sept there being present one of the 
travling Council 4 Elders 1 1 Priest 5 Teach[ers] & [2?] Deacons. The meeting was then called to 
order by Elder Simpson when it was moved & Carried that Elder W. Woodruff be Chosen 
President of the Conference & Osmond Shaw Clerk. The meeting was then opened by Singing & 
Prayer by the President who addressed the meeting concerning the business of the day. It was 
moved & Seconded that John Rowley & William Knight be ordained Elders. 


Also William Salt 
James Grocott 
Charles Stevenson 
John Wardie 
Thomas Amison 
John Taylor 
Thomas Page & John 


William Plant 
John Rowley 
John Mason 
John Wood 
William Mountford 
Enoch Thomas 
be ordained Priest. 


Hunt 


Also George Wainwright Samuel Rowley 


Page337 





John Grocott W[ ] Hancock 

Richard Brough & Joseph Hudson be Ordained Teachers. 

Also Joseph Booth Benjamin Mycock 

James Martin & William Booth 

William Bolton Be ordained Deacons. 


Carried Unanimously 


The above named persons were then Ordained under the hands of Elders W Woodruff & George 
Simpson. The President then called upon the Official members to represent the various Branches 
of the Church when Wm. Bradbury Piriest] represented Burslem & Hanly Churches. 


Ditto Badly Edge 
Edward Edge = New Castle 
Elder John Rowley = Stoke = 
Thomas Amison P do Lane End 
Er. Richard Rushton do Leek 
Spencer Walker P. do Tunstell 
Total 


members 87 5 12 4 2 

6 0 2 1 

15 4 11 

18 1 411 

39 1 3 11 

45 2 4 1 2 

11 _3 1 1 

231 9 32 9 9 


Moved & Carried that Badley Edge be organized a Branch. 

Moved & Carried that Elder Cordon represent this conference to the general Conference to be 
held at Manchester on the 6th of oct 1840. 


Moved & Carried that this Conference adjourn to the 28 Dec. 


The meeting then Concluded by Singing & Prayer, & in the afternoon the Officers met when 
Elder Woodruff addressed them at length & gave much Council & advice & the Blessing of God 
was with us through the day. 


5 Baptized after Conference. 

Willford Woodruff 
President O Shaw Clerk 


29th I Baptized one & Preached in Tunstell. 

30th I spent most of the day in writing. I preached in the evening at Burslem to a crouded 
congregation. The power of God rested upon me. I warned the people to prepare for the great 
judgments which are at the door. [One line crossed out illegible .] Awful solemnity pervaded the 
congregation. The spirit of God is upon the People. The people see that God is doing a work. 


Page338 




October 


Oct 1st I walked to Hanly. From thence in Company with John Tailor Priest to Stoke. I here 
found Brother G. A. Smith, who had Just returned from London. I was glad to see him. We then 
walked to Lane end whare I found Br Kimball. I was also glad to see him. Sister Bromley 
furnished us with sumthing to eat. We then walked to the water & I Baptized 2 Sisters Taylor & 
Martin. 

We then walked to the Preaching room in Lane End & met an over whelming congregation. I 
testified unto them of the things of God & was followed by Elder Kimball. The power of God 
was upon us. The people feel it to be a day of warning & not of many words. We confinned 6 & 

3 others were Baptized making 5 in all. We spent the night at Mr William W. Player a methedist 
preacher. 8 miles. 

Oct 2d Elder Kimball & myself arose from our bed in the morning with the power of God resting 
upon us. Yea the spirit of God is like fire shut up in my bones. O my God, why is thy spirit thus 
upon me? Why is mine eyes this morning a fountain of tears? What art thou about to do O my 
God that causes this thing? I ask the father to tell it unto me in the name of Jesus Christ thy son. 

Thus Saith the Lord God unto thee my servant Willford. This is my spirit that resteth upon thee 
to enlighten thy mind to show the things to cum not ownly upon thee but upon all my faithful 
servants upon the face of the whole earth. Therefore lift up thy voice & spare not for I am about 
to perform a great work upon the face of the earth Saith the Lord. Mine indignation is about to be 
poured out without mixture upon the heads of this nation & all the nations of the earth & they 
shall not escape. The cry of the poor, the widow & orphan is assending into mine ears Saith the 
Lord & I am about to avenge the cry of mine elect by laying low the oppresser & executing the 
decree of mine heart upon all the ungodly from among men. 

Therefore I put my spirit upon the & say unto thee lift up thy voice & spare not & Call upon all 
men to repent that cume within the sound of thy voice & many souls shall be given unto the & 
great shall be thy reward & eternal shall be thy glory Saith the Lord. 

The people are much stired up throughout the Potteries. They feel as they never felt before. They 
believ that sumthing in earnest is cuming in. Great distress is resting upon the peopl. The poor 
are perishing for bread through the streets. I walked to Stoke & we preached to the people. The 
power of God was upon us. 3 were Baptized & we confirmed them. We spent the night at Stoke. 

3 miles. 

3d We walked to Burslem & spent the night. [9?] mi. 

4th *(63) We both met with the saints at Hanly at 2 oclock & I preached at Bursleto in the 
evening. I was sick during the day with the Cholera. [.]. 

5th I took Coach in Company with Elders Kimball & Br Kneadham for Manchester. I had a 


Page339 




shake of the ague on the way & was quite sick. When I arived at Manchester I had an interview 
with Brs Young, Richards, & O Pratt & many other Brethren. 

I } wrote a letter to Phebe & spent the night at Br Richards with Br Young & Kimball. Distance 
36 m. 


MINUTES OF THE GENERAL CONFERENCE 


A general Conference of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints was held in the 
Carpenters Hall in Manchester on the 6th Day of Oct 1840 it being the 1 day of the 7th month of 
the 1 1 year of the Church when the following officers of the Travelling High Council were 
Present viz Elders B Young Orson Pratt W Woodruff Willard Richards, H. C. Kimball & G A 
Smith. Other officers: High Priest 5, Elders 19, Priests 28, Teacher 14 & Deacons 2. 

The meeting being Called to order at 10 oclock by Elder Brigham Young it was moved by Elder 
Young seconded by Elder Woodruff that Elder Orson Pratt be President of the Conference which 
was Carried unanimously. Elder George Walker was Chosen Clerk. 

After Singing & Prayer by the President their was 27 conferences & churches represented viz: 


Conferences & Churches 

41 

Saints 

3626 

Elders 

81 

Priests 

222 

Teachers 

64 

Deacons 

26 

Sum Total of Official members 383 

Increase for the last three months see July 6th 

Saints 

1113 

Elders 

25 

Priests 

96 

Teachers 

15 

Deacons 

13 

Total 

43T Note(64) 


After much other business was transacted the meeting dismissed by Prayer. 


O Pratt President 
George Walker Clerk 

Oct 7th /John Burry/ 1 Sat in Council with the Twelve & many other Saints at the Star Office, we 
all attending A discussion in the evening held at the Carpenters Hall Garrett Road Manchester. A 
Mr Burry attempted to Prove the Book of Mormon fals & water Baptism or Baptism by 
immersion not essential to Salvation. He was answered by Elder Corden who proved the Book of 


Page340 




mormon true & Baptism by Immersion a gospel ordinance & essential to Salvation. The 
Discussion was before 1,500 people. Elder Cordon had the privilege of preaching to the people. 

/12 chimneys in the Chandeliers birst on lighting in the evening./ 

} I wrote a long letter containing two mamouth sheets giving an account of my travels from 
Montrose to the present time which I sent to Elders E Robinson & D. C. Smith by the hand of 
Elder Samuel Mulliner. 

8th I Sat in Council with the Twelve at the house of Elder Richards & spent the day at his house. 

I received three letters from Herefordshir. 

9th Father Peter Melling the patriarch of the the Church in England bestowed a Patriarchal 
blessing upon my head & also upon the head of Br & Sister Richards. 

10th I purchased a hat & travling bag. 

1 1th Sunday Sister Jennette Richards had a 6 Son born this morning 15 minutes past 10 oclock. 
He was as large & fine a son as I ever saw. His name is Heber John Richards. Sister Richards is 
comfortable. 

We attended meeting at the Carpenters Hall. Elder B Young Preached in the morning. I Dined at 
Br Brewshers in the afternoon we commmuned with the Saints. Elder Kimball & myself 
confirmed 9 persons. We took tea with Sister Katherine Betes the Prophetess. Elder Young 
Preached at night in the Carpenters Hall to an attentive Congregation of about 1,500. 

} We commencd a letter Historical & religious to E Robinson & D C Smith. 

12 Elders Young, Kimball, Richards Woodruff G. A. Smith bought each of us a broad Cloth 
Cloak all made Just alike. I spent some time reading the proof Sheet of the Book of Monnon. I 
bought two pair of pantaloons. I spent the night at Br Rigby's after taking supper at Br. Miller's. 

The People are much stired up in Manchester. Their will soon be persecution arise against the 
Saints in this town. The work is progressing. The servants of God have preached in the streets, & 
the town is warned & the methodist Preachers are much stired up against it. They gathered 
together at a house & sent for a young Brother, a Priest, by the name of James Mahon who had 
the gift of tongues to come & meet them & speak to them in Hebrew & if he did not speak to 
them correctly in Hebrew they would rise up against the work & try to overthrow it. They are 
watching for iniquity & trying to stir up the people against the work of God. 

13th I Spent a part of the day in reading the proof Sheet of the Book of Mormon. I spent the night 
at Br Richards in company with Elders Young & Kimball. I conversed much with Catherine the 
Prophetess. 

14th I parted with Bro Richards Young & Kimball. Took Coach & rode to Bursleto. I met many 
of the Saints at Br Johnsons. I felt vary unwell in Body & much depressed in spirits in 


Page341 




consequence of the awful persecution & trials which is manifesting unto me daily by the power 
of God that is soon to fall upon the heads of the Saints both in Europe & America. 

Brother Samuel Hancock Priest came to see me. Was some troubled in mind. He had a vision a 
few evenings before in the prayr meeting he saw much war, & trouble among the Saints. He saw 
a number of the Elders & Priest in the potteries tom from their families by press gangs, put in 
Irons, & forced to go to war, for war was sore among the Nations. A number of others had 
similar views & many of the Saints at the present time feel a great wait resting upon their minds 
as though great trouble awaits both the Church & world. Distance 36 m. Note(65) 

15th I arose refreshed by sleep but had a wait upon my mind, which has been upon me for many 
days the spirit of which manifests great trouble & persecutions of the Saints in general, 
throughout Europe & America & that many will fall away, that the U.S.A will rise against the 
church & that they will be driven from whare they are & that great trouble awaits the world 
universally. 

I had a long conversation with Catherine the Prophetess upon these things while in Manchester. 
She spoke of many things past & to come, & among the many things she says Br J. Smith jr with 
his Councillors are on their way to England & will be here soon. She says my family suffer the 
most for clothing of any thing at present. She says my wife has many sorrowful hours & sighs 
much in my absens. 

I herd a letter read while in Manchester from Doctor Foster to O. Pratt which contained many 
important items. He speaks of some of the prophesies of Joseph concerning the building of the 
house of the Lord in Nauvoo many trials of the Saints perils among fals brethren &c. I speak of 
these things because there are many testimonies in Europe & America as touching the perils 
which are at the door. 

I parted with the Saints in Bursleto & walked with Br's Bradbury & Vernon to Hanly. Called 
upon Br Tailor & others. Walked to Stoke Dined with Elder Rowley & friends. Then walked to 
Lane End. Found some saints morning because of the troubles which God had manifested unto 
them was at the door. 

I held a prayer meeting with the Saints. Elder Cordon was present. I exhorted the Saints to trust 
in the Lord & not in man. Then if any of the Saints or Elders denied the faith they need not fall 
with them for any man denying the Lord does not deserve a Commandment of God nor any true 
principle. 

4 were Baptized while I was in the Potteries. I spent the night at Elder Whittakers. Distance of 
the day 8 mile. 

I had an interview with Sister Eliza Bromley during the afternoon, & she related to me the 
following vision which she had on the 8th inst: 

Lane End Statfordshire Oct 8th 1 840 


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At one oclock at noon there came a deep sleep upon me & I slept one hour. I was awoke with a 
hand touching me. I looked around me & saw one s a personage standing by the side of me 
clothed in linen. His face had the appearance of much meekness love & light. I said Oh. He Said 
fear not. He came & touched me with his hand. Then fear departed from me. I said doth the Lord 
love me so much? He said it is thy faith in the servents of the God of heaven. Though hast 
Clothed the Naked & fed the hungry & the God of heaven will feed thee forever & forever & the 
desire of thy heart shall be granted thee in Gods own time. No weapon shall prosper against thee 
for thou art sealed up unto the Lord. 

Think it not strange when you see many fall away & some of the Elders of this Church for the 
Scriptures must be fulfdled. Many are Called but few are Chosen. Thou hast desired to see this 
day, & when thou goest to thine inheritants I will go with thee & take care of thee. One thing I 
say unto thee thou must not think because some will fall away from their stedfastness that they 
were not Called to their office. Some have desired their office & some will fall by their desires. 
See thou desire no one thing but that which is given thee from the father. If the Father gives a 
desire that will be the assurance of the gift, & as desire increases there will be the greater love to 
the servants of God. This is the mark the servants of God have to go by & is a mark Satan 
Cannot give. 

Be patient in all things & humble in thy walk before the world & the Lord will make the a 
blessing to thy friends & enemies. Thy tears have come up before the Lord & are more in number 
than thine enemies. Thy tears shall Condemn many if they do not repent. Love all thy enemies as 
Christ loveth thee for this is the Law of God. 

And I arose up & said I will, & he smiled & seamed as though he was going away. I said tell me 
sumthing els before you go. He smiled & said keep these from the world. I said must I not tell no 
one? He said thou wilt know by the spirit of God that is within thee who to tell. Thou hast asked 
for wisdom & it will be given thee. He turned around from me & a greater light overshadowed 
me & he disappeared. 


Eliza Bromley 

16th I took Coach at Lane end & rode in company with Brs Cordon & Burn through Stafford 
Wolverhampton West Bromwich to Birmingham. 44 miles. 

I visited Theadore Turleys fathers family. Sister Charlotte Turley was sick. I lade hands upon her 
& she was healed. I visited a Mr Parrott who was sick but he had an evil spirit in him that 
rejected the truth & I did not lay hands upon him. 

I preached at night at Br Joseph Tate 24 Park st Birmingham. This is the first time that I have 
Preached in Birmingham. There is 4 Saints in Binningham. Sever[al] others are ready for 
Baptism. There will be a spedy work in that town through the mercy of God & the labour of 
Elder Cordon. I spent the night at Br Tates. 


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17th I took the rail cars in Birmingham at 10 oclock & arived in the City of London at 3 1/2 PM 
being 113 miles in 5 1/2 hours. I took the omnibus & rode to 52 Iron monger row St Lukes 
London at Br Corners house. Here I found Elder GA. Smith. We were glad to once more meet 
with each other. We hired logings & sitting room at P. Morgan 40 Iron Monger row St Lukes. 

We have to pay vary high for evry thing here in the city of London lodgings, board, & sitings & 
evry thing else. With the greatest prudence we cannot get along much short of a pound per week 
each person & what few saints there are at present in this city are vary poor & not able to assist 
us at Present. But I trust in the Lord to soon open a door in this city whareby the cause of God 
can roll forth. But it certainly is the darkest prospect all things considerd of any place I have been 
in since I have been in the vineyard. But the Lord is with us & we are not discouraged. 

18 Sunday We met with the Saints at Br Comer's three times. Read in the Book of Mormon gave 
instruction & broke bread unto them. We had a good time though there was ownly about half a 
dozen present, & I felt the spirit of God bear testimony that there would be a work in London. 

We retired to rest in good season & I felt well in my mind & slept untill 12 at night. I awoke & 
meditated upon the things of God untlll near 3 oclock & while forming a detennination to warn 
the people in London & overcome the powers of Darkness by the assistance of God; A person 
appeared unto me which I considerd was the Prince of Darkness or the Devel. He made war with 
me & attempted to take my life. He caught me by the throat & choaked me nearly to death. He 
wounded me in my forehead. I also wounded him in a number of places in the head . As he was 
about to overcome me I prayed to the father in the name of Jesus for help. I then had power over 
him & he left me though much wounded. Note(66) 

3 personage dressed in white Came to me & prayed with me & I was immediately healed & 
delivered me from all my troubles. 

19th } I wrote two letters one to Elder Richards & the other to Elder Kington. I spent several 
hours in visiting the British Museum the acount of which is as follows: 

A Visit to the 
BRITISH MUSEUM 

London Oct 19th 1840. In company with Elder G A Smith I purchased a Book from which I 
make an extract of the following SYNOPSIS of the Contents of the BRITISH MUSEUM 
FORTY SECOND EDITION London 1840. 

("The foundation of the British Museum originated with the will of Sir Hans Sloane, who 
accumulated, in addition to a considerable Library of Books & Manuscripts, the largest 
collections of objects of natural History & works of art of his time. These he directed should be 
offered after his death which took place in 1753, to Parliament. The offer was accepted: & the 
Act of 26 Geo. II, which directed the purchase, also directed the purchase of the Harleian Library 
of Manuscrips & enacted that the CottonJan Library which had been given to the Government for 


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public use in the reign of Will. III., should, with these, fonn one General Collection. 

In the Spring of 1754 the mansion in Great Russell Street, then known as Montagu House, was 
purchased as a repository for the whole. Between 1755 & 1759 the different collections were 
removed into it, & it was detennined that the new institution should bear the name of BRITISH 
MUSEUM. 

Till the arival of the Egyptian Antiquities from Alexandria in 1801 Montague House was 
competant to the reception of all its acquisitions. The Egyptian Monuments, most of them too 
massive a character for the floors of a private Dwelling, first suggested the necessity of an 
additional building, rendered still more indispensible by the purchase of the Townly Marbles in 
1805. 

A Gallery adequate to the reception of both was completed in 1807, after which, although the 
Trustees meditated, & had plans drawn for new buildings, none were undertaken till 1823, when, 
upon the donation from his Majesty King George IV of the Library Collected by King George III, 
the Government orderd drawings to be prepared for the erection of an entire n[ew?] Museum a 
portion of one wing of which was to be occupied by the recently acquired Library. This wing on 
the Eastern side of the then Northern & a part of the Western Compartment of a Projected Square 
have been since completed. The Townly Gallery at present joins on to the centere of the Western 
Compartment & Montagu House the old building of the Museum continued to form the general 
front. 

On entering the Gate of the Museum from Great Russel Street, a quadrangle presents itself, with 
an Ionic colonnade on the South side, & the main building on the North; the side buildings being 
allotted for the dwellings of the officers. 

The house itself measures two hundred & sixteen feet in length, & fifty seven in hight to the top 
of the cornic. The architect, Peter Puget, a native of Marseilles, & an artist of the first eminence 
in his time, was sent over from Paris by Ralph, first Duke of Montagu, for the sole purpose of 
constructing this Splended mansion. It was the repetition of a building first designed in 1674 by 
Dr. Hook, which was destroyed by fire in 1686.") 

I again visited this Museum & went through evry appartment of it on the 9th of Dec in company 
with Elders B. Young & H C. Kimball. The foregoing account of this Museum is ownly its 
origen. They have continued to build & add thereto untill it covers or surrounds five acres of 
ground, & it now contains a vast number of rooms sum of them several hundred feet in length & 
this Museum now contains the greatest variety of curiosities of evry kind name & nature Ancient 
& Modern consisting of all Natural History, Beast, Fowl, Birds Fish, Serpents, ores minerals, 
Antiquities, of all nations Sculptures, Mummies, hieroglyphics & Papyrus. 

Though I felt interested in a visit to evry apartment of this Museum which is considerd the 
greatest collection in the world & open to the free inspection of the publick, yet I felt the more 
deeply interested in that Part Called the gallery of Antiquities esspecially the Egyptian. The 


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Antiquities consists mostly of Greek, Roman Jewish & Egyptian, & some british. Among the 
vast number of sculptures, was Nero, Trajan The God Ammon, Shakespere, Hercules, Apollo, 
Thalia, Diana, Domitia, Homer, Minerva, & hundreds of others. 

An article Called the Portland Vase is the choicest article of any one thing among the Antiquities 
as it is the ownly thing of the Kind known in the world. This celebrated Barberini Vase was for 
more than two centuries the principal ornament of the Barberini Palace. It was found about the 
middle of the sixteenth Century two miles & a half from Rome in the road leading from Fraseati. 
The material of which the vase is formed is glass. The figures which are executed in relief are of 
a beautiful opake white & the ground is in perfect harmony with the figure[s?] of a dark 
transparent blue. This superb specimen?] of greek art was deposited in the British Museum in 
1810 by the Duke of Portland. 

Among the Egyptian Antiquities, is a large number of Tombs coffins, mumies, Hieroglyphics & 
Papyri enough if translated into the English language to make one hundred volums as large as the 
Bible. I felt more interested in this part than any thing I saw as they were from three to four 
thousand years of age, & would no doubt if translated have revealed many glorious things Sacred 
& historical concerning the early ages of the world Abram & the Prophets &c. 

Having formed a intimate acquaintance with one of the overseers of the gallery of Antiquities, He 
explained many things to us concerning those things which were interesting unto us. 

We saw a Tomb said to be that of Allexander the great, & among many thousands of other things 
was Napolian Boneparte private snuffbox which Cost 300 guineas, A piece of the Tower of 
Babel, many lamps from Babylon, & many relics from the ruins of Hercuilaneum & Pompei, 
Many articles in Bronze, Roman Lamps, Dice & tali, Stamps for sealing casks, Roman weights, 
Mirrors with engravings, Celts, Bracelets, cups of crystal, agate &c Hinges & nails, Brooches 
Buckeles, locks & keys Spears & knives, Bits, Spurs, ornaments for harnesses fragmants of 
Chains, A Bronze Statue of Nero when he was Young. Though some of these are vary ancient 
they do not vary much in shape from those now in use. Many Antiquities & Greek inscriptions 
from Athens, And almost an endless variety of articles from all of the Ancient Cities of Greece, 
Rome, Egypt & Jerrusalem. 

Oct 20th } I wrote 5 letters one to O. Pratt to E. Bromley, to [I./J.?] Whittaker, to Young & 
Kimball to D. Browett. I spent the day in writing in our sitting room. 

2 1st ^ I wrote two Letters one to Elder John Cheese & the other to Edward Oaky after which I 
took an interesting walk through the City of London in company with Elder G. A. Smith. 

We walked from St Lukes to Nassau st. Middlesex Hospital. We called upon Mr B. 
SANGIOVANNI Sculptor & Modeller No 23 Nassau Street Middlesex Hospital, whose wife was 
the daughter of David W. Rogers of New York late of Montrose. She inquired much about her 
fathers family. They treated us kindly. He is an Italian. He was an officer under Murat of Naples 
but fled from his country with many other Neopolitan Officer at the time Murat was Deposed. 


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After taking some refreshment with them we walked through REGENT Street which for wealth 
splendor, & magnifficens, is not surpassed in London & probably not in the world. Panes of glass 
in this street may be found about 10 feet in width & 20 in highth & it would be impossible to 
describe the richness splendor & cost of the merchandize of evry name & nature through this 
street. We then called upon Mr James Nickolson near saint James Palace. We passed through St 
James Park. Had a view of many of the Palaces of the Royal family. We walked around 
Buckingham Palace. We saw the Iron Gates leading from St James park into High Park. They 
were each 10 feet wide 25 in highth 4 or 6 inches in thiknes when shut together would make 
them about 20 feet in wedth. 

We visited High Park & saw a large cast Iron monument containing the following incription: TO 
Arthur Duke of Wellington And his brave Companions in Arms. This statue of Achilles cast from 
cannon taken in the victories of Salamanca Vittori Toulouse And Waterloo. Erected the 18 day of 
June 1822. 

On our return home we called at the Lowther Bazaar, 35 West Strand, at the Magic Cave visited 
Annually by 60,000 persons The ownly subterraneous exhibition in London. 

We returned home & held a Prayer meeting at Father Corners 52 Iron monger Row St Lukes 
London. Distance of the Day 10 miles. 

22nd } I wrote a letter to Brother Thomas Clark. We hired Mr J. Barretts Academy 57 King 
square Goswall Street (the enterance Door in President Street) for three months to Preach in. I 
went to the printer & got 500 hand bills Published which Cost me 1 1/ this to give notice of our 
meeting. 

On my return from the office Elder Smith presented me with three {3} letters to read & also the 
No 10 of the Times & Seasons. One letter was from Elder Richards & one from Father John 
Smith to his son George A. & while reading it I was informed that my Daughter Sarah Emma 
Woodruff was DEAD. 11 This is the first infonnation I have had of it. May the Lord comfort 

her mother in her afflictions, & preserve her life & health & her Son for my sake. 

f I wrote two letters one to Brother Francis Pullin & one to Elder Samuel Warren. 

In the evening in company with Elder G. A. Smith I attended A Missionary meeting of the 
Weslian Methodist in the Weslian City road wesleyan Chapel London. It was considered one of 
the greatest missionary meetings ever held in the city of London. The chair was occupied by the 
LORD MAYOR of the city of London. He was a noble looking man. His watch guard consisted 
of six gold Chains which were large & heavy. 

The object of this meeting was for the wesleyan Methodist to send out foreign missionaries & to 
make collections enough to clear themselves of a debt of £50,000. The most Splended talents of 
Europe were gatherd together on this occasion. Ministers of the Church of Scotland, of England, 
& of the wesleyans were present in large numbers. 


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The meeting opened early & continued untill after 10 oclock. There was much policy manifest in 
this combination of ministers & Power of the different churches for the purpose of Gathering 
collections. I herd speaches from 10 or 12 Ministers. One Scotch Minister Says as he arose & 
addressed the chairman & meeting, My Lord & wesleyan friends let my tongue cleave in the roof 
of my mouth & my right hand forget her Cunning when I will not take a wesleyan by the hand & 
call him Brother. A Church Minister sayes My Lord & Wesleyan friends, I wish you while 
looking at the Church of England to cover her Imperfections with the Cloke of Charity & while 
observing the Church of Scotland to do the same & I would readily cover the imperfections of 
the Wesleyan Society but I know not whare they are. I would not hesitate to cover the 
imperfections of the Church of Rome was it in my power but they are all Scarlet. 

A Wesleyan arose viz Mr Robert Young of the Queen street Chapel & Says, We are highly 
favored on this occasion by having for our Chainnan the Lord Mayer of London the Chief 
magestrate of the most renowned city in the World & My Lordship has like Cesar Submited 
himself to the worship & acknowledgement of Christ, in this Condesention, but when rightly 
Considered is not my Lordship as highly honord in presiding over this vast body of respectable 
citizens this evening who have met together on so important an occasion as he would be to reign 
upon a Throne for the Angel in heaven honour evry effort that is made on earth for the spread of 
the gospel & the saving of the souls of men. 

My Lord & Christian friends, how did the Ancient Apostles prevail? They were illiterate & 
unlearned men. They had neither money, nor influence. Their doctrins were unpopular; yet they 
esstablished the gospel, Maintained the Doctrin of Christ & caused the Nations to tremble. Yet 
this was all by the power of God & not of man. My Lord our circumstances are different from 
thers. We have influence & wealth. We have Splended chapels & respectable bodies, & our 
numbers are many. Yet If God is not with us we cannot prevail." (I shouted Amen.) My Lord & 
Christian friends two things are necessary to accomplish the object of this meeting viz. the spirit 
of God within us & a Collection of money witho[.] sufficient to pay off our church Deabt & send 
missionaries abroad &c. 

Thus speach after speach was made untill 10 oclock when a collection was taken up After which 
the Lord Mayor of London arose & addressed a crouded assembly of about 3,000 person in the 
City Road Chapel (which ws the first Chapel ever built by Mr John Wesley). The Lord Mayor 
Says It is with pleasure that I have been pennitted to preside over this respectable body this 
evening on so important occasion the memory of which will be idelibly fixed upon my mind as 
one of the most pleasing events of my life, & I trust I shall ever be as ready to perform evry Duty 
required of me by the citizens of London as I have been to meet with our Wesleyan friends this 
evening. 

The house rung with applause, & the congregation dispersed. The Lord Mayor was conveyed to 
his Mansion in his private Carriage drawn by two Steeds whose hamess[es were] decorated with 
gold & Silver which were glistning in the Sable Shades of night. 


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But in the midst of all this Scenery who can imagin my feelings? None but those placed in like 
circumstances. Though I had a mission & a message to the Inhabitants of London & stood in 
there midst ready to deliver it as soon as God opened my way yet I was as little unknown by 
them as Jonah was to the citizens of Niniva while in the whales Belly & I Clearly Saw & realized 
that notwithstanding this great display of talent, Power & Policy, to send missionaries to the 
heathen they as much need an humble messenger of God to teach them the first Principles of the 
Gospel of Jesus Christ as Niniva Did a Prophet to cry repentance unto them. I retired home alone 
meditating upon the signs of the Present generation. 

23d [] I received two letters one from Sister Sarah Foss & the other from Brother Ilus F Carter. I 
was truly glad to hear from our Maine friends. We ^ wrote 3 letters one to A Cordon, one to G 
Simpson & one to W. Richards signed Woodruff & Smith. 

24th } We wrote a lengthy Lengthy letter jointly to Elder Elias Smith. I spent a part of the day in 
circulating & posting up our hand bills which contained the following inscriptions: "He that 
judgeth a matter before he heareth is not wise." The Latter Day Saints meet for public worship at 
Mr J. Barrett's Academy, 57 King Square, Goswell Road (entrance Door in President Street). 

Evry Sabbath at Three & half Past Six o’Clock, P.M. Also, on Tuesday and Thursday Evenings 
each week at Eight oclock. LECTURES will be deliverd by Elders WOODRUFF AND SMITH 
Late from America, Who respectfully invite the citizens of LONDON to attend. The first 
Principles of the Everlasting Gospel in its fulnes -The Gathering of Israel - The Second Coming 
of the Saviour -and the restitution of all things spoken of by all the Holy Prophets will be among 
the Subjects Illustrated. "The Latter Day Saints Millennial Star," published Monthly & other 
publications can be had at 52 Ironmonger Row St. Lukes, City press Long Lane Doudney and 
Scrymgour. 

25th Sunday We for the first time preached in J Barretts Academy at which Place we met about 
50 persons at 3 oclock & I preached unto them. Elder Smith Preached in the Evening, but it is 
the hardest matter to awaken an interest upon the subject of any place I ever visited. /After 
meeting I walked about 5 miles before I retired to rest. I had a pleasent 

Dream about ketching fish & eating fish./ 

26th 0 {SEW} We obtained a package of seven letters, one to H. C. Kimball from J Taylor on the 
Isle of Man, one from father John Smith [one?] [from] Elias Smith & one from Elder O Pratt, 
directed to George A. Smith & one from Hiram Clark one from Phebe W Woodruff & Albert 
Petty & one from Sister Margarett Smoot directed to W Woodruff. 

The Letter from Phebe & sister Smoot gave an account of the Death & burial of our Oldest Child 
SARAH EMMA, who Died July 17th 1840 being two years & three days old. The following is an 
extract from Sister M Smoots Letter: 

To the memory of Sarah Emma Woodruff who Died July 17th AD 1840 


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Thus the Iron hand of Death 

Lade heavy on & stoped the breath 

Of one who lived but to Beguile 

Our moments as if with a smile 

Beloved she lived beloved She Died 

Her fathers Joy & mothers Pride 

Beloved of all who did her see 

Yea & more beloved by me 

There was no bell here to toll 

But many a briny tear did fall 

With look our own hearts did tell 

Little Sarah Dear farewell 

Yes little Sarah lovly one 

Sleep on Sleep on, till Christ shall come 

Then thou wilt rise shake of thy dust 

And be numbered with the just. 

Brother Woodruff except of this piece of composition from one who had evry feeling but that of 

a parent for your departed Sarah. 


M. T. Smoot 


Phebe's letter was Dated July 18th 1840. The following is an extract: 

My Dear Willford, what will be your feelings, when I say that yesterday I was called to witness 
the departure of our little Sarah Emma from this world. Yes she is gone. The relentless hand of 
death has snatched her from my embrace. But Ahl She was two lovely, to kind, to affectionate, to 
live in this wicked world. When looking on her I have often thought how I Should feel to part 
with her. I thought I could not live without her esspecially in the Absence of my companion. But 
she has gone. The Lord hath taken her home to himself for some wise purpose. 

It is a trial to me, but the Lord hath stood by me in a wonderful manner. I can see & feel & [ | 

that he has taken her home & will take better care of her than I possibly Could for a little while 
untill I shall go & meet her. Yes Willford we have one little Angel in heaven & I think it likely 
her spirit has visited you before this time. 

It is hard living without her. She used to call her poor Pa Pa & putty papa many times in a day. 
She left a kiss for her papa with me Just before she died. She eat her dinner as well as usual 
thursday. Was taken about 4 oclock with a prestness for breath. The Elders lade hands upon her 
& anointed her a number of times, but the next day her Spirit took its flight from this to another 
world without a groan. 

To day Willford & I with quite a number of friends accompaning us came over to Commerce to 


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pay our last respects to our little darling in seeing her decently buried. She had no relative to 
follow her to the grave or to Shed a tear for her but her Ma & little Willford. *(67) *(68) I have 
just been to take a pleasing melancholy walk to Sarah’s grave; She lies alone in peace. I can say 
that the Lord gave & the Lord hath taken away & blessed be the name of the LORD. <May the 
Lord bless and [-] return [-] whole again as the power of your [ ].> 


P W. Woodruff 

27th We recieved two letters one from Cordon & one from W. Meigh. } We wrote two letters one 
to J Tailor & one to O Pratt. I Preached in J Barretts Academy. 

28th } I finished a long communication written to the Editors of the Times & Seasons Signed H. 
C. Kimball, W. Woodruff & G. A. Smith. It was a religious & Historical letter commenced 12th 
oct & finished 28th. I copied it off & it filled 4 Sheets full. I recieved one letter from G Simpson. 
We wrote two one to Cordon & one to W May. 

29th We Mailed two letters for America one to the Editors & one to Elder Lorenzo Bames. [] We 
recieved 3 letters one from Rushton one from P P Pratt & one from W Richards with a present of 
£ 1 . 

30th } We recieved a letter from Elder Hedlock & wrote him one in reply. :)■ I wrote a long letter 
to Phebe W. W. A Petty M Smoot, & G. W. Robinson. I addressed it to G. W Robinson P[ost] 
M[aster] of Nauvoo In answer to thers of July 18th. 

3 1st We recieved one letter from O Pratt & wrote him one in reply & mailed the one to Phebe 
&c. } I wrote a letter to Hiram Clark & we wrote one to Geo Simpson & one to R Rushton. I 
wrote one to Samuel Jones making 5 in all. 

November 

NOV 1st Sunday It seems to be a hard matter to esstablish the truth in the City of London. There 
is so much agoing in the city to draw the attention of the people that it almost required a trump to 
be blown from heaven in order to awaken the attention of the people to the Subject of the fulness 
of the gospel. I freequently think of Pauls perils in the city. Their was a great differance between 
Paul who was without purse or scrip & the Pharasees who had the large reward for Divineing. So 
it is with us in trying to warn London without purse or scrip. Still we have to pay high for all we 
eat drink, sleep, room, fire, Candles & a room to warn the people in &c & we are out of money 
but still we feel to put our trust in God. The Sectarians still have their Sailaries. 

} I wrote 3 letters one to Br & Sister Richards one to P. P. Pratt one to Whittaker. I preached in 
the afternoon in the Academy to about 30 & in the evening to about 50. We broke bread unto the 
Saints & their seems to be some interest manifest among the people this evening in inquiring into 
the subject. I pray the Lord to open our way before us. 

2d { JM} I received two letters one from my Mother Woodruff who informs me that Uncle 


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Joseph Hart is Dead. He Died [ ]. 

I also received one letter from Elder John Rowley, f I wrote a long family letter to Father 
Woodruff family in answer to theirs of Farmington Sept 30th. I printed it all & spoke upon a 
great variety of things. 

3d We recieved one letter from Osmond Shaw. Elder Smith & myself again visited the British 
Museum. I having formed a private or intimite acquaintance with Mr W. Palmer the keeper of the 
Egyptian Antiquities & It being a private day not open to public exibition he accompanied us 
through the various appartment & spent several hours in explaining to us the most important 
things relating to the whole collection of Egyptian Jewish Greek & Roman antiquities which 
were vary interesting. 

Among the hundreds of thousands of things exhibited in thes gallery's of Antiquities, Is the 
Portland Vase which was found about the middle of the sixteenth century two miles & a half 
from Rome in the road leading from Frascati which is the ownly thing of the kind now known in 
the world. 

We also saw Napolian Bonaparts private snuff Box which cost 300 Guineas. We saw the Tomb 
of Allexander the great, The head of Nero & Trajan the God Atomore, Lamps from Babylon, a 
piece of the Tower of babel, many relics from the ruins of Herculaneum and Pompei &c. 

Nov 4th [] We received 3 Letters. I received one from Elder John Cheese Containing a post office 
order of £2.10 a donation from the Saints. We received one letter from O. Pratt & one from 
Emma Cordon. We wrote one to O Pratt & } one to Osmond Shaw & one to Rowley. 

5th The Efagy of Guydo Fawkes is before our door this morning attended by about 100 boys. 
They are carrying him through the streets of London in memory of the great gun powder plot on 
the 5 of Nov 1605. 

I received two letters one from Elder [] Samuel Jones containing £1 & good news. I received a 
letter from Phebe & Elder Wm. Clark which gave me great joy. It was Dated Sept 8th 1840. Mrs 
Woodruff bears her affliction with patience & resignation having lost one Child & the other is 
sick, but her own health is quite good at present. She is at Father Clarks & comfortable for 
temporal things. 

Elder Wm. O. Clark says do not trouble yourself about Phebe & little Willford for they shall not 
want any thing that I can bestow & may God hold it as an everlasting covenant between me & 
thee. He further says the temporal state of the church was never in a more prosper state than at 
the present time. No mobing at the present time in the country but gathering vary rapid. A 
number of families arived from England. Phebe had had an interview with Br Wm. Benbow. 

} We wrote two letters one to Elder Geo. W. Robinson & one to Elder W Richards. I wrote to 
Phebe in Robinsons letter & gave her an account of all the letters I had sent her. 


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6th I mailed the Letter to Robison & Phebe at the American Coffe House. I recieved a letter from 
E Bromley. We wrote her one in return. } I wrote one letter to John Cheese, & one to Samuel 
Jones in answer to thers. 

I attended a Funeral in Saint Lukes Church. Herd the parson read a funeral ceremony which was 
solumn, & he committed the body to the tomb with the fullest assurance that she would arise in 
the first resurrection & have part in a celestial glory & evry infidel in england is buried under the 
Same Cerimony. This was in the largest Parish Church in London. John Wesley preached in it 
When he was living. 

Nov 7th } I wrote a full letter to Br Ilus F. Carter in answer to his. We wrote one to R Rushton & 
one to Whittaker. We recieved one letter from R Rushton & also a pamphlet from William Hewet 
in oposition to Elder G. A. Smith. 

8th Sunday We preached in the afternoon & evening & broke bread unto the Saints. But few 
attended meeting. It seems to be hard getting the attention of the peopl here in Fondon. 

9th {Joseph} *(69) We received six letters one from H. C. Kimball, 1 from Elder W. Richards, 
one from O Pratt, one from Theadore Curtis, one from T Kington, one from S. Johnson & they 
were full of interest. Elders Kimball & O Pratt both inform me of the death of Father Joseph 
Smith Sen. He was the first Patriarch in the Church of Latter Day Saints but he is gone & sleeps 
in peace. So our fathers fall asleep. 

Elder Kington Speaks of a letter He or the Saints sent me on the 24th Oct containing £2 which is 
lost. I went to the general post office in London to inquire about the lost letter & the post master 
took the matter in hand & said he would trace it out. I wrote a letter to Elder Kington ^ one to 
Elder Browett & ONE vary lengthy one to Father & Mother Carter giving an account of all things 
in this Country. 

This is the day that The Lord Mayor of London is sworn into his office or takes the Oath. It is 
Called Lord Mayors Show. It is a great day in London. The Lord Mayor is taken in a golden 
carriage at his mansion & drawn through the streets to Blackfriars Bridge. He there takes water 
lands at Westminster Abbey takes the oath & returns same way to his mansion. The streets have 
to be Cleared of all kind of veacles untlll the procession passes by. I saw the prossession pass 
with the golden carriges being two in No drawn by six horses each coverd with gold. 

Elder W. Richards informed me that it was the council of the Twelve for Elder Smith to come 
immediately to the potters churches to council them & spend some time with them as there was 
ownly about work enough for one in London. So he is making preperation to start early in the 
morning. These are busy times. 

I am informed the Lamanites are begining to embrace the work considerable. 

10th I took the parting hand with Elder GA. Smith who started for Birmingham so I am now left 


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alone again. *(70) I finished writing the letter to Father & Mother Carter & mailed it. I wrote 
lengthy & answered Sister Foss Letter. I wrote a letter to Elder W. Richards. I preached at 8 
oclock at the Academy. 

1 1th I spent the day in writing. 

12 } I wrote a letter to the Editor of the weekly Dispatch publish in London in answer to an 
article which he published against the Latter Day Saints. [] I received two letters one From Sister 
Ann Dawson to G A Smith & the other from GA. Smith. 

I walked through London city, crossed the bridge & visited Mr Allgoods family. They had been 
quite Sick but were much better. 

I wrote Br Amison } a letter & Also Elder G. A. Smith. I feel a little lonely here in London Since 
Br Smith left me though not because there is not people enough in London for there is plenty but 
a person is placed in a great variety of circumstances that is traveling in the world as we are. 

I preached at night & while preaching Br Wm. Pitt from Dymok came into the room. I was 
surprised to See him as I was not looking for any one. He spent the night with me at my lodging. 
6 m. 

13th [] I received a letter from O Pratt. I wrote :)■ one in return to him. I also wrote a letter to Br 
Browett. We took a walk to London Bridge visited St Pauls Church, the Bank of England & 
many other places. It was a vary rainy day & they think there is nothing worse than a rainy day in 
London. 

On our return home we found the people flung into great Confusion in Consequence of a visit 
from a Country Cow who had never been in London before & did not understand the Law or 
custom of the City & she began to Chase the people & when I Saw her men women & Children 
were runing for there lives & the cow at there heels & just before She got to us she drove one 
man through a door head first into a shoe store with her homes. She not being Satisfyed with this 
the next lunge she made She jumped head first thrugh a window in to a Tailors Store carrying 
window & Sash wi[th?] but not liking her position she Soon backed out & run down the street 
committing depridations as she went with her owner in a waggon upon a run after her. It was 
evident the Cow was mad Crazy & frightend or els she did not now how to act in a city. 

It was not long since that a mad Bull jumped through a large window in London into a China 
Shop & he Commit great damage for the more the China rattled around him the more he tore it to 
pieces & he was a vary unwelcome visitor. 6 m. 

14 A plesant day. We spent the day in visiting different parts of the city of London. We walked 
through the Oxford road. Went all through the Pantheum which was quite interesting. We visited 
St James Park & Buckingham palace. Her Majesty the Queen Victoria was there. We next 
visited the Westminster Abbey. We crossed Westminster Bridge walked up to London Bridge 
crossed it passed St Pauls Church & the Bank the general post office walked to St Lukes took 


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some refreshment & walked to Br Biggs 52 Kingsland Road. Returned. Passed through golden 
lane to Smithfield market & returned to 40 Ironmonger Row St Lukes London & spent the night. 
The distance of the day 15 mils. 

I dreamed that Charlotte Stanley was dead. After she was lade out I assisted to remove the Corps 
into another place. While doing this She Came to life which much Surprised me and as I Called 
her by name I awoke. I also herd in my dream that another friend was dead but I did not recollect 
the name. I think I shall soon hear from my friends. 

15 Sunday } <[ ].> I wrote a letter to P. P. Pratt. Sent him several peaces of a Newspaper 

viz abot the Latter Day Saints, Inundation in France with great destruction Election & fraud in 
the USA &c. 

I preached in the afternoon & followed Br Pitt in the evening, After which Several of the 
followers of Joanna Southcoat got up & detained the congregation by preaching there principles. 

There are several parties belonging to her society. This party that spoke call themselves the ten 
tribes of Israel. They gather to England which they consider the promised land. They wear long 
beards & circumcise keep the law of Moses & omit the first principles of the gospel Baptism &c. 
They are the ownly ones that will have a body like Christ. Abram all the prophets & Apostles 
will have a body inferior to theirs & will inherit a Celestial Kingdom, while they say they will 
inherit the kingdom of God which they Consider a far greater than the Celestial & they have 
many things to foolish & inconsistant to be believed by rational man. 

I communed with the Saints after meeting. 

16th [] I received two letters one from Elder Thomas Clark containing a gift of £1 in a post 
Office order, & one from Elder D Browett infonning me of the progress of the work in 
Herefordshire & Surrounding Country. [] I wrote three Letters one to T Clark one to D Browett 
one to T Kington & family. I spent several hours in conversation with one of the Israelites or 
Joannas above spoken of. 

17th I took the parting hand with Elder Wm. Pitt who started for Ipswich. May the Lord bless 
him I pray. [] I received one letter from Thomas Amison. I preached at night. It was a stonny 
night. 

1 8th [] I recieved 2 letters one from T Kington one from E & A Oaky. I printed a full sheet to 
Brothers Azmon & Thompson Woodruff. I had a long interview with five followers of Joanna 
Southcoat. They have many fals & foolish notions. 

19th [] I received 4 letters two for myself & 2 for G. A. Smith one from O. Pratt, from Wm. Pitt, 
R Hedlock, one from preston with no name. I had an interview with Joshua W Walker & with Br 
Hulme. I wrote a letter to O Pratt. 

I preached at night in the Academy. Br Hulme A Capt of one of Pickfords Boats on the London 


Page355 




canal was present with two of his hands, which he had Baptized as he was A priest. Br Hume 
spent the night with me. 

20th I [] received one letter from Elder Kington. } I wrote 4 letters, to R. Hedlock, T Amison, 

Wm. Pitt, & T. Kington. I dined at Pickfords wharf with Capt Hulme on bord of his boat with 
three Saint s. 

21st [] I received two letters one from G A Smith one from Wm. Pitt. I wrote 3 Letters one to E & 
A Oaky one to Geo A Smith, & Wm. Pitt. 

*(71) Victoria II was bom this 21st day of Nov 1840 at 2 oclock PM. The City Bells of London 
are ringing in celebration of the Same. So England has a Princes Victoria. 

22d Sunday I spent the fore part of the day in reading & Conversing with Father Comer & his 
family. I preached at 3 o-clock & at half past six 4 offered themselves for Baptism, but we have 
labcured vary hard & with much expens to accomplish little in London. But may the Lord roll on 
his work here. I broke bread unto the Saints. 

;}■ I commenced a vary lengthy letter this morning to Phebe. I made extracts from about 30 letters. 

I requested my wife to present it to the Editors of the Times & Seasons to publish such extracts 
as they thought fit. 

23d [] I received two letters from G. A. Smith & Wm. Pitt. I spent the day in writing in the letter 
to Phebe. 

24th ;}■ I wrote two letters to G. A. Smith & Wm. Pitt. I preached in the evening. 

25th [] I received a letter from O. Pratt. I wrote } a letter to O Pratt. I also received a letter from 
the Secretary of the general Post Office in London informing me that the letter could not be 
found which was sent me containing £2 two sovreigns which was robed or stolen. 

Nov 26th [] I received a letter from Br John Taylor. *(72) I mailed the letter at the American 
Coffee House which I wrote to Mrs Woodruff & the editor of the Times & Seasons, which was 
the largest letter I ever sent my wife. 

On my return from the Office I Called into an auction Store whare they were selling penknives, 
watches, time Peaces, which to outward appearance were vary Cheap but when closely examined 
it was found they were made on purpose for the auction Sale, & the manner of the Cockneys or 
London Kawkers would cheat men before their eyes is a caution to Yankies. <1 purchased a 
[card?] of knives and a [— ] which cost me> 3 <dollars dresses and a good [ — ]. > 

I preached at 8 o-clock & on my return to the House I found Br Pitt who had returned from 
Ipswich As Br Kington had sent for him, & when he left Ipswich the people ware all stired. Just 
as he was going to Baptize Several, Some of the pamphlets were sent them which are Published 
against us filled with lies which Stoped them for a season. So he did not baptize any before he 


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left. We spent the night together. 4. 

27th } I wrote a letter to Br John Taylor at Hanly. I spent Several hours in looking over the 
London papers of 27th from which I glean the following Items: The River Seine risen to five 
metres, in France A Law is voted by the Chambers of France to Appropriate 1,000,000 fiances 
for the reestablishment of the communications destroyed by the late flood & also 5,000,000 to be 
divided among the Sufferers of the Inundations of the Saone and Rhone. The Country around 
Paris is floded & the lower parts of the city inundated. "The floods & inundations of France of 
late has been dreadful & loss of property immense. I was infonned one River was turned entirely 
out of its course & a stone found in the bed of the River bearing the following inscription: (He 
that findeth me shall weep.)" 

Several Earthquakes of late in the Ionian Islands. Many persons have perished. The Jews & 
Christians In Jerrusalen have not the Privilege of gathering there own taxes. A man that lately 
visited Jerrusalem says there is 7,000 Jews there but much persecuted. 6 m. 

28th This is a gloomy day in London esspecially to me, for the whole city is envelop’d in one of 
the most dreary November fogs, which makes the air so dark & heavy that a person can scearcely 
see a rod in the streets at mid day. I again had an interview with Josiah W Walker 88 Church 
Street, Mile end New town White Chapel & he clearly manifested his true Character & the Spirit 
he was of. I lent him the Book of Mormon & he has read it several days watching for iniquity. He 
informed me he should publish against it. I told him if he wished to do so to go a head as soon as 
he pleased. I found his arguments against it were weak which hath been the case with all men 
that have attacked it. 

I walked out to see some of my friends in the afternoon, & I found the fog to be Cold & Chilly. I 
felt lonesom in the evening. I have been in my room alone ever since Elder Smith left me without 
any company as it were. 

[] I recieved a letter to day from Lorenzo Snow in Birmingham. 

29th Sunday *(73) I Preached twice Baptized & Confirmed three & communed with the Saints. 
These were the first that I have Baptized in London. 

30th [] I received a letter from Elder O Pratt & :( I wrote 2 letters one to O. Pratt & one to B. 
Young & H. C. Kimball. I took a vary interesting walk with Doctor Copeland through evry 
appartment of the College of Surgeons at Lincolns Infields which was truly interesting. I again 
visited the Same on the 7th Day of Dec in company with Doctor Copeland and Elders B Young 
& H. C. Kimball & went through evry appartment of it and was much interested. See Dec 7th 
1840. 


A Visit to the College of Surgeons 
At Lincolns Infields Dec 7th 1840 /London/ 


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After entering the building in front and passing through Several small rooms unoccupied, we 
entered a vary large Room mostly occupied with Skeletons of natural History of evry description: 
the Mamouth, Elephant, Lions Tigers & evry wild beast of the forest & Domestic Animals, & 
the Crockadile & serpent of evry kind & the fish of the Sea. This Room also contained several 
Skeleton's of the Human frame one which is vary Noted viz the celebrated OBrian. His Skeleton 
was 8 feet in highth & well proportioned. He was 8 feet & 4 inches in hight when alive. There 
were others of large stature. 

The Joining Room was occupied with a great variety of parts, & whole Human Bodies & Frames 
in various stages & states. Some bodies were whole & embalmed. One ownly that was Egyptian. 
Some [of] the skin & flesh was taken away & the bones arters & sinews left in their Natural 
State, which were prepared with the greatest pains & care. Parts of the body such as the hand & 
foot &c were in a prepared state with the Skin of Showing the veins, sinews, nerves &c. Many 
skuls were in this room Showing the effect of various diseases. A number of hearts were 
preserved in their natural state both from the Human & Animal Creation one from A whales. 
Their were four Rooms Above which we visited, Which Contained a vast variety [of] objects 
preserved in spirits, of evry description of the Human, Animal, Amphibious, & Serpentile race 
evry part of the Human body dissected & preserved in Spirits & many Human monsters, & 
children <from the first month of pregnancy to full grown childrens One vessel contained five 
small Children born at one birth but without life. 

There were some peculiar preperations both of natural History & the Human system by injecting 
quick silver in to the finest fibres of the body, which were all for the purpose of giving Surgeons 
a knowledge of evry part of the System, which was quite Interesting to an person feeling 
interested in the subject of surgery. 

On my return home I was soon Joined by Elders B Young & H C Kimball who had come to 
London to Spend a week or two. It was truly a treat to once more meet with these Brethren. We 
spent the night together. 


December 

Dec 1st This is the first day of winter. I spent the day with Elders Young & Kimball in visiting 
the City. [] I received a letter from Josiah Wesley Walker manifesting great Boasting & 
opposition against the Book of Mormon & we met for meeting at the Academy as usual at 8 
oclock. Elder Young Preached followed By Elder Kimball. We had a good time. 

2d } I wrote A letter to Elders Lorenzo Snow & A Cordon. O I received a letter from G. A. 

Smith. We all took a walk through the City. Spent several hours with Mr B. Sangiovanni, 
Sculptor & Modeller No. 23, Nassau Street Middlesex Hospital. His wife was the Daughter of Br 
Rogers. We Spent the evening in the City Road. Had conversation with a Frenchman. We called 


Page358 




into a shop. *(74) 10. 


Dec 3d [] After a long Days Walk through the City of London we returned to our room whare our 
friend Mrs Morgan presented us with a bundle of letters. {One} was from my Dear Phebe Dated 
oct 6th to 16th. It brought much news of interest. I also received 2 letters from P. P. Pratt. H. C. 
Kimball Received a letter from his wife Also written about the Same time, which was also 
interesting. Brother Young received 2 one from J Taylor & A Cordon. 

A Visit to the Tower of London 

I visited the Tower of London on the 3d of Dec in company ith Elders B. Young & H. C. 
Kimball. The following are short extracts from the History of the TOWER OF LONDON. 


The Tower is situated on the east side of the city, about eight hundred yards from London bridge 
near the bank of the River Thames. This impressive edifice at first consisted of no more than 
what at present is called the White Tower; and without any authority, has been reported to have 
been built by JULIUS CAESAR, though there is the strong evidence of its being marked out, and 
a part of it first erected by William the Conqueror, in the year 1078. *** It contains three 
Batteries. The first is Called the Devils Battery, Second Stone Battery [-] Wooden Battery 
mounted with Cann.*** (75)Note 

The Tower was a Palace during five hundred years, and ownly ceased to be so on the accession 
of Queen Elizabeth. Here observes Mr Penant, "fell the meek usurper Henry VI by the dagger of 
the Profligate Gloucester. Here full of horror died by the hands of hired ruffians, the unsteady 
Clarance. Who can read without Shuddering his dreadful dream, which Shakespear makes him 
relate to the Lieutenants (Richard III Act 1, Scene 4th). And here the sweet innocents Edward VI 
and his brother the Duke of York, fell victims to the violent ambition of there remoseless uncle." 

The Principal buildings are the Church, the White Tower, Governors House the Bloody Tower, 
the Offices of Ordnance of the keepers of the Records, the Jewel Office the Hors Annoury, 
Queen Elizabeth's Annoury the grand Store House in which is the Small Ann Armoury, the train 
of Artillery, and the tent room; the New Store House, wharein are three Store Rooms, Houses for 
the chief and inferior Officers, the Mess House for the Officers of the Garrison, and the Barracks, 
for the Soldiers. 

In addition to these there is a street called the Mint which includes nearly one third part of the 
Tower. The principal part of the houses were formerly inhabited by the Officers employed in the 
coinage, but now principally by the Military, Government having erected a vary extensive and 
majestic structure to the north of Little Tower Hill, for the business of the Mint department, with 
houses for those officers. 

The Grand Storehouse is north of the white Tower, fine building of brick and hewn stones; it 
extends in length 345 feet and is 60 feet broad. It was commenced by James II and finished by 


Page359 





William III. On the first floor of this edifice is that magnificent room called the Small Armoury, 
in which he, with Queen Mary his Consort, dined in great state having all the warrent workmen 
and labourers to attend them, dressed in white gloves & aprons. 

The Horse Armoury 

Here in one spacious room, 150 feet by 33 are arranged in regular and Chronological order, no 
less a number than twenty two equestrian figures, comprising many of the most Celebrated kings 
of England accompanied by their favorite Lords and men of rank all of them together with their 
horses in the armour of the respective periods when they flourished, many, indeed, in the 
identical suits in which they appeared while living. Along the centre of the ceiling immediately 
over each figure is a gothic arch in the centre of which is suspended a banner which in gold 
letters on both sides, expresses the name, rank, and date of existence of the personage 
represented. The horses stand, mounted by their riders, almost without any visible support on a 
floor of brick raised a little from the adjoining doarded flooring which is appropriated to the 
spectators. 

1. Edward I King of England AD 1272. The annour of this figure consists of the hawberk and its 
sleeves of mail, the hood & chausses of the same material. * This monarch is represented in the 
act of sheathing his sword. 

2 Henry VI King of England AD. 1450. This Plate armour is of the most beautiful fonn, 
particularly the back plate, which, like that of the breast is made of Several pieces to be flexible. 

* * * The Saddle of bone work is particular curious. 

3. Edward IV King of England AD. 1465. This is a complete suit of tournament annour, finished 
with the additional pieces termed grand guard, volant-piece and gard-de-tras. * * 

4th Henry VII King of England AD. 1508. This is a fluted suit of elegant form probably of 
German manufacture. 

5. Henry VIII King of England AD. 1520. This monarch appears in a suit of plate annour gilt. * It 
is impossible to give a Just summary of this prince's qualities, he was so different from himself in 
the several periods of his life. * In his youth he was sincere, open, gallant, and liberal; in his 
more advanced years, he became rapacious, arbitrary, violent, Superstitious, obstinate, unjust and 
cruel. He had six wives. After he had been married 20 years to the first, he grew weary of her and 
from a pretended scruple or conscience, put her away. His second wife, the incomparable Queen 
Ann Boleyn, mother of Queen Elizabeth, he beheaded upon slight ground of jealousy. He was 
weary of the third as soon as he was married to her. The immanent death of the fourth perhaps 
prevented an untimely one. The fifth was beheaded as her predecessor Queen Ann was, though 
less innocent than Queen Ann of the crime for which she sufferd. The sixth Queen Catherine Parr 
was a most religious lady, and was so able a Christian that she had nearly disputed her head off. 
Had the King lived a little longer he would probably have made a new choice. But he died Janury 
28 1547, after a reign 37 years and 9 months, and in the 56th years of his age. 


Page360 




6. Charles Brandon, Duke of Suffolk 1520. He also Is represented in plate armour. 

7. Edward Clinton Earl of Lincoln AD 1535. This noblemans armour is vary elegantly gilt, and 
his right hand rests on a mace. He wares a long fluted sword. 

8. Edward VI King of England AD 1552. This figure is particularly desirving of note both on 
account of its armour, which is what was termed russet and gilt in the most curious manner 
throughout & also for the fine Attitude in which it is placed. (Turn over 5 leeves continued.) 
Note(76) :}■ *(77) 

} *(78) 9. Francis Hastings, Earl of Hunting[ton?] AD. 1555. This is a suit of plate armour, richly 
gilt. Its wearer is resting the blade of his drawn sword on his left arm. 

10. Robert Dudley Earl of Eeicester AD 1560. * * He holds a sword in his right hand with which 
he is pointing. 

1 1. Sir Henry Lea Master of the Armoury A.D. 1570. He holds in his right hand a battle axe the 
head of which rests upon his shoulder. * * He was champion to Queen Elizabeth. * 

12. Robert Devereux Earl of Essex, A.D. 1585. This is a fine suit of armour inlaid with gold. The 
cantle of the saddle is vary beautifully engraved and gilt. In his right hand he holds a short Sword 
of curious workmanship. 

13. James I King of England, AD 1605. This monarch who it will be remembered was allso 
James VI of Scotland, wears a plain suit of armour. He holds in a perpendicular direction with 
his right hand a tilting lance, fourteen feet long, and two feet three inches in circumference in the 
thick part with which it was customary to run at th [. . .]. 

14. Sir Horace Vere, Captain General, A.D. 1606. 

15. Thomas Howard, Earl of Arundal, A.D. 1608. 

16. Henry Prince of Wales, Son of James I A.D 1612. This most beautiful suit of armour *(79) is 
highly deserving the attention of the curious. It is engraved throughout with subjects relating to 
battles, sieges, the burning of cities, & c and is richly gilt. The point of his sword rests on his right 
stirrup; a mace desends from his Saddle bow. 

17. George Villiers Duke of Buckingham, 1618. This * was the unfortunate favorite of Charles I 
who was assassinated by Felton. * * 

18. Charles Prince of Wales afterwards Charles I 1620. This figure represents him when 
apparently about twelve years of age. He wears a suit of ornamental armour. 

19. Thomas Wentworth, Earl of Stafford, AD 1635. The armour of this nobleman desends no 
lower than his knees. * * This celebrated statesman fell a victim to the rage of a factious 
parliament, and Charles I never forgave himself for yielding to their turbulent importunities and 


Page361 




signing the warrant for his execution, which took place on Tower hill 1640. 

20. Charles I King of England, 1640. The surface of this suit of armour is entirely gilt. It is vary 
Curiously wrought and was presented to him by the City of London when he was Prince of 
Wales. * * The King holds in his right hand a truncheon and the chan firon or head armour of his 
horse is furnished with a pointed spear between the eyes of the animal. This unfortunate monarch 
was beheaded on a Scaffold erected in front of his own palace at Whitehall, Jan. 30, 1649. 

21st James II King of England AD 1685. * * * * (80)He wears a sword by his side and has a 
batton in his hand and the Striking Contrast which his appearance affords when compared with 
the rest of the equestrian figures is well worthy of observation. 

Leaving now the examination of the last mentioned effigy and turning to the right we enter a 
small room in which is situated one of the outer doors of the building. On each side is a glass 
case Containing many vary Curious articles and some beautiful Specimens of pistols, carbines 
muskets fowling pieces &e of the respective times of Elizabeth James I Charles I and William III 
to which a considerable addition was made in the year 1838. 

In another case is a Mameluke Saddle coverd with Crimson velvet & embroidered with gold with 
Curious Stirups. A Turkish bridle and breast plate for horse with gilt furniture all from Grand 
Carlo. Here are also three swords a helmet, and girdle which belonged to Tippos Saib. 

We next enter the long room. We see various figures large as life, wearing the annour of the 
various periods in which they lived Kings Soldiers &c. One was for a man 7 feet high. At the 
extremity of the room is a crusader upon his barbed horse said to be 700 years old. The walls of 
the room & the ceiling are omimented with a great variety & number of arms and pieces of 
armour, ramrods bayonants pistols, swords & gunlocks put up in picturesque forms and devices 
among which is a curious representation of St George and the Draggon. 

Queen Elizabeth's Annoury 

This room according to tradition was the Prison of Sir Walter Raleigh. That it has been used as a 
prison there can be no doubt. * * (81)The great Strength of the walls of the white Tower are here 
vary conspicuous the eastern side being 17 feet 6 inches in thickness. In this room the spectator 
will observe various Spears that were in use in Europe before fire arms among which are the Bill 
the Glaive, the Gisarme, the Ranseur the spetum the Partizan the Spontoon the Boar Spear, 
Halberds, pikes &c &c. And a variety of Battle axes one two handed battle axe & two two 
handed Swords time of Henry VIII a handsom bright Target weighing 42 1/2 lbs and a vast 
variety of weapons of war that I have not room to mention. At the end of the room is a Spirited 
figure of Queen Elizabeth seated upon a Cream coloured horse held by a page. She is in a dress 
in imitation of that worn by her Majesty in procession to St Paul's when she went to that 
Cathedral in great state to return thanks and praise to the Almighty for deliverance from Spanish 
thraldom. 


Page362 




In various parts of the room. Instruments of Torture will be seen: The Thumb Screw, The Collar 
of Torment certainly taken from the Spaniards in 1588, The Bilboa or yoke, The Cravat, an 
engine for locking together the hands feet and neck. } *(82) 

The Train of Artillery 

This room is nearly 350 feet in length, containing a large number of chests containing arms in 
readiness for use, and also a great variety of Cannon. 

1. Is a gun made of wrought iron assigned to the time of Henry VI AD 1422. * 

2. A wrought iron peterara time of Edward IV 1461. 

3. Part of an iron gun which [w]as a chamber to a gun. 

4. A 36 pounder brass cannon 13 feet long time of Henry VII AD 1456. 

5. A 12 pounder brass cannon 13 feet 4 inches long of the Emperor Charles V AD 1509. 

6. A 68 pounder brass cannon weighing upwards of 5 tons said to have been used on the lower 
deck of the ship of war called the Great Harra. It bears date AD 1542. 

7. A 1 1/2 pounder flat gun of brass with 3 bores time of Henry VIII having receptacles for 
chambers from which the charge was fired. 

8. An octagon shaped 4 pounder brass cannon time of Henry VIII. 

9. A brass Cannon having 7 bores time of Henry VIII. 

10. A 20 pounder brass cannon time of Edward VI 1 548. 

1 1. A 2 pounder brass cannon (Dutch) time of Elizabeth AD 1581. 

12. A 3 pounder brass chamber gun time of Elizabeth. 

13.7 1/2 inch brass mortar time of James I 1610. Also a variety of old shot and a wrought Iron 
oarcase now obsolute. 

14. A highly ornamented English cannon made for Henry Prince of Wales son of James I 1608. 

15. A handsome 22 pounder English brass cannon made for Charles Prince of wales 1621. 

16. A brass ornamented 5 pounder cannon times of Charles II AD 1676. 

17. A 5 pounder brass gun, with 3 bores, taken at the battle of Ramilies time AD [-]. 

18. A 27 pounder brass Cannon much ornamented taken at Cherbourg AD 1758. 

19. A brass light 24 pounder gun time of George II 174[8?]. 


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20 A 42 pounder fine brass cannon 15 feet long brought from Java, AD 1811. * 

2 1 . An Iron 32 pounder upon its original carriage. 

22. * A Brass 24 pounder recoverd in the year 1834 from the wreck of the Royal George, * by the 
ingenious diving apparatus employed by Mr G. A. Deane, having lain under water 52 years. (* 
His Majesty's ship Royal George while lying on the keel at spithead on the 29 Aug 1782 and 
preparing for sea heaving on board a great number of visitors, as well as a full crew, was thrown 
on her side and sunk by which fatal accident 900 persons including the brave Admiral 
Kempenfelt were launched into eternity.) 

23. A 7 pounder brass cannon from Malta 17 feet 4 inches in length. 

24. A Brass gun time of Charles II. Remarkable on account of its extraordinary proportions. 

25 and 26. Two 25 pounders fine brass cannon taken from the walls of Vigo by Lord Cobham 
AD 1704. On the breech are carved the shins of Lions. The effigy of St Barbara to whom they 
were dedicated also appear s 

27 and 28 Two 15 pounders brass Lichornes taken out of the Tirkish frigate made at St 
Petersburg. Dated 1783 and 1789. 

29 and 30. Two beautiful one pounder brass guns highly ornamented mounted on carriages 
Presented by the earl of Leicester to the young Duke of Gloucester son of the princes (afterwards 
Queen Anne) who Died in his youth 1700. 

31 & 32. Two brass Morters taken at Cherbourg AD 1758 each weighing 2,840 lbs. The iron 
beds are English. 

33. A Brass Morter that will throw nine shells at a time out of which the balloons were cast at the 
grand display of fire works in the year 1748. 

34 to 45. Ten small cannon mounted on carriages presented to Charles II when nine years of age 
by the Brass Founders of London to assist him in learning the art of war. 

On a platform is a drum Major's Chariot, with the Kittie Drums fixed. * Also a grate heating shot 
with its fire irons. A remarkable Chevaux-de-frize, And one of the woodden guns named policy 
successfully employed at the Siege of Bologne in the year 1544, by Charles Brandon. * 

An extraordinary engine upon a carriage intended to throw 30 small shells at the same time from 
as many mortars. It is fired by a train. 

You now approach the flight of steps leading to the small Arm Armoury on the sides of which 
are erected two grand trophies of war consisting of cannon mortars &c. Eastward of the stairs is 
naval the most prominant feature of which is the actual figure head of His Majestys Ship 
Monarch of 100 guns whose keel was laid down in 1760 on the day that King George III 


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ascended the throne. * In the centre is part of the topmast of the Pearl frigate singularly injured 
having no less than 24 shot holes in it. Part of the shot are still to be seen Sticking in the mast. To 
the left of the mast is the Steering wheel of the victory the ship in which the gallant Nelson 
received his Death wound in the moment of triumph off Cape Trafalgar. A huge anchor taken at 
Camperdown, reclines against the mast. On the massive base are laid a number of cannon, some 
of them of vary large calibre most of which were taken in the great battles of the revolutionary 
war. 

A large brass Morter captured on board a French Ship of war in the west Indies with a variety of 
shot both old & modem date. 

Two beautiful small field pieces were captured at Quebec after the action in which the brave 
General Wolfe fell AD 1759. A Brass Morter weighs upwards of 6,000 lbs. & was employed at 
the siege of Namur AD 1695 by King Williams III. We assended the staircase leading to the 
small Ann Annoury whare we beheld a splended trophy consisting of anns & weapons ancient 
and modern aranged and grouped with much taste comprising nearly 200 varieties nearly all 
differing in form or pattern. In the centre is a half column supporting a bust by King Williams IV 
by Joseph. On it are suspended suits of annour a gilt shield battle axe &c. The mass is placed 
within a recess on a platform which is supported by eight brass 6 pounder guns taken at Waterloo 
that serve as pillars. The walls are adorned with large Stars & other figures formed of sword 
brass Scabbards bayonets and pistols &c. 

The Small Ann Annoury 

On entering this magnificent room we saw what was fonnerly Called a willderness of Arms but 
now so systematically aranged that in a few minutes we beheld anns for upwards of 150,000 men 
all new flinted and ready for immediate service. * This room is 345 feet in length. Round the 
whole of the Room is a cornice fonned ofDrums pistols & other peice of Armour. We saw many 
arms of all decriptions of various dates. Some curious carbines taken from the Highlanders in 
1715 the arms taken from Sir William Perkins chameck and others concerned in the assination 
plot, in 1696. At the east end is an Immense Serpant fonned of Pistols, and many other figures 
formed of armour. Also A machless brass gun which was taken from Malta by the French who 
landed there in 1798 and together with the eight banners suspended in different parts of the room 
wer sent by General Bonparte to the French Directory in La Sensible frigate which Ship was 
captured by the British Frigate Seahorse. The ornaments upon the gun are exquisite in 
workmanship as well as design And is the ownly one of the kind in the world. * 

The Crown Jewel Room 

We visited this room which was vary small yet it contained jewels and property to the amount of 
fifteen millions of dollars /25 million pounds sterling./ The following articles were named: 

1 . The golden wine fountain 3 feet high and of the same circumference. 


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2. The ancient Imperial Crown which was ownly laid aside at the Crowning of George IV. It is 
coverd with large jewels of evry colour. 

3. The golden Orb six inches in diameter edged with pearls and girded with precious Stones. This 
orb is placed in the kings left hand at the coronation. 

4. The Queens Crown is composed entirly of the Diamonds of largest size. It was made for Mary 
of Modena the consort of James II. * Its Cost is stated at one hundred and eleven thousand 
pounds. 

5 The Prince of Wales's Crown is of plain gold. * 

6 The Queens orb. * 

7 The Queens Diadem is composed entirely of pearls and diamond. 

8 * The Ampulla or Golden Eagle from which the sovreigns are anointed with oil at their 
coronation. 

9 The golden spoon into which the oil is poured to anoint the king. It is of equal antiquity with 
the eagle. 

10th 11. The golden Sacrament Dishes. 

(* One of the Warders remarked that all the arms in the Tower would make about 500,000 sta 
[..].) 12. The golden Chalice. 

13, 14, 15. Three swords in their embroidered scabb[ard]. 

16, 17. Two golden Takards. 

18, 19. Two golden salt cellars of state. 

20 A golden Baptismal Font wharein the issue of the royal family are christened. It is upwards of 
four feet in height. 

21-30. Ten golden salt Cellars used at the Coronation Banquit, And six golden Sceptres of our 
king & Queen. 

3 1 . Kings Septre with the cross coverd with precious stones. 

32. The Kings Septre with the Dove coverd with Jewels. 

33. An ancient Septre adorned with valuable jewels. 

34. The Queens Septre, * ornamented with large diamond. 

35. The Queens Ivory Sceptre mounted in gold. 


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36 The staff of St Edward the King and Confessor who reigned in the year 1041. It is made of 
pure gold four feet 7 inches & a half in length and weighs 8 lbs. 9 ounces. On the top is a cross 
and an ord wharein a fragment of the real cross is Said to be deposited. 

37, 38 The Kings golden Spurs And the Queens enamelled Bracelets. 

39. Moddle of the White Tower, set with jewels 

40. New Imperial Crown which was made for the Coronation of her Present Majesty. This 
splended and unequalled Crown is of the Imperial fonn with upright and almost pointed arches 
bearing a diamond mound or orb of the finest brilliants on the top whereof is a cross of the same 
precious materials adorned with three remarkably large pearls. In the front of the Crown is a large 
Jerrusalem cross entirely frosted with brilliants and in its centre a unique sapphire two inches 
long and nearly as broad of the purest and deepest azure." 


Thus I have written a lengthy account of ten pages concerning the Tower of London as there was 
such a variety of things to speak about and they being so obscure in their order that I cannot give 
a correct Idea of the contents of the Tower without writing leangthy. 

After visiting the Tower we walked to the Thames & waited for Elder Young who went through 
the Tunnel & visited it & purchased a pattern of the Tunnel for 13/ which presents an exact 
likeness of it. We then walked across London Bridge & returned to our Room in Iron monger 
Row. We held a meeting in the evening & Elder Young Preached. Distance of the day 10 m. 

Dec 4th Elder Kimball Stayed at home & wrote A letter to his Wife. I walked through the City 
with Elder Young. We visited Buckingham Palace & west Minster Abbey & went all through it. 
We then returned home. On our way we saw some London Foolery, in a cart one wax figure 
knocking Down another. <Distance of the day> 10 m. 

5th [] I received 3 letters from O Pratt Wm. Pitt, Allexander Wright. I walked out with Elder 
Young to try to find the Book of Mormon as we herd it was published & for Sale in London by 
some person unknown but probably it was a fals report. Elder Kimball received a letter from 
Arthur Burrow Presston. 

} I wrote a letter to Elder John Taylor. I also got a letter from John Taylor. I wrote a letter to O 
Pratt. Roberts Williams Priest arived in London this day & called upon us this evening. We 
walked to Islington & Passed by his Fathers House. Returned to our Room & spent the night. 10 
miles. 

6th Sunday Proved an interesting Day to us. Elders Young, Kimball, & William attended meeting 
at St Pauls Church in the morning. I met with the Saints at No [ ] at Father Corners & read & 

conversed with them. We all met at the Academy at 3 oclock. Had about 50 preasent. <Elder> 


Page367 





Kimball Preached to them. 


An independant Minister invited me home with him to take tea. I accepted the Invitation & had a 
good time. I preached the gospel to him. He received my testimony & offered me his Chappel 
that would hold 800 & he thought he should be Baptized & would try to get his society to Do the 
Same. 

We again met at half past six & had the most in our room that we have ever had. Br Young 
Preached & was followed by Br's Kimball, Williams, Corner, Hulme & Woodruff. We had a vary 
interesting time. One offered for Baptism. Some of the Aitkenites were Present. One [who] 
purchased a Hymn Book wished us to Call upon them & thought they would be Baptized. We 
then met at Father Corners & communed with the Saints & had a good time. 

I rejoice at the prospect that appears this day for an opening for I have laboured a long time in 
London & the work has gone slow but now it appears like a wide opening. May the Lord roll on 
his work Spedily I pray. 

7th We all accompanied Doctor Copeland to the collage of surgeons & went through evry 
appartment of it which was vary interesting. We next visited the National Gallery & other parts 
of the City & then returned to our room & took tea After which Elder Kimball Baptized one at 
the Bath at Tabernacle Square. Brothers Young Williams & myself walked into another part of 
the town, & saw what is called life in London. <We visited the Royal Theater at the Covenant 
Garden in which a [-] and got to the building. We were in danger of having our limbs broke. We 
had a [tour?] of the grounds scenery. The tour [-]> one <occassion> occassion <[-] was [-] of [-] 
dressed in what we looked like [lace?].> 8 m. 

8th Was a rainy day in London yet I spent the day vary pleasantly. We all concluded to visit St 
James Park, Buckingham Palace & the Queens coaches horses &c. Elder Young & Br Williams 
went on before us to see the Queens horse guard parrade, & as it rained they returned home 
thinking we should not come. So we did not See them during the whole days walk. Elder 
Kimball & myself with two of the Saints that accompanied us walked to Saint James Park. Went 
through the whole length of it. Their was a pond of water in the centre of it with many Ducks, 
Geese & Swans in it. We visited the Palace, Queens Stables as follows: 

Mews or Pimlico 

A visit to the [.] Stables of her Majesty 
Queen Victoria 

The first Stable we entered contained her state horses composed of 12 in number which were the 
most Beautiful Cream Coilcured Hanovarians. We also Saw 12 Arabians. The Hanovarians were 
the most Kind & intelligent for Horses or any thing of the Brutal Creation I ever Saw. They were 
about seventeen hands high & well proportioned. 

We visited all the Stables Containing her horses which were 150 in number which were kept in 


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the most perfect order for the Queens use. We next visited the appartments containing all the 
Harness for 150 horses. We saw the full set of State Harness sufficient for Eight horses, which 
were for Eight of the cream coulord Hanovarians, which were made by order of George the IV. 
They were coverd with gold plate harness for each horse weighed 150 lbs. Evry set of hames was 
vary expensive containing much plate. We had a slight view of the Queen's riding ground as we 
passed along. One of the Lords & others were riding at the time. 

We were all weighed in the Scales in which Prince Albert was weighed. Elder Kimball’s weight 
was 160, mine was 142 which was 2 lbs more than I ever weighed before. 

We next visited the Coach Rooms We saw all of her Private coaches a number of which were 
vary grand & expensive, & Lastly we visited her State Coach. The following is a description of 
it: 


Description 

of 

Her Majesty's State Coach 

Finished in the Year 1762. The most Superb Carriage ever built. Designed By Sir William 
Chambers & executed under his Directions. The Paintings executed by CYPRIANT. The front 
Panel. Britannia seated on a throne holding in her hand a staff of Liberty, attended by Religion, 
Justice, Wisdom, Valour, Fortitude, Commerce, Plenty, and Victory, presenting her with a 
Garland of Laurel; in the back ground a view of St. Paul's & the River Thames. 

THE RIGHT DOOR 

Industry and Ingenuity giving a Cornucopiae to the Genius of England. THE Panels of each Side 
of right Door. History recording the reports of Fame and Peace burning the Implements of War. 

THE BACK PANEL. Neptune and Amphitrite issuing from their Palace in a triumphant Car 
drawn by Sea-Horses, attended by the Winds, Rivers, Tritons, Naiads &c. bringing the Tribute 
of the world to the British Shore. Upper part of Back Pannel, Is the Royal Arms beautifully 
ornamented with the Order of St. George; the Rose Shamrock, and Thistle entwined. THE LEFT 
DOOR. Mars, Minerva, and Mercury Supporting the Imperial Crown of Great Britain. THE 
Panels of each Side of Left Door. The liberal Arts and Sciences protected. The Front and Four 
Quarter panels over the paintings are Plate Glass. 

The whole of the Carriage and Body is richly ornimented with Laurel and Carved Work, 
beautifully gilt. The length 24 feet, width 8 feet 3 inches, height 12 feet, length of pole 12 feet 4 
inches weight 4 tons. The Carriage & body of the Coach is composed as follows: Of four large 
Tritons who support the body by four braces coverd with blue morocco leather and ornamented 
with guilt buckles. The two figures placed in front of the carriage bear the driver and are 
represented in the action of drawing by cables extending round their Shoulders and the Cranes, 
and Sounding Shells to announce the approach of the Monarch of the Ocean: and those at the 


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back carry the Imperial Faces, topt with tridents. The Driver’s Foot-Board is a large Scollop 
Shell, ornamented by bunches of reeds & other marine plants. The Pole represents a bundle of 
Lances; the splinter Bar is Composed of a rich moulding issuing from beneath a voluted Shell & 
each end tenninating in the head of a Dolphin; and the wheels are imitated from those of the 
ancient triumphal chariot. The Body of the Coach is Composed of Eight palm Trees, which 
branching out at the top Sustain the roof, and four angular trees are loaded with trophies allusive 
to the victories obtained by Great Britain during the late glorious war, Supported by four lions’ 
heads. On the centre of the Roof Stands three boys, representing the Gen[tl?] of England, 
Scotland & Ireland, Supporting the Imperial Crown of Great Britain, and holding in their hands 
the sceptre, Sword of State, and ensigns of Knighthood. Their bodies are adorned with festoons 
of laurels, which fall from thence towards the four Corners. The inside of the Body is lined with 
rich Scarlet embossed velvet, superbly laced and embroidered with gold as follows: 

In the Centre of the Roof is the Star, encircled by the Collar of the Order of the Garter and 
Surmounted by the Imperial Crown of Great Britain, pendent the George and Dragon, in the 
Corners, the Rose, Shamrock, and Thistle entwined. The hind Lounge is ornamented with the 
Badge of the Order of St. Michael, and St George; and on the front the Badge of the Order of the 
Guylph and Bath ornamented with the Rose, Shamrock, Thistle and Oak Leaf. The Hammer 
Cloth of the same costly materials. The Harness for Eight Horses is made of red morocco leather, 
& decorated with blue ribbons, the Royal Anns & other ornaments richly gilt and it is used when 
Her Majesty goes in state, drawn by Eight Cream-coloured horses and is kept in the Royal Mews 
Pimlico." 

The foregoing is taken from a printed hand bill presented me by one of the overseers of the 
Mews, who Also informed me that one peace of cloth or triming belonging to the Coach cost 
£1,000 pounds. The whole Cost of the Coach Cannot be assertained, but it is an iramens Sum. 

The first story of the Mews is occupied by Horses, Harness, & Coaches, the Second Stories are 
occupied by the families of the Coachmen, & waiters of all description. 

Mr James West, Her Majesty's State Coachman, invited us to Dine with him and we excepted the 
invitation. We saw all of his State dresses which ware richly trimmed & ornamented with gold. 
One coat was exceding heavy in consequence of the weight of Gold it Contained. When we left 
him he made us a present of three small ornaments just alike for B. Young, H. C. Kimball & W 
Woodruff. It was Composed of fine polished brass about four inches in circumferance a lion in 
the centre & a crown upon the top. They were worn as ornaments upon the Queens State Coach. 

We walked from this Mews to the National gallery & after visiting all the paintings we returned 
home, somwhat weary after a long walk in a rainy day in London. Distance of the day 10 miles. 

The State Coachman infonned me that her Majesty would be quite familiar & even sociable in 
many respects, with some of her subjects but was kept distant by her Ministry. 10 m. 

Dec 9th We had a long pleasant days walk this day. Elders Young Kimball & myself Started 


Page370 




from No 40 Ironmonger Row St Lukes London in the morning & walked to St Pauls Church & 
not withstanding I had been over most parts of it before yet on this occasion we went together 
through evry part. We first visited the body of the Cathedral. See Aug 24th. I gave a description 
at this Cathedral, but in some respects it was incorrect being wrongly informed upon the subject. 

I make A few extracts from A printed description of the Church, which I purchased while passing 
through: 

* * (83)St. Peter's at Rome was 145 years in building under twelve [.] successive architects. But 
this building was completed in forty years under the superintendance of one architect, Sir 
Christopher Wren under the direction of one principal mason, Mr Strong &c. 

The whole expens of erecting this edifice amounted £1,564,874 14s 6p in addition to which the 
Stone and iron enclosure (which was cast at Lamberhurst, Kent) which Surrounds the building, 
cost £1 1,202 9s 6p total £1,576,076 15s, about $5,880,380 /5, 486, 361/. This sum was raised by a 
small tax on coal imported into London. 

In the Southwest transept is a noble Staircase, by which the ascent is made to the top. The 
number of Steps, from the floor to the whispering Gallery is 280; including those to the golden 
gallery, 534; & to the ball, the whole number is 616. 

A Communication from this Staircase leads the visitor, first to the Library, whare many most rare 
& valuable works are preserved. The flooring is remarkable, being most artfully inlaid, without 
nail or peg. It contains 2,376 Peaces, like the fraiming of a billard table. In this room is a * * 
(84)painting of Bishop Compton, under whom this Cathedral was built. 

The next is a vary curious Geometrical Staircase, being the first ever made in England. It has 
ninety Steps, all Supported by the bottom Step. 

* * * (85)The great Bell is in a turret above and the weight is 1 1,474 lbs.; the clapper weighs 180 
lbs. The diameter of the bell is ten feet, & the thickness ten inches. The hour of the clock strikes 
upon this bell, & the quarters strikes on two smaller ones beneath. The length of the minute hand 
is 9 feet 8 inch. 


And The Weight ... 75 lbs. 

feet 

inches 

The length of the hour hand . . . 

5 

9 

The weight ... 44 lbs. 

The circumference of the clock's face 

57 

0 

The length of the hour figures 

2 

2 1/2 


The next is the whispering Gallery, where Sounds are increased to an amazing degree: the 
shutting of the door, /seems/ is as loud as thunder at a distance; the least whisper is herd round 
the whole circumference; and a person speaking against the wall, appears to be Present to another 
on the other side of the gallery though the distance between them is not less than 140 feet. 

DIMENSIONS Feet 


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The dimensions of St Pauls Cathedral from east 


to west within the walls are 510 

from North to South within the walls 280 

the breadth of the west entrance, within 100 

the breadth of the west entrance, without 180 

To the top of cupola and base of lanthorn 330 

The roof within 110 

Height from the ground to the top of the Cross 404 

The Circumference of the dome 420 

The diameter of the Ball 6 

From the bottom of the ball to the top of the 
Cross 30 

Hight of Pillars in front of Porticos 40 

The weight of the ball is 5,600 lbs 
The weight of the Cross 3,360 lbs. 


The extent of the ground whareon St. Pauls' stands is two acres Sixteen perches, twenty three 
yards and one foot. The Stone Lanthorn which takes its rise from the top of the brick cone or 
inner dome, is reputed to be of the enormous weight of seven hundred tonsl From the whispering 
Gallery, the beautiful marble flooring of the church may be seen to great advantage, consisting of 
many thousand pieces laid chequerwise like a draft bord black & white squares alternately; the 
centre of which represents a mariner's compass, (the thirty two cardinal Points) being laid in 
white & red marble. In the centre is a brass Plate beneath, which in a splended tomb, repose the 
remains of the Immortal Nelson, the coffins of Lords Coilingwood and Northesk lie on each side 
of him; and Lady Nelson and other members of the family, are also buried near him. 

The first public monument erected in this Cathedral was to the memory of John Howard in 1796 
by Bacon. The following monuments have been erected since that period: To Lord Nelson by 
Flaxman, & over it one to Captain Duff: to Marquis Cornwallis, by Rossi & over it one to 
Captain John Cooke of the Bellerophon; to Major General Dund [..] by Bacon Jun. & over it one 
to Generals Mackenzie and Langworth; to Captain Westcott by Banks, and over it one to 
Generals Crawford and Mackinnons to Capt Burgess, by Banks and above it one to Captain 
Hardinge, by Manning; to Captain Faulkner by Rossi, and above it one to Capt Miller. 

In the south transept are the monuments of Earl Howe, by Flaxman; Sir Ralph Abercrombie and 
Lord Coilingwood, by Westmacott; Sir John Moore, and Sir Isaac Brock, by Bacon, Jun. Sir 
William Hoste, by Campbell; Major General Gillespie by Chantry; and Dr Badington, by Bhenes. 

In the north transept are the monuments of Captains Moss[.] and Riou by Rossi; Lord Rodney, by 
the same; Major General Hay by Hopper, General Pieton, Ponsonby, and Bowes, by Chantry; Le 
Marchant by J. Smith; General Ross, and Sir W Myers, by Kendrick; Colonel Cadogan, and 
General Hough[..] by Chantry; Samuel Johnson, by Bacon; Sir Joshua Raynolds by Flaxman; and 
Sir W Jones, By Bacon. 


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Those last erected are to the memory of Dr. Middleton first protestant Bishop of India, by Lough 
and Dr. Heber, Bishop of Calcutta, by Chantry. 

In the Crypt of the Cathedral are many tombs to the memory of eminent men; among them, 
Robert Milne, the architect of Blackfriars Bridge; John Rennie, the designer and contractor of 
Waterloo and Southwark Bridges, Plymouth Breakwater, and Sheerness Docks: a plain tomb 
shows the spot whare Sir Christopher Wren is buried with ownly the name age and date of his 
death; the Cathedral being considerd monument enough to hand his name down to Posterity. 

In a recess under the east window are the ownly few remains of the old Church to be seen that 
escaped the great fire of London in which the old Cathedral was destroyed. A figure of Dr. 

Donne in his Shroud. Sir Nicholas Wootten, and his sister Lady Jane Wootten, Lady in waiting to 
Queen Mary. 

In the east end of the crypt lies the remains of Sir Thomas Lawrence, John Opie, James Barry, G. 
Dawes, Benjamin West, Sir Joshua Reynolds, Henry Fuseli, and G. Dance, Presidents, &c. of the 
Royal Academy &c &c. 


The following was upon the stone of the vault of Benjamim West: 

Here lies the remains of Benjamin West Esq. President of the Royal Academy of Paintings 
Sculptures & Architecture. He was bom at Springfield, Chester County Pennsylvania North 
America 10th Oct 1639. Died at London March 1 1th. 

Mr West was one of the first Artist of his day. Much of his painting is in the National Gallery & 
other parts of London. 

Having given lengthy extracts Concerning the cathedral, I will procede with an account of our 
travels. From the first enterance we visited the whispering gallery golden gallery. From thence to 
the Ball. We all three sat in the Ball together 400 feet from the ground. We desended, visited the 
Library the Bell the Clock & finally evry part of the building whare any visitors go & some 
places whare vistors do not go & last of all we visited evry part of the crypt among all the tombs. 
It cost us 4/0 each to visit evry part of this cathedral. We Next went on to the top of the London 
Monument. We walked up & down 345 marble steps in visiting this monument, which was 202 
feet high. We then crossed London Bridge walked to the Southwark Bridge which is all Cast 
Iron, forty five rods in length. We walked under it & viewed it & then Crossed it. We then Dined 
together in the City took a calb & rode to the British Museum & walked through every 
appartment of it, which covered about 5 acres of Ground. 

We then took a calb & returned to our room in Ironmonger Row vary weary & spent the night, 
Having travled 12 miles, & walked up & down 1,200 steps which made us feel sumwhat sore. 
However we enjoyed a good nights rest. 12 m. 


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(Dec 10th [] I recieved a letter from Elder Hedlock, Elder Young one from P. P Pratt containing 
£5. We walked over Black Friars Bridge. Called at Zions Chapel, to attend a sacrament meeting 
at Mr Aitkens Society, but they knowing who we were refused to let us in, fearing lest we should 
break up their Society. We then crossed over the Waterloo Road & returned home. We attended 
meeting in the evening. I Preached. Was followed by Elders Kimball & Young, who bore strong 
testimony to the people. 6 miles. 

1 1th I walked with Elder Young to the great western Railway & took the parting hand with him 
& he Started for Cheltenham. I returned & spent the day in writing. [] I received a letter from 
Elder Lorenzo Snow. I visited Mr James Albon 9 1/2 Spencer place Goswell Road. He is a 
preacher of the Independant order. He & his houshold manifests faith in our doctrin. 10 miles. 

12th :)■ I wrote a few line to Phebe in Elder Kimballs letter to his wife, & acknowledged the 
reception of her letter of oct 6 to 19th. I wrote in my Journal.) 

^ *(86) We saw Cannon Shot chiefly made of wrought iron, namely, spike shot star shot, chain 
shot, and saw shot, A Beheading axe of singular fonn. This has long been named as the axe 
which took of the head of Queen Anne Boleyn.*(87) It is also Said to have beheaded the earl of 
Essex. 

In going into the grand storehouse we pass the front of the Horse Annoury we observed two 
French brass mortars which were brought from Acre in the year 1799. 

Dec 13th Sunday We met with the Saints at 2 oclock & broke bread unto them. Elder Kimball 
Preached at 3, and I Preached at half Past six. We had a good time all day. Their is begining to be 
more interest manifest in London than ever before. 

14th [] I received a letter from William Pitt. I spent the Day in writing & had an interesting Prayr 
meeting at our meeting room. Mr Albon was present & recieved our testimony & spoke in favor 
& we walked home with him & found his houshold believing. 

} I wrote a letter to Elder O Pratt & one to G A Smith with Elder Kimball. 

15th [] I received a letter from Br Griffiths at Woolwich. I spent the day in writing in my Journal 
the history of London Tower. 

16 *(88) I spent the day in writing. Br Williams left us in the morning for Bedford. At 7 oclock in 
the evening we repaired to a bath in Tabernacle Square & we Baptized 4 persons & we had a 
good time though it was Cold weather & snowed most of the day. The two first Baptized was Mr 
& Mrs Morgan with whome we have made it our home since we first came to Ironmonger Row 
40 St Lukes. The other two was Henry Comer jr. & Christopher Smith, their Apprentice. I rejoice 
in thes things that the number of the Saints increases in London, for it has been a hard case & the 
work has been slow from the begining but I pray God that it may roll on from this day forward. 


Page374 




[] I received an interesting letter from Sister Eunice Woodruff Farmington Nov 26-28. She 
acknowledged the reception of my two letters one of the Date of Aug 10th & the other a long 
Mamouth Sheet printed full of Nov 2d which they received on the 27 making 25 days from time 
it was wrote, & I recieved theirs in 16 Days. She spoke about the health of my father & family & 
other friends. It is truly cheering to have good news from a far Country & to hear from our 
friends by letter. 

17th Doctor Copeland spent the afternoon with us. He received our testimony. We had a good, 
time with him. Snow stonn. We preached in the evening. 

Dec 18th } I wrote three letters to Wm. Pitt, R. Hedlock & Lorenzo Snow. The London Times 
informs us that the British Flag is begining to be waved for the first time in parts of the Chinease 
empire. Also that the Jews are restored in Jerrusalem to their own rights again, having equal 
privileges as other nation. Also that the remains of Napolitan Bounaparte have been conveyed to 
Paris in the midst of great splendor & pomp. 

19th [] I received a letter from G D Watt & O Pratt & the 1 1 & 12 Numbers of the times & 
Seasons which truly brought us cheering news from America. 

f I wrote 2 letters one to James Blakesley one to John Griffiths. I dreamed of attending a great 
conference in London with the 12 & many Saints. O. Hide & J. E. Page was present. 

20th Sunday We accompanied Mr Albon the preacher of the Independant Church to his Chapel in 
the morning. I had visited him several times & gave him an account of the rise & progress of the 
Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. He received my testimony & offered me his Chapel 
to Preache in which will seat about 2,000. We were introduced to the commity of the chapel in 
the morning. One was A preacher who had travled much in Russia & other parts of the world. At 
the Close of the meeting Mr Albon gave out an appointment for us to Preach in the chapel next 
Sabbath evening. 

We met with the saints in the afternoon as usual & broke bread unto them, & confirmed four. We 
had a full house. We also preached in the evening, & good feeling prevaled. 

After retiring to our room Mr Albon called me & Said that he gave out our appointment for us to 
preach in his Chapel, & had informed his congregation that he was A Latter Day Saint, & should 
be Baptized & Join the Church & that they need not consider him any longer a member of their 
body unles they would Join the Saints. He Said it made a division among the commity. Some 
were for going with him & some opposing. 

I thank God that there begins to be a little Stir in this City. We have had some good dreams of 
late about ketching fish & I hope we may soon realize it by Baptizing many Souls for we have 
laboured hard in this City for many weeks & with great expens & baptized as yet ownly 19 souls. 
But we will not despise the Day of Small things but hope for more. 


Page375 




I also had an interview with a gentleman that had been a member of the Irvinite Society but had 
left them. He attended our meeting. 

We retired to rest & I dreamed of ketching fish, fowl, geese & Turkies, in nets, & seeing a house 
on fire. Elder Kimball also Dreamed of casting a net & ketching a good hall of fish, two large 
ones, & gathering fruit. So I think sumthing will be done soon. 

21st [] I wrote a letter to Elder Allexander Wright, Scotland. We spent the afternoon with Doctor 
Copeland. We accompanied him in the evening to the <Theater Royal, [ ] Lane> Concerts 
d'Hiver, (which is a new invento[r?] musical performance composed of the choisest band of 
music in the world of about 100 musicians mostly Gennan & French conducted by) "Mr Eliason" 
(His first appearance this season) which is the first start of any thing of the kind in modern days". 
It manifested the greatest perfection in music of any thing known. It was composed of almost 
evry instrument of music in use, & by having a view of it it gave us a knowledge of the art of 
man, & what could be perfected with instruments of music. 

Distance of the day 8 miles. 

22d [] I receieved a letter from George Simpson & wrote him one in return. We walked to Mr 
Sangivanni’s & He went with us to Mr Filippo Pistrucci who is also an Italian at 40 Charlotte 
Street Fitzroy Square London for the purpose of getting our likeness taken. He commenced a 
rough draft of both. We held a prayer meeting. 7 mile. 

Dec Wednesday 23d I Called upon Mr Filippo Pistrucci 46 Charlotte Street Fitzroy Square & I 
took my first sitting of two hours & a half for him to take my Portrait. 0 1 conversed with Him 
upon the subject of religion. He had formerly belonged to the Catholic faith but seeing so much 
iniquity in the Priest while in Itily He denyed & rejected the Roman religion & wrote against all 
religions, but is now convinced of the reality of the gospel of Jesus Christ & is writing a work in 
the Italian language, advocating the gospel of Jesus Christ & opposing Priestcraft. 

I gave him a rehearsal of the doctrin we believed in & the progress of the Church. He seemed 
much interested in it & Said he believed as we did. While in the midst of my conversation Elder 
Kimball Called upon me & I took a walk with him & Doctor Copeland & his wife over 
Blackfriars Bridge & on our return home in the midst of a croud, we lost Br Kimball & Sister 
Copeland & in looking them up I lost Doc Copeland, & Br Kimball Sister Copeland so that there 
was no two of us out of four to gether. But after being seperated awhile we all four providentially 
met at the Covnant Garden, & saw the wonderful performance of Shakespears night dream. 
Madan Vestry & c & returned home. Distance of the Day 15 mil. 

[] I receive a letter from Elder H Glover. 

24 ^ I wrote a letter to H. Glover & one to G. D. Watt & O. Pratt. This being Christmas Eve Elder 
Kimball & myself walked out into the Streets to See for a moment what the Busy multitude were 
about. We Passed through Mutton Street as G. A. Smith Calls it, opposite Saints Lukes Church. 


Page376 




It was a market Street for evry kind of flesh & vegitable. We bought one doz Orranges one Doz 
apples, some Hazelnuts, Chestnuts. 

Returned to our sitting room, & in addition to some bread & Cheese & a pint of beer we made 
out a supper & went to bed, & I dreamed of falling among thieves & robbers, who tried to rob us 
under pretence that we had done sumthing wrong in London some years since. I told them we 
never had been in London untill within few months that we were Americans & had a family 
there, & we had come to preach the gospel & we would preach to them, if they would open their 
doors & after bothering awhile with them I awoke, & found it to be the first Christmas Eve I ever 
Spent in London. 

25th CHRISTMAS Day In LONDON The Church Bells throughout the city commenced 
Chanting for meeting at half past ten. We met with the Saints at Father Corner Room Georges 
Row 24, at 1 1 oclock & we tought the Saints Some plain principles, which had a good effect. 

We took our Christmas dinner with Br Morgan. He had his family at home with him. The Dinner 
Consisted of Baked Mutton Goose, Rabit Pies, Minced Pies, & Plum Pudding & bread & cheese, 
Porter & water. We spent the evening at Mr Albums in conversing about the things of God. We 
returned home. After sitting an hour with the family we retired to rest. 

This is the first Christmas I ever spent in England. Whare I shall be next Christmas day the Lord 
ownly knows, & what a year to come will bring forth we Cannot tell, But may the Lord preserve 
my life, my wife & Child in peace I pray & enable all the Saints to be esstablished in 
righteousness. Christmas is Considerd the greatest of all days in England. 

26th Saturday I wrote a letter to Br Wm. Pitt. } Had an interview with Doctor Copeland. Then 
walked to Mr Sangiovanni, 23 Nassau Street. We found him quite unwell. We Dined with him & 
his wife. The Dinner was composed of Italian Maccaroni, (Lasagna) Beef Plum Puddings, Nut 
Cakes, Porter, wine, Oranges &c. 

We spent quite a plesent evening in Conversing with Mrs Susannah M Sangiovanni, concerning 
the gospel & the Kingdom of God. She received our testimony & desires to be Baptized with all 
her heart. She Conversed much about her fathers family & friends in America. We spoke of our 
wives & children which we had been long seperated from. 

On our retume home we Called upon Br Corner who we found unwell, with a bad Cold. We also 
saw a female who had just been run over by an Omnibus who was badly wounded. Distance of 
the day 8. 

We read in the London times an interesting account from the Gennan Jews a universal call for 
them to return to Jerrusalem. 8 m. 

27th Sunday We met with the Saints & Communed with them & had a good time, & in the 
evening we met at An independant Chapel or Ebenezar Chapel Commercial Road. There was the 
largest congregation that we have ever preached to in London consisting of many Denominations 


Page377 




of Priest & People. I preach about one hour. A wesleyJan Preacher arose & opposed me, which 
had a good effect for the people seeing the spirit he was off turned against him & the commity 
refused his speaking there anymore. I did not have the spirit of Preaching much in consequence 
of the power of opposition. Still the conduct of the opposing Party gave us friends. But I never 
saw a harder Place than London to build up a Church im But I Pray the Lord in the name of Jesus 
Christ that our labours may not be in vain in this City. We dined to Day with Doctor Copeland. 
<Distance of the day> 10 mils. 

28th I [] Received 2 letters from James Blakesly & John Griffitts. I wrote a letter } to G. A. 

Smith. 

[] I attended a Tea Totaler Temperance meeting held in a Theater in Milton Street, which was 
considerd the greatest temperance meeting held in London. I was accompanied by Elder Kimball 
& Doctor Copeland & two other Saints. The Chair was taken at an early hour by one of the most 
celebrated & noted men of the last days viz. James Silk Buckingham, Esq. Denominated in his 
writings & Publications J. S. Buckingham. I know of no man that has traveld more extensively, 
among all nations in the nineteenth centaury than Mr Buckingham. His travels in Asia & 
esspecially in India have been Published through the United States & been read with much 
interest, & Mr Buckingham had just returned to London from a tour through the United States 
whare he had Spent two years in visitng nearly evry city & town from Bangor to New Orleans, & 
New York to St Lewis. Therefore I felt the more interested in hearing an address from him. 

The house was filled. We obtained a comfortable seat in front of him, & in consequence of our 
making Some Speaches is London in some of the Temperance meetings in advocating that cause, 
Some of the Committy infonned Mr Buckingham that we were American Citizens & friends to 
the cause, which Caused him to notice us vary particular while in his address & giving ad [. . . .] 
his late travels through the United States. He spoke of his Landing at New York & holding 
temperance meetings in that City & in Phelidelphia & Boston, Portland, Bangor & through the 
Southern States Augusta, New Orleans, Charleston. Went up the Missisippi River. Held a camp 
Meeting at Lexington. Called at St Louis. Crossed the Country through Illinois & Iowa extolled 
the country. Spoke of the beauty of the prairies. Called at Chicago. Went through the whole 
length of the Lakes, through Upper & lower Canida. Held a temperance meeting in the 
Parliamentary house, as he also did in the house of congress, & then returned to England, & will 
publish in book fonn his travels. In his speech he gave much prefferance to America as being 
ahead of any other nation in Temperance & Education & perseverance & other things that he 
spoke of. He done justice to the beauty of the Country fertility of the Soil & quality of the people 
&c. 

Mr Buckingham is an aged man but possesses great intelligence intellectual powers, knowledge 
of human Nature, the most profound reasoner, & humble in his appearance. 

After Mr Buckingham closed his speech, several speaches were deliverd by others, & the 
intervals occupyed by a band of music, after which the room was darkened by removing the 


Page378 




lights & a Show was Presented in the form of a Magic lantern presented a man in evry stage of 
drunkenness, & a score of other things rivers, ships, cities, Lions Leopords, Bonaparte Victoria, 

& many other things, & we retired Quite satisfyed with our evenings entertainment. 8 miles. 

29th Elder Kimball went to take a sitting for his portrait. I Staid at home & wrote. I sent G. A. 
Smith a letter a paper called The Penny Satirist containing a long account about the Latter Day 
Saints taken from the Mill Star. We attended meeting at the Academy. Called & Spent a Short 
time with Mr Album, & returned home, & I dreamed of being in the midst of Serpents, & a Tiger 
came & guarded me in the midst of my Enemies. I next went through Samuel Demining's Bams 
to find Brother Azmon Woodruff. I thought I saw him there. I dreamed of Seeing Brother Azmon 
& Thompson much of late. I think I Shah Soon hear from them. 

30th [] We received 5 letters 2 to me from G A. Smith & Wm. Pitt H C Kimball 3 from O. Pratt, 
Br Harris, & Wm. Kay Herefordshire. Elder Kimball walked out with Mr James Album in to 
another Part of the City & had a good time. I also walked out & visited Mr Hender, No 4 Garden 
Court, Huh Street, & had a good time. He & his wife received my testimony & think they will 
soon be Baptized. 

I again dreamed of being among serpents. One bit me. We are begining to Stir the Devil up some 
in London. We shah soon find enemies & opposition & may the Lord Hasten it for it will bring 
us friends. 

3 1 This is the Last Day of 1840. [] I received a letter from Wm Pitt. Preached in the evening. 
Took supper with Doctor Copeland. 


CLOSE OF THE YEAR 


The first Day of 1840 found me in Company with Elders J. Taylor & T. Thurley on board of the 
Packet Ship Oxford on the Atlantic in Long 42.40 And the Last Day in Company with Elder 
Kimball in No 40 Ironmonger Row Saint Lukes London, the great Metropolis of Britian & the 
world. 

This has been an important year to myself, to ah the Saints & to the world at Large in many 
respects. Never have I spent a year with more Interest than 1840. Never have I been called to 
make greater Sacrifices or enjoyed greater Blessings. I have been called to make a sacrafize of 
the Society of my wife & children not once beholding their faces, one of which is taken from 
time. (Sarah Emma is gone to be seen no more in this life.) 

The whole year has been spent in a foreign nation combating error with everlasting truth, meeting 
with many contradictions of Sinners who oppose themselves against the Truth, Being Stoned 
mobed & opposed. Yet the Lord hath blessed me with a great harvest of Souls as seals of my 
ministry. Many hundreds have received the word with joy & gladness & are now rejoicing in the 
new & Everlasting covenant which Saints live in a lively hope of meeting in the Celestial Glory 


Page379 




of our God. 


I feel vary thankful to my heavenly father, for his great goodness & Loving kindness towards me 
& my Brethren During the Past year & may the Lord still be with us during the following year. In 
fine evry year will be more & more interesting from this time forth untill the winding up scene & 
the coming of the Mesiah. What 1841 will bring to pass the Lord knoweth & time will detennin. 
But may the Lord enable me with all the Twelve to return safe to our own native country & to the 
bosom of our wives & children, which may God grant for Christs sake I pray. 

In looking over my Journal I find the following is the fruits of my labours During my Travels in 
England & Wales in A.D. 1840 which will be found on the following Pages. 


A Synopsis of the travels & labours 
of W. Woodruff in A.D. 1840 


Traveled in ENGLAND & WALES 
visited the following Towns & Cities 


Towns & Cities 

Population 

Shires 

Liverpool 

280,000 

Lancashire 

Preston 

60,000 

Ditto 

Manchester 

350,000 

Ditto 

New Castle, Tunstell 



Burslem, Hanley 


Potteries 

Stoke & Longton 

70,000 

Staffordshire 

Stafford 

20,000 

Ditto 

Wolverhampton 

30,000 

Ditto 

Binningham 

300,000 

Warwickshire 

Worcester 

45,000 

Worcestershire 

Hereford 

50,000 

Herefordshire 

Ledbury 

8,000 

Ditto 

Marlvem Hills 

3,000 

Ditto 

Gloucester 

40,000 

Gloucestershire 

Cheltenham 

40,000 

Ditto 

Oxford 

30,000 

Oxfordshire 

*(89)LONDON THE Metropolis 1,600,000 

Middlesex Co. 


Also A large Number of Smaller Towns lying between those Above named. 


Page380 




Travelled 

4,469 

Miles 

Held 

230 

Meetings 

Esstablished Preaching 

53 

Places 

Planted 

47 

Churches 

Jointly organized the 


Same 

which Numbers 

1,500 

Saints 


28 

Elders 


110 

Priest 


24 

Teachers 


& 10 

Deacons 

Attended Conferences 

14 


Baptized 

336 

persons 

57 were Preachers of the 

57 

Day 

Clarks of The Church of 

2 

England 

Assisted in the Baptism of 

86 

others 

Confirmed 

420 


& Assisted in Confirmation 

50 

others 

Ordained 

18 

Elders 


97 

Priest 


34 

Teachers 


1 

Deacon 

Blessed 

120 

Children 

Administered unto 

120 

Sick persons 


by Prayer laying on of hands and anointing. In many instances the sick were healed, the lame 
walked & Devils were cast out. 

Assisted in Procuring £1,000 Pounds Sterling, for Printing the Millennia Star 3,000 Copies of the 
Latter Day Saints Hymns, 5,000 Copies of the Book of Mormon, & to Assist 200 Saints to 
Emegrate to America & gather with their Brethren At Nauvoo & Iowa. 

Wrote 200 Letters 

Received 112 Letters 


I had 4 mobs come against me. 4 Mobs 


Page381 




Endnotes 


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The manuscript changes from cursive to printed letters beginning with "miles Br Parrish." 


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Elipses in original. 

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The final line of this entry consists of Hebraic (left) and shorthand (right) characters enclosed in 


an oblong figure: 


a 


• . > i. 


4 — « — 


V • 




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Approximately six blank lines follow the 22 March entry, then the 24 March entry at the bottom 
of the page. The 23 March entry appears at the top of the next page. 


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The border after the English alphabet contains the Hebraic alphabet followed by: "ye, [he?], vau 
ho wa[y?], kauvoo." 

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Three large x's have been drawn through the Mary Webste[r] Giles entry. 

13 (Popup - Popup) 

This page appears on the first page of the first manuscript volume. The year given for Wilford 
Azmon's birth appears to have been changed from 1881 to 1880, Henry Eugene's from 1883 to 
1882, and Asahel R.'s from 1885 to 1884. 

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The following occurs after 31 December 1837 in the first manuscript volume: Jan 3rd 1838 I 
wrote a Letter to Elder Don C. Smith and sent him five subscriber's for the Elders Journal viz 
Abram Carver, Thomas Arey 1st Thomas Arey 2d Ebenezer Arey, Jabez Hyrick. I sent in the 
letter $15. $5 was for the above subscribers $1 for John M Sellers & the other $9 was for a Bill 
due William Marks in the hands of A. O. Cowdery." 


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The Baptismal Record is a small notebook attached by a string to the inside of the second 
manuscript journal. The title page of the Baptismal Record is in two hands separated by a double 
line. None of the writing on the title page appears to be in the hand of Wilford Woodruff. 

40 (Popup - Popup) 

Opposite this page appear two notes: "I have perused this for the London conference only. 
Andrew Jenson;" and, "Entire book perused for Church History. M K P." This page, designating 
the 1840 journal as volume two, and corresponding pages in succeeding volumes, were 
apparently written in the 1890s by Wilford Woodruffs secretary L. John Nuttall. Woodruffs 
own title page follows. 

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The number of teachers appears to have been changed in a hand other than Woodruffs from 64 to 
74, the teacher increase from 3 to 15, and the deacon increase from 3 to 13. 


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After the 14 October entry the following appears upside down at the bottom of the page: 


Addresses 


Reuben Hedlock No 3 East tarbett street Glasgow Orson Pratt, No 40 North Richmond St 
Edenburgh 

Theadore Curtis Hillsborough, Ireland, in the Care of William Johnson. 

John Tailor 72 Burlington St Liverpool 


Page389 




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Volume 2 

Wilford Woodruff s Journal: 1841-1845 



1833-1898 

Typescript 


Volume 2 

1 January 1841 to 31 December 1845 
Edited by Scott G. Kenney 

Midvale, Utah 


Editorial Apparatus and Symbols 


See Editorial Procedures in Volume I for a more detailed explanation. 


[ ] 

[•••] 

[-] 

[ty/try?] 

[ing] 

[Asterisks are Woodruffs .] 
<Distance> 

/and Joseph/ 

( 

) 


Blank space or original unfinished. 
Illegible letters. 

Illegible words. 

Conjectural reading. 

Words/letters supplied by editor. 
Editorial comment. 

Shorthand text. 

Interlinear or marginal addition. 
Beginning of entry enclosed by borders. 
Ending of entry enclosed by borders. 


Pagel 



(PWW) Brief text enclosed in drawing. 

* Unique or infrequently used drawing. 

Symbols used to indicate drawings appear below followed by one, two, or three examples from 
the text: 


d i3 £'i> SJ/ 

, * * 

> ts sc, 

< d }Q 

9 

L U 

i J JJ 

1 

i. ^ & 

■ 0 O 

-& 

T» 

. 0*0 

, // 

****** 

il***Jt^ 

. M ’.H h o 

x M w 

k 

t JH 


Click to view full size image. 


Volume 2 Chronology 


1841 


April 20 

Sails from England, arriving New York May 20 

1842 


February 3 

Appointed business manager Times and Seasons November Assigned to 
manage printing office with John Taylor 

1843 


June 

Joseph Smith’s King Follett discourse 

July 7 

Leaves Nauvoo with Brigham Young, G. A. Smith and E. P. Magin for the 
East on fund-raising mission 

November 4 

Arrives in Nauvoo 


Page2 





November 1 1 
December 2 

1844 

April 7 
May 9 
July 1 

July 9 
July 29 
August 6 
August 8-9 
August 18 
August 28 

1845 

January 3 
April 6 
December 14 


Sealed to Phebe Carter by Hyrum Smith 

Anointing with Parley P. Pratt, Orson Hyde, George A. Smith, and Orson 
Spencer 

Joseph Smith’s King Follet discourse 
Leaves Nauvoo on political mission 

Attends Jeffersonian Democracy Convention in Boston nominating Joseph 
Smith for president of the United States 

Learns of the martyrdom of Joseph and Hyrum Smith 

Meets with six other apostles in Boston 

Arrives in Nauvoo 

Interregnum debated with Sidney Ridgon 
Brigham Young speaks on authority of the Twelve 

Leaves with Phebe to preside over British Mission, visiting their parents en 
route 

Arrives in Liverpool, England 

Manchester conference and Joint Stock Company 

Special conference, 13,072 members represented 

London 
Jany. 1st 1841 


The Year 1840 Note(l) 

It has gone, taken its departure to return no more forever. It has bourn its report to heaven. 
Wheth[er] it be good or bad, its scenes will not again return upon the stage of action to be 
presented to the eye of man. To the reflecting mind it is evident, that no period of the nineteenth 
Centaury hath presented greater & more important events to the world, & lade a foundation for 
Still greater things to follow in quick succession than 1840. 


Page3 




It is also equally true in various ages of the world that those Subjects & things which have been 
in reality of the greatest importance to the whole world even subjects upon which the vary 
temporal existance & prosperity of the Nations of the Earth hung, have been the most out of 
sight, the last to attract the Publick mind, & when discoverd, con-siderd of the least 
Consequence, scorned & ridiculed to the last by a thoughtless multitude who like the ox going to 
the Slaughter know not the day of their visitation. This was evidently the Case in the Days of 
Noah, of Lot, of Cyrus of the Days of Jesus Christ before the overthrow of Jerrusalem & the 
dispersion of the Jews Among all the gentile nations whare they have remained Deprived of the 
privileges of the land of their fathers untill the present day. We are informed it will be in like 
manner at the coming of the Son of Man. 

What are the Signs of the times in this present generation even in 1840? As it was in the days of 
Lot & Noah So it may be now. Then the majority of the world did not dissern those things that 
were of the most interest, but they felt the most interested in those things that soonest perished. In 
like manner the present generation as a mass among all the gentile Nations do not seem to dissern 
or take any interest in any of the signs of the times of 1 840 except those leading direct to the 
Money & Stock Exchanges. Here the zeal, struggle & Interest of the world seems to centre to 
Devise some means whareby they can secure unto themselves, dollars & cents, Pounds Shillings 
& pence, & earthly dominion & power. 

But in the midst of this mighty struggle, there is a small portion of the Community among the 
Nations of the Earth, who are looking upon other signs of this present generation as indicating a 
day big with events, even the restoration of primitive Christianity, the proclamation of the fulness 
of the Everlasting gospel among all nations both Gentile & Jew, the restoration of the Jews to 
their own land, the rebuilding of Jerrusalem, great changes, Judgments, wars, & revolutions of 
the gentile nations, the Second Advent of the Mesiah in the Clouds of heaven, & the great 
Millennium or rest of the Saints of one thousand years all of which events have been predicted by 
the Holy Prophets who have Spoken since the world began. None feel more interested in the 
signs of the Heavens & the earth which clearly indicate these great & important events than the 
Latter Day Saints. 

Let us for a moment take a survey of 1840 which has been a year of interest among all Nations. 
This is the tenth year of the church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. The Church has never 
been as prosperous as through 1840 though She has just passed through a scene of unparelled 
persecution by the whole State of Missouri, who has driven, robed & murdered many of the 
Saints, & entirly expeled from the state about 12,000 of the Church. But as the persecution at 
Antioch proved to spread the work abroad evrywhare so it has been in this Case. It has spread as 
it were with tenfold rapidity not ownly throughout America, but in England Scotland Wales, & 
Ireland. Some of the Lamanite or American Indians have began to embrace the fulness of the 
gospel which is an important event in the History of the rise & progress of the Church. 

While many of the Elders have been lifting up their voices in the most noted villages & cities of 


Page4 




America The Twelve have been planting the work & esstablishing Churches in some of the most 
Notable Cities of Europe. During the year 1840 Churches have been esstablished in Liverpool, 
Manchester, Birmingham, Worcester, Hereford, London, Glasgow, Paisley Edinburgh & many 
other parts of England Scotland Wales & Ireland. Elders have also gone to South Australia, the 
East Indies, & Germany. More than 4,000 has been added to the Church by Baptism in Europe in 
1840, & two of the Twelve have Started on a mission from Nauvoo to visit the Jews in the Holy 
land of Jerrusalem. This indicates at least that the Lord has set his hand to prune his vineyard one 
more for the last time to prepare the way for his second Advent, & that he will make a Short 
work in the Earth, & cause light & truth to prevail. 

In the midst of this seenery, the hand of God is evidently began to be lade in a degree upon the 
nations in Judgment. In the United States many have Suffered. The City of Natchez was instantly 
destroyed by a whirlwind. Nearly the whole Country from the mouth of the Ohio to New Orleans 
for more than 1 ,000 miles was inundated by water which has prooved vary destructive to all that 
Country, & many parts that the water Could not reach Insects have help destroy. There has also 
been great losses sustained in other parts of that land by stonn, hail & fire, & in additions to 
many other events in America 1840 has brought a Change of Politicks throughout that Nation 
which will of Course make a revolution in Government Affairs in many respects. 

Wars & rumours of wars are among the signs of Europe. Though England feels at the present 
time as though she was swaying the sceptre over nearly all the earth, even for the first time 
waving the british flag in China, Still she is not without her troubles. She is begining to share in 
that distress of nations & perplexity, which will be prominant among the signs of the last days. 
Great poverty prevails among the working class in England & more esspecially in Ireland, much 
Crying for bread is heard in the streets. 

France has had great troubles from sources she least expected, for while she had been to great 
expens in fifing out an army of 500,000 men to assist Mehemit Ali & for other purposes, 
Endeavering at the same time to fortify Paris by surrounding it with a strong wall, but in the 
midst of this seenery they have been suffering under one constant torrent of Judgment. The sea 
has hove itself beyound its bounds. The rivers Seine, Saone & Rhone overflowed their ha nk s 
turned out of ther course & these created a flood unparellelled in that land which washed away 
both corn & wine into the french Lake, cities Inundated, villages destroyed, cattle drowned, 
towns burnt farmers ruind which created great trouble at home without war. The French 
Chambers appropriated 5,000,000 of Frances to relieve the present wants of the suffers of those 
inundations. 

But among the Signs of 1840, none are more prominant than those of the eastern world, even in 
the Holy Land. Mehemit Ali has made much noise in the world by invading Syria & trying to 
take power unto himself, & as the Tirkish power was not sufficient to check him in his progress 
England with other European Powers have interfered, & caused Mehemet Ali to lie passive at 
their feet. 


Page5 




But the effect of all these movements have been to prepare the way for the return of the Jews to 
the land of there Fathers, & while the Lord is begining to give the Jews favor in the eyes of Kings 
that they may become their nursing fathers & Queens their nursing mothers, they begin to see it 
[is] time for them to make a right use of so favorable an opportunity & immediately return & 
rebuild Jerrusalem, & the call is now going forth among the Jews in all nations to return & 
esspecially among the German continental Jews. A call of this Kind is published in the (Der 
orient) a Gennan Newspaper & among many other things Says "In no country of the earth are our 
brethren so numerous as in Syria. In none do they live in as dens masses so independant of the 
surrounding inhabitants. In none do they persevere so steadfastly in the faith in the promise of the 
Fathers as on the beautiful shores of the Orontes. In Damascus alone live near 60,000. * * [ The 
asterisks are Woodruffs .] 

The power of our enemies is gone. The angel of discord has long since hown down their mighty 
hosts, & yet ye do not bestir yourselves people of Jehovah. What hinders? Nothing but your own 
supineness. "People of Jehovah raise yourselves from your thousand years slumber! Rally round 
leaders; have really the will. A moses will not be wanting. The rights of nations will never grow 
old. Take possession of the land of your fathers. Build a third time the Temple on Zion greater & 
more magnifficent than ever. Trust in the Lord who has led you safely through the vale of misery 
thousands of years. He also will not forsake you in your last conflict." 

These things are Clearly in fulfillment of the predictions of the Prophets from Moses to Christ, & 
clearly shows the present day is big with events. Jews & Christians have now an equal privilege 
in Jerrusalem & among other privileges are permitted to gather their own taxes which has not 
before been allowed them. 

The eastern world has also sufferd by Earthquake & Storm. Several late Earthquakes in the 
Ionian Islands. Many lives have perished. On the 1st of Dec A dreadful storm raged on the black 
Sea which caused great destruction of shiping & life. 18 Greek vessels 3 English & a much 
greater number of Austrian Sardinians, & Napolitans, were utterly lost. Even in the Channel 7 
were cast away. 

Thus the Lord is beginning to vex all nations with whirlwind, flood, war Earthquakes, Fire, & 
many Judgments, as well as signs in the Heavens & Earth of the coming of the Son of Man. Still 
the Nations will not learn wisdom neither practice righteousness by the things which they suffer. 
Neither do they dissern the signs of the times even of 1840. What 1841 will bring to pass time 
must detennin. Their will be an increas of Signs in the Heavens & earth, & still greater losses by 
storm tempest & Earthquakes, on the land & sea & by fire. Trouble will be seen in the United 
States Government. Wars & rumours of wars will increase among all nations. The return of the 
Jews will be hastened. The Distress of nations with Perplexity will be felt more than ever 
throughout the earth. 

In fine evry year from this day henceforth will be attended with an increase of strange things 
sights, signs, & wonders perplexities, tribulations, Judgments wars & rumours of wars, 


Page6 




Revolutions & Changes overturns & Destructions, attended with blood, fire & smoke the Sun 
turning to darkness the Moon into Blood & the Stars falling from heaven, untill Babylon the 
great Comes in rememberance before God, & is cast down to rise no more, & the son of Man 
Desends in the clouds of Heaven to Deliver Israel & reign with his SAINTS. 


The following is from the London Weekly Dispatch Sunday Jan 17th 1841 : 


1st Upwards of 100 seaman connected with New Castle upon Tine perished in the storm of 
Novem-be[r 1?]. 

2d The American Presidents Message to Congress. A contrast drawn by the Editor between 
England and America which was interesting. 

3d England without a parliament, Publicola. 

4th The Schooner Veritas burned & one man. 

5 The Royal Speech To be deliverd from the Throne by her Majesty on the opening of Parliament 
on the 26th Inst. The speach is not understood to be the composition of the sovreign. 
Parliamentary usage for a century has esstablish as a maxim that the speech from the Throne is to 
be discused as the speech of ministers who are supposed to be responsible for it. Royal Speeches 
are often compulsory upon those who deliver them. 

6th Queen & <the> Commons a more are at present a more completely ciphers. 

7th An Interesting letter from John Frost who was transported to Port Arthur Van Demans Lan[.]. 
8 Loss of the Thames Steamer. Awful destruction of human life. 70 persons lost 3 saved. 

9th Cholera at Paris. 100 Deaths daily followed by large mobs. 

10th Singular & <[-]>. Death of Sam Scott the American Diver. Sam Scott who had Dived 140 
feet for many Days off from several Bridges in London in to the River Thames while playing 
tricks actually hung himself on the 1 1 Jan 1841 in the presence of 10,000 persons. He was born 
in Philadelphia in the United States. Was in his 28th year of his age. 

1 1th Great Distress of the poor in Marylebone. £500 pound given to feed the hungry. 

An Account of A Dream of the late Dr Phillip Doddridge 

After some Conversation with Dr Clark of St Alb[ ]s who had been conversing in the evening 
upon the nature of the seperate state & the probability that the seenes on which the soul would 
enteron its first leaving the body would have some resem-blance to those with which it had been 


Page7 



conversentwhile on earth that it might by Degrees be preparedfor the more sublime happiness of 
the Heavenly King-dom, this & other conversation of the same kindprobably occasioned the 
following Dream: 

The Doctor immagined himself dangerously 111 at a friends House in London & after lying in this 
state some hours he thought his soul left the body & took its flight in some kind of live Vehicle 
which though vary different from the gross body it had just left was still ordered to persue his 
course through the air expecting some celestial Messenger to direct him till he was at some 
distance from the city, when turning back & viewing the town could not forbear saying to 
himself, how vain & trifling are those affairs in which the Inhabitants of those places are so 
eagerly employed Appeared to me a seperate spirit. 

At length as he was still continuing his prog-ress & tho without any certain directions yet easy & 
happy in his thoughts of the universal providence & government of God which extends alike to 
all [ ] worlds he was met by one who told him he was sent to conduct him to the place appointed 
for his abode from whom he considerd could be no other than an Angel but as I remember he 
appeared in the form of an Man. 

They went on conversing together till they came within sight of a large spacious building which 
had the air of a palace. Upon his inquiring what it was his guide told him it was the place 
assigned for his residence at present, upon which the Dr [ ] That he remembered he read while 
on Earth that the eye had not seen nor the ear heard nor the heart conceived what God had laid up 
for his servants. Whareas he could easily have formed an idea of such a building from others he 
had seen though he acknowledged they were greatly inferior to this in Elegince, the reason the 
guide gave him was plainly suggested by the conversation of the contrast that the seenes first 
presented to him were contrived on purpose to bear a near resemblance to those he had been 
accustomed to on earth that he might be more easily & gradually prepared for the glories which 
would open upon him hereafter and which would at first view quite dazzle & overpower him. 

By this time they were come up to the palace & the guide led him through a kind of saloon into 
an inner parlour whare was a cup on which was empressed the figures of a vine & cluster ol 
grapes. He asked the guide the meaning of it. He told him it was the cup in which His Saviour 
drank new wine in his kingdom with his disciples & that the figures carved upon it was intended 
to signify the union between Christ & his people implying that the grapes derived all their beauty 
& flavour from the vine so the Saints even in a state of Glory were indebted for their 
esstablishment in Holyness & Happyness to the union with their head in whom they are all 
complete. 

While they were thus conversing he herd a tap at the door & was infonned by the Angel that it 
was the signal of the Lords Approach & was intended to prepare him for the interview. 
Accordingly in a vary short time he thought our Saviour entered the room & upon his casting 
himself at his feet He graciously raised him up and with a smile of inexpressible complacency 
assured him of his faithful services finding acceptance and as a token of his peculiar regard & the 


Page8 




intimate friendships with which he intended to honour him, he took the cup & after drinking of it 
himself gave it into his hands. 

The Dr would have declined at first as two great a favor but our Lord replied (as he did to Peter 
when he refused to let him wash his feet) if You drink not with me you have no part with me. 
This saying he observed filled him with such transport of gratitude love and admiration that he 
was about to sink under it. His Master Seemed sensible of it & told him that he must leave him 
for the present but it would not be long before he would repeat his visit & that in the mean time 
he would find enough to employ his thoughts in reflecting on what had passed and contemplating 
the objects around him. 

As soon as our Lord withdrew & his mind was more composed he observed the room was hung 
around with pictures & examineing more attentively he discovered to his great surprise that they 
contained the History of his own life the most remarkable seenes he had passed through these 
represented in a most lively manner. It may easily be imagined how much this would effect his 
mind. The many temptations & trials he had been exposed to & the signal instances of the divine 
goodness to him in different parts of his life which were by this means all represented at once to 
his view excited the Strongest emotions of Gratitude esspecially when he reflected that he was 
out of the reach of any further danger & that the purposes of divine love & mercy towards him 
were at length so happily accomplished. The exstacy of joy and thankfulness into which these 
reflections threw him were So great that He awoke. But for some considerable time after he arose 
the impression continued So lively that tears of Joy flowed down his cheeks and he Said he never 
on any occasion rem[em]bered to have felt sentiments of Divine love and Gratitude equally 
STRIKING. 


I copied the above from a written Parchment in LONDON Feb. 1st 1841. 


The following is a part of the Doctrinal Catechism of the Church of England: 


1. Who are your lawful spiritual Pastors? The Ministers of the Church of England. 

2. What are they called? Bishops Priests & Deacons. 

3. Are not disenting teachers Ministers of the gospel? No they have never been called after the 
manner of Aaron. 

4. But do they not say that God has called them inwardly? Yes but if he had called them inwardly 
he would have called them in the order of his word outwardly. 

5. What do you mean by this? They would have been appointed by those who have full authority. 


Page9 






6. Who are they? The Bishops of the Church of England. 

7. Who consecrated the Bishops? Their spiritual Predecessors. 

8. Who ordains Priests & Deacons? The Bishops with the help of their Presbyters. 

9. Is it not vary wicked to assume this Sacred office? It is as is evident from the case of Korah, 
Dathan, & Abiram Numb 16th. 

10. Who aijoints Dissenting teachers? They either wickedly appoint each other or one not 
appointed at all. 

1 1 . But are not dissenting teachers thought to be vary good men? They are often thought to be 
Such, & So were Korah Dathan & Abiram till God Showed them to be vary wicked. 

12. But may we not hear them Preach? No for God says depart from the tents of those wicked 
men. 

13. Who then are we to hear or be taught by? The Ministers of the Church with whom Christ 
Sayes He will be with to the end of the world. 

14. How is Christ with his Ministers to the end of the world? By his Holy Spirit blessing the 
ordinances of prayer praise reading preaching the word together with the Blessed sacraments.) 
From the pen of a London clergyman. 

Signs Note(2) 

In the fall of 1840 in the City of Cincinnati, Ohio ther appeared a larg Ball of fire over the city 
about the size of the moon apparently, at about 2 o-clock in the morning. * * This ball of fire 
burnt suddenly causing a vary loud report, and the broken peaces flew in all directions like 
blazing meteors. The earth Shook like an aspen & the * moon turned as black as ink. 

"Again soon after the representatives of our nation had assembled in Congress Hall at 
Washington in the fall of (1840) the great Chandelier in the Representatives Hall weighing 
abought six thousand pounds fell with a tremendous crash & broke into a thousand atoms. At 
about the same time the female figure representing the goddess of liberty on the east side of the 
Capitol holding the balances in one hand & the cap of liberty in the other, lost her hand which 
held the balances; it broke of itself just below the elbow & the balances fell. If these things had 
been seen by the Ancient Romans they would have considerd them ominous of their national 
light going out and justice falling to the earth. 

After General Harison was elected President of the United States A body of citizens suspended a 
line across the road in which the President was to walk. This line contained or supported 27 flags 
one for each of the states. As General Harrison was passing under thes colors the line parted in 
the centre. One half fell into the street towards the north & the other half towards the south as 


Page 10 




much as to say the states would be divided. 

President Harrison Died on the 4th April 1841 just one month after he took the Chair. He is the 
first President that has Died in the United States while filling the Presidential office. * 

The New Haven Palladium says A trumpet was blown in that city in Jan 1841 twice in 24 hours 
for many Days which caused much alann. 

* A large Bell at Washington which had been used many years, broke while tolling for President 
Harrison Death in a moderate manner. 

While General Harrison was on his way to Washington to take his seat after his Election He 
passed through a town whare there was a child named after him who Died at the same time the 
General was passing by. 

A splended ball was appointed in Portland Maine in honour to President Harrison. The man who 
was Appointed to lead the first Dance took his Daughter by the hand, & the first step he took 
Droped Dead upon the floor. 

While President Harrison while lying upon his death bed [he] had the 21 ch. of Isaiah deeply 
impressed upon his mind esspecially the 1 1 vers & probably the 16th vers is the fulfillment of 
what was on his mind. 

Does it not mean that wars trouble & disasters await the nations & that congress will be broaken 
up dispenced & destroyed & the glory theirof pass away within a year? Time will detennin. The 
President was much troubled because none was found to interpet the chapter unto [him] . 

The following letter we copy from [— ] exchange papers when places in a [— ] point of light. The 
tendency of this [— ] . It has sumthing more than the bold [-] and eloquent stile which we admire, 
to recommend it to the Saints, viz truth which all though this generation may be unwilling to 
admit, will by & by break upon them with tenfold violence and carry away their refuge of Lies. 


Increase of Crime 

Mr Editor: I am horror stricken with dreadful facts of almost daily occurrence. Scarcely a 
newspaper which is not surcharged with terrible accounts of murder, theft, robberies, 
houseburning or the like. Moral restraints no longer holds men in check. The ligaments of law 
are but feble barriers to licentious man. Ambition, rage revenge, or lust are the laws by which he 
is governed. The most slight insult is a pretext for Shedding a fellow creature's blood, as if the 
Blood of a murdered man had no voice before the throne of the Lord God of heaven & earth. 
Dirks, Pistols, Bowie-knives, &c are daily worn by thousands— worn even at the plough. I 
tremble for the fate of my Country— for the fate of the human family! Whare will these things 
end? What a horrid state of things at this time compared with the moral situation of the world 


Pagel 1 





thirty years ago! What a recklessness of life! How Impotent are the laws of God and man in 
checking the mighty tide of Crime! What is to be the state of society? Thirty years [— ] vice 
should go unchecked at a [— ] the last ten years?— O, heaven! my [— ] sickenss! No human being 
on the earth will [— ] the fact tested. 

Long before thirty years the world will be smitten by the Strong ann of Omnipotence! The most 
imposing events are hanging over the world— at the vary doors— events which will put all past 
events in the Shade— obliterating all the epochs of the human family— Stamping a new era on the 
annals of time! These things are true, and the pulpit is crying out peace & safety! These things 
are true and are come on the world as a snare: aye as a snare or the scripures are not true. Why as 
a snare? Because the pulpit is crying "peace & safety" ! O what a crash of governments thrones & 
empires is awaiting the world, and the pulpit is chaunting lullabies to its Slumbering care! War, 
pestilence and fire, standing in dread array against the human family, and the conservators of its 
moral weal hailing the dawn of universal piece, hailing a millenial dawn, when the harbengers of 
war and carnage are standing in bold relief over a guilty world. 

They are dreaming about times of refreshing from the presence of the Lord when we are to have 
the vials of his wrath! They are clothing in Brilliant Drapery, the future triumphs of the gospel 
when the drama is about to close and present a theatre of Blood. They are in imagination, 
smoothly gliding by the gradual flow of time into a heaven of repose without once turning an eye 
to an intervening vortex, which is to engulph, perhaps, more than half the human family! They 
are spreading a banquet of peace and proclaiming the acceptable year of the Lord, when he is 
about to deluge the world in fire! This tremendious event is passed over by the pulpit as a 
doomsday work of Almighty God, when it is to be premillennial and probably consummated on 
the present generation. 

A deluge of water once depopulated the world for crime; a similar scourge, by a different 
element, has a similar mission to perfonn & for a like cause. The measure of human crime is 
coming to the full, and the arm of Omnipotence lifted to "Shake terribly the earth" and the watch 
quarrelling about creeds, territory or gold. The present Christian dispensation is about to close 
like the Jewish— the heavens about to [be] rolled together like a scroll; the star in that heaven 
about to be thrown from their orbits, in wild Consternation and the indications overlooked; 
prophetic allusions to the terrible wreck, mistaken, misapplied or applyed to the wreck of Nature; 
an event without foundation in holy writ. These things are true. They are not the freaks of a 
heated imagination; but predicated upon a long candid, cool, unbiassed investigation of the living 
oracles; and on the premises we throw the gontlet to all the clergy, learned or unlearned on earth! 

S. M. M'CORKLE 

a layman 


3 

January 1st 1841 
to 


Page 12 




December 31, 1842 Note (3) 


Willford Woodruffs Daily Journal 
and Travels in the Ministry in 1841 

Book of Mormon entered at Stationers Hall by H C Kimball & W Woodruff in the name of 
Joseph Smith jr. Left 5 Copies. Paid 3/ on the 8th day of Feb 1841. But on the 15 day of oct 1845 
the records were searched by E H Davis & it Could not be found. It seems the Clerk is guilty of a 
breach of trust. 


January 

JAN. 1st 1841 


I find myself this New Years morning in company with Elder H. C. Kimball, at No 40 
Ironmonger Row Saint Lukes LONDON, The Metropolis of England, the largest commercial city 
in the world. Population 1,600,000. We are enjoying good health & spirits. 

[] I received a letter from Elder H. Glover. I Celebrated this new years Day by Baptizing two 
persons in a bath at Tabernacle Square. We dined at Doctor Copeland's. We read a letter sent to 
Elder Richards from his friends in Mass. 

The Church of Latter Day Saints Numbers this day in London 2 1 . My prayer to God is that as his 
blessings have been great unto me & my Brethren in the ministry during 1 840 in giving us many 
Souls as seals of our ministry that his blessings may be multiplied unto us through 1841. 

O God the Eternal Father I ask the in the name of thy Son Jesus Christ to spare the lives health 
strength & peace of my wife and Child, & those of my Brethren the Twelve, & that we may again 
return to the bosom of our families & be enabled to Comfort there hearts. May we also be blessed 
with many souls as seals of our ministry. Cloth us O Lord with thy wisdom, strength mind & 
spirit. In all our Counsils, make us of one heart & mind in all things. 

Cloth thy Servant Joseph & his councellors with thy Power mind & will. Enable them to 
esstablish Zion & her Stakes for a reffuge to the poor & the meek of the Earth. 

Let thy power O Lord be manifest among the Lamanites that they may begin to blossom as the 
rose. Hasten the return of Judah O Lord to Jerrusa-lem, that they may again spedily rebuild the 
city of their Fathers. Remember the outcast of Israel. May their Prophets come in rememberance 
before the O Lord hasten their return also. O God give ear to the cry of the widow & the tear of 
the orphan & avenge the innocent Blood of their fathers upon the head of their murderers & 
oppressors. Cause the gentiles to fear O Lord because of thy mighty works among thy Saints. 

Cloth thine Elders & Priests with greater Power in administering the word of God. Hasten the 


Page 13 




Signs in the heavens & Earth of the coming of the son of Man, & may thy will be done on earth 
in all things as it is done in heaven. I ask all these things in the name of Jesus Christ Amen. 

Jan 2d [] I received a letter from Elder G A Smith. We had a heavy Thunder storm at night. 

3d Sunday There was a hard tempest this morning attended with much thunder & lightning. It 
damaged some of the Churches in the City of London. We Preached in the Academy Communed 
with the Saints, Confirmed 2 & preached again in the evening & had a good time. Took tea with 
Mr Album & Spencer. 

There is quite a stir in the Independant Church, whare I preach at last sabbath evening. Most of 
the Committy 8 in No are believeing & [there is] a prospect of their being baptized while others 
are much Stired up & opposed. O God roll on thy work in this city I pray, & open doors unto thy 
servants that we may preach to the people that they may be warned & left without excuse when 
thy judgments come. 

Lade on hands upon Sister Morgan who was sick. 1 mile. 

4th □ I received 2 letters from Lorenzo Snow & John Rowley. I spent the day in writing. I wrote a 
peace upon the departure of 1840 in my Journal of 1840. ^ I wrote a few lines in a letter of Elder 
Kimballs to his wife Dated Jan 1st. I corrected a mistake to the Editor of the <Times and 
Seasons> about the expens of St Pauls Cathedral. I said a few words to sister Kimball & Phebe. 

5th A hard Snow storm. I called at No 46 Charlotte Street, Fitzroy Square, upon Mr Fillippo 
Pistrucci An Italian & took a Second Siting for my Portrait. Returned home & attended meeting 
in the evening. 

I red an account or report of "Mr Mark More before the Hous of Commons stating that there 
went into 14 of the principal gin shops in London during one week 142,000 men, 108,000 
women & 18,000 children total 268,000, which esstablishments are the resort of multitudes of 
wretched & emancipated beings & their is upwards of 5,000 of these houses in the City of 
London alone, which are licensed to sell intoxicating liquors. "The actual cost of intoxicating 
liquors in England including their manufacture & the duties paid upon them is upwards of Fifty 
Millions Sterling annually. To this large sum may be added Fifty Millions more, arising from the 
effects." It is reported to be 80,000 Prostitutes in the Metropolis. It is also stated upon Correct 
Data that there is not less than 600,000 drunkards male & female in the United Empire & that out 
of this number 50,000 die annually, or 137 daily. (See St Luke 21 ch. 34, 35.) This is truly a 
drunken generation, that will not understand the day of their visitation. 

I Also read in the British And Foreign Temperance Intelligencer Printed in London Mr. J S 
Buckingham Address To the members of the Temperance societies throughout the United 
Kingdom, upon the subject of his three years tour which he has just taken throughout the United 
States of America, with the following Motto: Temperance = Education = Benevolence & Peace 
& had deliverd lectures in almost evry city & large town in America. I found this address 


Page 14 




interesting & I herd the same deliverd from Mr Buckinghams own mouth before a large 
audi-ance assembled in a Theater in Milton Street London on the 28th of Dec 1840. Mr J S 
Buckingham is one of the greatest Travellers of the last [ ]. He has published his travels 

through India Egypt & Palestine & many other parts of the world which are quite interesting. 

f I wrote two letters to John Griffiths & John Rowley. 

6th } I wrote 2 letters to Edward Oaky & Wm Pitt. We took a walk in the evening with Mr 
Album to Spencers. Passed through Shoreditch & Spittle-field Church, & white Chapel & went 
to London Dock to hold a meeting to Mr Spencers house. 

There was ownly Six of us all & 5 were preachers. One by the name of Canon was full of 
wickedness hypocracy & he rejected our testimony & opposed the work. In fact we cannot go to 
teach in the City of London but what the Devil comes also to oppose us. This accounts for my 
dreams about serpents. 

I returned home fell asleep & again dreamed of vast Serpents both dead & alive. Some were of 
Antique turned into stone, & many were alive about 20 feet long & Pitched at me like Draggons 
& I fled from them & arose into the air & sailed a great distance with the greatest ease & delight 
singing Victory. I also saw large fruit. Tasted of it & it was good, & a man tried to set his dog on 
me, but he soon repented of his conduct. On the night of the forth I dreamed of Seeing my wife & 
child. I had a happy interview with them. I trust I shall soon hear from them at least. 8 miles. 

7th } I wrote 3 letters to W Player G A Smith & W Whittaker. [] Elder Kimball got 5 letters & I 
received one from Phebe Nov 2d. Br Kimble got one from his wife & one from Robert B. 
Thompson, & G A Smith one from Mr. Bigler Nov 13th. It was truly a feast to once more hear 
from our friends. Phebe wishes me to come home as soon as it is the will of God, & I dont 
wonder at it, for considering all things she has bom my absence like a good soldier. May the Lord 
bless her & Willford Owen I pray & hasten me to their embrace. 

DREAM I fell asleep. Soon found myself in the wilderness of wild pair trees which were bending 
with wild pairs which were the most beautiful of all fruit I ever saw. I tasted of it & found it 
delicious, & while I was gazing with wonder & admiration upon it evry pare instantly turned into 
a nice fat dressed sheep hung on the limbs head downwards. I awoke & the spirit said this is a 
token of fruit among the Lamanites. 

8th [] I received one letter from Br Griffiths & Elder Kimball 2, one from Elder Young who 
informed us that the two Brethren who went from Longton Lancashire to Nauvoo to spy out the 
land had returned & was Strong in the faith. 

This is the Coldest day & night that London has Seen for two winters & it is also so smokey I 
cannot See but few yards. But as smokey & cold as it is we went to the Tabernacle Square & I 
baptized Sussanna Album a daughter of an Independant preacher. Elder Young says 500 Books 
of Mormon are out of Press & in the binding. We also confirmed sister Album. 2 miles. 


Page 15 




9th } I wrote 3 letters to Lorenzo Snow /to Mrs Watkins/ & John Cheese. [] I received 2 letters 
from John Cheese & Br Griffiths. I walked to Grace Church Street with Elder Kimball. He took 
the omnibus & rode to woolwich to hold a meeting & I attend to the meeting in London. I 
returned home & spent the night alone. 5 miles. 

10th Sunday I met with the Saints in the morning at our room, & at 2 oclock at the Academy I 
had a full house. I preached to the people broke bread to the Saints & Blessed 2 children, & 
During the meeting sister Ellen Balfour Redman entered the room & presented me a letter of 
Recommendation from under the hands of Elder Lucian R Foster, Presiding Elder in the city of 
New York. 

1 was truly asstonished to see her in the city of London. I saw her in the City of New York the 
night befor 1 set sail for Liverpool. The life & history of sister Redman is truly interesting. She is 
a Scotch Lady of the first rank & Education. She formerly taught the Languages French Italic & 
music in the families of some of the first Lords in London, but afterwards moved to New York & 
there embraced the gospel. <Elder [— ] baptized her.> She was Sick nigh unto death, with the 
Liver Complaint & She was advised by her friends to take a sea voyage in order to save her life. 
An English Gentleman came forward, & gave her $300 dollars for the voyage. She was a widow 
& had 3 children, & as the way was open she concluded to undertake it. 

She called for the Elders of the Church, & Elder J. Blakesley prayed with her & anointed her 
with oil & she was carried on board of the ship with her three Children. No sooner than they 
hoisted sail & put to sea it seemed as though all the Elements were ingaged to destroye her. So 
rough a voyage the capt never knew in his life. They had 35 days voyage & 12 hours fair weather. 
For 15 nights in succession it was one continual flash of thunder & lightning. The Ship lay upon 
her side & drove under bare poles clear to the cape of good hope. Near all on board were sick & 
expected to be lost except sister Redman. She was immediately restored to health, & not sick at 
all. The hatchways of the cabins were fastened down & the passengers in the steerage suffered 
much. Their provisions were destroyed by water for they were in water most Constantly. The seas 
broke through the Sky lights & constantly poured in upon them. But she landed in London dock 
Safe. No lives lost except the Cook jumped overboard in the storme. He said a little before he 
wanted to get away from the devils that were on the ship. 

Sister Redman thinks it is the hand of God to bring her to London to help rool on the work of 
God in this city. She has tried to find us many days, but no one would tell her. On Saturday night 
she dreamed if she would go to Goswell Road she would see two women & if she followed them 
it would lead her to the place of meeting. She did so & herd my voice while I was speaking & 
came into meeting & communed with us. It was a joyful meeting indeed. 

She had a vision a few nights since of being called before her Majesty, the Queen Victoria & 
confined in London Tower because of her religion. 

After meeting Sister Redman took some refreshment with me & attended meeting with me in the 


Page 16 




evening & I accompanied her home to her family, which was at 24 Alderman Bury. I saw her 
Children. (I red her some of My wife's letters. She was much pleased with them.) 

Sister Redman has traveled the world much. She has traversed the East Indies, & other parts of 
the world, has been Ship wrecked Several times, taken once by the Indians once by pirates. She is 
firm & unmoved in the great cause in which she is ingaged. 

My Prayer is that Peace health & Strength may rest upon her & her Children & may the Lord 
make her useful. O Lord work by whome thou wilt but work & send by whom thou wilt but send, 
that thy cause may roll on in this city & to thee O Lord shall be all the glory. 

Mr Album informed the people he should soon be a member of the Church of Latter Day Saints 
& wished others to Join. 

1 1th One year ago this day I set my foot upon the dock at Liverpool, & I am now in the City of 
London & may the Lord bless my labours while I am here. 

f I wrote 4 letters to J. Blakeslee & H. Clark to G. A. Smith, & to O. Pratt & R. Hedlock. I [] 
received a letter from R Hedlock. 

* A man Calling himself an American has been jumping off the Iron Bridge almost evry day for a 
month into the river Thames or rather he dives. He goes head first in to the water for the distance 
of 140 feet. He does this for the diversion of the Citizens of London & to get money. He also 
suspends himself on a scaffold with ropes to play tricks. This day at two oclock while playing his 
tricks before a crouded multitude the rope sliped & caught him around the neck & hung him 
handsomly & when they cut the rope he was dead. So the citizens of London Will have to seek 
for fun some other way. He said his father & Brother killed themselves jumping at the falls of 
Niagara. 

I spent the evening with Doctor Copeland & Mr Album. [] I received a letter from Wm. Pitt. 

12th [] I received one letter from Amison & GA Smith. ^ I wrote a letter to B. Young, & one to G 
A Smith. Elder Kimball returned from woolwich bringing 4 persons with him to Be Baptized. He 
preached on Sunday for the first time in that place & those persons offered themselves for 
Baptism & he walked up & Down the River Thames untill 9 o-clock but could not get into the 
River because of the mud & Ice & so they all came up to London to day to be Baptized. We 
Immediately repaired to our private Bath in Tabernacle Square, & Elder Kimble Baptized 5 
persons. The Last one was Doctor William Copeland. 

We truly had an interesting time & felt to thank [God] to see the cloud begin to break for we had 
struggled hard to do a little. We then returned to our room & attended to the ordinance of 
Confirmation, & we had an interesting time. The Spirit & power of God rested upon us while we 
confirmed 5. 

We met in Prayer meeting at 8 o-clock. Had an interesting time. I called at Mr Album's. Had an 


Page 17 




interesting conversation with him & family untill 12 oclock & returned home to rest. Sister 
Redman was at the meeting. 3 m. 

13th [] I received a letter from PHEBE Dated N.Y. Dec 6th 1840. Strange things happen in the 
last days. I was no little Shocked & Surprised to received a letter from her Dated in N.Y. She 
informed me that J. F. Carter & L. Scammans had visited her & wished her to accompany them 
home & spend the winter at her Fathers House & accompany me home to the west in the spring 
which invitation She excepted, which accounts for her being in the city of N.Y. May the Lord 
bless her & give her an agreeable visit with her friends & give her with Willford health & 
strength faith & grace according to their Day in all things, & hasten the Hour when we may once 
more greet each other & ever be supported to do the will of God in all things untill our work is 
finished on Earth & then may we reign together in the Celestial Kingdom of our God which 
Blessings I ask God the Eternal Father in the name of Jesus Christ to grant & seal unto us this 
Blessing. 

I walked to Mr Pistrucci, to take a sitting but returned without it. 

f I had Commenced a long letter to Phebe & wrote a few lines when I received her last letter 
which came to hand this morning & as she had not received any letter from me since the one 
Dated July 8th I commenced & copied from my Journal from July 8th 1840 to Jan 18 1841 an 
account of all letters I sent her & all friends in America, & all I had received, & all things which I 
sent her, & spoke of a great variety of things & affairs, & wished her to write & Direct to 
London. I mailed it on the 18th at Phillipps No 3 Georges Yard Lumbard Street. Sister Redman 
& Br Kimball wrote Some in the Letter to my wife. 

14th I spent the Day in writing in Phebes letter. Attended meeting at night. Sister Redman was 
present. 

15th I spent the day in writing. In the evening we went to the Bath & Baptized 3 members of Br 
Morgans houshold & confirmed them. Elder K Bap’d them. Mrs Sangiovanni made both of us a 
present of a nice Silk Handkerchief. She feels bad because her husband will not let her be 
baptized. 

Elder Kimball received 5 letters containing some tales of sorrow. <A wounded spirit we can 
bear.> We eat a supper of Sprats with sister Morgan. They were small fish 2 Inches long & I fell 
a sleep & dreamed of Cetching fish many large ones with my hands. I thought I told my Dream to 
a man who was putting up a gate post & he told me the interpretation was for me to make hast & 
Baptize as many as I Could in London, & organize & set in order the Church, Seal up my 
testimony in the City & return home in the Spring. 

16th I Spent the Day in writing. [] I received a letter from Elder Daniel Browett containing £1 
wishing me to call & visit him before he left For America as he is going the first of Feb. Elder 
Kimball left London & went to Woolwich to Preach on the Sabbath. 


Page 18 




17th Sunday I met the Saints at our Sitting Room in the morning, & had an interesting & spiritual 
time. I broak bread unto the Saints in the afternoon & the Lord was with us & we had a good 
time. I preached again in the evening. Had a full house. Many new hearers. Several offerd 
themselves for Baptism after meeting. There was 8 added to the church in London During the last 
week. We have struggled hard in London to get the work Started & to do a little but the cloud 
begins to break & the work begins to roll on & the Lord will spedily do a great work in this city. 

18th [] Elder Kimball received 4 letters to day one from Elder Young who wishes us to be ready 
to set sail the fore part of April. I mailed the letter which I wrote to Phebe. } I wrote two letters 
one to Daniel Browett one to H Glover. [] I received a letter from Elder M Holmes. 

19th } I wrote one Letter to Wm. Pitt. Elder Kimball returned to London. We held a prayer 
meeting. [] I received a letter from Elder Watts. 

20th 0 1 took my last Sitting for my Portrait with Mr Pistrucci. He says it is an exact likeness & 
says it is more exact than those which he has £10 guineas for in consequence of my Sitting longer 
than others. I Paid him £2.10 about $ 12 Dollars. He wished me to call upon him while I was in 
London & write to him after I arived in America & If I ever retumd to London to be sure & give 
him a call. 8 m. 

21st I called upon Br Biggs. From thence to Mrs Martha Johnsons residing in the Chapel in King 
Street, Hackney Road. She wished me to hold meetings in the Chapel. Among other things She 
informed me, That Mr Reece Thomas Price Died in Pennsylvania North America & left all of his 
Property to the amount of about £15,000 to the oldest & nearest of the family, & that it has fallen 
to her Martha Price who has married Edward Johnson. She was living in Antici Lanville Parish 
Montgomeryshire North Wales. But she had not had any friend as yet to assist her to get it. 

I returned home, & read the 8 No of the Star. I then called upon Doctor Copeland. Suped with 
him & Preached in the evening at our room. Elder Kimball was sick. Not able to attend. 

<Distance of the day> 6 m. 

22d I [] Received a letter from Elder Kington & } wrote one letter to Elder M. Holmes. Elder 
Kimball took his last sitting for his Portrat. Elder Kingtons letter contained a post office order of 
£1 pound for Elder Wm. Pitt. 

23d } I wrote a letter to Elder Wm. Pitt. <1 bought> 2 <flannel shirts and Phebe a collar.> 

We took a walk in the afternoon with Doctor Copeland. We visited the largest Docks in London. 
We first visited St Catherine's Dock, & after viewing the Shiping & freight of evry Description 
We then visited London Dock, & among many other things we saw one of the greatest curiosities 
in London or the world viz the Eastern wine vault. 

This is much the Largest Wine vault in the world. It is altogether under ground & covers nine 
English acres. The whole vault is supported with tremendous arches & pillars, & lade of in the 


Page 19 




form of Streets. We had the streets & city overhead. We walked through the length & bredth of 
this vault with a guide each one carrying a lighted lamp in his hand. This vault has been built 33 
years. 

This vault alone contained 30,000 Pipes of the best Port wine & 6,000 pipes of Sherry & three 
other Vaults of great magnitude filled with the same article, besides many thousands of Pipes of 
wine, Brandy, Gin, & other liquors Strewed through all the Docks wharfs & storehouses. We had 
a tasting order & found the wine a good article. But it seemed dreadful to see such vast sums of 
money expended for intoxicating drinks when there are thousands nearly starving for bread in the 
streets. 

We left this scenery & called into a Jewish Synagogue & attended a meeting of the Jews. They 
all worship with their hats on. 

We returned to our Room. I called upon Mr Hender & he came Home with me. Soon Mr James 
Albon came, & we all went to the Bath at Tabernacle Square, & I Baptized Mr Albon & Mr 
Hender. We returned to our Room & Confirmed Br Albon. 10 mils. 

24th We had a Prayer meeting in the morning, & communed with the Saints In the afternoon, 
confirmed one and blessed one Child. <[— ] is some good to be done [— ] the [— ]. It seemed as the 
[ — ] Lord[— ] me during the afternoon meeting.> 

25th } I wrote a letter to Elder Kington & one to Br Amison & G. A Smith. We walked out & 
took tea with a friend. Called upon Br Album & returned to our room & soon Br Wm. Crook 
Priest Called upon us to make some arangments about his pension. 

26th Jan 1841 * This is a great day in London as it is the opening of the house of Parliament. I 
started in company with H. C. Kimball Doctor Copeland & wife, Br Crooks sisters Mary Conner 
& Ellen Belfour Redman & walked to Saint James Park. We arived in the park at 1 o-clock & 
found the Citizens of London imbodying by tens of thousands, for the purpose of having a view 
of her Majesty (Queen Victoria) as she passed through the Park to the House of Lords to open the 
Parliament in person. 

Long before 2 o-clock the whole line from Buckingham Palace through St James Park along 
Whitehall & Parliament Street leading to the House of Lords, was one continuous mass of the 
inhabitants of the Metropolis & of all Classes. The windows of the houses in Parliament Street 
Whitehall & Richmond terrace were occupied by fashionable Dressed ladies while on Richmond 
terrace and on the Steps at the base of the Duke of York's Column were immense bodies of 
people. (It was Judged there was from 3 to 400,000 Persons gatherd together on the occasion, yet 
notwithstanding this iminens Body of People we had the good fortune through the favor of one of 
the Queens Horslife guards) to get a place in the front line. 

Her Majesty started a quarter before 2 o-clock. The cortege consisted of five carriages containing 
the attendants upon Royalty, & the State Carriage in which were her Majesty & Prince Albert 


Page20 




who sat on her left, & the Mistress of the Robes & Master of the Horse. The Queen's Body Guard 
was formed by the Royal Horse Guard (Blue). The life guards did duty on the line. The State 
Carriage containing Her Majesty & Prince Albert was drawn by 8 cream Colored Hanovarian 
Horses. 

The whole train passed within 10 feet of us so that we had a fair & perfect view of the Queen & 
Prince Albert both going to & returning from the house of Lords. Her Majesty is small in stature 
very plain in features & Dress. Her costume was of white satin trimed with lace. She wore a 
necklace of brilliants. Prince Albert is quite a good looking man. They Bowed to us as they 
passed & we returned the Compliment. It was the grandest earthly scenery I ever beheld. Her 
Majesty was conducted to the Throne by Prince Albert & after she read her Speech she again 
returned to the Palace and appeared much fatigued. 

27th } Wrote two Letters one to Elders Bro-wett & Jinkens one to Brs Harris & Holford. 

We took a long walk through Parts of London With Br Crook to get his pensions. We went to the 
Admiralty. From thence to the Tower of London. We saw several officers at these places & we 
learned for a Certainty that Pensions can no longer be sold but they can draw a pensions in any 
part of the world, through the British consuls. Br Crook will have to get his in some part of 
canida. Among other officers we Saw Lord John Russel & Lord John Church-ell. 

We returned to our room & I then walked a distance with Br Crook & parted with him & he 
started for home. Sister Redman walked with us & assisted in the business of the day. [] I 
received two letters one from Lorenzo Snow, & one from Br Edward Oaky containing £1.10 in a 
post office order. 

28th [] I received 2 letters one from Br James Bames & one From Elder Wm. Players. Brother 
Players Letter also contained a long interesting Letter from Sister Vilate Kimball to Brother 
Kimball. It was truly interesting & contained much infonnation that was gratifying to our 
feelings. She informed us that 109 of the English Brethren arived in Nauvoo the last of Nov led 
by Elder Turley & the rest stoped in kirtland. She informed me that all the things which I sent to 
Phebe had arived safe & were in her hands & she would take good care of them untill we come. 
She infonned us of the interesting meeting she had with the English Sisters, many of which were 
visiting her. Sister Elizabeth Ravenscroft is making her home with Sister Kimball, & is much 
pleased contented & satisfyed with her situation. She also speaks of the late Death of Her Father, 
& many other things. 

I had just finished a short letter to Sister Kimball about the things I had sent to Phebe & I wrot } 2 
pages to sister Kimball & one Page to Elder Turley. } I also wrote a letter to Elder Levi Richards, 
& Preached in the evening & I Baptized 3 persons & we confirmed them. Had a good time. 

29th [] I received a letter from Elder Wm. Pitt. ^ I wrote 2 Letters to G. A. Smith & Wm. Pitt. I 
spent the night in copying a will for Br Thomas Allen. 


Page21 




30th } I wrote 3 Letters one to James Barnes one to Edward Oakey one to Br Benjamin Hill at 
Turkey Hall. Br Kimball received one from Sister Susanna Sanguavanni who spoke of a Lady 
that saw us there & herd our testimony & was now believing. 

<She made me a present of> 2 <silk [handkerchiefs?]. > 

3 1st Sunday We met at our Room in the morning & Communed with the Saints at the Academy 
in the Afternoon & Preached in the evening. Br Album had some trials. 

February 

Febuary 1st [] I received 2 letters one from G. A. Smith one from Eliza Bromley containing a 
remarkable dream. I also Coppied into my Journal of 1840 a vary singular dream of the late Dr. 
Philip Doddridge. :]■ I wrote a letter to sister Jennetta Richards. 

2d } I wrote a letter to Br Wm. Pitt & notifyed him to attend a conference in London on the 14th 
inst. We walked to Phinsbury Square. Here we beheld a large fire. It commenced at 10 o-clock in 
the morning. It was mostly extinguished when we saw it. Two large brick buildings had burned 
down. It snowed & was vary Cold. Many thousands were gatherd together on the occasion. 

We next went to the Stationary Hall near Saint Pauls Cathedral at which Place all Coppy wright's 
for Books of all Kind's are secured. Elder Kimball made inquiry concerning securing the coppy 
wright of the Book of Mormon or what would be required & we were correctly informed that all 
that was required was five coppies of the Book & two shillings in money, or three shilling if we 
had a certifficate. 

We next called at 46 Charlotte Street Fitzroy square upon Mr Phillippo Pistrucci. We saw our 
Portraits & took the dimentions of them thinking to get them fraimed. They were 20 Inches by 24 
1/4. 

We next called upon Mr Sangiovanni. A Miss Elizabeth Coleman made Elder Kimball and 
myself each a present of a nice silk hankerchief & 2/6 in money. Mrs Susanna Sanguavanni Did 
the Same & Also sister Elizabeth Morgan gave each of us a Hankerchief. 

We held a meeting in the evening & had a good time. We appointed a committee of three persons 
to hire a preaching room viz Dr Copeland, Rev James Albon & Priest John Cooper. They all 
accepted their appointment & will report unto us on Thursday evening at our meeting. Br James 
Albon wished to make Elder Kimball & myself a present of a nice guilt frame of his own 
workmanship for our portraits worth £1.10 each which we accepted of. 

It gave me pain while passing through the streets of London this cold day to see poor women & 
esspecially little children freezing nearly to death without food, fire, & but little cloathing but 
begging for a morsel to eat. 10 mil. 

I received a letter from Elder T. Kington in Bristol. He informed me He had Commenced 


Page22 




building up a church in that large city. Had Baptized 5 & organized a branch of 9 members. May 
the Lord bless him & enable him to build up a large church there I pray. 

3d Doctor Copeland made us a present of a large Hare caught in the noted Robinghood forest. [] I 
received a letter from Elder John Cheese stating that he would leave England for America in Feb 
with the Saints. I wrote A letter to Elder } T Kington & spent an agreeable visit at Br Albums 
with Elder Kimball & Dr Copeland & Br Cooper. I also called upon sister Redman at 22 King st. 
3 m. 

4th [] I received 2 letters from Elder Wm. Pitt. } I wrote a letter to Br Wm. Pitt jointly. Sister 
Harriet Morgan is broke out with the small Pox. Elder Kimball & myself went down into the 
room to her & lade down hands upon her which was the first time I ever lade hands upon a 
person with the small pox. Elder Kimball received 2 letters one from G. A. Smith & one from 
Dea[con] Borough Containing £3 pounds in a post Office order. /<[ — ] and grief we can bear .>/ * 
* * Sister Album sent us two loaves of Bread and a lump of Butter. 

(Elder Kimball & myself) bought each of our wives A Muslin DeLain Dress. I also bought one of 
the same kind for Sister Eunice Woodruff. All three of the Dresses or the pattern was exactly 
alike. We <paid> 5 <sterling [apiece?] [— ] the summer dress. > Also bought a foot reel rule a pair 
of nut cracks & twesers of Mrs Algood. 

We walked to London Bridge & took the rail road, & rode to Deptford. From thence to 
Greenwich, which stands upon the banks of the Thames & is the Place from which European & 
American Mariners take their longitude. We walked from Greenwich to Wool-wich which also 
stands upon the ha nk s of the Thames, & is the most important Military Post in England. It is an 
exeeding Cold day. 

We spent the evening with Br Bates. All the Saints there was in Woolwich was present but one. 
There is but six in all but they are firm in faith. We spent the night at a publick house. The whole 
Distance of the Day 13 miles. 

5th A vary cold day. We spent the forepart of the day by the fireside at Br Bates. I read a Book 
most through entitled the life and Death of John Fletcher. 

We spent the Afternoon in visiting the town of woolwich, which was truly interesting to me. We 
first visited the Artillary & Marin Barracks. Passed through & had a view of their Drill & parade 
ground which I should judge to be a mile squair. It is the largest I ever saw. As Cold as it was 
their was a number of companies on parade & were drilling new recruits. We saw many hundred 
cannon. One that measured 16 feet in length 3 1/2 diameter at the brich & 2 at the mouth. 

We saw one horse company exercising. We saw two Soldiers buried under arms. The coffins 
were let down into the grave side by side. About an ounce of dirt sprinkled upon them. The Priest 
read the funeral Prayers & Ceremony. A company of soldiers then fired three rounds over their 
grave & retired. 


Page23 




We next visited the Dock & Prision yard, which is considerd one of the most interesting Dock 
yards in the world. On passing through the gate into the yard we entered our names & residence 
on Book. Was then conducted by Mr John Finsbury Policeman to all parts & branches of 
business in the yard. 

The government had in their employ in this yard many hundreds of men besides 700 Prisioners 
who are ingaged in building Vessels Steem Boats Ships of war, making Anchors, Cables, Chains, 
Boilers, Shot, Balls, cannon, &c. The fires or Bellows were all worked by steem. The operation 
of the engines were pointed out unto us. 

Among many other curiosities we saw the Idrol-ick Press or pump by which power the strength 
of all the Anchors & Chain Cables are tried. With this small press they readily can break 150 tons 
wait. They will snap an Anchor in to like a pipes stem that will weigh 5 tons. It clearly shows the 
con-sentrated power of the invention of men. 

We saw specemins of various timbers which had been buried in the ground to see which would 
Stand the longest & it was found that English Oak Stood longer than fir or limcumvita. 

We saw the boat in which captain Ross & his comrads were saved & lived in it a season after 
they were wrecked. 

We went on to the upper Deck of the new 120 Gun Ship Trafalgar. It has been upon the Stocks a 
number of years but is to be launched in May 1 84 1 . It is considerd as large as any Ship upon the 
seas. Her Keel is 223 feet in length. Has three fighting Decks. There is a new hewn stone Dock 
made on purpose to contain her. We also Saw the Ship which contains all the prisioners by night. 

After having a view of these things we left the Prision yard & took some refreshment at Br 
Painters house & took Steem Boat for London. 

I should judge the pop of woolwich to be 50,000. It is a pleasant place esspecially in summer. It 
lies about 10 miles below London Bridge on the Thames. 

As we passed up the River, we left Shiping on both sides of us of evry class & Description, both 
in the river & Docks. From Woolwich to London Bridge, we probably passed not less than 1,500 
vessels during that distance. 

We walked from London Bridge to 40 Ironmonger Row Saint Lukes & spent the night at Home 
again. 14 miles. 

We visited Harriet who had the Small pox & found her Comfortable. She had had the kind o[r/f?] 
kow pox before but it appears to be no preventative these days. 

6th [] I got 3 letters from the postman one from Dr Levi Richards to me one from Sister Young to 
Elder Young Dec 25th one to Elder Kimball. Sister Young said Br Joseph was going to write for 
the Twelve to hold a conference in England in the Spring ordain as many as they thought wisdom 


Page24 




& send them to all parts they Could, & then for the Twelve to return to Nauvoo. 

We Baptized one in the evening. 

I perused the London weekly Dispatch, which gave an account of the wreck of the Packet Ship 
Garrick of Sandy Hook. Elders Kimble & O Hide crossed the Atlantic twice in her when they 
first Came to Eng & returned. Her tonage was 1,010. Was a new Ship. The paper also spoak of 
the bad state of affairs in America esspecially in the money market, the Banks being rotten at the 
Core. 

7th This was an interesting day on some accounts. We spent the forenoon by going to the bath & 
we Baptized Mrs Susanna M. Sangiovanni. Elder Kimball baptized Her, & I never Saw a person 
Baptized in London that did my soul more good than to See her go forward in the ordinance of 
Baptism. She was the Daughter of David M Roger of Montrose. She had an Italian for a Husband 
who was a vary Jealous man & an unbeliever in the Bible or any of the word of God, & he would 
not grant her any religious privliges but She had a little leasure time. Came three miles this cold 
morning to be Baptized. After we Baptized her we lade hands upon her & Confirmed & Blessed 
her, & also the sister we Baptized last evening. Sister Susanna returned home rejoicing in the 
Lord with her whole heart. 

We Dined at Br Albons. Had for our Dinner a nice hare Pie it being the first English hare I have 
eat, though I have freequently Dined upon a rabbit. 

We met with the Saints in the Afternoon & communed with the Saints. Had a good time & full 
house. Elder Kimball also preached in the evening & I followed him. The Lord was with us. The 
house was full & good attention. We spent the day ples-antly. 

/BOOK OF MORMON ENTERED/ 

/But the gentile omited his duty./ 

8 } I wrote a letter to Elder John Herrit. We received a package of 20 of the New Books of 
Mormon & two dozen Hymn Books. I wrote Heber C. Kimball & Willford Woodruff names in 
sum Books for Br & Sister Morgan. 

Elder Kimball & myself then walked to S. E. Dean Tailor 113 Alders gate Street City. Here a 
young man offered Himself for Baptism. 

We then walked to the Stationers Hall & secured the coppy wright of the Book of Mormon in the 
name of Joseph Smith jr. We left five copies of the Book & paid three shillings. 

We returned Home & visited a poor woman who was sick nigh unto Death. We prayed with her 
& lade hands upon her & rebuked her Sickness in the name of the Lord. 

In the evening we went to Tabernacle Square & Baptized 4 persons. One was Mrs Albon Br 
James Albon’s wife. We also confirmed her. Elder Kimball administered the ordinance ol 


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Baptism. He also received 4 letters which gave us information of the vast emegration of the 
Saints. Elder Young Said 235 go on one Ship & 100 more are going on another. Elder Thomas 
Smith spoke of severe persecution arising in Clithero & round about. 3 miles. 

9th Elder Kimball & myself spent the day in preparing a pice or small tract for the press to 
present to the citizens of London before we leave it showing in plainness the first principles of 
the gospel & the commission given by Jesus to his Ancient Apostles. We had an interesting 
meeting in the evening. 

10th We spent the day in writing at Sister Ellen B. Redman at No 22 King Street Persaval st 
Clark & well Parrish. We took a walk out to the Hospital with Doctor Copeland & spent the 
evening at home. 

1 1th We finished our Peace for the Press. Elder Lorenzo Snow arived at our lodgings this day 
from Birmingham to [take] charge of the church in London in our absence as we Shall leave it in 
his Care. I was truly glad to once more greet Br Snow As I have not seen him before since 1837. 

[] I received a letter from Elder Kington. Elder Wm. Pitt Also arived at our lodgings in the 
evening. We had an interesting evening meeting. Elder Snow Preached. Elder Kimball & myself 
followed him. We all spent the night at our logings. 2. 

12th } I wrote a letter to Sister Eliza Bromley one to Elder T. Kington & one to G A Smith. 

Elders Heber C. Kimball & Lorenzo Snow went to Woolwich. 1 received a letter from Br Smith 
to Br Snow. Their is great excitement at the present time not ownly in the House of Parliament 
but throughout London in consequence of the Apprehension & impris-ionment of Mr McCleod a 
British Officer in Lockport Jail by the Inhabitants of the state of New York who are trying him 
for Arson & Murder & are detennined to execute him if found guilty. This accusation is for the 
Burning of the Caroline on lake Erie in 1837 during the troubles in Canida. England Considers it 
a National & not an individual affair & that Mr McCleod acted in those transactions by order of 
the British Government & not upon his own responsibility, & under these considerations 
Parliament is detennined to demand his release & defend his life even at the expens of an 
immediat war with America', Parliament has sent a special message & orders to the British 
Ambassador at Washington what course to persue in the case. What will be the end of this matter 
time must determin. One thing is certain, if America haszards a war with England, She will find 
it to be more than a Joke to meet so strong a foe & one that is armed to the teeth for war. 

Should truth speak She would represent England liturally at the present time the strongest among 
the Nations, & chief in power & the mainspring of the Gentile World, & she will remain a little 
season as an instrument in the hands of God, of Bringing to pass great events, in the restoration 
of the Jews, & will be a scourge to the surrounding Nations America not excepted. Not because 
She is more virtueous or wrighteous, than the Nations that Surround her for in the midst of all her 
professed wrighteousness her sins have reached unto heaven & God hath remembered her 
iniquities & she will soon feel the chastning hand of the Almighty, & will fall in her turn & great 


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will be the fall thereof! . Therefore O, England thou chief of the Nations of Babylon prepare for 
thy DOOM. 

But O! ! America America! ! whose land is choice above that of all the footstool of God, whose 
constitution was framed by the Spirit of inspiration & whose Government was esstablished by 
the hand of Omnipotent power, In the midst of thy meeknes, humility & virtue thou was 
oppressed in thy weekness & unjustly grieved by thy mother country. Then that God who holds 
the destinies of all nations, Deliverd thee from thine oppressers & set thy nest on high & exhalted 
thee in the eyes of the Nations, & poured upon thee without measure the blessings of heaven & 
the bounty of the earth, which thou hast for a long time enjoyed with none to molest or make 
afraid. 

O! ! America how is it with thee now! ! How art thou fallen, fallen. In the eyes of thy God, thy 
protector & deliverer who changes not, & who will still avenge the Blood of the Innocent, 
Answer the prayer of the widow, regard the cry of the orphan & take vengance on thee. Thy Salt 
hast lost its Saviour, thy light hath gone out, Thine Eagles crest is stained with innocent blood 
even that of Saints. Thou hast made widows & orpheans whose Prayers & cries are assending 
into the ears of the Lord of Sabaoth, who was once thy friend & deliverer, But will now Spedily 
pour out wrath & indignation upon thee & teach thee their is still a God in Israel. 

Americans A Sound once delightful to my ear, dids thou not plough the ocean & seek an 
Assylum in the western world, beyound the reach of the Iron hand of oppression & tyranny to 
enjoy an equal right in the worship of thy God, & the Blessings of A republick? Since thou has 
freely obtained this Blessing, & drank abundantly of its sweet fountain which produced an 
inexhaustable store for the & all thy citizens, why then hast thou deprived a portion of thy 
countryman of those glorious Blessings in which thou has So long Shared By Driving thousands 
of the Saints from place to place, county to county, & state to state, spoiling their goods, burning 
their houses, robing the fruits of their labours, & last of all spill their Blood, & Marter them for 
the Word of God & the testimony of Jesus Christ. 

By So Doing thou hast made hundreds of widows & orpheans whose cry is assending into the 
ears of the Lord to avenge the blood of their murdered Husbands & Fathers & when they the 
persecuted have petitioned to the rulers for redress of their rongs they have turned a Deaf ear to 
their cries. 

O America it is because of these things that thou art weighed in the balance & found wanting. 
From this time forth perplexity shall rest upon the nation, confusion reign in thy government, 
wisdom righteousness & truth will depart from thy senators & rulers, Discord & folly shall sit in 
thy congress & senate. Thy shame shall be known among the nations of the Earth. Thy pride shall 
be humbled in the dust & thy haughtiness laid low. The heads of thy rulers shall be cut off & lade 
in the Dust. 

It shall be a vexation to understand the report of the Sorrow pain & wo that Shall come upon thee 
by Sword, fire, tempest, Earthquakes, & pestilence from the hand of God. Even these things shall 


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come upon thee untill thy government is broken up & thou art destroyed as a nation from under 
Heaven: for thou hast not kept the commandments of the Lord but hast Broken them, Betrayed 
the constitution of the Land, Polluted thine inheritances, robed the innocent, shed the Blood of 
Saints & made many widows & orphans. Therefore from this hour these things shall come upon 
thee & shall not scease untill the whole is accomplished & fulfilled upon thine HEAD. 


{Omens} In the fall of 1840 the great chandelier in the representatives Hall in Washington 
weighing about 6,000 lbs, fell with a tremendious crash & broke into a thousand atoms. About 
the same time the female figure godess of liberty on the east side of the capitol lost her hand that 
held the balances. It broke of itself just below the elbow & it fell. April 4th 1841 President 
Harrison Died in one month after taking the chair. 

13th [] I received 2 letters, one from Br Thomas Smith, & one from Elder Young to Br Kimball & 
myself. I Also received the three first numbers of the 2d Vol of the Times & Seasons & it was 
truly a feast to my soul to once more hear from the Saints in that Land, & to hear of the progress 
of the work in that land. I wrote a letter to Elder Young [and] one to Br Thomas Smith. I went 
to Tabernacle Square & Baptized 2 persons. One was a Methodist Class leader. We have a 
conference on the morrow which is the first conference held in London. 

[14] Minutes of A Conference held in LONDON 


A Conference of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints was held at Mr J. Barretts 
Academy 57 King Square Goswell Road on Sunday the 14th Feb 1841, There being present 
Elders H C. Kimball W. Woodruff L Snow & Wm. Pitt & 4 Priest. 

The meeting was Called to order by Elder Kimball at 2 o-clock. It was then moved by Elder 
Kimball seconded by Elder Pitt that Elder W. Woodruff should be president of the conference. 
Carried unanimously. Moved by Elder Kimball seconded by Elder Woodruff that Dr. Wm. 
Copeland be chosen Clerk. Carried Unanimously. 

The meeting was opened by singing & prayer by Elder Kimball. The President then called upon 
the official members to Represent their respective branches. 

The Church at Bedford Represented by Robert Williams, Priest containing 42 members, one 
Priest 7 Removed 2 Died. 

The Church at Ipswich Represented by Elder Wm. Pitt, consisting of 12 members, one Elder one 
Priest, & one Teacher. 

The Church at Woolwich Represented by John Griffith Priest, consisting of 6 members 1 Priest. 
The Church at London Represented by Elder Kimball Consisting of 46 members, 1 Elder, 2 


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Priest generally in good Standing. Excellent Prospect of continued increase. 

Moved by Elder Kimball Seconded by Elder Woodruff, that James Albon be ordained Elder. 
Carried unanimously. 

Moved by Elder Kimball seconded by Elder Snow that Thomas Barnes be ordained Teacher. 
Carried Unanimously. 

Moved by Elder Kimball Seconded by Elder Pitt that Br R. Williams be ordained Elder to 
oversee the Church at Bedford. Carried Unanimously. 

Moved by R. Williams Seconded by Elder Pitt that Br Wm. Smith Be ordained Priest at Bedford. 

Moved by Elder Kimball Seconded by Elder Pitt that Br Richard Bates be ordained a Priest in the 
Church at Woolwich. Carried unanimously. 

Moved by Br R. Williams, Seconded by Elder Pitt that Br John Sheffield be Ordained Teacher at 
Bedford. Carried unanimously. 

Moved by Elder Kimball Seconded by Br Griffiths that Br A. Painter be ordained a Teacher at 
Wool-wich. Carried unanimously. 

The Above named persons were then Ordained under the hands of Elders Kimball Woodruff & 
Snow. 

Moved by Elder Kimball seconded by Elder Woodruff that Elder Snow be Appointed President 
of this conference Also to take the Superintendicy of the Church in London. 

Much valuable instruction was given by Elders Kimball & Woodruff in relation to the Duties of 
the Official members. 

It was then moved by Elder Kimball & Seconded by Elder Snow that this conference be 
Adjurned to Sunday, the 16th of May 1841. Carried unanimously. 

The Conference was then closed by the President by singing & Prayer at half past five. 

W. Woodruff President 

106 members 2 E. 5 P. 1 T. Dr Wm. Copeland Clerk 

We also broke bread with the Saints & confirmed 4. We had a happy time through the meeting. 
We again met & opened meeting at half past six. I opened meeting & was followed by Elders 
Albon, Pitt, Williams, Snow, & H C. Kimball. We had the fullest house we have ever Seen there 
& a great prospect of the spread of the work. One came forward for Baptism. This is a day I have 
long desired to see, for we have laboured exceding hard to esstablished the work in this city, & in 
several instances it seemed as though we should have to give it up but by claiming the promises 
of God & holding on to the word of God, the rod of Iron we have been enabled to overcome, & 


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plant a church & esstablish a conference which we are enabled through the grace of God to leave 
in a Prosperous Situation which has the appearance of a great increase which Church & 
conference we leave in the care of our Beloved Brother Elder Lorenzo Snow. May God bless him 
& roll on his work in Mighty Power in this city I pray, & raise up a great people here to the 
Honour & Glory of his name. Thy Purposes O! Lord * must roll on. Thy Decrees are Sure. } 
Wisdom how Precious thou } art. 

Leb 15th Elder Kimball received a letter from his wife Dated Nauvoo Dec 30th. She infonned us 
that * Joseph had written for the Twelve to come immediately home for our personal Safety, as 
great Judgments are nigh in this land even at the Door. She spoke of our families being well, as 
far as She knew. O! God hasten the day when we can behold the faces of our wife's & Children. 
Prepare us O God for evry event which awaiteth us. Deliver us O Lord from evry evil for we are 
in thine hands. Thou knowest the integrity of our hearts & the Sacrafizes which we have made 
for thy cause on this mission. May all things work together for our good. Help us 0 Lord to keep 
the faith & overcome the world that no man may take our crown, which I ask in the name of 
Jesus Christ Amen. 

[] I Received 3 Letters one from T. Kington one from James Blakesley, one from Edward Oaky. } 
I wrote a letter to Elder J. Blakesley. 

We spent the evening at Br Morgans. Several of the Saints were present. We conversed about the 
Things of God. We feel the forebodeings of the things that are at the door, & spedily await the 
World. Their is no doubt but what troubles will Soon arise between England & America but may 
the Lord prepare his Saints for the worst. 

16th [] I wrote a letter to Br Edward Oakey. } I received a letter from Elder G. A. Smith. I Walked 
in company with Elders Kimball & Snow to Mr Pistrucci. From thence to Mr Sangiovanni & 
took tea With him for the last time. We returned to our meeting & meet with the church for the 
last time as Elder Kimball will leave London soon. It was a melting time. We returned to our 
room. Conversed about many things with the Saints, such as parting with the Saints, Leaving 
London, the awful Judgments that await the Nations. War War is [at] the door between England 
& America. O Lord Deliver us. 

17th Great excitement prevails throughout London esspecially in the House of parliament 
con-seming the Imprisionment of Mr McCleod & the North Eastern Boundary Question. 
Parliament now seems detennined on war. To evry Human appearance it cannot be evaded. But 
to the reflecting mind it seems as though the Nations at the present time were Insane & their 
Kings Presidents & Senitors entirely destitute of all wisdom. But they will all Soon learn their is 
a God in Israel who is about to take peace from the Earth & Cut of Nations not a few for Great 
Babylon is about to come in rememberance befor God. It will be as much as we shall do to Get 
out of Liverpool for New York before war overtakes us. But my Prayer is that God will spedily 
Deliver us & the Saints. 

[] I received a Letter from Elder Pitt containing £3 & infonning me that their was an appointment 


Page30 




for me to Preach in Bristol on Sunday. I wrote } A letter to Elder Wm. Pitt. 

Dr Copeland introduced us by letter to the overseer of the library of Bartholimew Hospital which 
we visited this day & was vary politely conducted by Dr Lyon throug the various Appartments of 
the Hospital & after visiting the Museum, lecture rooms & other places, last of all we visited the 
DISSECTING ROOM It being the first scenery of 11 11 the Kind I ever saw. Elders H C 

Kimball & L Snow was with me. The Dissecting appartment consisted of three Rooms, which 
contained about twenty Sudjects viz. Human Bodies which the Doctors were dissecting that lay 
upon tables. Some were just commenced upon while others were nearly finished. Our stay was 
short as their was a great stench in the room. Limbs & parts of the body were hung in all parts of 
the room. We returned home from the Hospital to our room carrying the vision of what we saw in 
our minds. 

I corrected the proof Sheet of our Address to the citizens of London. We had our siting Room full 
of Saints in the evening. As we were soon to Leave London they brought us some money & 
presents for our wives & Children. Sister Copeland gave me a hat for little Willford. 4 miles. 

Leb 18th (P) I wrote a letter to Phebe. Requested her to answer it & direct to New York in care of 
Ilus F Carter & Just as I had finished it I [] received A Package from Pickfords Boat. On opening 
it contained the 10 No of the Star several of the Times & Seasons, one Letter from Sister Eunice 
& Mother Woodruff which was vary interesting Also one from my Friends in Maine written by 
Father Carter, Freedom Molton, Phebe, Willford Owen Shuah & Sister Foss, Dated Jan 10th. It 
was truly a feast to me to hear from my Dear wife child & friend once more after being seperated 
nearly two years from them. May God hasten the day when I may see them once more. I also 
wrote a letter [] to f Father Mother & Eunice Woodruff. I also received a letter from Br James 
Barnes. 

19th [] I received 2 letters one from Wm. Pitt one from E Oakey containing £2. 

I mailed the two letters to Phebe & Father Woodruff at Phillipps No 3 Georges Yard Lombard 
Street. We went to Tabernacle Square & Baptized 2 Persons [a] Jew & Jewess. I packed up my 
things & Put them into Elder Kimball’s Trunk who was going direct to Manchester. We 
confirmed the two we Baptized. Elder Kimball administered Baptisms. I felt quite unwell in the 
evening. 

20th I arose in the morning vary ill. I Walked to the printing office & got 3,000 copies of the 
Address to the citizens of London by (H C. Kimball & W Woodruff). I Paid the Bill which was 
£3.3 three Guiney's. I took the parting hand with Elder Kimball. 

My Distress & pains of Body increased through the day. My friends held a council upon the 
Subject & pronounced my Disese the Small pocks as I had been much exposed to it. I told them I 
had rather it would be that than the Ague So I went to bed & prepared for it. Had a dredful night 
of pain & distress. 


Page3 1 




21st Sunday Grew worse through the day many friends Called to my bed side to see me, (as I was 
not able to set up at all,) Among whome was Dr. Copeland, who said it was not the small Pocks 
but a hard attack of cold & fever & they must Change my treatment or I should soon sink. They 
Did so, & I began to revive in the evening & spent a little more comfortable night. 

22 Was much better & enabled to sit up most of the day. 

23d Arose in the morning refreshed by sleep. Still felt weak in body. Wrot a few lines in my 
Journal with a feble hand. [] Received 2 letters from E. Bromley & a Brother in the Potteries. 
Elder Snow wrote to Elder Young for me. 

(J.S.B.) Last evening the Noble spirited & Celebrated J. S. Buckingham finished his course of 
lecturs concerning his tour throug the United States which was deliverd to a crouded Audience. 
While treating upon the country, government, laws, customs, fassions, religions Sects, & a great 
variety of other Subject, He omitted the subject of the Mormons, or Latter Day Saints Although 
He infonned the publick he should speak upon that subject. This was omitted in consequence of 
receiving a letter the day previous to his lecture from Dr. Copeland inclosing one of our 
addresses to the citizens of London, which Clearly showed him, that we were American Citizens, 
Elders of the Church, were in the city, & would have a knowledge of what he presented before 
the community concerning us. Early this morning Dr. Copeland recived a letter from him 
acknowledging his ignorance concerning our cause & vary much wished infonnation by 
obtaining our writings &c. So 1 made him a present of the Book of Mormon, the Millennial Star, 
and other works & my prayr to God is they may do good. 

1 walked out as far as Br Connors & found myself still quite weak. <1 saw Phebe [— ].> Many 
friends called to see me in the evening. 

I had many Dreams at night. On one occasion I was Preaching on a plain with another Brother to 
a large Congregation of Saints who surrounded us when on a Sudden An anny of men appeared 
against us & we all fled to our village which lay a little Distance of. We had a little boy & 
travling bag to carry to the city for safety. Before I reached the city I awoke. I again fell asleep & 
the house whare I was, I thought was surrounded by a mob. We put our property out of their way 
& they soon Dispersed. I then Dreamed of seeing a prisioner of annother Tongue bound in Irons 
to be executed. About 20 of his own nation came around him & kneeled down & spoke in their 
own language. 

Feb 24th I felt able to walk into the city. I purchased a Thermometer, 4/6 A Pocket compas, 3/6 2 
Brass Boxes 1/5 one doz steel pens & cases 1/. 

I packed them into a parsel, with 100 addresses to the citizens of London, 6 Hymn Books all my 
Corresponding letters & papers, & sent them to 149 oldham Road Manchester in care of P P 
Pratt. I Also sent Elder Brigham Young new watch in the same way to the same place All in the 
Hands of Brother Hume. I wrote ^ P. P. Pratt a letter upon the same subject. 


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25th I spent the Day in paying my last visit to the Saints in London & preparing for leaving 
London. I preached for the last time in London. I saw my pocket watch & Phebe's House time 
Peace both of which was a splended peace of work, which I leave in the hands of Br Connor to 
pack up & send to me at Manchester. I also bought a silver watch guard of Br Connor. <Paid> 15 
<sterling for it.> 

26th I took the parting hand with Elder Snow & the Saints & walked to the great western 
Railway Station & took rail road for Bristol, & took my farewell of London for the last time. We 
rode on the rail road to Wotten basset. 80 miles. I then took Coach & rode 36 miles (the Road 
was bad), to Bath which is the most striking place to the eye of the travler I ever saw. The city 
commences on the top of two mountains of high hills & fills the valley between. The city is a 
vary Ancient Antique looking place & vary quriously situated. Pop 75,000. 1 again took cars at 
Bath & rode to Bristol. 12 miles. 

I called at No 12 Redcliff Cressent, Bedminster Parrish Bristol, whare I found Elder Thomas 
Kington with all his houshold & also Elder Pitt. They made me welcome & I was truly glad to 
see them. City of Bristol is quite a noted place in England, with a pop of 200,000 souls. I found a 
little Branch of the Church of L D. Saints of 13 in No. Some believing came in to convers with 
me in the evening. Distance of the day 120 miles. 

27th } I wrote 2 letters one to Sister Morgan at Garway one to Elder Snow in London. 

Feb 28th Sunday This is the last Day of winter. I still have a severe Cold. I Preached this Day for 
the first time in the city of Bristol. I preached in the Theater in the Afternoon & evening. The 
Theater was crouded to overflowing. Several Hundred were present & good attention was paid. 
Many Souls will embrace the work in Bristol. After meeting we returned to Elder Kingtons 
House & I broke bread unto the Saints. Had a good time. One offered for Baptism. 

Bristol is a vary noted place for Religion. Contains a vary great No of Churches & chapels of the 
various Orders. It is a sea port town. It is the Harbour of the great western & many other Ships 
that Sail to New York. I went through Redcliff Street Park st. & Temple st. 

March 

March 1st 1841 Thus my Birth Day rolls around again with the spring. I am 34 years of age this 
day. Thus time rolls along & waiteth for no man. I am much troubled with a bad cold. 

I spent the day at Br. Kingtons. We spoke much about going to Nauvoo. I pray God to hasten the 
day when I may see my wife & Child once more. 

2d It is rainy weather. I still have a cold but am some better than I was yesterday. I preached 
again & for the last time in the Theater in Bristol. Many strangers attended & gave good 
attention. I spent the night at Br Kingtons. } I wrote a letter to Br Oaky. 


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3 [] I received a letter from Elder Snow. I took a walk with Elder Kington through the city of 
Bristol. We visited Mrs Clift, After which we visited the Noted Suspension Bridge now erecting 
across the River Avon, at St Vincens Rocks Clifton. This Suspension Bridge is 100 feet high & 
700 in length. Their was a bar of Iron & two ropes extending across from pillar to pillar & 
persons could ownly as yet pass over in a basket one or two at a time which goes on rollers or 
wheels almost with the rapidity of a steem engine. I saw several pass over in this way. 

Their is some of the greatest curiosities in the known world in the petrified stones formed from 
the various Shells fish, wonns, & other living creatures of the Sea which were fonned into stones 
of Beautiful figures & colors. I purchased some small specimens, & after walking over & 
viewing the sea we returned having a look at the great western as we passed along. 

We then returned home & I walked to the pool & Baptized a Lady by the name of Howell. We 
returned to the room & confirmed her & had a good time. I lade hands upon many & blessed 
them. I Blessed Elder Kington & all his household, & we had a good time. The friends 
contributed sumthing for my necessities. 

4th I took the parting hand with Elder Kington & household with all the Saints in Bristol, & took 
coach & rode to the passage over the river sevem. Here we left coach. Crossed one mile & half in 
a boat with passengers & baggage over the water. We again took coach. Road to the town of 
Cheapstow Monmouthshire Wales. 

I arived in this town at 1 1 o-clock. I spent three hours in this Noted town pop 6,000 During 
which time I visited the old Noted Cheapstow Castle, in which it is said that Oliver Cromwell 
was impris-ioned for a season. It was vary Antique & partly in ruins. Ther are vary many castles 
in wales of this kind, which ware built to defend themself against the English. But it is evident 
from the manner of their construction, situation, & location, that they were not calculated so 
much for Defence against Canon Ball as stones & arrows. 

I Dined in this town. Ownly half a crown 2/6 for Dinner & /6 six pence for the waiter at table & 
another sixpens for a waiter to the coach, whare I paid 4/ more to ride to Monmouth the capitol 
of Monmouthshire. 16 miles. 

It was exeeding hilly & mountaineous which is the case throug wales. Much of this roat was by 
the windings of the River Y. The Coachman run his horses Down the mountains which would 
much have endangered our lives had not the roads been good. 

When I arived in Monmouth, Elder James Morgan was waiting my arival. Had giving out an 
appointment for me to preach in town at 7 o-clock. I preached at the house of Robert Davis. The 
house was crouded & many that could not get in. 4 offerd themselves for Baptism the first 
opportunity. Their is many that will embrace the work in Monmouth if it is attended to. Their are 
calls upon evry hand. 

The harvest is great & labourers few. I spent the night at the full Moon. Distance of the Day 35. 


Page34 




5th I arose refreshed by sleep. Took Breakfast with Mr Maston & walked 10 miles through mud 
& water in the midst of a driving March rains storm to Sister Mary Morgan at little garway, 
whare I found a plesent family of the Saints. We were drenched with rain, but we found a good 
fire & spent the day comfortable. In the evening I had an interview with Elder Little Wo[rd?] 10 
m. 

6th I spent the Day at Sister Morgans reading the history of Rome which was truly interesting 
esspecially the history of the twin Brothers of Romulus & Remus sons of Rhea Sylvia, which she 
said was by Mars the God of war. They war flung into the river to be Drowned, but they wer 
saved, suckled by a wolf, & brought up by Acca Laurentia. 

After acting awhile the part of a shepherds they learned their real birth. Both were eager to reign 
& had a battle. Remus was killed. Romuleus being now sole commander and eighteen years of 
age laid the foundation of a city that was one Day to give laws to the world. It was called Rome 
after the name of the founder & built upon the palestine Hill on which he had taken his 
successful omen which was twelve vultures. This city at first was almost square containing about 
one thousand houses about a mile in compass. Hannibal after fighting nobly for his country untill 
he was old being persecuted from country to country & Deserted by his friends he took poison, & 
expired as he had lived with intriped bravery. 

Pompeys & Caesar career was noted in the history of Rome. Pompey was finally Defeated by 
Caesar. Deserted by his friend & murdered upon the sea shore in sight of his wife his head [was] 
taken off & presented to Caesar. Philip & another Roman soldier who had served under Pompey 
in his youth Paid their last honours to his remains which laid exposed upon the beach by burning 
his body & burying his ashes under a little rising earth over which they placed the following 
inscription "He whose merits deserve a Temple can now scarcely find a tomb, & Caesar fared but 
little better for after serving his country faithfully & fighting near 200 pitched battles was 
assassinated in the Senate house. Among the conspirators was Brutus his son. But Brutus & 
Cassius both sought Death at the hand of their friends or soldiers & obtained it becaus they 
[were] Defeated in battle. 

It is observed that not one of those who had a hand in the Death of Caesar Died a natural Death 
but either killed themselves or were killed by others. In fine suicide was a common thing among 
the grecian & Roman General soldiers & poets. Many Died by the use of hemlock & other 
poisons, as well as by the Dagger. Cleopatra sought Death by the sting of the Asp rather than to 
have Augustus take her to Rome. Antoeny killed himself with his sword, which left Augustus 
sole master of the Roman Empire. He Died a natural Death at 76 years of age after reigning 41 
years & having the affections of the Roman people. His power began in slaughter & terminated 
in the good of the people, so that it was said of him "that it would have been good for mankind if 
he had not been born, or if he never had died. 

Tiberius next took the government of Rome. Many were executed During his reign But he was 
smotherd or poisond in the 78 year of his age after reigning 22 years. It was in the eighteenth year 


Page35 




of the reign of Tiberus that Christ was crucified. Shortly after his Death Pilate wrote to Tiberus 
an account of his passions resurrection, & miracles, & requested that Christ might be accounted a 
God by the Romans. * * [The asterisks are Woodruffs .] 

Caius Caligula reign was the most strange extravagant inconsistant, & cruel of any tyrant that 
ever reigned in Rome. He was killed with daggers by Cherea & others at one of his games at 29th 
year of his age after a short reign of three years ten months & eight Days. 

Claudius next reigned in mildness. He restored Judea to Herod Agrippa which Caligula had taken 
from Herod Antipas his uncle the man who had put John the Baptist to death. 

Nero began his reign in AD 54 though but 17 years of age. His reign was Dreadful tyranical cruel 
& wicked, even with the Romans but more esspe-cially with the Christians. Among the many 
Christians that were marterd in Nero reign was the beheading of St Paul & crucifiing of St Peter. 
He also put to Death Seneca the philosopher & Lucean the poet, & after gluting his ungodly 
passion with the Death of thousands, he eagerly sought Death many ways before the wrech could 
find it & at last cut his own throat after reigning 13 years 7 months & 28 days. 

Galba next reigned 7 months & lost his head. Otho took his place & was killed in battle. 
Vespasian was declaired emperor in AD 70 & gave his son Titus command of the army that was 
to lay siege to Jerrusalem. 

While John & Simon were at war with each other in the city of Jerrusalem & the roman army 
without, & the vengeance of God from above the city was soon distroyed, the temple not 
excepted. The number who perished in the siege was above a million of souls & almost 100,000 
led away captive. 

Vespasion died a natural death standing upon his feet. Titus Died from a fever a little Distance 
from Rome. Domitian commenced reigning AD 81, which was cruel & unmerciful. He was put 
to Death by Stephanus & succeeded by Nerva in AD 96, who Died of a fever after a reign of one 
year four months & nine Days. 

He was succeded by Trajan who has been noted for his perseverence in great undertakings among 
which was the stupendeous work of building a bridge across the Danube, this amazing structure 
consisting of twenty two arches a hundred & fifty feet high & a hundred & seventy broad. The 
ruins of this structure remain to this Day, & show modern architects how far they were surpassed 
by the Ancients both in the greatness & boldness of their Design. The Christians suffered during 
his reign. Trajan died of the apoplexy in AD 1 17 after a reign of 19 years 6 months & 15 days. 
Trajan Column erected at Rome AD 1 14 after the reign of several others. 

Maximin commenced his reign in AD 235. This gigantic man was no less than eight feet & a half 
high. He had a body & strength corresponding to his size. His strength was so great that he was 
able to draw a carriage which two oxen could not move. He could strike out a horse's teeth with a 
blow of his fist & break its thigh with a kick. He generally ate 40 pounds weight of flesh each 


Page36 




day & drank six gallons of wine. His guards finally slew him with his son while they were asleep 
in their tent. 

Constantine the great commenced his reign in AD 308. He united church & state & 
acknowledged Christianity. At about 60 years of age after reigning 30 years he Died of the ague, 
but was baptized & received the Sacramant just before his Death. 

The foregoing items is taken from the history of Rome by Edward Coxe. 

After reading this History I walked to Br Thomas Rooke & met in council with the officers. Had 
a good time. From thence to Br John Holley & spent the night. <Distance of the day> 3 miles. 

7th Sunday I preached in the morning at the house of Br Thomas Rook & in the evening at the 
kitchen, upon the Book of mormon. Had a full house. Spent the night at Sister Morgans. 4 mils. 

March 8th I met in the Garway Conference at the Kitchen. Elder Levi Richards was chosen clerk 
president & Elder James Morgan clerk. Being present 1 High Counsel travelling, 1 High Priest 7 
Elders 1 1 Priest, 2 Teachers 1 Deacon. Meeting opened by Prayer by Elder Woodruff After 
which the Churches were represented. Garway 104, 3 1, 2, 1, Areop Do (12, 0 2 1 0) Ewis 
Harrald (8, , 1 , ,) Longtown (10, 1, 1,0 0) (Total 134, 5 6 4 1). 

Moved & Carried that John Needham be ordained Elder William Morris Priest & Thomas Rough 
Teacher. The above were then ordained under the hands of Elders Woodruff & Richards. One 
was Baptized. 

Meeting adjourned untill 3 oclock. 

We met again at 3 o-clock. Elder Richards spoke. I followed him. After meeting the Saints 
contributed £1 pound to help me on my Journey home. I then took the parting hand with the 
saints After selling them 3 Books of Mormon & 50 Addresses to the citizens of London. The 
Books of mormon were five shillings each & the Addresses one penny, which came to about £ 1 
in all. 

I walked with Br Levi Richards to Br Holley's & spent the night. This is the first time I have seen 
Br Levi Richards for about two years. <Distance of the day> 5 miles. 

9th I walked in Company with Elder Richards & Thomas Pitt to the city of Hereford. Elder Kay 
& others had been Preaching in this town & the people were much stired up. On Sunday a 
Preacher arose before two or three thousand in the market house & informed them that he had a 
fresh letter Direct from America showing the origen of the Book of Mormon to be fals & so he 
arose & read the Same old Spalding story. When he got through Elder Richards arose & 
informed the people that instead of its being a new story it had been published for two years 
through the United States & also through England. This created a great uproar among the people, 
for while some were for driving the man out of the place for lying others were crouding around 
Elders Richards & Kay to hear them preach. But the croud was so excited they left the ground 


Page37 




with hundreds following them. 

Their never was a time when the inhabitants of the earth was so much stired up & wishing to hear 
the Latter Day Saints as at the present time. It was hardly expected we should get through the city 
Without having Crouds around us. However we did. 

We had a view of the Hereford Cathedral as we passed along. We called at Sister Buftons. Their 
is a small branch of 7 members in Hereford pop 20,000. We parted with Br Pitt in this city & 
walked to Lugwardine. Met with Elder Pitt on the way, who was going to Hereford to hold a 
meeting. We called at Elder Greens. Found several of the family sick. We lade hands upon them 
& prayed with them. I met with the Church in Lugwardine for the last time. I preached from the 
24 ch of Isaiah. The Church contributed £0.12 shillings to assist me on the journey. We spent the 
night at Br William Greens. 13. 

10th We walked to Shucknell hill & had an interesting meeting with the Saints. I preached upon 
the gathering to Zion & Jerrusalem & bid them fare well as it was the last time I should meet 
with them. They put into my hands £0.3 shillings but were mostly poor. 3 m. 

1 1th We walked to Standly Hill, & Dined with Br Edward Oakey. Was truly glad to see this 
Brother once more. He walked with us thrugh Standly Hill. We called upon Br Pullin & Badham 
& other Saints. It had been 6 months since I had been through this part of the Country. 

We walked to Ledbury & held a meeting with the Saints. Sister Fidler was present it being the 
first time I have seen her. She has been a member of Lord Summers family from a Child but is 
now rejected for receiving the fulness of the gospel. Lord Summers has Died Since he rejected 
her & now his Son has commanded her soon to leave. She wishes to gather with the Saints to 
Zion. 

The Saints gave me £0.7 shillings. We spent the night at Br Pullins. We herd by letter from Elder 
Glover that Elders Orson Hyde & G J Adams had just arived from N Y. 13 m. 

12 } I wrote a letter to Elder Snow & one to Elder Young. Walked to the Green way & Preached 
at Br Palmer on the parable of the Prophet Zenas. We then walked to Br Thomas Pitt, & to Br 
Robert Clifts & spent the night. We confirmed one Blessed one Child administered to 5 sick 
Persons. Had a present of 3 shillings. 5 miles. 

13th We had an interview with sister Margarett Morgan who was firm in the faith & wished to 
gather with the Saints. She asked some Council which we freely gave her. We walked to Turkey 
Hall Elders-field Worcestershire & spent the night at Br Hills. I was quite 111 through the night. 
Distance of the Day 10 miles. 

14th Sunday I Broke bread unto the Saints in the morning & spoke upon the gathering. In the 
afternoon I preached to a large Congregation upon the gathering. There seems to be many Saints 
desireeous to gather that are poor & have not means. May the Lord deliver them. 


Page38 




15 Conference at Gadfield Elm Chapel 

The Bran Green & Gadfield Elm Conference of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints 
was held at the Gadfield Elm Chapel on the 1 5 Day of March AD 1841. Meeting called to order 
by Elder Woodruff there being present 1 of the Travling High Council, 1 High Priest, 10 Elders 
21 Priest 6 Teachers & 1 Deacon. It was mooved by Elder Richards seconded by Elder Horlick 
that Elder W. Woodruff be President of the meeting, & Priest John Hill Clerk. Carried. 
Conference opened by Prayer & singing by the President when the following Churches were 
represented: 


2 removed. 


E 

P 

T 

D 

Branch at Lime Street numbers 

33 

0 

3 

0 

0 

Haw Cross Ditto 

18 


3 

1 


Bran Green Represented 

14 


3 

1 


Frogs Marsh Do 

9 

1 




Deerest 7 Removed 

21 

1 




Apperly 4 Removed 1 Died 

23 


3 



Walton Hill 3 Do 

9 



1 


Leigh 14 Do 

33 

2 




Norton 

17 

1 

1 

1 


Twigworth 

14 


1 



Cheltenham 5 Removed 

50 


5 

1 

1 

Dymock 5 Removed 2 expeled 

51 

3 

7 

4 


Kilcot 

18 


1 

1 


Forrest of Dean 

12 

1 




Pinvin 

14 

1 

1 

1 


Nauton Beachom 

7 


1 



Hill Common 

14 

1 




Fly Ford 

8 

1 




High Leaddon 1 Removed 

2 





Removed 4 1 

Total 367 

8 

33 

11 

1 


41 

Total 408 


Meeting adjourned to 2 o-clock. 

Met according to adjournment. Opened by singing & Prayer by Elder Levi Richards. Mooved & 
carried that Henry Webb be ordained A Priest. Elders Woodruff & Richards ordained him 
confirmed one & blessed one Child. Much instruction & Council was given by Elders Woodruff 
& Richards, which gave much instruction Satisfaction to the meeting which concluded by singing 


Page39 




& Prayer. 


Willford Woodruff President 
John Hill Clerk 


* I received 3 letters. 

We had a vary interesting time at the conference. Had a large assembly of Saints. It is the last 
conference I shall ever attend at Gad Elm Chapel. I had quite a time in taking the parting hand 
with the multitude of saints who were present. We closed our meeting without any disturbance 
from the mob who were present & was kept quiet by the Policee who were present, but dressed in 
disguise. 

After Conference Closed a seene followed not easily described. I never saw a time when I needed 
more wisdom in order to council in wrighteousness than on this occasion or during my travels 
among the Churches. For the Saints universally feel that the Judgments of God are near in this 
land & are anxious to gather with the Saints in Nauvoo as soon as possible. But many are vary 
poor & see no door open as yet, & some are placed in all the perplexing circumstances that 
possible can be, & are flocking around me by Scores at a time & asking council what to do. 

As soon as meeting closed multitudes crouded around me. Many hands were presented on evry 
side to bid me farewell, many calling for me to bless them before I leave them, others crying out 
do lay hands on me & heal me before you go. Br Woodruff I am turned out of Doors for my 
religion. What shall I do? I am all ready to go to Zion. My wife wont go with me. Shall I go & 
leave her? My Husband beats me & turns me out of Doors because I have been Baptized. I have 
got money enough to carry me & the children to Zion. Will you let me go without him? Br 
Woodruff one word with you. My Mother is over 80 years of age & has willed me £60 pounds at 
her Death but will not emigrate with me. Now I want to go with the Saints. Must I stay for her to 
die or may I go & leave her? Br Woodruff I have sold my little place. Shall have £30 pounds 
tomorrow but must go out of the house into the street. This will not quite carry my family to 
America. Can you help me to a few pounds or tell me what to do? An Elder cries out how much 
longer must I preach In England before you will let me go to America? Br Woodruff cant you 
come & preach to us in Cheltenham? Wont you go home & take some tea with me? My head is 
in great pain. Wont you heal me? I want you to consecrate these bottles of Oil before you go. 
Good by. Good by. Good by. God bless you Br Woodruff. The friends are waiting a long time for 
you. Are you going? I want a little council from you. Br Woodruff may I go to America with 
you? Say may we take an English Ship to Nauvoo via of Quebeck in Canida? Shall I be Justifyed 
if I have an opportunity of Going to miss of the opportunity for the purpose of tarrying a while 
for my mother? Will you write to me? Remember me to Mrs Woodruff (Margarett Morgan). 

Good by. I have been waiting a long time to get a chance to speak to you. 

THESE and a thousand other questions were asked me in the tenn of an hour or more, & I 
needed as much wisdom as Solomon to be a councellor in the midst of such a seene. And when I 
left the chapel many were still waiting for a little council upon a variety of subjects which they 


Page40 




did not get for the want of time. Many parted with me with tears in their eyes. Many of the 
Brethren & Sisters followed me to Turkey Hall whare I spent the night, & filled the house untill a 
late hour Begging council & instruction at my hand among whome was a Baptist Minister, who 
had just been Baptized & ordained a Priest. In fine these seeneries of meeting in conference & 
parting with the Saints cannot be described. The Saints contributed £2 pounds for my necessities. 

I wrote a letter } to Elders Young & Richards. Distance 4 miles. 

16th I walked in company with Elder Needham to Keysend Street. [] Recieved a letter from Elder 
G A. Smith who informed me of the Death of Sister Bentley the widow of the late David W. 
Patten one of the Twelve Apostles who was martered in America. 

I met with a crouded congregation of the Saints, & preached unto them. My mind is Deeply 
impressed with the necessity of urging the gathering of the Saints. This at the present time seems 
to be the most important & almost the ownly subject that I feel to convers about while among the 
Churches. The Saints Contributed £06 shillings for me. I walked home with Br James Baldwin & 
conversed untill 2 o-clock & spent the night. Distance of the Day 8 miles. 

17th <Sister> Foxal <came and infonned me that she had a vision while I was preaching last 
night. Said she saw an angel stand [-] me clothed in a white robe.> 

I Conversed with many Saints upon the subject of gathering. 

I walked to wind Point. While on the way I went into the Gients Cave on Marlvern Hills. It was 
dug out of a solid Rock. Dimentions as follows: The mouth was 6 by 4 feet, 12 feet in length, & 

7 high. The stone that coverd the mouth had rolled down the Hill. 

After taking a view of this I went down the Hill. Visited the Saints at wind point. From thence to 
Colwall. Met with a large congregation of saints & preached to them upon the gathering among 
whome was Elders James & Henry Jones who like Paul had been great persecuters of the Saints 
but had now embraced it & was preaching the gospel which they once persecuted. The Saints 
Donated £0.6 shillings to help me on my Journey on my return home. I spent the night at Br 
Johnathan Lucy. <Distance of the day> 5 miles. 

[] I recieved a letter from Elder L. Snow in London. He says the work is rolling on in that City. 

He Baptized 7 on Sunday. We also recieved a letter from Elders Young & Richards. 

18th I had an interview with Elder Richards. I then walked over Marlvem Hill. Called upon Elder 
Samuel Jones. We walked through great Marlvern. From thence to the bottom of the link & 
Called upon Elder Henry Jones. From thence to Crowcut & held a meeting at Br George Brooks 
& had an interesting meeting with a large number of the Saints which I Baptized about a year 
ago. I spent the night at Haywood Cross at Sister Baylis. <Distance of the day> 8 miles. The 
saints donated £0.5 shillings. 

19th Sister Baylis let me have a pair of Black Kid gloves of her own make. I walked to 


Page4 1 




Dunsclose Visiting many Saints by the way laying hands upon the Sick &c. All appeared happy 
to see me, as I had Baptized most of them about a year since. 

I preached at Dons Close at the house of Edward J. Jinkins to a crowded congregation. A wicked 
rabble disturbed the meeting much. I felt constrained to sharply reprove them in the power of 
God. The Saints contributed £0.6 shilling for me. I spent the night with Br Rowley. Distance of 
the Day 6 miles. 

20th A vary rainy Day. Sister Mary Jenkins accompanied me as a pilot to Rough Leaser. From 
thence to Ridgway Cross as I did not know the road. Here I found Elder Thomas Chark at his 
stone quiry. I took several specimins of curious petrified stone fonned by the water. We then 
walked to Frooms Hill visiting the Saints by the way. I called upon Priesthood Benbow & family 
& conversed some with them. I spent the night with Br John Cole. I feel much at home there. 
Distance of the day 8 miles. 

21st Sunday This is the last Sabbath I shall ever meet with the Saints in Stanley & Frooms Hill. I 
met the Saints in the morning at Br John Coles at Frooms Hill. Had a crouded House & good 
attention. I preached upon the gathering of the Saints. 

1 also met with the Saints in the afternoon at Standly Hill. Had a full house. I communed with the 
Saints. At the close of the meeting I had a busy time in shaking hands with the Saints & parting 
with them. Many wished me to bless and others to heal them. The Saints gave me £0.10[..] 10 
shillings. I spent the night with Br Levi Richards at Elder Edward Ockey. 3 miles. 

Minutes of the Standey Hill Conference 

The Frooms Hill Conference of the Church of Latter Day Saints met at the house of William 
Field, Standly Hill Herefordshire, on the 22d of March 1841 at half past ten o-clock A.M there 
being present one of the Travling high Council, 2 High Priest, 20 Elders, 30 Priest, 9 Teachers & 

2 Deacons. The meeting was Called to order by Elder W. Woodruff. When it was moved by 
Elder Woodruff seconded by Elder Kington that Elder Levi Richards be chosen President of the 
conference. Carried. Moved & carried that Elder W Woodruff be clerk of the conference. 

Meeting opened by singing & Prayers by Elder Woodruff. The President then called upon the 
officers to represent the various Churches. 

Elder Joseph Pullen represented the Stanley] Hill Branch as containing members 

E P T D Rem 


80 1 4 2 0 4 

Elder Thomas Clark 

Do Froom Hill 137 3 4 4 1 2 

Timothy Gittins 

Do Ridgeway Cross 49 1 2 3 1 


Page42 






William Matthews Do Calwell 

23 

1 

2 

3 

1 (-1 

Thomas Jones P. Do Pale House 

13 


2 

1 

(-1 

Priest Frances Pullen Do Ledbury 42 


7 

2 


P. Robert Baldwin 






Do Keysend Street 

78 

2 

5 

2 

1 (-8 

P. Wm Matthews Do Wind Point 

23 

1 

2 

1 

1 (-7 

E. Samuel Badham 






Do Woofer WoodCommon 

16 

1 

1 



P. James Wiulliams Dunsclose 

40 

1 

3 

2 


E. James Jones Ditto Crowcutt 

36 


4 



Ditto Old Starridge 

30 

4 

1 



P. James Jeff Do Shucknell Hill 

44 

1 

4 

1 

(-2 

Elder Wm Kay Do Lugwardin 

81 

2 

5 

1 

1 (-2 

Ditto Mardin 

29 

1 




Elder Wm Evans Do Stokes Lane 

65 

3 

4 

2 

1 5 (-3 

Elder John Fidoe 






Do Bishop Froom 

13 

1 




James Jones Do Clifton 

32 


2 



E Samuel Badham 






Do Bromyard Down 

19 


1 

1 


P. Samuel Williams 






Do Marlvern Hill 

25 


3 

1 

1 

Ditto Powyek 

7 

2 




P. Joseph Firkins 






Do Derly Common 

2 

1 




P Henry Layton Mathen 

32 

3 

2 



E. George Allen Do Bales Gate 

6 





Do Do Ivyhouse 

3 

1 




Do Coomesmore 

4 





Do Bringsty 

1 





Do Bushbank 

1 





Do Worcester Broad Heath 

21 

1 




Do Kinnoson 

1 





E James Bames Do Michael Church 9 





Do Do Stoke Prier 

1 





Elder T. Kington represents 






Bristol 

14 

2 




257 

27 

67 

27 

8 12 (24) 


24 Expeled 12 Removed 4 Died 51 
And 1 1 added by Baptism 


Page43 






Total 


1,008 


Moved & carried that Robert Gummerry be ordained to the office of an Elder. Also that Edward 
Philips & John Spires be ordained an Elders. Also that William Rowley be ordained to the office 
of a Deacon. Also that Br Thomas Bishop be ordained A Priest. 

The Above named persons were then ordained under the hands of Elders Woodruff, Richards & 
T. Kington. 

Conference was then adjourned till half past two o-clock. 

Met according to adjournment. Meeting opened by singing & Prayer by the president. Elder 
Kington then addressed the meeting. Was followed by Elder Richards, after which Elder 
Woodruff deliverd his farewell addressed to the conference & Saints in general. 

The minutes were then read & accepted by the Conference, when the meeting closed by singing 
& Benediction by Elder Wodruff. 

Levi Richards President 
Willford Woodruff Clerk 

After meeting Dismissed I spent about three hours in shaking hands with the Saints healing the 
sick, giving council concerning a thousand questions & things that were presented before me by 
the multitude which surrounded me. Many were in tears as they parted from me. Nearly fifty 
saints came to me & wished me to take them to Zion when I had not means to take myself. I 
however gave Sister Foxal £5 pounds to make up enough to help her & her husband & Children 
to the land of America She had £30 pounds but not quite enough to help her family over, & she 
had used evry exhertion for six months by puting faith & works together to try to gather with the 
Saints, & this was a donation from Elder Edward Ockey who is imparting of his Substance to 
help the poor Saints. 

It caused me peculiar feelings to part with these Saint & to meditate upon the fruits of my labours 
& what had followed in that field During 1840. The following is the sum Total represented in 
that region: 


Garway Conference represented 134 

5 

6 

4 

1 

Gadfield Elm Conference represented 408 

8 

36 

11 

1 

Standlv Hill Conference represented (1,008) 

27 

64 

27 

8 

Total 1,550 

40 

106 

42 

10 

members 

E 

P 

T 

D 

1,550 

40 

106 

42 

10 


Thus the Lord has given me the desire of my heart & Blessed me far beyound my expectations 
for I am now privleged of having more than fifteen hundred Saints in this interesting field which 


Page44 




I first opened one year ago the 5th of this present months, all of which have embraced the work 
since that Date. Many of the Saints have gatherd to Zion from that region & the rest are anxious 
to go & ownly waiting for a door to be open for them. I have never seen so many Saints receive 
the work of God in so short a time & so many ordained Elders Priests &c as on this occasion, & 
what adds much Joy & consolation to my mind while reflecting upon this subject is that (with 
vary few exceptions) the Officers & members universally have maintained their integrity kept the 
faith & are faithfully passing through many trials for Christ sake. 

After Bidding the Multitude of Saints farewell I went to Elder Edward Oakey to spend the night. 

I was accompanied by Elders Richards Kington, & Kay. We had not been in the house but a short 
[time] before three of Edward Ockey's Brothers came into the house for the purpose of 
contending & having a contest with me, Because their Brother & sister had embraced the fulness 
of the gospel & was about to gather with the saints of God, to the land of Zion they manifested 
much wrath against me, & after conversing about 3 hours upon various subjects, During which 
time they brought railing accusation against us, & after Br Ockey had faithfully warned them & 
born faithful testimony unto his Brethren of the truth of the work of God & the fullness of the 
Gospel, they left the house & we were once more in peace, & after conversing together untill the 
third wach of the night we retired to rest which closed the scenes of one of the busiest days of my 
life. 2 miles. 

[ ] 

March 23d I arose in the morning refreshed by sleep & after Conversing several hours with 
Elders Richards Kington, Kay, & Ockey & others I was under the necessity of taking the parting 
hand with the Saints in this region, & among others with Br Edward & Sister Ann Ockey. These 
are a Brother & sister of one family & the ownly ones of the Ockey family that have received the 
fulness of the gospel. As they & their friends are popular & welthy they have had many trials to 
pass through in order to do the will of God maintain their faith & Integrity & prepair to gather 
with the Saints of God, for their Brothers are exceding mad against them. But Br Ockey has 
maintained his integrity like a man of God When his Brothers has come against him in anger & 
abused him & the Servants of God that were in his house he has boldly stood up in defence of the 
faith bore record of the truth of the work & faithfully warned his Brethren to obey the gospel. He 
is making evry preperation to gather with the Saints & help as many as he can to Do the same. 

Sister Ann appears willing to do the Same, But has some fears that her Brothers will hender her 
getting ready & gathering with the saints. She wishes me to Pray that God will deliver her. As I 
bid her farewell she put into my hands £0.5 A crown & A Peace of paper containing the 
following lines: 

To my Dear Friend 

Oh say not we are Parted 

While our souls can meet in prayer 

Whilst there is a throne of love 


Page45 




And one hope unites us there. 

When the first light of the morning 
First tints the east with red 
I pray that heavens best blessings 
May be showerd on thy head. 

And when evening's lengthning shadows 
Recall the hour of Prayer 
There is no mercy that I crave 
But they Dear name is there. 

A. O. to W. Woodruff 
(Good Bye) 

When from the friend we dearly love 
Fate tells us we must part 
By words we can but febly prove 
The anguish of the heart 

And in soft words how'er sincere 
Can half so much imply 
As that suppressed & trembling tear 
Which drowns the word good bye. 

The oceans may between us rool 
And distant be our lot 
Ah 'tho we part to meet no more 
Dear Friend forget me not 

A Ockey 

I then walked to Frooms Hill. Conversed with the Elders untill 2 o-clock. I then took the parting 
hand with Elders L. Richards T. Kington, Ka & others, & took about 20 lbs wait in my travelling 
bag & walked 15 miles in four hours to Worcester. When I arived there I was so vary lame with 
my heavy load & fast walking that I could scarcely walk. I then took the rail road & arived in 
Binningham at 10 o-clock. Was exceding lame & weary. I spent the night with Elder James 
Riley, chair maker 24 Park street Binningham. <Distance of the day> 40 m. 

24th I visited the Brass foundery in Birmingham. Then travled to west Bromwich & called to Br 
Smiths. Then to Greets Green & spent the evening at Br Walkers. I administered to 6 that were 
sick, returned & spent the night at Br Smith. <Distance of the day> 10 miles. 

March 25 I took Coach & Rode to Hanly & stoped with Br John Taylor. I hear great report of war 
all through the country against America. I } wrote a letter to Elder Lorenzo Snow. I had an 
interview in the evening with Elder G. A. Smith. We met a large congregation of the Saints in the 
Hanley Room. Elder Smith first addressed the meeting & I followed him. 


Page46 




After meeting was dismissed, many of the Saints went with us to Br Taylors & we spent several 
hours in talking & I read the 1 1th No of the Star which was Interesting. It contained an 
interesting account letter from President Joseph Smith to the Quorum of the Twelve in answer to 
some which we had written him. I then walked to Br William Box In Picckidelly street Hanly & 
spent the night with Br Smith. I am happy to leam that the work of the Lord is rapidly prospering 
in these Staffordshire Potteries & many are added to the Church. Distance of the day 45 miles. 

26th I engaged Elder John Taylor to make me sum clothing which consisted of one Black Broad 
cloth Dress coat, waist coat, & Trowsers, one Blue Broad cloth Frock Coat & silk velvet 
waistcoat. The cloth, trimings & making with the additions of two shirts amounted to £9.10, 
about $45 dollars all of which I paid him. I persued this course as I stood in need of Clothing & it 
being much Cheaper than it was in America. 

I walked to Sister Mary, & Br Sampson Bridg-woods. From thence to Lane End & visited many 
of the Saints. I had a plesent interview with Brother Noon. I spent the night at Elder Players. He 
is a stone cutter & engraver. Distance of the Day 6 miles. 

27th Before I took my leave of the Saints in Lane end or Longton I went to the water & Baptized 
7 persons. One was Alexander Barton A Potter, Artist & Modeller. I then parted with the Saints 
& walked to stoke & dined with Elder Rowley. Then walked to New Castle. Spent some little 
time at Father Row-leys who was vary feeble. 

There is many silk manufacterers in New Castle. * I Purchased 15 yards of Black silk for a dress 
for Phebe at 2/2 per yard £1.12.6. & 7 yards of lineing at /4 1/2 per yard £0.2.7 1/2. This was 
considerd as Cheap as any Could be bought in England according to the quality. [Total] £1.15.1 
1 / 2 . 

I walked with several Brethren to Hanley & Sat in Council with many of the Officers. Among 
other business that was brought up was the case of a Brother Mumford who was ingaged in the 
Magic or Blackart fortune telling &c which prevails to a great extent in this Country. But as he 
persisted in his course after being laboured with the Council Withdrew fellowship from him. He 
was holding the office of a Priest & one thing is worthy of notice that while the Priesthood was 
upon him, he could not se[ll?] his majic glasses as before untill after he ceased to fill the Priest 
office & rejected our council. 

I spent the night at Brother Box who had been sorely tempted of the Devil for many Days. We 
lade hands upon him & Cast the Devil out, & he had peace. 10. 

[28] Staffordshire Conference of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints met according 
to adjournment & by appointment in the Majestrates assembly Room in Hanley on Sunday the 28 
Day of March, there being Present W. Woodruff & G. A. Smithof the Traveling High Council & 
one High Priest 13 Elders 28 Priest 10 Teachers & 8 Deacons. The meeting was called to order 
by Elder Woodruff at half past ten oclock when it was moved by ElderWoodruff seconded by 


Page47 




Elder Simpson that Elder G A Smith be appointed President of the Conference. Carried 
Unanimously. Moved & Carried that Br T. J. Fitcher & O. Shaw be Clerks of the meeting. 


Moved & Carried that Brothers Player, Taylor Simpson & Burrows be appointed to assist in 
thebusiness of the Day keeping order &c. The President opened the meeting by singing & Prayer 
& then called upon the Officers to Represent the various Branches of the Church when Elder 
Cordon read the minutes of the Birmingham Conference which represented 



member 

E 

P 

T 

D 

Birmingham Conference 

112 

2 

11 

5 

2 

Ditto Leek Conference 

67 

2 

9 

2 

2 

Elder R Steel Do Cox Bank 

34 


1 

1 

1 

E Wm Bradbury Do Knutton 

14 


2 

1 


Ditto Bradley Green 

7 





Elder Whittaker Ditto Longton 

102 

2 

5 

3 

1 

H Booth Do Badley Edge 

19 


1 


1 

E W. Smith Do New Castle 

14 

1 

3 

1 

1 

E Rowley Do Stoke 

19 

1 

4 

1 

1 

E W. Bradbury Do Hanley & Burslem 144 

6 

8 

4 

1 

E C Stephenson Do Tunstall 

23 

1 

2 

1 

1 

Br Vernon Do Chesterfield 

10 





Do Minutes of Macklesfield Conference 9 1 

2 

8 

6 

3 

Do Scattered 

7 





Total one High Priest 

663 

17 

54 

25 

14 



5 

8 

7 

2 



22 

62 

32 

16 


It was then moved & carried that Brothers T. J. Fitcher J. Taylor O Shaw, W Ridge & H Booth 
be ordained Elders. Also Brothers 

W. Edwards 
Wm Bradbury 
F Parker 
J Forister & 

Also, J Johnson 
G Taylor 
T Silcock 

& W. Alcock be ordained Teachers 

Also R. Brown & H Billington be ordained Deacons. The conference then Adjourned untill half 
past 2 o-clock. 


H Simpson 
J Robinson 
Wm. Evans 

J. Kent Be ordained Priests 
J. Ball 
J. Billington 
G. Grocott 


Page48 




Met according to adjournment. President opened meeting by Prayer After which 15 of those 
named for ordination were ordained under the hands of Elders Woodruff, Smith & Cordon. 
Moved & carried that the remaining ordinations nominated be attended to by Elder Cordon. 

The President then brought up the case of a Br Moumford, who was holding the office of a 
Priest, from whome fellowship had been withdrawn by the council of officers in consequence of 
his practizing fortune Telling, Magic, Black art &c & called upon Elders Woodruff & Cordon to 
express their feelings upon the subject when Elder Woodruff arose, & spoke Briefly upon the 
subject, & informed the assembly that we had no such custom or practice in the Church, & that 
we should not fellowship any individual who Practiced Magic fortune Telling, Black art &c for it 
was not of God. When It was moved & carried by the whole church that fellowship be withdrawn 
from Br Moumford. 

Moved and carried that this Conference grant unto Elders Woodruff & G. A. Smith a letter of 
recommendation, manifesting that the Church in this region accept of their labours & considerd 
that they have filled their mission with honour & Dignity. 

Moved & carried that this Conference adjourn for three Months. 

G A Smith (President) 

T J Fitcher 
O Shaw (Clerks) 

We had a vary interesting conference on this occasion it being the Majestrates assembly Room 
which would hold about 800 which was crouded but in Perfect order. Much good feelings was 
manifest during the Day & a prospect of a continual increase in the Potteries. I dined with Elder 
Taylor & spent the night with Br Box. 

March 29th I walked to Burslem. Spent the Day at Br Johnson’s. Br J. A. Smith & Myself packed 
up some Crockery or China ware that was given us by the Saints. We met the officers in Council 
at the Hanly room & gave them such advise as we thought wisdom. Had a good time & took our 
farewell of them. Spent the night at Br Johnsons. 10 miles. 

} I wrote a letter to Elder D.C. Smith at Nauvoo. 

30th We parted with the Saints in Burslem took coach & rode to Manchester. 40 miles. Called at 
the Shop or abode of Elder P. P. Pratt 47 Oxford Street Manchester. He had moved his station 
from 149 oldham Road to this place. I found him enjoying good health also his family. I Saw the 
times & Seasons up to the 7th No. Was much edifyed with its contents. We also received many 
letters from Nauvoo one from Br Joseph to the Twelve one from D.C. Smith to G A Smith with 
one from Elder Clayton giving an account of the journey of Elders Turley Benbow & company 
all of which was interesting. I spent the night at Br Brewshaws. 40 miles. 

3 1st I had the perusal of the three first Numbers of the Gospel Reflector published By B. 


Page49 




Winchester Elder of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints in Philadelphia Also the 
Journal of Elder Heber C Kimball, lately published by R. B. Thompson in Nauvoo. I wrote a 
letter to sister Morgan. } [] I received a letter from Mother Woodruff. 

April 

April 1st} I wrote a letter to New York for a sister who was in poverty through sickness. I } * 
also wrot a letter to the Editor of the Star. 

I had the happy privilege this day of striking hands with the following persons of the quorum of 
the Twelve: Brigham Young Heber C Kimball Orson Hyde Parley P. Pratt Williard Richards 
Willford Woodruff & G. A. Smith. We had a happy time together. This is the first time I have 
seen Elder Hide in England. He spoke of the situation of things in New York & upon other 
subjects. 

2d April We have taken up our abode & lodgings at Br Brewshaws No 4 Gray Strett Oxford 
street at which place the quorum of the Twelve will hold their councils. I met to day in the 
Council of 8 of the Twelve. We had a good time. Unity prevailed. I spent the night with Elder 
Richards at Br Hardmans. 

3d } I wrote a letter to Elder Edward Ockey. I met in the council of the Twelve being nine of our 
Quorum together viz B. Young H. C. Kimball O. Hide P. P Pratt 0 Pratt W. Richards W. 
Woodruff J. Taylor & G. A. Smith, & we done much business & had a good time being united. 

4th Sunday We met the church in Manchester & had a good time. Elder George J. Adams 
preached in the morning. Elder Smith & myself administered the Sacrament to the Congregation 
in the Afternoon after which all of the quorum of the Twelve who were present being 9 in 
number arose & bore testimony of the truth of the fulness of the gospel, the Book of mormon &c. 
It is seldom that any congregation is privileged with as much testimony as on this occasion for 
this is the first time that so many of the Twelve have met together for about four years. 

Elder O Hide Preached in the evening upon the gathering of Israel from the 31 ch of Jeremiah. 
Much testimony was produced, which was unto edification. 1 1 were confirmed. 

5th I again met in Council with the Twelve according to adjournment & transacted some business 
& talked about many things. Perfect union & hannony prevailed in all the deliberations of our 
councils for the last four days. Many of the Elders came in in the evening which I was glad to See 
among whom was Elders Levi Richards A. Cordon, Lorenzo Snow, Alexander Wright, George D 
Watt & others. 

I have felt the voice of the spirit stealing across my breast for the last few days whispering that I 
should lift up my voice unto the people of Maine Connecticut, & other places New haven 
esspecially when I return. 

The following is the entire minutes of the Business of the quorum of the Twelve for several Days 


Page50 




in success [ion]. 


Manchester England April 2d 1841 

This Day Elders Brigham Young, Heber C. Kimball, Orson Hide, Parley P. Pratt Willard 
Richards, Willford Woodruff John Taylor & G. A. Smith of the Quorum of the Twelve met 
together at the house of Br James Bewsher Coachman No 4 Gray Street near Oxford Road in this 
City in Council after having been seperated & dispersed in various countries for the last four 
years. 

To meet once more in council after a long seperation and having passed through many sore and 
grieveous trials exposing our lives & our characters to the slander and violence of wicked & 
murderous men, caused our hearts to swell with gratitude to God for his providential care over 
us. 

Elder Young opened the council by prayer. Elders B. Young H. C. Kimball and P P. Pratt the 
committee appointed about a year ago to secure a coppy right of the Book of Mormon in the 
name of Joseph Smith jr. Presented the following certificate: 

Feb. 8th 1841 Then entered for his Copy the property of Joseph Smith Jun. the Book of Mormon 
an account written by the hand of Mormon upon plates taken from the plates of Nephi. 

Translated by Joseph Smith jr. First European from the Second American Edition. Received five 
copies. 

George Greenhill 

The above is a true copy of an Entry in the Rejister Book of the Company of Stationers Kept at 
the Hall of the said Company. 

Witness my hand this 17th day of February 1841 

George Greenhill 

Warehouse Keeper of the Company of Stationers 
The quorum voted that they accepted the labours of said Committee. 

Resolved that as the quorum of the Twelve have had nothing to do with the printing of the Book 
of Mormon they will not now interfere with it, but that the said committee settle the financial or 
business matters thereof with Joseph Smith Jun. to whom the profits rightly belong. 

Resolved that Elder Amos Fielding be appointed to superintend fitting out the Saints from 
Liverpool to America under the instructions of Elder P. P. Pratt. 

Resolved that Brother G. J. Adams go to Bedford & Northampton and labour in that region. 
Adjourned till 10 o-clock tomorrow A.M. 

Elder Kimball closed by Prayer. 


Page5 1 




Orson Hide Clerk 


Manchester April 3d 1841 

This Day the quorum of the Twelve met pursuant to adjournment. The President called upon 
Elder Hyde to open by Prayer, which was accordingly done. The Quorum then signed a letter of 
Commendation to the churches in England for Elder Hyde. The Business of Publishing the Star 
& Hymn Book was then taken into consideration. Br John Taylor moved that those who have had 
the care and superintendency of publishing the star & Hymn Book should dispose of them 
according to their own wishes & dispose of the procedes in the same way. Seconded by Elder O. 
Pratt and carried by a unanimous vote. 

Moved by Elder Young seconded by Elder Richards that Elder Parley P. P. Pratt Conduct the 
Publication of the Millennial Star as Editor and Sole proprietor of the same after the Close of this 
present volumn. 

Resolved that Elder P. P. Pratt reprint the Hymn Book if he deem it expedient. The hymn Book is 
not to be altered except the typhographical errors. The above resolve was moved by Elder G. A. 
Smith seconded by Elder W. Woodruff. Carried unanimously. Conference adjourned. 

Orson Hyde Clerk 

Manchester April 5th 1841 

Met pursuent to adjournment. Elder Orson Pratt opened the Council by Prayer. It was resolved 
that the 17th day of April be the day appointed for the Twelve who are going to America to set 
sail from Liverpool. This was moved by Elder Richards and seconded by Elder Woodruff & 
carried by a unanimous vote. 

Moved by Elder Kimball Seconded by Elder Woodruff that the Twelve do business at the 
Conference as a quorum & call upon the church or conference to sanction it. Adjourned till the 
6th Inst, to meet in general conference at Carpenters Hall at 10 o-clock A.M. 

O. Hyde Clerk 


} I wrote a letter to Elder John Taylor, Tailor. 

CONFERENCE MINUTES 

The Council of the Twelve assembled at Manchester in the carpenters Hall, on the 6th day of 
April 1841 for the first time to transact business as a quorum in a foreign land; being the first day 
of the 12th year of the rise of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. 

Nine of the quorum were present viz B. Young H. C. Kimball O. Hyde, P. P. Pratt 0 Pratt W. 
Richards, W. Woodruff J. Taylor & Geo. A. Smith. 


Page52 




President Young having called the house to order & organized the conference then opened by 
Prayer. Elder Thomas Ward was then chosen clerk. The President then made some introductory 
remarks relative to the organization of the Church in the house of the Lord in America in 
refference to the different quorums in their respective orders and Authorities in the church. 

The representations of the churches & conferences throughout the Kingdom were then called for 
which were represented as follows: 


Locations 

By whom 
Represented 

M 

E 

P 

T 

D 

Manchester 

P.P. Pratt 

443 

7 

15 

9 

0 

Clitheroe Conference 

H.C. Kimball 

318 

6 

12 

13 

3 

Preston Do 

P. Melling 

675 

11 

15 

13 

3 

Liverpool 

J. Taylor 

190 

9 

8 

4 

3 

Isle of Man 

Do Do 

90 

2 

4 

2 

0 

London Conference 

L Snow 

137 

3 

8 

4 

2 

Brimingham Do 

A Cordon 

110 

4 

13 

4 

1 

Staffordshire Conference Do Do 

574 

19 

49 

28 

16 

Garway Conference 

W. Woodruff 

134 

5 

6 

4 

1 

Gadfield Elm Do 

Do Do 

408 

8 

33 

11 

1 

Frooms Hill Do 

Do Do 

1,008 

27 

67 

27 

8 

Edinburgh (Scotland) 

Glasgow, Paisley, Johnstone 0. Pratt 

203 

6 

9 

6 

2 

Bridge of Weir and 

R Hedlock 

368 

12 

15 

13 

11 

Thorney Bank Ireland, 

T. Gurus 

35 

2 

0 

1 

0 

Wales, 

J Burnham 

170 

2 

5 

3 

3 

New Castle upon Tyne 

A Fielding 

23 

1 

3 

1 

0 

Alston 

J Sanders 

26 

1 

0 

1 

0 

Brampton 

Do Do 

46 

0 

1 

0 

0 

Carlisle 

Do Do 

43 

1 

0 

0 

0 

Bolton Elder Crooky 

189 

1 

11 

8 

1 

Duckinfield 

J Albertson 

120 

2 

4 

3 

2 

Stockport 

Elder Magan 

161 

1 

5 

2 

2 

Northwich, Middlewich &c S. Heath 

112 

2 

6 

6 

6 

Oldham 

Wm Black 

86 

1 

4 

1 

2 

Eccles 


24 

1 

3 

1 

0 

Pendlebury 


62 

0 

2 

1 

1 

Whitefield 


41 

1 

2 

3 

0 

Radcliffe Bridge 


18 

1 

3 

0 

0 


Total 

5,814* 

136 

303 

169 

68 


Page53 




*Note(4) Near eight hundred Saints have emigrated to America during the past season who are 
not included in this representation. 

After these representations the Conference adjourned at 12 o’clock till 2 P.M. 

The Conference met pursuant to adjournment. Opened by Prayer. Scattering members were then 
represented Consisting of near 50 not included in any of the Above branches. 

The President then proceded to make some remarks on the office of Patriarch and concluded by 


moving that Elder Albertson be ordained to that 
carried unanimously. 

Resolved that: 

D. Watt 
G. J. Adams 
Amos Fielding 
Wm. Kay 
John Sanders & 

J. Riley 

Resolved that the following persons be ordained 

Wm. Miller 
Wm. Leach 
John Sands 
Wm. Moon 
Wm. Hardman & 

Wm. Black 

John Goodfellow * * * 


office. This was seconded by Elder Kimball and 


Thomas Richardson 
James Whitehead 
Thomas Dunville 
James Galley 
George Simpson 
Be Ordained High Priest. 

Elders viz: 

Joseph Brotherton 
Richard Benson 
Theophilus Brotherton 
John Mcllwrick 
Wm. Green 


The Council then proceded to organize all the Churches into Conferences throughout the 
Kingdom & appoint presiding Elders over them. The Conference then adjourned till 7 o-clock. 

Met pursuant to adjournment. Open by prayer & Singing. The Patriarch P. Mellen was then 
called upon to pronounce a Patriarchal blessing upon the head of John Albertson Previous to his 
being or-dained to the office of Patriarch. He then laid his hands upon him & Blessed him. * * 
See Millennial Star 303 page. 

The Twelve then lade hands on J. Albertson & ordained him to the office of Patriarch. The High 
Priest & Elders were then Ordained & much Council was given from the President & others of 
the Twelve. 

A vary richly ornamented cake a present from New York from Elder Adams wife to the Twelve 
was then exhibited to the meeting. This was blessed by them & distributed to all the officers & 


Page54 




members & to the whole congregation consisting of about seven hundred people. A large 
fragment was left for some who were not present. 

While the cake was passing P. P. Pratt composed the following lines: 

When in far Distant regions 
As Strangers we roam 
Far away from our Country 
Our friends and our home 
When sinking in sorrow 
Fresh courage we’ll take 
As we think on our friends 
And remember the CAKE. 

The number of official members present at this Conference was then taken viz: 


Quorum of the Travelling High Council 9 

Patriarchs 2 

High Priest 16 

Quroum of the Seventies 2 

Elders 3 1 

Priest 28 

Teachers 17 

Deacons 2 


Elder O Hide appealed powerfully to the meeting & covenanted with the saints present in a bond 
of mutual prayer During his mission to Jerrusalem and the east which was sustained on the part 
of the hearers with a harty Amen. 

Elder Joseph Fielding made some remarks, & spoke of the rich cake. Considered it a type of the 
good things of that land from whence it Came & from whence they had received the fulness of 
the gospel. 

* * After a hymn was sung Elder Young blessed the congregation and dismissed them. 

Brigham Young Chainnan 
Thomas Ward Clerk 

April 7th I called at Elder P P Pratt's Book store 47 Oxford street & found his house full of 
Elders many of whom were about parting to go into their field of labour. The clerk of our 
conference was sumwhat in trouble as he had this morning lost all of the minutes of the 
Conference, & had to write them over before they could go to press. 

The Twelve spent a little time in council in the fore part of the Day. In the afternoon the Twelve 
and all the American Brethren went to Br Millers & took tea & had an interesting visit together. 


Page55 




Before we left the Twelve lade hands upon the head of Elder (Kimball) Orson Hyde & Blessed 
him in the name of the Lord, as he had ben set apart by the first Presidency to take a mission to 
the Holy land, the City of Jerrusalem whare Jesus Dwelt, for the purpose of laying the foundation 
of a great work in that land. This is the first mission that any man has taken to the land of Asia 
belonging to the church of Christ of Latter Day Saints. Much of the Spirit of God rested upon us 
when we blessed him. Elder Kimball was mouth & Elder Taylor scribe. 

I walked Into the city with Br Young & we bought each of us a pair of Pebble Specticeles for the 
eyes Also a small spy glass. Pebbles were 14/ shillings, the Spy glass 3/6. 1 wrote a letter :)■ to 
Sister Margarett Morgan. 

8th :)■ I wrote a letter to Elder Edward Ockey :)■ Also one to Phebe W. Woodruff. I received £4.10 
from Elder John Horlick by the hand of Elder Levi Richards. I spent the day night at Elder 
Walkers with L Snow. 

9th This is good Friday in England. All business is stoped. It is called a Holly Day. It is quite a 
day of recreation among the people. Elder Kimball Baptized Br. Brotherton. He then came to 
Elder P. P. Pratts & was confirmed. 

We Dined with him after which we all walked to the Zolloogical Gardins. Their was 15 of the 
American Brethren present. We returned & took tea at Br McKendricks. I spent the night at 
Brother Brothertons. 

10th I spent the Day at Br Brewshaws packing up my things into my trunks &c. I Bought a trunk 
& payed £2 for it. I accompanied Elder Taylor to the railway station who took his departure for 
Liverpool. I spent the night at Br Brewshers. 4 miles. 

1 1th Sunday I preached in the Carpenters Hall in the morning. Was followed by P. P. Pratt. I 
dined at Father Brothertons. The Sacrament was administered in the Afternoon. Many testifyed 
of the work of God. Elder O. Pratt Preached in the evening from Daniel on the kingdom & the 
four beasts. Represented the first beast kingdom of Nebuchednezzar 2d Meeds & Persians 3d 
Macedonian, & 4th the Roman Kingdom. He spoke of this work of the last days. He was 
followed by Elders Kimball Young &c. We Spent the night at Br Brewshers. 

12th I accompanied Elders Young & Kimball to P P Pratts 47 oxford street. P P Pratt gave me £3 
for 40 Hymn Books. We then went to No 1 Oldham street & purchased such articles as we stood 
in need of in the family. The following are the things I bought: 


1 Shawl 6 6 

1 Do 9 5 

1 Do 4 6 

3 yards linen 2/2 6 6 

20 Do Flannel 1/11 1 8 

1 Veil 12 6 


Page56 




1/4 

1 

1 

2 

2 

2 

2 

1 


lb Silk 25/6 6 4 

Ball Twist 3 3 

1 lb of black sewing threat 4 

pair of stockings 1/3 2 6 

Do 1/6 3 

Do 1/5 2 10 

Cotton Hankerchiefs 2 

Dress Pattern 4 7 

£4 9 7 [.] 


I also received a present of a dress pattern & 4 spools & 6 Balls of cotton thread both from Sister 
Martha Brotherton. Also a sort of a work bag. We dined at Brother Brothertons & then returned 
to Br Bewsher's. Took tea. We then walked out into the city & spent the evening together after 
which I spent the night with Br R. Hedlock at Br Jones Cookson st. Distance of the day 8 miles. 

[] I received a letter from Edward Ockey. 

} I wrote a letter to Elder Kington. 

13th } I wrote a letter to Elder E. Ockey. Took a walk in the afternoon through the Manchester 
fair, in company with Elder Young & Smith. Saw a great variety of things. One man 8 feet high 
weight 450 lbs & one pig 1200 lbs, one living skeleton, a great variety of wild beasts the largest 
Elephant in Europe, Lions Tigers & leapords all in one cage, with a man playing with them all, & 
lying in the midst of them. I attended a wedding in the evening & spent the night at Br 
Brewsher's. 5 miles. 


14th I spent the day counting out the Millennial Stars. I obtained for my share 76 whole volums. I 
bought 2 cases of raisors one 6/6 box Iron with 2 heaters, 3/, 5 pair of sissors 3/ one nail hammer 
2/ & Elder P. P. Pratt says if I ever carry my hammer to America he will give me a £1 a sovreign 
the first time he sees me at Gilberalter will it be in 1844. 

I had a present of a nice silk work bag & needle ball from Sister Martha Brotherton. I spent the 
evening preparing my things for going to Liverpool. I was called to administer to Sister Smith 
who was vary sick. I spent the night at Br Bew-shers. 

15th We sent our trunks & baggage on the baggage cars & we bid old Manchester with all their 
was in it farewell. Left Elder P. P. Pratt his wife & children in good health & spirits. Sister Olive 
Frost was with them in good health. We left them with a Store of Books of Mormon Hymn Book 
voice of warning, Poems, tracts, & Stars for sale. 

Elders Young O. Pratt, myself, G A Smith & Levi Richards, took Cars & rode to Liverpool. G A 
Smith & myself took up our abode at Br Harringtons milk house top of Gunville street near Mill 
end Scotland Road Liverpool. We arived Just in time to attend a splended tea meeting of the 
Saints at the music hall Liverpool. 200 Saints sat at the table. The Saints have rented this hall for 


Page57 




their meetings. It will seat about 2,000. This is the first time I have visited Liverpool since I first 
landed. It gave me peculiar feelings to sit down with 200 Saints in this place thinking that when 
we first landed that [there] was not one in the city but ourselves. After tea we were introduced to 
this intelligent body of Saints & the quorum of the Twelve addressed them in few words, after 
which we were dissmissed. 

Our quorum met a few moments, & concluded to sail on Tuesday which will make us vary busy 
untill that time. [] I received a letter from Elder King-ton. 

16th This is an extream busy day. Many things to do & little time to do it in. The Saints are 
coming in from various parts of England to sail for New York on board the Ship Rochester with 
us among whom is Br Edward Ockey & friend, & Br Fidoe & family. I went to Br Armstrong & 
got measured for An overcoat & a dress Black coat & summer Pantaloons & waistcoat. 

I visited the Agents of the Ship which we were going on with Elder Taylor & we detained the 
ship one day on our account. This company will do all they can to favor us for it is for their 
interest as we have already given them many passengers & shall probably many more. They give 
us with all our Company the second cabin & do of a seperate room for our quorum. The fare of 
each person is £3.15 & our quorum half price. 

Their is a great difference between our landing as we did in Liverpool on the 1 1th of Jan 1840 as 
a stranger in a strange land & peneless & our setting sail on the 20 of April 1841 with a ship load 
of Saints & all that we need of this worlds goods to make us comfortable, & having an influence 
sufficient to detain a Ship a day or two on our account. Truly the lord hath blessed us in a manner 
not looked for. 

It hath truly been a miricle what God hath wrought by our hands in this land since we have been 
here & I am asstonished when I look at it for during our Stay here we have esstablished churches 
in all the most noted cities & towns in this Kingdom have Baptized more than 5,000 souls 
Printed 5,000 Books of mormon 3000 Hymn Books 2,500 Volumes of the Millennial Star & 
about 50,000 tracts, & gatherd to the land of Joseph 1,000 Souls & esstablished a great influence 
among those that trade in ships at sea & lacked for nothing to eat drink or ware. Truly the Lord 
hath been good. 

17th I bought a pair of Wellington Boots at £0. 18 shillings. Spent the day in running to & fro 
through the city assisting the Saints. I walked 4 miles in the evening on the sea shore with a 
company of Saints & Baptized 2 persons. One was Sister Elizabeth Ockey sister to Edward. 

Sister Ann Ockey accompanied us. They much desired to sail with us to America with their 
Brother Edward but they were not ready. I retired to my room & bed at midnight vary weary with 
my days labour. Distance 15 mils. 

18th Sunday I Preached to about 200 saints & some of the world in the music Hall in bold st. 
Liverpool in the morning. In the afternoon the Twelve bore testimony of the work of God. We 
communed with the Saints in the evening. Elder Taylor preached. I spent the evening at 68 Leeds 


Page58 




st. with Elder Edward Ockey & his sisters & Br Fidoe & family. 

19 This is one of the most busy days of my life in setling my business & preparing for our voyage 
home.Among other things I received thefollowing: 

Books of Mormon 


12 Moroco 9/ £ 5.8.0 

25 gilt edge 7/ 8.15.0 

89 marble edge 6/6 28.18.6 

35 Sheep 5/ 8.15.0 

£51.16.6 


Out of this number of Books I made the following distribution: 

Ezra Carter & family lettered 9 Morocco. 

Aphek Wodruff & family & other Connecticut friends 5 Moroco lettered. 
W. Richards 2 gilt edge, 6 marble edge, 

4 sheep 12 


G. A. Smith 4 marble edge 2 sheep 6 

R Hedlock 4 marble edge 4 

One Moroco to E. Ockey Eliza Brewer 

Ann, & Elizabeth Ockey. Total 4 

One Moroco Calf gilt edge to two SistersJane & Ellen 2 

Making in all A present of Books of mormon to friends 42 


I packed up my Books & all my things in trunks & took them on board of the Ship Rochester. 


I Bought of Br Armstrong one overcoat £3.15.0 
one Dress Coat £2.15.0 

one waist Coat 10 

one pair of Summer trousers 1 0 

£7.10.0 


I paid the above in Books of mormon except £1.1 Bought the following Articles: 


1 Shall £0.14 

1 Ditto 14 

1 Ditto 6 

2 pair of Drawers 9 

1 Ditto 3 

2 flannel shirts 10 


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1 Box steel pens 6 

1 Do 2 

1 Do 1 

4 cards & pens 4 

1 Doz pen cases 1 

1 Inkstand 1 

Total £5.15 


Sister Elizabeth Ockey presented me with a nice neck scarf And Sister Ann Ockey presented me 
with a fine silk neck hankerchief & gold pin. I took tea with them. I presented each of them with 
a Book of Mormon, Moroco bound & gilt with their names upon it, Also Edward Ockey & Eliza 
Brewer. 

Elder Edward Ockey has done much for the cause of God. Has helped many families to go from 
England to Nauvoo of the Saints & has paid out 2 or £300 pounds of late for this purpose. 

Besides he has this day presented me as a present to assist me to return home, A purs of gold 
containing £50 Sovreigns about equal to $250 Dollars. Truly this is liberality, charity & 

Blessings not often met with. As some of my Brethren were ready I gave A portion of it to them 
As follows: B Young £5, W Richards £5, And G. A. Smith £5, &c. 

Truly the Lord hath been good unto us ah during this mission & given us ah things we needed for 
which blessings I feel to offer up the gratitude of my heart to my heavenly Father. 

Seven of the Twelve with 120 Saints & 160 other about 280 in ah got our baggage on board of 
the ship to set sail, but the wind being contrary we staid on shore. 

20th April 1841 I went on board of the ship Rochester in the morning in company with Elders B 
Young H. C. Kimball, 0 Pratt, W. Richards, W. Woodruff J. Taylor & G. A. Smith of the Twelve 
R. Hedlock High priest 120 Saints, 160 of the world 20 of the crew, 2 mates (Porter & Steward) 
Capt Wood-house 1 carpenter, 1 cook 2 stewards making 307 Souls in ah. We took the parting 
hand with Elders P. P. Pratt & O Hide & a multitude of saints who stood upon the dock or quay 
to see us start. 

We drew out into the river Mercy & Cast anchor in sight of Liverpool & spent the day & night. It 
was with some difficulty that we could get the baggage stowed away so that we could make our 
beds. However we lay down & slep well. 

21st Wednesday The wind is favorable & we are ah vary busy in nailing down & lashing our 
baggage to prepare for sea. The Anchor was hauled up & sails spread at 12 o-clock & started on 
our voyage. * * [The asterisks are Woodruffs .] We had a good breeze through the day but most 
ah the passengers were Sea Sick & stacked up in heavs & vomiting at a dreadful rate. 

We had a room built for our quorum in the second cabin. The second cabin was mostly occupied 
by the Saints the Steerage by other passengers. Fare was £3.15. We were allowed the privilege of 


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the Aft quarter deck. The Rochester is a fast sailing vessel of about 1,000 tons. 

We passed by all the Ships that went out of Liverpool at the time we did. Among the number was 
the Oxford of the line the one that we Sailed to England in in 1840. 

22d We arose quite weak by vomiting & sickness. It is a plesent morning. We are nearly out of 
sight of land but 10 sail are in sight of us. I went among the sick passengers & got them out of 
their births on deck to take the air. Elder G. A. Smith was quite sick with a severe cough through 
the night. 

23d Cloudy & some rain. Contrary winds. 

24th It commenced at midnight to blow a gale. All head wind. It blew away our fore topsail. We 
were all dredful sea sick. I could not get out of my births all day. It was a distressing time to us 
all. 

25th Sea mountains. High head winds. Ship rocking & pitching dreadfully. All sea Sick. I spent 
some of the day on deck. I was faint. I only eat two backed potatoes in two days & that I soon 
vomited up. I spent a sick night which was the case with most of us Sunday. 

26th Monday We got a little food in our Stomachs & got on deck. Vary feeble in body. I never 
felt worse in any sickness. Was thankful that my wife & Children was not with me to share in 
such sufferings. 

The sun is plesent today. We have Still west head winds & rough sea. Their has been some fears 
that several Children would die on board being vary sick. We got together & prayed the Lord to 
have mercy upon us all & spare the lives of our Company, & the sick began to amend. Truly we 
have perils by Sea as well as by land. 

* Two years ago this day the Twelve held ther Conference on the building spot of the house of 
the Lord in the city far west on which occasion I was ordained to the quorum of the Twelve in 
company with G. A. Smith & we started on that day to take our foreign mission & thank God we 
are now on our return home & are still alive & through the mercy of God are like to live. * * We 
had a still night. 

27th Wind (W) still blows. The Saints are some better. The Twelve are generally well & vary 
patient well united & agree in all things & love one another. I visited the Sick & got them on 
deck. 

28th This was a day that caused many mixed sensations of pleasure & pain grandure & solemnity 
hope & fear to many. To me it was a day that satis-fyed mine eyes in many respects. 

When we arose in the morning we still found strong head winds which soon increased to a great 
Stonn & tempest which scenery I have not language to describe. The Sails were close reefed or 
taken in as soon as possible. It took 16 men to Close reef the main top sail. The tempest was now 


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raging with all power the sea piling up into mountains, the Ship mountain the waves & billows & 
pitching into the valleys & rocking tremendiously & shiping seas occasionly. 

In the midst of this seenery the cry of help was herd in our Cabin. I rushed to the seene & found 
the ropes giving way & breaking which held the whole mass of baggage which was piled up 
between decks, consisting of heavy trunks, chests, Boxes & barrels which if once liberated from 
their Confinement would with one surge be hurled with all their force into the births of the men, 
women, & Children which would endanger the lives of all. 

On seeing the foundation of this mass give way Elder W. Richards & myself Sprang to this place 
of danger & braced ourselves against the barrels & held them for a few moments untill it was a 
little secured. I then went on deck to the captain & informed him of the situation of things below 
& he sent the Sailors with some ropes & secured the pile which was endangering the lives of 
many. 

After this was done I again repaired to the Aft quarter deck to behold the raging of the tempest & 
the wonders of the deep & the movements of the ship which was the greatest seenery I ever 
beheld upon the water. Elders Young, Kimball, Richard's & Smith was with me on deck for a 
time but all had now gone below except Elder Richards & myself & the officers & crew. We 
were Shiping heavy seas. 

It was now about sun set. I stood in the middle of the aft quarter deck holding the captains 
Speaking trumpet in one hand & holding to a fast bench with the other when we Shipped a 
tremendious Sea on the windward side of us which passed clear over the quarter deck on which I 
stood. On seeing that we Could not escape it Elder Richards flung himself close under the 
Bulwarks & the body of the wave went clear over him without wetting him but little. But as I 
Could not take the same advantage I flung myself upon the deck & held upon the fast seat whare 
I remained untill the sea passed over me & left me drenched in the Surge. 

I now thought it time for me to leave my seat of observation for the day & go below as I was 
thoroughly wet with salt water. I went to bed but did not sleep but little for the ship rocked at a 
dredful rate. Boxes, barrels, & tines were tumbling from one end of the Cabin to the other. And 
in the steerage about 15 Births were flung down 9 at one surge with all the men women & 
Children flung into a pile in the midst of the berths but no lives lost or bones broken. This is the 
8th day in succession that we have had strong headwind. 

April 29th Sea vary rough after the gale. The Sun Shines plesent, & we have a fair wind for the 
first time since we left Liverpool. We sail 10 nots an hour. Their is one Sail in sight of us. A 
piesent evening wind aft. Nearly all the canvass spread. I had a good nights rest. 

30 A fine breeze from NE. Sail 10 not an hour. Fears were entertained that the Ship was on fire 
as smoke arose from the holes but it was found to Come from the Cook shop. I was requested to 
carry the dishes to the cook So I got my hands full of dishes of various kinds & just as I steped to 
the door of the Cook house the Ship gave a dredful surge & rocked so that she lay upon her side 


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with her stud sails in the water. This unexpected surge plunged me head foremost about 10 feet 
the whole bredth of the cook shop against the side of the cook room with the cook [on] top of 
me. 

As this was my first introduction to the cook since I had been at sea I begged his pardon for Such 
an adrupt enterance, & withdrew leaving the cook with three smashed fingers (caused by trying 
to save me in the fall) to pick up my dishes at leasure which were scattered from one end to the 
other of his shop. I hope it will be a long time before I shall pay the cook a similar visit. 

We Sail exceding fine & have now for 3 days. The passengers are over their sea sickness & feel 
Cheerful. 


May 

May 1st A fine beautiful plesent mays morning. A fair NE wind or light breeze. Water smooth. 
We have 19 peases of canvass spread. A gib, flying gib 8 peaces upon the foremast 5 upon the 
main mast & 4 upon the mizzen mast including the Spanker. It was truly a beautiful sight. Their 
is two sail in sight. We Sail 12 not an hour. We feel well & are much prospered. 

2d A strong (N) favorable wind. Some Cloudy. We sail 12 not an hour. We overtook & passed a 
brigg to the windward of us. We sailed nearly 2 miles to her one. We saw a fin back whale come 
out of water several times about 20 rods from the ship. We are drawing near the banks of 
Newfoundland. Sunday. 

3d Clouday. We have a calm but sail about 3 nots an hour. In the evening a good wind N.E. Sail 
12 nots an hour. 

4th A clear serene Mays morning the most ples-ent we have had on the voyage. The water almost 
perfectly smooth. A calm. Hardly air enough to move a sail. The captain sounded for bottom but 
could not find it. We are spending the time ples-ently. The capt took the names, ages, & 
occupations of each passenger in order to make out a correct entry when he arives in port. 

5th We have a warm plesent morning but almost a dead calm. We sail about 2 not an hour. They 
sounded but could not find bottom. We saw a large School of porposes to the north of us. 

Elder Peter Maughan lost a child this morning 6 weeks old. His wife died a short time before he 
set sail. The body of this Child was committed to a watery grave by sewing it up in a cloth tying a 
stone to it & sinking it in the sea on the banks of Newfoundland in Lat 42.25 Long 50.10. 

We had a vary Chilly fog in the evening. 

6th The wind has Changed to the (south west). We have a light breeze. Sail 8 not an hour. We 
passed a full rigged ship in the evening. Wind Changed to the N.E. Sail 12 not an hour. All the 
Saints on board are well except Sister Richards who is still feeble. We enjoy ourselves well. We 
sing & pray with the saints morning & evening. I never enjoyed my self better with the Twelve 


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than about these days. Union prevails among us & we dwell together in love. 

7th Wind S.W. head wind. It is still vary foggy. We are in Lattitude 42 Long 55 making 3 hours 
28 min from Liverpool making 945 miles still to sail to New York. 810 geographical miles. 

A vary hard storm arose in the evening from the S.W. The Sails were taken in. The Heavens 
gatherd blackness, the sea rolled into mountains, & the Captain looked wild. In the midst of this 
their was a fight between the cook & the Irish, which was stoped by the first mate who interfered. 
We had the roughest night at sea which we have seen since we have been on the voyage. The 
spars & other things were afloat on the main deck. 

8th Fair weather but high head winds from the S.W. Sea rough. We shiped some heavy seas. One 
Sail in sight. The captain had his hat blown into the sea while taking observations with his 
quadrant. We have passed two Sail to day. 

I had a long conversation with the second mate in the evening whose name was Steward. He gave 
me a rehearsal of his sea fareing life for 20 years which was interesting. He had Sailed twice 
around the world been within 14 degrees of the south pole, had had his vessel blockaded by 
floating mountains of Ice nearly a mile high for many days, which Ice burges freequently come in 
contack with each other which makes a report like an earthquake or peels of thunder. He has 
crossed the pacific several times visited the East Indies & China & says in all his sailing he has 
never found a wors sea or ocean for stormes than the Atlantic, ie the Liverpool & New York 
trade. After conversing several hours I retired to my berth & had a good nights rest. 

9th Sunday Strong N wind. Vary Cold. Sail 12 not an hour towards New York. The coldest day 
we had on the voyage. The wind went down with the sun. I walked the deck in the evening with 
O Pratt & conversed about many things among which was the subject of the death of Elder David 
W. Patten & writing A history of his life. We are within 15 degrees of Long of New York. 

10th A fine plesent morning but a calm. We paid our Cook bill to day which was £0.10 half a 
sovreign each. I paid Elder Young £1.10 And Elder Kimball £2.8 shillings which made a 
settlement of all our affairs. 

Elders Kimball O. Pratt & myself undertook to climb the riging of the Ship. Elders Kimball & O. 
Pratt went up to the round top of the main mast about 50 feet & returned. I dumb over the round 
top & went up to the main top gallant sail about 100 feet from the upper deck which was the top 
of the rope ladders. I could go no higher without climing a single bear rope so I returned to the 
deck. I found it required some presens of mind & caution to go up & down the riging of a ship as 
she was waving in the air. We had a calm night. 

1 1th A strong west head wind but warm. We sail 9 not an hour to the North. We passed a full 
rigged ship standing the same way that we were. We have sailed by evry Ship that we have come 
in sight of since we left Liverpool. 

12th Still head wind. Fair weather but cool. We passed by a ship this morning. Ho! ! ! Ho! ! ! Capt 


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Woodhouse proclaims land in sight over our windward stem in the North West which prooved to 
be Cape Sables of Novascosia Coast of Halifax. We soon saw it with the Naked eye. This is 21 
days sailing. 

13th A perfect dead Calm. Sea smooth still Cloudy. We had head wind in the evening. 

14th A Calm. We are perfectly still. I commenced reading the History of England by the Rev 
John Adams AM 1803. We are in Lat 41, Long 67 from Greenwich & 7 from N.Y being 365 
miles from NY. 

15th A plesent morning. A light breeze from the S.W. Sea perfectly smooth. We sail 4 not an 
hour. We saw a school of Mackerel. I walked the deck in a calm Serene evening & had some 
plesent meditations concerning the past, present, & future. 

16th Sunday A light west Breeze. Sail 4 not an hour. We saw a top sail schooner to the east of us 
probably going to Boston. We sounded & found bottom in about 20 fathoms on Nantucket 
Soundings. Sail 8 not in the evening. 

17th A strong W. head wind. Run 8 not an hour to the N.W. We are now gitting into great danger 
of the shoals & bottoms as wind is against us we can only about hold our own. The sea is much 
choped this morning. Appears some like Lake Erie. 

We Came in full view of Long Island at about 3 o-clock P.M. A pilot boat hove in sight & made 
for us. About the same time A french Sail to the Lea-ward of us raised her flag & made for the 
pilot boat. We took our pilot on board at 4 oclock. We soon came in sight of 5 Sail. We kept in 
sight of Long Island during the evening. Our pilot informed us that he had not herd from the 
Oxford or any ship that Left Liverpool at the time we did & even for several days before. So we 
had made the best voyage of any at this time of sailing. He had not herd from the steem ship 
President but expected she was Lost. Wind went down in the evening. 

18th A strong N.W. wind. Sail 9 not an hour. No land in sight. I had the perusal of a New York 
Paper which informed us of the death of General Harrison President of the U.S.A. He Died on 
the 4th April 1841 Just a month after taking the Presidential Chair. This is the first President that 
has Died in the U.S.A. while filling that office. 

We came in full view of the Jersey shore & 10 or 15 sail in the afternoon. I felt to rejoice to once 
more behold the America shore my native country after being absent from it 16 months. We had 
a view of Barnagar Lighthouse as we passed along. 

19th I went on deck at 4 o-clock in the morning to see them go through. We had head wind & 
had to beat through which made it dangerous. We passed through the hook. Run into a fishing 
smack. Came near sinking her with all on board. We had a view of the horse shoe and all the 
light houses as we passed along we saw 50 fishing smack waiting for bait. We raised our flag on 
the top of the main mast. Having head wind we could not run in. We got within 4 miles of the 
quarentene ground & cast anchor at 1 1 oclock. 


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A steem boat came along side & took the Liverpool papers containing the latest news. The Editor 
Paid $45 dollars for the steem boat to bring him down to the ship to get the news. 

We have been 29 days from Liverpool to our casting Anchor this morning. We raised our Anchor 
in the afternoon & went in with the tide on to the quarentene ground & again droped our anchor. 

The physician came on board searched the passengers & found them well. But we shall be 
quarrenteened untill tomorrow. Now is the time we need much patience & long suffering in 
bearing one With another in taking our baggage going through the custom House & getting 
settled in New York. The Captain went on shore at night. 

20th Wann plesent weather. We commenced early in the morning getting our baggage on deck. 
Passengers went to washing & cleaning up. It was a vary busy time. Their was a fight between 
the carpenter & second mate which was ended by the first mate who brused the carpenters Head 
badly by striking him with a junk bottle. 

Two quarentene lighters Came along side of the Rochester & took off all the passengers & 
baggage & took us all to the Custom House. Here we had to unload all the baggage which were 
examined by the Custom House officer & out of 300 passengers we were not Charged duty for 
the first article. 

We had to load evry thing again on board of the lighters who took us to New York City & when 
we arived at the docks we found them coverd with horses & drays & about 50 drayman who 
stood ready to leap on board & devour all our baggage & because we were not willing to have 
our things stolen from us & be defrauded out of our rights but felt disposed to do our own 
busines without being forced to measures by carman, they cursed & swore at a dreadful rate & 
appeared more like cannibals than civilized men. But after much trouble & difficulty we got our 
goods out of the lighters & loaded them on to drays & constantly had to keep a guard over them 
to keep them from being stolen. We were untill 10-o-clock at night getting of the docks to an Inn, 
whare we spent the night. 

I was the nearest tired to death by fatigue & labour that I ever was in my life, for I was 
continually loading & unloading boxes chests, barrels & trunks from sunrise untill 10 o-clock at 
night, without eating or drinking. 

I took a hearty supper about midnight & lay down in a room whare their was two Children 
expected to die hourly. I did not sleep a moment. Arose in the morning & again Commenced 
Carting baggage. 

I truly felt to rejoice to once more step upon our native shore. I thank God for sparing my life & 
giving me Such a blessing. We spent the night at the Battery Pavilion. Distance from Liverpool 
to New York is (3,500 miles). 

21st We paid our bill & took locations in different parts of the city. Elder Geo. A. Smith & 


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myself took up our abode with Elder L R. Foster who appeared glad to see us & made us 
Wellcome. I also was privleged with an interview with Messrs Ezra & Ilus Carter my Brothers in 
Law also Dr. Charles Fabyan. I send a bundle to Phebe by Ezra Carter. I was truly glad to see the 
face of my friends & the saints once more. I found that Elders Young, Kimball, & O. Pratt had 
taken logings at the house of Elder Adams 186 Woster Street 2 doors from I. F. Carter. 

[] I received 2 letters from Phebe. One contained a page from my mother giving an account of the 
Low State of health of Sister Eunice. 

22d I had the purusal of the 12 & 13th No of the Times & Seasons which was highly interesting 
giving an account of the Laying the corner stones of the House of the Lord in the presens of 
about 10,000 persons, & many other things of Interest. 

Married in New York City May 22d by Elder W Woodruff Mr. Edward Ockey to Miss Eliza 
Brewer both from Castle Froome Herefordshire Eng. the day following their arival. This is the 
first time I have had the honour of officiating at a marriage ceremony. This was at the house of 
Elder J. W. Latson's in the presence of the quorum of the Twelve. 

Br & Sister Irskine lost a child this day which was buried. 

23d Sunday I met in council with the Twelve in the morning. 

I called upon Br I. F Carter who accompanied his Mother in Law to our place of meeting in the 
National Hall Canal Street at which place the quorum of the Twelve met in the morning & 
addressed a large Congregation of Citizens. Elders Young, Kimball, Pratt & Woodruff occupied 
the time in giving an Account of our mission. The congregation of Saints was composed of 
persons from London Liverpool, Manchester & other parts of England, Scotland, & Ireland as 
well as New York. 

24th I wrote } 2 Letters one to Aphek Woodruff, one to Phebe W. Woodruff. I spent a busy day 
in the City. I visited the City Hall & other pub-lick buildings in Company with Elder Smith & Dr. 
Bernhisel 176 Hudson st. the Bishop of the Church in New York. 

25th I.F. Carter was called to sit on Jury in the case of a murder. A young man cut the throat of 
his mother in a state of insanity. 

I took 76 Vol’s of the Star to be bound by Mr Joseph A. Clussmans 465 pearl st. comer of 
Chatham. I preached at night at J W. Latsons. 

26th I visited various parts of the city. I bought a Trunk for Phebe. Paid $5.50 for it. 

27 I spent the day visiting the city & Shiping with Dr Bernhisel, W Richards & G. A. Smith. We 
visited the Frigate Brandy wine of 60 guns & the North Carolina a 74 gun ship but could mount 
120 guns. All things appeared neat Clean & in great order on board these Ships. 

We also crossed the river to Jersey side & went through the various appartments of the steem 


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Ship of war now building for the Emperor of Rusia. It is to be finished in the greatest elegance & 
stile. It is strong, large, mounts 14 guns & cost about $500,000 dollars. It contains a large two 
headed eagle standing under a crown both on the bow & stern. Its state rooms and cabins are 
finished with the best of Mahogany. * [The asterisk is Woodruffs .] We also visited the Custom 
House & merchants exchange. 

28th * I Coppyed a long Revelation, given Nauvoo Jan 19, 1841. 1 also packed my trunk for 
taking my departure to see my family in the state of Maine. 

29th I got 76 vol of the Millennial star bound and a number of them lettered for which I paid 
$13.40. 

30 Sunday I preached in the morning at the National Hall. Held a conference in the Afternoon. 
Herd br Kimball in the evening. Ilus F Carter & Martha Sloan attended meeting. 

3 1st Left my Baggage with Br Ilus & took steam Boat Belle for Providence. Arived there early 
next morning. Distance 100. 


June 

June 1st I took rail cars & rode to Boston. Spent the day in Boston. Called upon Mrs Ball No 12 
Butolph. Also Miss Vose 57 Temple Street. I took the steemer Portland at 7 o-clock & arived in 
Portland at 7 o-clock next morning. Whole distance of the day 200. 

2d I arived in Portland at 7 oclock. Called upon widow Hale, Also Mr Ezra Carter. I took stage 
for Scarborough & arived at Father Carters in the afternoon & was once more pennitted to 
embrace my Wife & also a son which I had not before seen. This after being seperated from my 
family almost two years. It was truly a happy interview not ownly with my wife & Child but with 
the whole houshold. 1 1 miles. 

3d Spent the day with my family. 

4th } I wrote a letter to D.C. Smith. Sent for the second volumn of times & Seasons to be sent to 
Aphek Woodruff from Commencment to Ezra Carter from 13th No. One No of each for W. 
Woodruff to be kept for him & I will pay for all on my arival. 

5th I wrote a letter to Milton Holmes. } 

6th I attended meeting & herd Peter Libby preach. He appeared to be an honest man. I spoke a 
few words. 

7th I rode in company with Phebe to Capt Joshua Moulton. Freedom was at home. I read several 
peaces written against the mormons or Saints. 20. 

8th 9th I spent the day at Father Carters. 


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10th I spent the day fishing at sea in company with Joseph F. Carter, Ezra Carter Freedom 
Moulton & 3 others. We Cought rising of 200, mostly Haddock. I cought 3 codfish. We went 
onto the rocks & dined upon a rich Haddock Chouder & boiled Clams. We had to tow our boat 
up the river because of head winds. <Distance of the day> 15 m. 

1 1th I spent the day at Sister Foss. 

12th I returned to Father Carters. 

13th Sunday I attended meeting at the Methodist meeting house in the morning. I held a meeting 
at Sister Sarah B Foss at 2 o-clock & preached to a large Congregation most of which were 
destitute of faith in the fulness of the Gospel. 

[ ] 

/Russian steam ship Camchatskia. Main shaft eleven tons. It is 235 feet in length, 40 foot beam. 
Carries 16 guns, 12 & 32 Pounders, 4 cannono-dar. Cost $500,000. Requires 500 men to arm 
her./ 

June 14th Spent the day at fathers Carters. 

15th I rode to Portland in company with Phebe & Joseph F Carter & wife & spent the Day at Mr 
Ezra Carter. 

16th Spent the day with Sister Foss. 

17th } I wrote a letter to Sisters Ann & Elizabeth Ockey in England. 

18th } I wrote a letter to sister Ruth Luce & Lurena S Hopkins in answer to theirs of Feb 7th 
1841 which spoke of the Labours, Sickness & Death of Elder John Merrett who Died in October 
1840 at Br Isaac Crockets South fox Island vinal Haven Maine. 

19th Phebe employed Mrs Martha's to assist her in sewing in making some Dresses. I spent the 
Day at father Carters. [] I received a letter from Milton Holmes. 

20th Sunday I spent the Day at father Carters. 

2 1st ^ I wrote a letter to Sister Eunice Woodruff. 

22d Willford is 15 months this day. 

23d I spent the afternoon in company with father & mother Carter & Phebe at Doctor Suels. 

24th I rode to the Point & put little Willford in the Salt Watter. [] I recieved a letter from W. 
Richards. 

25th I spent the day at father Carters. I read Millers lectures on the Coming of Christ & the 


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Millenniul & on a variety of other subjects such as the vissions of Ezekiel, Daniel & John, the 
beast opening the seals &c. & he has made out as much of a whole sail business in spirituallizing 
the scriptures & trying to make out the fulfillment of all predictions of the old & new Testiment 
by refering to the French Government & other afairs which was as foreign from the subject as 
Heaven is from Hell, & among many other absurdities his declaration is that the Turkish empire 
& Government will be destroyed in (1840) & the Second Coming of Christ will be in 1843. 

26th I read the narative of the life and medical Discoveries of Dr SAMUEL THOMSON which 
were truly interesting & beneficial to mankind. I have no doubt but that his invention theory & 
practice of administering roots barks & herbs as medicine, is a great blessing to mankind & is 
one of the greatest improvments of the last days & is causing a great revolution throughout 
America in the mode of practice, by which means he has drawn down a flood of persecution & 
slander upon his head. I Copied Dr Thomsons instructions on preparing medicine & 
administering it. 

27th I remained at Father Carters through the day. I read A narative of the ship wreck, captivity 
and sufferings of HORACE HOLDEN & BENJ. H. NUTE who was cast away in the American 
Ship Mentor on the Pelew Islands, in the year 1832 And for two years afterwards were subjected 
to unheard of sufferings among the barbarous inhabitants of Lord North's Island, In North Lat 3’3 
and East Long 131 ’20’. This was truly an interesing but painful narrative. 

28th :)■ I wrote a letter to Elder M. Holmes Infonning him that I would meet him on Tuesday the 
6th of July at 1 1 o-clock AM at S Wilders Hotel No 1 1 Elm street Boston the Lord willing. I also 
wrote Luther Scamman name in a copy of the Millennial star and gave it to him. 

29th I rode to the beach & went into the Salt water with several others. The water was vary cold. 
<Phebe and the [ladies?] went in> Spent the day at Sister Foss. 

30th [] I received a letter from Eunice & Mother Woodruff informing me that Sister Eunice was 
nigh unto death. Had a relaps of her Sickness & also infonned me that Br Webster had returned, 
& visited them. It seemed from the Import of the letter that it had been through a great struggle, 
exercise of faith, & the mercy of God that Eunice was in the land of the living. I immediately 
carried her case befor the Lord & plead in her behalf & I was blessed with a testimony that She 
would recover & that I should soon see her face to face. 

[] I also recieved 2 New York Papers from Ilus one of which contained an account of the taking 
of President Joseph Smith by a warrant of Governor Carlin under the requisition of the Governor 
of Missouri, & was however brought up on a habeas corpus. The intent is to deliver him to the 
governor of Missouri. The paper also stated that their was much excitement among the Saints 
upon the Subject &c. The spirit of persecution has been kept alive against the saints in all ages of 
the world & will not long sleep untill the Ancient of Days shall sit. I spent the day at Sister Foss. 

July 


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July 1st I visited some of the Neighbours & spent the remaining part of the day at father Carters. I 
procured two good Calf Skins of father Carter, & Fox Lovett made me two pair of Boots one of 
Cow Hide one of Calf skin & also made Phebe two pair of shoes. 

2d I rode to Br Luther Scareman. Visited about 3 hours. Returned to sister Foss. (Spent about 3 
hours with Br & Sister Edward Milliken they being the ownly persons I have seen from Buxton 
Since my arival in Scarborough. They sent several articles by me to Sarah Milliken viz. one 
Letter, one oil Cloth, 2 pair of Stockings for Arthur, & one muslin Collar.) I returned to father 
Carters & spent the evening at John Fabyans. Ezra Carter Jr. was present. This closes my visiting 
in [ ] for thePresent. 8 miles. 

July 3d I spent the day at father Carters. We had a Number of visiters among whom were 
Freedom Moulton & his two Sisters. 

JULY 4th 1841 Sunday I spent the Day at father Carters. Mr Lowel & wife were present & 

Luther & Rhoda Scareman were at fathers on a visit. I Paid Luther Scamman $10 ten dollars for 
money which he paid for Phebe on the passage home. 

5th 1 took the parting hand with Father Carter & his houshold & rode with Joseph F Carter to 
Portland. Spent several hours with Ezra Carter jr. We then went on board of the Steamer Bangor 
& spent the night. 12 miles. 

6th We left Portland at 7 o-clock on board the Bangor. The sea was rough & most all was sea 
sick. We arived in Boston at 6 o-clock in the evening. We Spent the night in Boston at the 
Layfaett Hotel. 1 had a vary interesting time in the evening with Elder Freeman Nickelson Sister 
Vose, (57 Temple Street) Sister Cobb & others who called at our room & spent the evening. 

They were vary anxious that I should stop & Preach with them but my circumstances would not 
permit. The distance of the Day 110 miles. 

7th 1 Sold Elder Nicklson $23 dollars worth of Books of Mormon, Stars, &c. 1 parted with the 
friends & took the Woster rail road, & road to woster. From thence to Springfield, at which place 
1 took Steem Boat & rode to Hartford & spent the night at the Hartford Hotel. Distance of the day 
130 miles. 

8th 1 took stage & rode to Farmington to my Fathers house & was made welcome once more to 
the house of my friends. 1 found Sister Eunice recovering from her sickness but was still low. 
Mother appeared worn down by fatigue but was enjoying good health. Fathers health is good but 
he feels his age. 10 miles. 

July 9th I [] recieved 2 letters from Elder W. Richard’s. 1 perused a letter from Br Azmon 
Woodruff & one from Thompson Woodruff. 1 was truly glad to hear from them once more. We 
had a visit from Miss Jennet Stedman & Mr & Mrs Burgess. 

10th Spent the day at father Woodruffs. 


Page7 1 




1 1th Sunday Spent the day at father Woodruff. 

12th } I wrote a letter to Sister Betsey Cossett & sent a paper to our friends in Maine. I wrote two 
verses in Mrs Mary Ann Hills Album Shall I behold the Nations doomed &c. 

13th I spent the day at Father Woodruff. 


14th I wrote the following lines in Eunice Woodruff Album: 


Not all the wealth of earth combined 
Can give content like the innocent mind 
Who in the flower of youthful bloom 
Can taste the joys of a rural home. 

Free from borrowed care and anxious thought 
Contentment reigns in the peasant's cot. 

As natures wants are few they'r soon supplied 
Without the aid of crime or pomp or pride. 

Innocent as the flowers that bloom in spring 
She shares in all the Joys that time can bring 
While nature in her lovliness here doth act her part 
Her unstudied posture speaks the language of the heart. 
O! reader learn wisdom from the PEASANT COT 
And be content with thy future LOT. 


I rode to West Hartford with Br Webster & Sister Eunice. 5 miles. 

I wrote the following lines in sister Eunice Woodruff Album in Farmington July 18th 1837: 


ACROSTIC 

Vera amicita est sempitema 

Esteem those virtues that ornament the human Soul. 
Upward seek for aid while dangers round the roll. 

No power can guard thee like a friend divine 
Increase thy joys or ornament thy mind. 

Celestial joys and peace may God on the bestow 
Even when called to part with friends below. 


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While kindred love our consanguine hearts unite 
Oft will the Seenes of life our sympathy invite. 

O do not withhold a Charitable generous hand. 

Distress releave, Good bestow when it's at thy command. 
Remember WILLFORD whose mission is now abroad 
Unto the Nations beyond the rolling flood. 

For thy salvation HE will ever pray 
For God to save thee in ETERNAL DAY. 

Eunice Willford 


15th I spent the day at Father Woodruff. Elder Olivor Olney spent the night with us & left us this 
morning. 

16th I spent the day at father Woodruff. 

17th I spent the day in writing. 

18th Sunday I preached at 5 o-clock P.M. at Father Woodruff house. The people gave good 
attention. 

19th Br Dwight Webster & Sister Eunice Woodruff rode into Hartford to do some tradeing & 
among other things they purchased their wedding Dress. * I filled a page in Phebe's Album. 

20th I spent the day at father Woodruff. 

211 had an interview with General Soloman Cowles 85 years of age. We conversed some upon 
religion. He invited me to visit him. 

July 22d I spent several hours with Elders Burgess & Carter from Kirtland at father Woodruffs 
house. [] I received a letter from Sister Phebe Wheeler. } I wrote A letter to Sister Phebe Wheeler. 
I also wrote a letter to cousins John, Seth, & Melinda Woodruff. I had a visit from Mrs Mary Ann 
Hills Also from Aunt Anna Cossett. 

23d } I wrote a letter to cousins Betsey, Ann, & Cyrus Cossett. 

24th I spent the day at Fathers in reading. 

25th Sunday I Preached at 5 o-clock at father Woodruff house. 

26th I carried Eunice out to a ride. I received a letter [] from cousin Betsey Cossett, & the 17 No 
of the times & seasons which was interesting. 


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27th I spend the day at father Woodruff. 

28th I preached at night at father Woodruff. 

29th I spent the afternoon on a visit at Miss Jennett Stedmans in company with Phebe, Eunice, 
Aunt Gossett, & Mother Woodruff. 

30th g I rode to Avon. Called upon uncle Ezra and Aunt Lydia. Found Ezra some out of health. I 
then passed by the fann, Hills & Mills, & house &c. the place of my birth & nativity. It brought 
fresh to mind the seenes of my childhood & youth. I called upon Mr Horris Judd's family. Spent a 
few moments. I also called upon Aunt Wheeler & dined with her. I had an interview with Luther. 

I then rode to symsbury & spent the night with Aunt Gossett & family. Aunt Bulah Hart was also 
present. Distance of the day 12 mi. 

3 1st I rode from Simsbury in company with cousins Betsy & Ann Gossett to canton. Called upon 
uncle Alson Thompson, Also upon uncle Ozem & his family. I then returned to Farmington in 
the rain & spent the night at my fathers Elder Dwight Webster being present with us. Distance 12 
m. 


August 

August 1st Sunday I preached to a large congregation of the citizens of Farmington at my Fathers 
House. 

2d This was a busy day with the whole family in making Cake & other preperations for the 
wedding of Sister Eunice. 

3d Dr Noah Porter of Farmington called upon me to see me. He conversed with me concerning 
our principles; wished miracles to be wrought to Convince him that our doctrin is true. 


Aug 4th 1841 
HYMENIAL 

Married In Farmington Hartford Co. Connecticut, Aug 4th by Elder Willford Woodruff. Mr. 
Dwight Webster, to Miss Eunice Woodruff of Farmington Ct. 


There was between 40 & 50 persons attended the weding most of which were our relatives which 
gave me the privilege of an interview with many friends among whome was uncle Ozem 
Woodruff family John & Seth &c. Also Bulah Hart, Ezra Hart, Lydia Hart Betsey & Ann Cossett 
& others. We spent the time agreeable while together though our interview was short. Sister 
Eunice Health is not vary good as yet. 


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5th I spent the day at fathers House. I Conversed much with Aunt Bulah Hart concerning the 
fulness of the gospel. 

6th In company with Mrs Woodruff, Mrs Burgess & Miss Jennett Stedman I visited the African 
School in which are the African Slaves that were kidnaped at Menda, & sold at Lomboho, taken 
to Cuba Sold to some Spaniard who sailed for the United States. When four days out at sea the 
Africans arose & killed the captain & crew except two who they preserved to steer the Ship. 

They were taken of Long Island N.Y. & had their trial at Hartford, & New-haven Ct. were set 
free, taken to Farmington to be educated. I conversed some with Cingue the Leader of the 
company. They make good proficiency in learning. Many take deep interest in visiting this 
school. 

After spending an hour or two in the school we returned to Mr Burgess & took tea. Early in the 
evening Dr Noah Porter entered the room with his heart filled with madness anger & subtlety 
against the fulness of the gospel my testimony & Joseph Smith &c. He commenced conversation 
vary adruptly & we continued our conversation without sceaseation untill near 10 o-clock. I bore 
testimony unto him of the work of God Book of mormon &c but he rejected my testimony in the 
Strongest tenn & evry thing in the fonn of Prophets Apostles, revelation, Inspiration or the gift of 
the Holy Ghost, Healings Miracles tongues &c. Seemed to be much stired up because the work 
had come to Fannington. But I done my duty answered my mind, bore testimony of the truth. 

After he left the house I prayed with the family & those present could see the spirit manifest in 
Dr Noah Porter was dictated by the powers of Darkness. I was glad to have this opportunity of 
bearing testimony to Dr Porter of the work of God that he might be left without excuse. I 
returned to my Fathers house but before retiring to rest I repaired to the river & cleansed my feet 
with water in testimony against Dr Noah Porter In obediance to the commandment of God that 
my garments might be clear of his blood & I say in the name of Jesus Christ that if he does not 
repent of the course he has persued in this thing, he will no longer Prosper but the judgments of 
God will be upon him. 

7th One of the Menda Africans was drowned in the canal a few rods from Fathers house. I saw 
the body soon after it was taken out of the water. His name was Fawney. Many persons were 
gatherd together on the occasion, among others cousin Eldad Woodruff. 

Cousin Betsey Cossett parted with us to day & returned home. 

8th I preached at my fathers house in Fannington. I have Conversed much with Aunt Bulah Hart 
concerning the fullness of the gospel. She appeared to received my testimony. 

9th Was a rainy day. I spent the time at fathers House. 

10 & 1 1th Spent the days at father Woodruff. 

12th Aunt Bulah Hart was Baptized into the Church of Latter Day Saint this day under the hands 


Page75 




of Elder Dwight Webster & I confirmed her. 

13th 14th I packed up my tru nk s & prepared for leaving my fathers house & continue my 
journey. I had a Severe swelling on my chin sumthing in the form of a large blind bile. It was 
vary sore & tedious. 

15th Sunday Elder Dwight Webster Preached to a congregation at fathers house. 

16th g Elder Dwight Webster sent $5 dollars by me for the building of the Temple of the Lord in 
Nauvoo Also $4 dollars for the 2d & 3d No of the Times & Seasons. I am now watching for a 
boat to go to Newhaven. During the evening I Baptized Miss Jennett Stedman & also confirmed 
her. I felt to rejoice at this. 

17th I spent the day at father Woodruff. 

Aug 18th I spent the day at Fathers House it being the last day that I spent there. This makes 41 
days that I have spent at my Fathers house the longest visit I have made with any of my friends 
for the last 10 years. During my stay on this occasion I have had the privilege of performing the 
marriage Cerimony of my ownly sister, Eunice Woodruff & Elder Dwight Webster. Also 
Baptized & confirmed two into the Church viz Aunt Bulah Hart & Jennet Stedman. This was a 
consolation to me. 

I took the parting hand with Father and all the houshold & went on board of the Farmington 
Canal Boat. Capt Denton, Erastus Woodruff & Ozem Woodruff were the hands on board. We 
spent the night on board, about one mile from Fathers House. 

19 We rode to Cheshire & spent the night. 16 miles. 

20th We rode to Newhaven & on the way a woman came on board & we spent about 3 hours in 
conversing about the Book of mormon Latter Day Saints, &c. She railed much against the Book 
of Mormon, & was angry because of the truth of God. She informed [me] she belonged to a new 
sect that had lately risen up. A Mr Bradley at Cheshire was their prophet. They Baptize by 
immersion. They consider Mr Bradley the servant David spoken of by Ezekiel & other prophets 
that was to be raised up unto Israel & also that Prophet that should be raised up like unto Moses 
& many things that were ridiculous. 

It had been about 15 years since I had been in New Haven. I was truly pleased to once more see 
the capitol of my native State. The citizens are building a large expensive wall around their 
burying ground to keep the dead bodies from going to the medical coiledge. 40,000 dollars has 
been expended & more is needed. I left the Canal, took Coach rode to the steemer New York & 
went on board. 15 miles. 

21 Arived in New York at 4 o-clock AM. Landed in the east river Peck slip. Br Burge carried us 
& baggage on his truck cart to 186 Woster st whare we took up our abode with Sister Evens Br & 
Sister Jerman & sister Adams. Distance 100 miles. 


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Sunday 22d This was a day of interest to me in many respects. Having returned to the Church in 
New York I looked for much News & information from many sources both religious & political 
temporal & spiritual. In this I was not disappointed for I had the perusal of the New York papers, 
1 & 2 No of the 2d vol of the Mill Star in England besides late letters from P. P. Pratt & O Hyde, 
Also the 19 No of the Times & Seasons from Nauvoo & a letter still later. All these things 
together brought a flood of News. Some of it was painful & some heart cheering. 

I learned from the general news of the day that nearly the whole earth & all nations are in 
commotion. War between England & China still continues. British troops trying to enter Canton 
&c. At the same time England has great internal commotion at home. Parliament is dissolved, a 
new ministry elected. Great excitement, poverty, distress & want prevails evrywhare. Thousands 
are starving to death & hundreds of thousands are in want. Banks are breaking. Merchants 
becoming Bankrups. Factories are stoping. Men are out of employ & bread. The enraged 
populace are crying against the government, down with the Com laws &c. 

At the same time trouble is going on in America. The Cabinet can scearcely hold together. 
Congress is divided against itself. President Tyler has vetoed the Bank Bill, & great confusion 
reigns at the seat of government. Also on the boundary line of Maine & New Brunswick & the 
rumour of war! ! between England and America is heard upon evry hand & while this seenery is 
going on, the wreck of shiping, blowing up of steem boats, awful sacrifice of human life, fires, 
Earthquakes & storms, murder, lying, swearing & theft, with almost evry evil thing clearly shows 
the signs of the times which indicate that an awful storm is gathering over the heads of a guilty 
generation which is spedily to burst upon the nations by the power & wrath of God which will 
engulph millions of the human family in min & destruction. 

The Stars from England as well as the letters informed me of the rapid progress of the work of 
God, the fulness of the everlasting gospel increase to the Church of Christ of Latter Day Saints 
but this in the midst of the most unparalleled opposition & fals rumour from Priest & people of 
evry sect and party who have deluged the whole land with tracts pamphlets & newspaper stories 
against the Saints. But notwithstanding this the work still progresses throughout that land. It is 
doing well in London Manchester & many other places in England, Scotland, Wales &c. 

Elder Hyde has gone to Germany on his way to Jerrusalem. Elder P. P. Pratt also informed us in 
his letter that 50,000 persons have met at a time in Manchester concerning the corn law's Also 
Chartist meetings that blood is shed at these cases & great excitement Prevails. 

In reading the times & seasons in the west I learned many things that the work of the Lord is still 
progressing in this land in the midst of all opposition, that all the Twelve had arived at Nauvoo 
that was expected but myself. 

I also learned the painful intelligence that Sister Alice Consort of Oliver Olney aged 41 Died on 
the 16th of July. Elder Olney is in Connecticut & knows not of the Death of his wife. I had an 
interview with him a few weeks since at my fathers house. Also DROWNED in the City of 


Page77 




Nauvoo July 23d Samuel W. aged 8 years and James F. C. aged 6 years both Children of Stephen 
and Mary Luce fonnerly from fox islands Maine. I Baptized Br & Sister Luce. 

I also Learned by letter from R. B. Thompson that Don Carlos Smith the Editor of the Times & 
Seasons is Dead. This was truly painful intelligence to me. I loved him. He was a worthy man. 

He has maintained his integrity unto the end has died in faith & rests in peace. 

In addition to having these things to meditate upon during the day I was called upon to preach 
three times in the Church in the city. The citizens appear much more opposed against the Saints 
at the present time than ever before since the rise of the church not ownly in New York but 
throughout the United States as well as Europe. It seems as though all Earth & Hell were making 
one united effort to overthrow the church by deluging the earth in lies. Publick meetings are held 
against us & Newspapers are constantly publishing falshoods against us of the Blackest die untill 
one is ready to conclude the day has come when "men are left to believe a lie that they might be 
damned because they have pleasure in unwrighteousness and believe not the truth. 

After the labours of the day I was weary & retired to rest. 

23d This mornings papers bring us news of an awful disaster at Sarycuse N.Y. Fire broke out & a 
large body of people gatherd around it when thirty casks of powder exploded. Killed 30 wounded 
50 & done much damage. The steem boat Missouri is burned & 2 other boats much damaged. 
Great excitement prevails on the disputed territory of Maine & their is great prospect of war. A 
new sect called Israelites the followers of John Roe are lecturing in New York. 

Our child is taken sick with the bowel complaint. Sister Carters child is badly poisioned with 
eating Ginsen burs. He took sumthing to vomit. We lade hands upon him. He soon got well. 

24th I had an interview with Dr Bemhisel 176 Hudson st & with Br. Everett. I visited various 
parts of the city. Called upon Mrs Latson 68 Columbia St & at the post office, and upon Elder 
Foster Oliver st. When I returned home I found Phebe upon her bed almost speachless & sensless 
with pain in the head and Jaw. Her Jaws were stiff & almost set. She had never had a turn of the 
kind before. We lade hands upon her & prayed for her & also for Willford who was sick with the 
bowel complaint & after doing this & administering to their wants they soon was better & had a 
comfortable nights rest. Distance of the day 3 miles. 

25th Phebe & the babe are still unwell to day. } I wrote a letter to Elder Lorenzo Snow. 

26th My family is still unwell & I have a severe cold myself. I have many visiters calling upon 
me among whome to day was Brother Davis direct from Nauvoo. He brings good knews from 
that city of the progress of the work of the Lord & the building of the Temple &c. 

Aug 27th } I wrote 5 letters to London to the following persons: P. P. Pratt, James Albon Henry 
Connor, Amos Fielding, Ellen B. Redman which I sent by Br Redman in care of L. Snow. 

Mr Bennett Editor of the New York Herald has published in to days paper a long article from the 


Page78 




Times & Seasons giving an account of the mission of the Twelve in Europe their Success & 
return to Nau-voo & also entire our address to the people of the united States containing our 
principles &c. 

My family is some better to day. I had an interview with Ilus F Carter my Br in Law also with Br 
Davis. 

28th } I wrote a letter to Elder Lorenzo Snow. [] I received a letter from Sister Phebe Wheelan 
which she wrote many days since. She has just arived in this city wishing to accompany my 
family to Nauvoo. She has suffered great persecution in recieving the fulness of the gospel. 

From this morning papers it seems the country is still in agitation. Mob & Lynch law seems to 
rule through the land. I read in this mornings Sun an advertizment for me to preach in the 
National Hall tomorrow. I suppose this is the production of Elder Foster pen. 

29th Sunday A very rainy day. I attending meeting three times during the day at the National 
Hall. Elder Foster Preached in the morning & I preached in the afternoon & evening. I dined with 
Elder Foster. 

30th Visited various parts of the city. Spent some part of the day with Ilus F Carter. 

3 1st I packed up my trunks to prepare for continuing my journey. 

September 

Sept 1st The first day of fall. I left New York * on Board of Steem Boat Comet. Sailed to Stoney 
Brook Long Island. Distance 60 miles. Fare $1. When I landed I found Elder Hulse & Priest 
Robt. P. Wilson were waiting for me. I rode with them to Br Wilson & spent the night. The New 
York Sun of to day contains a most singular Phenonimen ever recorded in the last days. A 
shower of flesh & Blood, A pillar of smooke, & a shower of manney. I was introduced for the 
first time to Elder Quarters S. Sparks who I found was presiding over about 40 Saints at 
Setauket. I preached in the evening at Stoney Brook & spent the evening with Br Wilson. 

Sept 2d Preached in the chapel owned by the Saints in Seteauket in the evening. Spent the night 
at Br Hannon Bales. 

3d I preached at Westfield at the house of Br Allexander Rowland. Spent the night at Br Wilson. 
4th I spent the night at Br John Dentonpriest. 

5th Sunday I preached 3 time in the chapel. The meeting was formed into a conference. I was 
Chairman. Elder Sparks clerk. We expeled one. Ordained one Priest & one Deacon. I had an 
interesting time with the Saints. I sold 1 1 Books [of] mormon & 12 copy's of the Stars. 

Origen Bacheler who has held several debates with Adams & other of the Saints in New York 
was in this neighbourhood during the day. Held 2 meetings against the saints and defied any to 


Page79 




meet him in debate. Elder Sparks received his Challenge & is to meet him for a debate at the 
prysbeterian meeting house on Wednesday the 1 5 inst. 

While the Heavens & earth are full of fire, Blood, flesh, pillars of smoke, earthquakes trouble & 
commotion, the heathen imagin vain things & gentiles rage, & Bacheler & Sunderland & others 
are triing to debate & stop the fullness of the gospel & crying peace & safety But they will not 
prevail. The work of God will roll on. 

Sept 6th I took the Steemboat Comet in company with Elders Sparks & Hulse, & Mr. Bacheler & 
Sailed to New York. Found my family well. Went to a wedding with Mrs Woodruff & saw Elder 
Foster solumnize the marriage cerimony. Returned home & spentthe night. Distance 70 m. 

7th I recieved $2 dollars of Harmon Bayles for the Zerehemla Standard to Be sent to Harmon 
Bayles Seteauket Long Island, N.Y. Elder Foster Paid me $47.25 for 20 Books of mormon bound 
in calf, $1.75 cts each, 6 Ditto sheep bound 1.25 each & 8 Millennial Stars $1.50 cts each. I 
allowed him $7.50 cts for Selling the whole amount was $54.50 deduct 7.50 leaves $47.00 which 
was paid me by Elder Foster which settles the above. 

8th Wars & rumours of wars earthquakes tempest pestilence & great fires connected with almost 
evry kind of wickedness distress & destruction is begining to be heard through almost evry land 
& nation. 

I had a busy day. I bought 1 1 1/4 yards of Broad Cloth 1.75 per yard $30.95. 16 yards of 
Sattonett 70 cts $1 1.20 Total $42.14. One Bonnet 
$4.50. One hat $3.50. 

9th I recieved $40 dollars of Dr John M Bem-hisel for President Joseph Smith also Stephens 
travels in central America in 2 volums also one letter. /1 76 Hudson St./ This is one of my days of 
perplexity & confusion as I am to leave the city to day & have as much business to attend to in 6 
hours as I ought to do in two days. It seems to be my lot thus far in life to be hurried & crowded 
along as though I had but few moments to live. I spent the fore part of the day in packing trunk's 
beds &c. I also called upon L R Foster. 

Sept 9th Received of Willford Woodruff 15 
Books of Mormon bound in Calf $ 1 .50 cts each $34.50 
4 Ditto bound in sheep $ 1 4.00 

28 Millennial Stars bound $1 each 28.00 

$66.50 

The above is to be paid to Willford Woodruff when called for or the Books returned. 

L R Foster 

After labouring exceding hard through the day I took the parting hand with the saints at 186 


Page80 




woster & other places, & started for the <[steam?]> Boat Sanduskey. Ilus F Carter Carried me to 
the Boat with 533 lbs. of baggage. We got Blockaided in the street on the way which made us 
trouble & detained us, but after much perplexity we got on board of the boat at 6 oclock & 
departed for Albany on our road for Nauvoo. Our little company of saints consisted of 6 persons 
viz. Willford & Phebe W. Woodruff, Henry H. & Mary Moore. Mary M. Wheeler & Mary E. 
Nelson. Sister Wheeler had 600 lbs. baggage. 

I found on looking over my expenses including all I had paid out while in New York was $88.36. 

After getting under way & aranging matters I being vary weary I lay down & had a comfortable 
nights rest. 

10th I arose some unwell in consequence of the labour yesterday. Found myself at west point. It 
is a pleasent day. We spent the day plesently. The land present quite an interesting and romantic 
seen-ery from NY to Albany. 

1 1th Arived in albany this morning being one day & two nights from New York about 36 hours 
when the regular time of steemboats is 12 hours. The cause of this delay is taking so many boats 
in tow. Inform Dr Bemhisel that it would be wisdom for the Saints to take a steemboat that will 
come through in 12 hours to Albany, if the luggage is no more than what the captain will carry 
for it is better to give $1.50 cts to Albany in 12 hours than 50 cts in 36 hours & pay 1.50 cts for 
board during that time. Also inform the Saints not to pay through at the Commencment but from 
place to place & that at the end of the journey which will save emegrants from much insult & 
some expens. Their is nothing gained by draging out a long time on tow boats & slow lines. 
Distance to Albany 160 m. 

1 1th We made an agreement to go to Buffaloo on the New York & Buffalo line, Erie 
transportation Company. Name of boat C M Reed, capt Lines. We are carried for $2.50 each 
allowed 100 lbs. baggage each person & pay 45 cts per hundred for all extra bag-gag. Had good 
boat & comidations. Just as we got ready to put out who should come on board to go to Nauvoo 
But A Mr Roberts who a short time since came near upseating the whole church in New York by 
giving way to the power of the Devel and whole Church in to the same spirit which broat great 
reproach & injury upon the Saints in that city. I was sorry to see him & did not wish his company 
But I feel dispose to get along the wisest way I can in all such cases. We left albany at about 8 
oclock & arived in Schenectady in the morning. 

12 Sunday We tarried in Schenectady untill 9 o-clock. Received an addition of several passengers 
& proceded on. We passed Rome during the night. In the evening we sung a few Hymns & as 
soon as we closed Mr Roberts broke out in a tremendious noise which he called tongues. I 
reproved him before the whole company for his folly & impoliteness. His conversation had been 
such that the passengers would fonn an idea that he was in part a representative of the Latter Day 
Saints. I wished to change that Idea in the minds of the company for it was fals. He was not a 
member of the Church. 


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13th I spent the day in reading the 1st vol of INCIDENTS OF TRAVELS IN Central America 
Chiapas AND Yucatan BY JOHN L STEPHEN'S Author of "Incidents of travels in Egypt, 

Arabia PetrAEa and the Holy Land Illustrated by numerous engravings in two vol. I felt truly 
interested in this work for it brought to light a flood of testimony in proof of the book of monnon 
in the discovery & survey of the city Copan in Central America A correct drawing of the 
monuments, pyramids, portraits, & Hieroglyphics as executed by Mr Catherw’ood is now 
presented before the publick & is truly a wonder to the world. Their whole travels were truly 
interesting. 

14th Our babe was quite unwell with the bowel complaint. I continued reading Stephens travels 
& felt hily interested in them. 

15th } I wrote a letter to Br Azmon & Thompson W. 

161 perused the 2d Vol of Stephens travels In Central America Chiapas of Yucatan & the ruins 
of Palenque & Copan. It is truly one of the most interesting histories I have ever read. 

17th We arived in Rochester this morning & spent several hours there. Phebe & sister Nelson 
visited the Rochester falls. * 

18th We got into Lockport in the morning. I dreamed of seeing many snakes last night. Enemies 
are at hand from some quarter. I left Lockport in the morning at 1 1 oclock in Company with Mrs 
Woodruff & Br & Sister Moore. Took the rail cars & rode to the far famed Niagiary falls. It was 
truly a splended & magnificent sight. We went over goat Islands. Desended 100 steps. Went 
under the falls. We had a good view of them. 

We went on to the monument. We here had a view of the Ship Detroit that fought in the battle of 
Lake Erie on the 10th Sept 1815 & was set afloat with all her sails set in order to send her over 
the falls and dash her to peices. This was done by the Americans on the 15th Sept 1841 three 
days before we were there but she lodged on the rapids & did not go over the falls. Her sails 
mast, riging, & bulwarks were all gone. Nothing but her hull left when we saw her. 

After spending 2 hours at the falls, we took the rail road to Buffaloo, & spent the night. The Boat 
containing our freight & [chid?] & the rest of the company did not get in untill in the morning. 
Distance from Albany to Buffalo is 365 miles. 

Expenses for myself & family as follows: 


fare 2.50 each 5.00 

533 lbs. freight 1.50 

for provisions 2.12 

passage on rail road from Lockport 

to Buffalo via the falls 4.50 

Sundries 5.31 


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total 18.43 cts 

Sept 19th Sunday We unloaded our freight from the canal Boat onto the steam Boat Chesepeak 
bound for Chicago. We paid our fare & took tickets. I paid for myself & wife. We took steerage 
passage which was $20.00 $10 dollars each. Cabin was $20. We had a good state room for our 
families. 

20th We spent the day in Buffalo. We made preperations to cross the Lakes to Chicago. 

21st We left Buffalo at 1 1 oclock & arived at cleavland in the morning. 

22d Elder Henry Moore & wife stoped at cleav-land to spend a little season in kirtland. We spent 

about 2 hours in cleavland & continued our journey. <There are many [ ].> * Had a stonn in 

the night & cast anchor & spent the night in Detroit river. 

23d Spent 2 hours in Detroit. I went through various parts of the town it being the first time I 
ever was in the State of Mishigan. It cleared off this morning & we had the sun again. 

24th We passed through Lake St Clair & St Clair River & Lake Huron to Mackinaw Straits. We 
tarried here an hour. Saw many Indians who ketch many salmon trout in these straits which is the 
best place for trout in America. We bought a number of them that would weigh 6 or 8 lbs. corned 
for 6 cts. each. We had a rough night in lake Michigan. (<I caught [bad?] [—]•>) 

25 A vary rough morning. All sea sick. We stoped at Manitou Island. Cooked dinner on land & 
lay by the wharf untill sun set 4 oclok & started on the journey untill 12 oclock at night when a 
(tre-mendious storm & wind arose) which made the lake as rough as it could be by the force of 
wind & such a seenery as quickly followed I never before witnessed in all my travels either by 
sea or land on water or earth. The captain of the Chesepeak, with other officers, hands & 
passengers mostly expected to go to the bottom to have Judged from outward appearances. I 
should think here was twenty Chances of being lost to one of being saved. Yet I did not once 
expect during the whole seenery to be lost for I expected & felt that the Lord would Save us from 
a watery grave by some means. 

We were about 40 miles from land at about 12 o-clock at night when I was awoke from a Sound 
sweet sleep in my birth by the cry of some one saying we shall all be lost. The first thought that 
entered my mind was I make No calculations on being lost. I however leaped out of my birth 
onto my feet & went on to the upper deck. I immediately saw we were in eminant danger of 
being wrecked. The wind blew almost a Huricane & the waves were running over her bow in a 
dreadful manner. The boat was rather heavy loaded. 

Their was about 300 passengers on board with a large quantity of luggage & Jack Asses. Some 
geese & piggs were standing on the bow of the boat. Next to them was 40 cords of wood piled 
up. This with other loading kept the bow down in such a manner that it was judged their was 50 
tons of water on her bow deck at a time. At one time the bow run under water & some thought 


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she would never right. 

One wave that broke over set the Asses afloat broke the petetion between them & the steerage 
cabin & washed two of the Asses down. Threw [them] into the births among men woman & 
Children. It killed one of the Asses in the fall. The Asses & water together drove all the steerage 
passengers out of their Cabin on deck. 

About this time while the boat was labouring hard against wind & water she broke one of her 
wheel chains. I then herd the cry all is lost. But about 30 of us passengers caught hold of the two 
detatched ends of the chain & held them together untill they were mended with ropes. 

The bote lay partly upon her side. It tore up the floor & broke down the births in the steerage 
state rooms oposite of us & we expected evry moment ours would share the same fate. In one 
instance the waves broke over the upper deck. It took four men to manage the wheel. They tried 
to turn the boat three times but could not untill day light when it was accomplished & returned to 
the manitau Island at about 3 o-clock being about 24 hours in the gale. 

They again took on 40 cords of wood as they had flung 20 cords overboard in the storm to lighten 
the bow of the boat. Orders were given to that effect. 

We remained at the Manitau Island untill next morning. I felt thankful to God to once more get 
my foot on land. I felt that the Lord herd our prayrs & deliverd us. Their was praying, crying, 
singing & swaring at the same time in the mids of the storm. It was a trying time to all. 

26th Sunday morning Turned back for the Island. Reached [it] at 3 o-clock & remained untill 
morning. Was thankful to once more set our feet upon land. 

27th Monday Left manitau Island at 7 oclock to try again to Go to Chicago. The wind soon arose 
& we had a rough sea. We stoped at Millwaukie & left about 75 passengers & much baggage 
upon a small sloop toating upon the waves in a dredful manner. No boat had been to them for 
three days ie the hand on the boat. Whether the passengers ever got to shore I know not. 

28th We passed by Rhacene & arived in Chicago at 1 oclock & truly rejoiced to get on shore. We 
put up for the night at the Illinios exchange By J. Brown. Recommend friends there. Their was 
50 teems in with wheat. We saw two families from England. Got two teams to carry them to 
Stephenson on the Miss. River. The whole distance we came from Buffalo to Chicago is 1,047 
miles. 

29th I hired Mr J. B Collins of Princes Grove Illinois to carry me & sister Nelson & my family & 
800 lbs of baggage to Nauvoo for $21.00 or $2 dollars per cwt. Mr Sidney Roberts engaged a 
man to carry him at the same rate. We loaded our baggage & left Chicago at 10 o-clock. Had a 
vary bad road first 12 miles. Rode 27 miles & spent the night at Mr Gates [ ] Inn. 27 m. 

30th We rode 33 miles. Passed through Napers-ville cain county & Kendle co. & spent the night 
at the Inn of P. F. Hummel De Kalb county. 33 m. 


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October 


Oct 1st We crossed the sammonook river Indian creek. Passed by Paupau grove a 12 mile prairie 
in Ogle County. Spent the night at Roth's Inn /Greenfield/. Distance of the day 38 mile. From 
Chicago we passed the Desplain River Brush Hill, east branch of the Dupage, west branch of the 
Dupage, Fox River, Blackbury creek Little Rock creek, Big Rock creek, Sammonock River & 

Big Indian creek. 

Oct 2d Passed through Dover, Princeton County seat of Beureau Co. Crossed Beureau Creek, 
Indian town & spent the night at Mr John A. Griswold Inn Boyds grove. 33 m. 

3d Sunday Rode to camping grove. Crossed two 12 miles prairie & arived at Mr Collins home at 
2 o-clock. His wife & family appeared glad to see him. By request I preached in the evening at 
the house of Elder Phineas Brunson. The people gave good attention. I spent the night with Br 
Brunson & my family with Mr Collins. 25 m. 

4th We parted with Mr Collins & family & continued our journey with his team attended by Br 
Amos Brunson. Rode from princes grove & princeville. Crossed spoon river & Spent the night at 
Knoxville county seat of knox co. at the house of Mr Amos Stodard. His wife & Mother were 
Saints. <Distance> 30 mils. We stoped & picked up 1/2 bushel of crab Apples. Their was many 
bushels in the orchard. 

5th We passed through Colebrook & called at Monmouth. Bathed our horses & had an interview 
with Mr Albert Scamman from monmouth county seat of warren. We rode crossed the south fork 
of Henderson to Ellisson creek & spent the night with Mr Nathaniel Master. <Distance of the 
day> 38 miles. 

6th We rode to Hoppers Mills. I there had an interview with Br Haws who informed me that the 
conference in Nauvoo was passed So we had missed the privilege of attending it. I felt sorry that 
we could not have got throug in time. We rode across a prairie & came to Nauvoo. 

It gave me peculiar feelings to once more enter this city after being Absent more than two years. 
When I left their was not more than a dozen houses in the town but now their was several 
hundred. We passed by the temple as we passed along & had a view of it. 

Soon called at the house of Elder Young & spent the night with him. He was sick. Elder Kimball 
was with him & also Elder Richards. We lade hands on him & he soon recoverd. I saw many of 
my old friends & acquaintance & I was informed that many of our old acquaintance & friends are 
dead & quite a number among the english emigrants Elder Kington’s mother & wife, Elder 
Glover & many others. Distance of the day 35 m. 

7th I met with many friends during the day. I also sat in counsel with the Twelve & was happy to 
once more meet with the quorum. I moved my things to Elder Kimball house & spent the night. 
My wife & Child was both sick. I called upon Elders Kington & Brewet & Pitt & Stephen Luce 


Page85 




& many others & spent the night at Elder Kimball's. 

[] I received a letter from J Turpin. I paid $10 to E Robinson for the times & seasons. 

8th I am quite undecided which way to turn or whare to settle myself. The temporal business of 
the Church is laid upon the hands of the Twelve. It has been thought best by some of our quorum 
for me to go to Warsaw with Elder Richards. 

Sister Kimball deliverd to us all the things which I had sent to Phebe from England by Elder 
Turley which were left in her hands. I Paid R Cahoon $5 dollars for Dwight Webster for the 
house of the Lord. 

On looking over all my accounts & expenses from New York to Nauvoo & I found that all the 
expenses Aug in New York to the 8th oct. in Nauvoo amounted in all to $238.21 cts. 

I met in conference with the Twelve & among other business they voted that I should locate 
myself in Nauvoo. I looked over my accounts with Sister Nelson & she is indetted to me $1 
dollar. 

Oct 9th I met in Council with the Twelve at President Yourigs. We had an interesting time & 
conversed upon a variety of subjects. 

Sunday 10th I met with the Twelve for the purpose of a council but we spent most of the day in 
visiting the sick. 

1 1th ^ I received a letter from Jesse Turpin wishing to repeal his case to the Twelve for a 
rehearing as he had been Cut of from the Church. I moved my trunks & goods to a house under 
the bluff at the house of Brother Tracy which I purchased of him for $85. Phebe has gone over 
the river with Br Clark to see to her things in Iowa. 

12th I Cut two loads of wood & drew to the door. It being the first work I had done for a long 
time with my hands I felt sore. 

13 th I went 6 miles out on a prairie & cut a load of hay with Br Albert Smith & drew it home for 
my cows. 12 miles. 

14th Spent the day mowing & drawing hay. 12. 

15th I cut & drew another load of hay making 3 loads of hay about 2 1/2 tons which I have cut & 
drew home in three days. It makes me quite sore to mow. 

16th I went over the river to see my family & while on the road I met with a number of my old 
friends & acquaintances. Among the number was Elders Nobles & Wm. Clayton. Br Clayton & 
family were in a distressed situation with Sickness. I lade hands upon him. I went to Father 
Clarks found my family & spent the night. Willford was some better than he has been but is still 
feeble. Distance 8 miles. 


Page86 




17th Sunday I was feeble in body yet I preached to a large congregation at Br John Lovoms. 
Returned & spent the night at Br Clarks. 

1 8th A cold Stormy day. I went with Phebe to collect her houshold furniture which she left in 
Ioway when she went to Maine. We first went to Zarahemla. Saw many old friends. Among them 
was George A. Smith, John Smith, Samuel Smith, father Hawley, & many others Br Abbot &c. I 
returned & spent the night at father Clarks. Was quite unwell through the night with the bowel 
complaint. 12 m. 

19th We left Br Clarks to return to Nauvoo with a load of goods. We left our cows for a season 
as they did not give milk. We had some difficulty in crossing the ferry in consequence of the 
wind. It took 3 skiff loads to carry us & our things over. I then took them in a waggon & carried 
them to our house. I was sick But I felt to rejoice to spend a night with my family under a roof of 
my own it being the first time that I have ever injoyed such a privilege since we were married. * 

20th I lent B. Young $2.50. He returned me 75 cts. 

21 st B. Young let me have 6 bushels of lime. 

22d I Bought 1,500 Brick of Br Coltrin. The Brick & bringing it to our door was $7.84 which I 
paid in a pair of pantaloons & shaws. 

23 Br Hodson put in a window for me & let me have 25 feet of walnut lumber. 

24th Sunday I have had a visit from father Luce& his family. He got in last night [with] Sister 
Foxal who by faith came to Nauvoo from England. 

25 I got a load of corn potatoes & c from over the river. Had to bring it over in two skiffs. 

26th Got my brick & mortor on the ground for a brick chimney & oven but got disappointed in a 
mason to do the work to day. I walked 15 miles after masons. Was vary feeble in body with the 
bowel complaint & piles. 15. 

27th Mr Treat & Coulton came to put up my chimney. I was feeble in body but laboured hard. 

28 Was quite 111 but laboured hard in tending mason. 

29th Finished my chimney & paid $4 for building it. It was near midnight before I got cleared 
away so as to lie down. We had a heavy thunder stonn with hail. The Twelve had a council. I was 
not preasent. Was much out of health. 

30 Their was two companies of the Nauvoo Legion called out to remove a grog shop out of the 
way. Elders Brewett & Price assisted me make some doors. I am still unwell. Feel feeble. The 
city council met in the evening [] during their business they Appointed me a member of the City 
Council of the city of Nauvoo. I was notifyed of my appointment in the morning. 


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3 1st Sunday I met with the Presidency & Twelve at Hiram Smith office & spent most of the day 
in Council. Joseph severely reproved Benjamin Winchester for getting out of his place & doing 
wrong after which Joseph taught us principle for several hours which was interesting. He spoke 
upon the gathering of the Nations, building of the kingdom of God, the traditions & wickedness 
of this generations &c. I was sick. Had hands laid upon me. Returned home & went to rest. 

November 

NOV 1st I was sick & confined to my bed through the day. The City council met for business. I 
was not able to attend. 

2d I was still sick & confined to the house. Br Hodson assisted me in some temporal business. 

3d I am some better able to do some business. 

4th I am gaining in strength. It is quite cold. 

5th } I wrote a letter to Dr Bemhisel & also one to Father & Mother Carter. 

6th * I attended the city counsel for the first time & was sworn into my office as counsellor. I 
found that those meetings will be a profitable school unto me in giving me a knowledge of 
parliamentary rules law &c. 

7th Sunday I first called upon Br Joseph with some of the Twelve. From thence to B. Young. 
From thence to the meeting ground near the Temple whare I found many hundreds of Saints. 
Elder Wm. Clark preached about 2 hours when Br Joseph arose & reproved him as pharisaical & 
hypocritical & not edifying the people. 

Br Joseph then deliverd unto us an edifying address showing us what temperance faith, virtue, 
charity & truth was. He also said if we did not accuse one another God would not accuse us & if 
we had no accuser we should enter heaven. He would take us there as his backload. If we would 
not accuse him he would not accuse us & if we would throw a cloak of charity over his sins he 
would over ours. For charity coverd a multitude of Sins & what many people called sin was not 
sin & he did many things to break down superstition & he would break it down. He spoke of the 
curse of Ham for laughing at Noah while in his wine but doing no harm. 

After this meeting closed I met with the Twelve & High Priest quorum: the word of wisdom was 
brought up. B Young says shall I Break the word of wisdom if I go home & drink a cup of tea? 
No wisdom is justified of her Children. The subject was discused in an interesting manner. All 
concluded that it was wisdom to deal with all such matters according to the wisdom which God 
gave. That a forced abstai-nance was not making us free but we should be under bondage with a 
yoak upon our necks. I walked out & spent the night at Br Allexanders. 

8th A rainy day. I worked upon my house. 


Page88 




9th I went to Peter Shirts lime kill. 

10th I drew about 800 lath for my house. 

1 1th I spent the day in lathing my house. 

12th I drew home a load of lime & boards. 

13th I spent the day in lathing & night in the city council. 

14th Sunday I met in counsel with the Twelve. Visited the sick. Spent the evening at Malitire 
Luce from fox Islands. Had an interview with capt Justus Ames & Elders Benbow Oakey & J 
Hill dined at my house. I am now in the midst of hundreds that I have Baptized throughout 
America, the Islands of the Sea England &c that have been gatherd together to Nauvoo through 
the influence of the gospel. Joseph preached to a large congregation at the Temple. 

15th I laid a floor in my bedroom. 

161 run 12 bushels of lime for plastering & rode in company with J. H. Hale 2 1/2 miles on the 
prairie to Br Zerah Pulsiphers. I bought four acres of land of him in section 32 for * $44 dollars. I 
paid him $20 dollars in silver & am to pay him the other $24 dollars in a year. The ground is 
ploughed. I met in the evening with the company owning the land. They appointed me to sell 
some of the land to raise the money to pay Brother Daniel S. Miles Part on the land. 

17th I sold 5 acres of Daniel S. Miles land in section 32 for $10 dollars per acre to Sister Mary 
Pitt for which she paid me $50 dollars in gold which money I deliverd to Zerah Pulsipher as one 
of the committee of the company. He gave his recept for the Same. 

18th I spent the day in lathing. 

19th I assisted Daniel S Miles in Selling 16 acres of land in Section 32 for $10 dollars per acre. I 
also bought of Daniel S Miles 5 acres of land in Section 32 at $10 dollars per acre. Am to give 
my notes when I get a bond for a deed. 

20th I spent the day making lime morter &c. I attended the city council at night. 

21 st Sunday I met in Council with the Twelve at Elder B. Youngs. Then attended the general 
Assembly near the Temple. Heard a discours by Elder Taylor followed by President Hyram 
Smith. I then met the Twelve at B. Youngs untill 4 o-clock at which time we repaired to the 
Baptismal Font in the Temple for the purpose of Baptizing for the dead, for the remision of Sins 
& for healing. It was truly an interesting seene. It was the first FONT erected for this glorious 
purpose in this last dispensation. It was dedicated By President Joseph Smith & The Twelve for 
Baptizing for the Dead &c & this was the first time the font had been prepared for the reception 
of candidates. 

On the sabbath a large Congregation assembled. Elders B. Young H C Kimball & J Taylor went 


Page89 




forward & Baptized about 40 persons. Elders W Richards, G. A. Smith & myself assisted in 
confirming them. 

I then Spent the evening with the Twelve at Br Kimball. 

Nov 22d I got my Bedroom plastered by J. Hodson. 

23d I spent the day to work at home. 

24th * I Commenced taking charge of the provision store for the committee of the Nauvoo 
House. I also cut & drew two loads of wood to my door. 

25th I spent a part of the day at the store. We have a severe snow stonn. About 200 Saints have 
just landed at warsaw from England. It is bad for them in this snow storm. 

26th A Cold morning. I spent the day at home. I mailed a letter to father Carters family. 

27 [ ] 

28th Sunday I spent the day at B. Young in company with Joseph & the Twelve in conversing 
upon a variety of Subjects. It was an interesting day. Elder Joseph Fielding was present. He had 
been in England four years. We also saw a number of english Brethren. 

Joseph Said the Book of Mormon was the most correct of any Book on Earth & the key stone of 
our religion & a man would get nearer to God by abiding by its precepts than any other Book. 

29th I had an interview with Elder Morgan from Garway wales. Many are emigrating from 
foreign Nations. 

29th It is still cold weather. I am now spending my time in the provision Store. 

30th I spent some time with Joseph & the Twelve. Joseph says Sister Hyde must live with Br E. 
Robinson & if they receive them kindly and patiently it shall prove a great blessing unto them. 

December 

Dec 1st A plesent day. I spent a part of the day in writing. } I wrote a letter to L. R. Foster 13 
Oliver st NY & requested him to Send me some money. 

After retiring to rest at night I was Called upon by Brother Meeks to go with him to lay hands 
upon his wife who was possessed with a devil. I went with him to his house & found his wife 
foaming in great agony. I lade hands upon her & rebuked the devil & he came out of her & she 
soon fell asleep & I returned home & If I had judged from outward appearances I should have 
thought the devil followed me home & entered into our Cat for she made the most awful noise 
through the night I ever herd. I also had a disagreeable dream <[between?] Joseph and myself> 
which I considerd to be from the devil. I met in council with the Twelve in evening. 


Page90 




2d I drew home from D. Chase sawpit 232 feet of flooring with Br Mills team. 

3d A rainy day. I laid my chamber floor & spent A part of the day at the meet store. 

4th Spent a part of the day at the store. Did not attend the city Council but was called away to 
visit the sick. Most of the quorum of the Twelve went to Ramus to hold a conference with that 
stake. 

5 th Sunday I walked with Mrs Woodruff & sister Kimball to Br Rushtons & spent a part of the 
day with a number of the Pottery Saints & In the evening we walked to Br Josephs & spent 
several hours at his house on a visit & had a plesent time with him & sister Emma. 

Br Joseph had commenced this day to proof read the Book of mormon that it might be 
sterotyped. He read 60 pages. He rehearsed over the Missouri transactions. Spoke of the death of 
David W. Patten & the REQEST which he made of him in his last dying moments. JOSEPH will 
grant it if God will. 

6th } I wrote a letter to Father & Mother Woodruff Br & Sister Webster. Spent most of my time 
in the store. 

Dec 7th I spent most of my time in the store but in the evening I attended meeting & herd a 
discourse deliverd by Lyman Wight who declaired some most Stirling truths concerning the 
building of the Temple & the Nauvoo House. If the Saints did not do it they would be rejected as 
a Church with their dead Saith the Lord. We should again be driven &c. He spoke in truth & the 
spirit of God. 

8th I spent most of the day in the store & to work on my house. 

9th 10 1 1th Spent in the store & work on my house. I spend about two hours in the store at noon 

6 two at night. 

12th Sunday I met in council with the Twelve in the morning. Joseph preached in the forepart of 
the day at Br Sniders & had an interesting meeting. I again met with the Twelve in the evening at 
Br Kimball's. Elder B Young informed me that the Lot I was on was BLOCK 106 NO 1st on 
Hotchkiss & Durfee streat. 

13th I had an interview with Br Ebenezar Robi-son. He wished to hire me for the season to assist 
him in writing & in other business. I spent my time as usual in the store. 

14th I had an attact from Mr Davis. Said I was trespassing on him for cutting some wood which I 
had bought of others. 

15 & 16th Sawed down the comers of my house & attended as usual to my business in the store. 

17th Br Fulmer gave me the privileg of selling several lots of land with the intention of giving 
me some Benefit. He promises me a deed of a building spot near his house. 


Page9 1 




18th I spent several hours with Philo Dibble in viewing his lot of land. He promises to give me a 
deed of one acre of land & gives me the privilege of Selling the whole. 

Dec 19th Sunday I met with the Twelve in the morning & held a council, & in the evening I met 
at Joseph’s the Seer & herd a discours deliverd by Elder Kimball who opened by prayer read a 
chapter in the Book [of] mormon & spake as he was led by the Spirit of God. He spake of the 
parable of Jeremiah of the clay in the hands of the potter. That when it marrd in the hands of the 
potter it was laid aside to go into the next batch & was a vessel of dishonour. But all clay that 
formed well in the hands of the potter & was pliable was a vessel of honour & thus it was with 
the human family & ever will be. All that are pliable in the hands of God & are obedient to the 
command of God are vessels of honour & God will receive them. Joseph the Seer Said the above 
was a true explaination of the parable. 

(After Sidney Roberts had occupied the meeting a season) Joseph the Seer arose & read a 
Chapter in the New Testiment containing the parable of the vine & its branches & explained it 
much to our edification & said "if we kept the commandments of God we should bring forth fruit 
& be the friends of God & know what our Lord did. 

"Some say Joseph is a fallen Prophet because he does not bring forth more of the word of the 
Lord." "Why does he not do it?" Are we able to receive it? No (says he) not one in this room. He 
then chas-tized us for our wickedness & unbelief knowing that whom the Lord loveth he 
Chasteneth & Scourgeth evry son & daughter whom He receiveth & if we do not receive 
chastizements then are we Bastards & not Sons. 

On Revelation He said "A man would Command his Son to dig potatoes, saddle his horse but 
before he had done either tell him to do sumthing els. This is a considerd right. "But as soon as 
the Lord gives a commandment & revokes that decree & commands sumthing els then the 
prophet is considerd fallen &c." Because we will not receive chastizment at the hand of the 
Prophet & Apostles the Lord chastizeth us with sickeness & death. 

Let not any man Publish his own righteousness for others can do that for him." Sooner let him 
confess his sins & then he will be forgiven & he will bring forth more fruit. When A man is 
chas-tized he gets angry & will not endure it. 

The reason we do not have the Secrets of the Lord revealed unto us is because we do not keep 
them but reveal them. We do not keep our own secrets but reveal our difficulties to the world 
even to our enemies. Then how would we keep the secrets of the Lord? Joseph Says I can keep a 
secret till dooms day. 

He spoke of love. What greater love hath any man than that he lay down his life for his friend? 
Then why not fight for our friend untill we die? & many other things of interest was spoken. 

Elder B Young arose & said one thing lay with wait on his mind ie. that we should be prepared to 
keep each commandment as it came from the Lord by the mouth of the prophet & as the Lord had 


Page92 




commanded us to build a Temple we should do it spedily. 

20th 21 22, 23d & 24th Was exceding cold. I spent the week as usual at the store & to work at 
my house &c. 

25th Christmas Day was an interesting day indeed to the Twelve. We were invited to a Christmas 
supper at Mr Hiram Kimball's. It was excellent Slaying & I got a horse & slay & carried the 
wives of the Twelve to Mr Kimballs & home again after our meeting broke up. Our company 
consisted of B Young H. C. Kimball O. Pratt W. Richards J. Taylor & W. Woodruff All with our 
wives except W. Richards who waited upon Sister Hyde. We had an excellent feast & before we 
left Mr Kimball made each one of the Twelve a present of a lot of land & mad out a bond for a 
deed of the whole quorum. Each lot worth $50 making $600 dollars in all. My Lot was No 4 
Block 12 in Kimball Second Addition to Nauvoo A warrent tee deed to be given on or befor the 
5 th day of June AD 1842. 

A year ago this Christmas I was in London Eng & took dinner with Br & sister Morgan in 
company with Br Kimball but we are now again with our families. 

Dec 26th Sunday I visited the sick in the morning & spent the fore part of the day in writing. I 
received [] A letter last evening from Br Azmon Woodruff of South Richland under Date Nov 
15th 1841. Joseph the Seer Called upon me & others of the Twelve to attend meeting at his 
house. We did so in the evening & herd many good principles presented by presidents Joseph & 
Hyram Smith such as the following: Speak not in tongues to your own nation but to those of 
annother tongue. Then if one of another tongue interpets it will be a sign to the unbeliever, & 
then it would condemn those who heard if they rejected it for the Lord does not work in vain. 
Joseph spoke upon the 14 ch. 1 cor. Prophesies will cease &c ie. A person will cease or stop 
prophesying & not continue all the while &c untill we come to perfection or a fulness. Then part 
work will be done away. 

27th * The Twelve or a part of them spent the day with Joseph the Seer & he unfolded unto them 
many glorious things of the kingdom of God the privileges & blessings of the priesthood &c. I 
had the privilege of seeing for the first time in my day the URIM & THUMMIM. 

28th 29 30th & 3 1st I spent the week as usual ingaged in my daily labour. On friday the 3 1st I 
looked over my Journals. Recorded on the following Page an account of my travels & labours in 
the ministry During 1841. 


A synopsis of the travels & labours of W. Woodruff In AD 1841 


Travelled in ENGLAND, WALES & AMERICA 
And visited the following towns & Cities 


Page93 




TOWNES & Cities 


populations 

Shires & States 

* London 




the Metropolis 


1,600,000 

Middlesex Co 

Bristol 


200,000 


Liverpool 


280,000 

Lancashire 

Preston 


60,000 

Ditto 

Manchester 


350,000 

Ditto 

Staffordshire potteries 

70,000 

Staffordshire 

Wolverhampton 


30,000 

Ditto 

Binningham 


300,000 

Warwickshire 

Worcester 


45,000 

Worcestershire 

Hereford 


50,000 

Herefordshire 

Ledbury 


8,000 

Ditto 

Marlvem Hills 


3,000 

Ditto 

Gloucester 


40,000 

Gloucestershire 

Cheltenham 


40,000 

Ditto 

Oxford 


36,000 

Oxfordshire 

Woolwich 


50,000 


Monmouth 


8,000 

Monmouthsire wales 

New York 


350,000 

N.Y. 

Portland 


16,000 

Maine 

Boston 


100,000 

M.S. 

Hartford & Newhaven 

12,000 

Ct 

* Albany 


50,000 

NY 

Buffaloo 


20,000 

DO 

Detroit 


10,000 

Mich 

Mackinau 


1,500 

Wisconsin 

Chicago 


10,000 

Illinois 

* Nauvoo 


10,000 

Illinois 

Also A vast number of smaller towns lying Between the above named places. 

Travelled 

7,062 Miles 


Held 

83 Meetings 


Attended 

10 Conferences 


Baptized 

2 1 persons 


Assisted at the 




Baptizing of 

18 others 



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Confirmed 

46 

Ordained 

1 1 Elders 

DO 

13 Priest 

DO 

10 Teachers 

DO 

3 Deacon 

And 

1 patriarch 

Blessed 

5 children 

Healed 

22 sick 

Married 

4 persons 

Wrote 

100 Letters 

& Received 

67 Letters 

I reported and recorded in this Journal three sermons of Joseph the Seer. 


3 Recorded 


W. Woodruffs Daily Journal 
and History in 1 842 

January 

JAN 1ST, 1842 


I spent this NEW YEARS DAY in company with the quorum of the Twelve & with our wives in 
the city of Nauvoo at Br S. Stodard’s. It was an interesting day unto us to once more assemble to 
a feast with our quorum & our families in a city of the Saints in the midst of peace & love. We 
more highly prized this privilege as we are called to be seperate so much while in the vineyard of 
the Lord. We have been spared to commence annother new Year while many of our near & dear 
friends are dead [and] sleep in the grave. Whare the next new Year will find us the Lord ownly 
knoweth. I pray my Heavenly father in the name of Jesus Christ to keep us from evry vain 
Speculation & evil & give us wisdom to govern us in all our temporal affairs as well as spiritual, 
that we may not run into any sins, evils or snares. 

It now seems to be my privilege & lot to spend a season at home & provide for my family it 
being the first time I have had the privilege since I have been in the Church as my lot has been 
cast in the vineyard most of the time for the last eight years. As we have now a Commandment 
from the Lord resting upon us to Build the temple of the Lord & the Nauvoo house it is probable 
that our quorum will spend most of the time in Nauvoo untill the Temple is built & I shall 
endeavour to record those things spiritual & temporal which I consider the most beneficial to 
mankind. 

I spent the evening in the city Council untill near midnight then parted with each other & 
returned to our homes. 


Page95 




2d Sunday I attended meeting at the house of Joseph the Seer. President Hyrum Smith preached. 

I followed him with an exhortation. I also preached in the evening at his house. 

Jan 3d I spent the day drawing wood for Albert Smith from the Island across the Missisippi river 
on the Ice. 

4th I drew wood from the Island for myself. One man while crossing the river broke through the 
Ice & lost his whole esstablishment under the Ice ie. horses harness & slay. 

5th I spent the day drawing wood for Br Smith. 

6th I crossed the Miss River in Company with Elders Hyrum Smith, H. C. Kimball, & John 
Taylor. It was thawing & much water on the Ice. We got our feet much wet but we went to 
Zerehemla. Held a CONFERENCE. Discontinued the stake. Appointed A presiding Elder over 
the branch. Saluted no man by the way did not eat or drink & returned not by the way we went. 
Walked in all 10 miles. 

7th Spent the day about home & at the store house. 

8th I spent the day in the Nauvoo store & at home. I visited Josephs store & found it thronged. 

9th Sunday I preached in the forepart of the day at Br Freemans to a full Congregation & had a 
good time. I called upon several friends in the afternoon & spent the evening at home in writing. 

10th I Sold Br John Horlick the South half of Lot No 4 Block 12 in Kimball Second addition to 
Nauvoo for $50 dollars. I spent the evening at Br John Taylors in company with Elders Young 
Kimball, Taylor, Clayton, Fielding & others with our wives. Had an interesting time. I Bought 
two lots of Hyrum Kimball for two hundred & fifty dollars. I paid him $50 dollars down in cloth 
& a watch & the other is in two annual payments. They were Lots No [ ] in Block [ ]. 

1 1th I walked across the Missisippi river on the Ice to Father Clarks & spent the night. 12 mile. I 
dreamed Br Azmon was in prison with his head off. 

12th I led my cow home from Br Clarks to Nauvoo. 12 m. 

13th I took my note up of $20 dollars which I gave to Br M Luce. I felt quite unwell with a cold. 

14th I drew home a load of plank 21 1 feet 1 1/2 inch & 90 feet inch Boards. * Our Cow had a 
nice heafer Calf this day. 

15th The two Brother Freeroans gave me a days work. Laid me a stable floor. Killed me two pigs 
rather than to build a pen for them & assisted in other work. 

16th Sunday I preached at Br Freeman to an attentive congregation & in the evening I married 
Thomas Jones & Mary Mayle. 


Page96 




17th I spent the day butchering 20 hoggs for the Nauvoo house. I attended council at Joseph 
Office with the Twelve. 

18th I had a hard days work in the Nauvoo house. 

19th I spent the day in the Nauvoo house. 

20th I attended a general special Conference of the Church called together in Nauvoo. Met at the 
house of Br Edwards to take into consideration the conduct of Dr Isacc Galland who is wronging 
the Church out of much property. 

2 1st I spent the day posting Book at the Nauvoo house. 

22 I spent the day labouring at home. 

23d Sunday I preached at Joseph's the Seers from the Book of mormon & was much blessed in 
my mind. 

24th I spent the day visiting the sick. 

25 I spent the day in the Nauvoo store. 

26th I took a walk with Br Daniel Bullard through various parts of Nauvoo. * I bought a house & 
a 1/4 acre of land of Br Parsons & am to pay him $100 dollars for it 20 in April. I am to let Br 
Bullard have the rent of the lot through the season as he wishes to work on the Temple. 

27th I spent the day with Br Kimball. 

28 I spent the day in the store. 

29 □ I received a letter from Mother Woodruff. Spoke of the 111 health of sister Eunice. I spent the 
evening at Joseph Store. * ($) * } I wrote a letter to Br Dwight Webster & mother Woodruff. 

30 Sunday I rode to Br John Benbow's on the prairie 6 miles from Nauvoo & preached at his 
house & spent the night. This was the first time I had been to his house since my return to 
Nauvoo. I spent the time vary plesantly. While there his fann looked almost like the garden of 
Eden. I never had seen more work done in one year on a prairie farm than on his. He had 
surrounded it & crossed it with heavy ditches & planted thorn hedges. His dwelling, barns, sheds, 
garden yards, orchards, &c ware all beautifully aranged. It much resembled some of the farms of 
old England. It will be a plesant retreat for a summers ride from Nauvoo. The little 
Neigh-bourhood now consists of five families from England all well united excepting Wm. 
Benbow who has denyed the faith & is a family by himself. I spent the evening conversing with 
the Brethren. 6 miles. 

3 1st I paid $200 dollars to Br John Benbow for president Joseph Smith & endorsed it on his note. 
I then left the friends & rode to Br Pulsiphers. Dined at his house & returned to Nauvoo. 6 miles. 


Page97 




February 

Feb 1st I assisted in drawing up from the river two large Stones to the Nauvoo house for the 
threshholds of doors. 

2d Elder Pitt assisted me in Painting myhouse. 

Feb 3d 1842 Thursday g A Revelation was given a few days Since for the Twelve to obtain the 
printing esstablishment of E Robinson & govern the printing of the Times & Seasons & all the 
church publications as they are directed by my Holy Spirit in the midst of their councils Saith the 
Lord. 

After consulting upon the subject the quorum appointed Elders J. Taylor & W Woodruff of the 
Twelve to Edit the Times & Seasons & take charge of the whole esstablishment under the 
direction of Joseph the Seer. Accordingly I left my station at the Nauvoo provision store & 
commenced this day to labour for the church in the printing esstablish-ment. 

Elder Taylor & myself spent the afternoon in taking an invoice of the printing esstablishment & 
met in council in the evening at Joseph store. 

4th I spent the day with Br Taylor in finishing the invoice of the printing esstablishment Books & 
Stationary & in the evening we again met at Josephs Store & E Robinson made out the deed to W 
Richards of his lot & house containing the printing esstablishment & all Appurtenances 
belonging thereto Amounting in all to $6,600 dollars. 

5th Saturday This is tithing day. I Assisted Elder W. Richards in taking in the tithing for the 
Temple. It was a busy day. We took in $1,000 dollars of property or more. I spent the evening 
with Joseph & Elder Richards at the printing office. 

6th Sunday I spent the day at home writing. Elders Young & Kimball have gone to Laharp to 
hold a two days meeting. 

Feb 7, 8, & 9 /1 0 & 1 1/ I spent in the printing Office & was busy in setting in order many things 
about the office. 

12th I attended the city Council. It was an interesting day. The subject of our rights was discused 
& among other things a Law passed regulating Hawkers pedlers Auctioneers &c. 

13th I preached on Sunday at Br Israel Barlows to a full house & had an interesting time. 

14 15, & 16Was spent at the printing Office labouring in the temporal Concerns thereof. 

17 A Special city Council was called & among the business of the day, A Law was passed 
regulating marriage. Joseph the seer made many interesting remarks concerning our priviliges. 
Council adjourned to next day evening. 


Page98 




18th City council met at early candle light according to adjournment. After some business on 
roads was performed Joseph the Seer took the floor & followed Gen Bennet Concerning law our 
rights &co His speach was truly interesting & powerfull. 

19th This was a busy day in each department of business it being tithing day for the temple. Their 
was much business done at the store property brought in &c. We sent about two bushels of the 
Times & Seasons to the post Office to send to our patrons. I received 3 papers from Mr Ezra 
Carter jr. which contained much intelligence of various kinds. 

It is truly interesting edifying & glorious to contemplate the great & mighty work which God has 
set his hand to esstablish in these last days by revealing the fullness of the everlasting gospel as 
recorded in the Book of mormon & esstablishing his church & kingdom as at the Beginning 
which is according to the order of heaven with Seers prophets Apostles, Elders Priests, Bishops, 
Teachers, Revelation, Administering of Angels gifts, graces, Knowledge, wisdom tongues 
healings &c &c. 

Truly the Lord has raised up Joseph the Seer of the seed of Abraham out of the loins of ancient 
Joseph, & is now clothing him with mighty power & wisdom & knowledge which is more clearly 
manifest & felt in the midst of his intimate friends than any other class of mankind. The Lord is 
Blessing Joseph with Power to reveal the mysteries of the kingdom of God; to translate through 
the urim & Thummim Ancient records & Hyeroglyphics as old as Abraham or Adam, which 
causes our hearts to burn within us while we behold their glorious truths opened unto us. 

Joseph the Seer has presented us some of the Book of Abraham which was written by his own 
hand but hid from the knowledge of man for the last four thousand years but has now come to 
light through the mercy of God. Joseph has had these records in his possession for several years 
but has never presented them before the world in the english language untill now. But he is now 
about to publish it to the world or parts of it by publishing it in the Times & Seasons, for Joseph 
the Seer is now the Editor of that paper & Elder Taylor assists him in writing while it has fallen 
to my lot to take charge of the Business part of the esstablishment. 

I have had the privilege this day of assisting in setting the TIPE for printing the first peace of the 
BOOK OF ABRAHAM that is to be presented to the inhabitants of the EARTH in the LAST DAYS. 

My Soul has been much edifyed of late from time to time in hearing Joseph the Seer convers 
about the mysteries of the Kingdom of God. Truly GOD is with him & is making him mighty in 
wisdom & knowledge & I am convinced for myself that none of the Prophets Seers or Revelators 
of the Earth have ever accomplished a greater work than will be accomplished in the Last days 
through the mercy of God By JOSEPH THE SEER. 

Feb 20 Sunday I spent the day at home reading & writing. 

21 22 23 24 25 & 26 Was spent in the printing office. Nothing remarkable transpired with us 
during the week excepting we prepared A plate for making a cut at the commencement of the 


Page99 




Book of Abraham which is to be published in the 9 no. of the 3 Vol of the Times & Seasons 
which will be interesting to many of the inhabitants of the earth. 

I have read the life of Win. Colbett during the past week & in many respects find [it] to be 
interesting. 

27th Sunday I spent the day at home writing. 28th Spent the day at the Printing Office. 

March 

March 1st 1842 My Birth Day I am 35 years of age this day as the spring enters, And thinking I 
could not Celebrate my Birth day more effectually than to meet my best friends I killed a Turkey 
made a feast & invited some of my friends to attend. Some came & some could not. The 
company consisted of Joseph the Seer & Lady Elders H. C. Kimball & Lady J. Taylor & Lady & 
Mother, Dr. W. Richards & John E. Page. After supper the evening was mostly spent in hearing 
Joseph the Seer convers about the blessings of the kingdom of God much to our edification. 

March 2d I spent the day as usual at the office. 

3d Was spent at printing office. 

March 4th 1842 Phebe A. Woodruff was Bom this morning 30 minutes past 10 oclock. Unto us a 
child is given unto us a daughter is bom. Mother & babe doing well. May the Lord be priased for 
all his mercies unto us. After leaving my family comfortable I spent a busy day at the Office 
making up the Mails or prepairing papers for it. 

5th I attended the City Council through the day & past some important Laws such as recording 
deeds & other instruments of writing in Nauvoo & bought a lot of land of Hyrum Kimball. 

Sunday I preached at Br Matthews House. 

7th I visited the Block of land north of the Temple which I bought of H. Kimball & spent part of 
the day in the printing Office. 

8th I spent the day getting wood out of the river cutting it & getting it home. I drew in cord & a 
half to my door & spent some time in the office. 

9 Spent the day at the printing Office & in the evening attended Court at Hyrum Smiths office 
whare Lysander M. Davis was found quilty of slandering the character of Joseph Smith & was 
bound over to keep the peace under $100 bond. After court was over Joseph Smith & the Twelve 
suped upon a rost Turkey with sister Hyde. 

March 101 spent the day at the printing office. 

* 1 1th The Nauvoo Legion met on parrade this day. I rode in the Legion in company with the 
quomm of the Twelve as assistant Chaplain. It was the first time I had seen the Legein on parrade 


Page 100 




& it caused peculiar feelings to rest upon me while gasing upon this Legion & contemplate the 
past present & to come. 

After the business of the day was closed, I attend the trial of Elder Gladden F. Bishop at 
President Joseph Smith House, & it was an interesting time. Gladden had set himself up as some 
great thing for 8 or 9 years & the church had been so much troubled with him by his foolish 
conduct that he had been cut off a number of times from the Church & restored, & he had now 
set himself up as a prophet & Revelator to the church & a number of his revelations were brought 
forward & red before the congregations & it was the greatest Bundle of Nonsens ever put 
together. It would have taken Gladden Bishop ten thousand Years to have accomplished the work 
which he said in his pretended revelations he should perform. He took the name of God in vain & 
his crime was so great in his Blaspheming God in his pretended revelations that Joseph the Seer 
said that nothing would excuse him in the sight of God & angels in commiting the unpardonable 
sin ownly because he was a fool & had not sens sufficient for the Holy Ghost to enlighten him. 
After his Revelations were read condemned & commited to the flames he was cut off from the 
Church & given over to the bufferings of Satan untill the day of the Lord Jesus. 

12 The Court Marshall of the Nauvoo Legion met at Gen Joseph Smith. I attended. The rank rool 
was made out so that each officer might know his place. I spent part of the day in the printing 
office. 

13th Sunday I spent the day at home with my family & wrote some in my Journal. 

14th Spent the day in printing Office. 

15th I 1 T * The Nauvoo Masonic Lodge was formed esstablished and organized this day. The 
possession was fonned at half past one o-clock at Joseph's store & marched in possession to the 
grove in front of the temple & organized the lodge & an address was deliverd by the Grand 
master of the Masonic Lodge of Illinois. Good order prevailed. It was judged their was about 
3,000 citizens assembled on the occasion. 

[] Received a letter from Br Wedster which brought infonnation from my fathers house. 

16 } I wrote a letter to L R Foster. Spent day in printing. 

17 } I wrote a letter to Dwight Webster. 

18th I spent the day in the printing office. 

19 Spent the day in the printing Office. We struck off about 500 No of the 10 No 3 vol of Times 
& Seasons which contained the portion of the Book of Abraham that gave his account of Kolob, 
Oliblish, God siting upon his Throne The Earth, other planets & many great & glorious things as 
revealed to Abraham through the power of the priesthood. The truths of the Book of Abraham are 
truly edifying great & glorious which are among the rich treasures that are revealed unto us in the 
last days. 


PagelOl 




March 20th Sunday Sennon of Joseph the Seer 

A large assembly of Saints gather together at an early hour to hear a discours deliverd upon the 
Subject of Baptism by Joseph the Seer, but as a young child was dead & his Corpes presented in 
the assembly it called forth many remarks from The speaker upon death & the resurrection which 
were in the highest degree interesting & his remarks upon Baptism was truly glorious to the 
believer in Jesus Christ. The following is a brief synopsis of some of the items presented in the 
discours: 

The Speaker read the 14 ch. Revelations, And sayes "we have again the warning voice sounded 
in our midst which shows the uncertainty of human life. And in my leasure moments I have 
meditated upon the subject, & asked the question Why is it that infant innocent Children are 
taken away from us, esspe-cially those that seem to be most intelligent beings?" 

Answer. "This world is a vary wicked world & it is a proverb that the world grow weaker & 
wiser, but if it is the case the world grows more wicked & corrupt. In the early ages of the world 
A richeous man & a man of God & intelligence had a better chance to do good to be received & 
believed than at the present day. But in these days such a man is much opposed & persecuted by 
most of the inhabitants of the earth & he has much sorrow to pass through. Hence the Lord takes 
many away even in infancy that they may escape the envy of man, the sorrows & evils of this 
present world & they were two pure & to lovly to live on Earth. Therefore if rightly considered 
we have , instead of morning we have reason to rejoice, as they are deliverd from evil & we shall 
soon have them again. 

What chance is their for infidelity when we are parting with our friends almost daily? None at all. 
The infidel will grasp at evry straw for help untill death stares him in the face & then his 
infidelity takes its flight for the realities of the eternal world are resting upon him in mighty 
power & when evry earthly support & prop fails him, he then sensibly feels the eternal truths of 
the immortality of the Soul. 

* Also the doctrin of Baptizing Children or sprinkling them or they must welter in Hell is a 
doctrin not true not supported in Holy writ & is not consistant with the character of God. The 
moment that Children leave this world they are taken to the bosom of Abraham. The ownly 
difference between the old & young dying is one lives longer in heaven & Eternal light & glory 
than the other & was freed a little sooner from this miserable wicked world. Notwithstanding all 
this glory we for a moment loose sight of it & mourn the loss but we do not mourn as those 
without hope. * 

(We should take warning & not wait for the death bed to repent.) As we see the infant taken away 
by death, so may the youth & middle aged as well as the infant suddenly be called into eternity. 
Let this then proove as a warning to all not to procrastinate repentance or wait till a death bed, for 
it is the will of God that man should repent & serve him in health & in the strength & power of 
his mind in order to secure his blessings & not wait untill he is called to die. 


Page 102 




"My intention (says the speaker) was to have treated upon the subject of Baptism. But having a 
case of death before us, I thought it proper to refer to that subject. I will now however say a few 
words upon that subject Baptism as intended. 

God has made certain decreas which are fixed & unalterable. For instance God set the sun, the 
moon, the stars in the heavens, & given them their laws conditions, & bounds which they cannot 
pass except by his command. They all move in perfect hannony in there sphere & order & are as 
wonders, lights & signs unto us. The sea also has its bounds which it cannot pass. God has set 
many signs in the earth as well as in heaven. For instance the oaks of the forest the fruit of the 
tree, the herd of the field all bear a sign that seed hath been planted there. For it is a decree of the 
Lord that evry tree fruit or herb bearing seed should bring forth after its kind & cannot Come 
forth after any other law or principle. 

Upon the same principle do I contend that Baptism is a sign, ordained of God for the believer in 
Christ to take upon himself in order to enter into the kingdom of God. "For except you are bom 
of the water & the spirit you cannot enter into the kingdom of God, saith the Savior. As It is a 
sign or command which God hath set for man to enter into this Kingdom of God those who seek 
to enter in any other way will seek in vain, for God will not receive them neither will the angels 
acknowledge their works as as accepted, for they have not taken upon themselves those 
ordinances & signs which God ordained for man to receive in order to receive a celestial glory, & 
God has decreed that all that who will not obey his voice shall not escape the damnation of hell. 
What is the damnation of hell? To go with that society who have not obeyed his commands. 

Baptism is a sign to God, to Angels to heaven that we do the will of God & their is no other way 
beneath the heavens whareby God hath ordained for man to come to God & any other cource is 
in vain. God hath decreed & ordained that man should repent of all his sins & Be Baptized for 
the remission of his sins. Then he can come to God in the name of Jesus Christ in faith. Then we 
have the promise of the Holy Ghost. 

What is the sign of the healing of the sick? The laying on of hands is the sign or way marked out 
by James & the custom of the ancient saints as ordered by the Lord & we Should not obtain the 
blessing by persuing any other course except the way which God has marked out. 

What if we should attempt to get the Holy Ghost through any other means except the sign or way 
which God hath appointed? Should we obtain it? Certainly not. All other means would fail. The 
Lord says do so & so & I will bless so & so. Their is certain key words & signs belonging to the 
priesthood which must be observed in order to obtaine the Blessings. 

The sign of Peter was, to repent & be baptized for the remission of Sins, with the promise of the 
gift of the Holy Ghost & in no other way is the gift of the Holy Ghost obtained. 

Their is a difference between the Holy Ghost & the gift of the Holy Ghost. Cornelius received the 
Holy Ghost before he was Baptized which was the convincing power of God unto him of the 


Page 103 




truth of the gospel. But he could not receive the gift of the Holy Ghost untill after he was 
Baptized, & had he not taken this sign or [ordinances upon him the Holy Ghost which 
convinced him of the truth of God would have left him untill he obeyed these ordinances & 
received the gift of the Holy Ghost by the laying on of hands according to the order of God. He 
could not have healed the sick or command an evil spirit to come out of a man & it obey him for 
the spirit might say to him as he did to the sons of Seavy Peter I know & Christ I know but who 
are ye? 

It matereth not whether we live long or short after we come to a knowledge of the principles & 
obey them. I know that all men will be damned if they do not come in the way which God has 
appointed. 

As Concerning the resurrection I will merly say that all men will come from the grave as they lie 
down, whether old or young. Their will not be added unto ther stature one cubit neither taken 
from it All being raised by the power of God having the spirit of God in their bodies & not 
Blood. Children will be enthroned in the presence of God & the Lamb with bodies of the same 
stature that were on earth. Having been redeemed by the Blood of the Lamb they will there enjoy 
a fulness of that light Glory & intelligence which is received in the celestial kingdom of God. 
"Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord, for they rest from their labours & their works do 
follow them. 

The speaker before closing called upon the vast assembly before him to humble themselves in 
faith before God, & in mighty Prayer & fasting to call upon his Holy name, untill the elements 
were purified over our heads & the earth sanctified under our feet that the inhabitants of this city 
may escape the power of the disease pestilence & destroyer that rideth upon the face of the earth 
& that the holy spirit of God may rest upon this vast multitude. 

At the close of the meeting President Smith infonned the congregation that he should attend to 
the ordinance of Baptism in the river near his house at 2 o-clock. And at the appointed hour the 
Bank of the missisippi was lined with a multitude of people & President Joseph Smith went forth 
into the river & Baptized with his own hands about 80 persons for the remission of their sins & 
what added Joy to the seene the first person Baptized was Mr L.D. Wason a nephew of sister 
Emma Smith the first of her kindred that have embraced the fulness of the gospel. 

At the close of this interesting seene the Administrator lifted up his hands towards heaven & 
implored the blessing of heaven God to rest upon the People, & truly the spirit of God did rest 
upon the multitude to the Joy & consolation of our harts. 

After Baptism the congregation again repaired to the grove near the Temple to attend to the 
ordinance of confirmation & notwithstanding president Smith had spoken in the open air to the 
people & stood in the water & Baptized about 80 person about 50 of those Baptized received 
their confirmation under his hands in the after part of the day; & during the intermission of these 
meetings their was probably as many more Baptized & confirmed for their Dead relatives at the 
Font By the Twelve. And those who wish for further infonnation concerning the seenes of the 


Page 104 




Sabbath in Nauvoo or any other day in the week I would say to all such come & see. W. 
Woodruff. 


H. C. Kimball Baptized abot 40 in the font. I assisted in confirming about [2?]0. It was truly an 
interesting day. 

March 21, 22, & 23 I spent in the printing office. 

24 I spent the day geting out manure upon my garden & I laboured so hard it made [me] sick. I 
could not rest at night. Br & Sister Benbow spent the night with me or evening rather. 

25th 'T Willford Owen met with a sad accident this day. He drank a strong lye by accident & came 
near killing him. It eat his lungs throat & mouth vary bad. We were fearful he would not recover. 
If he follows my footsteps he will have many hard accidents to pass through in life for I have 
been vary unfortunet in my childhood & youth in breaking my bones & run many hair bredth 
escape. 

26 Willford is still vary poorly. I spent the day in the printing office. 

27 Sunday 0 This was an interesting day. A large assembly met in the grove near the Temple. Br 
Amisa Lyman addressed the assembly & made many interesting remarks. He was followed by 
Joseph the seer who made some edifying remarks concerning Baptism for the dead. He said the 
Bible supported the doctrin. "Why are ye Baptized for the dead if the dead rise not &c." If their is 
one word of the Lord that supports the doctrin it is enough to make it a true doctrin. Again if we 
can baptize a man in the Name of the Father of the Son & of the Holy Ghost for the remission of 
sins it is just as much our privilege to act as an agent & be baptized for the remission of sins for 
& in behalf of our dead kindred who have not herd the gospel or fulness of it. 

After meeting closed the congregation again assembled upon the bank of the river & Joseph the 
seer went into the river & Baptized all that Came unto him & I considered it my privilege to be 
Baptized for the remission of my sins for I had not been since I first Joined the Church in 1833. 1 
was then Baptized under the hands of Elder Zerah Pulsi-pher. Therefore I went forth into the 
river & was Baptized under the hands of JOSEPH THE SEER & likewise did Elder J Taylor & 
many others & Joseph Called upon me to assist him & I did so & went in & Baptized 12 & then 
Joseph lifted up his hands to heaven & blessed the people & the spirit of God rested upon the 
congregation. We then again repaired to the place of meeting near the Temple & Elder Taylor & 
myself was confirmed by the laying on of hands. We then commenced confirming others who 
had been baptized. I confirmed about 20. Some remarks were made by Gen Bennett & Elder 
Taylor & the meeting closed. 

Baptized 12 & confirmed 20. 

28th Willford is still feeble but appears some better. I spent the day at the Printing office. Elder 
L. Wight has just landed in Nauvoo with about 170 Saints mostly from England & about $3,000 
dollars worth of Goods for the benefit of the Nauvoo House & Temple. The Temple is 


Page 105 




progressing well at the present time. 


* 

29 Spent the day in my business in the printing office except in the morning I sowed some inoins, 
beets & peas in my Garden. Willford Bleeds much at the nose which makes him vary week. 

30 & 3d- 1 spent the time in the printing office. 

3 1 Rode out onto the prairie & laid out the ground for ditching the front of my lot. Visited many 
sick & lade hands upon them. 


April 

April 1st Spent the day at the printing office counting over Hymn Book fonns. 

2 Spent the day at the printing office. 

April 3 Sunday I spent the day in writing in my Autobiography. 

4th Spent the day in the printing office. 

5 Spent the day in the printing Office. 

[April 6] 

Minutes of The 
Special CONFERENCE 
Held in Nauvoo April 6th 1842 

It being rainy the fore part of the day Conference did not meet untill 1 o-clock PM. President 
Hyram Smith occupied the time mostly through the day giving instruction to the Church. 

7th Rainy in the fore part of the day. Conference opened at 1 oclock. President J. Smith H. Smith 
Wm. Law & the Twelve took the stand & opened meeting & spoke upon a variety of subjects & 
called upon those who wished to be ordained to the office of an Elder to come forward & have 
their names taken. Many came forward. 

8th Sun rose plesent & conference opened at 10 o-clock. Elder L. Wight Presidents J Smith & 
Hyram Smith & others spoke. Then those that were to be ordained Elders were requested to 
remove from the rest of the congregation by themselves. They did so & six of the Twelve viz. B. 
Young H. C. Kimball, O. Pratt, L Wight, W. Richards G A Smith & myself went forward & 
Ordained 275 two hundred & seventy five to the office of Elders. 

This was truly an interesting time. More Elders were ordain on this occasion than were ever 
ordained in the Church of Latter Day Saints in one day before. While this was going on Elder 
Taylor was delivering a discourse from the Stand to the multitude, & also their was baptizing and 


Page 106 




confirming (from or) at the font in the afternoon. Elders Amiza Lyman & Wm. Smith occupied 
the stand in the afternoon & was followed by Joseph with few remarks & the Conference closed. 

9th The Saints in Nauvoo assembled at the house of president Marks at an early hour in the 
morning to pay their last respeck to the Body of Ephraim Marks Son of President Marks who 
died on the evening of the 7th. A large procession formed two by two & walked to the grove. A 
large concorse assembled. 

President Joseph Smith spoke upon the occasion with much feelings & interest. Among his 
remarks he said it is a vary solumn & awful time. I never felt more solumn. It calles to mind the 
death of my oldest Brother who died in New York & my Youngest Brother Carloss Smith who 
died in Nauvoo. It has been hard for me to live on earth & see those young men upon whome we 
have leaned upon as a support & comfort taken from us in the midst of their youth. Yes it has 
been hard to be reconciled to these things. I have sometimes felt that I should have felt more 
reconciled to have been called myself if it could have been the will of God. Yet I know we ought 
to be still & know it is of God & be reconciled. All is right. It will be but a short time before we 
shall all in like manner be called. 

It may be the case with me as well as you. Some has supposed that Br Joseph could not die but 
this is a mistake. It is true their has been times when I have had the promise of my life to 
accomplish such & such things, but having accomplish those things I have not at present any 
lease of my life & am as liable to die as other men. 

I Can say in my heart that I have not done any thing against Ephraim Marks that I am Sorry for & 
I would ask any of his Companions if they have done any thing against him that they are sorry for 
or that they would not like to meet at the bar of God. If so let it prove as a warning to all men to 
deal justly before God & with all men. Then we shall be clear in the day of judgment. 

When we loose a near & dear friend upon whom we have set our hearts we can never feel the 
same afterwards knowing that if we set our hearts upon others they may in like manner be taken 
from us. President Smith made many other interesting remarks & left it for President Rigdon to 
Close. 

President Rigdon arose & also said many interesting [things] & among other said that when we 
see a principle that makes us the most Happy if we will Cultivate that principle & practice it 
ourselves it will render others Happy for that course of conduct that pleases you will please 
others. I would say to the momers that death has made his heaviest stroke at you for should he 
take either of the parents away from the rest of the family it would set them down in the kingdom 
of God with their Son Ephraim. The speaker remarked that the death of this young man had made 
a vacancy in his heart that nothing Could fill untill it was filled by restoring the society of the 
Same person in eternity which is the case in loosing any friend. 

All the remarks were vary appropriate that were made on the occasion. The Body was then 
Conveyd to the grave in solemn silence & each as they passed by droped in a branch of evergreen 


Page 107 




into the grave. The Body was then coverd with earth which closed the scenery. 

The City Council met at 2 o-clock. I stayed a little season & came home with a hard head ake but 
notwithstanding this illness I set out a bed of english strawburies & 150 stocks of english red 
raspberrys in my garden which closed the business of the [day.] <We set> (3) <[pansies?] [-]>. 

April 10th Sunday (BB) A plesant morning. A large Congregation of Saints met at the grove. 
President William Law addressed the assembly for about 1 hour. 

Then Joseph the Seer arose in the power of God reproved & rebuked wickedness before the 
people in the name of the Lord God. He wished to say a few words to suit the Condition of the 
general mass. And I shall speak with authority of the priesthood in the name of the Lord God 
which shall prove a savior of life unto life or of death unto death. 

Notwithstanding this congregation profess to be Saints yet I stand in the midst of all characters 
and classes of men. If you wish to go whare God is you must be like God or possess the 
principles which God possesses. For if we are not drawing towards God in principle we are going 
from him & drawing towards the devil. Yes I am standing in the midst of all kinds of people. 
Search your hearts & see if you are like God. I have searched mine & feel to repent of all my 
sins. We have theives among us Adulterers, liars, hypocritts. 

If God should speak from Heaven he would Command you not to steal, not to commit Adultery, 
nor to covet, nor deceive but be faithful over a few things. As far as we degenerate from God we 
desend to the devil & looses knowledge & without knowledge we cannot be saved & while our 
hearts are filled with evil & we are studying evil their is no room in our hearts for good or 
studying good. 

Is not God good? [Yea?] then you be good. If he is faithful then you be faithful. Add to your faith 
virtue, to virtue knowledge & seek for evry good thing. The Church must be cleansed & I 
proclaim against all iniquity. 

A man is saved no faster than he gets knowledge for it he does not get knowledge he will be 
brought into Captivity by some evil power in the other world as evil spirits will have more 
knowledge & Consequently more power than many men who are on the earth. Hence it needs 
Revelation to assist us & give us knowledge of the things of God. What is the reason that the 
Priest of the day do not get Revelation? They ask ownly to consume it upon their lust. Their 
hearts are corrupt & they cloke their iniquity by saying that their is no more Revelations. But if 
any revelations are given of God they are universally opposed by the priest & Christendon at 
large for it reveals their wickedness & abominations. 

Many other remarks of interest were made by the speaker. I truly felt in my own heart that it was 
a profitable meeting. 

On my return home I was soon met by one of my old school mates & neighbours by the name of 
Lewis Allen native of Avon Connecticut. He has Called to visit Nauvoo & inquire into the 


Page 108 




principles of the Latter Day Saints. He herd Joseph the seer preach during the day & seemed 
much better satisfied than he expected. He spent the night with me & I lade before him the first 
principles of the Gospel. 

April 111 spent the day at printing office. Mr Allen was sick with the ague at my house. 

121 spent the time as usual at the printing office. Mr Allen was better of his Illness. Called at the 
printing [office] & I gave him 1 2 & 3 vol of the Times & Seasons $4.00 
To 1 Gospel Reflector $1.25 

To 1 Millenniel Star $1.50 

Total $6.75 

/I met in the Lodge with Joseph & the 12. See Church History./ 

I made him a present of the above works so that he might have a knowledge of our principles as 
they exhist. He spent the night with me. 

131 walked with Neighbour Allen to the ferry Boat at noon & took the parting hand. Spent the 
day in the printing office. 

April 14th 15 & 16 Spent the time in the printing Office. 

17th Sunday * I spent the day in Company with W Richards & Hyram Smith. 


I was Baptized on the 2 1 for my Mother & two Brothers. /See May 29./ 


18, 19 20 & 21 Was spent in the printing Office. During the evening of the 211 was attacted with 
the fever & ague with all its force & power. I had a sick night. 

22 Had a vary sick day with the fever. 

23d Was still sick with the ague & fevar. 

24 Sunday Elder B. Young called upon me in the morning. Wished me to go with him & visit the 
sick. I told him I was sick myself. He lade hands upon me & prayed for me & I felt Better & got 
into the wagon with him & rode 5 miles on the paririe to visit a sick Brother. I felt much better 
on my return. 

25 Spent the day in the printing Office. 

26 April 1842 TUESDAY Spent the time in the printing Office. 

* 


Page 109 





Click to view full size image. 


27th } I received a letter from Elder Dwight Webster Containing A Note on Hartford Bank Ct. of 
$50 dollars Nov 1, June ’34. 895 Check letter A, for which I am to forward him my Note in a 
letter. 

28th THURESDAY Spent the day in the printing Offic. 

* 

29th * Spent most of the day in the office. 

* 

April 30 Spent part of the day in the Office & drew home three loads of wood & ploughed part of 
my Garden which took me untill in the night. 1 got exceding warm & my Blood heat which gave 
me excessive head ake. 


May 

May 1st Sunday I wrote some in my accounts Books & Journal. } 1 wrote two letters one to Ezra 
Carter Jr. & one to llus F Carter. 

2 3 & 4 Spent in the printing office. 

5th Met on parade in the morning in the officer drill of the Nauvoo Legion. Spent part of the day 
in the Office. 


Pagel 10 




6th Met again on parade. Answered to my name & was dissmised. Planted com on the Kimball 
Block & spent part of the day in the office. 

May 7th 1842 


The whole Nauvoo Legion met on parade this day consisting [of] 23 Companies & they truly 
made a splended appearance. The whole Legion that were on parade were not much less than two 
thousand, & mostly well dressed in unifonn. Gen. Joseph Smith prepared a splendid dinner for 
the whole staff intire with their Ladies. A Steem boat Landed under the salute of their music at 
noon near Gen Smiths & landed about 40 Saints mostly from Herefordshire England. 


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TDtvtjA/- Af t Liter /f ttett #/j 

(ft + r* ✓#//*/•/ 

v« ( ji,„t i -v ■/, yt cl'" 1, '••tfr.i. 
f*r tvA/'/A / *"> J *••••• n, T ••• 

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*Note(5) To the font & in Company with Br C. C. Rich I Baptized about one hundred for the 
remission of Sins the healing of the Body & the dead while Elder Young & others confirmed 
them as they came out of the water & Before leaving I went into the pool & was Baptized for My 
Great Grandfather Josiah Woodruff & My Great Grand Mother wife of Josiah Woodruff making 
five of my / dead relatives which I have been Baptized for. 

8th Sunday I attended meeting with my whole family. A large congregation were assembled. 
President Rigdon addressed the assembly upon the subject of Religion. His discourse was much 
to edification. Others followed. After meeting many were Baptized in the font & also in the river. 

9th 10 11 12 & 13 Was Spent in the printing Office. 


Pagel 1 1 





14th Saturday I attended the city Council through the day. It was the most interesting council I 
ever attended in some respects. I wrote 2 letters to Isaiah Madison to } come to Nauvoo. The 
Twelve had a Council in the evening & silenced Benjamin Winchester untill he made satisfaction 
& discountenanced the Council held in Philadelaphia. 

15 Sunday I attended meeting at the grove. Elders L. Wight & B Young spoke in the fore part of 
the day & I addressed the congregation in the afternoon the first time I had spoken to the 
assembly at large for more than two years. After meeting I went * 2. Note(6) 

ts® 

Vengance is mine. I will repay saith The Lord. 

May 15th 1842 Sunday True information has just reached us that the Noted Governor Boggs of 
Missouri who By his orders expeled ten thousand Latter Day Saints, Has just Been assassinated 
in his own house & fallen in his own Blood. Three Ball wer shot through his head two through 
his Brains & one through his mouth, tongue & throat. Thus this ungodly wretch has fallen in the 
midst of his iniquity & the vengance of God has overtaken him at last & he has met his Just 
deserts though by an unknown hand. This infonnation is proclaimed through all the papers & By 
dispatched messengers & hand Bills through the land. Thus Boggs hath died as a fool dieth & 
gone to his place to receive the reward of his works. * 

I attended meeting at the grove in the forenoon. Elders L. Wight & B Young preached & in the 
Afternoon I preached it being the first time I had spoken to the Church for more than two years. 
At the Close of the meeting I went to the pool & Baptized in company with C C Rich about 100 
persons mostly for the dead & was also Baptized myself for My Great Grandfather Josiah 
/Medad/ Woodruff and his wife my Great Grand Mother. 

Azmon says our G Grand Lathers name was Medad. 

/* Boggs was shot but did not die but has sine recovered] from his wounds./ 

May 16, 17, 18, & 191 spent in the printing office as usual. 

20 [] I received a letter from L. R. Poster New York containing $30.00 dollars on what he owed 
me for Books. 

} I wrote a letter to Br Dwight Webster acknowledging the recept of $50 dollars which he lent me 
& sent him a note for the Same. I attended a general meeting of the Nauvoo Lodge. 

211 spent the day at the printing Office. We have had a cold rain for three days. 

22 Sunday I spent the day at home writing. 

23, 24, 25 Spent the time in the printing Office. 


Pagel 12 




26th } I wrote a letter to Elder L R Foster. 

27th The first Presidency The Twelve & High Council & virtuous part of the Church are making 
an exhertion abot these days to dense the Church from Adulterors fornicators & evil persons for 
their are such persons crept into our midst. The high council have held a number of meeting of 
late & their researches have disclosed much iniquity & a number been Cut off from the church. I 
met with the High Council to day on the trial of L. O. Littlefield Joel S Miles & Darwin Chase. 
The two former were cut of for Adultery & the case of D Chase was put of till tomorrow. 

} 28th The case of D. Chase was tryed & he restored to fellowship by the majority of own[ly?] 1 
vote. I wrote a letter to Sister Shuah C. Carter. 

29th Sunday I spent part of the day at home writing. In the evening I went to the font & [] 
Baptized Elder G. A. Smith for the restoration of his health. I also Baptized my wife, Phebe W. 
Woodruff for three of her dead kindred viz her Grand Father Joshua Fabyan & Grand Mother 
Sarah Fabyan & Great uncle John Fabyan. 

I was then Baptized under the hands of Elder G. A. Smith for & in Behalf of my Grand Father 
Eldad Woodruff & Grand Mother Dinah Woodruff /Also for the wife of uncle Samuel 
Woodruff/. Phebe was Baptized for & in Behalf of her Grand Father Ezra Carter & Grand 
Mother Phebe W. Carter, on the 21st of April the same day that I was Baptized for my Mother & 
two Brothers. 

30th I was Baptized under the hands of G. A. Smith for my Great Grand father Thompson & my 
Great Grand Mother Thompson Also for My Grand Father Lot Thompson & my Grand Mother 
Anna Thompsons. 

I Baptized Phebe W Woodruff for her uncle John Fabyan Aunt Sally Fabyan Uncle George 
Fabyan Uncle Joseph Fabyan. I also Baptized Br John Benbow for six of his dead kindred Also 
Sister Jane Benbow for six of her dead friends. 

3 1st Spent the time in the printing Office. 


June 


June 1st Spent the time in the printing office. 

June 1 2st I carried all of my family out to John Benbows for them to spend a few days with them 
& during the night I was taken vary sick. 

2 3d I returned to Nauvoo went to court Marshall but being sick went home. Was confined to my 
bed through the day. 

June T 4d I felt some better in the morning went to the printing office & made mail through the 
day. 


Pagel 13 




4 5th Sunday My wife & one child came home with Br Benbow. I had an exceding sick day & 
among other afflictions the ague. 

4 6th I arose vary feeble in the morning not able to get out. 

7 & 8th 9th Was still sick. Suffered much pain with the ague, fever, Bowel Complaint & piles all 
upon me at once. 

10th I was enabled to get to the printing office but was vary feeble. 

1 1th I attended City Council part of the day & 
the printing office the other part. 

12th Sunday I attended meeting in the fore part of the day & herd O Pratt preach upon the subject 
of building up Zion. 

131 spent the day in the printing office. 

14th I met in Conference with the Twelve in the evening. We decided that Elder Hiram Clark 
Should go to Liverpool and take Elder Amos Fielding place & that Elder Fielding bring his 
family to Nauvoo. 

15th Spent the day in the printing office. 

16th I attended the Nauvoo Masonic Lodge during the evening. 

17th I spent the day making Mall. /[] Ilus F. Carter address is No 460 Pearl St near Chatham New 
York City./ 

June 18th Saterday The Citizens of Nauvoo Both Male & female assembled near the Temple for 
a general meeting. Many thousands were assembled. Joseph the seer arose & spoke upon Several 
subjects. 

Among other subjects he spoke his mind in great plainness concerning the iniquity & wickedness 
of Gen John Cook Bennet, & exposed him before the public. He also prophesied in the Name of 
the Lord Concerning the merchants in the City that if they with the rich did not open their hearts 
& contribute to the poor that they would be cursed by the hand of God & be out off from the land 
of the living. 

The main part of the day was taken up upon the business of the agricultural & manufacturing 
society ie. we have a charter granted us by the Legislator of the state for that purpose & the time 
has come for us to make use of that Charter, ft is divided into stock of $50 dollars each share. 
Any person owning one share became a member of the society a stockholder. Each share is 
entitled to one vote. This is esstablished with a view of helping the poor. Arangments were 
entered into to commence operations immediately. 


Pagel 14 




Also Joseph commanded the Twelve to organize the Church more according to the Law of God. 
That is to require of those that come in to be setteled according to their Council & also to appoint 
a committee to wait upon all who arive & make them welcome & council them what to do. B 
Young, H. C. Kimball G. A. Smith & Hyrum Smith was the committee appointed to wait upon 
emigrants & settle them. 

19th Sunday I attended meeting in the fore part of the day. Herd a discourse deliverd by Elder 
James in the afternoon I Joined Mr Dunn & Miss Snyder in the Bonds of Matrimony at my 
house. 

20th I spent the day in the printing office. 

2 1 A large meeting was again assembled & addressed by president Smith concerning emigration 
agriculturall & Manufacturing persuits & was followed by the Twelve & others. 

22 Spent the day in the printing office. 

23 Spent the day in the printing Office. 

24 CELEBRATION OF ST. JOHN'S The Nauvoo Masonic Lodge assembled at 9 A.M. at J. 
Smith store. Received the visiting Brethren, fonned processin & marched to the Temple or stand 
near the Temple. It was judjed their was about six thousand persons present. We herd an address 
deliverd by President Rigdon appropriate to the occasion. 

We then returned to the Lodge & dispersed for two hours to take refreshment. Met at two oclock. 
Spent two hours in the lodge. We then dispersed. 

I called upon Mr A. Crane MD professor of Phrenology who accompanied me to my house & 
examined my head & the heads of my family & gave us a chart of each head. 

June 25th I spent the day in the printing Office. 

26th Sunday I attended meeting & had an interesting time. Our congregations are increasing. 

27, 28, 29, 30th Was spent in the printing Office. 

July 


July 1, & 2d I spent my time in the Office. 

3d Sunday Was an interesting day. About six thousand persons assembled at the place of meeting 
in Nauvoo & was addressed by Joseph the Seer much to our edifycation. He read the 7th ch of 
Daniel & explained about the kingdom of God set up in the last days & said many things which 
were truly edifying. 

4th JULY The Legion met as usual & celebrated the day fourth of July & had an interesting time. 


Pagel 15 




5th Met in the city Council. Passed laws & ordinances. 

6th Spent the day making mail. 

7 Spent the day in the printing Office. 

8 Spent the day in the printing office. } I wrote a letter to Milton Holmes. 

9th I attended City Council. 

10th Sunday I preached from the stand in the fore part of the day & spent the latter part of the day 
at home. 

July 111 spent the day at the printing Office. 

121 attended the City Council. 

13, 14, 15, & 161 spent in the printing Office. 

17th Sunday Elder John Taylor preached in the fore part of the day. I preached in the Afternoon 
& expressed my feelings in plainness upon various subjects. After meeting I repaired to the font 
& Confirmed about one hundred who were Baptized mostly for their dead relations. 

18th Spent the time as usual in the printing Office. 

19 [] Received a letter from Br Webster who informed me that Sister Eunice had given Birth to a 
son but that she was exeeding low & weak from her lungs complaint. 

20 [] Received a letter from L. R. Foster N.Y. 

2 1 Spent the time in the printing office. The time has come when their is again great excitement 
throughout the land against the Saints. This excitement has arisen partly because the Saints feel 
dispose to exercise those rights which the Constitution & Laws of the United States guarrentee 
unto us equal with all other citizens in attending the elections & voting for whom we please. 

Also Dr John Cook Bennet has been base wicked & corrupt & has been expeled from the Church 
& has gone forth abroad in all the land & is stiring up strife against the Saints by lying against 
Joseph & many others of the Church. Offences truly come but wo unto those through whom they 
come. 

22 Spent the time in the printing office. 

JULY 23d The time had come when we were under the necessity of having a new speck of paper 
& other materials for the printing Office & Book Binders which could not be purchased short of 
St Lewis & Joseph appointed me to go to St Lowis & purchase the articles & as it fell to my lot 
to perform the journey & business, I aranged my affairs & on Saturday this 23d of July I went up 
to the Steam Boat landing to watch for a Boat. 


Pagel 16 




I stoped at Br L Wights which was near the landing at which place I spent four days & nights 
watching for a boat expecting one evry hour. About noon on the 27th a boat hove in sight which 
we were truly glad to see. It was the Galena. We hailed & she stoped & took three of us on board 
viz Messrs Ashton, Moulton, & myself. 

We found the boat to be heavy loaded with led having 7,000 pigs on board & the water being low 
we soon saw we should have a slow journey. The boat crossed the river to Montrose. Stoped & 
empted the boat of its load into lighters & the hands had a tremendious fight while doing it. 

Spent the night at Montrose. 

28th Left Montrose & rode to Nashville. This made five days in sight of Nauvoo. After leaving 
home we left Nashville & went over the rapids to Keokurk. 12 miles. We run onto the rocks 
many times & spent the day getting off. 

29th Friday Left Keokurk. Rainy morning. Stoped at warsaw. We past Tully run on to a Sand 
Bank about dedrain & lay till morning. 

30th Got of the Sand bank at 7 oclock. Passed Dedrain & Marion City. Run on to another Sand 
bank which rendered the boat 6 hours. T I took a severe cold which settelled into the Billious 
fever & I was exeeding ill the remainder of the journey. We passed by Hannibal which looks like 
a flourishing town. We run onto another Sand bar about dark. 

3 1st Sunday We stoped at Louisiana for refreshments. Passed by Knoxville & run on to a sand 
bar & lay all day & night but lighted the boat during the time. 

August 

Aug 1st An exeeding Cold day & night & morning. As for myself I am in almost evry kind of 
trouble. A severe cold has settelled throughout my body. I have the Rheumatism, teeth ake, head 
ake, bones ake, have got the musketoe fever, Bilious fever, & sick Stomack, & am fearful that if 
we run on to many more Sand bars & am many more weeks getting to St Louis & if the 
Musketoes do not favor me more than they have done, that it will be a question whether I ever 
reach home or not. But I hope for the best. 

H[ ]. We have run smash into another sand bank. We have not gone more than 3 miles since 
we left the other that we was on the whole day. 

This is election day in Illinois Nauvoo &c. I wish I was there but here I am fast on a sand bar & 
like to be. We are both out of provisions & wood. I think sum thing will be done for the hands 
have gon on to the Island cutting wood. 

Got a lighter & took of some of the led. We then got off the bar & soon got on another. Soon got 
of & sailed 3 miles up the river & down again in another Channel. Then tied up to a wood pile 
&spent the night. 


Pagel 17 




2d Start well in the morning. The Musketoes have spotted up my face in a dredful manner. After 
running aground twice we pased Alton & the mouth of the Missouri River & arived in St Louis at 
12 oclock AM. We stoped at the American House. After Dining one of my busy scenes 
commenced notwithstanding] my ill state of health with the fever raging upon me I had much to 
do & but 24 hours to accomplish it in. I bought my stock of paper & other articles & walked till 
10 oclock at night. Was tired out. Returned to the tavern & went to bed sick with severe pain in 
the head. I did not get sleep untill 2 oclock. 

3d Was awoke in the morning by bleeding at the nose. Bled 1 pint. Felt vary weak. Much paine 
in the head. Not seen a well day since I left home. Commenced business before breakfast. 
Continued at it untill 2 oclock. Got all goods & things on board the steem boat Rapids & Bills of 
Fraite made out. Got dinner. Went to bed tired & Sick enough. Left St Louis at 6 oclock PM. 

4th Traveld well through the day. Run on to some sand Bars. Had to get a lighter & light of from 
one of them. I continued to suffered much with pain in the head & canker in the mouth. I killed 
the Canker by chewing a piece of tobaco. 

5th Friday Nose bled considerable in the morning. We sail well. Passed Marion city, do Quincy 
at 2 oclock. Arived at Keokirk in the night. 

6th I left the Boat. Took stage. Arived at Montrose in the midst of a Masonic possession. A lodge 
was instituted in Montrose. I had an interview with Joseph then crossed to Nauvoo home again & 
was thoroughly pickled with the Billious fever. 

But notwithstanding] my sickness I could not stop to rest for on my return I found the printing 
Office had stood still for about 10 day for the want of paper & the Boat was 5 days getting over 
the rapids during which time I went down the River with a skiff 6 miles to the Boat & got what 
paper we needed for the present use. We were untill midnight rowing over the rapids back again 
& in addition to my fever I had a sever cough. Distance to St Louis & Back 400 mils. 

10th As soon as the Boat arived at Nauvoo & landed our freight & I saw it distributed to its 
several places whare it Belonged I went home & retired to my bed & passed through the Severest 
fit of sickness I ever experience in life. I had a thorough course of the Billious fever. I was 
Brought exceding low & for several days I struggled between life & death. I felt some of the time 
like gathering up my feet & sleeping with my fathers. 

September 

I was confined to my Bed or house from the 10th of Aug to the 19th of Sept making 40 days. 
During my sickness the Twelve came & anointed me & lade hands upon me & rebuke my fever 
& I felt a testimony that I should recover. After I Began to recover I had a relaps twice which put 
me Back much. 

In one instance I was requested to attend a Conference or council of the quorum of the Twelve in 


Pagel 18 




the Case of Orson Pratt. I was weak & feeble yet I thought I would try to meet with them with the 
expectation that they would meet at Elder John Tay-lors who was also vary low with the Billious 
fever. But on our arival at his house he was so vary feeble he was not able to have it there so it 
was remove to President Hyram Smiths Office. Elder B. Young Conveyed me in his carriag to 
the place of meeting but I had not Been in the house more than 10 minutes before my strength 
began to fail me. I lay down upon a bench but had no sooner lain down than I was gone. My 
breath stoped. My Brethren raised me up took me to the door into the air & with the assistance of 
water air &c I was brought to Breath again but not without a hard struggle between life & death. 
The Brethering lade hands upon me & Br Hyram Smith prayed for my recovery. I soon began to 
breathe free but I was deprived of all my Strength. They convey me home. It being a warm time I 
was much troubled for Breathing through most of the night & it took me Several days to recover 
my former strength. 

During my sickness there was some important things transpired in the Church. We received the 
word of the Lord Concerning the Elders of the Church (through Joseph the Seer). The Lord 
manifested that it was his will that the first presidency, the Twelve, The High Council The 
quorum of High Priest, and the Elders quorum as a general thing Should go into the vineyard. 

The instructions were for the Elders to confine themselves to the free States & mostly to New 
England & the canidas [and] not to go to any of the indians or Slave States. The result was that a 
special Conference was called & three or four hundred Elders were called upon to go into the 
vineyard & about 400 Elders have since gone & many others are going. Their has never at any 
time been as great a turn out into the vineyard Since the foundation of the Church. 

Br J. Taylor & myself are the ownly ones of the Twelve tht have not gone out into the vineyard. 
We being sick could not go. Besides it was thought wisdom for us to continue in the printing 
Business. 

There was a Counsel of the Twelve held for four days with Elder Orson Pratt to labour with him 
to get him to recall his sayings against Joseph & The Twelve but he persisted in his wicked 
course & would not recall any of his sayings which were made in public against Joseph & others 
sayings which were unjust & untrue. The Twelve then rejected him as a member of their quorum 
& he was cut off /from the Church/. Dr John Cook Bennet was the ruin of Orson Pratt. /He was 
Cut off from the Church Aug 20, 1842./ 

President Joseph Smith has been much persecuted of late by being hunted & sought for by 
Sheriffs & officers from Missouri & Illinoise by the orders of Governors Reynolds & Carlin 
under pretence of taking him to Missouri to try him for being accessary to the shooting of ex Gov 
Bogg. But it is no more or less than the spirit of persecution. 

But though Joseph has been deprived of the privilege of appearing openly & deprived of the 
society of his own family Because Sheriffs are hunting him to destroy him without cause Yet the 
LORD is with him as he was upon the Isle of Patmos with John. Joseph has presented the Church 
of late with some glorious principles from the Lord Concerning Baptism for the dead & other 


Pagel 19 




interesting Subjects. He has appeared occasionally in the midst of the Saints which has been a 
great comfort to the Saints. 

But I was deprived of attending as I was confined with Sickness. 

} I wrote a letter to Br Webster in answer to one I received from him. (}) I also received a letter 
from Br Turpin. 

Sept 19th I Commenced work this day for the first time for 40 days. I had made arangments with 
Brother Bullard to do my fall work with his team but he informed me this morning that he would 
return to Iowa & what use I had of his team I must use it during the week. As I had been sick so 
long I had eat out & Burned out as it were for having any wood I turned out to work. I cut one 
acre of com during my first days work & stooked it up. 

20th & 2 1 Spent these two days drawing wood to my door. 

22d Spent the day Choreing about home. I had an interview with Elders Young & Kimball who 
had returned home for a few days to get some printing done. They were going out again in few 
days to hold conferences through this state. They had met in council with Joseph who thought it 
wisdom for Elder Taylor & myself to remain at home & attend to Printing. The Lord hath opened 
a door within a few days for puting the town of Keokirk into the hands of the Saints & Joseph's 
council was for me to go to keo-kirk & publish a political paper & Elder Taylor publish the 
Times & Seasons in Nauvoo. So I am aranging the affairs of my family to do as the Lord may 
direct. 

In addition to my own sickness Mrs Woodruff has had a rising on both of her thumbs which 
appears to be a species of the fellen which has caused her much pain for two or three weeks. Also 
our Baby Phebe Amelia has been quite sick for two or three weeks & for two days has been 
considerd dangerous. 

23d I spent the day drawing corn on the stock. I drew one acre of com 1 mile & put it into a rick 
at home, & felt exceding weary at night. The Officers of the Nauvoo Legion met for training 
during the day. 

24th I spent the day drawing rails & wood. The whole Legion met on parade. My child seems to 
fail. * I rented my house to Br [ ] for $3 pennonth [to] pay provisions store pay &c. 

25th Sunday I went down early in the morning to the printing Office & Baptized Brother Amiza 
Bonney & while absent from home our Child had a poor turn & Phebe thought it would die 
before I reached home. But she revived yet had a sick day. I spent the day at home writing in my 
Journal. I ordained one Priest to the office of an Elder. Brother Morley Joined me in anointing & 
laying on of hands upon my child & she began to revive from that moment. 

Br Joseph appeared upon the stand & addressed the Saints much to their edification though quite 
unexpectedly to them. 


Page 120 




26 Monday I Commenced labours this day again in the printing Office the first time I have been 
to the printing Office for 40 days. Our babe is still vary sick. 

27, 28, 29, & 30 & 34- Was spent in the printing office most of the time Posting Book. 

October 

Sept [sz'c] 1st Was spent in the printing Office. 

Sept Oct 2 Sunday Elder John Taylor called upon me & infonned me that I was not going to 
Keo-kurk But Joseph wished me to Assist in the printing in Nauvoo. Elder Allexander Arived 
from the South & called upon me. Our Babe has been preserved unto us. She appeared to be 
deliverd from her fever & is fast recovering. It has been vary healthy in Nauvoo this fall untill 
within a few days. Many have been taken sick & a Number of deaths. 

3, 4, 5, 6, 7, & 8 Was spent in the printing Office. 

9th Sunday Walked to Brother Burgess & visited a number of Sick persons & administerd unto 
them. <Spent some part of the day in [meeting?] [— ].> 

10 & 1 1 Spent as usual in the Printing Office. 

T * 12 Joseph the Seer is driven from home & deprived of the Society of the Church & his family 
because of falshood, Slander & Persecution from the hands of Governors rulers & wicked & 
ungodly men. He is in exhile sumthing like John on the Isl of patmos. ^ I wrote a letter to Joseph 
& sent him some papers & sweet potatoes. 

13 14 & 15 Was spent in the printing office. 

16th Sunday I preached in the fore part of the day to the congregation of the Saints & warned the 
Church against councelling against the interest of the Church but to take a course that would help 
Joseph while in exhile or being driven from home by wicked & ungodly men. 

In the after part of the day I walked a mile north to preach a funeral sennon but when I arived 
preaching was omitted as their was no more than time to bury the dead. 

17, 18, 19, 20 21 & 22 Was spent in the printing Office about my daily labour as usual. 

23d Sunday I spent in transacting some business of importance in behalf of Keokuck with Mr 
Ramek. 

24th We had a fire in the upper part of the printing Office this morning & we came near burning 
down. One minute delay more & we should not have saved the building. 

25 I went out to John Benbows to get our son Wilford Owen. He had been Choked near three 
days & had not swallowed any thing during the time. When we got there he had got relieved & 


Pagel21 




could swallow. We brought him home. Distance 12. 

26 27 28 & 29 Was spent in the printing Office as usual. 

30th g For the first time the Saints of God had the privilege of meeting in the Temple of the Lord 
in Nauvoo. A temporary floor was laid within the unfinished walls & seats prepared which would 
seat about 3,000 persons & the room was crouded & the walls cove[red?]. Joseph the Seer had 
returned to the City of Nauvoo & was expected to preach to the people but ill health & other 
things prevented. 

Oct 311 attended City Council at night. Spent the day in the printing Office. 

November 

Nov 1, 2, 3, 4, & 5 I spent the time in the printing Office. Days & evenings I spent at Elder Wm. 
Claytons drawing off the Times & Seasons Mail Book. 

Elder Wilard Richards returned from the east with his family to Nauvoo on Sunday oct 30. He 
came to My house Monday night. Was taken at 2 oclock with the cholera Morbus & was 
exceding sick. I was with him for several hours. He was low for several days. 

On Tuesday morning our son Wilford was taken vary sick with the croup & it seemed as though 
he would die for a little time & was sick for Several days & then recoverd. The Twelve returned 
home on friday. 

6th Sunday I spent the day in company with Elder Clayton. /Elder H. Smith preached in the fore 
part of the day./ 

7, 8, 9, 10, 1 1 & 12 Was spent in the Printing Office & in the city Council. Elder Taylor & 
myself had an interview with Joseph Smith & he wished us to take the responsibility of the 
printing Office upon ourselves & liberate him from it. He proffered to rent the property to us for 
simple interest & we concluded to take it. 

We spent several days in the city Council passing a law relative to writ of Habus Corpus. After it 
was passed Joseph felt secure to stay at home as the law protected him as well as all other 
citizens. 

13 Sunday I spent most of the day at the printing Office. 

14th Spent the day at the printing Office. 

15 An exeeding severe snow storm the worst I ever knew in the western country at this season of 
the year. 

16th The snow storm continues. An exeeding Cold day. Both man & beast suffer exeedingly. * 
We got out the 1st No Vol 4 of the Times & season Edited by John Taylor & Published By John 


Page 122 




Taylor & W Woodruff. I commenced making Mail. 

17 Cold weather Still continues. Many are suffering for the want of wood & provisions. The 
early winter has caught many unprepared. 

18 Spent the day in the printing Office. 

19 Attended City Council in the morning. Travel through town during the day on business. Saw 
Br Pullin from Ledbury Eng. Told him he might go into my house which was empty. A man had 
just left it. Been in one month & 20 days. Rent due $4. 

A Mr Nigh the grand Master of vennont Lodge deliverd a lecture at the Lodge room in the upper 
part of J Smith store which was quite interesting. 

20 Sunday I spent the day at home writing. 

21st Two of our Brethren was found firose to death on the prairie. Alpheus Harmon & his 
Nephew were the persons. They were found several miles apart. I spent most of my time in the 
Printing Office. 

22, 23 Spent most of my time in the printing Office. I assisted in laying out one of the corps of 
the Harmons. 

24th I Preached the funeral Sermon of the Hannons. It was vary cold. 

25, 26 I spent the time in the printing office. 

27th Sunday I went over the river on the ice with Wm. W Phelps. 

28th, 29, 30 Spent the time in the printing Office & running about town to get a team ready to go 
to St Louis for paper. We had another severe snow storm on the 29th. On the 30th A team & man 
came to the printing office to go to St Louis but Wm. W Phelps who was going was Sick & 
postpond it untill the day following. 


December 

Dec 1st I met at J. Taylors in company with Wm. W Phelps & Br Taylor & myself put into Br 
Phelps hand $2.53 dollars to go to St Louis for paper & other materials. He started with a 
waggon in the snow. 

2d I spent the day taking a schedule or envoice of the property of the printing Office. 

3d Also & to try to settle affairs with Joseph but as he was vary busy in attending Cort we 
progressed but slowly with it. 

4th Sunday I spent the day at the printing Office. 

5th A rainy day but a busy time with me. I spent the day in looking & counting over the property 


Page 123 




Hymm Books Books of Mormon &c to be made out in the schedule. 

6 Spent the day in printing Office. 

7 Elder O. Hide returned to Nauvoo this day after being absent two years & a half on a mission to 
England Germany Asia Jerrusalem. He visited Mount Olivet &c. He was the first Elder of the 
church of Latter Day Saints that ever visited Jerru-salem. 

8, 9, 10 Was spent in the printing Office & preparing a writing [-] an article & agreement 
between Taylor & Woodruff & J Smith in renting the printing Office. 

Dec 1 1 Sunday Elder Orson Hyde deliverd an interesting discourse at President Joseph Smiths 
giving an account of his travels at Jerrusalem & home again which was interesting. He saw the 
mede-teranean & dead sea at the same time from mount Olivet. Saw smoke or fog continually 
arising from the dead sea. Spoke of the sepulcher & many things that put him in mind of the days 
of Christ. He published our principles in the German language & circulated them among the 
various nations. 

12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 171 spent my time as usual in the Printing [office]. 

18th Sunday Spent the day at home. 

19, 20 21, 22, 23 24 Spent the week in the printing office. 

25 Sunday Spent the day at home writing. 

26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 3 1 Spent the time in the printing office. This closes the year of 1842. Thus 
year after year is rolling away into eternity. The commencing of the year found me in the city of 
London & the end in Nauvoo, Printing. 

As the Lord has been merciful & preserved my family & my own life from death, so may the 
Lord Still preserved us for the year to Come from Death, Sickness & evry evil & enable us to do 
the will of God & overcom the world. 


I Procured 24 subscribers for the T & Seasons. 

{ ========================= 

Synopsis of procedings of Wilford Woodruff during 
The year AD 1 842 


=========================} 

Travelled 450 Miles 

Held 10 meetings 


Page 124 




Attended 

2 Conferences] 

Councils 

4 

Baptized 130 for the dead 

& 13 remission of sins 

143 persons 

Was Baptized for dead relatives 

17 

Confirmed 

140 persons 

Ordained 

75 Elders 

Married 

4 persons 

Attended City Council 

12 days 

Wrote Letters 

15 

Received Letters 

10 

I Reported & recorded in this 
journal six sennons or addresses 

from President J. Smith 

6 recorded 


Spent most of the time during the past [year] in the printing Office attending to the printing of the 
Times & seasons & wasp & Book of Mormon keeping & posting Books &c. 

I Procured 24 subscribers for the 

Times & S 24 subscribers 

Instructions delivered by Prest. Joseph Smith before the Female relief Society of Nauvoo Ap 28, 
1842 


= = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = Note(7) 

Prest. J. Smith arose & called the attention of the meeting to the 12th Chap. 1st Corinth. "Now 
concerning Spiritual gifts" &c. Said that the passage which reads "No man can say Jesus is the 
christ but by the Holy Ghost", should be translated, No man can Know, &c. 

He contind. to read the chapter & give instructions respecting the different offices, & the 
necessity of every individual acting in the sphere allotted him or her, & filling the several offices 
to which they were appointed. Spoke of the disposition of men, to consider the lower offices in 
the church dishonorable & to look with jealous eyes upon the standing of others. That it was the 
nonsense of the human heart for a person to be aspiring to other stations than appointed of God. 
That it was better for individuals to magnify their respective callings, & wait patiently till God 
shall say to them to come up higher. 

He said the reason of these remarks being made, was, that some little thing was circulating in the 
Society, that some persons were not going right in laying hands on the sick &c. Said if he had 
common sympathies, would rejoice that the sick could be healed. 

That the time had not been before that these things could be in their proper order. That the church 
is not now organized into its proper order, & cannot be until the temple is completed. 


Page 125 




Pres Smith continued the subject by adverting to the commision given to the ancient apostles "Go 
ye into all the world &c." No matter who beleiveth; these signs, such as healing the sick, casting 
out devils &c, should follow all that beleive wether male or female. He asked the society if they 
could not see by this Sweeping stroke that wherein they are ordained it is the privilege of those 
set apart to administer in that authority which is conferred on them & if the sisters should have 
faith to heal the sick, let all hold their tongues, & let every thing roll on. 

He said if God has appointed him, & chosen him as an instrument to lead the church, why not let 
him lead it through? Why stand in the way, when he is appointed to do a thing? Who knows the 
mind of God? Does he not reveal things differently from what we expect? He remarked that he 
was continually rising, altho' he had every thing bearing him down, standing in his way & 
opposing. After all he always comes out right at the end. 

Respecting females laying on hands, he further remarked there could be no devil in it if God gave 
his sanction by healing. That there could be no more sin in any female laying hands on the sick 
than in wetting the face with water. That it is no sin for any body to do it that has faith, or if the 
sick has faith to be healed by the administration. 

He reproved those that were disposed to find fault with the management of concerns, saying if he 
undertook to lead the church he would lead it right. That he calculates to organize the church in 
proper order &c. 

Pres Smith continued by speaking of the difficulties he had to surmount ever since the 
commencement of the work in consequence of aspiring men, "great big Elders" as he called 
them, who had caused him much trouble, whom he had taught in the private council: & they 
would go forth into the world & proclaim the things he had taught them; as their own revelations. 
Said the same aspiring disposition will be in this Society, & must be guarded against. That every 
person should stand & act in the place appointed, & thus sanctify the society & get it pure. 

He said he had been trampled under foot by aspiring Elders, for all were infected with that spirit. 
For instance P. Pratt, O. Pratt, O. Hyde & J. Page had been aspiring. They could not be exalted 
but run away as tho’ the care & authority of the church were vested with them. He said he had a 
subtile devil to deal with & could only curb him by being humble. 

He said as he had this opportunity he was going to instruct the society & point out the way for 
them to conduct, that they might act according to the will of God. That he did not know as he 
should have many opportunities of teaching them as they were going to be left to themselves. 
They would not long have him to instruct them. That the church would not have his instruction 
long, & the world would not be troubled with him a great while, & would not have his teaching. 
He spoke of delivering the Keys to this Society & the church. That according to his prayers God 
had appointed him elsewhere. 

He exhorted the Sisters always to concentrate their faith and prayers for, & place confidence in 


Page 126 




those whom God has appointed to honor, whom God has placed at the head to lead. That we 
should ann them with our prayers. That the keys of the Kingdom are about to be given to them 
that they may be able to detect every thing false, as well as to the Elders. 

He said if one member becomes corrupt & you Know it; you must immediately put it away. The 
Sympathies of the heads of the church have induced them to bear with those that were corrupt; in 
consequence of which all become contaminated. You must put down iniquity & by your good 
example provoke the Elders to good works. If you do right no danger of going too fast. He said 
he did not care how fast we run in the path of virtue. Resist evil & there is no danger. God, men, 
angels, & devils, cant condemn those that resist every thing that is evil. As well might the devil 
seek to disthrone Jehovah as that soul that resists every thing that is evil. 

The charitable Society. This is according to your natures. It is natural for females to have feelings 
of charity. You are now placed in a situation where you can act according to those sympathies 
which God has planted in your bosoms. 

If you live up to these principles how great & glorious! If you live up to your privilege, the angels 
cannot be restrained from being your associates. Females if they are pure & innocent can come 
into the presence of God. For what is more pleasing to God than innocence? You must be 
innocent or you can not come up before God. If we would come before God let us be pure 
ourselves. 

The devil has great power. He will so transfonn things as to make one gape at those who are 
doing the will of God. 

You need not be teasing men for their deeds, but let the weight of innocence be felt, which is 
more mighty than a mill stone hung about the neck. Not war, not jangle, not contradiction, but 
meekness, love, purity, these are the things that should magnify us. 

Achan must be brought to light. Iniquity must be purged out. Then the veil will be rent and the 
blessings of heaven will flow down. They will roll down like the Mississippi river. 

This Society shall have power to command Queens in their midst. I now deliver it as a prophecy 
that before ten years shall roll round the Queens of the earth shall Come & pay their respects to 
this Society. They shall come with their millions & shall contribute of their abundance for the 
relief of the poor. If you will be pure, nothing can hinder. 

After this instruction you will be responsible for your own sins. It is an honor to save yourselves. 
All are Responsible to save themselves. 

Prest. Smith after reading from the above mentioned chapt. continued to give instruction 
respecting the order of God, as established in the church, saying every one should aspire only to 
magnify his own office &c. 

He then commenced reading the 13th chapt. "Though I speak with the tongues of men &c"; & 


Page 127 




said dont be limited in your views with regard to your neighbors virtues, but be limited towards 
your own virtues, & not think your selves more righteous than others. You must enlarge your 
souls towards others if you would do like Jesus, & carry your fellow creatures to Abrahams 
bosom. 

He said he had manifested long suffering & we must do so too. Prest Smith then read "Though I 
have the gift of prophecy" &c. He then said though one should become mighty, do great things, 
overturn mountains &c & should then turn to eat & drink with the drunken; all fonner deeds 
would not save him, but he would go to destruction! 

As you increase in innocence & virtue as you increase in goodness let your hearts expand. Let 
them be enlarged towards others. You must be long suffering & bear with the faults & errors of 
mankind. How precious are the souls of men! 

The female part of the community are apt to be contracted in their views. You must not be 
contracted, but you must be liberal in your feelings. 

Let this society teach now to act towards husbands to treat them with mildness & affection. 

When men is borne down with trouble when he is perplexed, if he can meet a smile, an 
argument, if he can meet with mildness it will calm down his soul & soothe his feelings. When 
the mind is going to despair it needs a solace. 

This society is to get instruction thro’ the order which God has established, thro’ the medium of 
those appointed to lead & 1 now turn the Key to you in the name of God & this society shall 
rejoice & knowledge & intelligence shall flow down from this time. This is the beginning of 
better days to this society. 

When you go home never give a cross word, but let kindness charity & love crown your works 
hence forward. Dont envy sinners, have mercy on them. God will destroy them. Let your labors 
be mostly confined to those around you in your own circle; as far as knowledge is concerned, it 
may extend to all the world, but your administrations should be confined to the circle of your 
immediate accquaintance, & more especially to the members of the Society. 

Those ordained to lead the society are authorised to appoint the different offices as the 
circumstances shall require. 

If any have a matter to reveal, let it be in your own tongue. Do not indulge too much in the gift of 
tongues, or the devil will take advantage of the innocent. You may speak in tongues for your own 
comfort but 1 lay this down for a rule that if any thing is taught by the gift of tongues, it is not to 
be received for doctrine. 

Prest. Smith then offered instruction respecting the propriety of females administering to the sick 
by the laying on of hands. Said it was according to revelation &c. Said he was never placed in 
similar circumstances & never had given the same instruction. 


Page 128 




He closed his instructions by expressing his satisfaction in improving the opportunity. 

The spirit of the Lord was pour’d out in a very powerful manner, never to be forgotten by those 
present on that interesting occasion. 


Copied by John [.] McEwan 
Augst. 27th 1844 


Testimony of Mother Lucy Smith 

Mother Smith rose & said she was glad the time had come that iniquity could be detected & 
reproach thrown off from the heads of the church. We come into the church to be saved that we 
may live in peace & sit down in the Kingdom of heaven. If we listen to, & circulate every evil 
report, we shall idly spend the time which should be appropriated to the reading of the scriptures, 
the Book of Mormon. We must remember the words of Alma pray much at morning, noon & 
evening, feed the poor &c. She said she was old. Could not meet with the society but few times 
more, & wished to leave her testimony that the book of mormon is the book of God. That Joseph 
Smith is a man of God, a prophet of the Lord set apart to lead the people. If we observe his words 
it will be well with us; if we live righteously on earth, it will be well with us in Eternity. 


The following are the names of the Dead that Wilford Woodruff & Phebe W Woodruff was 
Baptized for in the font in the house of the Lord in Nauvoo, in 1842: 


Relationship 

Baptized for 


Persons Names Date Days 


/H C Kimball/ 

Mother 

Brother 

Brother 

/G.A.S./ 

Great Grand father 
Great Grand Mother 
/GAS/ 

Grand Father 
Grand Mother 
/GAS/ 

Great Grand Father 


Bulah Woodruff April 

Philo Woodruff " 

Asahel H. Woodruff" " 

Josiah Woodruff May 

Woodruff " 

Eldad Woodruff 
Dinah Woodruff 

Thompson May 


21 


15 

29 
»! 

30 


Page 129 




Great Grand Mother 
Grand Father 
Grand Mother 
/G.A.S./ 

Uncle 
Aunt 
Uncle 
Aunt 
Aunt 
[-] Aunt 

The following persons were baptized for by W Woodruff in the river In AD 1844 in Nauvoo: 


/G.A.S./ 


Uncle 

Cyrus Thompson 

Aug 

25 

Aunt 

Amna Thompson 

ft 

tf 

Aunt 

Sylva Thompson 

ft 

tt 

Cousin 

Hyram Barber 

tt 

tt 

Cousin 

Electa Woodruff 

tt 

tt 

Note (8)The following are the names of the dead 

that Elder Willford Woodruff was baptized for 

in Nauvoo in the River in AD 1841 




Gnd 

Father 

Asahel 

Hart 

Augt. 26th 

tf 

Mother 


Hart 

tt tf 

/Geo. A. Smith/ 

Uncle 

Asahel 

Hart 

tf tf 


ft 

Joseph 

Hart 

tf ft 


Aunt 

Sophrona 

Hart 

tt tf 


Uncle 

Adna 

Hart 

tf tf 


Aunt 

Eunice 

Hart 

tf tf 


Friend 

Robt. 

Mason 

ft ft 


Uncle 

Erastus 

Hart 

tt tf 


Cousin 

Milla 

Woodruff 

tf ft 


Cousin 

Hellan 

Woodruff 

tf tt 


tt 

Henry 

Woodruff 

tf ft 


ft 

Laura 

Hoskins 

tt tf 


ft 

Marietta 

Hoskins 

ft tf 


Uncle 

Wakeman 

Standley 

tf tf 


Thompson " " 

Lot Thompson " " 

Anna Thompson " " 

Eldad Woodruff July 18 

Lewy Woodruff " " 

Amasa Frisby " " 

Elizabeth Frisby " " 

Achsa Woodruff " " 

Woodruff 


January 1st 1843 
to 


Page 130 




December 31, 1844 


Wilford Woodruffs Daily Journal 
and History in 1 843 

January 
JAN 1st 1843 


I spent this day by Starting at sunrise in company with Mrs Woodruff & Br Newbury & two 
sisters in a two hors sleigh & crossing the Mississippi River on the ice & travled 1 5 miles into 
iowa Territory & Joined Mr Abram Newbury & Miss Eliza Duty in Matrimony. We then took 
diner & returned home making in all 30 miles while the thermometer stood 10 degrees below 
zero. 

2d It is an important erea in the history of the Church about these days. Joseph Smith the Prophet 
& Seer of the Church has been Persecuted & driven into the willdemess from his family & 
Church in Nauvoo in consequence of illegal oaths, affidavits & edicts, from men in authority 
Govornors &c. But having a new govomor Joseph Smith came forth & deliverd himself up to the 
authorities & demanded a trial & it has been granted him within a few days past before the 
Circuit Court of the United States & has been honorably acquited according to the law of the 
Land, & is now returning to Nauvoo to have a jubilee. 

Elder John Taylor has gone to Springfield with Joseph & about 20 other Brethren which leaves 
the Printing Office in my care which makes much business for me more than I can conveniently 
attend to. 

3, 4, 5, 6, 7, & 8 My time was spent in the Printing office. 

Jan 8 Sunday I spent the time at horn. 

9, 10, 11, 12, 13, & 14 was spent in the Office. 

15 Sunday I spent the time at home. 

16, H & 18 Was spent in the printing office. 

17th This was an interesting day. A day that was appointed by general proclamation for 
humiliation fasting & Prayer & thanksgiving for the release & delivery we had received. 

Meetings were appointed in each ward throughout the city. 

I met at President Joseph Smith's & we had an interesting time. Br Joseph spoke to some length 
on the kingdom of God & the Baptism of John. He said the kingdom of God was set upon the 


Pagel31 





earth in all ages from the days of Adam to the presant time whenever there was a man on earth 
who had authority to Administer the ordinances of the gospel or a priest of God & unto such a 
man God did reveal his will concerning the Baptism of John. It was the Baptism of repentance 
unto the remission of sins for the receiving of the Holy Ghost & it was the gospel Baptism. These 
were questions which had been in debate for many years & in some degree among the Saints. 

He also spoke upon the subject of honor & dishonor &c. Many prayers & exhertations were 
made. I spoke twice & felt much of the spirit of the Lord & had an interesting time. 

Jan 18th Joseph Smith the Prophet & his Lady made a fiest for his friends as a time of rejoiceing 
with them in consequence of his deliverence from oppression. We had an interesting day about 
20 of those who went with him to Springfield & also the Twelve & many others numbering in all 
about 75 persons. Gen Law & Miss Eliza Snow had composed each of them a song which was 
printed in a hand Bill & sung as it was vary appropriate to the occasion. 

After having our feast over & spending the day in social conversation we returned to our homes 
rejoiceing that [we] could again have the privilige of enjoying the society of our prophet & seer. 

/Orson Pratt Resteration/ 

19th This was also an interesting day in consequence of the return of Orson Pratt to the quorum 
of the Twelve. He had returned & repented in dust & 

ashes, as it were for opposing Joseph & the Twelve &c. We met at Brigham Youngs the first 
Presidency & the Twelve & conversed over the subject & Orson Pratt desired much to return to 
the quorum of the Twelve. We had an interesting time together. 

We then assembled at the river & Joseph the Seer went into the river from the Ice & Baptized 
Orson Pratt & his wife & widow Granger. Joseph confirmed them & ordaind Orson Pratt to the 
Apostle-ship & his former standing which caused Joy to our hearts. 

Elder Amasa Lyman who had been appointed in his stead as a member of the quorum of the 
Twelve was taken in to the first Presidency which left the place again vacant for Orson Pratt. 

Jan 20, 21,1 spent the time in the Printing office. 

22d Sunday President Joseph Smith deliverd an interesting discourse at the Temple to a large 
congregation. Among other things he treated upon the kingdom of God & the baptism of John. 

He remarked some say the kingdom of God was not set up on earth untill the day of pentecost & 
that John did not preach the Baptism of repentance for the remission of sins. But I say in the 
name of the Lord that the kingdom of God was set upon earth from the days of Adam to the 
present time whenever there has been a righteous man on earth unto whom God revealed his 
word & gave power & authority to administer in his name: 

And whare theire is a Priest of God, A minister who has power & Authority from God to 


Page 132 




administer in the ordinances of the Gospel & officiate in the Priesthood of God, theire is the 
kingdom of God & in consequence of rejecting the gospel of Jesus Christ & the Prophets whom 
God hath sent, the judgments of God hath rested upon people, cities & nations in various ages of 
the world, which was the case with the cities of Sodom & gomoroah who were destroyed for 
rejecting the Prophets. 

Now I will give my testimony. I care not for man. I speak boldly & faithfully & with authority. 
How is it with the kingdom of God? Whare did the kingdom of God begin? Whare their is no 
kingdom of God their is no salvation. What constitutes the kingdom of God? Whare there is a 
prophet, a priest, or a righteous man unto whom God gives his oracles there is the kingdom of 
God, & whare the oracles of God are not there the kingdom of God is not. 

In these remarks I have no allusion to the kingdoms of the earth. We will keep the Laws of the 
Land. We do not speak against them. We never have & we can hardly make mention of the state 
of Missouri of our persecutions there &c but what the cry goes forth that we are guilty of larceny, 
Burglary, arson treason & murder &c &c which is fals. We speak of the kingdom of God on the 
earth not the kingdoms of men. 

The plea of many in this day is that we have no right to receive revelations. But if we do not get 
revelations we do not have the oracles of God & if they have not the oracles of God they are not 
the people of God. But say you what will become of the world or the various professors of 
religion who do not believe in revelation & the oracles of God as continued to his Church in all 
ages of the world when he has a people on earth? I Tell you in the name of Jesus Christ they will 
be damned & when you get into the eternal world you will find it to be so. They cannot escape 
the damnation of hell. 

As touching the gospel & Baptism that John preached 1 would say that John came preaching the 
gospel for the remission of Sins. He had his authority from God & the oricles of God were with 
him & the kingdom of [God] for a season seemed to be with John alone. The Lord promised 
Zecheriah that he should have a son, which was a desendant of Aaron & the Lord promised that 
the priesthood should continue with Aaron & his seed throughout their generations. 

Let No man take this honour upon himself except he be Called of God as was Aaron, & Aaron 
received his Call by Revelation. An angel of God Also appeared unto Zecheriah while in the 
Temple [and said] that he should have a son whose name should be John & he should be filled 
with the Holy Ghost. Zechariah was a priest of God & officiating in the Temple & John was a 
priest after his father & held the keys of the aronic priesthood & was Called of God to preache 
the Gospel & the kingdom of God & the Jews as a nation having departed from the Law of God 
& the gospel the Lord prepared the way for transfer-ing it to the gentiles. 

But says one the kingdom of God Could not be set up in the days of John for John said the 
Kingdom was at hand. But I would ask if it could be any nearer to them than to be in the hands of 
John. The people need not wait for the days of Pentecost to find the kingdom of God for John 
had it with him, & he came forth from the wilderness crying out repent ye for the kingdom of 


Page 133 




heaven is at hand as much as to haul out here I have got the kingdom of God & I am coming after 
you. Ive got the kingdom of God & you can get it & I am Coming after you & if you dont receive 
it you will be damned & the Scriptures represent that all Jerrusalem went out unto Johns 
Baptism. Here was a legal administrator, & those that were baptized were subjects for a king & 
also the laws & oracles of God were there. Therefore the kingdom of God was there, for no man 
could have better authority to Administer than John & our Savior submitted to that authority 
himself by being Baptized By John. Therefore the kingdom of God was set up upon the earth 
even in the days of John. 

Their is a difference between the kingdom of God & the fruits & blessings that flow from that 
kingdom becaus their was more miracles, gifts, graces visions healings, tongues &c in the days of 
Jesus Christ & the Apostles & on the day of pentecost than under Johns Administration. It does 
not prove by any means that John had not the kingdom of God; any more than it would that a 
woman had not a milk pan because she had not a pan of milk. For while the pan might be 
Compared to the kingdom the milk might be Compared to the blessings of the kingdom. 

John was a priest after the order of Aaron & had the keys of that priesthood & came forth 
preaching repentance & Baptism for the remission of sins but at the same time crys out there 
cometh one after me more mighter than I the latches of whose shoes I am not worthy to unlose, & 
christ came according to the words of John, & he was greater than John because he held the keys 
of Melchisedic Priesthood & the kingdom of God & had before revealed the priesthood to 
Moses. Yet christ was baptized by John to fulfill all righteousness & Jesus in his teaching says 
upon this rock I will build my Church & the gates of hell shall not prevail against it. What rock? 
Revelation. 

Again he says except ye are bom of the water & the spirit ye cannot inter into the kingdom of 
God, And though the heavens & earth should pass away my words shall not pass away. If a man 
is bom of the water & the spirit he can get into the kingdom of God. It is evident the kingdom of 
God was on the earth & John prepared subject for kingdom by preaching the gospel to them & 
Baptising them & he prepared the way before the savior or came as a fore runner & prepared 
subject for the preaching of Christ, & Christ preached through Jerrusalem on the same ground 
whare John had preached & when the Apostles were raised up they worked in Jerrusalem & Jesus 
commanded them to tarry there untill they were endowed with power from on high. Had they not 
work to do in Jerrusalem? They did work & prepared a people for the pentecost. The kingdom of 
God was with them before the day of pentecost as well as afterwords & it was also with John & 
he preached the same gospel & Baptism that Jesus & the Apostles preached after him. 

The endowment was to prepare the desiples for their mission into the world. Whenever men can 
find out the will of God & find an Administrator legally authorized from God there is the 
kingdom of God. But whare these are not, the kingdom of God is not. All the ordinances 
Systems, & Administrations on the earth is of no use to the Children of men unless they are 
ordained & authorized of God for nothing will save a man but a leger Administrator for none 
others will be acknowledge either by God or Angels. 


Page 134 




I know what I say. I understand my mishion & business. God Almighty is my shield & what Can 
man do if God is my friend? I shall not be sacrafised untill my time comes. Then I shall be 
offered freely. All flesh is as grass & a governor is no better than other men. When he dies he is 
but a bag of dung. 

I thank God for preserving me from my enemies. I have no enmity. I have no desire but to do 
all men good. I feel to pray for all men. We dont ask any people to throw away any good they 
have got. We ownly ask them to Come & get more. What if all the world should embrace this 
gospel? They would then see eye to eye & the blessings of God would Be poured out upon the 
people which is my whol Soul Amen. 

Jan 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, & 28 Was spent in the Printing Office. 

29th Sunday Spent the time at home. 

30 & 3 1 Spent the time in the Printing Office. 

February 

Feb 1, 2, 3 & 4 Spent my time as usual in the Printing Office. We commenced this week on 
Monday to sterrotype the Doctrins & covenants of the church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day 
Saints. 

Feb 5th Sunday Spent the time at home. 

6, 7, 8, 9, 10, & 1 1 Spent this week in the printing office with the exception of Monday. Was the 
election & a warm contest it was esspecially in the evening. 

12 Sunday I spent the time at home writing. 

13, 14 15 16 17 18 Spent the time in the printing Office. Get along well with the doctrins & 
covenants. But we have exeeding Cold weather. 

19 Sunday I spent the time at home. 

20 Spent the time in the printing office. 

21st A Public meeting was held at the Temple for the purpose of Advancing the cause of the 
Nauvoo House & other matters. Thousands were assembled together & were addressed by 
several persons. Peter Haws addressed the meeting & was followed By L. Woodworth who 
adressed the meeting under a figure of a pagan Prophet. Yet he made many interesting & 
appropriate remarks upon a variety of subjects esspecially concerning the Nauvoo House. 

President Joseph Smith arose & Addressed the meeting as a Christian Prophet for about an hour 
much to our edefycation. Many remarks he made were plain & pointed. Some vary applicable to 
Dr Foster which he afterwards acknowledged to be true. Joseph said the Pagen Prophet had 


Pagel35 




prophesied one thing that was true viz that if we did not build the temple & Nauvoo house it 
would proove the ruin of the place that if we did not build those buildings we might as well leave 
the place & that it was as necessary to build one as the other,,, & many other things were said 
much to the purpose. [Commas are Woodruffs .] 

22, 23, 24, & 25 Was spent in the printing Office. 

26 I spent the time at home writing. 

27, 28 Was spent in the Printing Office. 


March 

March 1st 1843 This is my Birthday. I am thirty six years of age this day. Time flies & waiteth 
for no man. 

It is exeeding Cold weather. The river closed by ice from Nauvoo to Montrose on the 15 of last 
November & it is not open yet but teams have crossed continually from shore to shore. 

2, 3, & 4 I spent my time in the printing Office. 

5th Spent the day at home. 

6, 7, 8, & 9 Spent the time in the printing Office. 

* 10 I Wilford Woodruff testily that about 7 oclock PM I discoverd a stream of light in the south 
west quarter of the heavens. The rays of Light were in the form of a Broadsword with the hilt 
downward the Blade raised pointing from the west south west raised to an angle of 45 degrees 
from the horizen & extending nearly or within 2 or 3 degrees to the zenith of the degree whare 
the sign appeared. This sign gradually disappeared from half past 7 & at 9 oclock immediately 
disappeared. 

The following is the declaration of Joseph the Seer conseming the foregoing sign: 

As sure as there is a God who sits enthroned in the heavens & as sure as he ever spoke by me So 
sure there will be a spedy & Bloody war & the broad sword seen last evening is the sure sign 
thereof. 

1 1th Saturday I spent the day in the Printing office. 

12 Spent the day at home writing. 

13th Spent the day in the office. In the evening I had a view of the sword in the heavens. 

14th At about half past Seven oclock in the evening the sword which had made its appearence for 
several evenings past moved up near the moon & formed itself into a large ring round the moon. 
Two Balls immediately appeared in the ring opposite of each other sumthing in the fonn of 


Page 136 




sundogs. Ann-other half ring is hung from those Balls sumthing in the shape of a horse shoe 
extending outside of the first ring with one line runing through the centre of the moon according 
to the following cut. 

facsimilee * * 


ti'f itpMf/ti i hfix it fv**' iy 

It thrift tr ill it •< 

$u*crif l*1 r Hiii/ 1 */ 

•> lAt w'rr **i*t t fftr, . e J~ 

• *'//t** 

it" / yvof t/tt %/,r/ H'ffa jr/jWjf 

/X U*t .Jjy Jtfa’/Kt 

• * " if** J jy <y//c‘ it i tAc 

Ut I tiny a /, ,%J * 4 if u> o/ t/t, >//y«vi// *tt fy, 

llft'Sli .*l>OOt Mj !***• 'frvrt* 

On furtiiny tiff y>u;r<? UiLh/i fuO 
tUtOf its ■y/'r.*rrt¥ .A'f' X’WrJ (Vf/***/* 

P**t mor* / *7' ,,,,v th* /nci * i V / 

it *e/f inti- 4/ jrjfi rtfy reenf tAe/nc\'/ty 
tier A*Ht int /»/*, J**U /) /'f iii* 

fin’) epfe/ii* */ /.»<// «?/#/« \*trtt A/im ml At 
ferine) >#*/».* -V HMheiAf/% /$*// Hue. i>hr/> t 
j-r»'i*\ t !*• n pj/i >t'»nAiityin !*•* »A-y*"7' 
j //^<i y//ef tJt(nutii’fvcrt*J* efth* J'irtt rift 
•1 *itit cm lie 1 pt-nun /At*r*/A / tn'lbn erf °t1 ****** 
**terJiay tc iA* ■* — 



Click to view full size image. 


15, 16 17, & 18 Spent the time in the printing office. We still have exeeding cold weather. The 
thermometer stands freequently at zero. The river has been frozen over so that people have 
continually crossed the river for more than four months from Nauvoo to Montrose A circumstanc 
that never was known befor by the oldest inhabitants of this region. 

19th Sunday I spent the day at home writing. 

20, 21, 22, 23, 24, & 25 The week was spent in the printing office. The weather has been 
uncommonly Cold mostly through the week. The thermometer has stood at Zero a number of 
days. 

The signs in the heavens are making theire appearance. Theire has been singular signs appeared 
in & about the sun for sever[al] days this week. O Pratt has taken a sketch of the same which will 
appear in the Time & Seasons. Their has also been other signs. The light that has been 
represented as a sword has made its appearance for several nights past in the same place & also 
on the opposite of the horizen has been seem A black streak about the size of the light one. While 
one is as black as darkness the other has considerable of the appearance of the blaze of a Comet 
& some have contended that it was a Comet. But it cannot be a comet for it appears about 7 
o-clock & disappears about 9 oclock remaining about two hours. Thus it appears that the signs 


Page 137 





that Joel & Jesus spoke of are making their appearance. 


March 26th Sunday I spent the day at home. I looked over the Mail that brought our exchange 
papers & found them mostly vary destitute of news of interest except the Case of Mackenzie 
which is still exciting the public mind & will probably be the longest before it is closed of any 
Case ever tried in the United States in consequence of the hanging [of] Spencer Small & another 
person on board of the Sommers in consequence of an expeted mutiny. Their is also some wars 
& rumours of wars earthquakes & fires & stormes, & murder throughout the land. 

27, 28, 29, 30, & 3 1 I spent this week in the printing office as usual. It still holds cold weather & 
no prospect yet of river opening. 

On the 3 1 friday I spent the Afternoon at Mr Lucian Woodworth's in company with Joseph 
Smith, Hiram Smith, Heber C. Kimball Orson Hyde, A Br Chase with our wives. We had a feast 
of a fat turkey & had a good time. 


April 

April 1st It is a pleasent day & thaws some. It is expected there will be a great rise of water in the 
Missisippi this spring as there is 5 or 6 feet of snow on a level up the river. 

2 Sunday We have another snow storm to day. The river is still frozen over so that teams cross. 

The following is the description of the Sun. 

HALOS AND PHARHELIA 

This morning between the hours of six and nine o-clock, the heavens exhibited a splendid and 
delightful appearance of halos or circles accompanied with parhelia or mock Suns. Clouds of a 
white & fleecy appearance were at the time floating in the atmosphere but so thin as not to 
entirely obscure the blue sky. The wind blue vary gently from the west by northwest, The cold 
being intense esspe-cially for the time of year and small crystals of ice or snow were visible & 
floating in the air. 

The following diagram represents these beautiful phenomena as they appeared about half past 
seven o-clock A.M. The magnitudes of the circles given in the following decription may not be 
exact as I was destitute of the proper instruments for their accurate measurement. 


Pagel38 




TB/ liifii*fscHl l t4c»'l tl 'r1<'>\ 

Hsitoy /urn p/rstn uui.aA^ 

7'/»s l/w// bn,,,, </,r 

W#v />/ • W</»y/ ,>„//« V 1 « V/// par hf /t\r *r>»t>rf 
<J/ooSj of ,ni’/ii { / y ,f forty n f>f'/ t 
wort itt/is tint* JfooltKj ,!,(/, d Jfrnovf/,,*} 
^ ^ > /till •Ht>+/ /«• etttfrt'/f t itPA/fy*; I 

'*>■ "" * //r ' •>'■? ;*nt/y fw ///, uLA 

‘■J. "S' 1 / *'/"• M-ti/i-y Zj 

yrto//y J,.r l /to tunr *>/- ><**/. .»/> 4 $/« -V/Cr-yuJ 
. * */ »f' or *>'o*v *»•"•<• vfttth \f/o-»tn,A i,. tK#\ 

v/r *'*"% -wj 

bt $ * f ' /''' "<*•'/*'/? ~>y Jrrrif'U*t\ 

,..- ' l, , ‘ , f -)ft. infoi>i*rt itte/tf. 
£r ft ft X *> t*rVcnlifi 
“* y/trr//* 0-nttr * hit i, 
^loofttfj '*ch* 
5?rl'*tM oott-f*. 
RW 

lhoi/ , Ao/t,9 1 

i*rj re i*\ (,t/b 

’XK^'£r£ 



Click to view full size image. 


* 


1st Let Z be the Zenith directly under which the observer is stationed looking to the east. Let the 
outer circle represent the horizon's the true sun about 18° above the horizon surrounded by a vary 
bright prismatic circle not far from 45° in diameter; the lower limb of which extended below the 
horizon nearly 41-2°. Its breadth and colours were about the same as that of a common rainbow. 
Nearly all the prismatic colours were discernible the red being on the concave part of the circle 
next [to] the sun. On each side of the sun at a and b towards the north and south there were two 
mock suns of different Colours vary splendid & bright in their appearance. 

2d The Sun was encircled by another halo, knirn, much larger than the fonner, and parellel to it 
being nearly 90° in diameter and its lower limb being sunk below the horizen about 21°. It 
exhibited the same colours as the first though not so bright. 

/3d/ At the top of these Circles at e and i, were two inverted arches whose Common Centre 
seemed to lay in the Zenith. The upper arch f i h was exeedingly brilliant and beautifully 
Coloured and appeared to be about 54° in diameter and that of the lower one dee about 99°. 
Annother Parhelion or mock sun appeared in the middle of the lower arch at c whare it Coincided 
with the circle first described but its Colours and brightness were much inferior to those of the 
collateral mock suns at a and b. 

4th There appeared a circle in b s a n t r, much larger than any I have yet described being about 
144° in diameter and of a uniform whiteness. It was about 18° above the horizen, and parallel to 
it passing through the tru Sun, s, and the collateral parhelia a, and b and also through two other 
parhelia, t and r sumthing about 90 or 100° from the sun one towards the north & the other 


Page 139 




towards the South. The Parhelia t and r were of a whitish colour and not vary distinctly seen. The 
intersections, m and n, of this circle with the k i m were rendered more distinctly seen. The 
intersections m and n of this circle with the circle k i m were rendered more distinctly visible 
than other portions of the two circles. ********* [Repetition and asterisks are Woorujfs .] 

O Pratt A.M. 

Professer of Mathematics in the University of the City of Nauvoo March 23d 1843 
April 3, 4, 5 I spent the time in the printing office 
{April 6 1843 (Jubilee)) April 6th 1843 

The conference of the church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints met at the Temple of the Lord 
at Nauvoo at 10 oclock AM. It held thursday friday & Saturday 3 days. It is the commencement 
of the fourteenth year of the Church which makes it the commencement of the Jubilee. We had 
an interesting time through the conference. 

[ ] 

April 44th 12 The Steem Boat Amaram arived at Nauvoo with about 230 Saints from England 
led by Elder Lorenzo Snow who had been in Englang about two years laboring. He was with me 
in London. We all felt to welcome him & the Saints to our Shores. 

44th 12th The $teem Boat Maid of Iowa arived with about 250 saints who had been in St Louis 
through the winter. Many were my old friends & acquaintance. P P Pratt & Dr Levi Richards 
were among the number. The Saints were made welcome & were glad to arive in Nauvoo. 

15th The New emegrants assembled at the Temple & received an interesting discourse from 
President Joseph Smith which was truly interesting to the Saints in general. 

April 16th President J. Smith Addressed the assembly of the saints at the temple of the Lord upon 
the subject of the death burial & resurrection of the saints. He had been requested to preach a 
funeral sennon by several persons who had lost friends & he had Just Received information that 
Elder Lorenzo Barnes had died in England. We received this infonnation by a letter from Elder 
P. P. Pratt. 

After reading the letter he addressed the assembly in a vary feeling interesting & edefying 
manner. Among many other remarks he said he should have been more reconciled to the death of 
Elder barnes Could his bodey have been laid in the grave in Nauvoo or among the saints. He said 
he had vary peculiar feelings relative to recieving an honorable burial with his fathers. He 
Considered Nauvoo would be a burying place of the saints & should he die he Considered it 
would be a great Blessing to be buried with the saints & esspecially to be buried with his father. 

Yes he wanted to lie by the side of his father that when the trump of God should sound & the 
voice of God should say ye Saints arise that when the tomb should birst he could arise from the 


Page 140 




grave & first salute his father & say O my father; & his father say O my Son! ! as they took each 
other by the hand. He wished next to salute his brothers & sisters & then the saints & he said it 
was upon this principle that the ancients were so particular to have an honorable burial with their 
fathers as in the case of Joseph. 

Before his death he made his kindred promise to carry his bones to the land of canann & they did 
so. They embalmed his body took it to the land of Canaan & buryed it with his fathers. 

Their is a glory in this that many do not Comprehend. It is true that in the resurrrection the bodies 
will be caught up to meet the Lord & the Saints will all be brought together though they were 
scattered upon the face of the whole earth. Yet they would not as readily Salute each other as 
though they lay down & rose up together from the same bed. To bring it to the understanding it 
would be upon the same principle as though two who were vary friends indeed should lie down 
upon the same bed at night locked in each other embrace talking of their love & should awake in 
the morning together. They could immediately renew their conversation of love even while rising 
from their bed. But if they were alone & in seperate apartments they could not as readily salute 
each other as though they were together. 

He remarked that should he live & have an opportunity of gathering his friends who had died 
together he intended to do it. But if he should not live to do it himself he hoped that some of his 
friends would. 

He wished all of the saints to be comforted with the victory they were to gain by the resurrection. 
It is sufficient to encorage the saint to overcome in the midst of evry trial trouble & tribulation 
though thunders roar & earthquakes bellow, lightnings flash & wars are upon evry hand yet 
suffer not a joint to tremble nor let not your heart faint for the great Eloheem will deliver you & 
if not before the resurrection will set you eternally free from all these things from pain sorrow & 
death. 

I have labored hard & sought evry way to try to prepare this people to comprehend the things that 
God is unfolding to me. 

In speaking of the resurrection I would say that God hath shown unto me a vission of the 
resurrection of the dead & I saw the graves open & the saints as they arose took each other by the 
hand even before they got up or while getting up & great Joy & glory rested upon them. 

17th I spent my time in the printing Office. 

18th I met in Conference with the Twelve & President J Smith not being Presant the conferance 
adjourned untill next day. 

19th Met again in council with the Twelve. President J Smith met with us & counciled us to take 
a mission in the East to obtain means to build the Nauvoo house as we were appointed So to do 
by the Conference. The Following persons were named of the quorum of the Twelve to take the 
mission to hold Conferences & obtained means &c: Brigham Young, Heber C. Kimball, Orson 


Pagel41 




Hyde, Orson Pratt, Wm. Smith, W. Woodruff & G. A. Smith, & Also to have Elder Page Join us 
in the east. Also Elder R. Hedlock, S. James & Carnes were appointed to go to England & 
Addison Pratt & three others to go to the Sandwich Islands. 

20 & 2 1 I spent in the Printing Office. 

23 29d I rode to Augusta on skunk River with B Young Joseph Young H C. Kimball, & G A 
Smith & Peter Haws to hold a conferance. 

23d 30 Sunday We held a conferance at Augusta. Had a good time. We preached the Nauvoo 
House & many Promised to assist in building it. We found about two hundred Saints in this place 
& had started a flourishing village three saw mills & two flouring mills & one of the best water 
privileges I ever met with. 

24th We returned home to Nauvoo. 

25, 26, 27 28, & 29 Was spent in the printing Office. 

30th Sunday I attended meeting at the Temple. A vary windy day. Wm. Smith & O. Hyde 
preached. 


May 

May 1st 2d 3d, 4 5 & 6 I spent the time as usual in the printing office. 

6th The Nauvoo Legion met & done well. I rode also. 

7th Sunday I attended meeting at the Temple, & Called upon Br Pollen. 

8 Spent the time in the Printing office. 

9th I left Nauvoo at 7 oclock on the Maid of Iowa in company with about one hundred 
Gentleman & Ladies on a Pleasure excursion to Burlington. General Joseph Smith & Lady his 
mother & family were of the Party. We had an excellent address by P. P. Pratt. We touched at 
Fort Madison on our way up and at Shokoquon on our return. 

10 & FT Spent the time in the Printing office. 

/1 1 Met in council with the 12. Appointed missions to England Scotland & pacific Isles./ 

12 Held a council & appointed a meeting at Laharp Ramus & Lima for the Twelve on Sunday. 

13th Elder B Young went to Ramus. Elder H. C. Kimball & O. Pratt went to Laharp & Elders G 
A Smith B Nobles & myself accompanied President J. Smith to Lima to attend to the several 
appointments which had been given out. 


Page 142 




14th Sunday The meeting was opened by singing, & Prayer By W Woodruff. Then Joseph the 
Seer arose & said It is not wisdom that we should have all knowledge at once presented before us 
but that we should have a little. Then we can comprehend it. He then read the second epistle of 
Peter 1st eh 16 to last vers & dwelt upon the 19 vers with som remarks. Ad to your faith 
knowledge &c. 

The principle of knowledge is the principle of Salvation. The Principle can be comprehended, for 
any one that cannot get knowledge to be saved will be damned. The Principl of Salvation is given 
to us through the knowledge of Jesus Christ. Salvation is nothing more or less than to triumph 
over all our enemies & put them under our feet & when we have power to put all enemies under 
our feet in this world & a knowledge to triumph over all evil spirits in the world to come then we 
are saved as in the case of Jesus. He was to reign untill he had put all enemies under his feet & 
the last enemy was death. 

Perhaps there are principle here that few men have thought of. No power can have this Salvation 
except through a tabernacle. Now in this world mankind are naturly selfish, ambitious & striving 
to excell one above another while yet some are willing to build up others as well as themselves. 
So in the other world their is a variety of spirits. Some who seek to excell, & this was the case 
with the devil. When he fell he sought for things which were unlawful. Hence he was cast down 
& it is said he drew away many with him & the greatness of his punishment is that he shall not 
have a tabernacle. This is his punishment. 

So the devil thinking to thwart the decree of God by going up & down in the earth seeking 
whome he may destroy any person that he can find that will yield to him he will bind him & take 
possession of the Body & reign there glorying in it mightily not thinking that he had got a stolen 
tabernacle & by & by some one of Authority will come along & cast him out & restore the 
tabernacle to his rightful owner. But the bevil steals a tabernacle because he has not one of his 
own. But if he steals one he is liable to be turned out of doors. 

Now their is some grand secrett here & keys to unlock the subject. Notwithstanding the apostle 
exhorts them to make their Calling Add to their faith, virtue, knowledge, temperance &c yet he 
exhorts them to make their Calling & election shure & though they had herd the audible voice 
from heaven bearing testimony that Jesus was the son of God yet he says we have a more sure 
word of Prophecy whare unto ye do well that ye take heed as unto a light shining in a dark place. 
Now wharein could they have a more sure word of prophecy than to hear the voice of God saying 
this is my Beloved Son &c? 

Now for the secret & grand _[ key. Though they might hear the voice of God & know that Jesus 
was the son of God this would be no evidence that their election & calling was made shure that 
they had part with Christ & was a Joint heir with him. They then would want that more sure word 
of Prophecy that they were sealed in the heavens & had the promise of eternal live in the 
kingdom of God. 


Pagel43 




Then having this promise sealed unto them it was as an anchor to the soul sure & steadfast. 
Though the thunders might roll, & lightnings flash & earthquakes Bellow & war gather thick 
around yet this hope & knowledge would support the soul in evry hour of trial trouble & 
tribulation. Then knowledge through our Lord & savior Jesus Christ is the grand key _[ that 
unlocks the glories & misteries of the kingdom of heaven. 

Compair this principle once with Christendom at the present day & whare are they with all their 
boasted religion piety & sacredness while at the same time they are crying out against Prophets 
Apostles, Angels Revelations Prophesyings, & visions &c? Why they are Just ripening for the 
damnation of hell. They will be damned for they reject the most glorious principle of the gospel 
of Jesus Christ & treat with disdain & trample under foot the main key that unlocks the heavens 
& puts in our possession the glories of the celestial world. Yes I say such will be damned with all 
their professed godliness. 

Then I would exhort you to go on & continue to call upon God untill you make your calling & 
election sure for yourselves by obtaining this more sure word of Prophesey & wait patiently for 
the promise untill you obtain it. Many other vary useful remarks were made on the occasion By 
Joseph the Seer. 

Elder G. A. Smith followed with a few remarks. I also followed him & meeting closed for one 
hour, & we met again. I opened meeting & spoke upon revelation obeying the Commandments 
by building the Nauvoo House. Was followed By G. A. Smith on the same subject. Elder 
Lorenzo Snow then spoke sumwhat lengthy concerning his mishion to England which was 
interesting. Then our meeting closed. 

We all rode to Lima & took supper with Calvin Bebe & while we were conversing with Br 
Joseph & Br Morley Br Joseph made the following remarks: The way to get along in any 
important matters was to gather unto yourself wise men experienced & aged men to assist in 
council in all times of trouble. Handsome men are not ell wise & strong minded men but the 
Strength of a strong minded man will Create corse features like the rough & strong bough of the 
oak. You will always discover in the first glance of a man in the outlines of his features Sumthing 
of the mind of the man. 

Excitement has almost become the essens of my life. When that dies away I feel almost lost. 
When a man is reigned up continually by excitement he becomes strong & gains power & 
knowledge. But when he relaxes for a season he looses much of his power & knowledge. 

But in all matters temporal or spiritual Preaching the gospel of Jesus Christ or in leading an army 
to Battle victory almost entirely depends upon good order & moderation. (In going to Battle 
moove slow dress up into a line & though your enemy rush upon you with fury meet them slow 
but firmly. Let not confusion or terror seize your Breast But meet them firmly & strike a heavy 
Blow & Conquer. 


Page 144 




A man can bear a heavy Burden by practice & Continueing to increase it. The inhabitants of this 
continant anciently were so constituted & were so determined & persevering either in 
righteousness or wickedness that God visited them immediately either with great Judgments or 
Blessings. But the present generation if they were going to Battle if they Got any assistance from 
God would have to obtain it By faith. 

15 Returned to Nauvoo. 6 miles. 

May 15, 16 17, 18, 19, & 20 I spent the time at the Printing Office. During the week I herd 
several lectures deliverd By Elder D. Watt upon the science of Phonography which is writing 
from Sound. His remarks appeared rational & shows an improvement in short hand in reporting 
& other writing. 

21st A large Congregation of Saint assembled at the temple & was addressed by President Joseph 
Smith upon the same suject that he spoke upon at Lima on the 14th in which was interesting in 
the hiest degree. 

Q 22 May I have had for several days past some conversation with a number of the brethren 
Concerning Building a house for myself & family. As I had spent most of my time in the 
vineyard for the last ten years & would probably spend much of my time to come in the same 
way I desired to have a house for my family to abide in & be comfortable in my absence. Several 
of the Brethren prof[fered?] to assist me to Brick & other materials & help me put it into a house. 
Br John Fidoe would superintend the building. 

So on this 22d of May we went on to the ground & staked out the ground for my house the 
dimentions of which are as follows laid out in Lot No 1 in Block 106 in the city of Nauvoo 
fronting Durfee street on the east. It is to be 32 By 20 in the clear. Two stories high built of 
Brick. 

I Cleared away my ground & Commenced digging my suller for my house. 

23rd I dug in my suller in the forenoon & * Attended a conference of the Twelve in the afternoon 
& we had an interesting time & transacted some important Business viz. we set apart Elders 
Noah Rogers, Addison Pratt, Benjamin F Grouard & Knowlton Hanks to take a mission to the 
Sandwich Islands. 

The spirit of the Lord was with us while we lade hands upon them & blessed them & we also set 
apart Elders Hedlock & J. Games to go to England Elder Hedlock to preside. The blessings that 
were pronounced upon the heads of the Brethren were written By Elder Richards. 

24 About a dozen of my neighbors turned out & helped me dig out my suller. We flung out an 
im-mence quantity of Sand. I worked myself more so than was for my good. 

25 We finished digging my suller. I also Commenced diging me a well. I made a eurbe 


Page 145 




26 Several masons & tenders came to commence my sullar wall. Several teams were drawing 
stone for me through the day. My well caved in & I had to sink a curb in it. I injured myself vary 
bad by hard work & drinking water while vary wann. 

* 

27th A rainey day. I arose sick in the morning In consequence of hard labor & being heted the 
day before. I was confined to my bed the fore part of the day. 

In the afternoon I met in council with the Twelve & first Presidency when the case of Benjamin 
Winchester was brought up on trial for improper conduct slandering the Saints in Philadelphia 
for rejecting the council of Hiram, Joseph, & the Twelve & tearing to peaces the saints instead of 
building up. Hyrum plead for mercy, Joseph for Justice, & the Twelve decided according to 
testimony, & in all we had an interesting time. 

Elder Winchester was refractory & out of order. Joseph wished the Twelve or President of the 
quorum to call the house to order. 

Several Letters were read touching the subject after which Elder Winchester made a lengthy 
speach trying to justify himself. Was followed by President Hyram Smith. Plead in behalf of 
Winchester on the side of mercy. Elder George J Adams gave his testimony against Winchester. 
Then Elder Winchester followed Adams & both spoke sever [al] times. 

Then President Joseph Smith Arose & rebuked Elder Winchester in the sharpest manner. Said he 
had a lying spirit & had lied about him & told him of many of his errors. 

After hearing the testimony Elder B Young President of the quorum of the Twelve Said he had 
made up his mind & his decision was that Elder Winchester should give up his licence & cease 
Preaching untill he should reform. 

President H Smith said he should not like to have such a decision given without another trial & 
give Elder Winchester a chance to get more testimony if he could. President Young said he 
should then prefer to have case turned over to the High Council. 

President Joseph Smith said it was not the business of the High Council. They Could not try him. 
It belonged to the Twelve & them alone for it was concerning matters abroad & not in Nauvoo. 
The high council was to trye cases that belong to the city & the Twelve to regulate the churches 
& Elders abroad in all the world & Elder Winchester case comes under the jurisdiction of the 
Twelve & them alone. President H Smith urged that the case should be put off untill tomorrow. 
President J. Smith said the case might be put off untill tomorrow at 10 oclok if it would do any 
body any good. 

President B. Young arose & spoke in the majesty of his calling & among other remarks said his 
mind was made up & the remarks of Brother Hyrum or of Br Joseph had not altered it. As for 


Pagel46 




himself he would not sit upon the case another day. He considered it an insult upon his office & 
calling as an apostle of Jesus Christ & he would not bear it. As for the rest of the Twelve [they] 
might do as they pleased. As for himself he would not do it. Benjamin Winchester has despised 
& rejected the council of the presidency & the Twelve had said they had no Jurisdiction over him 
in Philadelphia & to say whare he should go &c. But he & others will find their is power in the 
Twelve. We know through whom we have received our power & who are our benefactors & we 
are thankful for it. Benjemin Winchester has never for the first time received our council but has 
gone contrary to it. No one is safe in his hands. He calls Hiram an old granny & slanders 
evrybody. He says their is a contradiction between Hiram & the Twelve. Their is no contradiction 
between us & Hiram is there Br Hiram? (Hiram answers no.) 

After B Young closed President J. Smith Said he would give us a little Council if we saw fit to 
except it. He thought it proper for us to Silence elder Winchester take his lisence & have him 
come to Nauvoo & if he would not do that let him go out of the Church. It was then Mooved & 
seconded that Elder Winchester be silenced & give up his lisence & come with his family to 
Nauvoo which was carried unanimously. 

Br Joseph then addressed the Twelve & said that in all our councils esspecially while on trial of 
any one we should see & observe all things apper-taining to the subject & disem the spirit by 
which either party was governed. We should be in a situation to understand evry spirit & Judge 
wrighteous judgment & not be asleep. We should keep order & not let the Council be imposed 
upon by unruly Conduct. The Saints need not think because I am familiar with them & am 
playful & Cheerful that I am ignorant of what is going on. Inipuity cannot be retained in the 
Church of any kind & it will not fare well whare I am for I am detennined while I do lead the 
Church to lead them right. 

Br Joseph further remarked as concerning Elder Adams that he had given satisfactions to him 
concerning the things whareof he was accused. He had confesced all wharein he had done wrong 
& had asked for mercy & he had taken the right course to save himself that he would now begin 
new in the Church. After much instruction was given from Joseph the Council adjourned. * 

28th I spent the time at home quite unwell. 

29th 30 & 3 1 I spent my time about my Building & at Printing Office. 

June 

June 1st 1843 The quorum of the Twelve met in Council at President J. Smith Store To make 
some arangments to start on their mission to collect funds for the Nauvoo House & temple. We 
each one of us bound ourselves under bonds of two thousands Dollars for the faithful 
perfonnance of our duty in making strict returns of all property put into our hands to the trustee 
in trust. Elder Aaron Johnson was my Bondsman. 

President Joseph Smith gave me the following letter of commendation: 


Page 147 




Elder Wilford Woodruff Letter of Commendation 

To all Saints and honourable men of the earth Greetings. Dear Brethren & friends I Joseph Smith 
a servant of the Lord and Trustee in trust for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints do 
hereby certify that the bearer hereof Wilford Woodruff an Elder and one of the Twelve Apostles 
of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints has deposited with me his bond and security to 
my full satisfaction according to the resolution of the conference held in this city on the 6th day 
of April last. He therefore is recommended to all Saints & honorable people as a legal agent to 
collect funds for the purpose of Building the Nauvoo house and Temple of the Lord Confident 
that he will honor this high trust as well as ardently fulfill his Commission as a messenger of 
peace and Salvation as one of the Lords noble men I can fervently say may the Lord clear his way 
before him, and bless him and bless those that obey his teachings wherever there are ears to hear 
& hearts to feel. He is in the language of the Hebrews [see facsimile on page 239] (Hav-ra-ang 
yeesh-rau-ale) The friend of Israel and worthy to be received and entertained as a man of God: 
yea he has as had the ancient Apostle [see facsimile ] (ologos ohales) the good word : that that 
leadeth unto eternal Life. Laus Deus. Praise God. 

Wherefore brethren and friends while you hear the assurance of the integrity, fidelity, and ability 
of this servant of the living GOD, trusting that your hearts and energies will be enlivened and 
deeply engaged in the building of these houses, directed by Revelation for the Salvation of all 
Saints; and that you will not rest whare you are untill all things are prepared before you and you 
are gatherd home with the rest of Israel to meet your God; I feel strong in the belief and have a 
growing expectation that you will not withhold any means in your power that can be used to 
accomplish this Glorious work. 

finally as one that greatly desires the salvation of man; let me remind you all to strive with a 
godly zeal for virtue, holiness, and the commandments of the Lord. Be good, Be wise; be just, be 
liberal; and above all be charitable always abound-ing in all good works. And may health peace 
and the love of God our Lather and the grace of Jesus Christ our Lord be and abide with you all is 
the Sincere Prayer of 

your devoted brother & friend 

In the everlasting gospel 

JOSEPH SMITH 


City of Nauvoo 
JUNE 1st 1843 

JUNE 2 & 3 Spent the time in Building my house. 

4th Sunday I spent the time at home writing. 

5, 6, 7, 8, 9, & 10 I Spent the week labouring on my house. On Saturday we got the walls of the 


Page 148 




sullar up & put on our lower Joist & were ready for the brick work but shall be under the 
necessity of suspending operations on the house for one week for the want of Brick. 


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June 1 1th A large assembly of Saints met at the Temple & were addressed by president Joseph 
Smith. He took for the foundation of his discourse the words of Jesus to the Jews how oft would 
I have gathered you togetherd as a hen gathereth her chickens under wings But ye would not &c. 

He then asked what was the object of Gathering the Jews together or the people of God in any 
age of the world. The main object was to build unto the Lord an house whereby he Could reveal 
unto his people the ordinances of his house and glories of his kingdom & teach the people the 
ways of salvation. For their are certain ordinances & principles that when they are taught and 
practized, must be done in a place or house built for that purpose. This was purposed in the mind 
of God before the world was & it was for this purpose that God designed to gather together the 
Jews oft but they would not. It is for the same purpose that God gathers together the people in the 
last days to build unto the Lord an house to prepare them for the ordinances & endowments 
washings & anointings &c. 

One of the ordinances of the house of the Lord is Baptism for the dead. God decreed before the 
foundation of the world that that ordinance should be administered in a house prepared for that 
purpose. If a man gets the fulness of God he has to get [it] in the same way that Jesus Christ 
obtained it & that was by keeping all the ordinances of the house of the Lord. 

Men will say I will never forsake you, but will stand by you at all times. But the moment you 
teach them some of the mysteries of God that are retained in the heavens and are to be revealed 


Page 149 




to the children of men when they are prepared, They will be the first to stone you & put you to 
death. It was the same principle that crusified the Lord Jesus Christ. 

I will say something about the spirits in prision. Theire has been much said about the sayings of 
Jesus on the cross to the thief saying this day thou shalt be with me in paradise. The 
commentators or translators make it out to say Paradise. But what is Paradise? It is a modern 
word. It does not answer at all to the original that Jesus made use of. Their is nothing in the 
original in any language that signifies Paradise. But it was this day I will be with thee in the 
world of spirits & will teach thee or answer thy inquiries. The thief on the Cross was to be with 
Jesus Christ in the world of spirits. He did not say Paradise or heaven. 

The doctrin of Baptism for the dead is clearly shown in the new testament. And if the doctrin is 
not good then throw away the new testament. But if it is the word of God then let the doctrin be 
acknowledged & it was one reason why Jesus said how oft would I have gathered you (the Jews) 
together that they might attend to the ordinance of the baptism for the dead as well as the other 
ordinances, the Priesthood Revelations &c. This was the case on the day of Pentecost. These 
Blessings were poured out upon the deciples on that occasion. 

Their has been Also much said about the word Hell & the sectarian world have preached much 
about it. But what is hell? It is annother modem tenn. It is taken from hades the greek or shaole, 
the (hebrew) & the true signification is a world of spirits. 

Hades shaole paradise, spirits in prision is all one. It is a world of spirits. The righteous & the 
wicked all go to the same world of spirits. But says one I believe in one hell & one heaven. All 
are equally miserable or equally happy. But St Paul informs us of three glories & three heavens. 
He knew a man caught up to the third heavens, & Jesus said their were many mansions in my 
Fathers kingdom. 

Any man may believe Jesus Christ is good & be happy in it & yet not obey his commands & at 
last be cut down by his righteous commandments. A man of God should be endowed with all 
wisdom knowledge & understanding in order to teach & lead people. The blind may lead the 
blind & both fall into the death together. 

Their is much said concerning God the Godhead &c. The scripture says their is Gods many & 
Lords many. The teachers of the day say that the father is God the Son is God & the Holy Ghost 
is God & that they are all in one body & one God. Jesus says or prays that those that the father 
had given him out of the world might be made one in us as we are one. But if they were to be 
stuffed into one person they would make a great God. 

If I were to testify that the world was wrong on this point it would be true. Peter says that Jesus 
Christ sat on the right hand of God. Any person that has seen the heavens opened knows that 
their is three personages in the heavens holding the keys of power. As the father hath power in 
himself so the Son hath power in himself. Then the father has some day laid down his body & 
taken it again. /So he has a bo[d?]y of his own./ So has his Son a body of his own. So each one 


Page 150 




will be in their own body. 

Many of the sects cry out O I have the testimony of Jesus. I have the spirit of God. But away with 
Jo Smith. He says he is a Prophet But their is to be no Prophets nor revelations in the last days; 
But stop sir the Revelator says that the testimony of Jesus is the spirit of Prophecy. So by your 
own mouth you are condemned. 

But to the text. Why gather the people together in this place? For the same purpose that Jesus 
wanted to gather the Jews. To receive the ordinances, the blessings & the glories that God has in 
store for his Saints. And I would now ask this assembly and all the Saints if they will now build 
this house & receive the ordinances & Blessings which God has in store for you, or will you not 
build unto the Lord this house & let him pass by & bestow these blessings upon another? I pause 
for a reply. 

[ ] 

After Joseph closed Elder Cutler spoke concerning the Temple & also the Death of Elder Elias 
Higby one of the Temple Committee who Died June 8th 1843. Aged 47 years 7 months and 17 
days. At the close of the meeting President J. Smith gave out an appointment for the Rev Mr 
DeWolff an Episcopal Minister in the afternoon. 

The meeting assembled in the afternoon & the Rev Mr DeWolf deliverd a short discourse from 
Hebrews 6 ch. 1 & 2 verses. We herd nothing vary objectionable in his discourse. Of course he is 
not a mormon. 

12th I spent the day at my house. 

13th I started in company with several others to go out on the prairie to fence & plant a five acre 
lot of prairie. I had not Got far befor we broke down the reach of our waggon and all went into a 
pile together. The wheel went onto my arm & bruised it considerable but we mended up & 
continued our Journey. Went on to the prairie & made 82 rods of worm fence with stakes & 
riders & Just before I left I went into Br Cheney house to get a drink of water & his dog bit me 
through the calf of my leg vary bad. He was an ugly dog. Had bitten several persons. It made me 
vary lame. 

14th I arose in the morning abot sick. After walking about a while I went on to the bed & was 
confined to it most of the day with the pain in my leg from the bite of the dog the day before. 

151 arose in the morning quite lame with my leg. Thought of going on to the prairie to plant corn 
but it commenced raining & I returned home & spent the day writing. 

16th I went onto the Prairie & Planted com & had some conversation with Br Chena concerning 
his dog that Bit me. I informed him that I should not be satisfied unless he would kill his dog as 
he was dangerous & had bitten several persons. 


Pagel51 




17th I spent the day digging my well. 

18th Sunday I attended meeting at the Temple. Elder P Magin Preached in the fore part of the day 
much to our edifycation. The Sacrament was administered in the afternoon. 

During the evening some letters were received from Judge Adams of Springfield informing us 
that the Govomor of Missouri had made another demand for Joseph Smith at the hands of the 
Govornor of Illinois & that Govornor Ford of Illinois had issued the writ for his apprehension. 

It was on the old Missouri Persecution & in fine it is all persecution. Two messengers were 
immediately dispatched to inform President Joseph Smith of the above facts. He was absent 
about 200 miles from home. When will Missouri cease her ungodly persecutions against 
President Joseph Smith & the Saints? O Lord hasten the day when the Blood of Saints shall not 
cry from the ground in vain & when the Prophets of God shall not have to flee from the hand of 
the wicked persecutor & oppresser. 

19 I finished digging my well. Got about 4 feet of water in the rock & course gravel. Theire was a 
meeting held by a company Calling themselves labourers saying they were oppressed & 
manifested some spirit of mob & disrule & did not act in wisdom. 

20th I finished stoning my well it being about 25 feet deep. Their was also another meeting of the 
labourers. 

21, 22, 23 & 24 I spent getting materials for my house & in the printing office & writing &c. 

25 June Sunday I attended meeting at 10 oclock in the morning & Brother Lyman Wight (who 
had Just returned from a mission in the east) Arose & addressed the meeting at full length from 
the 13 ch. of 1st Corinth. Dwelt largely upon Charity showing what Charity was. That it was far 
greater than faith & hope. He took grounds to prove that charity consisted in doing that for others 
which they Could not do for themselves. For instance Jesus Christ died to Redeem the world. 

The world could not Redeem itself. This is charity. If our fore fathers & Mothers & kindred have 
died without the gospel, & we embrace the gospel in our day & generation & can redeem our 
relatives By being Baptized for them they being dead that they may have part in the first 
resurrection. Should we do this it would be charity for we should do for them what they could not 
do for themselves & this was wherein The Apostle said why then are ye baptized for the dead if 
the dead rise not? This is far greater than faith & hope. For though we might Believe /& hope/ 
our friend might Be redeemed yet if we was not Baptized for them they might remain in Hell & 
our faith & hope do them no good. But to do that for another which he can do for himself is not 
charity. Elder Wight made many other vary useful remarks in his discourse. 

In the Afternoon Elder Magin addressed the meeting. But in the midst of his discours President 
Hiram Smith came onto the Stand & requested the Masonic fraternity to meet him at the Lodge 
Room in 30 minutes. We immediately went down & a quarter could not Get into the Room. We 
then fonned a hollow square on the green. President Smith then informed us that the Sheriff of 


Page 152 




Jackson Co Missouri & Wilson of Carthage had come upon President Joseph Smith & taken him 
on surprise. Presented each of them a pistol to his breast & swore they would kill him if he made 
any resistance. Br Markham went to his assistance & they presented their pistols to him also & 
threaten his life but he approached them to knock them down. They again pointed their pistols to 
Joseph Breast & said they would kill him if Markham approached them & to save the life of 
Joseph he stoped. 

They then took Joseph into a carrage & started for Missouri. They got about 10 miles & they 
were stoped by the inhabitants who swore they should not carry Joseph Smith any further without 
giving him the Chance of law & the writ of Habeas Corpus & they took out a writ against the 
Sherriff Reynolds & Wilson of Carthage &c & they now wanted to get a company to go to 
Joseph to see that He had his rights & Br Hyram Called for volunteers & their was two or three 
hundred came out to go. The whole city flocked together. They made a choice of Such as they 
wished. General Laws & Rich went with a company of Near 100 men on horsback and about 75 
or 100 on Board of the Maid of Iowa. The horsmen went by Land. Then those on the Boat went 
down the River to the mouth of the Illinois & up that river to Peoria. The horse company left the 
city abot 8 oclok in the evening & the Boat untill next morning. * 

26 Their was several Natives of the Potawate-mys [that went] through Nauvoo. Called to see the 
Nauvoo House & Temple. Wanted to talk. Had no interpeter that could interpet much. They 
spoke about their great father great spirit & c. They manifested a desire to see the Temple & the 
city. Said they were hungry. I took them home & fed them. Gave them some trinklets & c. 

27th I drew home about 1 1 Bushels of lime for my house. 

28th I spent the day walking about town. Herd rumours about a writ for P. P. Pratt L Wight & 
others to take them too Mo. I found them armed & guarded against any kidnaping. 

29th A vary wann day. I went into a Brick kiln & flung out about 7 thousand Brick for my house 
which was drawn to it. I nearly melted myself & was exeeding weary at night. Mr Foster had 
arived home & said that President Joseph Smith would be in Nauvoo next day with Reynolds & 
Wilson who had taken him. 

{June 30th 1843} Early in the morning I went to the Court room. Assisted Dr Richards to arange 
the seats to prepare the room for the arival of Gen Smith & the company. At about 1 oclock PM 
the citizens of Nauvoo went out on foot horsback & in many Carriages to meet the Prophet viz 
Gen Smith & And when they did meet their was a seen of Great Joy & with a band of music & a 
great multitude they followed him to his own house, & Reynolds of Missouri & Wilson ol 
Carthage who had illegally taken Joseph Smith at the force of arms looked as though they had 
had the ague. They had treated Joseph Smith shamfully deprived him of the wright of Hebeas 
Corpus & of speaking to any friend & intended to run him into Missouri as soon as possible. 

But the Lord raised him up friends & deliverd him from their hands or in other words brought 
them all together to Nauvoo & it was truly a rejoiceing time to the Saints to see him again. 


Page 153 




Reynolds & Wilson were both taken with a writ for fals impris-ionment though their intention 
was to have taken Joseph Smith's life by taking him to Missouri to be destroyed. Yet Joseph 
Smith heaped Cowles of fire upon their head by treating them well setting them to the head of his 
table & giving them the best he had served unto them by his own wife the vary woman they had 
refused to see her husband as he was taken from her by the force of Arms unlawfully. 

After dining they all repaired to the Court Room whare the Municipal Court of the City of 
Nauvoo sat & Joseph Smith was deliverd into their hands for trial & as for Reynolds & Wilson 
they certainly did look sheepish for they were guilty & had done wrong. 

President Smith got onto a waggon & said to the multitude (before he went to court) I am out of 
the hands of the Missourians thank God, & thanked the people for their kindness & love to him 
& said I will again address you at the grove near the temple at 4 oclock. After introducing the 
subject to the court he said he had an appointment to speak to the people & he wish the privilege. 
The court adjourned untill next morning at 8 oclok. President Joseph midst of about seven 
thousand Saints & the result is as follows: 

The following is a synopsis of the address deliverd by President Joseph Smith to the citizens of 
Nauvoo June 30th 1843. 

1 require attention. I discoverd what the emotions of the people were on my arival to this city, & 1 
have come here to say how do you do to all parties & 1 do now say How do you do at this time. 1 
meet you with a heart full of gratitude to Almighty God & 1 presume you all feel the same. I 
hardly know how to express my feelings. 1 feel as strong as a Gient. 1 pulled sticks with the men 
Coming along & 1 pulled up the strongest man theire was on the road with one hand & two could 
not pull me up & 1 continued to pull untill 1 pulled them to Nauvoo. I will pass from that subject 
then. 

There has been great excitement in the country & since those men took me I have been cool & 
dispassionate through the whole: thank God I am now in the hands of the Municipal Court of 
Nauvoo & not in the hands of Missourians. 

It has been discussed by the great & wise men lawyiers &c. O your Powers & legal tribunals are 
not to be sanctioned & here we will [not] make it lawful to drag away inocent men from their 
families & friends & have them unlawfully put to death by ungodly men for ther religion. 

Relative to our Charter courts right of Hebeas Corpus &c we have all power: And if any man 
from this time forth says any thing contrary, cast it into his teeth. Their is a secret in this; if their 
is not power in our Charter and Courts, then there is not power in the State of Illinois, nor in the 
Congress /or Constitution/ of the United States. For the United States gave unto Illinois her 
constitution & Charter & Illinois gave unto Nauvoo her Charters which have ceded unto us our 
vested rights & has no right or power to take them from us. All the power their was in Illinois she 
gave to Nauvoo. And any man that says to the contrary is a fool. 


Page 154 




I want you to learn O Israel what is for the happiness & peace of this city & people. If our 
enemies are detennined to oppress us & deprive us of our rights & privileges as they have done 
& if the Authorities that be on the earth will not assist us in our rights nor give us that protection 
which the Laws & Constitution of the United States & of this State garrentees unto us: then we 
will claim them from higher power from heaven & from God Almighty & the Constitution &c. 1 
SWEAR I will not deal so mildly with them again for the time has come when forbearance is no 
longer a virtue. And if you are again taken unlawfully you are at liberty to give loose to Blood 
and Thunder. But act with Almighty Power. 

But good luck for me as it always has been in evry time of trouble. Friends though strangers were 
raised up unto me & assisted me. The time has come when the veil is torn of from the State of 
Illinois & they have deliverd me from the State of Missouri: friends that were raised up unto me 
would have spilt their Blood for me to have delivered me. Then I told them not. I would be 
delivered By the power of God & Generalship & I have brought them to Nauvoo & treated them 
kindly. I have had the privilege of rewarding them good for evil. They took me unlawfully treated 
me rigorously, strove to deprive me of my rights & would have run me to Missouri to have been 
murdered if providence had not interposed: but now they are in my hands. I took them into my 
house set them at the head of my table & set the best before them my house afforded & they were 
waited upon by my wife whome they deprived of seeing me when I was taken. 

I shall be discharged by the Municipal Court of Nauvoo. Were I before any good tribunal I 
should be discharged. But Befor I will bear this unhallowed persecution any longer I will spill my 
Blood. Their is a time when bearing it longer is a sin. I will not bear it longer. I will spil the last 
drop of Blood I have and all that will not bear it longer say AH. And the cry of AH rung 
throughout the Congregation. 

We must stop paying the lawyiers money. For I have learned they dont know any thing. For I 
know more than they all. Whosoever believeth that there is power in the Charters of Nauvoo 
shall be saved. He that believeth not shall not come here. If a lawyer shall say their is more power 
in other places & Charters than in Nauvoo believeth it not. I have converted this canditate for 
congress Mr Walker. I suppose when I see him Converted I will vote for him & not before. I have 
been with these lawyers & they have treated me well. But I am here in Nauvoo & the Missourian 
to & when they will get out I dont know perhaps when some others may. 

However you may feel about the high hand of oppression, I wish you to restrain your hand from 
violence /against these men who arestd me/. My word is at stake. A hair of their heads shall not 
be hanned. 

My life is pledged to carry out this great work. I know how readily you are to do right. You have 
done great things & manifested your love in flying to my assistance on this occasion. I could not 
have done better myself. And I Bless you in the name of the Lord with all Blessings. May you not 
have to suffer as you have heretofore. I know the Almighty will bless all good men. He will bless 
you: and the time has come when their shall be such a flocking to the standard of Liberty as never 


Pagel55 




has been Nor never shall be hereafter. 


What an erie of things has commenced. Shall the Prophecys be esstablished by the Swords? Shall 
we allways bear? NO. Will not the State of Missouri stay her hand and in her unhallowed 
persecutions against the Saints? If not, I restrain you not any longer. I say in the name of Jesus 
Christ I this day turn the key _[ that opens the heavens to restrain you no longer from this time 
forth. I will lead you to battle & if you are not afraid to die & feel disposed to spill your Blood in 
your own defence you will not offend me. Be not the aggressor. Bear untill they strike on the one 
cheek. Offer the other & they will be sure to strike that. Then defend yourselves & God shall bear 
you off. 

Will any part of Illinois say we shall not have our rights? Treat them as strangers & not friends & 
let them go to Hell. Say some we will mob you. Mob & be damned: If I [am] under the necessity 
of giving up our charted rights, privileges & freedom which our fathers fought bled & died for & 
which the constitution of the United States & this State gar-rentee unto us, I will do it at the point 
of the Bayonet & Sword. 

Many Lawyiers contend for those thing which are against the rights of men & I can ownly excuse 
them because of ther ignorance. Go forth & Advocate the laws & rights of the people ye 
lawyiers. If not dont get into my hands or under the lash of my tongue. 

Lawyiers say the powers of the Nauvoo Charters are dangerous. But I ask is the constitution of 
the United States or of this State dangerous? No. Neither are the charters granted unto Nauvoo by 
the legislator of Illinois dangerous & those that say they are are fools. We have not our rights. 
Those which the constitution of the U.S.A. grant & which our Charters grant we have not 
enjoyed unmolested. Missouri & all wicked men will raise the hugh & cry against us and are not 
satisfyed. 

But how are you going to help yourselves? What will mobocrats do in the midst of this people? If 
mobs come upon you any more here, dung your gardings with them. But says one you will get up 
excitement. We will get up no excitement except what we can find an escape from. We will rise 
up Washington like & break of the wait that bears us down & we will not be mobed. 

To give you an account of my Journey, I will give you an anecdote that may be pleasing. A few 
day before I was taken I rode with my wife through a Neighborhood to visit some friends & I said 
to Mrs Smith here is a good people. I felt this by the spirit of God. The next day I was in their 
hands a prisioner with Wilson who Said as he drove up ha ha ha By God we have got the 
prophet. He gloried much in it But he is now our prisioner. 

When Reynolds of Missouri & Wilson of Carthage came to take me the first salutation was 
(instead of taping me on the shoulder & saying you are my pris-ioner) with two Cocked pistols to 
my head God damn you I will shoot you. I will shoot you God damn you I will shoot you nearly 
50 times first & last I asked them what they wanted to shoot me for. If you make any resistance. 

O vary well says 1 1 have no resistance to make. 


Pagel56 




They then dragged me away & while on the road I asked them by what authority they did these 
things. They said by a writ from the Govomors of Missouri & Illinois. I then told them I wanted a 
writ of Habeas Corpus. The reply was God damn you you shant have it. I told a man to Go to 
Dixon & get me a writ of Habeas Corpus. The reply was by Willson. God dam you you shant 
have it. I will shoot you. I sent for a lawyier to come. One came & Reynolds shut the door in his 
face & would not let me speak to him & said again God damn you I will shoot you. I turned to 
him opened my bosom & told him to shoot away & I did it freequently. I told Mr Reynolds that I 
would have council to speak to & the Lawyers came to me & I got a writ of Habeas Corpus for 
myself & got a writ for Reynolds & Wilson for unlawful procedings towards me & cruel 
treatment. They Could not get out of town that night. I pleged my honor to my council that the 
Nauvoo Charter had power to investigate the subject & we came to Nauvoo by common consent 
& I am now a prisioner of higher authority. Yes higher Authority before yourselves. 

The Charter expressly says that the City Council shall have power to enact all laws for the benefit 
& convenience of said City not contrary to the Constitutions of the United States or of this State 
& the City ordinance says the Municipal Court shall have power to give writs of Habeas Corpus 
arising under the ordinances of the City. Their is nothing but what we have power over excepted 
restricted by the constitution of the United States or of this state. It is in accordance wih the 
constitution of the U.S.A. 

But says the mob what dangerous powers. But the constitution of the United States nor of this 
state is not dangerous against good men but bad men the breakers of the law. So with the laws of 
the country & so with the laws laws of Nauvoo. They are dangerous to mobs but not good men 
that wish to keep the law. 

We do not go out of Nauvoo to disturb any body or any city town or place. Why need they be 
troubled about us? Let them not meddle with our affairs but let us alone. After we have been 
deprived of our rights & privileges as citizenship driven from town to town place to place state to 
state with the sacrifice of our homes & lands & our Blood been shed & many murdered & all this 
becaus of our religion because we worship Almighty God according to the dictates of our own 
consience. Shall we longer bear these cruelties which have been bearing upon us for the last ten 
years in the face of heaven & in open violation of the constitution & laws of these United States 
& of this State? May God forbid. I will not bear it. If they take away my rights I will fight for my 
rights, manfully & Righteously untill I am used up with Blood & thunder sword & pistol. We 
have done nothing against law or right. 

As touching our City Charter & laws their is a secret in it. What is it? Our laws go behind the 
writ & investigate the subject ie of Habeas Corpus while other laws do not go behind the writ. 
You speak of Lawyiers, I am a Lawyier to But the Almighty God has taught me the principle of 
law & the true meaning of the writ of Habeas Corpus is to defend the Innocent & investigat the 
subject. Go behind the writ & if the fonn of a writ is wright that is issued against an innocent 
man He should not be dragged to another state & there put to death or in jeapordy life or limb 


Page 157 




because of prejudice when he is innocent. The benefits of the constitution & law is for all alike & 
the great [Ejloheem God has given me the privilege of having the benefits of the constitution & 
the writ of Habeas Corpus & I am bold to ask for this privilege this day & to ask you to carry out 
this privilege principle. And all who are in favor of carrying out this great principle make it 
manifest by raising the right hand & their was a sea of hands A universal vote. Here is truly the 
Committy of the whole. 

In speaking of my Journey to Nauvoo I will relate a circumstance. When Mr Cyrus Walker first 
came to me they said I should not speak to any man & they would shoot any man that should 
speak to me. An old man came up & said I should have council & said he was not afraid of their 
pistols & they took me from him, & I had an opportunity to have killed him but I had no 
temptation to do it to him nor any other man, my worst enemy not even Boggs. In fact he would 
have more hell to live in the reflection of his past life than to die. My freedom commenced from 
the time the old man came to me & would talk to me. We came direct from Papa grove to 
Nauvoo. We got our writ directed to the nearest court having authority to try the case & we came 
to Nauvoo. 

It did my soul good to see your feelings & love manifest towards me. I thank God that I have the 
honor to lead so virtuous & honest a people to be your leader & lawyier as Moses to the children 
of Israel. Hosannah Hosannah Hosannah Hosannah to the name of the Most High God. I 
commend you to his grace & may the Blessings of heaven rest upon you in the name of Jesus 
Christ Amen. 

Furthennore if Missouri continues her warfare & continues to Issue her writs against me & this 
people unlawfully & unjustly as they have done & our rights are trampled upon & they under 
take to take away my wrights I sware with uplifted hands to Heaven I will spill my Blood in its 
defence. They shall not take away our rights, & if they dont stop leading me by the nose I will 
lead them by the nose & if they dont let me alone I will turn up the world. I will make war. 

When we shake our own bushes we want to ketch our own fruit. The Lawyiers themselves 
acknowledge that we have all power granted us in our Charters that we Could ask for, that we 
had more power than any other court in the state for all other courts were restricted while ours 
was not & I thank God Almighty for it & I will not be rode down to Hell by the Missourians any 
longer, & it is my privilege to speak in my own defence & appeal to your honor. 

After this interesting & decisive address was deliverd in the presence of about seven or eight 
thousand the multitude dispersed & went to their homes. 

July 

July 1st 1843 The Municipal Court opened at 8 oclock AM. President Joseph Smith made some 
remarks to the lawyiers his Council As he was a prisioner before the Court. President Joseph 
Smith then called upon Hiram Smith, Brigham Young P P Pratt Lyman Wight & Sidney Rigdon 
who were duly sworn & gave in their testimony, which occupied most of the day. They went 


Pagel58 




through the whole seene of the persecution from Jackson county to the time of their expulsion 
from the State by force of Annes & it was Certainly the most heart rending seene or rehearsal of 
it that ever saluted the ears of any tribunal in a cifilized government. It would have disgraced an 
arab or Hotentot. 

Not ownly theft, Arson, Burgalry, prisons Chains, expulsion rape & Murder were practiced upon 
the Saints without any redress. But even President Joseph Smith with his companions in prision 
loaded with chains were FED with nothing for FIVE Days in succession but the Flesh of their 
OWN BRETHREN which was actually cooked & given to them to eat & while hearing this part of 
the testimony my Blood boiled within & the spirit of war rested upon me for the space of two 
days. The Lawyiers were shocked to the soul. Each one made a speach at the close of the 
testimony & they exhorted us to stand for our rights. Stand or fall sink or swim live or die the 
whole testimony will be published to the world in pamphlet form & probably other wise & will 
stand as a history to future generations of the unparelled persecution of the State of Missouri 
against the Saints of the last days. 

July 2d Sunday Met at the grove near the temple. A large Congregation assembled & was 
addressed in an interesting manner by Elder O Hyde from the 3 ch. of the Epistle of John the 
Divine 2, 3 & 4 verses & said much to the edifycation of the people. 

After elder Hyde Closed, Mr Walker & three other Lawyers spoke in rotation & upheld President 
Joseph Smith in his procedings & spoke of the unlawful conduct of his enemies. 

July 3d A special conference of elders was Called & one or two appointed to go to each county in 
the State of Illinois. An address was deliverd to the Elders By President Rigdon who made some 
useful remarks. Among others he Said, all that greatness consisted in in public speaking with any 
man was in delivering a chain of Ideas that the man had well matured speaking of things that he 
knew & not of things that he did not know. For should he speak of things he does not know he 
would set a trap to be caught in. But when a person understands the subject thorougholy upon 
which he is speaking he knows how to defend it. This is all the greatest man on earth can do is to 
tell the truth & speak of things he knows. The Elders were also addressed by Elder B Young. 

JULY 4th 1 843 * As the Romans took particular notice of any singular event as ominous of good 
or evil so I will record a smal 1 circumstance that took place in my house this morning. Soon 
after I arose in the morning on this 4th Day of July my Sword while hanging in its usual place 
unsheathed of itself & the scabbard droped upon the floor leaving the bear blade suspended from 
the peg upon which it hung. 

As this is the 4th we call it a happy day for Nauvoo. At a vary early hour people began to 
assemble at the grove & at 1 1 o clock near 13,000 thousand persons had congregated, who were 
addressed in a vary able and appropriat manner by Elder Orson Hyde lately from Palestine, and 
who has recently been appointed on a mission to St Petersburgh, Russia. A Constant accession ol 
Numbers Swelled the Congregation to 15,000 as near as could be estimated & at 2 oclock they 
were again addressed by Elder Parley P. Pratt in a masterly discourse followed By President 


Page 159 




Joseph Smith upon the subject of the late arest & persecution who clearly vindicated his 
innocence & showed the Corruption of his pursueers in a tru light. 

Three Steamers arived in the afternoon— one from St Louis one from Quincy & one from 
Burlington —bringing altogether about 900 visiting ladies and gentlemen to our city. On the 
arival of each boat they were escorted to the stand by the Nauvoo band and the escort Companies 
whare convenient seats were provided & whare they were welcomed by the firing of cannon 
which brought to our minds the last words of the patriot Jefferson:— Let this day be Celebrated by 
the firing of Cannon &c. The legion was not out. 

The following is a synopsis of the Address of President Joseph Smith while speaking in his own 
defence before about 15,000 souls: 

If the people will give ear a moment I will address them, with few words in my own defence as 
touching my arest. In the first place I will state to these that Can hear me that I never spent more 
than six months in Missouri except while in prison. While I was there I was at work for the 
support of my family. I never was a prisioner of war during my stay for I had not made war. I 
never took a pistol, a gun, or sword & the much that has been said on this subject is false. I have 
been willing to go before any governor Judge or tribunal whare justice could be done & have the 
subject investigated. I could not have committee treason in that state while there. I had no 
controll any whare in temporal things while there but in spiritual. I was driven from that state by 
force of arms under the extenninating order of Govomor Boggs. 

I have never commited treason. The people know vary well I have Been a peaceable Citizen but 
their has been a great hugh & Cry about Jo Smith Govornor Bogs being shot. No crime can be 
done but what it is laid to Jo Smith. Here I was again dragged to the United States Court, & was 
cleared & now it comes again. But as often as God sees fit for me to suffer I am ready. But I am 
as innocent of these crimes as the Angels in heaven. I am not an enemy to mankind. I am a friend 
to Mankind. I am not an enemy to Missouri nor any governors or people. 

As to the military station I hold & the cause of my holding it is as follows. When we came here 
the State required us to bear anns & do military duty according to law, & as the Church had just 
been driven from the State of Missouri & robed of all their property & arms they were poor & 
destitute of annes: They were liable to be fined for not doing duty when they had not arms to do 
it with. They Came to me for advice. I advised them to organize themselves into independant 
companies, & demand anns of the State. This they did. 

Again their were many Elders having licence to preach which by law exhonorated them from 
Military duty but the officers would not release them on this ground. I then told the Saints that 
though I was clear from Military duty by law in consequence of lameness in one of my legs, yet I 
would set them the example & would do duty myself. They then said they were willing to do 
duty if they Could be fonned into an independant company & I could be at their head & upon this 
ground came the Nauvoo Legion & I holding the office of Lieutenant General not that I seek for 
power. 


Page 160 




And with regard to elections some say we all vote together & vote as I say. But I never tell any 
man how to vote or who to vote for. But I will show you how we have been situated by bringing 
a comparison. Should their be a Methodist Society here & two candidates running for office: One 
says if you will vote for me & put me in [as] governor I will exterminate the Methodist take away 
their charters &c. The other candidate says if I am Govornor I will give all an equal privilege. 
Which would the Methodist vote for? Of course they would vote in mass for the candidate that 
would give them their rights; thus it has Been with us. 

Joseph Duncan said if the people would elect him he would exterminate the Mormons & take 
away their Charters. As to Mr Ford he made no such threats, but manifested a spirit in his 
speaches to give every man their rights; hence the Church universally voted for Mr Ford & he 
was elected govor-nor. But he has issued writs against me the first time the Missourians made a 
demand for me & this is the second one he has issued for me which has caused me much trouble 
& expense. 

President Smith Also rehearsed the account of his being taken By Reynolds & Wilson & the 
unlawful treatment he received at their hands. The multitude gave good attention & much 
prejudice seemed to be removed. 

July 5th My masons got together to commence laying Brick on my house. But our door & 
window frames not being made part of them went home but some staid but performed but little 
work. 

6th I had an interview with Br Fidoe who has taken the job of Building my house. He informed 
[me] the fraims were not yet made & thought it best to dismiss the masons for a season. We did 
so & I prepaired myself in the afternoon to start on my mission for the east next morning. Got my 
trunk & things ready &c & sent them up to A Morrisons landing &c. 

* July 7th I Arose early in the morning laid hands upon Mrs Woodruff & Blessed her & our 
daughter Sarah Emma Phebe Amelia & went to Morrison landing & spent most of the day at Br 
L Wights. But at 3 o-clock P.M we left A Morrisons wharf on Board of steem Boat Rapids in 
company with Elders B. Young G. A Smith, E P Magin & his Sister. It is a plesent day & we are 
all in good spirit. Fare to St Louis is $2.50. We arived in Warsaw in two hours & a half & at 
Quincy in five & three quarters of an hour. Sister Magin stoped at Quincy. 

8th We arose in the morning all well. Arived at the mouth of the Illinois River a quarter Befor 10 
o-clock making 19 = 25 hours & 25 minutes from Nauvoo. We arived at St Louis at 3 oclock 
P.M making Just 24 hours from Nauvoo. Distance 200 m. 

I Called upon Mr Wm. Philips No 54 Main street St Louis, & Bought of him the following Bill 
of paper for Taylor & Woodruff in co. 

$5 

$3.50 


4 Reams of printing paper 24x38 
4 Reams of " paper 23x33 


Pagel61 


$ 20.00 

$14.00 




paid cash on the above paper 


$34.00 


The following is the Bill of paper & Ink Bought By Milliken for Taylor & Woodruff of Mr 
Philips: 


4 Reams of Paper 24x38 $5 

2 Reams " " 23x33 $3.50 

one keg of Ink 
Drayage 


paid Cash 
Due 


$ 20.00 

$7.00 

$6.60 

.25 

$33.85 

$20.50 

$13.35 


The whole amount Due Mr Philips including the above $13.35 
is to July 8th $88.35 

I Bought a keg of 6 gal of Molasses 28 ct $1.68 & shipped it with my Paper on Board of the 
Ospray. 

I Received $5 of E. P. Magin for the Facsim-ilees $5. 

We called at Mr H. C. Comers watch Maker No 4 Second St St Louis. 


We went on board of the Lancer bound for Cincinnati & engaged our passge to Cincinnati for $5 
each. We spent the night on board of her lying in st Louis. 

9th We left St Louis at half past 9 oclok AM. We passed the City with full head of steem. It was 
quite a Cold rainy morning. We passed the shot towers about 6 miles below the City on a steep 
Bluff. We passed the rock tower at 6 oclock P M. 

10th We entered the mouth of the Bold Ohio about 2 o-clok in the morning. Distance from St 
Louis to the mouth of the Ohio 180 miles. We reached Padukah at 8 o-clok & Smithland at 10 
oclock at the mouth of the Cumberland R. We passed the Rok Cave & had a fair view of it. 

1 1th A Cold Rainy day. We felt quite unwell esspecially Elder Magin. The River rose during the 
night. 

12th A Cold raw morning. We passed Albany la at 7 oclok. When we arived at Louisville at the 
foot of the canal Elder Young & myself walked into the City of Louisville about 2 miles. 

We called & visited the man Called the Kentucky Baby By the name of [ ] Porter. His hight 

was 7 feet 7 inches. A thin spare man. His wait was 250 lb. We spent about 2 hours in Louisville. 

I visited a paper ware house & prised their paper & could obtain good printing paper for 10 cts. 
per lb. & good Book paper from 12 to 20 cts per lb. 

13th We passed Vevey at 8 oclock. We had a plesant view of President Harrison’s Tomb as we 


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passed along. We Reached Cincinnati at half past 5 oclock. Spent the night at Br Timothy Bakers 
at Elm street Between fifth & sixth st. Elder Smith was quite sick through the night. I dreamed 
that Br Joseph was taken with another writ to be tried in Illinois. Elder B Young also dreamed 
that we were called home. The distance from the mouth of the Ohio to Cincinnati is 538 miles. 

14th We had an interview in the morning with Br Hedlock & Jennan & spent the day walking 
about the city. Elder Grant informed me that he had sent a Barrel of Plaster to Br Taylor to 
Nauvoo. We all wrote letters to our wives & sent them By Br Far who was going direct to 
Nauvoo. 

July 15th Saturday I Called upon Mr J. W. Eley in Cincinnati & carried him the deeds & papers 
from E Robinson of Nauvoo & Mr Eley excepted them & fulfilled his contract by Doing up the 
goods in Boxes & shiped them to A Johnson in care of A. Morrison Nauvoo. He sent 30 Reams 
of paper for the Times. His price in trade was $5.50 for Cash $4.50. He forwarded 20 Reams for 
the neighbor trade. Price was $4 for Cash $3.00. After seeing the goods Boxed up & shiped on 
Board of the Lancer to St Louis at 20 cts. per cwt. I went in company with Elder B. Young to Br 
Piews & spent the night. 

16th Sunday We met at a privat house in the city with the Saints & I spoke to the people & was 
followed By Elder B Young. This is the first time that I ever attempted to preach in Cincinnati. 

At the close of the meeting Elder Young & myself went on to the ferry Boat & crossed the River 
& took dinner with Br Derby. 

We then took each of us a horse that had been brought to us & rode 8 miles back into Kentucky 
over the hills streams rocks & valleys to Mr Colbertsons who had professed to be a saint & an 
Elder in the Church but had lost his faith if he ever had any as had also Br Youtsey in the Same 
neighbourhood. They had got their eye fixed more upon Strayburys & rasp-burrys (as they were 
cultivating 10 or 15 acres of them for market) than they had upon the mark or the prize of the 
high calling in Christ Jesus. We found they had neither of them any faith in the work. Theire was 
an appointment given out for us to preach at 4 oclock but we did not arive untill it was to late. 

We had a good supper of red raspburys. I took a severe cold during the day & evening & was 
about Sick. Distance 10 m. 

17th I felt quite unwell in the morning with my cold. We went down to the Raspbury patch with 
Mr James Colbertson & saw the manner they Cultivated & picked the buries. After Conversing a 
while with him we left him & started back for Cincinnati on foot. 

We had got about half way, when we were over-taken by Br Collins Penberton who had been to 
kirt-land & was returning home. Was within two miles of his house & wished us to go home with 
him & spend the night. We did so, & found him in a valley a little like the valley of Peidmont. 
Their was three or four families with him that had come up with Elder Blakesley & all got out of 
money on the way & they had gone up in that valley near the licking river to Cut wood to Boat 
down to Cincinnati Market to Get money to go to Nauvoo. They all appeared glad to see us. We 
had a meeting in the evening & Blessed their Children, 8 in No. Elder Blakesley had got money 


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& gone on to Nauvoo. Had just arived when we left. We had a hard Shower of rain during the 
evening & night which made it much Cooler. 

18th We left the valley of Peidmont or Monnon-town as the Elder Called it & we took a skiff in 
company with Br Pemberton & rode down the licking river & crossed to the city of Cincinnati. 
Called upon Br Maryweather who has the Charge of the Sale of Brandworths Pills on 3d st 
Between Walnut & Main. She offerd us $1 each. I told her to give it to Elder Smith & she did so. 
10 m. 

19 I took canal packet in company with Elder B Young. Rode to Lockland. Fare 50 cts each 
$1.00. Stoped & spent the night (upon a pinch) with Mr David Martin. He had been baptized into 
the Church but was fearful & unbelieveing. We had the privilege however of spending the night 
with him & lying upon a patent Bedstead upon which it is said that neither a Bedbug or flea will 
stay on it. But the reason why yet remains a secret. He did not ask us our names untill we left 
next morning. Distance 10 m. 

20th We walked 2 miles to Br Jackson who was Cradling wheat. We went with him to his house. 
He gave us a sovreign to assist us on our Journey. We then walked back to the city of Cincinnati 
& we were weary with our Journey making 15 miles we had walked. 14 mi. 

21^-1 wrote 3 Letters one to E Robinson one to Elias Smith & one to Mrs P W. Woodruff all of 
which I sent By Mr Holdridge. 

22d Saturday We left Cincinnati at 1 1 oclok on board of the Adolade for Pittsburg. 

23 Sunday A foggy morning passed by Kentucky to Virginia. Spent the night on a sand bar. 

24th Got of a sand bar at half past 7 oclok. Got along well through the day. I dreamed at night of 
seeing Mrs Woodruff & Elder Cordon told me that I had a fine Child. I saw Br Joseph dressed in 
Military. Thought their was to be a meeting in Nauvoo &c. 

25 Got along well through the day considering the low water. Susan Cornelia Woodruff was born 
at half past 1 1 oclock. 

26th Passed Wheeling. Stoped at Wellsville. Br Little & wife stoped here. We passed a snag Boat 
employed by [the] government to keep the river Clear of Snags. We run onto a sand bar at night 
& remained untill morning. 

27th As the water was so low we could not get up the river we stoped near Beaver. Passed 
through the town to Bridgwater. Here we took stage for Pittsburgh. 28 miles. On the way we 
stoped at Econemy the town founded by Mr Wrap. It is esstab-lished sumthing upon the 
principles of Shakerism. They raised much grain fruit & make wine from the pure juse of the 
grape. We drank a glass of it which was vary nice. We arived at Pittsburgh at 6 oclock. Distance 
from Cincinnatti to Pittsburgh 469 1/2 miles. 


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We soon found Br Small who informed us that there was a meeting at the Temperance Hall By 
the Church of Latter Day Saints. We went to the Hall & about the first persons we saw was Elder 
H C Kimball & O. Pratt & we herd the voice of Elder J E Page preaching. He Hammered the 
sects during his discourse, & at the close He informed the people of our arival which made six of 
the quorum of the Twelve in the city. We were all truly glad to strike hand with each other once 
more. I spent the night with Br [ ] Beck. 

28th We spent the fore part of the day walking about. We met in council at 2 oclok at Br Richard 
Savorry. Elder B Young enquired concerning the procedings of the Twelve at cincijati. Found 
that Elders H C Kimball, O Pratt & J. E Page Held a Conference organized the Church & left for 
Pittsburgh. Elder Page stayed & in few days disunnoled what had been done & reorganized the 
Church but it left the church in no better situation. Elder Young reproved Elder Page some for 
undoing alone what three of the quorum had done together. He also spoke of the instruction that 
Br Joseph spoke of ie. to be gentle & mild in our teaching & not to Battle the Sects any more at 
present but win the affections of the people. We had a good time together. 

We met in the evening at Jeremiah Cooper's house. I opened the meeting by Prayer. Elder B 
Young arose & addressed the Saints in a vary interesting manner & tried to instill into their 
minds to be prepared to Harken to the word of the Lord & obey his commandments & obey the 
things that the prophet tells us to do & was followed By Elders H C Kimball & G. A. Smith who 
bore testimony of the work of God. I spent the night at Br James McDaniel's. 

Pittsburgh resembles the English Cities in Consequence of their burning so much Stone Cole 
which covers the Cities with smoke soot & Blackness. Its Population is 35,000. It has 120 
preachers of the Gospel, 95 Churches & 21 Denominations, & It contains a Church of Latter Day 
Saints Numbering 75. 

29th I spent the Day at Br McDowell writing & reading. We met in the evening at Br Savorys to 
teach the Elders. Elder B Young first addressed the meeting. ? The following are some of the 
principles taught the Elders By Elders Young: 

He says relative to government that A man should in the first place preside over himself, his 
passions, his person bring himself into subjection to the Law of God, then Preside over his 
Children & his wife in wrighteouness. Then he will be capable of Presiding over a branch of the 
Church. But many Elders are contending about presiding over Churches when they are not 
capable of presiding over themselves or the least child they have. 

Again the first Principle of our cause & work is to understand that their is a prophet in the 
Church & that he is at the head of the Church on Earth. Who called Joseph Smith to be a 
prophet? Did the people or God? God & not the people Called him. Had the people gatherd 
together and appointed one of ther number to be a Prophet He would have been accountable to 
the people but inasmuch as he was called of God & not the people he is accountable to God & 
the Angel that committed the Gospel to him & not to any man on earth. The Twelve are 


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accountable to the Prophet & his council & not to the church for the course they persue & we 
have learned to go & do as the Prophet tells us to do. 

30th Sunday Six of the quorum of the Twelve met at Temperance Hall in Pittsburgh with the 
Saints. Elder G. A. Smith opened the meeting by prayer. Elder W. Woodruff Addressed the 
people bore testimony of the work & spoke the things that were given by the spirit of God. 
Among other things said that the Church of God was organized with Prophets & Apostles, but 
what is the use of Prophets & Apostles if their is not to be revelations given & work for the 
apostles to do? They certainly are not needed if the work of Prophets & Apostles are not to be 
received. But the vary Idie of those offices exhisteing is a proof of Revelation & gifts &c. 

I was followed by Elder G A Smith who also bore testimony of the work of God & among other 
things said that whenever _[ God sent a witness or messenger to deliver a message to the 
inhabitants of the earth he does not require that messenger to prove the truth of his assertion but 
deliver his message as God has commanded him. 

In the after part of the day, Elder J. E. Page addressed the meeting & bore testimony of the work 
& was followed by Elder O. Pratt who reasoned soundly upon the prophesyes. 

In the evening at early candlelight the meeting was addressed by Elder H. C. Kimball who gave 
some of his experiance & bore testimony to the work of the Lord much to our edifycation. He 
was followed by Elder B Young who also bore testimony to the work of the Lord and among the 
many remarks he made he argued in the following manner: 

Why do the people oppose the gifts & graces? If a man Can get faith by the power of God & the 
gift of the Holy Gost so as to lay hands upon his wife & Children or friends when they lie sick & 
languishing nigh unto death & Command the fever or disease or the power of the destroyer or 
even death itself to depart to cease its work, to be still & the person is relieved I ask what harm is 
their in all this? Or if a man by faith & humility before God can get the testimony of Jesus Christ 
& prophecy of things to Come or speak in tongues or cast out devils, I ask what harm in all this? 
Does it do any harm? No it does not. I know the New Testament is true for I have proved it 
according to the pattern given by believing in Christ obeying the gospel & knowing the signs do 
follow. Then I ask does these things hann any one? No they do not. 

In speaking of the kingdom of God He said the kingdom must be together. The people must be 
together & gatherd into one place. For How would the king of firance or England look 
undertaking to reign over a kingdom when the people were scatterd all over the world except in 
france or England? They could not reign over a people unless a people were with those kings to 
reign over. 

So with the saints. They must be gatherd together & this work has already commenced, & who is 
the Author of this work & gathering? Joseph Smith the Prophet of God as an instrument in the 
hands of God is the Author of it. He is the greatest man on earth. No other man of this age has 
power to assemble such a great people from all the Nations of the earth with all their varied 


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dispositions as assimu-late them & cement them together so that they will be subject to rule & 
order. This the Prophet is doing & what makes a great king President or man is to have a great 
People to rule over. 

We had an interesting time through the day. After meeting Closed I went home with Elder 
Charles Beck & spent the night. 

3 1st Our Quorum assembled together & walked over Pittsburgh. We first visited Mr Curlings 
Glass works & saw them to work through each branch of it. We saw them make pressed stamped 
& ground or cut & plain tumblers & large jars &c. 

We next went onto the bluff above the city & had a view of the New Basin that is to contain the 
water to be forced into it from the Alleghaney River to water the city. From this place we had a 
fair view of the City below & it truly sends forth its Colums of smoke & blackness that arises 
from the Cole fires that propels the numerous engines as the main spring of all the founderies 
manufacturies & works of the valey of the City of Pittsburgh. 

We then desended the hill & visited the city water works or resurvoy. The building is 150 feet 
long 1 10 feet wide containing two engines of 200 Horse power each to drive a force pump to 
force the water from the Alleganey River into the bason on the bluff to water the city as above 
spoken of. The whole cost of this building resurvoy & Bason was $200,000. The building is after 
the Roman order. The whole Archatecture design, & making & finishing the building was 
executed by Elder Charles Beck a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. 

We visited Miltonbergers Iron works through each branch of it. We saw the keel laid for an Iron 
steem Ship of war 140 feet keel for Lake Erie. Br G. A. Smith & myself spent the night with 
Elder Beck. 


August 

Aug 1st We crossed the Allagany River into the town of Allegany & spent the day at C Seechrist 
& returned in the evening. Their is three Bridges & one canal crosses the Allegany River from 
Pittsburgh within a short distance of each other. We attended meeting in the evening & Elder 
Young preached. Was followed By Elders Page & Kimball. We spent the night with Elder 
Charles Beck. 

2d Elder Beck Paid $48.00 for the passage of the Twelve to Baltimore. A Collection was taken 
up of about $20 to assist the quorum to Philadelphia. 

Aug 3d We parted with the Saints in Pittsburgh & took stage for Baltimore. Their was six of us 
of the quorum of the Twelve viz B Young, H. C. Kimball, O. Pratt, J. E. Page, W. Woodruff & 
G. A. Smith. We traveld about 25 miles along the River & over the mountains whare Rocks 
Hung in mases almost over our heads & on the other side was yawning gulfs below. We Came 
onto the National Road at Washington Pa. We Rode all day & all night in the stage about 120 
miles. We arived next morning at Cumberland. We passed through Brownville & Uniontown. 


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/<We had a talk with [man?] [-- ] territory also [paid/put] it in [-].> 

4th We Took the rail cars at Cumberland at 8 oclock AM & passed through many miles of Deep 
Moun-taineous cutting /stoped at Harpers ferry/ & arived at Baltimore (MD) about 6 oclock. We 
here took the Steemboat George Washington. Crossed the Bay of Chesepeke to Frenchtown. We 
here took the Railroad again to New Castle (Del) then the steem Boat to Philadelphia where we 
arived at 4 oclock on the 5th Aug being 48 hours from Pittsburgh to Philadelphia By Stage, Rail 
Road & Steem Boat. The whole Distance 430 miles. 

5th We were distributed among the Saints in Philadelphia at the following places: Elder B Young 
at Br P Hesse 36 old York Road. Elder H. C. Kimball at 34 Old York Road at sister Jeff res. 

Elder J E Page & G A Smith at Elder Win. Wharton Elizabeth st opposite the Methodist Chapel. 
Elder O Pratt at sister Nickolsons at 6 st 2 doors Below Rase st. (sassafras). [ ] & myself at Br 

[ ] Hammers at 12 Logan street near spring garden market. After getting sum Breakfast we 

went to rest as we had had not slep any for two nights of any account. During the after noon & 
evening we had the hardest storm & rain & wind that had been known for many years in & about 
the city of Philadelphia. Much damage was done houses unroofed, sullers fdled with water, 
streams suddenly rose, bridges, lumber & houses Carried away, a number of persons were 
drowned &c &c. 

6th Sunday In the fore part of the day I attended meeting of the Millerites in company with Elder 
Young & others. Mr Litz preached from Jer 24 eh. concerning the good & bad figs. In speaking 
of the Covenant made to Abraham in giving him the land of Canaan he said it was not to seeds 
but seed which was Christ. So the land belong to Jesus Christ & not the Jews. But Jesus Christ 
had rented it to the Jews at 6 per cent or for evry 10th & the ownly terms on which it was given 
to the Jews, & that they were robing God all the while. Will a man rob God &c? & the Land was 
taken away from the Jews & who shall have the land? Not the Jews the natural seed, But those 
that are Baptised into Jesus Christ & his spiritual Children. The kingdom was to be taken from 
the Jews & given to a Nation Bringing forth the fruits there of which will take place when Christ 
Come with his Church & Body & will then take Jerrusalem. (Why did he not say that it has 
already been given to the gentiles & they have also fallen [-]?) 

The Jews as a nation will not go to the land of Jerrusalem & when Jesus Christ Comes the Jews 
will No more be his people. I will admit that the Jews will go with the other Nations against 
Jerrusalem to Battle against the Lord & his Saints & fight against Jerrusalem & the Lord shall go 
forth & fight against the Nations & the Jews among the rest & that the Jews will fight against 
Jerrusalem. If the Jews ever go to Jerrusalem they will not go as Jews but all Christians as Christ 
Body &c &c. 

The above was the arguments presented by the milerite to do away with the literal fulfillment of 
the Bible concerning the return of the Jews & the rebuilding of Jerrusalem. But most of his 
arguments were fals & groundless. 


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In the Afternoon we met with the Saints In the canaanite Church in Julia Ann st. About 300 
Saints were present. Meeting was opened by Elder Grant & Elder B Young Addressed the 
Congregation to Considerable length & laid a good foundation. 

Among other things said that a man or woman may ask of God & get a witness & testimony from 
God concerning any work or messenger that is sent unto them. But if a person asks for a thing 
that does not concern him, such as governing the Church what shall the prophet or the Twelve do 
&c? He will not get an answer. If he does it will not be from God. 

He also remarked in Conversation or inquired who had the Melchezedek priesthood. That if any 
in the Church had it he did not know it. For any person to have the fulness of that priesthood 
must be a king & a Priest. A person may have a portion of that Priesthood the same as Governors 
or Judges of England have power from the King to transact business but yet he is not the king of 
England. A person may be anointed king & priest before they receive their kingdom &c. 

At the close of the meeting I returned to Br Hammers & in the evening Elder O. Pratt Preached & 
was followed by few remarks from Elder G A Smith. 

7th Spent the day with Brethren visiting the Saints &c. We find in to days papers an account of 
the destruction of property & loss of lives by the Storm on Saturday. About thirty lives were lost 
& 500,000 dollars worth of property destroyed. The Iron suspension bridge the first built in the 
world (so said, with the Canal Bridge & 50 other Bridges on the Chester Creek Pa are washed 
away. 

8th In company with the Twelve and about 150 Saints we left the city on Board of a Steemer for 
an excursion. As we glided over the water we passed the New frigate Rariton of sixty four guns 
which had been lanched but a short time & saw the building that coverd the Pensylvania 170 gun 
Ship the Largest in the world. We Past on to Gloster Point & spent the day in the following 
amusment drinking Ice water Lemon aid, & feasting, Sailing, fishing, swinging, walking singing, 
& discussing various subjects &c. 

The following Subject arose for discussion: Is the Prosperity of any Religous denomination a 
posa-tive evidence that they are right? Elder J E. Page Contended for the affirmative & Elder J M 
Grant for the negative After which the Chairman arose & Said that Prosperity of any people was 
no positive evidence of their being right & decided accordingly which was Elder B Young. 

After taking our suppers we returned to the boat & Crossed again to the city. Elder Page 
Preached in the evening But I returned home to Br Hammers & spent the night. Distance of the 
day 12 m. 

On my return to the city my mind was deeply exercised concerning Mrs Woodruff which 
continued through the evening with the impression that she was in distresse or afflicted. I prayed 
for her before the Lord & my mind was relieved. 


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9th A vary rainy day. I spent the time writing. I accompanied Elders O Pratt & J M Grant in the 
evening to the Navy Yard to attend a prayer meeting with the Saints. I preached 1 1/2 hours & 
was followed by Elder O. Pratt & returned home. Distance 6 mile. 

_[ 10th Elders B Young O. Pratt G. A. Smith P Hesse & myself visited the State house in 
Philadelphia. We went on to the steeple whare we had a fair view of the whole city which was an 
interesting view. From this steeple we could have a fair view of the Alms House, Jerard college, 
the cathedrals, & spires towers &c. 

We then went into the Independance Hall. Here we saw the place whare the Patriots signed the 
declaration of Independance. We set in the chairs that John Hancock sat in at the time he signed 
that instrument. We saw the statue of Washington, the painting of Lafeyette & others. We had a 
view of the painting presented by Benjamin West to the city corporation Representing the 
situation of Paul & Barnabas when they were set apart to the ministry. This Building was erected 
in AD 1733. 

We called at the mint but no business doing & we returned home. Had a rainy afternoon. 

1 1th We spent the day in visiting various part of the city esspecially Peals Musium. We went all 
through it & found it to be quite interesting. Two things of Note we examined Closely the body 
of the Mennaid found & the Mamouth skeleton. We saw several hundred portraits of 
Distinguished men &c. We Also visited the mint but the works were not in operation. The engine 
rollers & dies and all the mashinery was the highest polished & best finished of any works I ever 
saw. 

After finishing the walk of the day our quorum divided & attended prayer meetings in various 
parts of the city. I accompanied Elder Pratt & Grant to the Navy yard. I spoke over one hour & 
was followed by Elder O Pratt. 

12th We dined at sister Poltries. She made our quorum a present of $ 12 dollars in silver making 
$2 each of us. In the evening we had an interesting meeting with the Elders. All of the quorum 
present spoke. Elders Young & Kimball gave instruction & we bore testimony to the truth of the 
wor[k/d?]. 

13 th In the morning Elder Grant & myself walked to the Navy Yard & I preached & was 
followed by Elder Grant. In the afternoon we met with the saints & Elder O Pratt Preached upon 
the subject of zion from the Psalmes of David, & In the evening Elders B Young H C Kimball & 
myself occupied the time. I addressed the people first & told my experience & felt much of the 
spirit of God in bearing testimony that Joseph Smith sen was a Prophet of God that the Book of 
Mormon was true & that the work we was engaged in was of God. I was followed by Elders 
Kimball & Young who also bore testimony of the work of God by the power of God. 

14th I took the parting hand with the Saints & in company with Elders O. Pratt & Wm. Moore I 
took steem Boat & traveled 40 miles to shoolkiil & then walked 6 miles to Mr Mosleys & 


Page 170 




Preached in the meeting house. I spoke & was followed by Elder Pratt. It was a rainy night. 
Distance of the day 46 m. 

15th Rode 18 miles & walked 3. Took supper with Br [ ]. Then Rode 6 miles to Mr Hoofmans 

whare I spent the night. Distance of the day 27 miles. 

* During this days ride we passed over the ground of the Brandywine Battle. Saw whare the 
action Commenced whare the Americans Retreated & a part of them surrendered. It was near 
Chadds ford. Saw whare Gen Washington led away the remainder of the army. 

16th In company with Elder Moore I rode to Br John Neffs in Strasburgh Lancaster Co Pa & 
spent the night with him. Found him strong in the faith & manifested a disposition to do the will 
of God to sell his property & go to Nauvoo to take stock in the Nauvoo House &c. I had an 
interesting time with them. Sister Barbara showed me two Letters from Elder Julian Moses. I 
passed by Br Edward Hunters former residence. I found the country throughout this region to be 
exeeding rich & fertile. Wheat, Corn, oats & Clover in great abundance. The distance of this day 
was 25 m. 

17th } I wrote two Letters one to Julian Moses & one to Orson Spencer of New Haven Ct. I took 
the parting hand with Br Neffs family & rode to Elder Eligah Malin west Nantmeal Chester co Pa. 
Br Malin was the Presiding Elder. I spent the night at his house. Distance of the <day> 25 m. 

18th } I spent the day writing. I wrote two Letters one to Sister Betsy Cossett & one to Br Dwight 
Webster and in the evening I met with Elder O. Pratt & others & held a meeting at west 
Nantmeal Seminary. I spoke & was followed by Elder O. Pratt. We spent the night at Mr Henry 
Buckwater's. 3 miles. 

19th We commenced a two days meeting in a groove at Br Millars in Uwehland township. I 
preached in the forenoon & Elder O Pratt in the Afternoon. I spent the night at Br Millers. 
Distance <of the day> 12. 

The following was Composed by Elder Lorenzo Barnes, which I took from An Album at the 
house of Mr Mosleys Centerville New Castle Co Del. 


Virtue 

Virtue O virtue thou Jem from Above 
More Channing than beauty more endearing than love 
More Precious than Jewels and jems of the earth 
Or titles of honour desending by Birth. 

Behold the Bright rainbow that Circles the skye 
While bending to earth with its bow far on high. 

Its Colors of Beauty with rapture behold 


Pagel71 





In order and splendor enchanting unfold. 

But what are the colors that are to be seen 
In the bow of the cloud of red blue and green 
Compared with those colors which virtue combine 
Those heaven bom treasures displayed in the mind. 

The bow of the cloud’s soon faded and gone 
Its painted on rain and receds with the stonn 
But virtue a Princes in glory arayed 
Which time Cannot varnish nor eternity fade. 

Virtues dominion is not among clouds 
Nor oft is she seen mid the gay and the proud. 

Her throne is her purity her kingdom in mind 
With modesty Prudence and meekness combine. 

Thus Elvira let virtue be ever your aim 
Its light and its glory emblazen your name. 

Then Channes o'er your Temples forever shall bloom 
They'll flourish through time and revive o’er the tomb. 

Lorenzo D. Barnes 

20th Sunday } I wrote a letter to Elder M. Holmes Before meeting. We assembled at the grove at 
the time appointed & a good congregation came together. I addressed them in the fore part of the 
day from the following words: "If our gospel be hid it be hid from them that are lost &c. I felt 
much of the spirit of testimony & felt that there were many hearts to receive. At the close of the 
meeting the people flocked around the Stand to obtain our Facsimilee's of the plates and Books 
&c. They Bought $4.75 worth of them. We dined at Br Harts. During intennission we lade hands 
upon Br Malin the Presiding Elder & several other Elders. 

In the afternoon the congregation again assembled & was addressed by Elder O Pratt. He spoke 
in much of the power & demonstration of the spirit of God from Rev 22 ch. first clause of the 3d 
vers and there shall be no more curse. He commenced with the fall the curse that came on the 
earth & continued the subject untill the end & every curse was taken off. Traced the subject 
through the Millinnium second advent of Christ, the Binding of Satan, peace for one thousand 
years the numerous increase of the inhabitants of the earth, & the letting loose of Satan, his going 
up with the hosts of the earth that he had deceived & Compassing the camp of the Saints & the 
Beloved city & fire came down from heaven & devoured them. A great white throne appeared. 
The Saints & cities were cought up to God, the Heavens & earth passed away & the Lord made a 
new heavens & new earth. The Saints cities & New Jerrusalem &c came down from God out of 
heaven & rested upon the new earth & the last enemy destroyed was death. Then Jesus Christ 
deliverd it up to his father as pure &c. 

At the Close of the meeting the people adminis-te[re]d to our necessities. They gave us $1 1.75 


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which we divided among us. Elder Pratt adminis-te[re]d the ordinance of Baptism to one person 
which we confirmed at the waters edge. We then took the parting hand with the saints & rode 
home with Priest John Bowen Lionville Chester Co Pa & spent the night. We Blessed the family. 
Distance of the day 3 m. 

* I dreamed last night that I was in Nauvoo & our cow was lost & I thought it Best to advertise 
her that we might find her. But I hope she is not lost. 

21st I took the parting hand with the saints & we rode to Oakland Hotel. There took railroad to 
Philadelphia in Company with James Sloam & his wife. We saw Elder Grant. Found the rest of 
the twelve had left the city for New York. Distance of the day 40 miles. Fare $3. 

22d Spent part of the day at Br Hammers. Visited fairmount of the Philadelphia waterworks & 
found it to be a splended seeneery. [] I spent the evening in company with Elder O. Pratt J. M. 
Grant & B. Winchester. 

23 I took the parting hand with the Saints & in Company with Elders O. Pratt J. M Grant & J 
Sloan & wife took rail Road to New York. Arived in the evening. Called upon Br Mcclain 182 
canal st then upon Elder Foster 145 Walker st. Br Burge No 1 McDudle st. Attended meeting at 
Columbian Hall & spent the night at Elder Fosters. Distance to NY 100 mil. 

24th } I called upon Br Ilus Carter. He gave me a bundle of papers from Nauvoo & also a letter 
from Mrs Woodruff informing me of the birth of a daughter 17 days after I left home the babe not 
3 days old when I left home. Mother & child doing * well. I was truly glad to hear from home. I 
dined with Br Ilus Carter. I [] wrote a letter in answer to Mrs Woodruff & attended meeting with 
the saints & spent the night with Br Foster. 

25th I attended Baptism in the morning & Bathed in the Sea. Spent the day visiting the Saints. 
Attended meeting in the evening at the Hall. Spent the night with Br Foster. 

} I wrote a letter to Elder J Taylor. Sent for papers. 

26th Aug 1843 The quroum of the Twelve met with the Saints in New York in Conference. 
Meeting opened by prayer. President Young arose & addressed the meeting in an interesting 
manner upon the subject of the gathering, the Building of the Nauvoo House & Temple. He 
spoke of the Priesthood & said that it was a perfect system of goverment and made many useful 
remarks. 

In the afternoon the conference again met. Prayr By Elder Page. The meeting was addressed by 
Elder Kimball. Spoke in parables. Gather in the wheat and tares thrash the wheat & the mill will 
blow away the chaff &c. He said an Elder would get a people together & could get the priest & 
people to receive the work if they did not whip the sect so like a shepherd who would call up a 
buck & a flock of sheep & hand them a little salt & Just as they begin to eat hit him with a Club 
across the head & the sheep will run away. 


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Elder G. A. Smith followed & bore testimony of the work. Told several anecdotes. One from 
Lyman Wight. Said that a man told of a story so big about his Cheese house that a woman did not 
believ it & asked a servant if it was true. He said that his master did not let him go into the 
Cheese house but one thing he new that his master had a tremendous great Cheese house & a 
great mill of four run of stone that was carryed by the whay that runs from the Cheese house. So 
let the Elders tel about the whey but not about what is in the Cheese house as long as they have 
not seen it. Let the misteries alone & speak of things that you understand. He spoke of his 
collegiate education he received from President Joseph Smith which was to preach short sermans 
& make short prayers which had done him much good in life. 

Elder B Young next spoke & made some useful remarks. Said the scriptures had been mistifyed 
to that degree that the greatest divine of the day is as ignorant as the dumm ass concerning the 
things of God. They dont know their right hand from their left & we are trying to revere it to 
make it so simple that the people can understand it. Place a man in this room that is ignorant of 
science & take evry thing out that we can see & then ask him if their is any thing in the room. He 
says no nothing but we two. I tel him that there is millions of live animals in the room even we 
breath them & I will show him by the aid of glasses that their is live animals in one drop of water 
eight feet long. But he dont believe it untill he sees it through glasses. So with the unbeliever. He 
does not believe in God, in Angels, in spirits because he cannot see them. But let him have 
spiritual glasses or obey the commandments of God & get the spirit of God & then he can see & 
many other usful remarks he made. 

A Hymn was then sung. Then several questions were asked. 1st Can any member officer in any 
branch of the Church say their word is law & should be obeyed? (NO.) Is it right for a priest to be 
joined to a Teacher to go & visit the houses of each member when their duty is set forth in the 
covenants? (Yes any members that are officers from High Priest to Deacon may visit the Church 
or members & be set apart for this purpose if the Church will receive it.) 

[2] Instruction. If Elders or High Priest are on an Island & cannot get word from the Prophet or 
the Twelve may [they] get a revelation concerning themselves? The Twelve may get a revelation 
in any part of the world Concerning the building up the kingdom as they have to esstablish the 
kingdom in all parts of the world. So any person can ask the Lord for a witness concerning 
himself. He can get an answer to himself but not to lead the Church. That Belongs to the head of 
the church. 

3d Can a Church make buy laws as expediences [ ] for themselves that are not specffiyed in 

any revelation? Yes if they wish. They may make laws to stick their fingers in their eyes if they 
wish, but it is like sticking their fingers through a not hole in the wall to see what custom will do. 

4th When any person is ordained legally by the vote of the Church to any office can he be 
releaced from that office [&/of?] priesthood (No)and hold his standing in the church? (No.) 

Elder Young made many useful remark. Conference Adjourned untill tomorrow. 


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27th Conference met at half past 10 oclock according to adjournment. Meeting opened by 
singing. Prayer by Elder Grant. Meeting was then addressed by Elder W. Woodruff from 2d 
Epistle of Peter 1st ch. 20, 21 verses. He remarked that if the prophesies that had been fulfilled 
were fulfilled litterally in like manner would those pro-phesies which are still to be fullfilled be 
done litterally. And that the gathering of the Saints, the building of Zion, the gathering of the 
Jews the rebuilding of Jerrusalem, the esstablishing of the church & kingdom of God in the last 
days The preaching of the gospel to all the world was an event looked for by the latter day saints 
& not withstanding these things are unpopular & not looked for or believed in By the world yet 
we feel incouraged to persevere & press forward in assisting to accomplish these great & glorious 
things with a firm belief that they will as truly be brought to pass and perfected as those things 
prophesied were in ancient days. He also bore testimony of the Truth of the Book of Mormon, 
covenants, & A prophet of God. Elder Kimball followed & made some Appropriate remarks, 
when the meeting adjourned two hours. 

Elder J. E. Page addressed the meeting in the afternoon, on the testimony of the Book of Mormon 
& that Joseph Smith is a prophet of God. He quoted to many passages in the doctrins & 
covenants & Book of Mormon that prophesied of things that should take place which had 
actually come to pass according to the prophesies. He spoke quite lengthy upon the subject & 
brought much testimony to proove the truth of the position He Had taken. 

At the close of his discourse some church business was attended to as Elder L. R. Foster was 
about to go to Nauvoo it was necessary that another should be appointed in his stead to preside in 
New York. A vote was call[ed] to know if they /the church/ was perfectly satisfyed with Elders 
Foster’s labours & procedings as Presiding Elder in the Church; the vote was unanimous. Elder 
Foster resigned his office & Elder /Geo L Seach/ was appointed president of the Church in New 
York By a vot of the same After which several Children were blessed & the meeting adjourned 
untill evening; At which time Elder O. Pratt addressed the people concerning the Book of 
Mormon. 

He spoke in an edifying manner concerning the Book of Mormon its history what it was &c. That 
it was a History of nearly one half of the globe & the people that inhabited it, that it gave a 
history of all those cities that have been of late discoverd by Cartherwood & Stephens, that it 
named those cities That it spoke of the esstablishing of our goverment & what is more highly 
interesting it reveals its final fate & destiny, so that by reading the Book of mormon you can 
clearly see what will befal this nation, and what will be its final end. In that Book you will find 
recorded the pure principles of the gospel of Jesus Christ as taught by himself on the continant of 
America so plain that no two persons could disagree as to the points of doctrin set forth. Many 
interesting remarks he made upon this subject then bore testimony of the truth of Joseph Smith 
sen. being a true Prophet of God & that the Book of Mormon was true & that the Church of the 
Latter day saints was the true church of God & after finishing his testimony he commenced and 
preached another sermon & spoke in all a little short of two hours. 


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After he closed we blessed 5 children & attended to some other duties. We dismissed the people. 

I dined with Br Ilus Carter & spent the night with Elder Foster. Mr Carter attended [— ] in the 
morning. 

Aug 28th I met with the Twelve in the morning & spent several hours together. I mailed a letter 
to Elder J. Taylor containing 10 subscribers for the Times & Seasons. I dined at Br Ilus Carters & 
con-vers with Mrs Carter & Mrs Snow. I had a Minuature taken by Mr Miller as a Present to Mrs 
Woodruff. Price $4.50. 0 1 called upon Miss Mary Sloan who seemed much pleased to see me & 
spoke about going to Nauvoo. Desired much to go. I returned to Br Ilus Carters & took tea. Saw 
Mrs Sloan. Spent the evening with Ilus. Before I left him he spoke of sending some dry goods & 
carpeting to me at Nauvoo to sell for him. I spent the night at Elder Fosters. Distance of the day 6 
miles. 

29th I left new York in company with Elders Davis, Wandell, & Walley on Board of the Mutual 
Safety to Norwalk. I was sea sick. I stoped at the house of Albert Gregory & we Preached at night 
in the town house & spent the night with Br Gregory. Distance of the day 65 miles. 

30th I went out with Br Gregory & Davis to ketch oysters. We caught about 2 Bushels. We had a 
meal to roast. I visited the Saints in evening, & Preach to the saints & had a good time. Spent the 
night with Br Gregory. 

3 1st We left the saints in Norwalk & took steem Boat to Bridgport & Stage to New Haven. We 
stoped at S. Browns Tavern then walked to Burr Frost at Westville & spent the night. Distance of 
the day 40 m. (Fare to N Haven $1.25.) 


September 

Sept 1st We walked to New Haven. From thence to Fair Haven & called upon Mr Smith Tuttle 
who would open doors for preaching. We spent part of the day with him & returned to westville 
& preached at night at Br Frost to a small number. We spent the night at Br Frost. 

2d We walked to New Haven & called upon Lewis Allen No. 10 Collage st. We dined at Brown's 
Tavern. I then took the parting hand with Elder Davis & took the Stage for Farmington. I had 
many peculiar reflections while passing through this town whare I had spent much of my youth. 

I arived at my fathers house in the evening & found my father & mother well. Eunice & Br 
Webster was better than they had been. I was glad to see my fathers Family one more & enter 
under the roof of my youth. It gives me peculiar reflections to pass through the town & over the 
places whare I have spent my youth in company with Brothers & friends who now sleep in the 
dust. I spent the night at Father Woodruff. I found my Father attending Both saw & grist mill 
alone although he was 65 years of age. [] I received a letter from Mrs Woodruff which I was glad 
to get. Felt to rejoice to hear from my family again. Distance of the day 30 m. 

3d Sunday I walked on the Canal bank in the morning & surveyed the meadows the river the mill 


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alone whare I had walked with my Brothers & sister & with my Bosom Friend in days that are 
past. But now I am alone. After musing a while on past seenes with a mixture of pleasure & pain 
rather more pain than pleasure I returned to the house. 

Spent the day with the family & in the evening I preached to the people. Had a goodly number 
present. After meeting I Baptized two persons James Hooker & [ ] Smith & spent a piesant 

evening & another night under my Fathers roof. 

4th } I wrote two letters one to Phoebe & inclosed a $5 dollar Bill to her. I also wrote A letter to 
Azmon Woodruff. 

5th I again was called to take the parting hand with Father Woodruff. May the Lord preserve us 
to meet again. I left Fannington in company with Mother, Eunice & Sister Mary Smith & passed 
through the pine woods to Avon. Saw the old Bogue Hills & house & place of my nativity. We 
called at Mrs Judds. Had a view of Aunt Wheelers place as we passed along and arived at Aunt 
Gossetts in the afternoon. 

Sister Mary had a vary poor turn. It seemed for a little as though she would die. It was the 
stopage of Blood at the heart would rush to the head. She was bled Administered to & was soon 
relieved. 

Cousin Betsey & myself rode to Terriffville to see Aunt Bulah. Spent a little time & returned 
home to our friends at Aunt Gossetts & spent the night. Distance of the day 16 miles. 

6th It was difficult to make up my mind whether to go on to day or stay. I finally Concluded to 
tarry. I took the parting hand with Mother & Eunice & sister Mary who started for home in 
Farmington. I stayed & spent the night in syms-bury & preached in the evening in the school 
house, to a small Congregation who gave good attention. Aunt Cossett & family & Bulah was 
present & seemed to enjoy themselves well. ..[Eilpses are Woodruffs .] 

A sad accident happened to James Camp & wife in Farmington on Saturday the 2d Aug. They 
were both flung from their carriage. Mr Camp was badly brused & Mrs Camp was killed so 
sudden that she ownly spoke once. It was a great trial to the family. 

7th I took stage & rode to westfield & called upon Ashbel Dewey the presiding Elder at Little 
River. Gave out an appointment for a meeting with the Saints & met with them at Br Samuel 
Ensigns. Had a good meeting. The Church in this place consists of 39 members, & in the Town 
of Russel their is a branch of the Church of 15 members 8 miles west of westfield Mass. Distance 
20 m. 

8th I left the Saints at westfield & took the Rail Cares. Rode to Boston in the second class. Fare 
was $2.30. Arived at Boston at 7 oclock. Distance to Boston 120 miles. 

On my arival to the City I found Elder G. A Smith & another Br waiting for me at the railroad. 
We carried our trunks to a Brothers & went to meeting at Boylston Hall Comor of Boylston & 


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Washington streets. Here I had the privileg of meeting again with some of the Twelve viz H C 
Kimball J. E Page, O Pratt & G. A. Smith. Elder J E Page Addressed the meeting. 

I spent the night with Elder Kimball. He read me a letter from his wife which was interesting. 
May the Lord Bless Joseph. Give him a victory over his enemies & support him in evry trial & 
prepare the saints for that which is to come I pray. 

[ 9 ] Conference 

of 

the quorum of the Twelve Apostles met [in] the Boston church at Boylston Hall on the 9th Day 
of Sept 1843. There were present of the quorum of the Twelve Brigham Young Heber C. 
Kimball, P. P. Pratt O Pratt [ ] J. E. Page, W. Woodruff & G A Smith. 

Conference opened by prayer By Elder G A Smith. President Young Called for Business. 

Elder E P Magin represented the Boston Branch 

Containing members 1 82 
do Peterboro " " 88 

strong in faith of gathering. 

Elder B. F. Gruid Represented the Lowel Branch consisting of members 48 

Elder Snow Represented the Salem Branch of 75 or 80 12 or 15 to start west next Tuesday & 
another company to start the 1st of October which will take about half of the Church. 

Elder Lewis Represented the Church in New Bebford containing members 100. Many of them 
not active. Not more than one third of them come to meeting. Have not had a Preacher lately. If a 
good one was to come good might be done. 

E P Magin represented the Church in Gilsom N.H. containing 42. Among the No are two 
Cousins of President Joseph Smith one the postmaster of the Place. 

Elder Bryant Represented the Georgetown Branch containing members 30. But not much of the 
spirit of gathering. Elder E Snow remarked he did not wonder they had not the spirit of gathering 
when their Presiding Elder Nathaniel Holmes & his Son Elder Milton Holmes has setteled down 
with the Church manifesting No disposition to gather themselves. It was no wonder the Church 
had not the spirit of it. 

Elder Jesse Haven Represented the Church in North Bridge members 41. They were scattered in 
several towns. Large majority have the spirit of gathering. One cut off 1 died 1 set asid. The 
majority in full faith. 

E P Magin Represented New Salem Branch from 45 to 50 
" And wendall 40 


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And Leveratt generally in good standing 35 


Elders Rogers informs that several families was to start from Leveratt next Wednesday. He 
represents the Westfield Branch members 39 


Cabitsville 10 

Northbridge Branch 37 

Farmington Ct 12 

Scattering 13 


Elder P. P. Pratt arose and remarked that Some tell us that they have taught the gathering 
according to the scriptures, but to teach the gathering from the scriptures alone is not sufficient. 
For By this they would be left in doubt. They would not know whether to gather to Jerrusalem to 
Africa or America. 

It is right to teach the gathering according to the Scriptures but we are not left to this alone. We 
know & all the Saints aught to know that God has pointed out a place & time of gathering and 
has raised up a Prophet to bring it about of which we are witnesses. We have not got to go along 
round about. The time & place is pointed out the foundations of the city & Temple laid and a 
people already gatherd & we know [we] have to go & to reject the revelations of God that have 
pointed out these things to us ownly brings Condemnations & if this is not the Case then our faith 
is vain & our works & hopes are vain also. We have already got the opinions of men enough 
concerning the coming of Jesus Christ. But we need the voice of a Prophet in such a Case & we 
have it & I am willing to risk my all upon it. And if the Elders understand the principal of 
gathering and teach it correctly the people would have the correct spirit of gathering. 

E. P. Magin arose & said he made the remark that he had taught the gathering according to the 
scriptures, But he considered all modem Revelations scripture as well as those given anciently. [ 

] P. P. Pratt Sayed they agreed their was no disagreement &c. 

Elder B. Young arose & Said he wished to make a few general remarks concerning the subject of 
our faith. We hear the Elders represent the feelings of the Brethren Concerning the gathering. The 
spirit of the Lord Jesus Christ is a gathering spirit & its tendency is to gather the virtuous & good 
the honest & meek of the earth, & in fine the saints of God. The time has come when the Lord is 
detennin to full-fill his purpose. 

Had we lived in the days of Jesus Christ we would say we would receive his work. But Judge ye 
if the people are better now than then. They are not. When the full set time was come the Lord 
came in the flesh to do his work whether the people were prepared or not. And now the full set 
time is come for the Lord God Almighty to set his hand to redeem Israel. 

We are not bound to make the people believe but to preach the gospel & then our gannents are 
Clear. The Lord does not require evry soul to leave his home as soon as he believes but he requirs 
him to harken to council & follow that course that the lord points out. The spirit of the Lord & 


Page 179 




this work is on the elert, and those that keep up with the work must be on the alert also. 

When the Lord says gather yourselves together why do you ask the Lord what for? Is it not the 
principle of the Saints to mingle together to promote the great cause in which we are engaged? 
Say you cannot the Lord save us as well whare we are as to gather together? Yes if the Lord sayes 
so but if he commands us to come out & gather together He will not save us by staying at home. 

Have you not received the gospel? Yes. Then do you believe the gospel what we say? Have you 
not received the Holy Ghost By receiving the gospel which we have Brought unto you? Yes & 
thousands have & it stands as a testimony that God has got a Prophet on the earth. You might 
have been baptized seventy times seven in any way except the way God had ordained and pointed 
out & you would not have received the Holy Ghost. This also is a testimony to you. 

Are ye ingaged in the great work with us? Ye will say yes. Can ye do any good? Yes ye can. The 
sectarian world Send the Bible to the nations of the earth, the people put in sixpence fifty cts or a 
dollar into the box, & send Bibles through the world. 

Then cannot we do sumthing? Yes the Lord requires us to build a house unto his name that the 
ordinances & blessings of his kingdom may be revealed & that the Elders may be endowed & go 
forth & gather together the Blood of Ephraim the people of God from the ends of the earth. Can 
you get an endowment in Boston? No & ownly in that place that God has pointed out. 

Now query Could Moses have got the law had he staid in the midst of the Children of Israel? Had 
he not gone to the mountains? The Lord says go & do so & so. Stand before Phario, pull off your 
shoes for the ground is Holy &c. Moses obeyed & obtained blessings, but if he had not obeyed he 
would not have obtained the blessing. 

But why query about it? Has the Lord spoken? Yes. Then this is enough. I do not care whether 
the people gather or not if they dont want to. I do not wish to save the people against their will. I 
wish you to have your Choice either to gather with the righteous or stay with the wicked. I would 
like to have all people bow down to the Lord Jesus Christ but it is one of the decrees of the Lord 
that all persons shall act upon their agency, which was the case even with the angels that fell 
from heaven. 

Now will you help us to build the Nauvoo House & Temple? If so you will be blessed. If not we 
will build it alone. And if you dont harken you will not have the spirit of the Lord for the spirit of 
the Lord is on the moove. 

The Apostles tried to gather the people together in their day. Christ said he would gather the Jews 
oft as a hen gathereth her chickens under her wings but they would not. God and Angels dont 
care whether men hear or forbear. They will carry on their work for the full set time is come and 
we Care about it. We must build a house & get an endowment & preach the gospel, warn the 
people, gather the Saints, build up Zion & finish our work & be prepared for the coming of 
Christ. 


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Now we want to send missionaries to the Islands. Can you do sumthing for them? & that is not 
all we want you to do. We want you to give us sum thing to build a temple. We want what you 
have to spare. But are you afraid that you will not have Enough for youself when you get there? 
But how easy it is for the Lord to take it away from you By fire & otherwise. E P Magin had an 
/Ivory/ Cane. I asked him for it but he din give it to me. But he soon lost it & it did neither of us 
any good. But the Lord can give & take away. Jacob with his faith obtained all the best cattle that 
his Father in law had. 

Who blesses you and all the people? God. But do the people acknowledge the hand of God in all 
these things? No, they turn away from him & do not acknowledge him or realize from whom 
their Blessings flow. 

Let me tell you a secret. When the Lord shakes the earth And the Hills fall down & vallies are 
exhalted then for Brass the Lord will bring gold for Iron silver for stones Iron &c. Then you will 
have no use for gold, for money & gods as you now have. But the Lord will think as much of it 
then as now. 

Let us have some of your gold to take to Nauvoo to make a temple & Nauvoo House so that 
when the Kings Princes & Nobles of the earth call at Nauvoo to enquire after the wisdom of Zion 
that they may have a place to entertain them, & that the weary travel-lor may be refreshed. 

Is their wisdom in Zion? We think so & the world begin to think so. Let the world come forward 
& translate the plates that have of late come forth if they have wisdom to do it. The Lord intends 
to take away the gods of the gods of the gentiles. The Lord pulleth down & buildeth up at his 
own pleasure. Dont be afraid of a dollar A hundred or a thousand dollars. I would not. I have 
made a sacrafice a good many times. The Lord has promised A hundred fold & I have taken this 
course to get rich, to give all I had & God has given many blessings in Consequence. If I have 
been to bold in asking, then be to bold in giving. Give your all and God will repay as much again. 
Adjurned untill half past 2 oclok. 

Met according to adjournment. Meeting opened by singing & Prayer By Elder P P Pratt to who 
arose and said I have a few remarks to make concerning the subject spoken of in the fornoon By 
Elder B Young who said we wanted all your gold silver & precious things &c. We not ownly 
want your all as pertains to gold silver &c but we want you, your wives & Children, & all you 
have. 

I dont know that I can give you a better pattern of what we want than the case of Joseph in Egypt. 
An Israelite will get all he can. They are vary great to go ahead. The Egyptains believed in 
dreams & by this peculiar gift Joseph entered into a great scheme off speculation. He used the 
gift of dreams to become great in the eyes of the Egyptians & had great political influence. Came 
out on the kings horse in great splendor, & lade up com in great abundance during the seven 
years Plenty & in time of famine got all the gold, silver, cattle property & their own persons. This 
speculation was from A Josephite and it was like an Israelite. It was like Noah, Lot, Christ, & c & 


Pagel81 




it is a fair sample of our speculation. 

God is the origin of Power the sovreign, & he has a right to reign, & their will be good times & 
goverment when the world will acknowledge the God of heaven their lawgiver & If I could live 
under his goverment I should be thankful. Then our prayer would be answered may thy kingdom 
come &c. Untill that time we must pray for it. 

This Joseph in Egypt the Speculator what a great & good man he was. I love him. I admire his 
Course, & I Believe a little of his Blood is in my veins. But had Joseph been like the religious 
world at the present day he would not have rode the kings horse & wore his robe & had nothing 
to do with gold & silver, & do no good, save no com, build no store houses, do none of these 
things for fear of speculation. But He done differently. 

And their is a prophesy about the modem Prophet Joseph, being raised & supported by the power 
of God to do a work on the earth. And he has been raised up & the Lord has been with him & 
evry [weapon] formed against him has been broaken. He has had rising of thirty law suits to pass 
through & yet he has overcome & no accusation has been susstained against him. But he will lay 
a plan to speculate as large as Ancient Joseph did. 

What Elder Young said is good, and even now we want you to take that course that will save 
you. Build up a city & Temples & enjoy them & do as the Lord tells you & harken to 
Councils?]. We have a prophet to tell us what to do, and we should get as much wisdom as the 
world. If the world want a rail road built all they have to do is to open Books. The people 
subscribe stock & a rail road is soon built & an income is brought. And the Saints ought to be as 
well united as the world & do the things that God has required, that a great nation may be saved 
from all Nations. 

The old gentleman that mles the nations has mled long enough and if I was an Infidel I would 
like to have the Lord raise up a Joseph or Daniel or sumbody to raise up a change for the good of 
the world. And thank Heaven he has begun to raise them up to do the great work of God & it will 
Continue untill the saying goes forth that the Lord has built up Zion. 

I read that Gold, silver, power thrones & dominions will be connected with the great work of 
God in the last days. Then let us wake up and enlarge our hearts & prepare for the great & 
glorious work. Does the Saints here in Boston know that they are Identified with laying the 
foundation of a great & mighty work that is to enclude all the great and glorious work that is to 
be fulfilled in the last dispensation & fulness of times? And I Prophecy in the name of the Lord 
that whether Boston Saints or who may stand for it or rise against it that almost numberless 
milions will selebrate that day when the foundation of this work was laid. 

G A Smith Arose and said that he was pleased with the many remarks that had been made this 
day. You can see a similarity between the two Josephs & the Laws that were given, says one who 
believes that God who dwells in heaven will speak about building a house &c in this day of 
religion & science. But the day was when the salvation or damnation of a whole world hung upon 


Page 182 




a small circumstance even in the days of Noah the building of an ark. Had the Editors of this day 
lived then I think they would have said and written more against it than they have against Joseph 
Smiths Revelations. 

You talk about God condesending to speak of small things in the last days but no more so than it 
was in the days of Moses. For we read in the bible how God commanded the Children of Israel 
when they found a birds nest to take the young to themselves but to let the dam go free. What 
for? Why that their days might be long in the land which the Lord their God giveth them. So 
come to the point it was a great thing at last. Yet connecting this with the word of the Lord 
Concerning eating Beetles & gras-hoppers was as small business for the Lord to talk about as it 
was for the Lord to command the Saints to Build a tavern. This Boarding house when done will 
do much good for the spreading of the work to all nations, But what good could arise from eating 
Beetles & grasshopers I cannot say. 

All the prophesies have aimed at the gathering of the people & saving of them in the last days. 
But my advise is if you cannot take hold of the work & go through the whole course to stop & go 
no further. We do not want to deceive you. Our traditions have been to be vary religious weare 
long faces, never tell a story or laugh &c. This was the case with the long faced Christians in Mo 
& they were the first to strike a dagger to our hearts. 

If I wear a strange hat it is not because of my religion for whare the religion of a man is in his hat 
or coat it is not vary extensive any whare els. And whenever I have seen Elders trying to preach 
sumthing large to get a name the mysteries &c I have believed that such have got yet much to 
leam. As many are desireous of hearing mysteries I will rehears a short sermon or misteriy. 

Elder Kimball has been of long standing in the Church. Preached much done much good brought 
many souls into the kingdom & had great influence &c. Elder Amasa Lyman & myself went into 
a place to preach whare the Elders had preached all the mysteries. They wanted us to preached 
mysteries. We told them we were not qualified to preach miysteries but if they would send for 
Elder Kimball he could preache the mysteries. So they sent abut 40 miles for Elder Kimball & 
brought him down as they were so anxious to hear the mysteries & when he came, he had a large 
congregation assembled & he arose before them & remarked that he had understood they had 
sent for him to come & preach the mysteries to them. I am fully competent to do it & am happy 
of having the privilege And I want the attention of all, & when evry mind was streached eager for 
the mysteries, He says the first miystery I shall present before you is this, Elder Amasa Lyman 
wants a Pair of Pantaloons, & it is a great mystery that an Elder in this church should want a pair 
of Briches, & esspecially that the people should know that they want it & the remainder of his 
miysteries were like unto [it] & the consequence of this sennan was that Elder Lyman got a pair 
of Pantaloons & Elder Kimball a Barrel of flour for his family. 

Elder B. Young arose & said I will make an apology for my remarks in the fore part of the day. 
Some may think I spoke vary plain. But the Apology I have to make is I will turn Thompsonian 
doctor & give the Composition without sweetning. This work is all. It is my all. If this work does 


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not live God knows I dont want to live, And I want you to understand it, that he that gathereth not 
with us scattereth. And they that have tasted the Bitter Cup feel it. 

Wake up ye Elders that have sought to build yourselves up & not the kingdom of God. Wake up 
ye that have daubbed with untempered morter. Harken & hear me for I say unto you that if you 
do not help us build the Temple & Nauvoo House you shall not inherit the land of Zion. If you do 
not help build up Zion & the cause of God you shall not partake of their Blessings. 

Many elders seek to Build themselves up & not the work of God. But when any one does this no 
matter who he may be he will not prosper even if it was one of the Twelve. Those of the Twelve 
& others of the Elders that have apostitized I have known their hearts their breathings & known 
their moov-ments. They thought I did not know much But I knew all about them, & when I see 
men preaching to build themselves up & not Zion I know what it will end in. 

But say you I am young. I dont Care if you are young. Do you know what you are about? If so 
Preach & labour for the building up of the City of Zion. Concentrate your means & influence 
there & not scatter abroad. Be faithful or you will not be Chosen for the day of Chusing is at the 
door. 

Why be afraid of a sacrafice? I have given my all many times & am willing to do it again. I 
would be glad to hear the Lord say through his servant Joseph, let my servant Brigham give again 
all that he has. I would obey in a moment if it took the last coat of from my Back. 

Elder Kimball sayes I get up of necessity to say a few words. I am quite unwell, But I feel the 
importance of this work. I have been a member of this Church 12 years. I came out of the Baptist 
Church & Joined this & I have passed through evry thing but death, & we have come here to call 
for help to build the Houses & I have spent $30 to get here & collected $15 dollars. 

We were commanded to come of the Lord But it seems as though but few felt interested in it. 
Here I see three Brethren going to the far distant Islands. I could weep for them. They have but 
little money to help themselves. I feel interested in this great work. We have come out to Reep 
but do we have time to Reep new grain? No for it takes all our time to try to save [th.?] that is 
reap. 

You think that Elder Young has put the flail on rather heavy. But it is nothing to be compaired 
with the Threshing you will get in Zion, & those that have the hardest heads have to be thrashed 
the hardest. But dont be troubled about the chaff. When it comes to the bams God will prepare a 
great wind Mill that will blow all the Chaff away. 

I speak in Parables. I Compare the Saints to a good cow. When you milk her Clean she will 
always have an abundance of milk to give. But you milk her a little & she will soon dry up. So 
with the Saints. If they do but little in building up Zion they soon have but little to do with. This 
was the case in Cincinnati. 

I had a dream concerning the Saints there. I thought I was in a field of wheat that was stacked up 


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& we had got to draw it into the bam. Come to open the stack the bundle would all fall to peices 
& it was filled with clusters of Rats & mice, who had been eating up the grain. I thought these 
Rats & mice were the Elders & official members who had been in & lain on the Church, lived on 
the wheat eaten them up instead of building up New Churches. So that when the Twelve came 
along they could not get any thing for the Temple or Nauvoo House, or Hardly a place to stay. 

The rats had eat up the wheat so & we had to go to the world for a home to stay while we were 
their. 

We are not Polished stones like Elder Babbit Elder Adams, Elder Blakesley & Elder Magin &c. 
But we are rough Stones out of the mountain, & when we roll through the forest & nock the bark 
of from the trees it does not hurt us even if we should get a Cornor nocked of occasionally. For 
the more they roll about & knock the comors of the better we are. But if we were pollished & 
smooth when we get the cornors knocked of it would deface us. 

This is the Case with Joseph Smith. He never professed to be a dressed smooth polished stone 
but was rough out of the mountain & has been rolling among the rocks & trees & has not hurt 
him at all. But he will be as smooth & polished in the end as any other stone, while many that 
were so vary poliched & smooth in the beginning get badly defaced and spoiled while theiy are 
rolling about. 

P P Pratt said Some are going to Zion. The rest want to know what they shall do. Isaiah Said I 
will take one of a city & two of a family & bring them to Zion & I will feed them with Pastures 
after my own heart that will feed you with knowledge & understanding. And inasmuch as you 
harken to council you will know what the will of the Lord is concerning you in all things. 

0 Pratt arose & Said I do not know that I can say any thing to impress the subject upon your 
minds that has been spoken upon more fully than has been done. There are some things however 

1 wish to mention; we have learned from what we hear this day about the blessings that will be 
given when the Temple is finished. I will speak of some of the Consequences that will follow if 
we do not obey. 

The Lord has said he will reveal things that have been hid from the foundation of the world. No 
former age or generation of the world has had the same things revealed. But the Lord says if you 
build that house in that time you shall be blessed. If not you shall be rejected as a Church with 
your dead saith the Lord. So if that house is not built, then in vain is all our cares faith & works. 
Our meetings & hopes are veign. But if few do their duty they will get the Blessing, & we are 
detennined to do our duty & set these principles before the Saints. We will turn this 
responsibility upon the heads of the Saints & clear our gannents & then the Lord is able to endow 
all the faithful in some other place. 

The Lord gave a revelation several years since & said gather together your wise men & send up 
your moneys & buy lands. If not you shall not have an inheritance but your enemies are upon 
you. We went through & told the Saints these things but did the Churches do as god 
commanded? No they did not & the Revelation was fulfilled & the Saints driven out. The Lord 


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Says the Church shall give heed to the words of the Prophet as he is to hold the keys of the 
kingdom of God in this life & the world to Come. Then it is of much Consequence that you give 
heed to his word. 

You can ask God if the work is true & he will give you a testimony. I doubt in my own mind if 
any man can stand what they will have to pass through unless they do get a witness for 
themselves, & I pray you to give heed to the words the Twelve have taught you & ask God to 
help you. 

The Conference was adjourned untill 10 oclock tomorrow morning. 

Sept 10th 1843 Sunday Morning Conference met according to adjournment. Meeting was opened 
by singing & Prayer By Elder Magin After which Elder W. Woodruff arose & addressed the 
assembly from Amos 3 ch. 7 ve[rse] ’Surley the Lord God will do nothing dut he revealeth his 
secrets unto his servents the Prophets." The Speaker Remarked that according to the Testimony 
of the Scriptures in all ages of the world whenever God was about to Bring a Judgment upon the 
world or accomplish any great work, the first thing the Lord has done has been to raise up a 
Prophet & reveal unto him his secrets & send him to warn the people, that they may be left 
without excuse. 

This was the case in the days of Noah & Lot. God was about to Bring Judgment upon the People 
& he raised up [a] Prophet & warned them of it. But they did not give heed to them But rejected 
their Testimony & the Judgments came upon them & they were destroyed, while the Prophets 
were saved by persuing the course marked out by the Lord. 

Jesus Christ Testifyed to the Jews of the things that awaited them as a nation the fall of 
Jerrusalem & their dispersion among the gentile world but they did not believe it. Yet the secret 
of all these things was revealed to the Prophet & Apostles & they Believed it & looked for its 
fulfillment & it Came to Pass as it was predicted, though Conterary to the expectations of the 
Jewish Nation[s?]. 

In like manner do we look for the certain fulfillment of those tremendous events upon the heads 
of the gentile world, which have been spoken of & pointed out by all the Holy Prophets & 
Apostles since the world began who have spoken as they were moved upon by the power of God 
& the gift of the Holy Ghost, events which more deeply Consem the gentile world than the 
overthrow of Jerrusalem & the dispersion of the Jews did the Jewish Nation. For while they 
stumbled at the stone they were broken but while it falls upon the heads of the gentile world it 
will grind them to pow[d]er. And the full set time is Come for the Lord to set his hand to 
accomplish thies mighty events. 

And as the Lord has done in other ages, so he has done now. He has raised up a Prophet & is 
revealing unto him his secrets & through that Prophet He has brought to light the fullness of the 
everlasting Gospel to the present generation, & is again once more for the last time esstablishing 
his Church upon the foundation of the Ancient Apostles & Prophets Christ Jesus Being the Chief 


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comor stone. 


In the Church is now found Judeges as at the first & Councillors as at the beginning. The Church 
is composed of Apostles & Prophets, Pasters & Teachers, gifts & graces for the perfecting of the 
Saints the work of the ministry & the edifying of the body of Christ. 

The Lord has raised up servents & sent [them] into the vineyard to prune the vineyard once more 
for the last time, to Preach the gospel of Jesus Christ to warn the Nations that they may be left 
without excuse in the day of their visitation & to gather the honest in heart & the meek of the 
earth that Zion may be built up & the Prophets fulfilled. 

One of the secrets that God has revealed unto his Prophet in these days is the Book of Mormon; 

& it was a secret to the whole world untill it was revealed unto Joseph Smith, whome God has 
raised up as a Prophet Seer & Revelator unto his people. This record contains an account of the 
ancient inhabitants of this continant who over spread this land with cities from sea to sea, the 
ruins of which still remain as a standing monument of their arts, science power & greatness. It 
also points out the esstablishing of this our own Nation & also its progress decline, & fall, & 
those predictions contained in the Book of Mormon, the stick of Joseph in the hands of Ephraim 
will as truly be fulfilled as those Contained in the Bible the stick & record of Judah, & Both of 
these records contain Prophesys of Great import, concerning the gentile nations & esspecially 
this land & nation which are not yet fulfilled, but must shortly come to pass. Yea its fulfillments 
is nigh even at the door. 

Though the secretts which God is revealing through his servant the prophet in the last days may 
be unpopular & unbelieved by the world yet their unbelief will not make the truth of God without 
effect any more than it did in the days of Lot & Noah or in the fall of Jerrusalem. 

When Jesus Christ said their should not be left one stone upon another in the Temple that should 
not be thrown down The Jewish nation did not believe it. Neither would they receive such 
testimony. But they were ready to look at outward circumstances, & ready to say who can prevail 
against us? What nation [is] like onto our nation? We have held the giving of the Law the 
articles, the Urim & Thumim. The Lawgiver has never departed from between our feet. We have 
held the power of government from generation to generation & what nation now hath power to 
prevail against us? & through this ordor of reasoning they were Blinded & knew not the day of 
their visitation. They understood not the things that belonged to their peace. They rejected their 
Lord & king, contended against his word & Testimony & finally put him to death on the cross 
with many who followed him. 

But this did not hender the fulfillment of the words of Jesus Christ concerning that nation. The 
words of the Lord had gone out of his mouth & could not return unto him void. The things that 
belonged to their Peace were hid from their eyes. They were counted unworthy as a nation. The 
kingdom was to be rent out of their hands & given to annother. The die was Cast & Judgment 
must come. 


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The city was soon surrounded by the roman army led on by the inspired Titus, & a scene of 
calamity judgment & woe immediately overspread the inhabitants of that city which was devoted 
to destruction, such a calamity as never before had rested upon the nation of Israel. Blood flowed 
through their streets. Tens of thousands fell by the edge of the sword, & thousands by famine. 
Women were evil towards the Children of their own bosem in the straitness of the seige the 
seenery of which shocked the roman soldiers as they entered the city. The Jews were crucified in 
such numbers by their enemies, that they Could find no more wood for crosses or room for their 
bodies in their midst, & while dispair was in evry face & evry heart sinking, while suffering 
under the Chastning hand of God their enemies rushed upon them in the city to strike the last 
fatal blow & as their last resort they rushed in to the Temple for safety which was soon on fire & 
they sunk in the midst of the flames with the cry of their suffering assending on high 
accompanied by the smoke of her crackling spires & the remaining miserable few were sold as 
slaves & driven like the dumb ass before his burthen & scattered as corn is sifted in a sive 
throughout the gentile nations world. 

Jerrusalem was raised from its foundations & the Temple thrown down & the foundation thereof 
plowed up that not one stone was left upon another & Christ Said that Jerrusalem should be 
trodden down of the gentiles unt0 the times of the gentiles be fulfilled which has been the case to 
the vary letter untill the present generation. 

Will not God in like manner as truly & faithfully bring to pass those great, important and 
tremendious events upon the heads of the gentile world which have been proclaimed by the 
Prophets Isaiah Jeremiah Ezekiel, Daniel, & many of the Holy Prophets & Christ & the Apostles, 
on the continant of Asia as well as Lehi, Nephi, Alma & Moroni & others who wrote on the 
continant of America all of which have proclaimed these things as they were moved upon by the 
spirit of Inspiration the power of God & the gift of the Holy Ghost. The Apostle says that no 
prophecy of the scriptures is of any privat interpetation, but commandments came not of old time 
by the will of man but Holy men of God spake as they were moved upon by the Holy Ghost. 

Isaiah soul seemed to be on fire & his mind wraped in the visions of the Almighty while he 
declaired in the name of the Lord, that it should come to pass in the last days that God should set 
his hand again the second time to recover the remnant of his people, assemble the outcast of 
Israel gather together the dispersed of Judah, make men go over dry shod, gather them to 
Jerrusalem on Horses mules swift beasts & in charriots &c rebuild Jerru-salem upon her own 
heaps, while at the same time the destroyer of the gentiles was on his way & while God was 
turning the captivity of Israel he would put all their curses & aflictions upon the heads of the 
gentiles their enemies, who had not saught to recover them but to destroy them & had troden 
them under foot from generation to generation. 

At the Same time the standard shoud be lifted up that the honest in heart & the meek among the 
gentiles should seek unto it & that Zion should be redeemed & be built up a Holy City. That the 
glory & power of God should rest upon her, & be seen upon her. That the watchman upon mount 


Page 188 




Ephraim might Cry arise ye & let us go up unto Zion the City of the Lord our God, that the 
gentiles might come to her light & kings to the brightness of her rising. That the Saints of God 
may have a place to flee to & stand in Holy places while judgment works in the earth. That when 
the Sword of God that is bathed in heaven falls upon Idumie or the world when the Lord pleads 
with all flesh by sword & by fire & the slain of the Lord is many that the Saints may escape these 
calamities by fleeing to the places of refuge like Lot & Noah. 

Isaiah in his 24 ch gives sumthing of an account of the calamity & Judgments that shall come 
upon the heads of the gentile nations, & this because they have transgressed the laws, changed 
the ordinances & broken the everlasting covenant. St Paul says to his Roman Brethren that if the 
gentiles do not continue in the goodness of God they like the house of Israel should be cut off. 
Though Babylon says I sit as a queen am no widow & shall see no sorrow The Revelator says, 
Therefore shall her plagues come in one day death and mourning and famine & she shall be 
utterly burned with fire for strong is the Lord God who Judgeth her. 

Jesus Presents a parable of the Fig tree that when we see the signs in the sun, moon, stars, heaven 
& earth of which he spoke we might know that his coming is near. That the generation in which 
those signs appeared should not pass away untill all should be fulfilled. Though Heaven & earth 
should pass away his words should not pass away but should all be fulfilled. 

Those things are about to come to pass upon the heads of the present generation not withstanding 
they are not looking for it neither do they believe it. Yet their unbelief will not make the truth of 
God without effect. The signs are appearing in the heavens & on the earth and all things indicate 
the fulfillment of the Prophets. The figtree is leaving summer is nigh, And the Lord has sent his 
angels to lay the foundation of this great and important work. Then why should not God reveal 
his secrets unto his servents the Prophets that the Saints might be led in paths of safety that they 
may escape those evils that are about to engulf a whole generation in ruin? 

[ ] 

Sept 12th I left Boston at 5 oclock in the express train of cars for Portland and about 10 oclock 
while passing through the Chesterwoods 6 miles south of Kennebunk the engine was thrown 
from the track in consequence of a rail being raised 8 inches by some designing miscrant. The 
force was such that It drove the engine about 5 rods ahead and smashed it to peaces with the 
Baggage cars piled [on] top of it & the first passengers cars followed in its train & mounted the 
pile and instantly killed /about 8 feet high throwing the passen[gers?] [— ]/. 

One Lady was brused but not dangerous, another was slightly injured. The lives of many were in 
danger, & it seemed a mystery that so little injury comparatively was done. Four cars were filled 
with passengers & had not the force been broaken by the baggage cars many lives would have 
been lost. The Baggage car soon was on fire which was with difficulty extinguished. The fireman 
was thrown about 3 rods & escaped with a slight injury. But the engineer Mr Adams from 
Portland was buried beneath the pile & instantly Killed. The ruins had to be removed before the 
body of the enigneer could be obtained. He has left a wife & one child to mourn his loss. No 


Page 189 




blame Could possibly be attached to him as the rail was raised in such a manner that no warning 
was given untill the engine & Baggage car was a pile of ruins. 

Mr Thomas Hall opened his house for the reception of the passengers & much praise is due to the 
whol household for the attention that was paid them. I spent most of the night here in the woods 
& got chilled through. They sent to Portland for another engine, which arived in time to take us 
to portland in the morning. 

/13th/ On my arrival I furnished the Editor of the American with an account of the accident. 

} I visited Br Ezra Carter & his family. I wrote 2 letters one to the Editor of the Boston Bee 
giving an account of the accident & one to Elder Taylor with an account of the accident & sent 
him 10 subscribers for the papers & wrote a few words to Phebe. 

I had an interview with Aunt Judith Carter. The first time I had seen her. I visited Ezras store. He 
is doing a good deal of business. 

I walked out to Scarborough in the evening & at [ ] arived at Father Carters in the evening 

with blistered feet. I came upon Mother so sudden who was walking across the room with a 
candle that she was as much surprised as though I had rained down. The first salutation was 
whare did you come from? I soon had hold of Fabyan hand & his wife's. Mother looked well. I 
dont see that she grows old any. Father and Sarah Foss are at New York. I cannot see them yet. 

After conversing with Mother & Fabyan untill abut 9 oclok I prayed with them & Mother lighted 
me to a bed in the front Chamber whare I spent the night alone, the first night I had spent at 
Father Carters without Phebe being with me, & I would have given ten dollars to have had her 
with me on this occasion for I felt lonely like a dove without its mate. But however after kneeling 
down by the bed & praying for her & the Children & our friends I lay down upon the bed & soon 
fell asleep & had a good nights rest. 

The whole distance of the day from Boston to Scarborough 110 miles. 

14th I arose refreshed by sleep. Took Breakfast with Mother, Mary & Rhoda Foss then got into a 
waggon with Fabyan, & rode to sister Foss whare I saw Elizabeth. Then Rode to Br Luther 
Scammans. Saw Luther & the Children & Mother Scammans but Rhoda was out. But she soon 
Come in & the manner she shook my hand & kissed me want slow. She is an affectionate sister. I 
took dinner with them. Br Scammans is expecting to come to Hancok co Illinois if not Nauvoo in 
the Spring. Rhoda now seems reconciled to come. Both Scammans with their wifes will come. I 
had a good visit with them. 

I then rode to Saco. Fabyan gave me a pair of Calfskin Boots shoes. 

We next Rode to Mr Millikens. Here I found Arthur & Lucy Milliken, & both home sick enough 
to get Back to Nauvoo. They rejoiced much to see me. Lucy was near her Confinement. Will stay 
untill spring. Was well both of them. We then started home. I Called upon Mr Makinny who with 


Page 190 




his wife sent much love to Phebe. We got home to Fathers in the evening quite chilled. Took 
supper prayed with the family & went to bed. Thought much of Phebe. O how I want to see her. 
Distance of the day 15 miles. 

15th I thought of taking the Cars for Boston but I could not bear the thought of going without 
seeing Father & Shuah. It was rather a gloomy day. The rain poured down like a torrent. I } wrote 
a letter to Sarah in as much as I could not see her. Mother took me about the house. Showed me 
her carpet that Iluse gave her & some dresses & all the rooms. I went Into the back Chamber 
whare Phebe has spent so many days with me, but it was vacant. She want there. It was gloomy. I 
turned away. I went to see the bark mill or New wind mill they had built. It is not large enough & 
it dont do well. Fabyan gave me soul leather for two pair of shoes for myself & Phebe & Willy & 
upper leather to take home. I walked out in the orchard. No apples ripe. 

Seasons growing shorter in Maine. I spent the night as usual alone. 

16th A plesent day. I wrote in my Journal & talked with mother. She done me up Babary & 
danda-lions to take to Phebe & she gave me three pair of stockings & four balls of yam for Phebe 
& one pair for the two Wilfords each. In the afternoon Arthur Milliken & Lucy Called upon us. 
The first time they had been to Father Carters. Luther Scamman & his Brother also came. We had 
a good time together. Lucy talked with Mother about Phebe. She gave me a letter to take to her 
Mother & wished me to call, & see her as soon as I get home. It seemed a great consolation to 
Lucy to see one from Nauvoo. I parted with them all abut sundown. 

I have just herd of the death of Elleezene Patterson who died to day. Left a child one week old. 
Also Capt Mark Lovett. Major Josiah Libby wife cut her throat to day. I believe she is not dead. 
Capt Benjamin Milliken & his wife is dead. So times go in Maine. All societies are nearly 
Broaken up, in this region. As concerning Ezras family He looks feeble & grows old. His wife is 
well. Ann Elizabeth is well & sends her love to Willy. 

I spent the evening conversing with Fabyan & Rhoda & Mother about Monnonism the principles 
of it the gathering &c. They seem to understand it putty well. Mother says if we follow the good 
spirit of the Blessed Jesus we will do well. The two Scare roans & Fabyan are Saints in Principle. 
Arthur thinks it would be a good time to build up a church here. We had prayers to gether. Spoke 
about Phebe's sicknes on the road several years since her recovery &c. 

I took my light & went to bed, fearing I should not see Father. But Just as I was about to Blow 
the light out I herd a waggon drive up. I Jumped out of Bed & dressed me & went down & shure 
enough thare was father as natural as life. I dont think that that he looks any older than when I 
saw him last. He was well in good health. I sat up & talked with him untill 1 1 oclok about a good 
many things & then went to bed & had a good night rest. 

17th Sunday Morning I arose & took breakfast with Father & Mother. It seemed quite natural to 
see Father at the Table again. Mary seems Better than she has done. I soon saw sister Foss 
coming along & I soon was saluted with the shake of the hand & a kiss. After setting awhile we 


Pagel91 




all went over to Sister Foss. She walked with me. Father & Mother rode. We had a plesent time. 

Soon Arthur Milliken came & brought me 14 copeys of the Doctrins & Covenants. I Paid him $4 
dollars & if they are sold for $1 each their will be $10 dollars due to sumbody. 

I had a visit from Nathaniel Googin. He seems to be a spiritual man. Had some light. We spent 
the afternoon in conversing about the Latter day work. He sends his respets to Phebe. 

I walked part of the way home with Father. I talked of taking Rhoda Foss home with me. Father 
said it would be well if I was a mind to do it. I am quite at a stand. Dont know what Phebe will 
say about it. 

I returned to sister Foss & spent the night. I conversed with her during the evening & Blessed 
her. She is strong in faith & desires to go to Nauvoo & intends soon to come & make a visit & 
stay as long as she pleases & Shuah is not vary well contented down east. Had rather come to the 
west. Their is quite a western fever in a number of our friends in Maine. 

18th I finished my letter to Shuah & sent it to her. I walked over to Fathers. Sister Foss sends two 
cards, a pair of stockings & a skein of yarn to Phebe and an apron. I found all at Fathers House 
well. Just as I was sealing my Letter to Shuah word came that Rhoda Scammans had a son bom 
yesterday Sept 17th 1843 at 4 oclock. All doing well. 

The time had now come for me to once more part with Father Carter & his household. Mother 
Said I must not have Rhoda Foss now for I had got one good girl & I must not have all the good 
ones so I left her & took the parting hand with them all, who sent much love to Phebe. Father 
took me into the waggon to carry me to Saco. 

I left mother standing in the door looking at me. I did not see one of John Fabyan’s family to 
speak to them. I Called at Sister Foss. Done up a few things took the parting hand &c with them 
all who also sent much love to Phebe & we rode to Luther Scamons & I here I found Rhoda abed 
with a little son all quite bright & smart making them four Children 3 sons & 1 daughter. I took 
dinner with them, & here Parted with Father for the last time. He thinks some of Comeing out 
west & bringing leather with him in the spring. 

At 3 oclok In the afternoon I parted with Rhoda, who the same as Sarah gave me a kiss for Phebe 
& the Children, to carry home with me. So when Phebe reads this journal she can partake in part 
of this visit with me & put me in mind of these things for which Purpose I have written them. 

I rode to Saco & Called to see Calvin who had commenced to leam the wheel wright trade. He 
said he liked the business. I saw Mr Nutter of Saco who sent his respect to S B Stodard his Father 
in Law. We then Rode to the Depo whare I found Arthur & Edward Milliken waiting for me. 
They showed me the Neighbor of Aug 30th rising of 20 deaths but none of my family & may the 
Lord preserve them I pray. The cars came along & I parted with the friends & went my way 
leaving the State of Maine behind me, & feeling that I had turned around & was on my way 
home. 


Page 192 




I passed through Porthsmouth & Newburybort & arived in Boston at 9 oclok & took a cab 
through Washington St to br Tuckers & spent the night with Elder J E Page. Distance of the day 
100 miles. 

} I Commenced a Letter to Phebe at her Fathers house. Cannot say when I shall finish it. 

Sept 19th It is a busy day in Boston. The Malitia of the country comes out. I walked out & see G. 
A. Smith & Br Phelps returned home & wrote in my Journals. In the afternoon I went on to the 
parade ground & saw the militias display, & sham fight &c. It was quite a splended appearance. 
Returned home quite weary. 

20th I spent most of the day in writing. In the evening I went to visit the selebrated Phenolo-gist 
O S. Fowler of Boston. He examined?] the heads of the Twelve. The following is the written 
Character he gave me: 


W. Woodruff 

Is a man of great action both phisical & Mental. Does up things in a hurry. Lets nothing sleeps in 
his hands. Great resolution. Steem Boat speeb. Loves his liberty. Is not bisposed to be subject to 
the /will or i dictations of others. Has great independance. Difficulties ownly stimulate to increas 
action. Goes in for the largest liberty of the mass. Is a democratt of the old school. Prefers utility 
to Beauty and substence to shadow show. Highly social. Fond of family & friends. Has few 
secrets of his own. Tells the plain unvarnished facts. Fears but little danger. Is not Irresolut. 
Desides & procedes at once to action. His first thoughts are always best. Does up his own 
religious thinking. Does not hang his hopes upon the faith of others. Believes but little without 
proof. Is a two edged sword. If he does not cut one way does another. He makes positive friends 
or positive enemies. Has much severity. Is sarcastic bitter in his reproaches. Means to do right. 
Feels the force of moral obligation. His jokes have more vinegar than Molasses in them. He 
recallects & explains facts well. Reasons By inferences from the facts, By analogy and induction. 
Has good talking talents. Is noted for his clear illustrations. 

Boston Sept 20, 1843 
(O S. Fowler) 

(B J Gray sect) 

21st } I finished my letter to Phebe & sent in it a copy of My Phrenological character & chart. I 
sent one subscriber for the Times & Seasons & mailed it. I had an interview with Elder E G. 
Terrill. I walked out in the evening. Returned home & spent the night. 

22d :)■ I wrote two Letters one to Mr Ann & Titus Mousley & the other a recommend to E P 
Magin to our Maine friends. I then took a walk with Elder G. A. Smith to Charleston. 

We first visited the Navy Yard of the U.S.A. Saw 500 heavy peics of cannon for shiping about 
200 bushel of Balls shot &c. Visited the dry dock. Saw the Vermont 90 gun ship of the line 


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Boston 22 guns, Cumberland 52 guns Sloop Prebble 16, Falmouth 24 guns cannonades &c. The 
shot on bord of these boats rate from 32 to 64 lbs. Walked on the wall out in the harbour round a 
part of the navy yard. Saw 30 guns mounted on the battery. Saw the sloop Plymouth now 
building 24 guns. Went on board of the steem frigate Missisippi of 16 guns. This with the steem 
ship Missouri is the ownly regular steem ships of war in the American Navy. We saw the 
Franklin of 74 guns. Visited the United States Rope walk in all its branches, which is carried by a 
steem engine of 40 Horse power. Length of the Rope walk is 1,360 feet. 

We next took dinner with sister James H Wingate comor of [ ] Charleston. 

I then visited Bunker Hill monument which is one of the most splendid colums in the world. I 
enter the tub & was drawn up by steem 220 feet whare I had a view of All Boston, Charleston 
Cambridge, Chelsea &c. I was carried down by steem the same as I went up. Bought a Book & 
paid 37 1/2 ct & 20 for going up. I went on to the embankment & sat down & rote an account of 
it. 

We next visited the States prision. Their was 262 prisioners at the various Branches of Business. 
After seeing each appartment we returned to Boston & in company with Brother & Sister Tucker 
& sister Bliss, I went to Br Dudleys in Salem St & met with the Saints for a prayer meeting. Yet 
the Time was occupied by the Twelve in addressing the Saints. Elder Page first spoke. Was 
followed by H. C. Kimball P. P. Pratt W. Woodruff & G. A. Smith in bearing testimony of the 
work & advising the Saints to support the Press. 

After meeting I took the parting hand with the Saints & returned to Br Tuckers who carried my 
traveling bag on his shoulder home. I spent the night with them & most of it in packing up my 
trunk & things. I lay abed abot 2 hours & got up in the morning. 

23d ($100) I Called upon Br Kimball who let me have $100 one hundred dollars on P P Pratt 
account to Purchase Paper with. I took Breakfast with Br Phelps, returned to Br Tuckers & took 
the parting hand with sister Tucker & sister Bliss. I had made it my home here & they had been 
vary kind to me. Sister Bliss had done my sewing made me a present of a pencil & pocket Bible 
&c. She was the ownly one of all her connextions who had embraced the gospel. She had a desire 
to come to Nauvoo & mingle with the Saints Be baptized for her dead &c. Br Tucker helped me 
to carry my trunk to the depo. I Bought tickets in the first class cars to west-field which Cost me 
$3.30. 

I parted with Br Tucker went into the cars & started. We passed through Worcester Springfield & 
stoped at Westfield & as I got out I found that Elder P. P. Pratt & E. Snow was in the Cars with 
me or the one before me & I did not know it. I parted with them. They went on home & I stoped 
at west-field. Got a waggon to take to Crooked river to Br Ashbel Dewey's whare I spent the 
night. Distance 100 miles. 

24th Sunday I spent the day at Crooked river & preached to the Saints twice & had a great time in 
the evening we rode 6 miles to see Elder Wooley. He had commenced preaching in a new place. 


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Br Rogers was with him. A number were believing. We returned home & spent the night. 
Distance 12 miles. 

25th I Parted with the Saints & Elder Dewey took his horse & waggon carried me to Staysbury to 
Sister Gossetts. I found them well & [in] the spirit of gathering to Nauvoo. We took dinner with 
them & Sister Betsey Gossett went with us to Farmington. We saw Horace Judd, Ahira Allen, & 
Henry Woodford on the way going through Avon. We found our friends in Farmington well as 
usual & growing better. I found a great change in Eunice. She was able to be about the house 
considerable & looked much better. Br Webster was also getting better. 30 miles. 

26th Sept Mother, Dwight & myself rode to Br James Hooker then to the Town House & home. I 
then rode with Betsey, Eunice, & Br Dewey to Br Ozem Woodruff. Found him in the faith 
strong. We were glad to meet. I went up to see Br Seth Woodruff at the paper mill. Unci Ozem is 
desireous to go to Nauvoo. We returned to Father Woodruff & spent the night. 8 miles. We had a 
good time in the evening with the Saints. 

27th Br Dewey & Sister Betsey left for home. [] We received a letter from Br Azmon. He & his 
family have all turned Millerites & is strong in the faith that Christ will come in 1843 . He 
manifests much weekness in his remarks on the subject. 

28th Sept ($100) I received one hundred dollars from Br Dwight Webster & gave him my notes 
for $150 one hundred & fifty dollars for which I am to give him a deed of the lot that I bought of 
Hiram Kimball which Bullard talked of having. 1 spent the day in writing. / / President Joseph 
Smith received his second Anointing this day./ 

29th 1 took the parting hand with Father Woodruff & his family & left them all doing well. 1 
spent the time the most agreeably on this visit of any one that 1 have had with them in these last 
days. 1 took Stage to New Haven. Left my baggage at Browns Tavern & walked to 
We[ir/ll?]sville & spent the night with Burr Frost. 32 m. 

30th Br Frost walked to New Haven with me & Bought $12.91 cts worth of Books for me. 1 then 
parted with him & took steem Boat for New York & arived at 6 oclok & Called upon Elder 
Foster 145 walker St & suped with him. Then walked with him to Br Rogers 67 franklin St. 1 
here found Elder B Young & Sister Cobb. They were well. Elder Young went home with us & 
spent the night with me. Distance of the day 75 m. 

October 

Oct 1st Sunday 1 preached twice in the Columbian Hall. Called upon llus in the morning. Had a 
rainy day. Took tea in the evening with Sister Ellen Foster. Returned in the evening & spent the 
night with Br Foster. /George Leach is the Presiding Elder./ 

2d We called upon Elder Vynell who went with us to a whole sale store & 1 bought the following 
Bill of goods: 


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3 1/4 yards Broad cloth for a suit of evryday $2.25 $7.3 1 

2 super Do Do for a nice coat & vest $3.50 $7.00 

1 superior Silk long Shawl for Phebe $3.00 

10 yards fancy Print for Phebe dress 10 $ 1 .00 

1 dog spools cotton .50 

$18.81 

Bought of L. R. Foster on T & S account 
1 Fir Cap for W Woodruff $8.00 

1 Fir Muff for Phebe W Woodruff $5.00 

1 do do for Phebe Amelia .62 1/2 

$13.62 1/2 

I Bought all of Stephens works for J Taylor. Paid cash. $8.00 


I returned home to Br Fosters & spent the day most of it in writing. I had a vary sore hand caused 
by a bite. 

3d I parted with Br Foster & took steem Boat in company with Br James Moses & arived in 
Philadelphia at one oclok. We stoped at No 12 Logan St at Br Hammers. 

I went in the evening with 5 of the quorum of the Twelve & several other Elders on a visit to Br 
/J B / Nickelsons, & then to my Jeffrys & took a supper of oysters & had a cheerful & interesting 
time. A number of Bottles of Sweet oil was consecrated. G. A. Smith administered to &c. 
Distance of the day 100 miles. 

4th □ I received a letter from Phebe. I was truly glad to hear from home again. Elder Taylor wrote 
some in it. The quorum of the Twelve started for Pittsburgh this day. I spent the day in running 
round the city looking for Paper & other Materials & was weary at night. Yet during the evening 
I accompanied Elders Grant & Winchester to an Elocution school which was interesting. I spent 
the night with Elder Grant. 

5th I left Philadelphia on the train of cars for Strasburgh to see Br John Neff. I stoped at 
Lummons place near Paradise. A large No of the Saints went on the cars this morning from 
Philadelphia to Nauvoo. I found Br Neff & his family all well but a dull prospect of getting 
money to buy my printing materials with which I much regret as I cannot go home without it. My 
prayer is that the Lord will open my way. I spent the night at Br Neff. Distance 85 mi. 

Oct 6th I must now spend several days here to see if Br Neff Can get me some money out of the 
bank which I shall not know untill monday. My hand has been vary painful & sore with my bite 
for a long time but is now begining to be a little better. 

7th It was a hard rainy day. I spent in writing & comenced to stoudy Jerman Steutier tiech. 


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8th It was still a rainy time. I wrot a peace in Sister Barbara Matilda Neff Album of which the 
following is a copy: 

Acrostick 

Behold theirs glories within thy reach o virtuous maid. 

Ah maintain thy faith for this generation will fade. 

Round thy bower salvation & peace shall twine 

Blessings surround thy head through the new Covenant divine. 

Attend O Barbara to that truth and that light. 

Round thy path it has shone by day and by night. 

And to the brightness of its rising Kings shall COME. 

* 

More blessed than most of thy sex thou art. 

As few have made thy choice which is the better part. 

Turn not to the gentile glories for thy peace or joy. 

Inspiration has told their doom they fall they die. 

Lean on thy God, let Zion be the joy of thy heart. 

Draw near her assemblies and with them share thy part. 

All nations who are wise will make her dwelling place their HOME. 

* 

Not all the gentile world the hand of God can stay. 

Escape from her wo, she has past her safest day. 

Fly from her midst for God has marked her doom. 

Flame and sword are near, she sinks, but Zion is thy HOME. 

Oct 7th 1843 Wilford Woodruff 

Oct 8th Sunday } * I commenced a letter to Phebe in answer to hers of [...] 13 of Sept. I wrote in 
it 14 verses of Poetry. I Preached in the evening to Br Neffs family 12 in number. Took a long 
lessen in steutier tych in the evening. 

9th Broth Neff has gone to the bank to see if he can get some money for me. I spent the day at his 
house writing & studying Jerman. Br Neff come home in the evening & said he had got $300 
dollars for me & it did my soul much good as it would liberate me from my trouble & enable me 
to get my paper & go home. 

10th I arose in the morning feeling well. I took the Parting hand with Br Neff & his family & 
rode in the waggon to the railroad. The passenger cars had passed so I had to take the freight cars 
& had to pay the fair twice. Then had to walk 4 miles to the city. I found Br J. M. Grant & O. 
Pratt. I called at No 12 Logan st & spent the night. Distance 85 m. 


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1 1th I Received $50 of James Pawson as a lone to be Paid the 1st of Jan. It has been a vary busy 
day with me in purchasing my Paper & materials for the office. Walked into business during the 
day. 10 miles. 

12th This has also been a vary busy day. I finished my purchase of materials for the Printing 
office &c. On the following page is a list of my purchase for the printing office. 

Paid cash for 30 Reams of Paper 24x38 $2.50 $75.00 


1 Bill of Binding materials $25.00 

1 Bill of Paper & Ink for printing office $278.27 

1 Bill of Binding materials $22.00 

for glue $5.12 

1/2 Book of Deep gold $4.00 

2 sprinkling Brushes $3.00 

freight to Pittsburgh 5367 at 87 1/2 ct per cwt $47.00 

Drayage 1.00 

$460.89 

paid cash for one travling trunk for self $11.50 

" 1 set of ten knives 1 .00 

1 Bill of paints for house $5.24 

1 Bill of goods for my family $14.13 1/2 

comstock on Elocution 1 .00 

Walker's Dictionary for my own use 1 .00 

cloth 3 yards satinnett for Wilford [013y?] 1.12 1/2 
1 Bottle for Phebe 6 Brush 12 pins 8 toys .34 

$35.34 


$460.89 

$496.23 

Paid cash for 1 lb thread for office .87 1/2 

13th I took all my freight to the depo had it weighed & got reciept for the safe delivery of it. I 
spent the day with Elders O. Hyde & Jedadiah M. Grant. Had a good time in the evening. We had 
a good supper of Oysters with Friend Jeffreys & spent the night with him. 

14th Took Cars with Elder Hiyde to the incline plain. I then left & went on to the portable canal 
boat in which was my goods. I went on board & took a section with two passengers & went on 
the railroad 100 miles then went into the canal. Here they filled with freight. We had to move 
into another section making 5 of us to live & sleep in about 5 feet squar. Two men viz Mr Miles 
Jacoby, & Thomas Barrett & their ladies Mrs Barrett was from keene N.H. & thought it hard 
travling. She made a good deal of sport for the company while making her bed &c. We rode 
during the night 40 miles making the whole distance of the day 140. 


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15th Sunday We rode about 30 miles from Har-risburgh & was stoped in consequence of a break 
in the Canal. About a dozen boats were stoped in a body. We all had to stay all night. We walked 
up to the break & went back & turned in & spent the night. 30 miles. 

16th The Break was finished & we started on at 12 oclok AM. We passed many boats. It was 
quite cool. We passed the Clark ferry coverd with a roof about one mile long a part of which was 
blown of. We also passed the river at the rope ferry which was quite a curiosity. We travled about 
60 miles during the day & night. 

17th A cold day among the mountains. We had a slight squal of hall or snow. * I have been for 
the last two days reading Stephens works & travels in Yucatan his second work. I red his first 
work on my Journey to Nauvoo with family in 1841. 1 found them highly interesting & also the 
present work. It is a great proof of the truth of the Book of Mormon. I read them with the highest 
degree of interest. 

18th We continued to Clime the mountains by locks. It is more mild than it was yesterday. I spent 
the day reading Stephens works. We came to the end of the canal east of the Allegany mountain 
in the evening. The road during the day was vary mountaineous. Was 47 locks in 30 miles. A 
good deal of the way was in the Juneatta river. 

We lay all night at Holladaysburgh. When we arived in the place we found it filled with soldiers 
and a large military encampment. Gov Porter of Pa had visited the place & the independant 
companies of malitia had turned out to meet him. ******* [Asterisks are Woodruff's .] 

19th This was one of the awful, fearful, dangerous, exciting, affecting, grand, sublime and 
interesting days Journey I ever took in my life. Our boat was drawn out of the canal on cars 
prepared to run on the railroad to convey us over the Alle-gany mountain which is a novel seene 
indeed. To see a canal boat taken apart into 4 sections loaded with freight & passengers & 
hoisted on a rail road by incline plains into the air 1,500 feet over the highest mountains & then 
desend into the valley below in the same way & evry rod is attended with the greatest danger & 
what adds dread to the [journey] is having earless men in attendance who seem indeferent bothe 
to their business & the lives of men, which was apparent during this days scene at least. 

But to the detail. Horses was hiched to our cars. Drew us four miles & a half. Then we come to 
the first incline plaine which we had to rise. Two cars wer fassened at the top of the plain to the 
same rope that ours was fassened to at the bottom. The engine was stationed in a building at the 
top of the plain that drew the cars up & down. When all was ready the signal was given by 
raising a red flag. The engine was put in operation & the cars started. This Plain was a half a mile 
long & raised 180 feet. We went up in 2 minutes, & I was truly thankful to reach the top for had 
the rope broak or fastning untied we should have rolled back to the bottom with a tremendious 
crash. 

We were then carried on to Plaine No. 2, which raised 125 [feet] in half a mile. Our boat rocked 


Page 199 




badly while going up but No accident hapened. 

We then continued on a level untill we came to the incline plane No 3. This was one mile & a 
quarter long & raised 320 feet which we went up in 4 minutes. Before we reached the top the 
safty car that was attached to our boat was flung from the track which draged many rods & flung 
the roap of the wheels for 10 or 12 rods. I made a signal to the engeneer who stoped & it was 
replaced. Here again we were in danger of breaking the rope which would have sent us back 
down the mountain more than a mile or turned us over into the yuwning gulf below. In eith[er] 
case we would have been dashed to atoms. 

My hare rose on my head, but having got all things ready we proceded on to plane No 4 3/4 of a 
mile long & assended 265 feet. We rose this in 3 min but it looked awful to be thus suspended 
almost in the air with such a wait lives and freight depending upon an not, a twine, a rope a pin 
an engine, care of a man either of which should give way all would be dashed to atoms unless 
saved by miracle. 

We next continued onto plain No 5 3/4 of a mile long 280 feet rise. We were carried up this also 
in 3 minutes, which brought us on to the summit of the Allegany mountains. 

The whole 5 incline plains on our assending the mountain are four miles in length which raises 
us perpendicular 1,170 feet & I felt thankful to God that I was on the top of the mountain alive. 

But we had got to desend in the same way that we assended. We run on the top of the mountain 
about 5 miles & then began to desend. We found snow on the top of the mountain & it was 
exeeding cold. We had 6 incline planes to desend to get to the bottom of the mountain, the whole 
of which was attended with equal danger, and carlessness. 

As we came upon the brink of one of them the Cars being drawn by horses, the men had left the 
breakers the conductor seeing the cars coming & about to run onto the Horses He hollowed for 
the men to break. But finding no one at the breakers & the cars approaching the incline plain the 
teamster liberated his horses as soon as possible & they Just escaped being run over & the 
conductor sprung to the breaker himself & with great exhertion merely saved it from runnin 
down the plain, which would have dashed it to attorns. 

I was standing in the cars at the time. I instantly flung my Cloak from my shoulders & prepared 
myself from leaping out of the cars in case it should start down the plain. In either case it might 
have killed me but I knew it was certain death to go down the plain. But through the mercy of 
God they were stoped before they began to desend. The whole distance was a constant scene of 
danger, & I called upon God in my heart to preserve my life. 

Even while on a level we were running on the edge of precpices hundreds of feet deep which if a 
wheel should break or run off the track the cars would shurely be plunged down the precepiece 
which would make an end of all flesh that was on board. 

We passed through one tunnel in the mountain & when we reached the bottom of the incline 


Page200 




plaines I felt thankful to God & felt that we were mostly out of danger. 

But they put the boat to gether & started it on the rail with all on board without horse or steem 
and the rail road being a little desending it increased in speed untill it run at a rapid rate & was 
still in danger of upsetting. It run of itself 4 miles untill it came to the canal whare it was to take 
water & here again to finishe the day with danger a train of cars was left in our track & with all 
the power that could be exherted on the breaks we bearly mised of having a smashe up at last, we 
finally got rolled into the water alive with no bones broakn or lives lost & for one I had a glad 
heart. 

While conversing with the mate in the evening on the subject he remarked that we were not 
sensible of one half of the danger that we were in during the procedings of that day. But I was 
sensible of a good deal at least. We got into the canal about dark being 36 miles from canall to 
canal in crossing the mountains. We travled all night in the canal which was one constant seene 
of locks. 

20th The boat I was on was the Robroy owned & commanded by Capt Bennett of the line of 
Gregg & Bellows & Co. We saw the Captains fann & stoped 30 minutes at it. We passed through 
the tunnel on the canal under a mountain 900 feet long arched overhead. 

21st We arived in Pittsburgh at 10 oclock AM. & unloaded our freight at the wharf. I called upon 
several of the Brethren those in Strawbury lane & Br Savory the Presiding Elders Wellingford & 
Taylor was the house whare my goods was left. The whole distance from Philadelphia to 
Pittsburgh was 400 miles. 

I immediately went on board of the Alps and ingaged my freight Carried to St Louis for 30 cts 
per cwt & I took it all on board & went on myself & started at 5 o-clok. Got to Beaver. Saw Elder 
E Snow with a company of about 50 Saints. 

22d Sunday Left Beaver & rode to wheeling & spent the night. I finished reading Stephens 
travels & found them highly interesting. Elder E Snow & his company took passage on the North 
Bend. I took deck passage on the Alps. The deck was crowded to overflowing. 

23d Left wheeling at half past 9 oclok. I learned this morning that I was travling in the midst of a 
family of the Saints By the name of Wm. R. Durphy a family that I was acquainted [with] in 
england Canida in 1838. They appeared glad to find me out. We traveld well through the day but 
the boat was so crouded that half the people could not lie down or hardly sit down. I had the good 
fortune to get a bunk for myself But I gave it up for two of the sisters with children. I parted with 
Friend Jacova and his wife about 10 oclock in the evening who were landed home. We had been 
together all the way from Philadelphia. He was believing in our doctrin. 

24th The morning piesant & fair. Sun shines Bright But our company is vary thi[ck?]. 

25th It is a rainy morning. I was not well. I was nearly rosted out with a hot stove & the deck was 
stoved so thick with Black & white male & female that they could scarsly s[tand?]. 


Page201 




Arived in Cincinnati at 1 1 'oclok. Called upon Br Baker in Elm st Between 5 & 6 st. I Bought a 
stove of him for $26, for which I gave him my note payable in two months. 

26th Got all of my freight on board of the Govornor Brethrett and she started at 1 oclok loaded 
down to the goards & crowded to overflowing. Paid fare on the Alps to St Louis $2.50. Had a 
rainy damp [ ] & a snow stonn through the night. 

27th Arived in Louisville at 4 oclok in the morning. I visited Kelloggs paper ware house. Bought 
a bottle of writing ink 54 cts 1[8]44 Almanac $2.00. 1 visited Morton & Griswold Paper 
Warehouse the largest one in the city & Bought 3 quire of marble paper at 75 cts pr qr $2.25. Got 
their samples of paper & prices. Can do better than in the eastern market considering freight &c. 

Returned to the Boat. Remained in Louisville untill 8 oclok in the evening being 16 hours in 
Louisville before we Cleared the locks. I never was in a worse mess to travel with. We had a cold 
night. 

28th A plesent morning but cool. Travel well through the day. Word got into the Cabin that I was 
a mormon as is called & a preacher & many came to see me. Mr Walker of 111 was one & Mr J 
Abel came down after I was in bed & asked me many questions about Joseph Smith & 
monnonism the plates &c. These things was the topic of conversation continually on the river. I 
Bunked part of the time with a missouri Baptist Priest. I have taken Cold & some reumatism as 
their is a stream of water running near my head on the wall. 

29th Sunday I arose in the morning with my Reumatism griping me through the sholdiers. Mr 
Abel was ready to renew the subject of monnonism & when he had done others commenced. We 
reached the mouth of the ohio about 1 oclock & I was glad to get so near home. I am getting tierd 
of a deck passage. About sun set we pasted Cario. Past two Boats that were aground the Harry of 
the west & the walnut Hills. We struck the bar going over. 

30th We took a boat in tow & travled slow. 

3 1st Travled slow through the day. 


November 

Nov 1st We arived in St Louis at 4 oclok in the morning & was glad to get so far. 

I made a bargain with Capt Glaim, master of the Sarah Ann to take my freight to Nauvoo for 20 
cts per cwt but he said he could not wait for me longer than 10 oclock & I had to wait untill 150 
tons of freight was removed before I could get mine & I laboured & toiled hard to get my freight 
out but did not accomplish it untill 4 oclok in the Afternoon & the Captain crowding me evry 
moment. 

I had but little time to do any thing in St Louis but I bought a bill of articles for my family & 
house that amounted to about $10 & got evry thing safe on board of the Sarah Ann & started for 


Page202 




Nauvoo with a large keel boat in tow both loaded down with freight & passengers. I tore my 
fingers badly with a rope gitting out a box. I found Elder Rushton & his wife on board. We 
stoped on the biler deck. We had a rainy night. I took cold. 

2d We had a rainy day. Rushton preached in the evening. 

3d Left freight at Hamilton & quincy. I stoped at quincy & bought a saw $1.50 sundries $2.00. 
Left freight at Warsaw & keokuck. Took lighters to go over the rapids. I went upon the keel & 
Arived at Nashville & I spent the night with Br Asahel Smith & was glad to see any of the Saints 
again. Had two hard characters to contend against who were opposing the fulness of the gospel. I 
bore testimony to them of the truth of the work. 

4th Steem Boat arived in the morning. Took their freight out of the lighters into the steem Boat & 
went to Montrose. Stoped several hours & crossed to the landing at the upper Stone house in 
Nauvoo & the Lord knows if ever a soul was thankful to tread the soil of Nauvoo it was myself. I 
felt liberated as from a prision. I found Br Elias Smith on the shore ready to receive me & also 
other which I was glad to see. 

I had to Pay $3 for Elder Rushton to get his goods on shore & I had to Pay 2 1/2 cts more on a 
hundred for freight than the agreement in consequence of the sermon Preached by Elder Rushton. 
But I got all my goods on shore safe & 4 teams loaded down accompanied me to the printing 
office whare I found my wife & children all well except Phebe Amelia who was troubled with 
the bowel complaint but all looked Cheerful & comfortable. We tumbled our Boxes into the 
house & I spent the evening with my family. Once more I took pleasure in presenting to my wife 
& Children some articles of clothing & necessaries which I had brought home. Distance from 
Pittsburg to Nauvoo 1500 miles. 

Nov 5th Sunday I went to meeting to the temple. Found the walls had been reared several feet all 
around during the 4 months of our absence. Elder S Rigdon Preached. During the day I visited 
many old acquaintances. Laid hands upon some that were sick & returned home & spent the 
night. 

6, 7, 8, 9 & 101 spent this week looking after my affairs. I found them in a bad situation. My 
house that I had Commenced before I left which I expected would hav been reared with its roof 
on I found ownly reared a few feet from the ground on the first story. I spent the week in making 
prepe-rations to carry on the work. I have found by experience that a mans business will not 
prosper as well when he is absent as present. 

/7th I attended a Council with the 12. Was appointed a committee with J. Taylor P.P. Pratt & B 
Young to raise $1,500 to Buy paper to print the Book of Covenants./ 

Nov 1 1th 1843 (WW PW) During the evening I walked over to Br Taylors & spent some time in 
conversing about the principle of the Celestial world or some of them. Br Hiram Smith was in 
with us & presented som ideas of much interest to me concerning Baptism for the dead, the 


Page203 




resurrection redemption & exhaltation in the New & everlasting covenant that reacheth into the 
eternal world. 

He sealed the marrige Covenant between me & my wife Phebe W. Carter for time & eternity & 
gave us the principle of it which was interesting to us. After spending the evening plesantly we 
returned home & spent the night. 

12th Sunday } I wrote in company with Br Elias Smith 3 letters one to Br John Hardy one to Br 
George T. Leach of New York & one to Br Jedadiah M. Grant of Philadelphia making request of 
them to centre their means into the hands of Br Grant of Philadelphia to pay a debt of $75. 

13th I Commenced work again on my house with the masons. 

14 15 16 17 & 18 Was spent vary busy in laying brick on my house. We finished the first story 
on Saturday the 18th. 

19th Sunday I have been quite unwell for several days. I have worked to hard for several days. I 
spent this day in writing my Journal. 

20th Still felt quite unwell but went to the house & assisted in getting the Joice on the second 
story of the house. 

21st I still felt feble. The masons Commenced laying Brick on the second story. I was at the 
house some part of the day. 

22d * I setteled with Francis Pullin and P Colton & took their recipt in full for all demands up to 
this date. I gave them my due Bill for $29.42 on the Printing office. The Bill of Brick I had of 
Pullin was 14,574 Brick which amounted to $88.65. Bill for fixing the house $1 1.44 cts. My Bill 
against them was $ 100.09 

$70.67 

Balance due them was $29.42 

I laboured hard through the day. I set my window frames in the second story in the fore part of 
the day 5 in Number. 

23d It was a rainy morning. I felt unwell. 

24th It was a cold rainy day. Could not work on the house. 

25th We set three window frames in the Back Story second & laid up about 3 feet of Brick. 

I was called in the evening to a Council with the Twelve. When I arived at Joseph Smith's Store I 
found the High Council sitting on a case of Harrison Sagers for some improper Conduct or offer 
towards some female. 

At the close President Joseph Smith made an address upon the subject which was highly 
interesting & its tendency was to do away with evry evil & practice virtue & Holiness before the 


Page204 




Lord. That the Church had not received any license from him to commit adultery fornication or 
any such thing but to the contrary if any man Commit adultery He Could not receive the 
Ceslestial kingdom of God. Even if he was saved in any kingdom it could not be the Celestial 
kingdom. 

He said he thought the many examples that had been manifest John C Bennet & others was 
sufficient to show the fallacy of such a course of conduct. He condemned the principle in toto & 
warned those present against going into those evils, for they would shurely bring a Curse upon 
their heads. 

After meeting Joseph Smith met the the Twelve & infonned us that General Fryes on was in 
town & wished an interview with us. He had come for the purpose of getting a memorial written 
to congress but it was late & we had not time during the evening so we dispersed. 

26th Sunday After setting my affairs in order I went to President Joseph Smith house & found 
Presidents Joseph Smith & Hiram Smith, with the quorum of the Twelve in council with General 
Fryason before whome was read the affadvits of Hiram Smith, B Young, P. P. Pratt Lyman 
Wight George W. Pitkin & Sidney Rigdon & spent the day in conversing about these things. 

27th I visited various parts of the town. It was a cold day. I visited Br Hammer who has just got 
up the comb busines. I saw some specemins of his work which was good. 

* I sold Wm. Parsons one half of the lot I bought of him east of the Temple for $45 dollars. He 
has the stable & I the part containing the house. 

28th 29 & 30 Spent the Time about the city in various kinds of business. 

December 

Dec 1st 1843 I Commenced work at my gangway doors & cleaning out my sullars. * I was sued 
in company with J Taylor By M Madison for a debt of about $40. The first time that I was ever 
sued in my life. 

^ Dec 2d 1843 Seventh Day morning I felt quite unwell yet I met with the quorum & 
conversed upon a variety of subjects among which were the progress of the work of God & the 
emegration of the Saints, the light blessings & glory that awaiteth Zion & the blessings that 
approach those who keep the Law of God. Truth & virtue will bring exhalta-tion to the soul in 
the security of knowledge while Bigotry & superstition will Join vice in debasing man in 
ignorance untill he degrades humanity & looses the objet for which he was created. /P P. Pratt 
Orson Hyde W Woodruff G A Smith & O Spencer all of us received our Anointing preperitory 
for further Blessings from 1 oclk to 6 PM./ 

[ ] 

Dec 3d Sunday I met with the quorum & herd an address deliverd by President Joseph Smith. 


Page205 




The fore part of the day was taken up on the appeal to the green mountain boys. It was read by 
W. W. Phelps & [was] consecrated & dedicated unto God by the quorum. The latter part of the 
day was taken up by instructions from President Smith & remarks from others. President Hiram 
Smith injured his leg by a fall. I was quite unwell. We were both prayed for. I received a 
blessing. 

4th I was quite unwell. Our suit with Madison was put off two days. I was Confined to the house 
most of the day. 

5th I was still quite unwell with a bile on the cords of my neck. I had taken Cold in it. 

6th Our case with Madison came on to day. Elias Smith attended to it for us. Confessed 
Judgment which let the debt run 70 days. It was merely $46 dollars. I began to get a little better in 
health. 

7th Their is no little stir made in the world in consequence of the progress of the Latter Day 
Saints. A messenger has Just arived from St Louis informing us that the Governor of Mo. has 
isued another writ for President Joseph Smith & is about to make an appeal or demand of the 
Governor of Illinois. 

President Joseph Smith has made an affecting appeal to the Green Mountain Boys of Vermont 
for assistance in obtaining redress of his wrongs in the persecutions of Missouri. We published it 
in Pamphlet form & sent it to the various authorities of the United States. 

8th The City Counsel was called & passed an ordinance the purpose of which was that any 
person henceforth that should come with a writ to take Joseph Smith on the old Missouri 
difficulty should be imprisioned in the City Joal for life unless pardoned by the Governor with 
the consent of the Mayor. We published it on an extra sheet of the Neighbor & sent that abroad 
also. Sister Cornelia Divine commenced labour with us this day. 

9th We met in council at the store with the quorum. Elders W. W. Phelps Levi Richards & C 
Lott met with us. /Received their Anointing./ 

Their was a meeting of the citizens in general & the ordinance passed yesterday was read before 
the multitude & speaches made by several persons the last of which was President Joseph Smith 
who gave an interesting address to the assembly. Spoke of our persecution, the manner that our 
rights & liberties had been trampled upon & that it was time it was stoped. They all sanctioned 
the speach of the general & were dismissed in good order & returned to their homes. 

10th Sunday I spent the day at home. Elder G. A. Smith & his wife spent the day with me. 

In the evening I met with the quorum. Br Joseph was not present. B Young was Called to the 
Chair who addressed the meeting in a vary feeling manner & interesting to our minds. He 
reasoned Clearly that we should follow our fde leader & our savior in all his law & 
commandments without asking any questions why they were so. He was followed by P. P. Pratt 


Page206 




& others who expressed their minds freely. Several sick were Prayed for. 

1 1th I spent the day at home. 

12, 13, 14, & 15 1 spent the week at work on my house. 

16^1 met with the quorum. President Young & others took the lead of the meeting. 

17th I met with the quorum. Br Samuel Smith met with us. /Received his first anointing./ 
President Joseph Smith met with us also. We received good instruction. 

18th A short time since Br Daniel Avery and his son Philander Avery were both kidnaped by 
some Missourians & other mob men from Illinois & taken to Missouri and put in prision. One of 
the kidnapers a schoolmaster was taken with a warrent & brought to Nauvoo & had his trial this 
day before squair Johnson. His name was Elliot. He was bound over to county court under 
$3,000 dollar bonds. 

He was then taken with another warrent for threatning President Smith life which charge was 
also proven against him but President Smith forgive him, & he was finally discharged on that 
case. President Smith made an eloquent speech upon the subject. Manifested mercy towards his 
enemies when they were in his power. But he lifted up his hands towards heaven & declaired that 
if Missouri came against us any more he would fight them & defend his rights. 

19th A warrant was also issued against Col Williams who was the leader of the kidnaping scrape 
but he had gatherd a mob around him & swore defiance against the law or comeing to Nauvoo. 

So the officers returned to Nauvoo for Council assistance & c. 

20th 211 spent the time to work on my house. 

22d I worked exeeding hard with the expection of finishing the brick work of my house. I had 6 
masons 5 tenders & 2 carpenters but we did not quite finish it. I went home & went to bed sick & 
I had a dredful sick night. 

23d Saturday I arose in the morning quite unwell. I walked with Mrs Woodruff to President 
Smiths. I met with the quorum through the day. Mrs Woodruff & several other sisters were 
present. Br & sister Morley &c. 

/O Pratt Sisters Lot Fanny M[urr./orr.?] P. W. Woodruff Bathsheba W. Smith Sister O. Spencer 
Sister Phelps received their Anointing./ 

24th Sunday I Preached in the fore part of the day at Br David Fulmers. In the afternoon I met 
with the quorum of High Priest in company with Elder G. A. Smith. I addressed the quorum for 
about one hour and was followed by Elder G. A Smith. I had the liberty of speach. In the 
evening I again met with the quorum in Company with Mrs Woodruff. We recieved some 
instruction concerning the Priesthood. 


Page207 




25 CHRISTMAS DAY A large Party met at the Nauvoo Mansion & had A splendid dinner and 
supper and spent a long evening. 

I was invited By Elder R. Allexander to meet the Tennessee Saints at his house in company with 
my own family. I did so & found Br Smoot & family Br Allexander & family & Sister Petty & 
family. We had a social interesting time together. We had a good feast & spent the evening in 
conversing about the things of God. 

26th Spent the day about town getting materials for the roof of my house. 

27th I spent the day at home. Their was a lecture deliverd on music By a stranger at Joseph store 
in the evening. 

28th Mrs Woodruff was sick this morning. I went to the mill for my sheeting but did not get it. I 
attended meeting in the evening with Elder Young on the flat. We had the house full and a good 
time. The following are some of the items of doctrin that Elder Young presented: 

* Be subject to the powers that be. Our sufferings are that we may learn by experiance the 
principle of contrast between good and evil. In order to obtain Power never suffer anger to find a 
seat in your breast. Never get angry at all. Treat all mildly. Govern yourself your passions & it 
will give you power. When the Temple is done I expect we shall be baptized, washed anointed 
ordained, & offer up the keys & signs of the priesthood for our dead that they may have a full 
salvation & we shall be a saviors on mount Zion acording to the Scriptures. 

/* I Procured 65 subscribers for the T & S & Neighbor while east & 10 in Nauvoo making in all 
75 subscribers./ [ Asterisk is Woodruffs .] 

29th I spent the time about town. 

30th I drew 900 feet of sheeting to my house & some floor Boards. I met in council in the 
afternoon & herd a lecture deliverd on principle which was truly interesting & edifying. 

3 1st Sunday and the last day of the year I Preached at Br Abers in the morning & had a good 
time. I met with the High Priest & spoke a few moments & was followed by Elder B Young. I 

met in council In the evening & was interested. 


A Synopsis of the travels and labours of W Woodruff in AD 1843 


Traveled in 13 of the United States 
Held 

Attended Conferences & Councils 
Baptized 


5,171 miles 
26 meetings 
20 

6 persons 


Page208 




Confirmed 10 persons 

Ordained 5 Elders 

Blessed 15 Children 

Administered unto the sick 25 

Wrote 25 Letters 

Recieved 12 Letters 

Married 2 Persons 

I Reported an recorded in this Journal seven interesting 
discourses from Joseph the Seer 7 Reported 
I Reported & recorded eight sermons of the Twelve 

8 Reported 

I spent most of the time in company with Elder 
Taylor in attending to the Printing office during 
the past year in printing the Times & Seasons & 

Nauvoo Neighbor. I Procured 75 subscribers for the 
T&S&NN 75 subscribers 

Wilford Woodruffs Daily Journal and History in 1844 

January 

JAN 1ST 1844 


Eighteen hundred forty four enters the stage with a Cold blustering rain stonn. I spent the day 
plastering and white washing the printing office. I spent a few moments however in planting 
some choice stones in my garding. I planted 4 Apricotts, 13 Plums, 1 1 Shugar Cherry & 30 
choice peach stones. 

President Smith had a large Company at his house as he did on the eve of Christmas. 

2d A light snow storm through the day. I spent the day in posting Books in preparing accounts for 
settlement. 

3d A Court of inquiry was held at Joseph Store concerning Win. & Wilson Laws & Wm. Marks 
who had herd some reports from the police against their interest but all proved a fals report. /Wm 
Law professed to believe that Joseph Smith had instructed the policee to kill him but it was 
without foundation. / 

4th Another court of inquiry was held upon the same subject of the one yesterday but all 
terminated in report without foundation. /Wm. & Wilson Law were traitors to Joseph and were 
seeking his life. History sayes this court was on the 5th./ 


Page209 




5th We had a snow storm commenced in the evening. I spent the time settleing accounts. 

6th Is several inches of snow on the ground. I went to the upper landing after wood. 

Jan 7th 1844 Sunday Elder Hale Came with his sleigh & took myself & wife Brs Smith & 
Morgan on to the Hill & I preached to a full house at Br Abers, & had a good time. We dined at 
Br Hales & Father & Mother Boyontons. At 3 oclck I attended another meeting & preachd at the 
house of Br Cheese, after which Mr Boynton took us home. 


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Mrs Woodruff and myself met with the quorum and we had an interesting time of instruction. * I 
spoke during the day upon the relationship that we sustained towards our Progenitures & 
posterity in the resurrection of the dead. ^ We returned home offered up our prayers ^ for the 
salvation of our friends & retired to rest. 

8th Spent the day but done but little. 

} 9th I wrote 2 Letters one to Br Neff & one to Br Baker of Cincinnati. 

10th } ^ I wrote 3 Letters one to Dwight Webster & father Woodruffs family & one to Aunt 
Cos-setts family & one to Luther Scammans. 

1 1th Spent the day in writing. 

12th Spent the day at home. 

13th The City Council met & treated upon the Subject of granting licence for retailing liquors. 
President Smith addressed the Council a number of times. 


Page210 





I commenced shingleing my house this day. Let the Job to John Gray for $12. The Cornish Cost 
$22, the tin gutter $7. 

Jan 14th Sunday I preached in the morning at Br Haws. In the evening I met with the quorum 
of the Twelve. Conversed upon a variety of subjects building the Temple, the endowment &c. 
Some good ideas advanced. 

15th * * The Citizens of Nauvoo made a bee for Choping wood for President Joseph Smith on 

his land north of the city. I went up with them & found about two hundred axman on the ground 
& from thirty to forty teams. About 100 loads of wood was drawn to the house of the Presidents 
& as many more left on the ground to be drawn another day. I swung an ax during the day & was 
lame during the day night. 

16th I had a pig in the sullar & I believe the devil got into him. He leaped out of the pen 
destroyed one Jar of Butter one Jar of lard scattered ashes all over the sullar & kapered about 
over the Com. I gave him a dismissal from the sullar and never saw him afterwards. 

16 17 18 & 19th I spent the time about home settleing my accounts &c. I ascertained during this 
time that Elder John Taylor bought the Printing office of President Smith & wished to come in & 
take possession of it. So I must now settle all my accounts & return back to my own habitation. 

20 Spent the day settelling accounts. In the evening I met with the quorum in the evening & 
had an interesting time. (H.C.K) (V.K.) Received their second Anointing &c. 

Jan 21st 1844 Sunday I met with the congregation of the Saints at the Temple & herd an 
inter-estin discourse deliverd by President Joseph Smith. In the afternoon I preached to a 
company of Saints at the house of Br Coolage & had a good time. 

I met with the quorum in the evening. Had an interestin time. Many good exhortation were 
given by the brethren concerning the things of God. (P.P.P.) Received his 2d Anointing. Joseph 
said Concerning Parley P Pratt that He had no wife sealed to him for Eternity and asked if their 
was any harm for him to have another wife for time & Eternity as He would want a wife in the 
Resurrection or els his glory would be Cliped. Many arguments He used upon this subject which 



Jan 2 1st Sunday * A large assembly of Saints met at the Temple And herd an interesting discours 
deliverd By President Joseph Smith. The following is a synopsis of his discourse upon the 
occasion: 

When I consider the surrounding circumstances in which I am placed in this day, standing in the 
open air with week lungs & sumwhat out of health, I feel that I must have prayers & faith of my 


Page21 1 




brethren that God may strengthen me & pour out his special blessings upon me if you get much 
from me this day. 

Their are many people assembled here, to day & throughout this city, & from various parts of the 
world who say that they have recieved to a certainty a portion of knowledge from God by 
revelation in the way that he has ordained & pointed out. I shall take the broad ground then that if 
we have or can receive a portion of knowledge from God by immediate revelation by the same 
source we can receive all knowledge. 

What shall I talk about today? I know what Br Cahoon wants me to speak about, he wants me to 
speak about the comeing of Elijah in the last days. I can see it in his eye. I will speak upon that 
Subject then. The Bible says "I will send you Elijah before the great & dredful day of the Lord 
Come that he shall turn the hearts of the fathers to the Children & the hearts of the children to 
their fathers lest I come & smite the whole earth with a Curse." Now the word turn here should 
be translated (bind or seal). 

But what is the object of this important mission or how is it to be fulfilled? The keys are to be 
deliverd the spirit of Elijah is to come, The gospel to be esstablished the Saints of God gatherd, 
Zion built up, & the Saints to come up as Saviors on mount Zion. But how are they to become 
Saviors on Mount Zion? By building their temples erecting their Baptismal fonts & going forth & 
receiving all the ordinances, Baptisms, confirmations, washings anointings ordinations, & sealing 
powers upon our heads in behalf of all our Progenitors who are dead & redeem them that they 
may come forth in the first resurrection & be exhalted to thrones of glory with us, & herein is the 
Chain that binds the hearts of the fathers to the Children & the Children to the Fathers which 
fulfills the mission of Elijah & I would to God that this temple was now done that we might go 
into it & go to work & improve our time & make use of the seals while they are on earth. 

And the Saints have none to much time to save & redeem their dead, & gather together their 
living relatives that they may be saved also, before the earth will be smitten & the consumption 
decreed falls upon the world & I would advise all the Saints to go to with their might & gather 
together all their living relatives to this place that they may be sealed & saved that they may be 
prepared against the day that the destroying angel goes forth & if the whole Church should go to 
with all their might to save their dead seal their posterity & gather their living friends & spend 
none of their time in behalf of the world they would hardly get through before night would come 
when no man Could work. 

And my ownly trouble at the present time is concerning ourselves that the Saints will be divided 
& broken up & scattered before we get our salvation secure. For their is so many fools in the 
world for the devil to operate upon it gives him the advantage often times. 

The question is freequently asked can we not be saved without going through with all thes 
ordinances &c. I would answer No not the fulness of Salvation. Jesus Said their was many 
mansions in his fathers house & he would go & prepare a place for them. House here named 
should have been translated (Kingdom) & any person who is exhalted to the highest mansion has 


Page212 




to abide a celestial law & the whole law to. 


But their has been a great difficulty in getting anything into the heads of this generation. It has 
been like splitting hemlock knots with a com doger for a wedge & a pumpkin for a beetle; even 
the Saints are slow to understand. I have tried for a number of years to get the minds of the saints 
prepared to recieve the things of God, but we free-quently see some of them after suffering all 
they have for the work of God will fly to peaces like glass as soon as any thing Comes that is 
Contrary to their traditions. They cannot stand the lire at all. How many will be able to abide a 
Celestial law & go through & recieve their exhaltation I am unable to say but many are called & 
few are Chosen. 

[ ] 

Jan 22d I met with the quorum of the twelve at President B Youngs house & spent the evening 
and conversed upon a variety of subjects. Had a good time in expressing our views upon 
religious subjects. 

23 I attended the Nauvoo Lyceum in the evening in company with Mrs Woodruff. 

[ 1 

24th I preached at Br Haws house in the evening. Had the spirit of the Lord & an interesting time. 

25th Met with the quorum of the Twelve ? at President Youngs house. Had a good prayer 
meeting. (OH) Br Orson Hyde was present. Had not met with us for some time. Orson Hyde 
Received his 2d Anointing. 

26 I met with the Twelve this evening Also at Br B. Youngs time was spent in exhortation 
mostly. (OP) Spoke & we were edefyed. Elder O. Pratt Received his 2d Anointing. 

27th The quorum met for a meeting in the evening at Joseph Store. Had a number of prayers 
& exhortations upon the subject of holiness of hart &c. {WR} {&} {JR} Br & Sister Richards 
were present. They had both been unwell for a number of days before but wer able to attend 
meeting this evening & seemed to enjoy themselves well. They had received blessings by the 
prayer of faith. Willard & Jenette Richards Received their 2d Anointing and sealing. 

JAN 28th 1844 Sunday This was quite a remarkable day to me & my family in some respects. 
Weather vary Cold. Thermometer 15 degrees below Zero. I commenced in the morning to 
prepare to devote the day to write my friend. It being vary Cold I set a pot of Chaircoal in the 
bedroom to warm it. I shaved, washed & changed my cloths. Phebe done the same ie change her 
clothing & while we were their the effects of the Chaircoal nearly overpowerd us. It made us 
most sick. We took the coal out. Aired the room. But it made us so sick we had to go to bed upon 
it. However we had not lain long before Phebe Amelia our little girl fell over in the Chair & 
nearly smashed her nose. Blood flew over her. After we had attended to the child Mrs Woodruff 
had to returned to her bed. We then had Prayers together before the Lord & asked for such things 


Page213 




as we kneeded. I laid hands upon her & she was healed & attended to the business of the family. 

I met with the quorum of the Twelve and others for instruction. Mrs Woodruff and myself 
were both some unwell from the effects of the coal during the day. Yet we had an interesting 
time. 

{WW} {PWW} I Wilford Woodruff and Phebe W. Woodruff both recieved a benefit by Prayers 
and laying on of hands. The Subject of Elijah's coming to seal the hearts of the fathers to the 
Children &c was spoken of. Seal the hearts of the children to the fathers Malachi IVth Ch. 6 vers. 

| / | \ /Wilford & Phebe W Woodruff receivd our 2d Anointing & sealings./ 

29th Monday I met in the evening at Elder B Youngs for a Prayer meeting but few of us to 
gether. 



Click to view full size image. 


30 Met with the quorum at Elder Youngs for a meeting. { JT} {LT} Br & Sister John Taylor 
was with us. Br Taylor made some appropriate remarks unto edifycation. /J Taylor & Leonora 
Taylor Received their 2d Anointing & sealing./ 

3 1 Their is quite a revival throughout Nauvoo & enquiring after the things of God by all the 
quorums & Church in general. I met with the quorum of Twelve this evening at Elder Youngs & 
had a good time. {GAS} {BS} Br & Sister G A Smith was present this evening /And Received 
their 2d Anointing & Sealing/. They have been quite unwell. 

February 


Page214 




Feb [ 1] I spent the day painting & drawing my arches in the front of my house & geting my roof 
on. 

2d I spent the day to work on my house. I met with the quorum for Prayer &c at Elders 
Youngs. {WW} {SP} Br & Sister Wm. W. Phelps attended with us. Br Phelps spoke Concerning 
his appointment as a Lawyier in Israel. /Brother & Sister Wm. W Phelps Received their 2d 
Anointing & sealing. / 

Feb 3d 1844 I walked into President Joseph Smith Store or office over the store & spent a few 
moments in conversing with Elders W Richards And Wm. W. Phelps & President Joseph Smith 
Came into the room & Said he had a dream & related it to us which was as follows: 

* I was standing on a peninsula in the midst of a vast body of water whare their appears to be a 
large harbor or a peer built out for boats to Come into. I was surrounded by my friends & while 
looking at this harbor I saw a Steem boat approaching the harbour. Their was bridges on the peer 
for persons to cross & there came up a wind & drove the steem boat under one of the bridges & 
upset it. I run up to the boat expecting the persons would all drowne. And wishing to do 
sumthing to assist them I put my hand against the side of the boat & with one surge I shoved it 
under the bridge & righted it up & then [I] told them to take care of themselves. But it was not 
long before I saw them starting out into the channel or main body of the water again. The storms 
were raging & the waters rough. I said to my friends that if they did not understand the signs of 
the times & the spirit of Prophecy they would be apted to be lost. It was but a few moments after 
when we saw the waves break over the boat & she soon founderd & went down with all on board 
& perished. 

The storm & waters were still vary rough. Yet I told my friends around me that I believed I could 
stem those waves & storm & swim in the waters better than the steem boat did & at any rate I 
was detennined to try it. But my friends laughed at me & told me I Could not stand the stonn at 
all but should be drouned. The waters looked Clear & beautiful though exeeding rough, & I said I 
believed I could swim & I would try it anyhow. They said I would drown. I said I would have a 
frolic in the water first if I did & I dove of into the raging waves. 

I had swum but a short distance when a towering wave overwhelmed me for a time but I soon 
found myself on the top of it & soon I met the second wave in the same way & for awhile I 
struggled hard to live in the midst of the storm & waves. But I soon found I gained upon evry 
wave & stemmed the torrent better & better & I soon had power to swim with my head out of 
water so the waves did not break over me at all & I found I had swam a great distance & in 
looking about me I saw Br Samuel by my side. I asked him how he liked it. He said first rate & I 
thought so to. I was soon enabled to swim with my head & Sholdiers out of water & I Could 
swim as fast as any steem Boat, & in a little time it becaim calm & I Could rush through the 
water & ownly go in to my loins & so[n?] I ownly went in to my knees & finally could tread on 
the top of the water & went almost with the speed of an arrow & I said to Samuel see how swift I 
can go & I thought it was great sport & pleasure to travel with such speed & I awoke. 


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What the interpetation of the foregoing dream was the spirit of God or time must determin. 

[ ] 

In the evening of this day the quorum met at Joseph store. Brothers Wm. W Clayton & Joseph 
Young met with them But I was not present. Elder Kington Came after me with a waggon to go 
to his house & hold a meeting so I took my family & rode 6 miles across the prarie in the storm 
& spent the night at his house. Joseph Young & wife & Wm. Clayton Received their 2d 
Endowments &c. 6 mils. 

4th Sunday I preached at Elder Kingtons & returned to Nauvoo in the evening. 6 miles. 

I met with the quorum in the evening. Br & Sister Lott was present. We had a good time in 
prayer. Br Joseph gave us good instruction in meekness & humility. The revelator John remarks 
was quoted to in the evening Concerning the 144,000 of the tribes of Israel. /Cornelius P. Lott & 
wife Received their 2d Anointing & sealing./ 

5th Spent the day at the printing office shelling com. 

6th 5 1 mooved my family & all my effect back to my old place Cornor of Hotchkiss & Durfee 
street. Had 6 loads in all. It was quite a Cold day. In the evening In company with Mrs Woodruff 
I attended a party at Elder Taylors house. It was Composed of President Joseph & Hiram Smith 
& the quorum of the Twelve. We spent an interesting evening. Had a good feast & good feelings. 
Conversed upon a variety of subjects & went home. 

7th It was an exeeding cold day. I spent my time trying to regulate my affairs. I met in the 
evening with the Twelve at the Store to make some arangments about political affairs but nothing 
was done. 

8th It is still Cold. I spent the day at home But I met with a congregation of the Citizens in the 
room over Joseph Store for the purpose of hearing the views of General Joseph Smith given 
concerning the affairs of Government. His views were written & were read by Wm. W Phelps & 
were in the highest degree interesting. Gen Smith gave his reasons for pennitting his name to go 
forth as a candidate for the Presidency of the United States which were as follows: 

I would not have suffered my name to have been used by my friends on any wise as president of 
the united States or candidate for that office If I & my friends Could have had the privilege of 
enjoying our religious & civel rights as American Citizen even those rights which the 
Constitution guarantee unto all her Citizens alike. But this we as a people have been denied from 
the beginning. Persecution has rooled upon our heads from time to time from portions of the 
United States like peels of thunder because of our religion & no portion of the government as yet 
has steped forward for our relief & under view of these things I feel it to be my right & privilege 
to obtain what influence & power I Can lawfully in the United States for the protection of injured 
innocence & If I loose my life in a good Cause I am willing to be sacrificed on the alter of virtue 


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rightousness & truth, in maintaining the laws & constitution of the United States if need be for 
the general good of mankind. 

Many other interesting remarks were made. He was followed by Elders Hide & Taylor, & a vote 
was taken whether the views of Gen Smith would be maintained by the assembly or not. The vote 
was universal in the affirmative. 

9th Br Mount Commenced putting in my windows in my house. I spent the day at home. 

10th I spent most of the day at home. Br Mount finished putting in my windows. I Called upon 
Br Wm. Pitt. 

1 1th Sunday A Cold day. I went in company with Mrs Woodruff out to Br Richards & held a 
meeting & had a good time. 

12th 13 Spent the time at home about the house. 

14 I spent the day with Elder Taylor. We Paid Mr Matison $45.81 cts at the end of the execution 
he sued out against us. It was the first time we were sued. 

15th I spent the time at home. 

16th I went in company with Mrs Woodruff to Br John Benbows. We found Wilford (who was 
with them) quite sick with the measels & Br Benbow was sick. I spent the night with them. 

17th I spent the day with Br Benbow. Pruned the peach trees. 

18th Sunday I preached at Robert Hills. Had a good time. Br Bendow was still sick. I Blessed 3 
Children Administered to 2 sick. 

On our return home I met with the quorum President J Smith with us. We had a good time. 
Sister Orson Hyde was present. 

19th I spent the day at home at work. I drew one cord of stone from the Temple for a vault. 

20 [] I received a letter from Br Luther Scammans & Sister Sarah B. Foss. :)■ I wrote a Letter to 
Sarah B Foss one to Luther Scamman 3 in all. 

* I met in council in the morning with the Presidency & Twelve at Joseph Store. Two messengers 
arived from the pine Country with word from Lyman Wight wanting Council Concerning 
Preaching to the indians. Joseph thought it wisdom not to do it. He said if Lyman did any thing 
about it he must do it on his own responsibility but finally decided not to send any Council to 
him but let him act with the best wisdom he had in all things. 

2 1st I dug a volt for an out Building 7 feet deep 4 feet square in the clear of the stone work. 

[] I met with the quorum of the Twelve at Josephs Store & according to Joseph Council we 


Page2 1 7 




selected a company to go on an exploring expedition to California & pitch upon a spot to build a 
city. The following persons were named: Jonathan Dunham, David Fulmer, Phineas Young, 
Alphonzo Young, [ ] Yearsley [ ] & [ ] Emmet. 

At the same time we were holding this Council Rev D Wolfe An Episcopalian Clergyman was 
preaching to a Congregation of Saints in the other room. When he closed, President Joseph Smith 
followed him & made many interesting remarks. Among other things Said that men may preach 
& practice evry thing except those things which God Commands us to do & will be damned at 
last. We may tithe rue annis & Cummin & still not obey the Commandments of God. The object 
with me is to obey & teach others to obey God in just what he tells us to do. It mattereth not 
whether the principle is popular or unpopular. I will always maintain a true principl even if I 
Stand alone in it & many interesting remarks was made by president Smith. 

22d I did not feel well this morning, laboured to hard. 

23 Br Morgan Commenced laying Brick on our out house. I attended meeting with the Twelve & 
Presidency & 25 was the number agreed upon for the California voyage. 

24th We laid Brick to day. 

25th Sunday I preached at Br Reeds house at 1 1 oclock President Smith Preached at the Temple. 

In the evening I met with the quorum and had an interesting time. We had received correct 
information concerning the death of Joseph Duncan & Govornor Reynold of Missouri. He Shot 
himself through the head. They were two of the most inven-erate enemies against the latter Day 
Saints. President Joseph Smith Prophesyed that within five years we should be rid of our old 
enemies whether they were Apostates or of the world & wished us to record it that when it comes 
to pass that we need not say we had forgotten the saying. 

26 A Cold wind from the north. Br Reed worked for me a part of the day. I met with the quorum 
in the evening * but meeting Closed soon after we arived. Fathers John Smith & wife & Isaac 
Morley & wife met with the quorum in the afternoon & evening. I took a severe Cold & had a 
sick night. /Father John Smith & wife Isaac Morley & wife Reed their 2d Anointing & sealings./ 

27th I arose sick in the morning. A Cold had settelled in my face & teeth & I was in pain through 
the day. I had a number of visiters through the day. Br & Sister Benbow Sister Bunday & Job, & 
others. Br Reed & Snow worked for me to day. I went to bed about dark sick & spent a severe 
night of pain. I did not sleep any during the night. 

28th I spent an exeeding sick day. My face was swollen so that I Could scarsly see out of my eyes 
& pain from my eye tooth was vary severe. I spent the night also without sleep because of paine. 

29th The morning found me still in great distress. Elders G. A. Smith & Whitney Came & lade 
hands upon me & towards night I began to recover & I had a Comfortable & quiate nights rest. 


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March 


March 1 , 1 844 MY BIRTH DAY Annother year of my existance has rolled away. I am thirty 
Seven years of age this day. I am some better in health than I was yesterday but vary weak & 
feeble to day. I spent a comfortable night. 

2d I find myself quite weak this morning though I ventured to walk out of doors some. Sister 
Benbow Called to see me & brought me a rabit to eat that our son Wilford sent me. He is living 
with them. 

3d Sunday I spent the day at home. During the evening I met with the quorum. Had remarks 
from a number of the brethren. 

4th I Commenced work banking up my house. 

5 & 6th I spent the time banking up my house. 

* 7th Thursday March 1844 A Vast assembly of Saints met at the Temple of the Lord at 9 oclock 
AM by a special appointment of President Smith for the purpose of advancing the progress of the 
Temple & c. The quorum of the Twelve were present Temple Committee & six or eight thousand 
saints. The Corrister was Called to the stand by president Young. A Hymn was then sung & 
prayer by P. P. Pratt followed by a Hymn. 

Elder Young arose and said the Patriarch was near. He came & took the stand & remarked the 
object of the meeting was to stir up your minds by way of rememberence. It is necessary to have 
a starting point is to build the temple. With the assistance of the Sisters we expect to get the nails 

6 glass & with the assistance of the Brethren we expect to do the rest. I will proclaim in publick 
& in private that the Sisters bought the glass & nails by penny subscription. Chuse ye this day 
wholm ye will serve. We shall Call upon this vast multitude for a donation to buy powder & fuse 
rope. We want the brethren to do as much as the sisters. We do not intend to finish the Nauvoo 
House this season but to finish the Temple this summer or the walls of it & get the roof on by 
December & do of the inside next winter & about a year from this spring we will dedicate it. 

We can do any thing we undertake. We have power & we Can do great things. In 5 years to come 
the work will progress more than it has for 10 years past. Isaiah said we should perform a 
marvelous work and a wonder. I dont wonder He said so if he saw this vast multitude & I think 
this people is abundantly able to build this temple & much depends upon it. Our endowments & 
sealing powers & many blessings depend upon it. 

The Prophet arived & took the stand and arose in the midst of the [ ] Said (Orson Pratt come 

& take your post) & further remarked I do not know whether the object of the meeting has been 
told or not. I apologize for not Comeing sooner. I have had so much on my mind since I saw you 
that I hardly know whare to begin or to say but one of the grand objects that I had in view in 
calling this meeting was in making a few remarks relative to the laws & ordinances and building 


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the temple. 


The reason I want to speak of the laws is the Officers have difficulty in administering the laws. 
We are republican & wish to have the people rule but rule in righteousness So [no]ne would 
complain with what God himself would do, the laws are enacted by petition and they Can all be 
repealed if they wish it but the people ought not to complain of the officers but to complain of the 
law makers. I am instructed by the city Council to tell this people that if you do not like any law 
we have passed we will repeal it for we are your servants. Any that complain of our rights and 
Charters it is because they are wicked. The devil is in them. 

The reason I Called it up is we have a simple gang of fellows who does not know whare their 
elbows or head is. If you preach virtue to them they will oppose that. If you preach Methodist 
God to them they will oppose that or any thing els & if their is any case tried they want it 
appealed to Carthage. Mr Boswicks case had to go to Carthage. Our Lawyers will send any thing 
to Carthage. 

I want to know if the citizens will sustain me when my hands are raised to heaven for the people. 

I will areign the person before the people that act against the interest of the City & I will have the 
voice of the people which is republican and as likely to be the voice of God. And as long as I 
have a tongue to speak I will expose the iniquity of the Lawyiers and wicked men. I fear not their 
boiling over nor the boiling over of Hell their thunders & forked lightning. 

I despise the man that will betray you with a kiss. Here is Hiram Kimball. Has set at naught the 
ordinances of the city. By saying that He owns the wharf & steem boats need not pay them. 
Wharefore this body is the highest court. What appeal to Carthage? I would not appeal there if i 
died a thousand deaths. Kimball nor Morrison does not own the wharf age. Water street runs 
along the beach, & belongs to the City & not individuals. 

I will reprove the lawyers & docters any how. Jesus did & evry prophet has & if I am a prophet I 
shall do it. At any rate I shall do it for i profess to be a prophet. 

The laws & Constitution of the United States has ceded up the right to corperate Cities to 
regulate all wharfage of shiping & Steem Boats &c. All laws of taxation is subject to the city & 
not individuals. And I want from this time forth evry fool to stay at home & let the steem Boats 
& Captain alone and let the peace officers alone. How can we keep off mobs & keeping innocent 
Blood from being shed? By striking a blow at evry thing that rises up in disorder & I will war an 
eternal war with those that oppose me while I am labouring in behalf of the city. 

A man has been writing to the New York Tribune. I will not mention his name. He says that 
much has been appropriated for the building the Temple that has been spent for other purposes. 
But I pledge myself that any man that has paid any old shoes, harnesses, horses, or any thing els 
if he will come I will show him on Book that evry farthing has gone on Book & been 
appropriated for the building of the Temple. If not so I will pledge my head for a foot ball that 


Page220 




this is true. Their are men in our midst who are trying to build up themselves at our expense & 
others in our midst that are watching for iniquity & will make a man an offender for a word. But I 
will rest myself & give way for others. 

President Hyram Smith arose and made some singular remarks quite romantic. Compared the 
Lawyiers to polewags & wiglers & toads. He said they would dry up next fall. Those Characters 
he thought was made in gigard making time when it was cheaper then in soul making time. 

A Brother of Dr Foster threatend the mayor & the mayor fined him $10. 

President Joseph Smith's views of the gover-ment was then read, which was recieved with 
universal applause. Gen Smith is now nominated by the Saints as a candidate for President of the 
U.S.A. next election. An article was also read headed a voice of innocence from Nauvoo, And a 
meeting of the female relief society was appointed to attend to the above writing. Meeting 
adjourned 1 1/2 hours. 

During intermission the Twelve met with the Seventies & they passed a resolution to build the 
Hall of the seventies one story higher for the Presidency. 

Meeting Commenced again at 2 oclok. Commenced by singing & prayer by O. Pratt. Sing a 
Hymn. 

President B Young arose and addressed the assembly relative to different subjects. As men have 
been spoken of in their capacity, I wish to speak of the duty of the class of Lawyiers classing 
myself with the lawyers in the House of Israel. And when any man who is a Lawyer will take a 
course to Break peace instead of making it [he] is out of the way of his duty. Any doctor of the 
Law should read the law and make peace. 

The grand object we have before us is to build the Temple this season. We have herd the effects 
of Slander & we want a cure & balm & I carry one with me all the while & I want all to do the 
same & I will tell you what it is. It is to mind our own business & let others alone And suffer 
wrong rather than to do wrong. If any one takes your property away let them alone. Have nothing 
to do with them. 

A spirit has been manifest to divide the Saints. It was manifest in the last election. It was said if 
they did not look out the saints on the flat would beet the saints on the Hill. Great God how such 
a thing looks that the saints should be afraid of beating one another in the election or being beat. 

I would ask who built up this city? Would steem boats landed here if the Saints had not come, or 
could you even the speculators have soled their lands for any thing here if the saints had not 
come? They might have sold for a few bare & wolf skins but not for money. Can these 
speculaters sell all their land to the saints for a great price & then go away & enjoy it somewhare 
els? I tell you nay. For know it ye people that Israel is here & they are the head and not the tail & 
the people must leam it. All those who have gone from us have gone from the head to the tail. 

But if any of you wish to know how to have your bread fall butter side up butter it both sides & 


Page221 




then it will fall butter side up. Uppose this work & it will roll over you. When did this work ever 
stop since it began? Never. 

The ownly thing the Saints now want to know is what does the Lord want of us & we are ready to 
do it. Well then build the temple of the Lord. Keep the law of God ye saints & the Hypocritt & 
Scround-ral will flee out of your midst & tremble for the fire of God will be two hot for them. He 
made many important remarks. 

Elder Taylor followed with an address upon political matters. He traced the History of 
governments for many Centuries & traced the form of governments from ancient days to the 
present time. He spoke of our Charters & General Smith being a Candidate for the Presidential 
Chair & we must do what we can to elect him. We will not be cowards in this thing. A coward is 
like an Ostrich. He will hide his head under cover & leaves his body out in sight to be seen as we 
pass along. So cowards here after will be called an Ostrich. He also made some remarks 
concerning the building of the Temple. 

Elder Young remarked that He should visit those who did not pay up their tithing. You will want 
a blessing in the temple when it is done. 

President Smith remarked in relation to those who give in property for the temple we want it 
brought to the proper source that it may be put on the Church Book So that in the endowment 
those whose names [which] are on Book Shall have the preffer-ence. 

As to politics I Care but little about the Presidential Chair. I would not give half as much for the 
office as I would for the one I now hold. But as the world have used the power of Goverment to 
oppress & persecute us it is right for us to use it for the protection of our rights. When I get hold 
of the eastern paper & see how popular I am I am afraid myself that I shall be elected. But if I 
should be I would not say that your cause is just & I Could not do any thing for you. 

What I said in relation to the annexation of texas is with some unpopular. The people are 
opposed to it. I will take this objection away. The opposition is because it is filled up with 
Slavery. Now I wish to turn the argument. It is the vary reason why it ought to be received in 
order to watch over them. Of the greatest two evils we should reject the greatest. 

The president of Texas sayes if you do not receive us in the united States we will go to the 
British. This would Certainly be bad policy for this Nation. The British are now through out that 
whole Country trying to bribe all they can. How much better it is to be to a little expens than to 
have the indians & British upon us & destroy us all. We should grasp all the territory we can and 
I know much that I do not tell. I have had bribes offered me, but I have rejected them. The 
government will not receive any thing from me. They are self sufficient. But they must go to Hell 
& work out their own salvation with fear & trembling. 

As soon as texas was annexed I would liberate two or three states & pay them for their slaves & 
let them go to Mexico whare they are mixed blacks ec. I would also receive Canida & stand by 


Page222 




them & many other usful remarks He made. 

A Collection was taken up to buy powder & fuse rope. About $60 dollars was recieved. Meeting 
Closed & we returned to our homes. 

March 8th I laboured in the garden or banking up my house. I met in council in the evening with 
the presidency & twelve. Spoke concerning a candidate for the vice Presidency. They had 
nominated Gen Arlington Bennet not knowing that he was a native of Ireland. The final decision 
was for me to write to Col Solomon Copeland to invite him to visit us & see if he would suffer 
his name to run for the vice Presidency. 

9th [] I spent the day in plowing & making some garding. I planted & sowed onions potatoes set 
out straw buries & raspburies. This is the earliest time I ever undertook to make a garding. 

March 10th 1844 Sunday [] } I mailed a letter to Sister Sarah B. Foss & wrote one letter to Col 
Solomon Copeland. Brother King Follet was buried this day under Masonic honors. He was 
killed while in a well by having a bucket of stone fall onto him. 

A large assembly of the Saints met at the temple & was Addressed by President Joseph Smith 
upon one of the most important & interesting subjects ever presented to the saints & the 
principles presented were of the greatest importance to be understood. It was as follows: the work 
& Calling & spirit Elias, Elijah, & Mesiah. The following is a synopsis of the discourse: 

Their is a differance between the spirit & office of Elias & Eligah. It is the spirit of Elias I wish 
first to speak of. And in order to Come at the subject I will bring some of the testimony from the 
scripture & give my own. In the first place suffice it to say I went into the woods to inquire of the 
Lord by prayer his will concerning me, & I saw an angel & he laid his hands upon my head & 
ordained me to be a priest after the order of Aaron & to hold the keys of this priesthood which 
office was to preach repentance & Baptism for the remission of sins & also to baptise. But [I] 
was informed that this office did not extend to the laying on of hands for the giving of the Holy 
Ghost that that office was a greater work & was to be given afterwards. But that my ordination 
was a preparetory work or a going before which was the spirit of Elias for the spirit of Elias was 
a going before to prepare the way for the greater, which was the case with John the Baptist. 

He came bailing through the wilderness prepare ye the way of the Lord & make his paths strait & 
they were informed if they could receive it it was the spirit of Elias & John was vary particular to 
tell the people He was not that light but was sent to bear witness of that light. He told the people 
that his mission was to preach repentance & baptize with water, but it was he that Should Come 
after him that should baptise with fire & the Holy Ghost. If he had been an imposture he might 
have gone to work beyound his bounds & undertook to have performed ordinances that did not 
belong to that office & calling under the spirit of Elias. 

The spirit of Elias is to prepare the way for a greater revelation of God which is the priesthood of 
Elias or the Priesthood that Aaron was ordained unto. And when God sends a man into the world 


Page223 




to prepare for a greater work [he] holds the keys of the power of Elias. It was called the doctrin of 
Elias even from the early ages of the world. John's mission was limited to preaching & Baptizing 
but what he done was legal & when Jesus Christ Came to any of John's deciples He baptized 
them with fire & the Holy Ghost. 

We find the Apostles endowed with greater power than John. Their office was more under the 
spirit & power of Elijah than Elias. In the Case of Philip when he went down to Samaria [he] was 
under the spirit of Elias. He baptised both men & women. When Peter & John herd of it they 
went down & lade hands on them & they received the Holy Ghost. This shows the distinction 
between the two powers. When Paul came to certain deciples He asked if they had received the 
Holy Ghost. They said no. Who baptized you then? We were Baptized unto Johns Baptism. No 
John did not baptized you for he did his work right, & so Paul went & baptized them for He 
knew what the true doctrin was & he knew that John Had not Baptised them & these principles 
and [it] is strange to me that men who have red the scriptures of the New Testament are so far 
from it. 

What I want to impress upon your minds is the difference of power in the different parts of the 
Priesthood, so that when any man comes among you saying I have the spirit of Elias you can 
know whether he be true or fals. For any man that comes having the spirit & power of Elias he 
will not transend his bounds. John did not transend his bound but faithfully perfonned that part 
belonging to his office, and evry portion of the great building should be prepared right & 
assigned to its proper place, & it is necessary to know who holds the keys of power & who dont 
or we may be likely to be decieved. That person who holds the keys of Elias hath a preparitory 
work. 

But if I spend much more time in conversing about the spirit of Elias I shall not have time to do 
justice to the spirit & power of Elijah. This is the Elias spoken of in the last days & here is the 
rock upon which many split thinking the time was past in the days of John & Christ & no more to 
be. But the spirit of Elias was revealed to me & I know it is true. Therefore I speak with boldness 
for I know varily my doctrin is true. Now for Elijah, the spirit power & Calling of Elijah is that 
ye have power to hold the keys of the revelations ordinances, orioles powers & endowments of 
the fulness of the Melchezedek Priesthood & of the kingdom of God on the Earth & to recieve, 
obtain & perform all the ordinances belonging to the kingdom of God even unto the sealing of 
the hearts of the fathers unto the Children & the hearts of the Children unto the fathers even those 
who are in heaven. Malachi says I will send Elijah befor the great and dredful day of the Lord 
come & He shall turn the hearts of the Fathers to the Children and the hearts of the Children to 
the Fathers lest I come & smite the earth with a curse. 

Now what I am after is the knowledge of God & I take my own Course to obtain it. What are we 
to understand by this in the last days? In the days of Noah God destroyed the world by a flood & 
has promised to destroy it by fire in the last days. But before it took place Elijah should first 
Come & turn the hearts of the Fathers to the Children &c. 


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Now comes the point. What is this office & work of Elijah? It is one of the greatest & most 
important subjects that God has revealed. He should send Elijah to seal the Children to the 
fathers & fathers to the Children. Now was this merely confined to the living to settle difficulties 
with families on earth? By no means. It was a far greater work. Elijah what would you do if you 
was here? Would you confine your work to the living alone? No. I would refer you to the 
scriptures whare the subject is manifest. Ie without us they could not be made perfect nor we 
without them, the fathers without the Children nor the Children without the fathers. I wish you to 
understand this subject for it is important & if you will recieve it this is the spirit of Elijah that 
we redeem our dead & connect ourselves with our fathers which are in heaven & seal up our 
dead to come forth in the first resurrection & here we want the power of Elijah to seal those who 
dwell on earth to those which dwell in heaven. This is the power of Elijah & the keys of the 
kingdom of Jehovah. 

Let us suppose a case. Suppose the great God who dwells in heaven should reveal himself to 
Father Cutler here by the opening heavens and tell him I offer up a decree that whatsoever you 
seal on earth with your decree I will seal it in heaven. You have power then. Can it be taken of? 
No. Then what you seal on earth by the keys of Elijah is sealed in heaven & this is the power of 
Elijah, & this is the difference between the spirit & power of Elias and Elijah. For while the spirit 
of Elias is a fore runner the power of Elijah is sufficient to make our Calling & Election sure & 
the same doctrin whare we are exhorted to go on to perfection not laying again the foundation of 
repentance from dead works but of laying on of hands resurrection of the dead &c. We cannot be 
perfect without the fathers, &c. 

We must have revelations then & we can see that the doctrin of revelation as far transcends the 
doctrin of no revelation as knowledge is above ignorance. For one truth revealed from heaven is 
worth all the sectarian notions in exhistance. 

This spirit of Elijah was manifest in the days of the Apostles in delivering certain ones to the 
buffitings of Satan that they may be saved in the day of the Lord Jesus. They were sealed by the 
spirit of Elijah unto the damnation of Hell untill the day of the Lord or revelation of Jesus Christ. 

Here is the doctrin of Election that the world have quarreled so much about but they do not know 
any thing about it. The doctrin that the Prysbeter-ians & Methodist have quarreled so much about 
once in grace always in grace, or falling away from Grace I will say a word about. They are both 
wrong. Truth takes a road between them both. For while the Presbyterian Says once in grace you 
cannot fall the Methodist says you can have grace to day, fall from it to morrow, next day have 
grace again & so follow it. But the doctrin of the scriptures & the spirit of Elijah would show 
them both fals & take a road between them both. For according to the scriptures if a man has 
receive the good word of God & tasted of the powers of the world to come if they shall fall away 
it is impossible to renew them again seeing they have Crucified the son of God afresh & put him 
to an open shame. So their is a possibility of falling away. Y[ee/ou?] could not be renewed again, 
& the power of Elijah Cannot seal against this sin for this is a reserve made in the seals & power 


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of the priesthood. 

I will make evry doctrin plain that I present & it shall stand upon a firm bases. And I am at the 
defiance of the world for I will take shelter under the broad shelter cover of the wings of the 
work in which I am ingaged. It matters not to me if all hell boils over. I regard it ownly as I 
would the Crackling of thorns under a pot. 

A murderer, for instance one that sheds innocent Blood cannot have forgiveness. David sought 
repentance at the hand of God Carefully with tears but he could ownly get it through Hell. He got 
a promise that his soul should not be left in Hell. Although David was a king he never did obtain 
the spirit & power of Elijah & the fulness of the Priesthood, and the priesthood that he received 
& the throne & kingdom of David is to be taken from him & given to another by the name of 
David in the last days raised up out of his linage. 

Peter refered to the same subject on the day of pentecost, but the multitude did not get the 
endowment that Peter had. But several days after the people asked what shall we do? Peter says I 
would ye had done it ignorantly speaking of crucifying the Lord &c. He did not say to them 
repent & be baptized for the remission of your sins but he said repent therefore & be converted 
that your sins may be blotted out when the times of refreshing shall come from the presence of 
the Lord. Acts III 19. This is the case with murderers. They could not be baptized for the 
remission of sins for they had shed innocent Blood. 

Again the doctrin or sealing power of Elijah is as follows: If you have power to seal on earth & in 
heaven then we should be crafty. The first thing you do go & seal on earth your sons & daughters 
unto yourself & yourself unto your fathers in eternal glory & go ahead and not go back but use a 
little Craftiness & seal all you can & when you get to heaven tell your father that what you seal 
on earth should be sealed in heaven. I will walk through the gate of heaven and Claim what I seal 
& those that follow me & my Council. 

The Lord once told me that what I asked for I should have. I have been afraid to ask God to kill 
my enemies lest some of them should peradventure repent. I asked a short time since for the Lord 
to deliver me out of the hands of the govomor of Missouri & if it must needs be to accomplish it 
to take him away & the next news that came pouring down from their was Govornor Reynolds 
had shot himself. And I would now say beware O earth how you fight against the saints of God & 
shed innocent Blood, for in the days of Elijah his enemies came upon him & fire was called 
down from heaven & destroyed them. 

The spirit of Elias is first, Elijah second, & Mesiah last. Elias is a fore runner to prepare the way, 
& the spirit & power of Elijah is to come after holding the keys of power building the Temple to 
the cap stone placing the seals of the Melchezedeck priesthood up on the house of Israel & 
making all things ready. Then Mesiah comes to his Temple which is last of all. Mesiah is above 
the spirit & power of Elijah for he made the world & was that spiritual rock unto Moses in the 
wilderness. Elijah was to come & prepare the way & build up the kingdom before the coming of 
the great day of the Lord. 


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Although the spirit of Elias might begin it, I have asked of the Lord concerning his Coming & 
while asking, the Lord gave me a sign & said in the days of Noah I set a bow in the heavens as a 
sign & token that in any year that the bow should be seen the Lord would not come, but their 
should be seed time -harvest during that year. But whenever you see the bow withdraw it shall be 
a token that their shall be famin pestilence & great distress among the nations. 

But I take the responsibility upon myself to prophesy in the name of the Lord, that Christ will not 
come this year as Miller has prophecyed, for we have seen the bow. And I also Prophecy in the 
name of the Lord that Christ will not Come in forty years & if God ever spake by my mouth he 
will not come in that length of time, & Jesus Christ never did reveal to any man the precise time 
that he would Come. Go & read the scriptures & you cannot find any thing that specifies the 
exact [time] he would come & all that say so are fals teachers. 

Their are some important things concerning the office of the Mesiah in the organization of the 
world which I will speak of hereafter. May God Almighty bless you & pour out his spirit upon 
you is the prayer of your unworthy servant Amen. 

At the close of the meeting I was infonned my son Wilford that was out at Br Benbows was vary 
sick. I immediately in company with Mrs Woodruff went out to see him. We found him quite 
sick. We spent the night at Br Benbows. We had prayers and administered unto our son 
according to the order of the priesthood * & he revived in some measure. 

/1 1th ? A A Council of <fifty> Elders was organized to day or had it Commencement to further 
the interest of kingdom of God./ 

March 1 1 We spent the day and night at Br Ben-bows. Our son had a sick night. It was a cold 
rainy time. 

12th A rainy day. I rode to Nauvoo & back to get some things for Wilford. Saw sever[al] 
brethren of our quorum. They infonned me of an interesting meeting they had had Sunday night 
& monday. In the evening Br Lot came to us & we had prayers in the evening together & 
administered to Wilford & he seemed to receive a blessing. 

131 spent part of the day in writing & returned to Nauvoo in the evening. '? I met in Council with 
the brethren for the first time during the week. 

14 $ I was with the brethren today making some arangements Concerning our mission. 

151 was to work in my garding & met with some of the brethren in the evening at the store * for 
prayer exhortation &c. 

/1 6 The female Relief Society met at the Assembly room./ 

17 Sunday I visited the Sick in the evening. Their was a snow stonn yet I met with s[everal?] * * 
of the Saints & gave a lecture on experience. 


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March 18th I spent the day Choreing. 

19th jj } Wrote a letter to Col Solomon Copeland. I went to the printing office & made an 
arangment to take home 200 B[ound?] T & S. 

20th (weather gage) Cold North wind. A snow & hail storm untill 10 oclok. Continued cloudy & 
Cold wind from the North untill 3 oclock. Was plesant during the remainder part of the day. As 
the 20th of September & March is considerd as the weather gage to govern the weather for the 
year by those who observe the weather we should calculate by this rule to have an exceding cold 
& dreary summer so that com Could scarcely grow for this day is the Coldest we have had for 
near two months. 

2 1st jj [] I received a letter from Br Dwight Webster and a paper from Ezra Carter. A cold snow 
storm. Our Cow brought forth a durham heifer Calf this morning. * 

22d A cold day. I spent a part of the day settelling with Elder John Taylor. I met with the 
quorum of the Twelve at B. Youngs for Prayer. We united together to pray for the Presidency the 
Twelve the sick &c. 

23d I spent the day drawing 100 rails from Mr Middletons to the Lot I bought of Hiram Kimball. 

22d Friday Mrs Woodruff returned home from Br Benbows whare she had been taking Care of 
Wilford who had been vary sick. She had been there two weeks. We were both satisfied to be at 
home * with our Children. * * * 

24th March Sunday I met with the saints at the Temple. When I arived President Joseph Smith 
was speaking. The following is the substance of what I herd him say: 

I have been informed by two gentleman that a conspiricy is got up in this place for the purpose of 
taking the life of President Joseph Smith his family and all the Smith family & the heads of the 
Church. One of the gentleman will give his name to the public & the other wishes it to be hid for 
the present. They will both testify to it on oath & make an affidavit upon it. The names of the 
persons revealed at the head of the conspiracy are as follows: (Chancy Higby Dr Foster, Mr 
Jackson, Wm. & Wilson Law). And the lies that Higby has hatched up as a foundation to work 
upon is, he says that I had mens heads Cut off in Missouri & that I had a sword run through the 
hearts of the people that 1 wanted to kill & put out of the way. I wont sware out a warrent against 
them for I dont fear any of them. They would not scare of an old setting hen. 

1 intend to publish all the iniquity that 1 know of. If I am guilty I am ready to bear it. Their is 
honor among enemies. I am willing to do any thing for the good of the people. 

I will give the names of one of the gentleman who have divulged the plot. His name is Eaton. He 
will sware to it. He is a bold fellow. Jackson said a Smith should not be alive 2 weeks not over 
two months any how. As concerning the Character of these men I will say nothing about it now 


Page228 




but If I hear any thing more from them on this subject I will tell what I know about them. 

Elder O. Spencer Addressed the people as follows: I thought of a figure ie. if a physician was 
going to dissect a body he would not begin at the limbs but cut the head of first. So the Adversary 
has laid a plan to cut off the head of the Church with the intention of scattering & destroying the 
whole body. It was so in the days of Jesus Christ. The enemies sought to kill him that the body 
might be destroyed, which was also the case in the days of Elijah, Daniel, & many of the 
ancients. 

I once herd a man say who was opposed to this work that it might be true but it gave Jo Smith 
Power. True said I. But if his power be subordinate to the power of God it is right. If a man set up 
a kingdom by the power of God then let others seek power from the same source. God sets up 
kingdoms & pulls down kingdoms. This makes men mad that will not submit to the kingdom of 
God. 

We all know the result of the power of Moses who was the representative of God. Judging from 
what is past how will it be when God sets up his kingdom in the last days? Whether their is a 
conspiracy now or not I dont know, but no doubt their will be if not know for it has always been 
so. In the days of the Nephites they had their Gadianton robers. I have not any doubt but that the 
Apostates will Join with the others wicked powers to try to put down the power of God. And I 
am glad to have the power of the kingdom of God tested & when it is fully tried it will stand. 

I care not what sacrifice I am Called to make for such a kingdom, if its friends, welth or even life 
at the purchase of such a kingdom it is Cheap. Did the ancient Apostles, Prophets or Saints who 
died pay two much for that kingdom? They did not. It is necessary that men be put in possession 
of the knowledge & mysteries of the kingdom of God in order to sin as far as they wish that they 
may go to the highest pitch. How often men lay down their lives for their country & other 
purposes. Much better then to die for the cause of God. 

Good and righteous men will administer Justice & rebuke evil & the Church should be Clensed 
from bad men & the Lord will take his own way to Clens the Church. We should lift up our voice 
against wickedness of all kinds. 

But will the rulers of our land do it? No they will not. They will be Cowards untill their is no 
man to fight & then be brave. When goverment will not do it some man should take the helm of 
government that will do it. Will it be called treason if the God of heaven should set up a 
kingdom? May the Lord give you more & more of his spirit light & intelligence untill you are 
cemented together in union & love. Amen. 

President S Rigdon arose & addressed the assembly in an interesting manner for a length of time. 
The following are a few Items of his remarks: 

If according to the remarks in the morning A conspiracy does exhist with the persons that have 
been named, It is one of those kind of associations that Could not exhist in any thing except 


Page229 




against the kingdom of God. 

A word Concerning power. History refers us back beyound Civilization in treating upon this 
subject. In consequence of power, their is strength & glory. Whare their is no power it is like flies 
without any order or rule. I have viewed the nations of the earth & the way they are relaxing in 
power & the course they are persuing. One hundred years will not pass away till there would not 
be a man or woman on the earth, and nothing but the hand of God can save it, & this is why God 
would send Elijah to do his work, for all the power the nations will soon have is to destroy each 
other. For soon nation will be against nation party against party the rich against the poor & the 
poor against the rich untill they are destroyed from under heaven. 

Tradition says the pope destroyed the Church of God. Rome followed the Church as long as their 
was a saint & now you say the pope killed fifty millions of Christians. You lie sir. Their was not 
a Christian on Earth, for when rome killed the Christians & would not have God rule they wanted 
a pope & God gave them one or pennitting them to have one & he killed fifty millions, its true. 
But they were not Christians for they wer already dead, but it was of their own number ownly 
differed from them in sentiment. Here was power with a vengance. 

But as soon as God sends a man to use the power of God then they are afraid of power. Now the 
world says the religion of Jesus shed this blood & the bible &c but men must be vary ignorant of 
the bible & the religion of Jesus Christ to, to say such things. For it was for the want of religion 
& the bible that Caused the blood to be shed. For God Jesus Christ nor religion had any more 
hand in it than you had. The power of God & Jesus Christ & religion would have saved if they 
had had it. 

(President Joseph Smith again arose & said In relation to the power over the minds of mankind 
which I hold, I would say it is in consequence of the power of truth in the doctrins which I have 
been an instrument in the hands of God of presenting unto them & not because of any 
compulsion on my part. I will ask if I ever got any of it unfair. If I have not reproved you in the 
gate. I ask did I ever exercise any compulsion over any man? Did I not give him the liberty of 
disbelieveing any doctrin I have preached if he saw fit? Why do not my enemies strike a blow at 
the doctrin? They cannot do it, it is truth. And I am as the voice of one crying in the wilderness 
repent of your sins & prepare the way for the coming of the son of Man, for the kingdom of God 
has come unto you and henceforth the ax is laid unto the root of the tree and evry tree that 
bring-eth not forth good fruit, God Almighty (and not Jo Smith) shall hew down & cast it into the 
fire.) 

25th I went on to the prairie with Br Hale & Bullock to Br Pulsiphers & commenced plowing & 
sowing spring wheat. We sowed about 1 1/2 bushels & harrowed it in. 

26th jj A rainey day. I met in council with the brethren. * 

27th Still rainey. I Settelled all accounts with Elder John Taylor & passed receipts on Settlement. 


Page230 




} I wrote a Letter to Br Dwight Webster. Advised him to come via Albany, Cleaveland Beaver St 
Louis. 

28th I spent part of the day at the Printing Office. We counted out all the Times & Season & the 
List on the following Page is an account of the IVth vol of the Times & Seasons which I have on 
hand for binding. 

The following list of 4th vol Times & Seasons is on hand: 

No 1 - 500 
" 2 - 500 

3- 500 

4- 500 

5- 500 

6- 500 

7- 500 

8- 500 

9- 500 

10- 500 

11- 500 
12 - 500 

13- 500 

14- 500 

15- 500 

16 - 482 Lacks 18 numbers 

17- 500 

18- 500 

19- 480 " 20 numbers 

20 - 480 " 20 

21 -493 " 7 

22 -481 " 19 

23 -493 " 7 

24 - 498 " 2 (whole volums 480) 


The following list is surplus numbers of vol 4. 

No 1 - 3 No U L 

2 -6 520 Title page & contents 
3-56 

5- 27 

6 - 8 


Page23 1 




7- 10 

8- 34 

9- 74 

10- 40 
11 43 

12- 37 

13- 3 

14- 44 

15- 6 

16- 1 

29th A sever Cold. Hail, rain & freezing day. Ground froze hard. 

30 A little more mild. 

3 1 Sunday Spent the day at home. 


April 

April 1 st I went out onto the praire & I finished sowing my spring wheat. I put in four acres in 
all. 

2d I worked in the garden & made some beds. 

3d I worked in the garden. 

4th 5*1 met in Council with the quorum & others. 

5th * * I attended the dedication of the Nauvoo Masonic Hall which was truly grand and 
interesting the first dedication of the kind I ever attended. The procession was grand being 
Composed of about 500 members. 

In the fore part of the day President Joseph Smith was to have preached the fun[er]al sennon of 
King Follet but in consequence of 111 health He omitted it & called upon Elder A. Lyman to take 
the stand & he arose & gave an interesting address to the vast multitude who had assembled for 
the purpose of hearing a discourse from President Smith. 

[6] A Special Conference held at Nauvoo April 6th AD 1844. 

Conference assembled at 10 oclock AM April 6. President B. Young called the conference to 
order. President Joseph Smith said He should not occupy time in speaking of any difficulties that 
might have occured in our midst. Said He was not a fallen prophet, & never in any nearer 
relationship to God than at the present time, & would show before the conference] closed that 
God was with him. 

Prayer by W. W. Phelps, after which Sidney Rigdon arose & said it was with no ordinary feelings 


Page232 




He arose to speak, A privilege which he had not before enjoyed in the same capacity for five 
years. And the circumstances of the occasion points out to me my text which is the saints of the 
last Days. I remember in 1830 All the church met in a log cabin, whare we conversed extensively 
about laying the foundation of this kingdom. Our minds expanded far & wide while 
contemplating this subject even in that day we talked as large then as now. We spoke of Great 
things that the world Could not bear & that is the reason why we were in secret. The world would 
laugh & consider us fools & even mob us because we talked about things that were true & have 
and will come to pass yet things that looked impossible to them because they did not view them 
by faith as we do. And if we should still convers about things in secret it would be upon the same 
principle for we are not willing to bear the scoffs of the world any longer unnessarily. Had we 
told openly & talked openly of the things of God that have & will come to pass our Blood would 
have been shed. We should not have been here this day. But we hid ourselves up in secret. There 
we talked wept, & prayed & the Angels Administered unto us & the spirit of God was with us & 
the heavens opened unto us. But we should now have been in our grave had we proclaimed unto 
the world what God showed unto us, notwithstanding it was for the benefit of man, & for his 
salvation, & not for evil. 

The appearance of this congregation this day shows the fulfillment of the revelations of Jesus 
Christ given in those days. No incident has taken place in this day but what we spoke of at that 
early period. All those things were deeply impressed upon the mind by the God of Heaven. How 
Could you be made to believe that you did not live in Nauvoo & have not got habitations? 

Neither Could we disbelieve this to be the Church of God. We cannot disbelieve it for we see 
hear & feel. I have always known it to be. I Cannot see otherwise. Have I not seen Gods glory by 
the visions of Heaven? Yea I have. Then what have we to do with the little difficulties on earth? 
Nothing. 

Those were the beginning of Good days shut up in a little shop with nothing to eat but a little 
Jonny Cake & milk & water ownly as we would occa-sionlly shoot a squirrel & we lived in an 
old smokey house. Still we rejoiced in the things God was revealing unto us. 

Many think it hard to live in Nauvoo but we counted those good days. God had given us great 
things. Dont think [it] strange if men dont think of great things. When I obtained a great & 
glorious principle I felt like locking it up lest the people would laugh at me. And while we were 
together & telling one thing we would leam another; I speak of these things to do away with the 
notion or feelings about our secret meetings. Was their any thing wrong then? No, neither will 
their be now. No, I have no fear of it. What God does is for my salvation & the salvation of man, 
& I say go ahead. 

I have spoken of the grand principle of the beginning, & I have marvelled at one thing ie after the 
foundation of the church men crept in that were vary wise. More so than God. Professed to know 
more some of them. It has kept the Church in a continual broil. It was so in the days of Moses but 
he disposed of them. He killed them or the Lord destroyed them. 


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I will leave this subject & show why Salvation belongs to the Priesthood of God & why it 
belongs to us as a people. Men labor under a mistake ie Salvation is distinct from goverment. 
Salvation is always the result of goverment. Evry man has a right to govern himself in a 
goverment. As evry good is a part of the goverment & the laws is for the defence of a man, we 
see the need of laws in this city for their is evil dispose of here. I have seen some trials in this city 
whar some persons were tried for insulting the Marshall. But any other man is as good as the 
Marshall. Many other usful remarks were made by the speaker when he gave way untill the 
Afternoon. 

Was followed with many usful remarks from Elder Taylor. The stand was occupied with with 
eleven Lamanites chiefs braves &c. 

At 2 oclok the conference Assembled & [Sidney Rigdon] resumed his subject. Said we were 
discusing in the morning service upon the History of the Church of Jesus Christ. Its a miserable 
man that Could not manufactor his own tex. I have known many a sermon spoiled by a bad tex. 
The Church of Jesus Christ then. The Hights of testimony, & amount of evidence that many of 
those have had that have fallen away has been of such a nature that when they say they dont 
believe this work to be true they lie. The things that were done in secret in the begining are now 
seen openly and their is nothing secret now but what all will know in time to come. 

I am aware their is many things I did not Hint at. I will speak of them now. I have seen the time 
when the Presidency of the Church Sitting now before me, were locked up with me in secret 
places waiting upon God. We did not go out at all but to eat &c. But it was soon found out, & a 
mob Came saying God damn you to Hell, & threatend our lives. It was at this time we sat for 
hours in the Visions of heaven around the throne of God & gazed upon the seenes of Eternity. 

One evening a Mexican called upon us & he went out armed to see a dozen armed men in the 
comor of the fence. He wanted to shoot them. Afterwards the mob came in & broke the door, 
took me & dragd me out through the streets by my heels with my head pounding over the frozen 
ground. Another company took president Smith, & tar & featherd him. They tried to tar and turn 
Aquiphertos down our our throats. This is the reason why we were in secret under lock & key. 

Now if you will let us work openly we will not work in secret. We will work openly as much as 
you want. I think I have said enough already to show that the Church has Come up through great 
tribulation. Let this suffice then upon this subject. 

Their is men Standing in your midst who are not afraid of men or devels & men whos mouths 
cannot be stoped unless you take their lives. For they will speak in defence of the innocent of 
virtue & truth while they live. 

Their is men in your midst who have learned their is a great God who can do as he pleases take 
up the Hills as a little thing, & such men do not fear death. They know about Heaven. They have 
seen it & know all about it. 


Page234 




Their is men in your midst which you must Sustain or go to Hell. Save them & you save 
yourselves. Reject them & you go to Hell. We are 14 years of age now. Chuse your guardeen and 
when you get to be 21 then do business for youselves. You can save yourselves or Damn 
yourselves. 

You have just men among you & the reason is because God has taught them chose & ordained 
them & this is the reason why they are so. 

You have men in your midst who will not turn to the right hand or left. If you are in their path 
you must get out. You cannot Cort by favor or welth or any thing els. They do not ask Poleticians 
kings or people for favor. They ask God for it alone. If the world make them rich or poor they 
never ask for it. The man whom God has raised up to lay the foundation of this work is placed in 
such a situation that He cannot fall and He is so lovely that I cannot get mad at him. 

This is an important part in the History of the Church. The cry of some is I shall not get office if 
these men are not put down. Well God intended to keep them fearing. When God sets up his 
kingdom He will sustain it above all laws & kingdoms of the world & the world has no power 
over the kingdom of God. The laws will be so strict that the world will make to try to ketch the 
saints that it will hang themselves by the wholesale. We want to build up the Laws of God in 
Hancock Co. I dont care anything about all the laws in the world for I will live above them. God 
teaches his servants to respects kings Governors] Presidents, & men in authority. But I have a 
right to proclaim myself a king and priest unto the most High God. Yet I will not transgresss your 
laws. But dont do as they did in Missouri kill people because they would not have break the law. 

I dont want any office in this goverment for I am determined to be a king in the kingdom of God. 
What be king in heaven and quarrel about the office of constable on earth? 

The kingdom of God may rise up in the midst of the kingdoms of the world and live above all 
laws, and not be a law abiding man. I will live above all law. I will pay my taxes & obey all 
requirments that the goverment has upon me. The reason we was mob in Mo was because we 
would not have any thing to do with the laws. We did not break any. We lived above them so 
they sent a mob. upon us. The kingdom of God to the world would be a light in a dark place. The 
kingdom of God Could be set up in any kingdom or country & not Break the law but live above 
it. Conference Adjourned till tomorrow morning. 

April 7th Sunday The sun plesent air calm & serene & a vast multitude of about twenty thousand 
souls assembled together. After singing and prayers President Rigdon arose & Said, our borders 
are enlarged this morning. I shall preach from the same tex we preached from yesterday The 
Church of Jesus Christ, the Kingdom of God, the leven, the little stone spoken of by Daniel &c. 
The testimony given would let the kingdom of God exhist in any goverment Monarchiel or 
Republican. We intend to show why salvation belongs to this Church ownly. 

The kingdom of God is a goverment that exer-ciseing its ownly power in evry respect it holds a 


Page235 




place on the mind, not by force of Arms but by free will because they want to do the will of God 
& it is accomplished by truth itself that is manifest from Heaven by intelligence that He sees in 
heaven and it is power in itself. It is on this principle that power rests. The Lord begins to teach a 
man what he can do and if he never would know what he was taught he never would know what 
he could do. No people can comprehend it but the Church of God. Then one of the main things in 
the kingdom of God is to let a man know what to do, what glory kingdom & power he can gain. 
Man is taught a principle that when it enters the mind it has a power over death, plagues, 
sickness, the gift of miracles. This is one great evidence of the work the power of God. This then 
in the kingdom of God. 

All religions then that there is in the world that has not these things has a tendency to do hurt 
instead of doing good for it teaches those things are done away. God has said he would take all 
the kingdoms of the world out of the way, he would Break in peases & subdue & he would teach 
the kings and all powers the way that they may have a chance. 

We say then their is no power any whare els unto salvation. Isaiah said the wilderness should 
blossom as the rose the lame leap, the blind see. We have got this power here yet the world says 
it is an imposition. When He comes, He will save you. The lame shall leap, Deaf hear Blind see. 
He will come so you need not have sickness or lameness. But man has proclaimed salvation in 
the earth. When we exercise the keys of the kingdom of God who Can oppose it? Not war with 
the sword but with another power. The world has always been sheding Blood. I proclaim peace 
not war, & this is what he calls the kingdom. Has not the kingdom of God a right to extend in any 
part of the world to do good, Beat swords into plow shares & spears into pruning hooks, & it 
shall be a kingdom of glory, peace, & salvation. 

Let no man be alarmed because the Lord said that the kingdom of God should swallow up all 
other kingdoms. What hann would it do? For all the world would have the same spirit. The Lord 
said He intended to do by the whole world the same as he has done by us, & this is the thing the 
world is afraid of. Reflect then. This is as far as I intended to go upon this subject. 

A word then upon the Materials to carry on this kingdom. Any man Publicans, sinners, 
scoundrals or any body else could repent & receive the gospel & become a member of the 
kingdom as well as the good. For when Jesus came He came to call sinners & Harlots came into 
the kingdom. It dont requir much of an exhertion of the mind. 

Much depends however upon the decision of the mind. It depends upon one action of the mind. 

A man remarked to me He did not belong to a Church. Was not worthy. But this is a mistake. 
Jesus Christ came to save sinners. He saves the unworthy. The Lord will offer a man salvation. 

He says he is not worth. But what would you want your son to do if he was unworthy? He should 
return to his father. So with God. He calls to the world to return by Baptism. He cannot make 
himself any better but decid with the mind today. Then the Lord begins to teach him the things of 
God & heaven & I will make you like myself. I will give you my spirit & make you feel like my 
family, & this is the pivot to A God. Then decide & go, be Baptized. Then you will be in the way 


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of Salvation. If he decide otherwise he will not be any better. 

A word upon the spirit. This noble decision of the mind causes Angels to rejoice in the Heavens 
for their is more joy over one sinner that repenteth than over ninety and nine just persons. Evry 
person can do this & no man can do a better work. Let no man say they are unworthy. 

I wish all the teachers of the day Could hear me. I was a Baptist & preached their doctrin & was 
hampered, & hampered others in my teachings and all the teachers of the day do the same. They 
may be honest but they teach fals doctrins. They call people to the anxious bench & keep them 
down untill they will say they are willing to be damned. But I never was willing to be damned. 

The doctrin Peter taught was different from sectarianisms. His doctrin was repent & be Baptized 
& you shall receive the Holy ghost. Take a view of this subject. Look at the spirit of promise. 
View the Congregation on that day. They were stranger not having a knowledge of salvation. 
They were strangers to the power of God & did not know that Jesus Christ was crusified & All 
they knew about it was what Peter told them on the day of Pentecost, 14 vrs of 2 ch. of Acts. The 
ownly knowledge they had about the Holy Spirit was what Peter taught them by quoting the 
prophet Joel 37 ver. 

Now mark this. Peter had defined the spirit of God of the fruits of it be Prophecy, dreams, 
visions, revelations, &c. Yes this is the spirit of God the spirit of Prophecy, dreams, visions, heal 
the sick, & all the great things, & I will in the last days pour out my spirit upon all flesh. This is 
the definition of the Spirit. All were called to be baptized without any exceptions, villians Harlots 
Scoundral and all. 

A question. How long would it take the sectarian religion before they would prophecy & have the 
gifts of the spirits of God? It would take seven eternities to do it for it is on a different scheme. I 
will come to an Anxious bench and get as good a convertion as can be got at an anxious bench. 

Will I be converted to God? No I will be converted to an anxious bench. 

If I had been converted to God I should have been Prophesying According to the words of Joel. 
Lor He said the spirit of God should be poured out upon all flesh & I believe I am flesh & I 
believe you are flesh & I believe we are in the last days. 

I will now sum up the testimony. What is a man to preach when they go out? Tell the people to 
repent quit their iniquity be Baptized & you shall recieve the Holy ghost, dream dreams, see 
visions, & prophecy & if they dont tell them this they preach another gospel. [ ] 

3 oclok PM April Sunday 7th 1844 _[ The following important edefying & interesting discourse 
was deliverd by President Joseph Smith to about twenty thousand souls upon the subject of the 
death of Elder King Lollet. [ ] 

I now call the attention of this congregation while I addres you upon the subject of the dead The 
case of our Beloved Brother King Lollet who was crushed to death in a well as well as many 


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others who have lost friends will be had in mind this afternoon & [I] shall speak upon the subject 
in general as far as I shall be inspired by the Holy spirit to treat upon the subject. I want the 
Prayers & faith of the Saints that I may have the Holy Ghost that the testimony may carry 
conviction to your minds of the truth of what I shall say, & pray that the Lord may strengthen my 
lungs. There is strength here. Your prayers will be herd. 

Before I enter upon an investigation of this subject, I wish to pave the way, and bring up the 
subject from the beginning that you may understand. I do not intend to please you with oritory 
but with the simple truths of heaven Edify you. Go to the morn of creation to understand the 
decrees of the Eloheem at the creation. It is necessary for us to have an understanding of God at 
the beginning. If we get a good start first we can go right, but if you start wrong you may go 
wrong. But few understand the Character of God. They do not know they do not understand their 
relationship to God. The world know no more than the brute beast, & they know no more than to 
eat drink and sleep & this is all man knows about God or his exhistance, except what is given by 
the inspiration of the Almighty. Go then to the beginning that you may understand. 

I ask this congregation what kind of a being is God? Turn your thoughts in your hearts, & say 
have any of you seen or herd him or communed with him? This is a question that may occupy 
your attention. The scriptures inform us that this is eternal life to know the ownly wise God & 
Jesus Christ whome He has sent. If any inquire what kind of a being God is I would say If you 
dont know God you have not eternal life. Go back & find out what kind of a being God is. 

If I am the man that shows you what kind of a being God is then let evry man & woman sit in 
silence and never lift up his hand against me again. If I do not do it, I will not make any further 
pretentions to inspiration or to be a prophet. I would be like the rest of the world, [world's] fals 
teachers & you would want to take my life. But you might just as well take the lives of other fals 
teachers as mine if I was fals. But meddle not with any man for his religion. Evry goverment 
ought to permit evry man to enjoy his religion. I will show the world is wrong by showing what 
God is. I am going to inquire after God so that you may know God, that persecution may cease 
concerning me. 

I go back to the beginning to show what kind of a being God was. I will tell you & hear it O 
Earth! God who sits in yonder heavens is a man like yourselves. That GOD if you were to see 
him to day that holds the worlds you would see him like a man in fonn, like yourselves. Adam 
was made in his image and talked with him, walked with him. In order to understand the dead for 
the consolation of those that mourn, I want you to understand God and how he comes to be God. 
We suppose that God was God from eternity. I will refute that Idea, or I will do away or take 
away the veil so you may see. 

It is the first principle to know that we may convers with him and that he once was man like us 
and the Father was once on an earth like us. And I wish I was in a suitable place to tell it. The 
scriptures inform us mark it that Jesus Christ Said As the Father hath power in himself so hath 
the son power in himself to do what the Father did even to lay down my body & take it up again. 


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Do you believe it? If not dont believe the bible. I defy all Hell and earth to refute it. 

And you have got to learn how to make yourselves God, king and priest, by going from a small 
Capacity to a great capacity to the resurrection of the dead to dwelling in everlasting burnings. I 
want you to know the first principle of this law. How consoling to the mourner when they part 
with a friend to know that though they lay down this body it will rise & dwell with everlasting 
burnings to be an heir of God & joint heir of Jesus Christ enjoying the same rise exhaltation & 
glory untill you arive at the station of a God. What did Jesus Christ do? The same thing as I see 
the Father do. See the father do what? Work out a kingdom. When I do so to I will give to the 
father which will add to his glory. He will take a Higher exhaltation & I will take his place and 
am also exhalted. 

These are the first principles of the gospel. It will take a long time after the grave to understand 
the whole. If I should say any thing but what was in the bible the cry of treason would be herd. I 
will then go to the Bible. 

Bcirasheet in the beginning. Analize the word in and through the head. An old Jew added the 
word Bath. It red the head one of the gods broat forth the gods. I will transpose it in the english 
language. I want you to know & leam that the Holy Ghost knows sumthing. The grand Council 
set at the head and contemplated the creation of the world. Some will say the scriptures say so & 
so, but I will show you a text out of an old book Containing the four languages. The German is 
here. What does this text say? Yoakabeam, the son of Zebedee. The bible says James the son of 
Zebedee, but this says Jacob son of jebedee 21 ch. 4th ver. Matthew. 

The Dr says (I mean Dr of Law not of physic) If you say any thing not according to the Bible we 
will cry treason. But if ye are not led by revelation how can ye escape the damnation of Hell? 
Here we have the testimony of four. I have the oldest Book in the world & the Holy Ghost. I 
thank God for the old Book but more for the Holy Ghost. 

The Gods came together & concocked the plan of making the world & the inhabitants. Having an 
knowledge of God we know how to Approach him & ask & he will answer. 

An other thing. The Learned Dr says the Lords made the world out of nothing. You tell them that 
God made the world out of sumthing, & they think you are a fool. But I am learned & know more 
than the whole world. The Holy Ghost does any how, & I will associate myself with it. Beaureau 
to organize the world out of Chaotic matter, element. They are principles that Cannot be 
disolved. They may be reorganized. 

Another subject which is Calculated to exhalt man I wish to speak of, The resurrection of the 
dead. The soul the mind of man, whare did it come from? The learned says God made it in the 
beginning, but it is not so. I know better. God has told me so. If you dont believe it, it wont make 
the truth without effect. God was a self exhisting being. Man exhist upon the same principle. God 
made a tabernacle & put a spirit in it and it became a Human soul. Man exhisted in spirit & mind 
coequal with God himself. You who mourn the loss of friends are ownly seperated for a moment. 


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The spirit is seperated for a little time. They are now conversant with each other as we are on the 
earth. 

I am dwelling on the immutibility of the spirit of man. Is it logic to say the spirit of man had a 
begining & yet had no end? It does not have a begining or end. My ring is like the exhistance of 
man. It has no begining or end. If [I] Cut in to their would be a begining & end. So with man. If it 
had a begining it will have an end. 

If I am right I might say God never had power to create the spirit of man. God himself Could not 
create himself. Intelligence is eternal & it is self exhisting. All mind that is susseptible of 
improvement. The relationship we have with God places us in a situation to advance in 
knowledge. God has power to institute laws to instruct the weaker intelligences that they may be 
exhalted with himself. This is good doctrin. It taste good. I can taste the principles of eternal life. 
So can you. They are given to me by the revelations of Jesus Christ and I know you believe it. All 
things that God sees fit to reveal to us in relation to us, reveals his commandments to our spirits, 
and in saving our spirits we save the body, the same as though we had no Body. 

How comes the awful responsibility if in relation to our dead, if they do not be baptized they 
must be damned? (I wish I had 40 days to talk.) What promises are made, what can be said if in 
the grave, God dwells in eternity, and he does not view things as we do? The greatest 
responsibility lade open us in this life is in relation to our dead. Paul cannot be made perfect 
without us. For it is necessary that the seals are in our hands to seal our Children & our dead for 
the fulness of the dispensation of times, A dispensation to meet the promises made by Jesus 
Christ befor the foundation of the world for the salvation of man. All sins and blasphemys were 
to be forgiven except the sin against the Holy Ghost. God has made provision for evry spirit in 
the eternal world, and the spirits of our friends should be searched out & saved. Any man that has 
a friend in eternity can save him if he has not commit the unpardonable sin. He cannot be 
damned through all eternity. Their is a possibility for his escape in a little time. If a man has 
knowledge he can be saved. If he has been guilty of great sins he is punished for it. When he 
Consents to obey the gospel whether Alive or dead, he is saved, his own mind damns him. I have 
no fear of hell fire that dont exhist. No man can Commit the unpardonable sin, untill He receives 
the Holy Ghost. All will suffer untill they obey Christ himself. Even the devil said I am a savior 
and can save all, rose up in rebelion against God and was cast down. 

Jesus Christ will save all except the sons of perdition. What must a man do to commit the 
unpardonable sin? They must receive the Holy Ghost have the heavens opened unto them, & 
know God & then sin against him. This is the case with many apostates in this Church. They 
never scease to try to hurt me. They have got the same spirit the devil had. You cannot save 
them. They make open war like the devil. 

Stay all that hear, dont make any hasty mooves. You may be saved. If a spirit of Bitterness is in 
you, dont be in haste. Say you that man is a sinner. Well if he repents he shall be forgiven. 

I could go back and trace evry subject of interest concerning the relationship of man to God if I 


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had time. Their is many mansions in my fathers Kingdom. 

What have we to console us in relation to our dead? We have the greatest hope in relation to our 
dead of any people on earth. We have seen them walk worthy on earth and those who have died 
in the faith are now in the selestial kingdom of God. They have gone to await the resurrection of 
the dead, to go to the celestial glory while their is many who die who will have to wait many 
years. But I am authorized to say to you my friends in the name of the Lord that you may wait for 
your friends to come forth to meet you in eternity in the mom of the celestial world. Those Saints 
who have been murdered in the persecution shall triumph in the Celestial world while their 
murderers shall dwell in torment untill they pay the utmost farthing. 

I have Fathers, Brothers, Children, that are gone to eternity soon to meet me. The time will soon 
be gone, the trump will soon be blown. 

A question. Will Mothers have their Children in Eternity? Yes, yes, you will have the Children, 
/But/ as it falls so it will rise. It will never grow. It will be in its precise form as it fell in its 
mothers arms. Eternity is full of thrones upon which dwell thousands of Children reigning on 
thrones of glory not one cubit added to their stature. 

I will leave this subject here and make a few remarks upon Baptism. I will read a tex in Jerman 
upon Baptism. John says I Baptise you with water But when Jesus Christ Comes He shall 
administer the baptism of fire & the Holy Ghost. John said his baptism was good for nothing 
without the Baptism of Jesus Christ. Many talk of any baptism not being essential to salvation 
but this would lay the foundation of their damnation. There has also been remarks made 
concerning all men being redeemed from Hell, But I say that any man who commits the 
unpardonable sin must dwell in hell worlds without end. 

[ ] 

Conference adjourned till tomorrow 10 oclock. 

[8] Conference met at 10 oclok April 8th. President J Smith arose and said it is impossible to 
continue the subject that I spoke upon yesterday in consequence of the weekness of my lungs. 

Yet I have a proclamation to make to the Elders. You know the Lord has led the Church untill the 
present time. I have now a great proclamation for the Elders to teach the Church here after which 
is in relation to Zion. The whole of North and South America is Zion. The mountain of the Lords 
House is in the centre of North & South America. 

When the House is done, Baptism font erected and finished & the worthy are washed, anointed, 
endowed & ordained kings & priests, which must be done in this life, when the place is prepared 
you must go through all the ordinances of the house of the Lord so that you who have any dead 
friends must go through all the ordinances for them the same as for yourselves; then the Elders 
are to go through all America & build up Churches until all Zion is built up, but not to commence 
to do this untill the Temple is built up here and the Elders endowed. Then go forth & accomplish 
the work & build up stakes in all North and South America. Their will be some place ordained 


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for the redeeming of the dead. I think this place will be the one, so their will be gathering fast 
enough here. 

President Smith lungs failed him and he appointed Elder G. J. Adams to occupy the time during 
the foumoon. He however remarked that his proclamation just made was the greatest ever made 
as all could not come here, but it was necessary that enough should come to build up the temple 
& get an endowment so that the work could spread abroad. 

Elder Adams took a text in Obadiah 17 vers upon Mount Zion shall be deliverance &c. He spoke 
lengthy concerning Zion that was to be built up in the last days & pointed out Joseph from the 
scriptures and brought much testimony to prove the subject. At the Close of the discourse 
President Joseph Smith turned over the conference into the hands of the Twelve And Adjourned 
untill 2 oclok. 

Met at 2 oclok & President Hiram Smith arose & spent most of the Afternoon in scoreing the 
Elders to try to teach them wisdom, that they might act in wisdom when they go out to preach. 
Conference Adjourned untill to morrow morning at 8 oclk. 

April 9th Conference [met] persuant to adjournment at 8 oclok President B Young in the Chair. 
Elder Amasa Lyman made some appropriat remarks. Had followed men that done more hurt than 
good flung more obstructions in the way than they took out. Had taken half of his time to remove 
prejudice caused by unwise Elders. For God sake dont preach a thing you dont know. Dont 
appear before the public in a capacity you cannot maintain. A man in Iowa Called a 
Congregation. The first thing he did was to read a Patriarchal blessing which had some strong 
meat in it. He would have done better to have preached the gospel. I had rather hear brethren 
appear small th[an] large. I had rather see a man hold his brother up than pull him down. Preach 
what will save men. The same that converted you will convert them. 

Elder B Young arose and [said] the above doc-trin was true and I will add a remark to it. If man 
tries to rise by pulling another down he will sink as soon as a peace of pot mettle. Preach faith 
repentance & Baptism. Say nothing but repentance to this generation. Need not go into mysteries. 
Preach the same over again. When I heard Br Joseph make his proclamation yesterday I thought 
it was a sweepstakes when he said North & South America was Zion. Any Elder that will be wise 
when he gets his endowment can go into any city & build up the largest church in the city. This 
prooves the prophet true, that the priesthood is fitted for the Condition of evry man & woman 
that was on the earth. Will the elders go out this season & preach the things we tell them to & 
then stop? Build up churches in all the world is a perfect knock down to mobs. Now Mo Mob 
away and best let us alone and we will evangelize the world and not make much fuss about it. 
Mob us & we will do it sooner. We want the Elders to electioneer for President Smith and we 
want to build the temple this season and by the help of God you we will do it. Pay your tithing if 
you want a seat in that house. Many other usful remarks was made by Elder Young. Conference 
Adjourned untill 2 oclok. 

Met according to adjournment and called to order by president Brigham Young. President Joseph 


Page242 




Young proceded to ordain a number of Elders into the quorum of the Seventies. 

B Young remarked O ye Elders of Israel you are the first fruits of the kingdom of God on the 
earth that is to swallow up all other kingdoms on earth. Now be wise and not fools like many 
smart young men who have su nk themselves in degradation & infamy, when you go out go 
before God in prayer and faith. Joseph said he was not known in our midst. He might live & die 
and not be fully known untill he was weighed in the balance in the eternal world. You do not 
fully know the day of your visitation. The work is beginning to be seen by the Saints. When J. C. 
Bennet went forth to try to destroy the Saints A little company of us went before God and asked 
him to take away his power, and it fell like lightning from Heaven. We asked for Duncan not to 
be Govor-nor. He was not but he is now dead and damned. We asked for Reynolds to be taken 
away. He soon shot himself & went to Hell. Carlin is dead and so our enemies have fallen on 
evry hand. Whare is the officers of Government in Washington? Seven were hurled into eternity 
in an instant by the bursting of a big gun. The bitter branches are beginning to be cut off. Take 
care O man how you oppose this work for their is a God in Israel. Cannot you practice virtue & 
holiness in this Church? Yes and it is the corrupt & wicked that oppose the work. Go out & do 
good and work righteousness. 

W. W. Phelps said we want to get up a general meeting in Nauvoo as a kind of convention and 
we want to do the same in all the states. He remarked that General Smith had undertaken a great 
work even unto the fulfilling of the Prophets relating to this dispensation. 

A contribution was taken up for Joseph Smith to meet a debt. $100 dollars was donated another 
hundred loaned. Conference was Adjurned untill 2 oclok Saturday to hear a discourse from Elder 
Taylor on politicks. About three hundred Elders volunteered to go out preaching this season. 
Their names were taken to be published in the Times & Season. 

April 10th Wendesday I spent the day at home to work in my garden. 

1 1th ij I spent the day in council. Some remarks wer made upon the principle of toleration. 

12th I spent the day at home. 

13th A meeting assembled at 2 oclok & herd a discours deliverd by Elder Taylor upon politicks. 
14th Sunday I spent the day at home. 

15 th Met in council with the twelve to arange the Appointments of the conferences for the 
season. 

16th Met in Council with the Twelve. 

17th Spent the day at home to work in my garden. I planted a quantity of Potatoes. 

18th jj I met in council today I was quite unwell with a severe Cold. /R D Foster Wilson & Wm 
Law Jane Law & Howard Smith of scott Co were Cut off from Church & Council./ 


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19th I was severely afflicted with a cold through the day. 

20th In company with Elder Brigham Young I left Nauvoo & rode to Lima in a buggy & spent 
the night with father Morley. 25 miles. 

2 1 Sunday It was a rainy day yet we held a meeting with the Saints. Their was a large number 
present. Elder Young preached in the fore part of the day. I spoke in the afternoon and was 
followed by Elder Young who addressd the Elders & Called for volunteers when 26 Elders gave 
their names to go out preaching. We spent the night at Br Morleys. 

22d A vary raining morning. In the afternoon we harnessed & went on to the city plot laid out for 
a city. Elder Young and myself bought a lot in the City. Parted with father Morley & rode to Br 
William Drapers & had to take shelter from a tremen-dious storm of wind hail & rain & spent the 
night. 

23d We returned to Nauvoo. I was glad to get home. 25 m. 

24th Spent the day at home to work in my garden. 

25 jj Met in council with the Twelve. 

26, 27 I got lime for plastering my house. 

28th Sunday I attended meeting in the evening with all the quorums of the elders to prepare for 
our missions. 

29th & 30 jj I commenced plastering my house. 

May 

May 1st & 2d jj jj Finished plastering two rooms. 

3d I hung 4 doors primed them & lade my lower floors, jj 

4th I mooved into my new brick house & truly felt thankful to have a comfortable dwelling to 
leave my family in while I go on my mishion. 

May 5th 1844 \ Q / I spent the day at home with my family to prepare for my summers mishion. I 
Called my family together & blessed them. Phebe washed my fees that I might be clean evry 
whit. I spent the evening at home. 

6th jj I spent the day in council & had a good time. Many of the Elders & Saints from abroad have 
arived of late among which are Elders J M Grant L. R. Foster & many others. Br John Neff and 
family have arived on a visit. They Called upon us. He is about to purchase of Br Joseph & return 
home. 

* On Sunday May 5th A number of Apostates met together & organized a new Church or 


Page244 




pretended to & took a strong stand against the Prophet Joseph & the Twelve & against the 
Church. The leaders of this band is Win. & Wilson Law R. D. Foster Chauncy & Francis Higby, 
& Mr Cole James Blakesley & others. 

7th jj I spent the day in Council the last time that I expect to meet in council in Nauvoo untill after 
my summers mission. I had an interview with Elder Whittaker. He assisted me to pile some wood 
in the Suller. It was a hard rainy day. Sister Barbara Neff spent the day with us. 

8th I spent the day in company with Mrs Woodruff in the garding weeding. 

May 9th 1 844 I arose in the morning and arranged some domestic affairs & was again under the 
necessity of parting with my family for the purpose of spending another summer on a mission 
through the United States to attend the general conferences. It has been my lot to travel in the 
vineyard evry summer with one exception for the last ten years of my live. I took the parting hand 
with my family & left Nauvoo in company with Elders G. A. Smith J. M. Grant and Ezra Thayer 
and son. Br Thayer had a team & offered to accompany us on our Journey. We rode to Laharp & 
spent the night. Elder Smith & myself spent the night with Elder George Colson. Br's Thayer and 
Grant at Br Shaw. We held a meeting in the place with the Saints. I addressed the meeting and 
was followed by Elders Grant & Smith. Distance of the day 25 m. 

/(JS) (HS) I this day took the last Parting hand & look with the Prophet and Patriarch at their own 
dwellings. O O what a look Joseph gave me. Ah he knew what I did not./ 

10 We left Laharp & travled across the beautiful prairies to Br Aaron Powers & spent the night 1 
1/2 miles from Greenfield on swan creek. Thousands of Pigeons were on his fann. 27 m. 

1 1th We travled across the prairies this day to Br Justice Ames On Ceder Creek within 3 miles of 
Galesburg. It was the first time I had been on his farm. He had a plesent place of 100 acres & 40 
acres in Com & wheat. They all appeared glad to see me. We spent the night with them. I talked 
with them untill about midnight. In the morning before we left, we lade hands upon Br Justice 
Ames & his Son Christopher Ames & ordained them unto the office of Elders. Distance of the 
day 20 miles. 


Page245 




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12th Sunday We parted with Br Ames family. He accompanied us on our way 12 miles to the big 
mound & we parted with him & he returned & we continued on to walnut grove & stoped at Br 
John Gaylord & fed the Horses. I accompanied Br Grant to his fathers house. He found them well 
except his mother was some out of health. His father Joshua Grant was a school mate of my 
fathers in Connecticut. Told an anacdote concerning a coon & a cheese. 

After spending 2 hours plesantly & dining with them we took our departure & rode to Fraker's 
Groove & spent the night with Br Austin Grant & Gideon Gillet. Distance of the day 3 1 miles. 

13th } I wrote a letter to Mrs Woodruff & sent By Elder Grant. Informed her to write to kirt-land. 
We had a rainy morning. We parted with Elder Grant and rode to Toulon and spent the night with 
Br Adam Perry. Held a meeting with the Saints & appointed a meeting at the Court House at 2 
oclock on the morrow. Distance of the day 9 m. 

14th Spent the fore part of the day at Br Lane's. Met at the Toulon Court House at 2 oclok 
according to appointment. When we arived the methodist had Collected saying they had an 
appointment at the same hour. We adjourned ours to Br Perrys. Before we arived at his house the 
M Preacher Came & wished us to hold our meeting in the Court House according to 
appointment. We did so. I preached & was followed by a few remarks by Elder Smith. We 
dissmissed our meeting & we stoped & herd the methodist preach his discourse. We spent the 
night at Br Lanes. 

^ We wrote a letter to the Editor of the Times. 


Page246 





15th A rainy day & we drove all day in the rain and stoped all night in Indian Town. Br Thayer & 
Son stoped at the Tavern & Elder G. A. Smith & myself spent the night at Mr Dunns. Distance 
33 m. 

16th We drove again all day in the rain & stoped for the night at Mr Hartsons in LaSalle Co. 
Distance 30. 

17th It still continues to rain. We met two families of the Saints moveing to Nauvoo. We rode to 
Ottaway called upon Br Sangen & took dinner. Saw Br Buzzard, Lightfoot. We found an 
advertisement for some of the Twelve to attend a meeting at the Court House & deliver a lecture 
upon the Subject of Gen Smith views of the govennent &c. Elder G. A. Smith stoped and 
attended to it. Had about 300 present. I continued on to the LaSalle Branch of about 50 members 
from Norway. I preached to them & had a good time & spent the night at Br Goodman Hogus. 
Distance 25 m. 

May 18th Conference met in Georgetown Newark Kendle co. at one oclok P.M. There were 
present W. Woodruff & G. A. Smith of the quorum of the Twelve 1 High Priest, 2 Seventies, 9 
Elders, 1 Priest, 1 Teacher. Conference Called to order by Elder Woodruff. Elder G. A. Smith 
Called to the Chair. Conference opened by singing and Prayer by the President. Representation of 
the several branches Called for. Archibal M. Wilson reprepresented the Newark branch: 



34 m 

1 Elder 

1 Teacher 

Ole Hare do LaSalle branch 

46 

2 Elders 


Elder Brighton do. Ottaway b 

16 

2 do 


" " Indian Creek 

5 



" Big Vermillion 

Elder Anderson Rep 

4 



Beavro Branch 

15 

3 


French Creek Grove 

2 



Plessant Grove McHenry Co 

0 

2 


133 m 

10 Elder 

1 T 


It was moved sooon & carried that: 


Canute Peterson 
Severt Olson 
Zimri H. Baxter 
Vance Jacobs 


Levi Lightfoot 
Simpson D. Huffaker 
Mades Madison 
And Oder Jacobson 


be ordained Elders. Also Henry Saba be ordained A Priest. Also Ole Johnson & Peter Maclin be 
ordained Teachers All of which persons were then ordained unto the offices assigned them under 
the Hands of Elders W. Woodruff G. A. Smith & Ezra Thayer. 


Appropriate remarks were then made by Elders Woodruff & Smith by way of council & 


Page247 




instruction to those who had been ordained, & was followed by Elder David Savage. Adjourned 
to Sunday 10 oclok. 

19th Met persuant to adjournment. Opened by singing, & prayer by Elder A.M. Wilsey. A 
discourse was then deliverd by Elder W. Woodruff in which he instructed the Elders to be careful 
to preach the first principle of the gospel & doctrin of Christ & not spend their time in warring 
with the opinions of other men. Showed the importance of revelation, & the necessity of A 
prophet of God as the head of the Church on earth, being as necessary in order to exhist & 
advance in knowledge as for a natural body to possess a head in order to live. He considerd we 
were enjoying the society of as good a prophet in this day as any people ever enjoyed any age of 
the world, & believed all good men would think so when they became fully aquainted with him 
& his principles. 

He was followed by Elder G. A. Smith who bore testimony to the truth of the fullness of the 
gospel. Councilled the Elders to be humble, and not get head & sholdiers above their brethren 
lest they fall like the tallest trees of the forest that are first swept down by the raging stonn & 
made many appropriate remarks which was well received by the congregation. Adjourned untill 2 
oclok. 

Met according to adjournment at the House of Br Manchester when the sacrament was 
administered to the Church & many testimonies given from the Elders & members present 
concerning the truth of the work they had recieved, & conference was dismissed amid the best of 
feelings, not ownly which was manifested by all the Saints, but by the whole congregation of 
citizens that attended. Good order prevailed through the whole conference. Attention kindness 
and civility was manifest by all who were present. 

Geo A Smith, President Asa Manchester, Clerk 

At the Close of the conference Elders Charles C Rich David Fulmer & Henry Jacobs Arived 
direct from Nauvoo & spent the night with us. 

20th } I wrote a letter to Mrs Woodruff & sent her $5 dollars. We sent a copy of the minutes of 
the conference for publication. G. A. Smith sent a few lines to his wife in the same. We mailed 
the letter in Newark. 

In the evening we all met at the school house to deliver a political lecture. 1 called the meeting to 
order & made some introductory remarks & introduced to the assembly Mr Henry Jacobs, who 
arose & read General Joseph Smiths views of the powers and policy of the government of the 
United States, to the assembly after which 1 introduced to the meeting Mr David Fulmer who 
addressed the assembly in an interesting manner. Showed that Gen Smith took a line between the 
two parties on the banking system & ever thing els almost. 

1 arose and followed him and urged our claims & rights to cast our votes for a president. Spoke of 
our persecutions, & the danger the whole people of the United States were in of being destroyed 


Page248 




by misrule & mob law if they permitted that principle to triumph. 

I was followed by Elder Mr Smith who deliverd a spirited address upon politicks. Spoke of his 
fathers fighting in defence of our country. Spoke of the treatment we had received from the hands 
of Vanburen & Clay, & Calhoon &c. All who had spoken had the assistance of the Lord. 

When we closed a certain Dr Smith arose and hurrand the people in a vile manner & raised a 
row. Their was some prospect of fighting, but with soft words we turned away wrath & returned 
home in peace, & spent the night with Br Wilseys. 

21 st We rode to Juliett & spent the night with Mr Dana. We held a meeting in a large school 
room & deliverd a lecture upon politicks. Mr G. A. Smith called the house to order & introduced 
me to the assembly & I arose & felt inspired by the spirit of God, & declaired in their midst our 
rights. Spoke of our persecutions, General Smith's views, our treatment by the government ie. the 
Judiciary, Leg-eslative and Execative department of Missouri & the United States. 

I was followed by Mr D. Fulmer & G. A. Smith. We had the best attention of the people & a 
good impression was made. Distance of the day 30 miles. 

22d I 1 We took away the licence from two Elders viz. Theophiles Walter Nixon and his licence 
was signed by George Coulson Laharp and Arariah L Maul, licence signed by T. W. Nixon. We 
all rode together. 8 of us in company &/GA Smith/ spent the night at Br Chapmans & I at Br 
Duals with Br Wilsons 24 miles east of Juliet Will Co 111 in 7 miles of la line. 24 mils. 

23d Crossed the line into Indiana & rode to Br Maine's & spent the night 8 miles of Val Parazo 
Porter Co la. 28 miles. 

24th We rode to Laport, Laport Co la & spent the night with Elder Wm. Rudd. Distance 28 
miles. 

25th We rode to Bertrand township, Berrian Co State of Michigan & spent the night with Br 
Gideon Brownell. Distance 20 miles. 


Notes of the Country 

From Ottaway to Newark is a fine prarie country with a mixture of timber, good improvements 
set-telled mostly with eastern people. 9 miles west of Ottaway is a Norwegian Settlement (about 
50 Saints among them). From Newark to Juliett is a fine country well improved. Mount Joylett 
stands about 3 miles from Juliett a splendid work of art. Canal passes through Juliett. It is a fine 
town. From Juliett east the land is not so good on to Indiana line. More wet & swampy. 

As we Come near the Indiana line we struk a sand ridge with a large swamp or swail on the 
North, a miserable country not worth paying taxes for except the timber. Many dwellings we 
passed all empty. 

We passed this kind of country to woods mills which is in Lake Co most of which is poor even 


Page249 




on to Valperazo in Porter Co la. About 12 miles west of Laport the land begins to improve for 
several miles. Their is a great forest of shugar maple beach oak & a great variety of timber which 
is Joined on the east by a most splendid prairie under a high state of improvement to Laport 
which is the beauty of the State of Indian. 

The land was poor about 5 miles to Niles. Niles is a flourishing town. We soon come to a forest 
of heavy timber of beach maple, Ash, Oak, & untill we reached little prairie round which is a fine 
prairie. Their is much good timber between little prairie round & Kallamazoo yet the land is 
mostly poor, many oak barrens, sandy, & stoney land. We pronounced Kalamazoo the best town 
we had seen since we left Nauvoo. The town of Comstock north of Calamazoo River is heavy 
timberd. The Country is ordinary ever [. . .] of land. 

26th Sunday We spent the day in this place. We preached in a school house in the fore part of the 
day & had good attention. We went in the afternoon to attend a meeting of Elder R. A. Sprague at 
the school house about 3 miles north. He had a full congregation of intelligent men. He soon 
closed when we went in & called upon us to occupy the time. 

I arose & addressed the people & was followed by Elder Smith. We left a good impression with 
the People. Many were believing & wished us to tarry with them. Their is a large field open for 
labour in this region of Country. 

We returned back to Br Brownalls. Took leave of the family & in Company with Br Sprague & 
Smith the presiding Elder we walked 3 miles & spent the night with Br Smith. Elder G. A. Smith 
& Thayer spent the night with Br Brownall. Distance of the day 12 mil. 

27th Monday We travelled through Niles, Poli-agen prairie, Little Prairie round, & spent the 
night with Mr Jacob Charles at Decater Vanburen Co Mich. He had a saw mill but a wilderness 
all around him. Distance of the day 35 miles. 

28th We rode to Kalamazoo the finest town we saw since we left Nauvoo. The improvements are 
after the eastern fashion. From thence to Comstock a small village. We turned to the right to 
cross a logway about a mile long through a ceder swamp. Our nigh horse stept between two polls 
& sunk in the mire & fell. We laboured hard to get him out for near 15 minutes we had fears he 
would break his leg. We had to draw him out by main strength but he got out unharmed. We had 
the horses across & drew the wagon by hand. The musketoes covered us almost like a cloud. 

After harnessing up, we rode a few rods & Came to Br Lemwell Wi®ard whare we found Father 
Bent & Br Miles. We spent the night here. I had the following dream: 

^ ' I was passing by my house with my cloak on & I saw Br Morgan & Harriett. I asked whare 
Mrs Woodruff was. The answer was in her room but she has company. I walked in to see her & 
found her in company with two females. It appeared like some of our friends from the east. I 
thought she appeared at first some unwell. I asked her how she did. She said I get along vary 
well. I told her I had not herd from her since I left home. She remarked I wrote you a letter day 


Page250 




before yesterday which would have been on the 26th of May. I did not see the children. 35 mi. 

29th We walked to Elder Ezekel Lees the presiding Elder of the Church. We Copied the 
following from the session laws of Michigan, which is div[id]ed into three congressional districts 
as follows to wit: The counties of Monroe, Lenewee, Washtenaw wayne & Hillsdale, first 
district, And Branch, St Joseph Cass, Berrian, Van Buren, Kalamazoo, Calhoun, Jackson, 
Allegan, Barry, Ionia, Eaton, Kent, Ottaway, Oceana, Newaygo, Mecosta, Notipekago, Aishcum, 
Manistee and Kautawauber is Second district. And Macomb, Oakland, Livingston, Ingham, 
Clinton, Shiawassee, Genesee, Lapeer, St Clair, Mackinae, Chippewa, Saginaw, Tuscola, 
Midland, Gladwin, Arenae, Ogemaw, Kanotin, Sanilac, Huron and all the other counties not 
named shall be denominated the third congressional distrit. 

30th I spent the day at Br Lees with about a dozen Elders. In the afternoon we held a meeting at 
the school house. Elder G. A. Smith addressed the assembly. I followed him. We had the spirit of 
teaching. We were followed By Elder's Bent, Z. Coolton, Keyzer, Dunn &c. We had a good 
meeting. Spent the nigt at Br Lees. Elders Charles C. Rich Fulmer, Moses Smith & H Jacobs 
arived which with us all together made a large company. 

3 1st A plesent day. We held a political meeting in Br Lees barn. General Rich called the meeting 
to order. Mr Henry Jacobs read General Smiths views. I followed him. Spoke of the foundation 
laid By Gen Smith to unite the nation. Spoke of our persecution, loss of our rights appeal to Mo 
& the nation being rejected, the danger the goverment was in &c. I was followed by Mr G. A. 
Smith & D Fulmer both of which spoke well. We left a good impression upon the minds of the 
people. We spent the night with Br Lee. 


June 

JUNE 1st Conference Minutes The Kalamazoo Conference of the Church of Jesus Christ of 
Latter Day Saints met at Elder Ezekiel Lee, in Comstock, Kalamazoo Co. Michigan on the 1st 
day of June 1844. Their were present 2 of the quorum of the Twelve viz. W. Woodruff & G. A 
Smith, 3 of the High Council viz. S Bent C. C. Rich & D Fulmer; 5 of the High Priest quorum 
viz. H. Green, Z. Coltrin, Moses Smith, E. Thayer & G Coltrin, 8 of the Seventies, viz. F Lee 
Thomas Dunn E. M. Webb, P. Webb, J. Hatch, J. H. Perry, W Hubbard, J. Vandeusan & D. 
Cornish, 14 Elders viz E. Lee, J Cramer, S. C. Willard, L. Ensign, C. Dunn, Norton Jacobs, D 
Savage, P. K. Smith &c. 2 Priest And 1 Deacon. Total 35. 

Conference was Called to order by Elder Rich. Elder W. Woodruff was called to the Chair. 
Elders C. Dunn, & E. M. Webb chosen clerks. Conference opened by singing & Prayer by the 
President. 

Representation of churches called for, when the following representation was given: 

The Kalamazoo Branch rep By E. Lee 

Members 44 6 E. 1 P. 1 D. 


Page25 1 




Grand Prairie Branch 

Kalamazoo Co. M. 

Ossego Branch Aligan Co. M. 

Pawpaw " Van Buren Co. M. 

Albian " Calhoun Co members 

Florrence Branch 

St Joseph Co members 

Motville Branch " 

Barry Co " 

Scattering " 

Total 


18 1 E. 

6 IE. 2 P. IT 

8 3 E. 

26 2E. IP. ID. 

10 1 E 

7 1 E. 

7 

10 E P T D 

126 15 4 1 2 


It was moved and carried that Gideon Brownell Jonathan Willard, And Charles Lee, be ordained 
Elders and Seth Taft to the office of a Priest And John W. Tyrril Teacher. 

The above named persons were ordained unto the offices assigned them under the hands of 
Elders W. Woodruff G. A. Smith, Z. Coltrin, S. Bent & D. Fulmer. 

It was moved and Carried that we sustain Elders Charles C. Rich & Harry Green, in their 
appointment to preside over the State of Michigan assigned them by the quorum of the Twelve. 

The day was occupied in giving much important instruction to the Elders. The assembly was first 
addressed by the President, who was followed by Elders G. A. Smith, Samuel Bent, C. C. Rich, 
Z. Coultrin, Harvey Green, David Fulmer, Ezekiel Lee, Graham Coltrin, E. M. Webb & Crandell 
Dunn. The Elders were strictly Charged to keep within the limits of the first principles of the 
gospel & let mysteries alone. It was assertained that some were unwise had preached fals things. 
Such things were corrected. 

The congregation was dismissed & the Elders Assembled together & was addressed by the 
President, & Elder G. A. Smith who forcibly urged home to their minds the necessity of their 
persuing a wise course in relation to their teaching, to let what they Called the mysteries alone. 
The names of some were called, as an exhample to the rest, who had been unwise in their 
teaching, among whom was Elders D. Cornish, & Keyzer. We were also informed that Elder 
Bottom was injuring the cause; As their was such a number of Elders present the greatest care 
was taken to give evry necessary information in regard to their missions that they might per sue a 
wise policy in all things assigned them. 

Sunday morning June 2d A large & respectable Audiance was assembled by 10 oclok A.M. 


Page252 





which was composed of many of the most respectable citizens of the County, who were 
addressed in the forenoon by Elder W. Woodruff followed by Elder Z Coltrin And, in the 
Afternoon by Elder G. A. Smith, followed by Elders D. Fulmer S. Bent & C. C. Rich, all of 
which ably set forth the first principles of the gosepl of Christ, & deliverd their testimony 
(attended with the spirit & power of God) unto the audiante who sat in silence manifesting great 
interest and attention. At the Close of the meeting that warmth of friendship & /feeling of/ 
kindness of that marks the noble & generous soul was manifest by many of the assembly among 
whom was Gen. Comstock & Dr Hood. 

At the adjournment of the conference the Elders were again called together & President C. C 
Rich Proceded to appoint the Elders their stations in the different Counties in the State. 
Adjourned sine die. W. Woodruff President 

Crandell Dunn 
E. M. Webb Clerks 

We have had an interesting conference & good time with the Saints. General Rich manifested 
much wisdom in concocking his plans in carrying out his work both on politics & religion, in the 
State of Michigan this Season. We took up a collection to assist us on our mission & obtained 
$4.50 & I sold $8.25 cts worth of Books. We took the parting hand with many of the saints & 
Elders who began to scatter abroad. 

We spent the night with Elder Lee. Elder Lee prooferd to Elder Smith if he would return he 
would give him 2 Boxes of fine Honey comb to take home with him one for his wife & one for 
mine. 

June 3d Parted with Elder Lee & family & rode in company with Elders G. A. Smith, Thayer, Z 
Colt-rin & C Dunn to Dr Warners Albian District. Vary poor land. Distance 40 m. 

4thNote(9) We Passed through Sandstone & Jacksonburgh a large town; the state prision is there. 
We spent the night at Br Noah W. Bartholomew near Jacksonburg. 

Here we found Elder Hiram J Brown who had been cut of from the church in Nauvoo by an 
accusation presented by Elder Elsworth. He was still preaching. We talked with him. He said he 
would harken to council & do what we told him to, manifested a good spirit & wished to be 
restored. Said that Elsworth misrepresented him. We gave him liberty to teach. We ascertained 
that Elder Samuel Parker had done much injury in teaching fals doctrin. 25 m. 

During this days travel we Called upon Br Samuel Graham. He was 87 years of age & was 
Baptized By Elder Zebedee Coltrin in the fall of AD 1832. As he was tortering for the grave we 
lade hands upon him & ordained him unto the office of an high Priest. Elder Z. Colttin was 
spokesman, After which Elders W. Woodruff & G. A. Smith lade hands upon him & sealed upon 
him the following blessing: 

Blessing 


Page253 




Samuel Graham in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ and by the Holy Priesthood and 
Apostleship confered upon us we lay our hands upon your head, which is blossoming for the 
grave. And we bless you with the blessing of Abraham of Isaac and of Jacob, for thou art the seed 
of Abraham of the tribe and linage of Joseph of the blood of Ephraim. 

Thy life hath been preserved for a special purpose in the mind of God, which purpose shall be 
fully known to the in the mom of the first resurrection. We seal the up unto eternal life. We say 
unto thee thou shalt have part in the first resurrection and thou shalt Come forth and stand with 
all thy posterity and thy kindred who shall enter into the everlasting covenant and recieve the 
gospel of Jesus Christ, and with them thou shalt recieve an exhaltation in the celestial glory of 
God. Thou shalt occupy that place in the linage of thy fathers designed for thee in the kingdom of 
God. 

Thy friends that remain after thou art in thy grave shalt recieve for and in thy behalf evry seal of 
the Covenant that belongs to the Melechezedek priesthood or the kingdom of God that should not 
be sealed upon thy head while thou art living, so that evry blessing that Abram Isaac or Jacob 
recieved shall be thine in the Celestial world. We seal upon thy head all the blessings that the 
patriarch of the church has in his heart to seal upon thee. We seal upon thy head the spirit of 
peace so that thou mayest feel & say like Simeon of old that thou hast seen the salvation of God 
and art made a partaker of the fulness of the everlasting Covenant. Thy body shalt rest in peace 
and arise with the just and enjoy Celestial glory. All these blessings we seal upon thy head in the 
name of JESUS CHRIST AMEN. 

June 5th Rode to Napolian. From thence to Mr John Lowery's & spent the night. A heavy shower 
of rain. 36 miles. 

6th Passed through Ann Arbor & rode to Plesant Valley town of Briton, Livingston Co. & spent 
the night with Br Benjamin B. Searle. Distance 40 miles. 

7th } Wrote a letter to Mrs P. W. Woodruff & sent her $5 dollars in money to pay to Baylis. I 
wrote to the Editor. Sent him a copy of the kalamazoo conference minutes and a short piece on 
poli-ticks. Laid hands upon a sick child. 

[8] Conference Minutes Plesant Valley Conference met at Br B. B. Searl on the 8th day of June 
1844 when the following Churches were represented: 

Plesant Valley Branch 

Livingston Co. 27 M 1 P. 1 T. 

Rose Branch Oakland Co. Members 9 1 

Napolian " Jackson Co. "8 2 E 1 ID. 

Jackson " Jackson "21 3 " IP. 1 ID. 


Page254 




Ceder 


Livingston Co. " 20 


1 D 


Monroe Co. "4 

Total Members 89 5E 2P. 4T 3D 

It was moved & carried that Alphonzo Terry, 

Samuel Gould, Isaac Williamson And Samuel Herring-ton, Be Ordained Elders And 
Lisander Terry be 

ordained A Priest. 

The above named persons were then ordained under the hands of Elders W. Woodruff G. A. 
Smith & Z. Coulton. 


Instruction was given to the Elders & assembly by Elders Woodruff, Smith, & Coltrin. 


Sunday 9th The Conference was addressed in the forenoon by Elders G. A. Smith & Z Coltrin & 
in the afternoon By Elders Woodruff Dunn & others & broke bread unto the Saints & had a good 
time. I spent the night with Mr Marsh. W 

Woodruff Pr 


Dunn Clerk 


C 


10th Direction to the Saints in the city of Boston. Elder Dudley No. 1 Cooper 67 Salem, cornor 
of cooper & Salem. Francis M. Wilson 564 Washington st New York McClain 182 Canal st., Mr 
Simpson 21 Chatham upstairs go through the store. The Prophet No 7 Spruce st. Dispatch 162 
Wilson & Co. 

} I wrote 2 Letters one to Father Woodruff family and one to our symsbury friends to notify them 
of our Conference. 25 <Saints>. We held a political meeting & had a good time. We baptized 2 
persons & Elder Smith & Myself confirmed them. 

June 1 1th We rode to Franklin whare we had an interview with Elders C. C. Rich D. Fulmer and 
a number of Elders. Here we found a branch of the church raised up by Elder Sarine. Our 
conference was to be here. But we found Elder Sarine in a deplorable state. He had been kicked 
in the face by a horse. Had his Jaw broken to pieces. Had been done seven weeks. Had mortifyed 
& large pieces of flesh had come off. We lade hands upon him & he seemed to be better for a 
while, but still he had a restless night. 

We took up our abode with Mr Van Avery. Four of his family were members of the Church. He 
is said to be the most wealthy of any man in Michigan. Distance of the day 25. 

12th We Preached in the afternoon in the School house but few were out. Br Sarine had a poor 
turn during the day. He feared his Jaw was mortifying. We lade hands upon him, & he was 


Page255 




enabled to attend the meeting but was vary feble. During the night we were Called up again to 
administer unto him & I spent the night with him. 

13th Elder Mephibosheth Sarine is much better today. We spent the day at Mr Van Avery's. We 
recieved a no of papers presented us by col Van Avery sent to him. He is postmaster of the Town 
of Franklin, Oakland Co. Michigan. Among those papers was one published by the friends of 
General Smith in New York entitled the Prophet. } We wrote to the Prophet in New York & 
incouraged them in their proceding. 

June 14th I spent the day at Mr Van Avery. 

June 15th Conference Minutes Conference opened in Franklin, Oakland Co. Michigan on the 
15th day of June 1844. There were present two of the Twelve, W. Woodruff & G. A. Smith, 5 
High Priest, C. C. Rich, H. Green, Z. Colton, G. Coltrin, D. Fulmer, 2 Seventies Wm. Burton & 
G. Savage, 9 Elders, 3 Priest 2 Teachers. 

President C C Rich called the house to order. Elder G. A. Smith called to the chair. Elder C. 
Dunn Appointed Clerk. Conference opened by singing, & Prayer by the President. 


Instructions were given from the chair Concerning the object of the conference, when the 
following branches were represented: 

Franklin Branch Oaklin Co. 




Members 

35 

IE 

IP. 

IT. 


Waterford " 

tt 

?t 


12 

1 

IT 


Livonia 

ft 

Wayne Co. 

tt 

12 

1 E 

1 P 

1 T 

Redford 

M 

tt tt 

13 

1 

1 


1 D. 

Brownstown" " 

tt 

ft tt 

23 

1 E 

1 P. 


1 D. 

VanBuren " 

Wayne Co. " 

10 

1 




Auburn 

?» 

Oaklin Co. 

tt 

13 

2 E 


1 T 

Superior br. " 


tt 

18 



IT 


Riga br. to Richfield 


?t 

18 

IP. 



ID. 


Royal Oak Oaklin Co 
Laplet Co. 

Confidence Essex Co West Canida 


3 

4 
9 


Total 170 8 E 5 P. 5T 3D. 


Page256 





After some instructions was given by the Chair 

It was resolved that Elder M. Sarine be ordained to 
the Office of High Priest. 

Resolved, that B. B. Searls, M. Wait, H Sprague C. Lumis S. Goodnell, C McBride, And 
Jonathan Collins in the 80th year of his age be ordained Elders. 

Resolved, That P. Van Avery, Jr. C. Hodge & S. Hopkins Be ordained Priest. 

Resolved that J. Taylor be ordained Deacon. 

The above named persons were then ordained under the hands of Elders G. A. Smith W. 
Woodruff & C. C. Rich. 

Resolved that we sustain Elders C. C. Rich & H Green in their mission assigned them by the 
Twelve. 

A spirited & edifying addresses was deliverd both by Elders Woodruff & Smith, & C C Rich 
directed mostly to the Elders, After which Conference adjourned till tomorrow 10 oclok. 

Sunday 16th A large Audiance assembled at 10 oclok and was addressed by Elder W. Woodruff 
& followed by Harvy Green, & in the Afternoon by Elder G. A. Smith and a good impression 
was made upon the whole congregation. C Dunn Clerk G. A. Smith President. 

We have been liberally entertained since we have been in this town by the generosity of Col Peter 
Van Every whose wealth & influence probably is not excelled by any in the State. He is a 
gentleman and a friend. 

June 17th } I wrote a letter to Phebe & done it up in a package with some golden seal & $ 12 
twelve dollars in silver & sent it home by Elder G. A. Smith. It will reach her about the first of 
August. I rode to Royal Oak in the rain & preached in the evening in the school house, & spent 
the night with Mr Cooper. 12 miles. 

18th } I wrote a letter to Phebe & sent her $4 dollars for herself & $2 for the Times and Seasons 
for Mr Wilcox for 1841. 1 sent the letter by C. Dunn to give to G. A. Smith. I took Steem boat at 
Detroit at 6 oclock & Paid $1 to Buffalo. Arived at Cleveland Ohio in the morning at 7 oclock. 
200 miles. 

19th I Found Elder L Foster and Tracy. They took steem Boat with me to Buffalo. We left 
Cleveland at 8 oclok. It was rough through the day. Many sea sick. Arived at Buffalo at day light 
next morning. Distance from Cleaveland to Buffalo 180 miles. 

20th Took Cars for Rochester at $1.75 cts. Arived at Rochester at 2 oclok. Took canal Boat 
Nassau, Telegraph line Wm. N Kent Master. Arived at Albany on the 25th being 5 days on the 


Page257 




way. Distance from Buffalo to Albany 365 miles. Expenses from Detroit to Albany $8.01. 

26th Took cars at Albany at 6 oclock A.M. & rode to the city of Boston. Arived at 6 oclok P.M. 
being 12 hours going 200 miles. 200 miles. 

I spent the night at Br Tuckers No [ ]. Expenses from Albany to Buffalo $4.50. 1 recieved 

Nauvoo papers & Prophet from NY. 

27th I had an interview with Elder B. Young. Spent the fore part of the day together. He took cars 
for Salem & I spent the latter part of the day at Elder Ananias McAllister, 296 Washington st. 

/We sat together in the depo while Joseph & Hiram were killed. Brother Young was vary 
sorrowful & pressed in spirit without knowing the cause./ 

I went to meeting in the Evening & confirmed Brother John Hardy & 30 other persons, most of 
which were rebaptized for the remission of sins. I spent the night with Br Jacob Phelps in Orange 
st. } I wrote a letter to Col Peter Van Avery. 

I found on my ariveal to Boston puite an excitement through the country concerning affairs in 
Nauvoo & reagions round about saying that the whole country was rising in arms in mob to 
exterminate the Saints. Most of the inflamatory speaches and excitement was got up by the 
Warsaw message and St Louis papers. They desire to extenninate the saints from of the earth, but 
the work is in the hands of God and he will direct all things aright. 

/(J T $ S) (H I 1 $ S) At 5 oclock this day the Prophet Joseph & Patriarch Hiram Smith fell. Sealed 
their testimony with their Blood. * They were murdered to appeas the wrath of a gentile mob as 
Christ was by a Jewish mob. Peace be to thy ashes, the most glorious resurrection to thy bodies 
and the American gentile nation answer for thy blood before the bar of God, And the murderers 
pay the price of the Lords anointed. * 4 oclok 16 m. 23 sec 5 1/2 at Carthage 6 1/2 at Rochester 
in the evening./ 

28th I spent most part of the day at Br McAl-listers. 

29th Boston Conference 

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints met in Conference at Franklin Hall on the 29th 
Day of June 1844. There being present a majority of the quorum of the Twelve viz seven as 
follows: B. Young H. C. Kimball, O Hyde O. Pratt Wm. Smith, L. Wight & W. Woodruff, And a 
large number of Elders. Elder B. Young took the Chair. Conference opened by Prayer. 

Conference was addressed in the fore part of the day by Elder O. Hyde, in an interesting manner. 
In the afternoon Elder's Young & H. C. Kimball adress the meeting and also Elder L. Wight. 

Resolved that James H. Glines & Wm. Henderson be ordained Elders. They were ordained under 
the hands of H. C. Kimball & B. Young. Conference adjourned till Sunday morning 10 oclok. 


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30th Met persuant to adjournment. Was addressed in the fore noon by Professor Orson Pratt, who 
took away all the objections of the world against new revelation. 

The meeting was addressed in the afternoon by Elder L. Wight, who showed the principle of the 
immortality of the body as well as the soul & also the principle of Charity, running it into 
Baptism for the dead. 

Elder W. Woodruff Preached in the evening from the words of Jesus saying "Ye are my friends if 
ye do whatsoever I command you. The house was full through the day and evening and much 
instruction was given through the day and evening and during the whole Conference by those that 
spoke. 


July 

July 1st 1844 State Convention of Jeffersonian Democracy. General Joseph Smith nominated for 
President Sidney Rigdon for Vice President. The Convention met at 10 oclok A.M. in the 
Melodian and was organized as follows: 

Hon B. Young of Nauvoo President 

Hon. Wm. Smith & Gen Lyman Wight Vice Presidents 

Hon Wilford Woodruff, Professor Orson Pratt of Illinois, Ananias McAllister Esqr of Boston, 
And D. H. Felt Esqr of Salem Secretaries. 

The Convention was addressed with much animation and zeal attended with sound argument 
during the day and evening By the President, Gen. L. Wight, Hon. O. Hyde, D. Spencer, Hon 
Wm. Smith, Prof. O. Pratt, All of Illinois And George B. Wallace Esq of Boston. 

A Preamble and many important resolutions were adopted all of which together with the 
procedings of the meeting were published in the Boston Daily Times of July 2d 1844. 

The Melodeon was Crouded in the evening and it was soon evident that a large number of 
rowdies were in the galleries & felt disposed to make [a] disturbance. And among others Abby 
Folsom made her appearance, & arose & commence speaking while the president was addressing 
the meeting. Soon a young man in the gallery rose and commenced a series of rowdy remarks & 
was encouraged by some mob companions untill confusion became general in the gallery, untill 
the policee came in to take him out. They were assaulted and beaten badly by a set of young 
desperadoes. After much hard lighting however they succeded in clearing the gallery. One person 
got badly cut in the face but not dangerous. The meeting was soon broaken up. This is a disgrace 
to Boston & shows the spirit of the times. 

Gen Lyman Wight said he had seen Eastern missionaries among the Indians trying to civelize 
them but he thought they had better commence at home first. He thought it best to send some sax 
& fox indians to Boston to civelize the city. 


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But notwithstanding the meeting was closed by a mob yet much good was done. The citizens 
Could see their was sufficient reasons to awaken the minds of the people upon the affairs of our 
goverment, in order to save them from ruin. The Convention was adjourned untill tomorrow at 
Bunker Hill at 4 oclok. 

/H. C. Kimball & S B Wallace was Appointed Delegates to the Baltimore National Convention./ 

July 2d We met at Franklin Hall at 8 oclok in the morning held a council, & dividid of into 
different parts of the vineyard or each one took several conferences to attend. We then all met at 
Br Phelps'es in Orange st & anointed Sister Smith wife of Wm. Smith & lade hands upon her for 
her sickness. 

We took the parting hand with each other after Prayers. I left the city & went on board of the 
steemer Com Pribble in company with Elder Milton Holmes an old friend companion & fellow 
laborer in the gospel. We had not met before for five years. It was quite a treat to enjoy his 
company one more. We left Boston at 7 oclok P.M. Was some sea sick through the night, & 
arived at Portland at 8 oclock. We walked to Scarboro & arived 

3d at Father Carters at about 2 oclok PM. I found Father Carter sitting at a window in the front 
room reading, and mother about her work both enjoying the best of health. Fabyan & his family 
were all well. 

I ascertained on my arival that Br S. B Stodard had been there & an appointment was given out 
for our Conference on Saturday & Sunday at the old meeting house. 

We spent the afternoon at Father Carters and after supper we walked up to Sister Foss'es & found 
her at home well. She was repairing her house. Put on a new roof, Clapboards, front door, 
intending to paint it throughout. We spent the night at her house. I had some conversation with 
her in the about evening about going to Nauvoo. She manifested a desire to go, but no door 
appeared to open before her. Distance from Boston to Scarboro 124 miles. 

4th } I spent the day with Elder Holmes at father Carters & rote a page and a half in a letter to 
Aphia S. Woodman which Elder Holmes sent to her. I walked with father Carter to see the old 
meeting house, to see if it would do to hold our Conference in it. We concluded it would. We 
visited his orchard & garding. All things looked well. Found the papers all through the Country 
full of stories or reports Concerning mobs annies &c gathering against Nauvoo mostly comes 
from Warsaw Message & St Louis paper. 

5th I rode in company with Father Carter to Saco & spent most of the day with Luther & Rhoda 
Scammans. They had sold their place but could not get away on account of a law suit that Albert 
Scam-mans had in order to get his Children which would not be closed untill late in the fall. 
Rhoda seemed much anxious to go with me & let Luther Come when he settelled his business. 
We returned back to father Carters & spent the night. Elder Toughs from Nauvoo arived in the 
evening, & four of us spent the night together viz S. B. Stodard, M. Holmes, Br. Touffs & 


Page260 




myself. Distance of the day 10 mile. 

6 th Scarboro Conference 

According to appointment we met in the Tilton meeting house, at 10 oclock their being present 
Elders W. Woodruffs. B. Stodard M. Holmes, Elbridge Tufts & Samuel Parker. Conference 
opened by Prayer By W. Woodruff. Elders M. Holmes & W. Woodruff occupied the time in the 
fore part of the day, and Elders S. B. Stodard, & E. Tufts in the afternoon. Their was but few 
present. 

I spent the evening with Sister Foss & Elders Holmes & Parker & the night at father Carters. The 

News paper stories concerning Nauvoo was pouring in like a flood, daily but the <[ ]> 

Saints are inthe hands of God. 

7th Sunday I was awoke in the morning with the loud talk of George Bothby. I spent some of the 
morning in conversing and writing. At 10 oclok we assembled in conference. About four hundred 
people assembled at an early hour. I addressed them upon the first principles of the gospel. As 
soon as I closed Hull Barton got up & spoke. I answered him & was followed by Elder M. 
Holmes. Father & mother Carter was present Luther & Rhoda Scammans Sarah Foss, & most of 
the neighborhood. Good attention was manifest. I had the spirit of speaking. We had an 
intennission of two hours. 

Met at 2 oclok & found an audience of about six hundred persons assembled, many from Saco. 
Elder S B. Stodard addressed the meeting one hour & had the spirit of speaking. I followed him, 
& felt free in leaveing my testimony with the people. We had the best of attention. As soon as I 
dismissed the Congregation Hull Barton arose and gave out an appointment for next Sunday at 
the Hayth meeting house. We returned to father Carters & spent the night. Timy. & Ham Came & 
contended awhile against the Brethreth. Items 

Dwight Everett wants his papers sent in John Hardys package to Boston, directed to Dwight 
Everett Taunton Mass. [ ] 

On our return from meeting Luther & Rhoda & a number of friends stoped at father Carters for 
awhile. Rhoda felt anxious to go on west to Nauvoo. Spoke of Phebe & felt anxious to spend 
some time with her. Sister Foss seemed to be bound in such a way that it seems difficult for her 
to leave. 

8th } I wrote a letter to Phebe at Sister Foss's. The brethren went to Saco. We Parted with Br 
Parker & his wife who went to Mexico. We feel an anxiety about our families in Nauvoo in 
consequence of the Persecution that rages in that region. We are sensible that the Saints will have 
to be tried whether they will abide in the covenant of God or not even tried unto death. I am 
satisfyed that all things will work together for the good of the Saints, and when they are 
sufficiently tried they will be deliverd. 

The Brethren returned from Saco bringing the latest news which sayes the mormon war had all 


Page261 




fiz-zelid out. That the general with his officers had showed their white feathers, & left the field, 
before a gun was fired, & so their was nothing to be done but to disband the troops, as their is no 
fighting to be done when their is nobody to be fought. This report it seems comes from our 
enemies the Warsaw message so we cannot tel what to depend upon whether it is War or peace. 
Time must deter-min. 

T $ $ I 1 July 9th 1844 I left Scarboro in the morning in company with Father Carter & Elder M. 
Holmes & rode to Portland, & dined with Ezra Carter & made preperations to take the steam boat 
in the evening for Thomastown & fox Islands. 

But about 2 oclok P.M. We obtained the Boston Times of July 9th Containing the solumn & 
awful information of the Death of President Joseph Smith the Prophet Seer & Revelator of the 
Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. Also the Death of Hiram Smith his brother the 
Patriarch of Said Church. They were shot dead in Cartha[ge] jail by a company of anti mormons 
& a guard that Governor Ford placed over them /200 men American citizens painted like 
indians/. 

Great excitement Prevailed & it was expected that the Nauvoo Legion would be exasperated & 
avenge their Blood, by rushing to battle against the Govonor & his guard that was camped 7 
miles from Nauvoo & also against Carthage & Warsaw & the whole Country was rushing to 
arms & could not tell whare it would stop. The families of Warsaw had gone to Quincy. The bells 
of the town were ringing & men were Called to arms, but where the end would be time alone 
must detinnin. The foregoing items I draw from the papers. We shall look for terrible accounts 
each day untill the Close of the Seene 

We also recieved a hand bill in the evening Concerning the mob war excitement &c in 
Philadelphia which was tremendious. In fact the nation seems to be ripe for Judgment. 

I spent the night with Sister Foss. I lade hands upon her & asked the Lord to Bless her. She felt 
Sorrowful about affairs in the west. Felt anxious about Phebe and the Children. My prayer is that 
God will prepare our minds for the worst & that we may maintain our integrity untill death, that 
we may overcome as Jesus has overcome. 

} I took out the letter from Portland P.O. that I sent to Mrs Woodruff on the 8th & Br Elbridge 
Tufts wrote to his Brother in Law Nathan Pinkham of Quincy 111. to take his family in Charge if 
they were breaking up & removeing from Nauvoo. I also requested him to take Charge of my 
family if they needed the favor. He keeps tavern by the side of the quincy house. Distance of the 
day 20 miles. 

10th I walked to Father Carters & spent the fore noon. Dined with them & took the parting hand 
with them, & rode with Sister Foss & Calvin & Br Tufts to Saco. Called upon Sister Rhoda. 
Luther was from home. Much anxiety was manifest about Phebe. 

I here took the Cars for Boston. Arived at 9 oclock with Elder Stodard. Distance 100 miles. Sister 


Page262 




Foss gave me $1 Calvin 50 cts Rhoda Scammans $2.50 cts to help bear my expenses home. I had 
to pay $2.75 cts to Boston. 

1 1th All accounts from the west Confirm the report of the Death of the Prophet & Patriarch of 
the Church viz. Joseph & Hiram Smith & some reports say that Elders Richards & Phelps were 
killed & others Contradict it. 

} I wrote a letter to Mrs Woodruff & sent by Elder Stodard. I also sent by him the letter I took out 
of the Portland P.O. Br Stodard started for New York. He let me have: 8 Hymn Books 40 

$3.20 

6 Priesthood 20 $1.20 

Total $4.40 

I spent the fore part of the day at Br MeAllisters. Several Elders were present who felt to mourn 
the death of the Prophet & Patriarch. 

I attended meeting in the evening with the Saints in Boston. They felt to mourn the loss of the 
prophet & Patriarch of the Church, yet they were strengthend in the faith & we had a good time. I 
spent the night at Br Phelps. 

12th } I wrote a letter to the Editor of the Prophet giving a word of exhortation to the Saints 
abroad, to maintain their integrity & keep the faith and Patience of the Saints untill death. The 
accounts still Continue to Confirm the death of the Prophet and Patriarch to be a cold Blooded 
murder. 

13th (Prophet)(Patriarch) We obtained information this morning from quincy as late as June 
29th. The Govonor had made Quincy his head Quarters for he could neither trust the people or 
Melitia in that region of Country. Had made a Proclamation to the citizens of the State, would 
protect either Party against an attact. The mormons had done all that Could be required of them. 
Still their appears to be a disposition of the people & troops to try to destroy Nauvoo. The 
Govonor acknowledges the death of the Prophet and Patriarch to be a wanton murder. 

We do not obtain one word from any of our friends so that we can obtain anything Correct upon 
the subject. I hope we may get sumthing soon. I expect the mails are stoped. Mob spirit is rising 
through out the Country. Philadelphia is full of it. War is again Proclaimed against Texas by 
Mexico & the world is sheding the blood of Prophets, Patriarch and Saints in order to fill up their 
Cup. 

14th I held meeting with the Saints to day in Franklin hall franklin st Boston. I preached in the 
forenoon administered the sacrament in the afternoon & Preached again in the evening. We had 
an interesting time. I had the spirit of Preaching. I spoke in the forenoon from Luke 21 eh. in the 
afternoon to the saints from the doctrins and covenants & my Journal, in the evening from Rev 
14 Ch 6 7 & 8 verses /& Rev 6 eh. 9, 10 & 1 1 verses/. The house was Crowded through the day. I 
spent the night at Br Phelps. 


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15th } I sent Mrs Phebe W. Woodruff Benn[on?] weekly herald containing cuts and accounts of 
the Philadelphia riots & of the death of Joseph & Hiram Smith. 

16th } ^ As I arose in the morning Sister Phelps handed me two Letters one from [.] Snow and 
one from J. E. Page both Confirming the death of the Patriarch and Prophet Joseph & Hyram 
Smith. I immediately wrote three letters & sent to Brigham Young one to Peterboro N.H. one to 
Lowell & one to Brab-ford Mass. I then went to the Post Office & took out a letters directed to G. 
A. Smith written mostly by his wife. Mrs Woodruff wrote a few lines in it to me the first 
intelligence I had from her since I left home. She related the following dream that Joseph Smith 
had a few days before he sealed * his testimony with his blood, about Wm. & Wilson Law: 

He thought they bound him and cast him into prision a pit or well as Joseph was anciently. He 
struggled hard & got up so he could look out & he saw the Laws a little distance off one of them 
in the hands /grasp/ of a tiger & the other a snake. They called to him to come & help them. He 
told them they had bound him & they could not. He thought a brother soon came along & took 
him out of the pit. * 

I called upon Sister Voce 57 Temple St. Saw Sister Ruth Sayers who was with her. She also 
recieved a letter from her husband this day Dated Nauvoo June 30th & still confirmed the death 
of Joseph & Hiram Smith. Gave the whole particulars Concerning it. 

17th /I have never shed a tear since I heard of the death of the prophets untill this morning but my 
whole soul has felt nerved up like steel./ 

Elder B. Young arived in Boston this morning. I walked with him to 57 Temple st and called 
upon sister Voice. Br Young took the bed and I the big Chair, and I here veiled my face and for 
the first time gave vent to my grief and mourning for the Prophet and Patriarch of the Church 
Joseph and Hiram Smith who were murdered by a gentile mob. After being bathed by a flood of 
tears I felt composed. Elder Young left the city. I spent the night at Br Phelps. 

18th } Elders O. Hyde H. C. Kimball and O. Pratt arived in the City also President B. Young. We 
met together. Had some Council. I wrote a letter to the Prophet, advising the Elders who have 
families in Nauvoo to go immediately to them & for all the authorities of the Church to assemble 
at Nauvoo for a council, by order of the quorum of the Twelve Wilford Woodruff Clerk B. 

Young President After which Elder O. Hyde and myself accompanied Sister Voice to take tea 
with a sister who was attending to a house near the state house fronting the Common. 

We walked all over the house & took a view of the furniture. It could not have Cost much less 
than one hundred thousand dollars to have furnished it. 

After tea we walked to meeting in a hall in Washington st opposite Boydston hall. Elder Hyde 
had advertised to Preach upon the murder of Joseph and Hyram Smith and take up a collection at 
the close to pay his expenses home. The following is a brief synopsis of the same: 


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The speaker read the 24 Ch. Matthew 9 to 14 verses as the foundation of some remarks. Said he 
would much rather leave the strife of men, and spend his time in speaking of the gospel of Jesus 
Christ But it is my design to night to speak upon the death of the Prophet & Patriarch. Some 
might think because of the death of the men it would put a stop to the work but not so. When 
God has sent a man men at any time they were opposed by the world. For any generation, that has 
a prophet of God in their midst they see his weakness as touching human nature & the people are 
watching for iniquity & they spend all their time talking about any thing they see him do that 
does not accord with their traditions & tell a great many falshoods about him but entirely forget 
and overlook all the good he does. 

It was so with our Savior. Men looked upon him as an impostor and Beelzebub the Prince of 
devils, and when he was crucifyed they were not satisfyed with his dying merely but went and 
thrust a spear into his side and their came out Blood and water. But how is it now with the 
Savior? All profess to believe on him. They dont talk about what his persecutors said were his 
bad deeds but his good ones. 

When a man dies his bad deeds die with him and his virtues live and grow brighter. The gentiles 
say if I had lived in the days of the Savior I would not have killed him but would have rejoiced. 
But imagin yourselfs living in the days of an inspired man. How would you look upon him? As 
the worst of men the same as they did. 

A man told me he dreamed that some man spoke to him and said Lama, Lama, and he looked and 
it was Joseph Smith retreating from him and saying those words, the interpetation of which is my 
God my God & when Joseph Smith was shot he repeated those words. So with the Savior when 
he was crucified. He said Lama, Lama, Sabacthana. 

As the Jews were not satisfied with killing Jesus Christ, but must thrust a spear into his side so 
with the gentiles. They were not satisfied with shooting the Prophet but stabed him with a dagger 
in the breast. As soon as they killed them they all fled and in an hour their was not a man left in 
the place. But the wicked flea when no man persues. 

But why did the people murder this Prophet? What were they afraid of? O if he lives he will take 
away our power of goverment get the rule in his own hands and we will be distroyed. But they 
were mistaken. If they had let him alone or had recieved him he would have saved the nation 
from ruin and destruction. But now the nation has got to answer for his blood and the blood of 
his brother both of which were the Lords anointed. Besides the nation will now be deprived of 
the benefit of that wisdom and intelligence which the Prophet seer & revelator would have 
brought to light that would have been used for the benefit of the nations. 

But now their die is cast and doom is sealed, & their judgment will come in an hour they are not 
aware of. It was so with the Jews. They said if we let Jesus alone he will come and take away our 
state and Nation so they crusifyed him shed his blood and said let it be upon us and our Children. 
And the judgments came upon them. Their city was laid in the dust, & the inhabitants fell by the 


Page265 




sword & famine and the remnant was scattered throughout the gentile world, while if they had 
recieved Jesus Christ he would oft had gatherd together the people & saved the City. 

When the nations of the earth send their messengers or ministers to any people & they are not 
recieved but treated lightly and killed will not that nation take vengance on their enemies? Is God 
then of less consequence than man? When he sends his Prophets, messengers & servants to the 
world with a message & the people Cast them out stone shoot and kill them will not God take 
vengance on that nation? Yea he ever did and ever will, and this nation will not escape. 

John said in pouring out the plagues upon the earth 16 ch. 3 v. that he poured out his vial upon 
the sea and it became as the blood of a dead man and evry living soul died in the sea. And the 
third angel poured out his vial upon the rivers and fountain of waters and they became blood. 

And the Angels Said the Lord was righteous in so doing for they have shed the blood of Saints 
and Prophets and thou hast given them blood to drink for they are worthy. 6 v. 

Some say it was in the days of Jesus Christ, But it was not in the days of Jesus Christ for John 
lived after and saw things in the last days. It seems that the waters was turned to blood because 
they had shed the Blood of Prophets and Saints. Their was to be two Prophets in Jerrusalem 
slain, for they tonnented them. Prophets are always a torment to the People for they tell them the 
truth, reprove their transgressions speak of the Judgments that are to come. When those prophets 
were to be slain the people all would rejoice & send Presents to one another because the prophets 
who had tormented them were slain. But in three days they stood upon their feet & the Joy of 
their enemies was of short duration. 

It is so now. Their is a secret Joy in the hearts of the Priest and many people that the Prophet and 
Patriarch is murdered and some manifest their joy openly. It is always a dark time Just before 
day. It is a dark time now but it will soon be light. 

When Christ was crucifyed it was a dark time. They were ready to go to their farm fishing and 
merchandize and Peter sent to inquire if he was the one or if we should look for another. The 
answer was go and tell them what you see and hear. Feel my body I have arisen. And Joy 
immediatly arose in their bosom. As soon as the Jews found he had arisin they bribed the guard 
to say that while they were asleep his deciples stole him away, which saying is believed among 
the Jews untill the present day. And they are taken in their own snare for it has been that vary key 
that has Chained them untill the present time, & so it is with this nation. They have sealed their 
damnation by shedding the blood of the vary man that holds the keys of this last dispensation and 
consequently their destiny. 

A word about Br Joseph being killed. Some have thought he could not be killed. But the Lord 
never said so neither did Joseph say so. So did Peter say to Jesus when he told him that he would 
be slain or offered, far be it from thee. This shall not come upon thee. Jesus said get the behind 
me Satan. Thou savoreth not the things that be of God but of men. 

In the first instance The Prophet crossed the river to Iowa & while there he inquired of the Lord 


Page266 




what he should do and the Lord told him to return and give himself up. He appeared to be aware 
that he would be slain. The covenants convey this same idea concerning Joseph. See Page 159 4 
par. Behold I grant unto you eternal life if you should be slain. Page 126, 1 & 2 Par. 

It is supposed by some that the Govornor had a hand in this affair. At first they were not ready to 
recieve him for the plan was not finished how to dispose of him. The Govornor had taken away 
all of the state arms, & was in Nauvoo requesting them to give up their private arms at the same 
time that they were murdering our brethren at Carthage Jeal. As soon as the word Came the 
govornor fled. The women and Children removed so as to stir up the world to come and destroy 
the place but this failed. 

In consequence of the death of the prophets the Editors seem to get the spirit of prophecy and say 
the work is done & will stop, and die. But as I am in the midst of the Prophetic Editors like Saul I 
ketch some of the spirit of Prophecy, & so I will prophecy that instead of the work dying it will 
be like the mustard stock that was ripe that a man undertook to throw out of his garding and 
scattered seed all over it and next year it was nothing but mustard. It will be so by shedding the 
blood of the prophets. It will make 10 saints whare their is one now. 

Some said that he would be President, but is now dead. Now what will he do? The Revelator 
Says He that overcometh will I give Power over the Nations and he shall rule them with a rod of 
Iron. I dont know but he may hold the keys of the Plagues that are to be poured out in the last 
days upon this and other nations. Angels appeared anciently to John who were his fellow 
servants. The prophet Joseph may appear in this day to his brethren. 

This gospel of the kingdom must be preached in all the world for a testimony. Then shall the end 
come. Though they should be persecuted if they endured to the end they should be saved. This 
generation speak much about the clouds and weather. They disem the face of the sky but why can 
they not disem the signs of the times? The fig trees are leaving and all things indicate the second 
advent of Christ. 

Elder B Young arose and Said he felt disposed to add his testimony. Be of good cheer. The 
testi-ment is not in force while the Testator liveth. When he died it was in force. So it is with 
Joseph. On the day of Pentecost their was but 120 of the Saints, but at that time their were added 
3,000 souls. When God sends a man to do a work all the devils in hell cannot kill him untill he 
gets through his work. So with Joseph. He prepared all things gave the keys to men on the earth 
and said I may be soon taken from you. 

I recieved an extra Nauvoo Neighbor during the evening which gave an account of the death of 
the Prophet & Patriarch. At the close of the meeting I went home and spent the night with a 
brother. 

19th * I borrowed $10 dollars of Br Bickford of Boston & gave my note for it and $5 dollars of 
Brother Wingate & gave my note for that. I received $12 dollars from Br John Hardy for 6 Books 
of T & S & $9 dollars for Books that Br Phelps sold for me. /The above money is paid./ 


Page267 




Br Reuben Hedlock address in Liverpool is 36 Chapel st. J. Hardy is 91 Commercial st Boston. I 
had a present of a Coat from sister Jones of Boston. 

} Br Samuel Dam wished me to send him all the Times and seasons Bound and the covenants & 
Book of mormon & he will pay the money. He spoke of Bying a lot of me. I spent the night at 57 
Temple st. 

20th I left Boston in rail car to westfield & Buggy to Br Ashbel Dewey's on little River street. 
Expenses $3. Spent the night with Br Deweys. 120 m. 

21 Sunday I Preached in the school house forenoon and afternoon, & broke bread unto the Saints. 
They made me a contribution of $ 10 and Ashel Dewey let me have $ 10 on Br Sparks Book 
account, which I gave him an order for on Br Sparks. I recieved $1 dollar for the Temple from 
John J. Stocking. I recieved $1 dollar for the Temple from Elizabeth Easton. I recieved $4 dollars 
for the Temple from Maria Dewy. I recieved $10 dollars ina letter to go to a man in Nauvoo from 
Vinson Shirtliff from Russell Russell Depo Mass. Call upon Titus Billings & he will tell whare 
the letter is to go. 

I took the parting hand with the Saints and rode to Simsbury. Called upon Aunt Cosset. Found 
her still deranged but better. Spent the night at Phelps Tavern. 25 miles. 

22d (Home)(Home) I parted with the friends in Simsbury and rode to my Fathers house in 
farmington and was truly glad to once more behold the face of my Father and step mother. I 
found them alone not a child with them in their decline of life to watch their cares. I had but 24 
hours to spend with them. I happily improved it. I never enjoyed a better visit with them. 

My mind had been deeply impressed for weeks that I had sumthing to do for my parents before 
they died. Now was my time. My father was near seventy 1611 years of age. I might never see him 
again. That night I shall never forget while time endures. Eternity alone can ownly unfold the 
strength of its deeds. As the Sable Shades of night drew her Serene Curtin ore the earth to still 
the cares of day we met alone; none but congeniel spirits their. 

Wilford arose and with the spirit of a Joseph towards his father Jacob opened his heart J to his 
father and spoke his mind. The sentiment was re-cieved. I lade my hands upon my Father Aphek 
head (And according to the authority of the Priesthood and Apostleship confered upon me by the 
Revelations of Jesus Christ under the hands of the Twelve Apostles, President B. Young being 
mouth upon the cornor stone of the house of the Lord in far west in the land of Zion,) I ordained 
My father Aphek Woodruff unto the office of an high Priest and Patriarch after the order of 
Melchezedeck. I sealed him up unto eternal life. I placed upon his head the seals of the covenant. 
[One and a half lines crossed out and illegible .] 

When all was oer it was right, my soul was satisfyed. I had accomplished what my soul longed 
after. My Dear father and stepmother retired. I was left alone: Alone did I say? No not alone. A 


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congeniel spirit, A kindred spirit dwelt with me, around my * bed upon my briest, within my 
heart. 0 glorious night. Sleep departed from me. Meditations, seenes and visions of by gone days 
and days to come, fonned my covering, my curtain. Who knows the sweets of obedience, the 
gospel, eternal truth? The Ancient Patriarch’s. So do we. 

I shall never forget the last night I spent beneath my fathers Roof. I may never spend another 
there. O God protect my aged father, through life. Let the strength of Parental obligation rest with 
due wait upon my head. Console the heart of her who has watched my wants, my youth, my life, 
and when my mother rises from the grave let the union of my father be like a three fold cord not 
easily broaken. $ $ $ Let him stand in the linage of his fathers in his exhaltations. What I say 
unto one I say unto all. Watch, for thoughts dwell deep, but words pass away, j g | / | \ (Vera 
amieitia est sempitema.) 15 m. 

23d Tuesday I took the parting hand with father and mother with great Satisfaction. A pecu-lier 
Charm was thrown around my soul as I left the threshhold of my fathers house, having the 
confidence that if I never see my father in the flesh again I shall meet him in the first resurrection. 
I had a desire in my heart that all the ordinances of the fulness of the gospel might also be 
administered unto father and mother Carter that they may sleep in peace. May God grant the 
request. 

I rode in company with Landlord Phelps to the railroad depo in New Briten. Took rail road to 
New Haven. Spent 10 hours in the place mostly at Mr Tuttles. Was with Br Terrill. Did not see 
Br Davis. Took Steem Boat at 10 oclok. Arived at New York next morning. Distance from 
Farmington Ct. to New York 150 miles. 

24th I Called at the Prophets office but no one at home. I then took steem Boat for Albany and 
found on board Elders O. Hyde and O Pratt and sister Sayers. I was truly pleased to meet with 
these friends. We rode to Albany and Troy. 166 mile. We there took rail cars for Buffaloo. At 
Schenactady we Joined Elders B Young H. C. Kimball and L. Wight making six of our quorum 
to accompany each other home. We rode all night. 

25th We continued our Journey all day in the cars. Arived at Buffalo in the evening being 365 
miles from Troy in 24 hours. Expenses of travelling and sundry articles from Westfield to Detroit 
$32.20. 

26th Took steem Boat in the morning and in 24 hours arived at Cleavland. O Hyde left at fairport 
to visit his family in Kirtland. 

27th We arived at Detroit in the evening on board the Buffalo. Spent the night at the rail road 
Hotel. 

28th Sunday We took the propeller Hereles for Chicago at 10 oclok fare in Cabin $7. 1 spent a 
part of the day in writing. We had good state rooms and was Comfortable. We spoke of our 
families free-quently and the death of Joseph and Hiram. We felt anxious to get home. 


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I conversed with the quorum of the Twelve. Elder B. Young expressed his feelings to me upon a 
variety of subjects. Among others wished me to keep an account of things as he should look to 
me for his Journal some day. Brothers Kimbal and Pratt were quite sociable. As to Elder Lyman 
Wight we were always on good terms. We had an interesting time together. We talked over old 
times and looked forward to new ones. He informed me that Joseph told him while they were in 
Joal that he should not live to see forty years but told him not to reveal it untill he was dead. Br 
Wight as well as the rest of us feels his death deeply. 

1/ |\ 29th We had a plesent time in gliding smoothly over the bosom of the lakes. 

30th We arived at the Macinnau. Stoped awile & got some fish took some indians in tow and 
went along. Their is a spirit manifesting itself through the boat of prejudice against us because 
we do not mingle with them in their nonsens and folly. Our spirits are not congeniel and they 
wish to speak evil of us while we walk uprightly. This spirit is manifest more or less throughout 
the gentile world. 

3 1st The opposing spirit is still previlent through the boat. It is not plesant to be in the midst of it. 
We are travelling through the Michigan lake vary smoothly under different feelings from what I 
passed in 1841 with my family wreked on the Chesepek. 

August 

August 1st We stoped at Milwaka & racene. The lake smooth, But some spirits rough. We begin 
to feel in bondage among the gentiles. We arived in Chicago in the evening. Put up for the night 
in the lake street house. Had good accommodations and Cheep Breakfast and lodging. 37 1/2 cts. 
Distance from Buffalo to Chicago 1,100 miles. 

2d Left Chicago friday morning. Took Stage for Galena. Paid fare $8. Rode all day and all night 
through a delightful fanning Country but we had a bad road. Had to walk some. Had a heavy 
load. We did not rest much during the night. 

3d Continued our Journey through the day and night still through a splendid Country. The 
Country began to be rough as we drew towards Galena. We arived in Galena Sunday morning 
about 8 oclok. Distance from Chicago to Galena by Stage 160 miles. Fare $8. Board $1.75. 

Sunday 4th We all arived here almost exhausted with fatigue, being 48 hours in the stage without 
stoping ownly to take our meals & over a rough road. We stoped for the day and night at the 
America House, washed up, changed our clothing & spent most of the day abed trying to get 
some rest. I walked out through the evening in the town to take a view of Galena. It is built in the 
side of a mountain on the bank of the river. A rough place. I should judge about 3,000 
inhabitents. The buildings generally small. Some good houses. I dreamed during the night of 
seeing Br Asahel at Farmington Ct. at fathers house. 

Aug 5th Monday This is the day of election in this state. Their will probably be some fighting 


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and perhaps some blood shed as men are geting wicked and about ripe for judgment. Their was 
some fighting in the bar room below last evening but nothing vary serious. Elder Kimball had a 
dream last evening. Thought he was preaching to a large Congregation. Said the Prophet Joseph 
Smith had laid the foundation for a great work and it was now for us to build upon it. He thought 
Br Joseph was present and appeared natural. We took the steemer st Croix and left Galena for 
Nauvoo. We had a plesant sail through the day and evening, though some unplesant feelings 
during the evening. 

6th g We stoped at various places on the river among others Burlington, after which we prepared 
our minds to once more behold the City of Nauvoo & embrace our families & friends. We arived 
in the city of Nauvoo at 8 oclock in the evening at the upper stone house. We were hailed with 
Joy by all the Citizens we met. I accompanied the quorum of the Twelve to their families after 
which I was conveyed to my own and truly felt to rejoice to once more embrace my wife and 
Children. 

I spent the night at home with my family. Thus it is with me. I have not spent but one summer 
either at home or with the church, for the last 10 years as my lot has been all the day long in the 
vineyard. I go and come from year to year. Distance from Galenia to Nauvoo 250 m. 

When we landed in the City there was a deep gloom seemed to rest over the City of Nauvoo 
which we never experienced before. 

Aug 7th 1844 I went forth this morning through the city of Nauvoo. Saw many friends & met 
with the quorum of the twelve at Elder Taylors. We were truly glad to see each other. Br Taylor 
was getting well of his wounds that he recieved in Jail in company with Joseph and Hiram Smith 
when they were murdered. We were glad to see Dr Richards who escaped unhurt. We were 
recived with gladness by the Saints throughout the city. They felt like sheep without a shepherd, 
as being without a father, as their head had been taken away. 

We spent the fore part of the day at Br Tay-lors, and in the afternoon, we met in Council at the 
Seventies Hall, viz the Twelve, High Council, and High Priest &c. & we herd Sidney Rigdon tell 
his Story and message which he had to us and the Church. A long Story it was a kind of second 
Class vision. He said he was appointed to come and offer himself to lead the Church, and many 
things was said. He was followed by Br Brigham Young and he showed that their could not be 
any one before the Twelve. A conference was appointed for the whole Church to come together 
on Tuesday next at 10 oclok. 

8th Their was a meeting appointed at the grove for the Church to come together for Prayers. But 
in consequence of some excitement among the People and a dispositions by some spirits to try to 
divide the Church, it was thought best to attend to the business of the Church in the afternoon 
that was to be attended to on Tuesday. The Twelve spent their time in the fore part of the day at 
the office and in the afternoon met at the grove. The following is the business of the day: 

{) All the authorities of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints in and about Nauvoo met 


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in a special Conference in the grove in Nauvoo at 3 oclock. The quorum of the Twelve, 
Councillors S. Rigdon & A Lyman, the High Council, and others occupied the Stand. The High 
Priest quorum, & quorum of the Seventies and Elders, Bishops, Priests, Teachers & deacons 
appeared in their several quorums and took their seats and also a vast Congregation of Saints. 

When all was seated that Could get seats President B. Young arose and said Attention. All this 
congregation makes me think of the days of king Benjamin when the People was so great that 
they Could not make them hear. But we want your attention. 

Wm. W Phelps was called upon to address the throne of grace which he did do most fervently. 
President B Young again arose and said let none complain because of the situation of the 
congregation. We have all done the best we could. 

For the first time in my life for the first time in your lives, for the first time in the kingdom of 
God do I step forth to act in my capacity in connexion with the quorum of the Twelve as 
Apostles of Jesus Christ unto the People and to bear of the keys of the Kingdom of God in all the 
world. And for the first time are you Called to walk by faith not by sight. For always before you 
have had a Prophet as the mouth of the Lord to speak to you. But he has sealed his testimony 
with his Blood. 

I now want to ask each of you to tell me if you want to chuse a gardeen, a Prophet evangelist or 
sumthing els as your head to lead you. All that are in favor of it make it manifest by raising the 
right hand. No hands raised. All that wants to draw away a party from the Church after them let 
them do it if they can, but they will not prosper. 

I now wish to speak of the organization of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints; 
Sidney Rigdon and Amasa Lyman were Counsellors to Joseph. I ask whare is Joseph? He is gone 
beyound the vail, and for them to act in their office as his Councillors they must go beyond the 
veil whare he is. 

Their has been much said about President Rigdon being president of the Church leading the 
People, being the head, &c. If the People want President Rigdon to lead them, they may have 
him. But I say unto you that the quorum of The Twelve have the keys of the kingdom of God in 
all the world. They stand next to Joseph and are the Presidency of the Church, and hold the keys 
and would have to ordain any man unto that appointment if one that should be Chosen ie. if one 
was to be chosen. You Cannot appoint any man at our head. We should have to ordain him. You 
Cannot appoint a man at our head. But if you want any other man to lead you, take him, and we 
will go our way to build up the kingdom in all the world. 

Perhaps some think that president Rigdon would not be honord. But if he does right he will not 
act against our Council nor we aginst his but act together. But I repeat again No man can stand at 
our head. The Prophet Joseph has lade the foundation for a great work, and we will build upon it. 

Do you want a Patriarch for the whole Church? It would have been the right of Samuel Smith il 


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he had lived, but he is dead. William is left and John Smith. It is their right. Do you want a 
trustee in trust? If so look at a bishop. It is their place to attend to temporal matters. They never 
yet have acted in their Station. 

Elder S. Rigdon Claims to be a spokesman to Joseph. Vary well he is. But can he now act in that 
office? If he wants now to be a spokesman to the prophet, he must go [to] the other side of the 
veil for the Prophet is there. But Elder Rigdon is here. Why will Elder Rigdon be a fool? 

Let those who holds the keys of the Kingdom of God build it up in all the world. If their is a 
spokesman if he is a king and Priest let him go and build up a kingdom. This is his right, and it is 
the right of many here. But who is the head? The Twelve. If one Thousand rise up and say they 
have the Prophets Joseph shoes I know they are impostures. If you know how the Church is 
organized I wish to ask a question. Now If you want Rigdon Lyman or Law to lead you or any 
body els, you may have them. But I tel you in the name of the Lord, that no man Can put another 
between the Twelve and the Prophet Joseph. Why? Because Joseph was their file leader and he 
has Committed into there hands the keys of the kingdom for all the world. Dont put a thread 
between the Priesthood and God. I will ask who has stood next to Joseph and Hiram? I have and 
I will stand next to him. We have a head, and that head is the Twelve and we can begin to see 
the neccessity of the Apostleship. I will now Close and give way for my brethren. 

Elder A Lyman arose and said, I will say a few words. I am satisfyed with the open fra nk manner 
that Elder Young has addressed this assembly. I ownly take exceptions to my name being 
associated with Wm. Law, Elder Young asks Pardon. It is granted. 

I believe & their is no power or officer or means wanted to Carry on the work but what is in the 
Twelve. The right has been presented by Elder Young and I will back him up. President Young 
has stood next to the Prophet Joseph with the Twelve and I have stood next to them and I will 
still stand next to them. We have a head here. What is that head? The quorum of the Twelve. We 
now see the necessity of the Apostleship. 

I might rise up as well as any other man to ask for the head but I could not do it without 
endangering my salvation. But I will stand unto the Twelve the same as I did to Joseph either on 
one side or the other but not before them. 

President Rigdon called upon W W. Phelps to speak in his behalf as he could not speak. Phelps 
arose and said, he believed their had been enough said to Prepare the minds of the People to act. I 
have seen the people submit with defference to the Authority of the Church. I have seen the 
People take their lives in their hand and gather subjects for the kingdom of God. I have seen them 
prepare for war and ready to pour out their hearts Blood, and I am happy to see the same 
disposition manifest here to day as was when Joseph and Hiram Smith was brought dead 
murdered to this City. Then you submitted to the Law and to God and I see the same thing to day. 
You are ready to submit to the Authority of God. The Twelve are Chosen to rise up and bear the 
Church off triumphant. 


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I have feelings about this esspecially for president Rigdon. Their is a quorum that the 12 belong 
to. Br Rigdon was brought to the same quorum and received in part the blessings. 

Joseph has gone but he has not left us comfortless, for he will administer unto us. I will bear this 
testimony. In 2 nights after he was slain he came to me (and I thought their was a large building 
stood on wheels, and he said tell the drivers to drive on. I asked if the building was on wheels. 
Yes. So we drove all round the hills and valleys and finally over the river into Iowa. I told him 
Devil Creek was before us. I dont Care said he for Devil Creek. Drive over it and we did so.) 

Their is a combination in Nauvoo to destroy all that Stand for Joseph. But let us go ahead and 
build up the Temple and you will then be endowed. If you want to do right uphold the Twelve. If 
they die I am willing to die with them. But do your duty and you will be endowed. I will sustain 
the Twelve. Joseph and Hiram are removed whare they can convets with the Gods beyound the 
reach of Powder and ball. 

P. P. Pratt arose and said if their was wicked men in this City that was so bad it was because we 
supported them. Stop dealing with them and they will go away. Will I support them? No. I am 
willing to do good to all men esspecially to the household of faith Mobs and wicked men will 
scease when you scease to support them. I would rather die a natural death than to employ a 
wicked doctor to kill me. 

President Young arose and said their is more business than we can do this afternoon but we can 
place ourselves in a situation to continue the business without calling the whole Church. I dont 
want you to abide my Council alone but act for yourselves. If you want Sidney Rigdon to lead 
you, vote for him. But if you dont intend to follow him, and support him as you did Joseph, and I 
would say the same for the Twelve dont make a convenant to support them unless you intend to 
abide by their Council. 

But we want to know if this people will support the Priesthood. If you build the house you will 
get the endowment. If we do our best and cannot build the house we will go into the wilderness 
and get it. Will you take our council? The first is do you want President Rigdon to be the head or 
do the Saints want the Twelve to Stand as the head, the first Presidency of the church and at the 
head of this Kingdom in all the world, Stand next to Joseph, walk up into their Calling, hold the 
Keys of this Kingdom? All that are in favor of this in all the congregation of the Saints manifest 
it by holding up the right hand. Their was [a] sea of hands a universal vote. A contrary vote was 
Called and not a hand was raised in all the congregation. Let President Rigdon go and raise up a 
mighty kingdom. 

Our feelings are to let Marsh stand as the President of this Stake. Joseph has loved this People 
unto death and Hiram has loved Joseph and this People unto death. If The Twelve had been here 
I would not have seen him given up. He should not have been given up. He was in your midst, 
But you did not know him. He has been taken away for the People are not worthy of him. 


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But let not men think that the kingdom of God is rent from you. It is not. If we were all dead a 
High Priest would rise up and with the keys of the Kingdom build up the kingdom. 

Let men go to a healthy Country and get a foot hold, so as to be sustained in the midst of our 
persecution. 

The Saints will still be tithed untill the temple is done. All that is in favor of being tithed untill 
the temple is finished make it manifest with the usual sign. It was a universal vote. Would it be 
the feelings of the people to support the Twelve in all the world in their missions? It was a 
universal vote. Will the People let the Twelve regulate the financial Concerns of the Church? A 
universal vote. 

The Patriarchal Priesthood belongs to the Smith family. If Samuel had lived it would have been 
his right. But as it is will the people leave the matter the Twelve? It was A universal vote. 

Do you want to sustain President Rigdon to stand in his place to council with us and we with him 
and the Same Br A Lyman? A universal vote. 

Resolved that the Twelve dictate the affairs of the Temple committies and other affairs. 

Meeting Closed by Prayer by P. P. Pratt. 

Aug 9th I spent part of the day in writing. In the afternoon I attended a Council. It is gloomy 
times in Nauvoo as the Prophet and Patriarch is gone and their appears to be but little ambition to 
do any thing only they are to work vary busy on the Temple. We appoint two trustees in trust for 
the Church viz. Geo Miller & N K Whitney. 

10th I spent the fore part of the day diging potatoes and in the afternoon I walked with Mrs 
Woodruff to Br Smoots. 

1 1th Sunday I met with the Saints, in the general congregation. I opened the meeting by Prayer, 
and L Wight Preached in the fore part of the day and in the afternoon I met with the twelve for 
prayer. * Had a good time. 

12th /Mondayj 10 oclock AM. Council of the Twelve their being Present B. Young, H C Kimball 
P. P. Pratt, O Pratt, W. Richards, W. Woodruff, J. Taylor & G. A. Smith. 

Voted that Amasa Lyman is one of the Apostles. Voted that the estate of Joseph Smith settle its 
own depts and the Church have nothing to do with it. 

Voted to organize the Continant of America into districts and appoint High Priest to Preside over 
each district. 

Voted that B Young H. C. Kimball and W Richards district the Continant of America and 
appoint Presidents over the several districts. 1 oclock [P]M. Adjourned 1 1/2 hours. 


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3 oclock Met according to adjournment. 

Moved by H. C. Kimball that Elder W. Woodruff take a mission to England and Preside over the 
Church and Printing esstablishment in England, Ireland, Scotland & the ajacent Islands and 
Continant. Carried. 

Voted that the general Superintendance direction and control of the emigration in England to be 
at the disposal of Brigham Young President of the quorum of the Twelve. 

W Richards Clerk B Young President 

13th Elder O. Hyde returned home to Nauvoo to day. I rode in company with Mrs Woodruff to 
sister Browns. 

14th I met in Council with the Twelve, Nauvoo House and Temple Commities and the Temple 
Stone Cutters, in order to create a unity of feelings, and action and an equality of pay &c. A good 
feeling was manifest. 

15th I am settelling up all my accounts and paying all that I owe so I may be prepared to take a 
mission to england. Elizabeth Frazier Commenced work at my house this day. 

I met in Council with the Twelve () in the fore part of the day. They resolved to bear of the 
Kingdom of God in all the world, in truth, honesty virtue, and Holiness, & set their faces as a 
flint against evry species of wickedness, vice and dishonesty, in all its forms. 

I met with the quorum in the afternoon for Prayer, to Pray for the Sick. Mrs Woodruff was 
with me. (Geo M) (Mrs M) Br and Sister Miller was Present. Was Prayed for as Sister Miller was 
quite out of health. 

16th Walked to the Temple with H C Kimball. I saw two of the Caps finished with a roans face 
with two trumpets over his head. 

17th :(■ 5 I wrote five letters to the following Persons viz Smith Tuttle, M. Holmes, L Seamman, 
Freedom and Shuah Molton, and Sister Jennan. I accompanied the Twelve to the Temple and we 
went onto the top of its walls & viewed the Country. Encouraged the workman. I had some 
council from Elder Young concerning the affairs of the kingdom my mishion &c. 

18th ? Sunday I met a vast congregation of the Saints at the grove to hear a discourse from 
President Young upon the present excitement that is through Nauvoo in consequence of unwise 
teaching by some that are trying to draw away a party after them. The following is a synopsis of 
the discourse: 

President Young arose and said that he had many things to speak of. It was my mind in the first 
place that we should have suitable time to meditate upon all matters and weigh them, even evry 
subject wharein we felt interested. When the question was asked me if they Should continue to 


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Baptise for the dead, I said I had no council to give upon that subject at that time but should think 
it not best to attend to it at that time. 

I have learned some things I did not know when I came home. I discover a disposition in the 
sheep to scatter abroad now the shepherd is taken away. I do not say that it will never be right for 
this people to go from here or scatter abroad but let them wait untill the time comes & untill they 
get Council to do so. 

The report has gone forth through the city that the Twelve has a secret understanding with those 
men who are going away to take a company with them, that they shall take all they can but the 
Twelve will blow it up in public but privately wish it to go on. But if it was the last words I had 
to say before going into the Eternal world I would swear by the Holy Trinity that it was utterly 
fals and not a word of truth in it. 

Their is no man [with] any right to lead away one soul out of this city by the consent of the 
Twelve, except Lyman Wight and Geo Miller had the privilege of taking the Pine Company 
whare they pleased. But not any other soul has the consent of the Twelve to go with them. Their 
is no man [who has] any liberty to lead away people into the wilderness from this Church or to 
lead them any whare els not by the consent of the Twelve or the Church except the case above 
named. And I tel you in the name of Jesus Christ, that if Lyman Wight & Geo Miller take a 
course contrary to our Council, and will not act in consert with us but take a course against us 
they will be damned and go to destruction. And if men will not stop striving to be great and 
exhalted and lead away parties from us and strive to weaken our hands they will fall and not rise 
again, and I will destroy their influence in this church with the help of God and my brethren. 

I wish you to distinctly to understand that the Council of the Twelve is for evry family that does 
not belong to the Pine Company to stay here in Nauvoo, and build up the Temple & get your 
endowment. Dont scatter. United we stand divided we fall. It has been whispered about that all 
that go into the wilderness with Wight and Miller will get their endowment. But they Cannot give 
an endowment in the wilderness. If we do not Carry out the plan Joseph has laid and the pattern 
he has given for us to work by we cannot get any further endowment. I want it to sink deep into 
your heart that you may remember it. 

I repeat it: Let me reason with you. If you stir up the flame of dissent will you get an endowment? 
No. You get a party to run here and another there, and divide our strength and weaken our hands 
and we will be left and our enemies will flock around us and destroy us. In that case you will not 
get your endowment but will sink and not rise go to hell and not to the bosom of Abraham. 

Do the people leave here because they are afraid? What are you Cowards? Do you fear those that 
have power to kill the body and have no other power more than him that has power to cast both 
Soul and body in hell? If you leave this place for fear of the mob before God tells you to go you 
will have no place of rest but you will flee from place to place and go like the jews untill God 
raises up some other people to redeem you for if the devil scares you from this place he will scare 
you from all other places. Let no man go from this place but the pine Country brethren. But stay 


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here. Sow plant build, put your plow share into the prairies. One plow share will do more to drive 
off the mob than two guns. Let us stay here with the bones of Joseph and Hiram Samuel Carloss 
and father Smith. 

Joseph has said if I am slain in battle or fall any way I want my body laid in Nauvoo. I had rather 
have the dead body of the prophet than some men who are alive, and I should rather have the 
Clothes of the prophet stuffed with straw for President than any man whose name is now before 
the nation for a Candidate for he would not do so much harm. 

We want to build the Temple in this place if we have to build it as the Jews built the walls of the 
Temple in Jerrusalem with a sword in one hand and the trowell in the other. How easily men are 
scared. This Child was never frightend yet and I know of other men who are not. 

Do you suppose the mouth of God is Closed to be opened no more unto us? If this was the Case I 
would not give the ashes of arie straw for the salvation of the Church. If God has Ceased to speak 
By the Holy Ghost or revelation their is no salvation but this is not the Case. 

Their seines to be a disposition by many to leave Nauvoo & go into the wilderness, or some 
whare els. But what if we should go into the wilderness and we should ask God to give us an 
endowment, and he should ask if we were driven from Nauvoo and who drove you? The devel 
drove us, would be the answer. Well he might say did you not know that I had power over the 
devil? Yes but one Said that I would not give a Jack knife for all Nauvoo and another Said I 
would not give a pair of mules for the best fann in Hancock co and I was afraid would the Lord 
give an endowment to a people that would be fritened away from duty. Those that are wishing to 
lead away parties contrary to Council I would not wish them damned worse than to have a 
company after their own liking for they will soon quarrel among themselves. 

And if we should go to the wilderness and ask the Lord to give us an endowment He might ask 
us saying did I not give you rock in Nauvoo to build the temple with? Yes. Did I not through my 
providence furnish men to quiry & cut the stone & prepare them for the building? Yes. Did I not 
give you means to build the Temple there? Yes. Vary well had you have died in Nauvoo on the 
walls of the Temple or in your fields I would have taken you to glory and raised up men to 
officiate for you and you would have got the highest glory. Did you make a sacrafice by tithing? 
No. Well I dont wonder you did not believe I had power over the devil. Such may go away. But I 
want to have the faithful stay here to settle the city. 

We shall require the 10th of all your property for the tithing for the building of the Temples the 
poor and for the Priesthood. I want my support and living by the Church hereafter so that I can 
give my whole time to the business of the Church. I have always supported myself heretofore in 
all my travels and labours. While in England one year, we circulated 60,000 tracts upon our 
doctrin. This ought to be done in all the world. 

The testitor has always lived untill now, but he has now sealed his testimony with his blood and 
his testiment should now be put in force. While the testator lived it was all in his hands but now 


Page278 




he is dead. Their is no remission of Sins without the Sheding of Blood. You will soon wake up 
and know things as they are. Their has been a great dept paid. Their will be no need of more 
Blood of the Saints being Shed at present. By and by you will understand and see that all is right. 
WO, WO, WO, unto all who have shed the blood of the Saints and the Lords Anointed. It must 
needs be that offences come but wo unto that man through whome they come. 

To those that want to go away from this place I would say wait untill the time Comes. I will give 
you the key. North and South America is Zion and as soon as the temple is done and you get your 
endowment you can go and build up stakes but dont be in haste. Wait untill the Lord says go. 

If you have the spirit of God you can discover right from wrong. When all is right with the 
priesthood A man is rises up and speaks in the spirit of God and just right. All will say Amen. 

But when a man rises up and talks as smooth as oil if he is not right their will be many queries 
about it. It will not satisfy the body. I give this as a key. You may go all over North and South 
America & build up stakes when the time comes. The continant of America must be organized 
into districts and Presiding elders appointed over each district. The time has come when all 
things must be set in order. I have had these things upon my mind a long time. 

The time has come now for bickerings to scease. Their must be a strict order of things, and we 
are no longer bound to harbor black legs, Countcrfieters, boges makers. We know all about them. 

They have been in our midst long enough. I advise all the Saints to have no dealing with such 
men. Let them alone. The time has come that they should be wiped out of our midst. Let those 
men alone. Let the ungodly dealers alone. 

And as to the doctors who are in our midst who are our enemies I would say let them alone, for I 
have no boubt but that three to one who have died in this place had a doctor and I would say wo 
unto ye Lawyers for their whole Study is to put down truth and put a lie in its stead. I want the 
Lawyers to know that we have common sens. They want to make you believe that when you spell 
Baker it means Cider or whiskey. Now let the Lawyers and doctors alone and leave all bitterness 
and evil speaking alone and you will build the Temple and get an endowment. All ye Lawyiers 
go away and let us alone, and when we want you and we get full of the devil we will send for 
you. We may then have a more convenient season but go thy way for this time, and I want to say 
to all Saints do not harbor black legs counterfeiters, and bogas makers. Wipe them away. It is 
time to carry out the design of our prophet. Do scease to employ doctors Lawyers & Merchants 
who will empty your purs and then mob you. Store your grain in Nauvoo for you will want it 
here, to eat while you are bilding the Temple. I want to say to the hands upon the Temple be 
united and I want to say to the committee dont turn away any person because he is an Englishman 
Scotchman Irishman or any other nation, but employ evry man you can and build the temple and 
your homes. I had rather pay out evry sent I have to build up this place and get an endowment If I 
was driven the next minute, without any thing to take with me. 

As to the doctors let them go. I can prove that a doctor in this place doctored a woman that was 
in the family way and did not know it untill she was deliverd, and both woman and Child died, 


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and if you will employ them you will all die, but the time has come when you need no longer to 
support them. 

Their is a distinction between the law of the Land and the law of the Church. You have the 
privilege of keeping all shops that does not come in contack with the Law of the state county or 
city. So I will evade the law says the dealer and give away whiskey and sell a little tobaco or 
sumthing & charge enough for both. But the law of the Church will reach such men if they are 
members for they will be cut off. 

I had a dream which I will here relate. I saw a fruit tree, & I went into the tree in search of fruit. I 
soon discoverd that some of the main branches on top going from the main body was dead. It 
seemed necessary to cut off the dead branches in order to save the tree. So I told some person to 
help me cut them off & they steped on to a large green limb. They were afraid it would break, so 
I put my sholder under it & held it up while he cut off the dead branches. It cracked the green 
limb but it did not break. After we cut of the dry limbs the wounds healed up and the tree grew 
finely.) Now let us cut of the dead branches of the Church that good fruit may grow and the voice 
will soon be herd Go and build Zion and the great Temple of the Lord. 

A word unto the Seventies. They will be organized into their different quorums and a Presidency 
of seven men will be chosen out of the first seventy to preside over each quorum. Now as you 
have been warned let evry man warn his Neighbor. 

The Saints assembled in the afternoon and was addressed by Elder H. C. Kimball & followed by 
President Young. I did not attend myself and hence did not take notes but they had an interesting 
time. They warned the Lawyers and Doctors of the iniquity and Preached righteousness to the 
Saints. 

I spent the afternoon at home writing. And in the evening in company with Mrs Woodruff I rode 
out to Br John Benbow and spent the night. Had some trouble getting there but had a good visit 
with them. We came to the Conclusion to leave our ownly son named Wilford Olsen with Br and 
Sister Benbow while we should take our mission to England. 

19th We took the Parting hand with Br Benbow and Wilford, and returned home to Nauvoo. 
Sister Benbow accompanied us. Sister Ells and sister Brown was sewing for Mrs Woodruff. I met 
in council with the quorum of the (Twelve). They conversed some concerning the rout we should 
take. It was thought to be the healthyest to take the northern route. 

Elder Dunham was appointed to hold a Council with some visiting brethren concerning some 
temporal business. 

A letter was read directed to Dr Richards and some dreams rehearsed one of which I told as 
follows: I met with Br Joseph Smith in the Congregation of the Saints. He had his old Hebrew 
and Jerman Bible, and preached to the Saints. B[ut] he seemed to be to thronged by the people 
and he rose up lifted up a curtain and passed into another room where the people could not distirb 


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him and there he was going to teach the people. 

20th I spent the day at home writing. 

21st I met in Council with the Twelve by the request of Elder Lyman Wight as he wished some 
council. But he was sick and could not attend so the council dispersed. 

In the afternoon Elders B. Young H. C. Kimball, W. Richards and J. Taylor each in company 
with his Lady except sister Young spent a portion of the afternoon at my house on a visit, and 
took supper with me. I estem it a favor to have the company of any of the Twelve. It begins to be 
sickly in Nauvoo some. I am almost daily called upon to visit the sick. 

22d I spent the fore part of the day setling accounts and the latter part of the day writing. 

23d * Mrs Woodruff and myself visited Br and sister Stodard and Br and Sister Foster and 
obtained our miniatures by the ingennuety of Br Foster at the apparatus of his Darroutype. We 
both obtained a good likeness, and in the evening Elders called upon me and gave me a blessing. 
The following is from the hand of Elder B Young: 

I hereby certify that Elder Wilford Woodruff has recieved a mission by order of the quorum of 
the Twelve to England to preside over the churches in that Land, and I feel to bless him in the 
name of the Lord with all belonging to or dwelling beneath his roof at this time consisting of his 
wife and Children and sister Mary Arey who is assisting them to get on their Journey. <[—]•> 

B Young 

23d * (I mef) with the quorum of the Twelve in council, a little time or some of them. I visited 
Emma Smith the widow of the prophet. She let me have a peace of oak for a Staff * out of the 

II Coffin of the Prophet Joseph who was inhumanly martered in Carthage 111 in company with 
his brother Hiram. Emma also let me have a Pair of gloves composed of white cotton and Mrs 
Woodruff a cotton hankerchief both of which the Prophet wore while living. 

We called upon Sister Mary Smith widow of Hiram Smith the Patriarch. She gave us some hair 
from the head of Joseph Smith, Hiram Smith, Samuel Smith, & Don Carloss Smith, all brothers 
of the same Parents. I also obtained some hair of the quorum of the Twelve Apostles in the 
Church of Jesus Christ of the Latter Day Saints. My object was in putting a portion of each in the 
top of my staff as a relick of those noble men, master spirits of the nineteenth centaury, to hand 
down to my posterity, to deposit in the most Holy and Sacred place in the Holy temple of GOD, 
on the consecrated Hill of Zion. 

I next visited Mother Lucy Smith, the mother of those noble men even the Lords anointed, whose 
names were Joseph, Hiram, Samuel and Don Carloss, and the wife of Joseph Smith sen. the first 
Patriarch of the last dispensation. All those men fell directly or indirectly as matters for the cause 
of truth and of God, Joseph and Hiram being shot in Cold Blood. 


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The Old Mother and Prophetess felt most heart broaken at the loss of her Children and the 
wicked and Cruel treatment she had recieved from the hands of the gentile world. She begged a 
blessing at my hands. I lade my hands upon her head and proclaimed the following by the Spirit 
of God. 

The following blessing was proclaimed upon the head of Mother Lucy Smith (the Mother of the 
Prophet seer and Revelator Joseph and his brethren) on the 23d day of August 1844 under the 
hands of Elder Wilford Woodruff of the quorum of the Twelve: 


Beloved Mother in Israel according to your request I lay my hands upon your head, in the name 
of Jesus Christ of Nazareth and by virtue of the Holy Priesthood and the |/ | \ of the kingdom of 
God to bestow a blessing upon you for thou art worthy of all blessings. 

As I lade my hands upon thy husband Joseph Smith sen. the Patriarch of the Church by his 
request to bless him as he lay upon his bed like Jacob of old ready to gather up his feet and sleep 
with his fathers, and I about to take my departure over the sea to visit foreign nations, which was 
the last time we ever met on earth in like manner do I essteem it a blessing and a privilege to lay 
my hands upon your head, in your decline of life to leave with you my parting blessing as I am 
again Called to bid farewell to my native Country and visit foreign Climes to bear record of the 
word of God. 

We may never meet again on earth. But I thank my God that I have this privilege of blessing thee, 
for my heart is full of blessings for thee for thou art the greatest Mother in Israel. The sons thou 
hast bourn and Cherished are the most noble spirits that ever graced humanity or tabernacled in 
flesh. Their work shall be had in honorable remembrance through all generations of men. Though 
counted among transgressors, they like the Messiah have shed their blood for the sins of the 
people, and freely offered their lives and sealed their testimony. 

Thou hast lived and stood to see the fall of thy sons by the rage of gentile hands. And like an 
impenatrible rock in the midst of the mighty deep thou hast remained unmoved untill God has 
given thee [the] desires of thy heart in seeing the keys of the Kingdom of God held in the hands 
of thy Posterity so planted in the earth that they shall never be taken from it untill he reigns 
whose right it is to reign. 

Let thy heart be Comforted in the midst of thy sorrow, for thou shalt be had in honorable 
remember-ance forever in the Congregations of the righteous. Thou shalt be remembered in thy 
wants during the remainder of thy day. And when thou art called to depart thou canst lie down in 
peace having seen the salvation of God, in laying an everlasting foundation for the deliverance 
/of Israel/ through the instrumentality of thy sons. 

I seal upon your head all the blessings of the fulness of the gospel and of the Church of the first 
born, and all those blessings that have been sealed upon you heretofore. If we meet no more on 


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earth we will meet in the morn of the first resurrection whare you shall recieve thrones, powers, a 
dominion and kingdom, in Connexion with thy husband in his high exhaltation in the linage of 
his fathers. I seal all these blessings upon your head in the name of Jesus Christ and by virtue of 
the Holy Priesthood, Amen. 

24th (12) 1 met in Council with the Twelve and the Temple and Nauvoo House Committies. A 
variety of Subjects was Conversed upon. Among others measures were entered into to hasten the 
Temple as speady as possible, to Council young men from abroad to come in and bring money 
and means to spend for that purpose, ft was thought best for the Saints to go north into the Colder 
Country to build a branch. It was thought best for Br Wight to go north with his Company and 
not South. The quorum of the Twelve blessed as follows: 

A Blessing bestowed upon the head of Elder Wilford Woodruff under the hands of the quorum of 
the Twelve Elder John Taylor being Spokesman. Nauvoo August 24th 1844: Brother Woodruff 
we lay our hands upon your head in the name of Jesus Christ and by the authority of the Holy 
Priesthood to seal upon your head a blessing and set you apart unto the important mission which 
is appointed you of the Lord by the voice of the Twelve to go over the Sea to England, to take 
Charge of the Churches throughout that land. 

And we ask God the Eternal Father in the name of Jesus Christ, to bless you with health and 
Strength, open the door befor you and your family that you may have food and rament and money 
and all things necessary to make you comfortable and that the power of God may rest upon you 
in a greater degree than in any mission before. 

We seal upon your head these blessings. You shall be preserved to finish your mission and return 
with your family and meet in the Temple of the Lord and rejoice therein and shout Hosanna. You 
shall have Power and wisdom to accomplish the design of your missions and shall have the 
desire of your heart given you in all things in righteousness before God. 

I settelled with Mr Hiram Kimball and I gave him my due Bill to the amount of [ ]. 

I settled my accounts and business with several individuals. I had Calls from several friend 
during the day and evening. I spent the evening in packing up my trunk and writing. 

25th Sunday I met with the congregation of the Saints in Nauvoo. I was called upon to address 
them inasmuch as I was about to leave them to go on a mission to England I arose and deliverd 
them my farewell address. It was short. The following is a few items which I presented to the 
People: 

Their is a spirit in man and the inspiration of the Almighty giveth it understanding. It is through 
this principle that this congregation is assembled together at this Place. You had understanding of 
the things of God by the spirit of God. And I have now one important declaration to make unto 
you and that is that inasmuch as you will be united in heart mind and action in supporting your 
councillors the authority of the church the Priesthood of God and follow the council given you, 


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as you have endeavord to follow the council of the Prophet while he was living, you will be safe 
and blessed and will Prosper. But if you are divided and reject the council of God you will fall. 
Union and faithfulness is your salvation. 

It is true you have been led by one of the best men that ever has graced humanity, or tabernacled 
in flesh. But he has gone. He has sealed his testimony with his blood. He has loved this people 
unto death. But I would now call upen this people to be united in building upon the foundation 
which The Prophet Joseph has laid. It is true you have been called to suffer much in the cause in 
which you are engaged. But if Judgment begins at the house of God, babylon will not escape. 

And if their is a fire in a green tree a dry tree will not escape the fire. And their is no people more 
prepared for the shok that is Coming on the earth than the latter day Saints, for the object we 
have is to secure blessings beyound the veil in the first resurrection. This we are preparing for. 

Again I would say let not the saints be troubled because they have lost their Prophet, for I would 
ask because the Prophet has sealed his testimony with his Blood & if that destroys the gospel, or 
take away the power of God, is truth anhilated, or has the Priesthood found a burying place? I tell 
you Nay it does not. The testiment is now in force. Therefore my council is to follow the example 
of those who have gone before and be faithful untill death. If you will be united and go to with 
your mights in building that temple you will have power to accomplish it & get an endowment. 

I exhorted them to faithfulness and requested their Prayers, asked forgiveness of any thing that I 
might have done wrong and bade them farewell. 

I was followed by Elder B. Young who made many interesting remarks. Also Elders O Hyde and 
P. P. Pratt testifyed that Joseph the Prophet and Seer had ordained, anointed, and appointed the 
Twelve to lead the Church. Had given them the Keys of the Kingdom of God for that purpose. 

W. W. Phelps and R. Cahoon bore testimony to the same thing, saying that Joseph said unto the 
Twelve upon your sholdiers the kingdom of God must rest in all the world. Now round up your 
sholdiers and bear it. 

Many important things were spoken that I have not time to write. The brethren came forward to 
convey us to Chicago when we were ready. 

When the meeting was Closed, after shaking hand with many friends, and taking many letters to 
convey to England, I returned to my family. All our children were at home. Br & Sister Benbow 
was present. 

26th I went to the River in Company with Mrs Woodruff to be baptized for some of our dead 
friends. I was baptized for five of my friends under the hands of G. A. Smith, & confirmed under 
the hands of Elder Richards. Their names were Cyrus Thompson, Sylva Thompson Hyram 
Barber Arena Hart, Electa Woodruff. 

Phebe W. Woodruff was baptized for five of her friends under the hands of W. W. & confirmed 
by W. Richards. Olive Libby, Sarah Pierce, Ezra Carter, Sophia Carter, Rachael Smith. Note(10) 


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W. Woodruff baptised & confirmed by G.A.S. on the 26th of Aug. for: Asahel Hart, wife, Asahel 
Hart, Joseph Hart, Sophrona Hart, Adna Hart, Eunice Hart, Robt. Mason, Erastus Hart, Milla 
Woodruff, Hellan Woodruff, Henry Woodruff, Laura Hoskins, Marietta Hoskins, Wakerman 
Standley. 

27th 5 This was an exeeding busy and laborious day with me. It was the last day that I or my 
family shall spend in Nauvoo for many days. I have left my family and friends almost yearly to 
go on missions in the vineyard of the Lord, for the last ten years of my life, but have never 
attempted to take my family with me before for the purpose of accompaning me on a mission. 

But as I am now about to leave my own country to again visit foreign climes to preach the gospel 
of Jesus Christ & take care of the Churches which will probably be a long mission, I conclude it 
best to take my family with me according to the Council of the Twelve. 

So this day is spent settleing accounts taking inventories of Goods and Chatels left, packing up 
goods, recieving letters, biding friends farewell blessing the Saints, which continued untill 
midnight. 

* At 12 oclok at night in company with Mrs Woodruff, Br A. O. Smoot, Sisters Smoot, and 
Hannah Ells, we walked to the Temple of the Lord in Nauvoo, and as we approached it we lifted 
up our eyes and beheld the greatness grandure and glory that presented itself to our view in a 
conspicuous manner. While she was coverd with the silver rays of the Queen of the night who 
was pouring the whole strength of the brighness of her glory upon her it presented an imposing, 
grand, and sublime senery to the beholder. 

After gazing a few moments upon her magnus walls, and examining her capitols which were 
Completed, standing on the ground, we all as of one accord assended the laders unto the top of 
the walls. Several of the policee and friends followed our example, among which was Gen C. C. 
Rich and Elder Godard. We repaired to the South west comor of the Temple and their in 
company with Mrs Woodruff & the above named brethren and sisters, we bowed our knees upon 
the top corner stone which was prepaired to recieve its Capitol, And their with up lifted hands 
towards heaven, I called upon the God of Abraham, Isaac, Jacob and Joseph by Prayer and 
supplication to except the gratitude of our hearts for his mercies and blessings unto us in 
preserving our lives giving us power to build the Temple thus far. Prayed that the Saints might 
have power to finish the Temple according to the Patern given, and accepted at their hands, that 
the Saints might recieve their endowment, and be prepared to plant the work of God in all the 
world. 

I asked my heavenly father in the name of Jesus Christ and by virtue of the Holy Priesthood and 
the Keys of the kingdom of God that he would spedily avenge the blood of Joseph the Prophet 
Seer and Revelator, and Hiram the Patriarch, which had been shed by the hands of the American 
gentile nation, upon all the heads of the Nation and State that have aided, abeted or perpetrated 
the horid deed, of sheding the blood of those righteous men even the Lords anointed. 


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I prayed that God would preserve our lives and enabled us to Fill our mission in righteousness 
and be enabled to again return to this land and tread the courts of the Lords house in peace and 
recieve blessings at his hand. And that a double portion of the spirit of Josephs God might rest 
upon President Brigham Young and upon the quorum of the Twelve in connexion with him, that 
they may have power to bear off the keys of the kingdom of God in all the world, in 
righteousness and truth according to the power of God. And that the work of the ministry, and 
Power of the Priesthood, may rest upon all the quorums of the Church and Elders of Israel. 

I dedicated myself my family, and all apper-taining unto me, unto God committing my all into his 
hands for the mission Praying for his blessing to rest upon me through the mission appointed 
unto me in the name of Jesus Christ Amen. 

After Prayers we again desended to the ground returned to our homes with Joy and peace in our 
hearts. 


A Blessing given under the hands of B. Young 
And H. C. Kimball 


Aug 28th 1844 

Upon the head of Phoebe W. Woodruff 


Beloved Sister in the name of the Lord we bless you as you are about to take you departure over 
the sea in company with your husband where he is going to preach the Gospel of Jesus Christ. 
You shall be blest on your mission in common with your husband & thou shall be the means of 
doing much good for you shall have the desires of your heart in all things. 

Your life & health shall be precious in the eyes of the Lord and in the hour of distress & trouble 
thou shalt be preserved by the power of God. Thou shall be satisfied with your mission. Thy life 
shall be prolonged & thou shalt be a comfort to thy husband. Thou must hold him by faith that he 
may be useful through his life. If thou wilt go in /all/ humility thou shalt be preserved to return & 
meet with the Saints in the temple of the Lord & shall rejoice therein & thy children shall be 
preserved until thou shall return & meet with them again. 

Thou art Sealed up unto eternal life & we Seal all these blessings upon thy head & all others 
which thou shall desire in righteouness even so, Amen.Note(l 1) 


Same Day 

A blessing upon the head of Susan Cornelia Woodruff 

Susan Cornelia we lay our hands upon thy head in the name of Jesus Christ & by virtue of the 
holy priesthood we bless you with the blessings of life & health & of Abraham of Isaac & of 


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Jacob. I seal thee against the power of desease. We ask God that thou mayest live & cross the sea 
with thy parents & that the angels may guard thee & we rebuke all weaknesses & fevers & 
afflictions /& that thou may-est/ begin to amend from this hour according to the faith of thy 
parents & shall again return to this land & we seal all these blessing upon this child & seal it up 
to eternal life that it may be prolonged upon the earth to bear off the name of thy Father & 

Mother to future generations with the blessings of peace & prosperity & with a gentle spirit in the 
name of Jesus Christ & [by] virtue of the authority of the holy priesthood even so Amen. 


Request of John P. McEwan that W. Woodruff will write my Father from England. His address: 

Henry McEwan 
No 2 High Riggs 
Edinburgh 

(President over the Edinburgh Conference) 

Nauvoo Aug 28 1844 To all the Saints Elders and Saints in Europe greetings. We send our 
beloved brother Wilford Woodruff to England to take Charge of all the business transactions 
pertaining to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints both spiritual and temporal. We 
wish you to give diligent heed to his Council in all things. 

And as we have not the opportunity of Informing you of what has transpired this Season by letter, 
our beloved brother will make known unto you all things. We wish the brethren to be faithful and 
diligent in keeping all of the Commandments of God and in hearkening to the council of those 
who are sent to Council them. 

Let no man or set of men think they have Power or authority of the Keys of the kingdom above 
the Apostle Wilford Woodruff whom we send unto you to instruct you in the things pertaining to 
life and salvation; Though our prophet be slain for the word of God and the testimony of Jesus, 
yet the keys of the Kingdom remain in the Church and the heavens are not closed. Neither is the 
mouth of the Almighty closed up sealed up that he cannot speak. The God of Israel will 
communicate to his disciples from time to time all things necessary for the building up of his 
kingdom upon the earth untill Israel is gatherd, yea even all the blood of Abraham Scattered over 
all the earth, Zion established, Jerrusalem rebuilt, and the whole earth be filled with the glory and 
knowledge of God. 

We wish all the Saints in England to continue their gathering as usual to the land of America and 
they may have the Privilege of appointing a committee to visit the land of America to prepare a 
location for a settlement of the brethren from Europe according to their desire under the direction 
and Council of Elder Wilford Woodruff. 

And further we would say unto all the Saints in all the world that may be visited by Elder 
Wilford Woodruff that inasmuch as they will harken unto his Council they shall be blessed. 


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Inasmuch as they will render him any assistance in his mission they will be doing the will of God 
and shall not loose their reward. And we desire that all Saints may use their efforts to sustain him 
in this important mission which he is called to fulfill by their faith, prayers, and brotherly love 
according to the peace of God for he is qualifyed to teach the Saints in the things pertaining to 
the Church and kingdom of God established in these last days. 

Therefore dear brethren we would say in conclusion be humble and faithful and harken 
dilligently unto the council of this our beloved brother in the Lord Elder Wilford Woodruff and 
the blessings of God will attend you in the name of Jesus Christ. Amen. 

Williard Richards Clerk (Brigham Young President of the 

Twelve) 

Aug 28th A vary busy morning packing up goods preparing to start, Recieving blessings, blessing 
People biding friends farewell, which occupied nearly the whole day. At 4 oclok in the evening I 
parted with the quorum of the Twelve at the Temple and started on my Journey again for 
England. Our company Consisted of W. Woodruff Wife and two children Hiram Clark & Wife, 
And Capt. [ ] Jones and wife & three Brethren that came with their teams to Convey us to 

Chicago. We rode to Br Kelloggs & spent the night 15 miles from Nauvoo. 

29th Rode to Laharp & spent the afternoon & held a meeting in the evening with the Saints. They 
gave us $2.15 cts to help us on our Journey. Ispent the night with Elder George Coulson. 

30th Rode to Monmouth and spent the night. 

3 1st Rode through Hendersonsville and spent the night with Mr Robins. 

September 

Sept 1st Sunday Rode to Br Gailords and took breakfast. Fed our horses. Saw Elder Phineas 
Wright on his way to Nauvoo. We rode to Toulon and spent the night with Elder Perry. It was the 
hotest day we had experienced during the season but we had a heavy stonn in the evening. Elder 
G. A. Smith and myself had held a meeting in the Court house in this place once before this 
season on our way east. 

2d Continued our journey. 

3 Rode to Spoon River. Could not cross. Went up the River 2 miles forded and returned to the 
road. Spent about 3 hours in gaining 1 mile. Crossed the low prairie to Providence. Spent the 
night at Cushion's Tavern. 

4th Paid the Bill $3. Rode through Princeton after crossing Beauro near Indiantown. Passed 
Dover and stoped for the night with Br Simpson B. Huffa-ker. He lives in 1 mile off Greenfield. 
He wished to put in 400 bushels of wheat for the Temple. 

5th Rode to Yrick Tavern. Took dinner. Had an interview with Mrs Alney, learned that Win. & 


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Wilson Law had just passed before us. We rode to Mr Kimballs from Maine & spent the night. 

6th Rode across the Prairie. Swamped our horses. Took breakfast at Sommonnauk. Crossed fox 
River above Auroria and passed through the village and stoped for the night at Jones Tavern near 
Napersville. 

7th Rode to Chicago and spent the night at the Br Shaws in a yellow house on the beach of the 
Lake near the Lake house. Mrs Woodruff was about sick. Br Samuel Shaw is the Presiding Elder 
in Chicago. The branch No about 20. Distance from Nauvoo to Chicago 240. 

8th Sunday Mrs Woodruff was quite unwell. I held two meetings with the Saints. Elder T. Nixon 
was present. We had taken his licence during the season for improper conduct. He appeared 
humble and desired to return to the Church. Voluntine Ames was also present. Is trying to be a 
deist, but has hard work of it. 

The Saints had a meeting in the evening. I did not attend. I went on board of the Propellor 
Oswego to go to Oswego on our way east. Mrs Woodruff was quite unwell through the night. We 
had an exeeding high wind and rough Lake though Saturday night Sunday and Sunday night so 
the boats Could not go out. So we lie in port wind bound. 

9th Monday Wind still in the north. Lake rough. We did not leave port but spent the day in 
Chicago. 

10th Left Chicago in the morning. Passed Little Port New Port and arived at Milwakie in the 
morning. 

1 1th Wind still in the north. We went into the river and spent the day and night. 

12th Wind changed from north to west. We left the river at 8 oclok & proceded up the lake. (I 
perused a Book entitled the History of the Welch baptist published in Pittsburg, Professing to 
trace their origin to John the baptist. It contains many interesting items of history, but their is one 
trait in it the same as in evry history published since the days of Christ and the Apostles, (except 
what has been published by the latter Day Saints) ie. they are all alike robed of Apostolic purity 
religion, orders ordinances, Holy Ghost, gifts graces miricles Prophets Revelations. All of one 
accord cry out these things are done away. But they are ownly done away through their unbelief, 
making void the law of God changing the ordinances breaking the everlasting covenant departing 
from the Apostolic order of things.) 

We sailed well through the day and night. Mrs Woodruff made a request which is to be granted 
within three Years <[— ] to have> 2 <[-]>. In the morning we came in sight of the Manatau 
Islands. 

13th Fair breeze. Sail well. Arived at the Manatau Islands at 12 oclok. Spent three hours there. I 
walked over the beach with Mrs Woodruff the Same ground that we walked over after being 
wrecked on the Chesapeak in Sept 1841. It brought the scene fresh to mind. We wrote on some 


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smooth stones Concerning our wreck and our mishion to England our names and dates &c. 

We left the Island at 3 oclok, & Continued our Journey under a fair stiff breeze and a high wind 
in the night. Arived in sight of the Michelamackanack in the morning. 

14th A Cloudy still morning. Left Mishelamac-kanack 8 miles on our left. Passed many fishing 
for trout. We had a plesant time through the day and evening. 

15th Sunday We found ourselves in the morning glideing smoothly through lake Huron. A 
plesent morning and bright sun. We arived in the river St Clair. 

16th A bright pleasant morning. We sail well. Passed through Lake St Clair. Arived at Detroit at 
8 oclok. I had an interview with Elder Peter Van Avery. We paid our Bills to Oswego which was 
$5 dollars each. Spent the night in Detroit. 

17th Left Detroit in the morning. Sail well through the day and evening untill 12 oclk at night a 
strong wind arose. The Lake was rough. The boat rocked badly and in the midst of it opposite the 
Cleveland lighthouse at midnight the cry of fire, fire, fire, was rung through the boat by the watch 
on duty. 

We immediately leaped from our beds in our night Cloths and each one Caught a bucket the best 
he Could. I Caught a bucket about half full of water and run as I was barefoot to the stem of the 
boat looking for the fire while some was runing up stares I leaped into the engine room And saw 
the fire in one Cornor of the stem of the boat. I run over the pile of Coal and dashed my water 
into the fire which was not larger than a half bushel measure. At the same time a bucket of water 
flung by Capt Davis stmck the fire and it was instantly extinguished. 

Their is nothing more terrible or alanning than the cry of fire on board of a ship or steem boat at 
Sea or on any water out of reach of Land. It is far more terrible than a storm or wreck, for when 
fire gets the Control under such circumstances all hope is lost, and persons will plunge into the 
deep to escape its fury. But in this case the fire was out and the alann over in the tenn of a 
minute. 

On my return to the cabin I found one woman flung into convulsions with alarm. Mrs Woodruff 
was holding her in her arms. She did not get over it untill the next day. 

18th The wind arose at 1 oclok in the morning. The Lake was soon vary rough. The boat rocked 
badly untill morning. All were sea sick or Lake Sick which was equally as bad. We put into 
fairport and remained through the day. It is plesant to reach a port after a Stonn. 

Fairport looks as though it was going to desolation, & it is according to Prophecy. The 
inhabitants have long tried to destroy the Latter Day Saints. We left fairport about sundown to 
start for Oswego via the Welland Canal on the Canida Side. Had a good time through the night. 
Distance from Chicago to Fairport 1,000 miles. 


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19th A Pleasant morning. Wind fair. We crossed Lake Erie. Entered the mouth of the Welland 
Canal at 4 oclock to go around the falls into Lake Ontario on the Canida Side. The Canal is 28 
miles long & has 38 locks. We traveled 7 miles & stoped for the night. 

20th We passed through the locks slowly. I spent the day in perusing an interesting work entitled 
"Narrative & recollections of Van Demans Land During a three years Captivity of Stephen S 
Wright together with an account of the battle of Prescot in which he was taken prisioner; his 
imprisonment in Canida; Trial, Condemnation and transportation to Australia. His terrible 
Sufferings in the british Penal Colony of Van Demands and return to the United States, with a 
Copius Appendix embracing facts and documents relating to the Patriot war now first given to 
the Public from the original notes and Papers of Mr Wright and other sourses by Caleb Lyon of 
Lyondale." 

Among other things it gives an account of the execution in Canada of several brave men for 
taking an active part in the Patriot war among which were "Col Von Schoultz, Dorephus Abbey, 
Daniel George of watertown N.Y. And Col Martin Woodruff A Deputy Sheriff of Salina 
Onandagua Co N.Y. Von Schoultz was an Elegant Polish Scholar. His father was a General in 
the Polish army. Fell coverd with wounds beneath the Towers of Warsaw. His son attained to the 
rank of Col under Napolian and has been a residence in America several years. Took part in the 
Patriot war in Canida, being deserted by trators was hung by the british in Canada." The whole 
narative was interesting. 

} I wrote a letter to Br Azmon Woodruff. Gave him an account of my travels and an invitation to 
meet me at father Woodruff, and write me a letter direct to Boston. 

2 1 st A vary high wind. So much so the boats stoped saying they were wind bound. But it is an 
odd thing to be wind bound in the locks of a canal. We traveld about 1 mile to day. 

22d Traveld about 9 miles and came to lake Ontario. We left the canal & entered lake Ontario at 
6 oclok Sunday night. Sail well untill midnight. 

23d A gale arose at midnight. Had a dreadful time. Lake rough. Boat rocked badly. All were sick. 
The lake continued rough through the day. The boat Caught fire again but was soon extinguished. 
We run into the mouth of the Genesee river about sun set having beat all day against wind and 
tide. All glad to make Port again. 

24th Left the mouth of the Gennessee river at 1 oclok in the morning. Had a comfortable time. 

Arived in Port at Oswego at 9 oclok. All much rejoicd to set feet upon land after being Confined 
to the lakes 15 days. Distance from Buffalo to Oswego via Welland Canal 200 mile. 

I mailed the letter to Azmon Woodruff and took Packet Minerva for Syracuse. Fare 75 each 
$1.50. Expenses of living from Detroit to Oswego was $1.32. Arived in Syracuse at 4 oclok in 
the morning. 


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25th Took Packet for Utica. Expenses with Baggage $3.50. Arived in Utica in the evening and 
took Packet for Schenactady. Fare $1.75 $3.50. 

26th Arived in Schenactady in the evening. Took cars and boat for Albany via of Troy. Lost my 
carpet bag in the scrape. Upon on my arival at Albany it seemed as though I should be tom in 
peaces by the carman and Irish runners all pulling and haulling. I spent the night at Holmes 
Temperance House near the rail road landing. Carroans fee 50 cts. Distance from Oswego to 
Albany 200 miles. 

27th Bill $1.50 cts. Two Tickets one to Boston $6, one to Russel $2.96. Took Cars and left 
Albany in the morning. I parted with my family at Russel depo at noon. My family went on to 
Boston And I walked up to Br Vinson Shirtliffs 4 miles from Russel Depo. Distance of the day 
100 miles. I met a welcome reception at Br Shirtliffs. 

28th $4. 1 Parted with Br Shirtliff who went to attend an appointment. I spent the day at his house 
writing in my Journal. A hard frost. 

29th Sunday A severe Storm. I rode in it with Br Palmer to the Crooked river branch through 
West-field. 9 miles. I held a meeting in the evening with the Saints. Had a good time. 9 m. 

30th I took Br Deweys hors & waggon & rode to Simsbury. Called upon Aunt Gossetts and 
dined. 

Found Aunt Cossets vary poorly. I rode to Farmington And spent the night at fathers house. * I 
found Father and mother in good health. This is the second visit I have made them this summer. 
My interview was plesant with them. Distance of the day 30. 

Sept 3 1st I left fathers House. Rode to Avon. Called upon Uncle Thadeus Thompson. He looked 
rather old. I Called upon Aunt Abia Thompson. She greeted me wannly. Wished me God speed; 
She possesses Good and kind feeling. I passed Zera Woodford’s & spoke to him. I next Called 
upon cousin Eldad Woodruff. He appeared Glad to see me. He looked natural. I next called upon 
Uncle Titus Woodruff. He was gone. His wife Aunt Iva & his Son Aphek was at home. I spent a 
few moment with them and next called upon Mr Wilson Herd. He was vary feble. Caltha was 
poor. I Called upon Capt Francis Woodruff. He look most ready for the grave. Still he was about. 
I called upon uncle Ozem Woodruff family. He was not at home. Aunt Hanna was well. I saw 
Erastus Woodruff setting in the Stoop of a Store. I Called upon Oliver Tillistons to see Br 
Thompson as he was to work there, But I did not see him. I passed uncle Alson Thompson & saw 
John Woodruff in Canton. 

I passed on to New Hartford. I here called upon an old friend and acquaintance Charles Lyman. 
We formerly had good seasons together in Prayer. He spoke of the Address of his Sister (Mrs 
Mary A. Curtis West Martinsburg New York). She would like to understand our manner of faith. 
I rode to Cole-brook viewed the old mills & house whare father lived, took tea with Johathan 
Stillman & Called upon Mrs Caroline Wolcott. Next upon Mr Leonard Gillet to sell him a peace 


Page292 




of land for Dexster Stillman. Gillet was not at home. I spent the night at Mr Wolcott's. Distance 
of the day 30 m. 


October 

October 2d Tuesday 1st I returned to New Hartford. Called a few moments upon Charles Lyman. 

Rode to Canton. Had an interview with John Woodruff called upon uncle Alson Thompson & 
took dinner with him. And I spent two hours with Br Thompson Woodruff. _[ ■=(: I had not seen him 
before for fourteen years except one evening in Richland N.Y. about seven years since. We were 
both glad to meet. We talked over many old times. He was much worn down. 

1 returned to my fathers House & spent the night in company with uncle Ozem Woodruff. We 
were also glad to meet. O how sweet are the hours spent in the society of my friends who stand 
with me in the same covenant of the gospel. Their is an increase of Interest in the visits I make at 
my fathers house. * 30 m. 

2 3d I rode into Hartford. I made enquiry for Elder Q Sparks. Could not find him. I returned 
home to fathers House & spent the night. * 20 mils. 

3- 4th I spent the day writing at fathers house. Sister Hooker came down & I administered to her 
by the laying on of hands. I wrote a letter to Mr Smith } Tuttle of Fair Haven. I had an interesting 
time through the evening with Father Mother and uncle Ozem Woodruff. 

* I lade my hands upon the head of Uncle Ozem Woodruff And I ordained him unto the office of 
An HIGH PRIEST after the order of Melchisedec. He was much affected with the testimony born 
to his mind at the time of the ordination. I had an interesting time with the family. 

Oct 4 5th * 1844 

I arose in the morning. 

Light was the heavens adorning. 

I spent a plasant hour 

Beneath my fathers bower 

With my friends I bent my knees in prayer. 

I pray for peace to abide forever there. 


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After praying for the last time in the circle of my fathers family I took the Parting hand with 
Father & Mother & Uncle Ozem Woodruff. Left them in good health & spirits & again 
commenced my Journey. 

I called upon Aunt Lydia Hart a few moments. Passed by the Mills house & fann the place of my 
birth & youth; Called upon Aunt Wheelers & her family. All appeared glad to see me. Cousin 
Luther Wheeler informed me that the Address of Levi Els-worth Thompson is Nottaway, St 
Joseph Co, Michigan. Sturgess Prairie is near. 

I rode on to Simsbury & stoped at Aunt Gossetts. She was deranged I lade hands upon her and 
rebuked the Spirit by which she was bound & she immediately seemed to be some better. I took 
the parting hand with the whole family & rode to Elder Ashbel Deweys Little river near 
westfield. 30 miles. 

I retired to rest and had the following dream: I thought their was A large building standing in 
Nauvoo Joining my house. Appeared to be filled with lumber and many men to work in it. I saw 
the foundation of it begin to give way. I run in to warn the people to leave it but it fell with a 
mighty crash while I was in it. I narrowly escaped being killed, but got out without injury. I then 
saw my own dwelling brick house in Nauvoo the foundation of it to give way. I went into that to 
warn my family to leave it but it fell with us in it but I got out & my wife with her child in her 
arms all safe. The interpetation I shall understand before many days. 

& 6th Sunday I Preached to the Saints in the forenoon & Br Sparks in the Afternoon. I visited 
sister Adams in the evening who lade at the point of death. We administered to her by the laying 


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on of hands. I returned to Br A. Deweys and spent the night. } I wrote a letter in the evening. [] 

7th I took cars & rode to Boston. Arived at Br Phelpses at 7 oclock. The Saints had a church 
meeting. I repaired to the Place And the first business that was done after I arived was Elder John 
Hardy resigned his office as presiding Elder, And Joseph Ball appointed in his stead. The 
appointment of Elder Ball was opposed by Elder Phelps, but Phelps was soon bourn down by 
Brannan & Wm. Smith. I saw things were wrong sumwhare. I gave out an appointment to meet 
the Churches on Saturday night. I spent the night with Br Phelps. Distance of the day 100 miles. 

8th I spent the day in Boston. I visited John Hardy And a number of Saints who appeared much 
affected with the improper conduct of several Elders who was travelling through their midst. I 
think I done much good In visiting them. It is a critical time now throughout the eastern 
Churches, And men need wisdom in order to keep things strait. 

I Attended the opening of a long discussion between G. J. Adams & O. Bachellor of the 
Marlbury Chapel. It was a kind of a monied scheme. 

I returned to Br Phelpses and spent the whole night in writing a long } letter to Elder B. Young 
giving an account of the critical state of the Churches in the Eastern cities &c. 

9th } I wrote 2 letters one to Elder M. Holmes & the other to J. C. Little of Peterborough N.H. I 
rode to Salem & held a good meeting with the Saints. Spent the night with Elder N H. Felt 
merchant Tailor Salem. Distance 14 miles. 

10th } * I wrote 4 Letters to Nauvoo one to Dwight Webster. Sent him $10 dollars to pay my 
Taxes /And for sister Eunice/. I sent one Letter to Sister Brown & sent her $2 dollar to pay her 
for her labour in assisting us. I wrote one letter to Br & sister Benbow, & one to Br Dexter 
Stillman, all included in one Directed to Br Webster. 

I ordained 2 priest & confirmed 2 last evening. I sent $ 1 dollar in the letter to Br Benbow for 
Wilford. 

1 1th ^ I wrote a lengthy letter for the Prophet concerning Elder Sidney Rigdon. Bore my 
testimony in the case. I preached to a respectable congregation who gave me a collection of $20 
dollars. } I wrote a small Letter to Elder Young inclosed in a Letter to Br Webster in which I 
spoke my mind. 

12th I rode to Boston. Attended a Church meeting and had the power of God rested upon me. I 
spoke to the Church in great Plainness concerning iniquity in all its forms. Urged the importance 
of building the Temple. I informed the Saints that evry man in the Church from the head to the 
foot if they broke the commandments & law of God would be brought to Justice & I advised all 
to be cautious not to throw themselves to ruin because others do wrong. I was followed by Elder 
Adams. 

? I had Conversation with Br Whitmore. He related A dream to me as follows: He had prayed to 


Page295 




God to let him see Joseph in a dream. And he fell asleep And dreamed that he saw the heavens 
opened and deheld some of the things of eternity. He saw a personage arise out of the earth, and 
An Elder informed him that it was Joseph Smith. Joseph did not speak to him but droped some 
slips of paper on the ground from whence he rose. Br Whirmore picked up one of them & read 
the following words: (Emma is not worthy of me.) He wished to read the others but the person 
with him picked them up & put them in his pocket & did not let him read them. 

At the Close of my meeting Elder Brannan pre-fered a Charge against Elder Hardy for slander. 

So did Elder Adams. The trial comes on Tuesday night. I spent the night with Br Phelps. 

Distance of the day 15 m. 

13th Sunday I met a large congregation of Saints at the [ ] Hall opposite the Boylston Hall. I 

had the spirit & power of God rest upon me & I had a good time. I dined with Br Dam & called 
upon Sister Vote. She gave me $10 & other Sisters $5 to help me on my mission. I walked to 
meeting with Sister Cobb, who inquired about Nauvoo. 

I had an interesting meeting in the afternoon. I enjoyed much of the spirit of God. The Audience 
was still & gave good attention. A Collection was taken up to assist me on my mission And 
about $50 dollars in all was taken including about $15 at Sister Voce. 

I attended the discussion in the evening at Marlboro Chapel between Adams & Bachellor. Adams 
sustained his position much the best. I spent the night at Br Phelps. Sister Phelps had a fine 
daughter born during the night. 

14th :(■ I done up my package of letters to Nauvoo in a rapper & directed it [to] Brigham Young & 
put it into the hands of Elder Wingate Containing $13 dollars in all. I spent the night at Br 
Phelps, And dreamed of being in the midst of rattle snakes. I had power to kill them. A few 
nights previous I saw a monster of a serpent. Tried to kill me but had no power. 

Oct 15th I visited Lowel and held a meeting with the Lowell branch. It was rather a squally time. 
Dificulties appear to be rising in this quarter. Some dissatisfaction. After I closed I was followed 
by Eider Wm. Smith. 

I was visited in the evening by Elders M. Holmes and 2 Hardys from Georgetown. Was glad to 
see them. They spent about one hour with me. I was glad to see them. They returned home. I 
spent the night with Br Libby. 25 miles. 

This evening their is a trial in Boston on the case of Elder John Hardy to try to cut him of saying 
that he has slandered Brannon Adams & Wm. Smith. 

16th I spent the day in Lowell and Preached in the evening. Elder Wm. Smith went to Peterboro. 

I baptized and confirmed two in the evening. (Varanus Libby & Mary Thornton) of Lowell Mass. 
The Church in Lowell gave me $8 dollars to assist me on my mission. I wrote an Acrostic in two 
Albums viz Mary Thorntons & Ann R. Gould. I spent the night with Br Libby. 


Page296 




17th I rode to Peterboro /in company with Govornor John H Steel/. Called upon the presiding 
Elder Jesse C. Little & found Elder Smith } there. 

We held a meeting in the evening. Br Smith preached. We spent the night with Br Little. I wrote 
2 letters one to Mrs Woodruff & one to Hiram Clark of New York. 

1 8th It was A rainy day. I visited & administered to several sick but I spent most of the day in 
reading the first vol of Stephens travels in Egypt, Arabia, Petrea and the Holy Land, and I was 
highly edifyed with it. 

I attended meeting in the evening. Elder Wm. Smith again addressed the assembly. Spoke of the 
rise & progress of the Church, coming forth of the Book of Mormon. The Saints brought forward 
their tithings for the Temple all of which Elder Win. Smith took to the amount of $150 dollars 
for the Temple and $25 or $30 dollars for his own use. We spent the night with Br Bingham 
Bemont. 

19th I parted with Elder Wm. Smith in the morning who went to Lowell. I spent the day with Br 
Little. I read during the day the second vol of Stephens travels in Egypt Arabia & the Holy Land 
&c. And I was exeedingly interested in the same Thinking that perhaps I might follow his 
footsteps over some of the same ground in some of my travels in the earth. It was interesting to 
trace him in his travels through Edom among the Palaces Cut out of the Solid rock and through 
the Holy land, visiting the Holy sepulcher and all places spoken of in the scripture. 

In the evening several friends came from other churches to spend the sabbath with me, among 
which was Br Carlin Mack. His father and mother Smith are own brothers. He is an Elder. I 
preached in the evening to the Church. Had a plesant time. 

20th Sunday A plesant day. I met with a congregation of Saints & sinners & preached in the 
forenoon and afternoon, & had a good time. I met with the saints in the evening & the time was 
taken up mostly by the Church in bearing testimony of the work. I spoke twice during the 
evening. The saints donated about $15 dollars to assist me on my Journey. I spent the night in 
company with Charles A Adams at Br Jonas Livingston. 

21st I left Peterboro in company with Elders C. A. Adams & Stephen Foster & rode to Elder 
Chilon Mack son of Solomon Mack, in Gilsum N.H. 23 miles. 

I preached in the evening at Gilsum. I enjoyed myself well. I spent the night with Mr Solomon 
Mack 72 years of Age Brother to Lucy Smith the Mother of Joseph Smith the Prophet. I spent the 
evening in Conversing with him about the Smith family and the gospel. Wished him to be 
baptized. 

22d * This is the last day set by the Miller-its for the coming of Christ. They have set a number 
of days but this is the last one. I left Gilsom. Parted with father Mack & rode to the old 
homestead of Mother Smith. Saw the place whare she was bom on the side of a high hill & the 


Page297 




brook Ashu[ilet ?]. It is truly a rural place. 

We rode through walpole. Had a good view of west minster in Vermont. Called upon seven 
brethren & preached in the evening in company with Elders Charles A. Adams & Alfred Cordon 
in the school house at Drewsvill. Spent the night at Br Samuel Waldo. Distance of the day 15 
miles. 

23d I Parted with the friends & Elder Adams at Drewsville & rode in company with Elder A. 
Cordon to Peterborough & had an interesting meeting with the Saints. I spent the night with Br 
Livingston. 33 miles. Droped my watch & broke my crystal to atoms as I dreamed. 

24th I Parted with the Saints in Peterborough. Took stage & rode to Nashua. Took cars & rode to 
Boston. Fare from Peterboro to Boston $3. 

I took Cab. Rode to the Post Office. Obtained * * a letter from Phebe at (2) Scarboroug stating 
that the Children were both sick or had been & Phebe vary sick at the Present time. I rode to Br 
Phelps. Read my letters with feelings of interest. Prepared for leaving early in the morning. 

[ Asterisks are Woodruffs .] 

Elder Crosby spent the night with me. There had been a serious time in Boston in some trials in 
my absence. 80 miles. 

25th I purchased a number of articles to take to my family, such as 1 gal oysters, crackers, 
oranges, lemons shugar, &c. Took cars at Boston. Rode to Saeo. Called at Luthers. From thence 
to Scarborough. 

Found my wife & two children with Sister Foss. It was a happy meeting. I found Phebe Amelia 
much better than she had been for she had been sick nigh unto death but had began to recover. 

I walked over to Father Carters & spent a few hours with the family. Father & Fabyan went over 
with me to sister Foss & spent the evening. I spent the night with sister Foss. Fare $3.75. 100 
miles. 

26th } I wrote a letter to Br & Sister Moul-ton & spent the day at sister Foss. Phebe seemed some 
better. 

27th Sunday I spent the day at Sister Foss with my family & Father & Mother Carter. Phebe 
Amelia seemed to gain Strength. 

28th A cold day. Phebe Amelia was better through the day than she had been. Eat harty in the 
evening she was taken with a relaps of the fever & the Bern seemed to almost fill her lungs. She 
had a sick night. 

29th A hard rainy morning. I went after Rhoda Carter to come & assist giving medicine to our 
Child who was vary sick. They commenced in the morning * & it was with the greatest difficulty 
we could get medicine into her or to get it to operate. At last her emeties & injections operated 


Page298 




powerfully & she had the sickest day she ever had in her life. She lay for 6 hours like a dead 
person. She came to in the evening & rested well. 

30th } I went to the beach in the morning got a few small [h?]en clams, come home & eat them. 
Phebe is some better to day but vary feble. We received a paper from Ilus. I wrote him a letter. 

Oct 3 1st 1844 I went to beach in the morning. Dug 2 bushels of clams. Spent the day at Sister 
Foss. Fabyan Carter came in in the evening & brought me a letter from Br Hiram [] Clark in New 
York. 

? In the evening I baptized & confirmed 4 four members of Sister Foss family & also blessed 
them, viz Olive, Ezra, Rhoda, & Phebe. I spent the night with my family at Sister Foss. 6 miles. 

November 

Nov 1st Friday Phebe Amelia is quite Cher-[ful?] this morning. Manifests a spirit of Play. Phebe 
Foss has been unwell for several days. Has had several turns of bleeding at the nose. She bled 
considerable this morning. Was quite poorly. 

/D/ 1 had a peculiar dream last night one that is unutterable & Cannot be written for I cannot 
comprehend it all myself. I was called to hold the keys of the kingdom of God in all the world 
with the quorum of the Twelve & traveld with them over much of the world, & finally traveld 
through many countries alone & when I got through I saw many things I cannot write but in the 
end Br Joseph Smith Assisted me to come into the place whare he was and Pointed out my work, 
portion, & labour. I immediately entered into the duties assigned me. 

I also had another dream. Was in the Presence of Br Joseph Smith. Was conversing about his 
death. Told him I felt bad about it & If I had known he would have been taken away so soon I 
should have conversed more with him & asked him more questions. Said it was not his fault that 
I did not. Speaking of my work & duties said I had better get a dozen to help me. D 

2d Phebe Amelia Appears better to day. We moved over to father Carters. Phebe Foss & Sister 
Foss appear quite unwell. We spent the day at Father Carters. We got the Times & seasons of Oct 
1st & Neighbor Oct 16. The epistle of the Twelve was interesting. 

3rd Sunday I walked to Sisters Foss. I found her & Phebe Foss both sick. Phebe was taken with 
the nose bleed while I was there & bled much. It was thought she bled near two quarts. I was 
there through the day assisting them. Two sisters from the Saco Factories called to enquire about 
some friends in Nauvoo. 

4th Phebe Amelia & Phebe Foss are both much better. Sister Foss is quite sick. I spent most of 
the day at father Carters writing. I let Sister Foss have $5 dollars in money to assist her in her 
sickness. 

5th Sister Foss & her family had a sick day. Phebe Amelia is still on the mend. It is a cold wet 


Page299 




day. 

6th } ^ I wrote 4 Letters, one to father & Mother Woodruff one to Elder Clark one to Elder 
Holmes and one [] to B.Y. As an aditions to our troubles to day Ezra Carter jr. Brought home 

Sarah Elizabeth Foss from Portland quite sick. She had taken cold <during her [ ]>. Was 

threatned with a fever. A bed was prepared for her in the same room with her Mother. She 
appeared puite sick. 

7th Sister Foss & Sarah Elizabeth was quite sick through the day. Elizabeth is somwhat 
dangerous. 

8th Sister Foss & Elizabeth had an exeeding sick day. Mrs Woodruff & myself were with them 
evry moment almost through the day. They both took a course of the Thomsonian Medicine. 
Elizabeth appears to be sinking. Phebe Amelia is gaining slowly. 

9th Mrs Woodruff & myself both feel quite unwell being over the sick so much the day before. 
The sickness of Sister Foss & her family is the Typhus fever of the most malignant kind. I spent a 
part of the day with Sister Foss family. Ira Foss is down to day sick. Went through a course of 
medicine. Sister Foss is some better to day but Elizabeth is vary low. 

Nov 10th Sunday morning } } Phebe & myself both Called upon sister Foss family. We found 
them both vary low. It was thought that Sarah Elizabeth Foss would not get well. I wrote two 
letter one to Ilus F. Carter & one to Freedom & Shuah Moulton giving them an account of the 
sickness of our friends. Br & Sister Scammans was with us through the day. 

I paid Rhoda Scammans $2.50 cts which she lent me the fore part of the summer. In the evening I 
felt quite unwell Mrs Woodruff gave me an Emetie of lobelia. The sickness lasted about 2 
minutes & all was over. I took supper & went to bed & had a comfortable nights rest. 

1 1th This is the election day to cast their votes for President in the State of Maine. Sister Foss & 
family continue about the same vary sick. Phebe spent the day taking Care of them. I walked up 
in the evening to see them & Mrs Woodruff returned with me. } * <Darkness [-] [to be?] 
prevailed. > 

12th Sister Foss & family are some better. Mrs Woodruff went to Saco. 

13th } Sister Foss & Sarah Elizabeth are both better to outward appearance. They both got 
together into one bed & prayed and sung & shouted glory to God &c. This no doubt was caused 
more by weakness of the system than by sound Judgment; for such religious exercises as are 
manifest at times at a camp meeting to be exercised by persons in a low state of fever are not 
beneficial eith[er] to soul or body. 

I sent a paper to Ilus & one to Freedom Moulton Stating that Sister Foss & Sarah Elizabeth was 
better. But in the evening, Sarah Elizabeth was taken wors & began to sink vary fast. They gave 
her medicine but she was much distressed & they thought mortification had taken place. 


Page300 




(Nov 14th Thursday * When the destroyer reigns darkness prevails.) At about daylight I was 
Called upon to go to Sister Foss's for Sarah Elizabeth was dying. Mrs Woodruff and myself went 
up as soon as could, & when we arived at the house we found Sarah Elizabeth apparently dying 
and appeared as though she would not live 10 minutes. Sister Foss & Ira Foss her older son was 
vary sick. The family was taking medicine after the Thompsonian system viz roots & herbs. 

Three doctors were attending upon the family. It was difficult to tell what the fever was that they 
had. It was first called the Typhus fever, but it proved to be vary malignant if not a putrid fever. 
The doctors nurses, & watchers, were nearly all more or less affected with it that were in the 
midst of it. The tongue would turn black & in a low stage would swell. It seemed to be a difficult 
matter to break up the fever after it once seated. 

But to returne to the subject of Elizabeth, Doctor Churchell came from Saco, to see Elizabeth. 
When he saw her he said it was of no use to give her any thing for she would soon go. He gave 
some council Concerning the rest of the sick, & thought preperations had better be made for 
removing the Corps as soon as the breath left the body & not have it remain in the room with the 
rest of the sick. 

And after standing by Sarah Elizabeth Foss for two hours to see the last breath leave the body, 
expecting evry moment would be the last as she breathed shorter and shorter her puls all of a 
treamor. Spots appeared on the surface like mortification. Her eyes were closed, her tongue black 
as a coal & swollen some out of her mouth. I spent an hour preparing a place to lay her out 
moving beds bedsteads &c. 

When all of a sudden things took a turn with her. She opened her eyes. Had her reason well. 
Could talk. Her puls became regular. We ceased all further preperations for laying her out. A 
slight emetic was given her, & injections with a portions of charcoal, to kill mortification. Her 
body was washed all over with Alkilie of salaratus. She vomited black stuff that looked like 
mortification or that it come from the liver. She appeared better through the day. 

Doctors Churchel & George Sewell were both asstonished at her being alive. On their return they 
continued to do what they Could for her. She said she thought she should get well but was 
willing to die and go to rest if it was the will of God. 

Sister Foss was vary Calm but sick. Felt resigned concerning Elizabeth, & vary Calmly gave the 
Children some Council Concerning domestic affairs if she should not live, herself. 

In the evening Mrs Woodruff & myself returned to Fathers Carters & spent the night. During the 
night Sarah Elizabeth had an iminens quantity of black matter come from her which had the 
appearance of the affect of Mortification It appeared difficult to decide whether her revival was a 
revival before death or whether it was a turn of the fever. Some believed she would get well 
while others believed she could not. But time will soon decide. 

I dreamed of being in Nauvoo. Br Kimball <going to> England. Br Webster, <denied the faith>, 


Page301 




my sister Eunice <[left?] in the hands of Elder Young>. 

15 Sarah Elizabeth is alive this morning. Mrs Woodruff has gone up to spend the day with the 
sick. Sister Foss & Ira are also vary sick. It is a dark time. I am surrounded with darkness like 
midnight. The plague or the destroyer is on my right and left hand trying to hedge up my way 
from filling my mission but I trust the Lord will deliver me in some way. 

16th Sister Foss family appears some better to day. Sarah Elizabeth appears some on the mend. 
She may yet live. Mrs Woodruff spent the day with them. 

17th Sunday Sister Foss family are about the same to day. A number of friends Called to see 
them. Luther & Rhoda Scammans & Ezra Carter Jr. was among the number. I spent part of the 
day with them. 

} I mailed two letters to day one to M Holmes stating that I should start on Thursday Nov 2 1 & I 
mailed one letter to Father & mother Woodruff. 

18th I spent most of the day at father Carters. Called at Sister Fosses in the evening. They were 
all on the mend a little. 

19th I had some Thomsonian medicine of George Sewell for which he Charge me <[—]>. I spent 
most of the day at father Carters. Sister Foss & family are still on the mend. 

20th Nov 1844 Took the parting hand for the last time for some years with Father and Mother 
Carter & the family. Left our little girl Phebe Shuah Moulton before we left & inclosed in it a 
portion of the lock of hair of Sarah Emma Woodruff which she sent us. We divided it & returned 
a part. 

Father Carter took us in the wagon to Saco. On the way we stoped to take our farewell of Sister 
Foss & her family who were sick. Sister Foss was better but not able to set up much. Sarah 
Elizabeth was not so well. Her sickness was turning into the Lung fever. Ira was sum better. They 
appeared excited at parting with us. We rode to Saco & spent the night. 

21st After being blockaded with sickness with my children & friends in Scarboro for near a 
month & surrounded by great darkness during the time for it seems as though the destroyer was 
trying to hedge up my way to hender me on my mission, & whare the destroyer is their is 
darkness & sorrow, yet this morning I feel like bursting their bands & going my way. 

I took cars at Saco in company with Mrs Woodruff & our youngest Child Susan Cornelia to start 
on our way for New York & set sail for England. We rode to Haverhill & stoped & rode to 
Georgetown in a waggon with Elder Hardy to Father Holmes & we spent the night with them & 
had an interesting Church meeting with the Saints. I ordained Elder Nathaniel Holmes to the 
office of High Priest & one Elder 1 Priest & one deacon. They contributed $3.50 cts to assist me 
on my Journey. Distance 75 mi. 


Page302 




* } I wrote a letter to Hiram Clark. Fare $6.50 to Boston. 

22d Took cars. Rode to Boston. Stoped at No 8 East Orange street at Br Jacob Phelps. Mrs 
Woodruff was taken sick as soon as she got there. Went to bed. Vomited & felt some better. 

I met with the Church in the evening. 8 was cut off from the Church who had joined Sidney 
Rig-don. Sidney Rigdon was cut off from the Church, for trying to divide the Church, calling 
Joseph Smith the fallen Prophet, & illegally ordaining men to be kings & Priest unto God when 
he had not that office himself. He had been in a state of apostacy for five years, & was now cut 
off by the legal authorities of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. And since he has 
been cut off he is trying to draw away as many as he can after him & as fast as their are any 
apostitize from the faith they join him & those that are cut of from the Church & thus he is trying 
to build up a party unto himself. 

The Church now seems to be firm in Boston. I had a good time with them. I spent the night at Br 
Phelps. Mrs Woodruff seemed much better in the evening. Distance of the day 35 m. 

23d Took cars. Rode to New Bedford. Stoped for the night with Elder George B Wallace 104 
south second street. Paid $4.50 cts. Distance 75 m. 

24th Sunday I met with the Saints in New Bedford. Herd Elder Blake in the forenoon. I preached 
in the afternoon & evening to a full house. I took tea with Br Dexter watch maker. He fixed my 
watch. I confirmed 3 persons in the evening who were baptized during the day. 

25th I took a walk through the city during the day, & for beauty & elegance in its location it can 
hardly be surpassed by any city. It may be the most noted city for fifing out whale men in the 
world. Almost the whole city has been built up by whalemen or through that trade. The docks are 
lined with Casks of whale & sperm oil. We went on board of a number of whale ships that were 
fitting out which would Carry from 1,500 to 3,000 barrels of oil. 

We have freequent opportunities of sending letters & paper to Elders Greward, Pratt & Rogers at 
Tahita South Pacific. A sister gave me six pair of fine specimens of shells that whalemen brought 
from that country. I also recieved a pair of Ivory swiss for winding silk, thread, &c of peculiar 
workmanship. 

Nov 26th 1844 } I perused a letter from Elder Benjamin Greward Tahita South Pacific. I wrote 
him a long letter & gave him a statement of affair since he left. Spoke of the death of Joseph & 
Hiram & Samuel Smith. We took Cars & rode to Providence. From thence to Stonnington Ct. 
There took the steemer Massacheusetts but lay at the dock all night in consequence of the storm. 

27th Left Stonnington at day light in a storm or against a strong wind. Arived in New York at 4 
oclok. Took coach. Rode to Ilus F Carters Store 460 Pearl st. From thence he accompanied us to 
his dwelling 24 second street out of the Bowery. We found him & his family well, Fare to New 
York from New Bedford self & Lady $1 1.25. Distance from New Bedford to New York 250 


Page303 




miles. 


During the evening I called at the Prophet Office No 7 spruce street. From thence 160 20th st. 
Then returned to 24 Second st & spent the night. 

[] I recieved A letter from my Father & Mother stating that Samuel Deming had turned Father off 
from the mill after he had spent all of his life untill old age & had spent the last summer in 
repairing the mills untill they were ready to start & winter ready to set in. Was turned off without 
any notice. May the Lord reward him according to his work. 

28th [] I went to the Prophet Office. Paid for the paper one year for Aphek Woodruff, Betsey 
Gossett, Sarah B. Foss, & sent 2 specimin Numbers to Azmon Woodruff, Charles Lyman, & 
Luther Wheeler. I recieved A Letter from President B. Young in answer to one I wrote him from 
Chicago. I met with Elder Clark who was with me through the day. I took my trunk & bed from 
2 1 Chatham st Br Simpsons to 24 Second street. It was a rainy, freezing, sleeting day. I recieved 
a deed to take to Elder Ward of Liverpool. I sent an appointment to Pheladelphia Church to 
attend a meeting on Tuesday. 

29th } } } I done up a package of papers Almanacs pamphlets &c & sent to the following persons: 
Aphek & Ozem Woodruff, Azmon Woodruff, Henry Woodford, Luther Wheeler, Betsey 
Gossetts, Mrs Mary A Cortis, Ezra Carter John Neff & Charles Lyman, Freedom Moulton Luther 
Scammons, & A copy of each to Mrs Jane Sloan 190 wooster corner of Bleeker. 

30th I went to the Prophet Office in the fore part of the day. In the afternoon I walked out with 
Mrs Woodruff & purchased sume things. 


December 

Dec 1st Sunday I met with the New York Church & preached three times to them during the day. 
I had an interview with a number of Elders viz Sarine, Pell, Holmes, Hardy and a number ol 
others. I spent the night at Mr Carters. 

2d I took cars. Rode to Philadelphia. Fare $4. 1 called upon Elder Jedadiah Morgan Grant. We 
were friends. Had a good time to gether. Talked over old times. I spent the time with him while 
in the city. Distance 110 miles. 

3d ^ I wrote a long strong letter to Elder Young. Gave him an account of the Recklesness of Wm. 
Smith & G J Adams during this season. In the evening I had the most interesting meeting with 
the Saints in Philadelphia that I had with any Church east of the mountains. At the Close of the 
meeting they gave me $50 fifty dollars & Br Grant took $11 dollars worth of Books of me. 

} * I wrote another letter with Br Grant. He wishes me to write to him as soon as I get to England 
& direct to Philadelphia. 

4th I took the parting hand with the Saints in Philadelphia & Elder Grant accompanied me 40 


Page304 




miles on the way. We got the Times & seasons & Neighbor direct from Nauvoo which was 
highly interesting. We parted on the way. 

1 arived in New York at about 8 oclok. I had three attacks by robbers, pick pockets, money 
drapers & c before I arived home but I escaped them all. Distance of the day 120 miles. 

5th This is a busy day with me & the last day I am to spend in New York before I sail. I spent the 
time with Br Ilus F. Carter Packing up my tru nk s & preparing to leave. 

6th } I wrote to Br Neff. Took our tru nk s bed provisions &c on Board of the ship, John R Skiddy 
& spent the night on board. 

7th We drew out into the river & lay all day. We aranged our trunks, baggage &c and prepared 
for Sea & in the night the wind changed to the NW. 

8th Capt. Wm. Skiddy & 10 cabin passengers came on board of the ship & they hoisted sail & we 
went out of Sandy Hook about 1 1 oclok. The pilot left us, & we steered our course. 

We were now on board of the new splendid Packet ship JOHN R. SKIDDY Captain Wm. Skiddy 
with 10 1st Cabin Passengers, 16 2d Cabin & about 100 steerage. Their was 20 seaman, 3 mates, 

2 carpenters, 2 Cooks 2 stewards making about 156 in all. 

8 of us had one half of the second cabin by ourselves, which we considerd a great privilege. Our 
company Consisted of myself & wife, Elder Hiram Clark & wife Elder Dan Jones & wife & 
Elders Milton Holmes & Leonard Hardy. This was the second time I had set sail to fulfill a 
mission to England, to assist in esstablishing & building up the church of Jesus Christ. We 
travelled all day under a Stiff Northwest wind. 

9th We were nearly all a little sea sick & lay abed most of the day. 

10th We had a calm for several hours. 

1 1th Wednesday Wind changed to the east. Commenced blowing a gale. It was head wind. We 
were drove under bare poles through the day & evening. It made us all dreadful sick. The sea was 
vary rough & piled up like hills. The gale increased untill about 9 oclock in the evening it 
appeared as though it must tear the yards from the mast. We kneeled before the Lord & Prayed 
unitedly that the Lord would cause the gale to seease & the wind to change that we might go 
forward & not backward & in a little time after the wind instantly seeased & finally changed into 
the South West which gave us fair wind. 

12th Thursday It blew a gale from the South West. We shiped some heavy stem seas. Broke in all 
the Stern windows. Filled the first Cabin with so much water that the tru nk s & baggage was all 
afloat. Destroyed much of the baggage of the passengers. Some water came into our cabin but no 
damage done the first & second cabin. Was on deck towards evening. The sea was piled up like 
mountains. When we were in the troth of the sea waves would arise at our stern as high as the top 


Page305 




of the mizzen mast & seemed almost impossible for the ship to arise soon enough to save the sea 
from breaking over her. But she was 1 ,000 ton ship & a clean & fast sailor. She carried at this 
time little or no sail. 

We were all vary sick, yet we would spend a few moments in viewing the wild, romantic, terrific, 
grand & sublime scenery that surrounded us in the wonders of the deep. Elder Holmes was quite 
sick & said he never beheld such a sight before. 

13th Friday I was vary sick through the day as was Mrs Woodruff & the babe & most of the 
company. I was quite sick through the night. We made good headway through the day from a 
North west wind. 

14th Saturday A calm. I felt vary sick & feble in the morning. 

15th Sunday A calm in the morning. Saw a school of Porposes. Wind arose fair from the North. 
We sail during the afternoon & evening about 1 1 not an hour. I felt a little better to day. All are 
on the mending order except Sister Clark. She is low. Can keep nothing on her stomach 

16th Monday Wind changed to the North East commencing a NE storm dead ahead. We lay to 
during the day. We had wind from evry point of compass during 24 hours & finally terminated in 
a gale in the evening from the West & North west. 

17th We had a stonny disagreeable day. A number of us was feeble especially sister Clark was 
sinking. Had kept but little on her stomach since she had been on board. We united in Prayer in 
her behalf. All lade hands upon her & rebuked her complaint & she began to amend from that 
hour. 

18th A stormy day. Wind shifted a number of times. Had some snow. 

19th Had west wind. Stood before it & traveld fast. All of us are righting up & getting better. 

20th Still stormy. Fair westerly winds. Sail well. 

21st Saturday A fair strong westerly wind with some rain. Some are a little sea sick. 

22d Sunday Cloudy we have had but little sun since we set sail. A Calm during a part of the day. 
In the evening the wind arose to a gale which blew strong most of the night. 

23d Fair wind & weather. I was sick & vomited. I had more sickness during this voyage than ever 
before crossing the ocean. 

24th Fair light breez. Sail 7 not. We are 3 hours 40 minutes from NY 360 miles from Cape Clear 
700 miles from Liverpool. 

(25) Christmas day The first one I ever spent on the Ocean. We had a Preserve Pudding for 
dinner & sweet short cake. Mrs Woodruff was much Pleased. One sail was in sight. We had a 
light breeze. 


Page306 




26th A Pleasent morning. Light breeze, fair. At 12 oclok we were in Long 15. 480 m to 
Liverpool. 

27th A stormy morning. Strong south wind. Head 2 points south of east. Said to be 80 m from 
Cape Clear at 12 oclok. Sail 5 not. Worship in the evening. Took S.W. tack. Changed at 12 oclok 
at night. 

28th Pleasent sun in the morning. 9 sail in sight. Head South East. Fair wind. Are about entering 
the Irish Channel. Saw a revolving light house in the evening, And land near midnight. 

29th Sunday Cloudy chilly. S.E. wind. My watch was 4 h 30 m from NY. Saw land on the Irish 
coast. 2 sail in sight. We are beating in the Channel & gain but little. 

30th Wind Still dead ahead. Cloudy & cold. Still beating in the channel on the same ground we 
were yesterday. Gain none at all. 

I was in dreams nearly all of last night. Saw A large fire, A field of green com, repaird old tubs to 
hold water, ground grain for the Saints Among other things I had an interview with the Patriarch 
Hiram Smith who was mattered. ? He wished me to get a plain gold ring made of fine gold set a 
stone in it & put some of his hair in it & wear it, & also some of Joseph Hair. 


3 1st The last Day of the year of AD 1844 Tuesday Still Head wind. It has changed a little, 
blowing from the N.E. Cold wind & cloudy. We are still beating in the channel. 


A dream on the night of the 30th Dec 1844 


Behold and lo (W) in a dream I was in Council with the Martered Prophet & Patriarch & the 
quorum of the Twelve Apostles in America. I thought we had all got to be ordained for some 
purpose. I was called upon by Br Young & another person to assist in administering the 
ordinances. In the midst of the Council, Signey Rigdon Came in & was objected to by Hiram 
Smith. 

I awoke & again fell asleep & dreamed of being in council with the Twelve & others. I made an 
address to them. John E Page arose to address the meeting but was stoped by some female & was 
followed by Elder Wiliard Snow. 

I have recorded this dream yet I Pay but little attention to dreams that I have on ship board for I 
am nearly all the while in some dream while asleep on board of the ship. 

Whole distance from New York to Liverpool is 3,800 miles. 


Page307 



Travled 91 miles not put down before in the Journal. 

I procured 20 subscribers for the T & S & Neighbor & N York Prophet. 20. 


A Synopsis of the travels and labours of 
W. Woodruff In A.D. 1844 


Travelled in the UNITED STATES And 
CANADA and visited the following towns and Cities 


Towns and Cities 

States 

Towns & Cities 

States 

Nauvoo 

Illinois 

Colebrook 

Conn 

Laharp 

tt 

Farmington 

ft 

Monmouth 

tt 

Hartford 

tt 

Princeton 

ft 

New Haven 

ft 

Ottaway 

f! 

Westfield 

Mass 

Aurorie 

tt 

Springfield 

ft 

Juliet 

tt 

Lowell 

tt 

Galena 

ft 

Salem 

tt 

Chicago 

tt 

Lynn 

tt 

Millwakie 

W.T. 

New Bedford 

tt 

Laport 

Ia. 

Boston 

tt 

Jackson 

Mich 

Peterboro 

N.H. 

Kalamazoo 

tt 

Gilsom 

tt 

Jacksonsburg 

tt 

Drewsville 

tt 

Franklin 

tt 

Walpole 

tt 

Royal Oak 

tt 

Philadelphia 

Penn 

Detroit 

tt 



Cleaveland 

Ohio 

And a great variety of 


Fairport 

tt 

other places not named. 

Buffalo & Oswego 

N. York 

Also Crossed the 


Rochester 

tt 

Atlantic from New York 

Syracuse 

tt 

to Liverpool. 


Schenactady 

"Troy 



Albany 

"New York 



through Welland Canal Canada 



Simsbury 

Conn 




Page308 




Avon " 

Canton " 

New Hartford " 

Canaan " 

Travelled Ten thousand & fifty miles 


10,050 

Miles 

Held 

53 

Meetings 

Attended 

10 

Conferens 

Attended with the quorum of theTwelvel2 

Councils 

Attended with Joseph & Hiram Smith 
the prophet And Patriarch & quorum 
of the Twelve & other Brethren in 
the affairs of the kingdom of God 

13 

Councils 

The Twelve in recieving our endowment 21 

Councils 

Was Baptized for dead friends 

19 

Persons 

Baptized for the dead (P.W.W) 

5 

Persons 

Baptized for the remission of sins 

6 

Persons 

Ordained 

1 

Patriarch 

tf 

3 

High Priest 

ft 

25 

Elders 

tf 

9 

Priest 

tf 

3 

Teachers 

tf 

2 

Deacons 

Confirmed 

42 

Persons 

Blessed 

6 

Children 

Married two coup 

2 

Couple 

Administered to the sick 

24 

persons 

Reported and recorded in my Journal 
The sermons of the Prophet Joseph 
Smith 

11 

sermons 

Wrote 

65 

Letters 

Recieved 

11 

Letters 

Reported & recorded in my Journal 
Seventeen discourses from the 
Twelve &c 

17 

Sermons 

Procured 10 subscribers for T & S 
& N N & 10 for N.Y. Prophet Total 

20 

Subscribers 


5 

January 1st 1845 


Page309 




to 

December 31st 1846 

January 


JAN 1st 1845 


This new years day finds me on board of the Packet Ship John R Skiddy in the british Channel 
beating against head wind trying to get to Liverpool. I am on a mission to England to take charge 
of the affairs both temporal & spiritual concemc of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day 
Saints. I am accompanied by Mrs Woodruff, & our youngest Child Susan Cornelia Also Elder 
Hiram Clark & wife Elder Dan Jones & wife Elders Milton Holmes & Leonard Hardy, all on a 
mission to England to labour in the vineyard of the Lord. We have been in the Irish Channel 5 
days beating against head wind making but little progress. I pray the Lord to speed us on our way. 

Jan 2d We are still in the Channel beating against head wind. In the afternoon it turned more fair 
& we made better head way. The Cork steemer came along side & took a few passengers. We 
sailed well during the night. 

3d Passed Holly Head at 9 oclok. Took Pilot on board at 10 oclok. He Pressed on all sail. He 
informed us that the steemer & the Europe both got in on Sunday the 29th Dec. Easterly winds 
have prevailed in the channel for six weeks. 

It is a busy day with us getting ready to go on shore. We were towed with a steemer within 4 
miles of Liverpool. They cast anchor. I took the steemer with my family & went to Liverpool but 
getting on the [dock?] I came near being pushed into the water & when the boat landed at the 
Dock before we got on shore it pushed of again & had to return to the dock in order to land us. 

We took Cab & called at 36 Chapel st Liverpool in order to find Elder Hedlock but no one was in 
so we spent the night at Pig & whistle No 20 chapel st & was truly glad to set our feet on shore 
again after being Confined to the ship at sea 27 days. The whole distance from New York to 
Liverpool is three thousand eight hundred miles. 3,800 miles. 

4th This is another severe hard days work packing up our things & getting our baggage & trunks 
through the Custom House. I had to Pay £1.1 Os on a few books & two small bundles of times & 
seasons sent by Elder John Taylor. I had an interview with Elders Hedlock & Ward & spent a 
few moments in talking matters & afairs over. We took Logings at No 1 1 Key St. My Bill at Pig 
& Whistle was 9/ shillings which I paid. 6 m. 

:]■ I wrote a letter to the New York Prophet. Infonned them of our arival. 


Page310 






5th Sunday I met in the Afternoon with the Saints in the Music Hall And addressed them. Was 
followed by Elders Hedlock & Clark. I again met with them in the evening. I addressed the 
meeting. Was followed by Elders Dan Jones M Holmes & L Hardy. All spoke well. We had an 
interesting time Although I was weary in body with my voyage. 3 m. 

6th A busy day. I had an interview with Hedlock & Ward. Spent the evening looking for a room. 
5 m. 

7th Spent a good part of the day at the emigrating Office No 36 Chapel St. Liverpool. In the 
evening we hired two rooms of Mr Baghall No 38 Highfield St. We moved into them. I took the 
lower room at 3/ per week & Elder Clark the uper room at 2. 1 settled the bill at Wm. Powell No 
1 1 keys st £ 1 2 s 2 p. We found Mr Bagnell & wife possessing a good spirit. I think they will be 
baptised. I saw a number of Elders to day. Among the number was Elder Straten. 

8th Wednesday Spent most of the day at home Elder Stratten & other elders was with me. I gave 
them an account of things in America. 

9th Thursday I let Elder Herry Cuerden have 6 vol Bound Times & Seasons [— ] £2. 8 s 


200 Death of the Prophet [— ] £1. 5 s 

25 Facsimiles 2 p 4 2 P 

/Feb 24 Received £1.9.2 £3.17.2 

M 

5.4/ 

I also Let Elder Slater have 200 Tracts death of the Prophet 1 1/2 P £1.5 s 0 

25 facsimilees 2 P 4 2 

£1.9.2 


I spent most of the day at the office. 

10th I spent A part of the day at the office & the remainder of the day with Elders Holmes & 
Hardy. 


On Wednesday the 8th inst. I let Dan Jones have Private Property to be endorsed on $500, order 
$52.84. Also twenty pounds one time five at another £25. $121.25 at $4.85 per pound. 

Jan 1 1th Milton Holmes to W Woodruff Dr to 4 copies of vol 4 Times & Seasons 8/ £1.12 

to 100 death of the Prophet 1 1/2 P 12.6 

to 25 facsimilee 2 P. 4.2 

£ 2 . 8.8 

Jan 1 1th Leonard Hardy to W. Woodruff Dr to 4 copies of vol 4 Times & Seasons 8/ 1.12 

to 100 Death of the Prophet 1 1/2 P 12.6 


Page3 1 1 




to 25 facsimilee 2 P. 4.2 

£ 2 . 8.8 

Jan 1 1th I Parted with Elder Holmes & Hardy this morning who are going to Manchester to visit 
a while with Elder Miller that conference. 

} I wrote Elder Davis of London a letter & sent him one that Mr Tuttle sent by me. 

12th Sunday I met with the Saints in the morning. Mrs Woodruff & Br & Sister Clark 
accompanied me to meeting. I addressed the saints in the fore part of the day. I dined with Elder 
George Allen And attended meeting in the Afternoon. 

I spoke to the Saints upon the importance of paying their tithing & the sisters to keep up their 
penny subscriptions for the building of the Temple. Several followed me. I recieved a letter from 
Elder John [] Taylor which was interesting. I spoke of its contents to the People. 

I took tea with Elder James Marsden. Again met with the Saints in the evening & had a full 
house. A number of strangers. I addressed them upon the first principles of the gospel. I had the 
spirit of the Lord and a good time. I administered to 2 sick. Blessed 2 children. Returned home & 
spent the night. 3 m. 

13th Monday I spent the day in writing. I wrote ;}■ 6 Letters to send to our friends in Nauvoo by 
the ship that was going over to the following persons: B Young H. C. Kimball J. Taylor G. A. 
Smith D. Webster & John Benbow. Also Mrs Woodruff wrote one Letter to W Woodruff Jr. to 
send to Br Benbow. 

14th ? Elder Hedlock recieved a letter from President Young bearing good news saying the 
Church was well United & peace & good order prevailed. And that Elder P P Pratt had gone to 
New York to take Charge of things in that region to publish a paper &c. These things I was glad 
to hear. I also recieved the Nauvoo papers & N.Y. Prophet all bearing good news of the progress 
of the work. I had some Conversation with Br Hedlock about affairs in the Office &c. I 
accompanied Elder Clark to meet with Elders George Allen, James Marsden, Joseph Ellis, & 
their wives, to settle a difficulty or report against Br Hiram Clark. It was all settelled amicably & 
we left in peace. 2. 

15th I spent the day writing my Journal. I had an interview with Elder [ ] Banks who is 

presiding over the Preston Conference. He informs me all is well there. 

We bought a Cap, penknife, 5 pair of stockings, 3 hankerchiefs, A toy of horses to send by Elder 
Carnes to our son Wilford with John Benbow. Whole expense 6/6. In the evening I examined the 
books containing an account of the Temple money. 

16th This was a [very?] busy day, in getting the Saints on board of the Ship Palmyra. I had an 
interview with Elder W. Benson who had been a member of the Policee in London for 4 years. 

He started with his family for Nauvoo with the rest of the Saints. The Palmyra drew out into the 


Page312 




river in the evening with 100 Saints to start for New Orleans. Fare for each Adult Passenger 
including provisions & Hospitol money £4.4 s. 

In the evening I returned home vary weary. Elder A Fielding was appointed to lead the Camp & 
Elders Carnes & Benson Counsellors. I Put into the hands of Elder Fielding £44.5 s 3/4 for the 
Temple. Also the Book Containing the names of the donors of the money. 5 miles. 

17 [] } I recieved a letter from Elder Charles Miller & wrote him one in return. I spent the fore 
part of the day at the office & in the evening I Called upon Mr S. Gordon 41 Park Road & gave 
him a letter from his son Alfred. I saw his mother but not his Father, as he was not at home. 

I meet at the Music Hall in Council with the Elders & addressed them. Returned home & spent 
the night. I bought a patent umbrella 6/6 a neck stock 4/. 5 m. 

18th Saturday I spent the most of the time in writing. I commenced an epistle for the Star. 

19th Sunday I preached in the morning in Liverpool upon the 22 ch. of Luke. I dined with one of 
the Brethren, visited and laid hands upon one or two sick perssons and as I came into the Music 
Hall Elder Ward spoke to me & wished me to go with him to Manchester to visit the Church & 
attend meeting in the evening as there had been an appointment for an american Elder to preach 
& many was expected out & no American to Preach. 

We took cars. Arived in Manchester. Arived at meeting Just at the commencement of it. Elder 
Ward spoke a few moments. Introduced me to the meeting. I arose. Addressed the meeting one 
hour & twenty minutes. Had good liberty & enjoyed myself well. Felt edefyed in one more 
meeting with the Manchester saints. I had many a hardy shake of the hand after meeting. 

I spent the night in company with Elder Ward at Br James Flint at 69 Lloyd Street Hulme near 
Manchester. Distance 33 miles. 

20th I spent the fore part of the day visiting Manchester. I had an interview with Elders M. 
Holmes, Leonard Hardy, and Charles Millar. All glad to see us. I had a plesant interview with 
them. I called upon Br Huett. I spent the night at Br J Flint. 4 mils. 

21st [] I returned to Liverpool in the 1st class cars fare 6/ in company with Elder Ward. On my 
arival I recieved a letter from Elder Elisha H. Davis from London. I also learned that there was a 
large Congregation assembled Sunday night at the Music Hall & was addressed by Elder Stratten. 
I also learned that a member of the Church by the name of Gennis had mistreated a houshold of 
the saints by his filthy conduct & would be brought up at the next Conference Council. I returned 
home & spent the night. Distance of the day 35 m. /Elder Stratten left for wales/. 

22d I spent the day writing an epistle to the Churches. 

23d This day was spent in writing also. 

24th Also. 


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25th Saturday We rented a house in Museum st of Mr George Mitten at the Bottom of Virgin 
street at £1.5.8 per month commencing the 1st day of Feb. The house we rented is the bottom 
house on Museum street. We moved into it though a rainy day & an exceding heavy wind at 
night. 3 m. 

26th Sunday Br Ward Called upon me & spent the fore part of the day. One ship & crew was lost 
in the british Channel last night with the wind & we expect to hear of other damage. I read Br 
Ward my Epistle to the Churches. He took it to copy for the press. I spent the day in writing & in 
the evening I met a large congregation in the Music Hall & preached to them from XV ch St John 
12 13 14 verses. I had good liberty & the house was still. 4 m. 

27th I spent the day at home in writing. In the evening I called upon Br Ward four doors above 
the Lamp in sheriff street out of great Oilier street. A snow storms in the night. 1 m. 

28th I spent the day at home draying off one of my Journals. 

29th I spent the day at home writing in my Journal. 

30th I spent the day at home writing in my Journal. Elder Clark left today for a mission. 

311 spent the fore part of the day writing. 


February 


Feb 1st I spent the day at home. 

2d Sunday I preached in the fore part of the day. Elders Hedlock & Ward dined with me & spent 
the afternoon with me. In the evening I Preached to an attentive Congregation. I lade hands upon 
4 sick persons. 4 m. 

3d I spent a part of the day at the office. 4 m. 

4th I spent the day at home writing. 

5th I spent the day at home looking over my Journal. 

6th I spent this day at home aranging my Journal And looking over my labours & travels in the 
morning during the last eleven years of my life commencing with 1834 to 1844 inclusive & the 
following is a true account & result of my travels & labours: 

In AD 1834 I travled 1,238 miles through 6 states. 

In 1835 I travelled through 4 States 3,248 miles held 170 meetings esstablished 8 preaching 
places planted 3 Churches Baptized 43. Three were preachers. Confinnd 35. Ordained 2 Teachers 
1 Deacon. Wrote 18 Letters Procured 22 subscribers for the papers 70 signers to the petition to 
the govomor of Mo. Had 3 mobs rise against me. 


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So I took the account of each year & the following is the sum Total: 

Travelled 50,572 miles through 20 of the United States twice through the Canidas, on three 
Islands of the sea crosted the Atlantic three times, visited 20 of the largest Cities & towns in 
England, & in wales. Held 963 meetings Attended 61 Conferences & 100 Councils. Baptized 
491, including 60 Preachers 2 Clarks of the Church of England 3 Sea Captains, 10 Kindred, 
Assisted in baptizing 133 others. Ordained 2 Patriarchs 3 High Priest 149 Elders 134 Priests 62 
Teachers & 14 Deacons. Esstablished 74 Preaching Places Planted 55 Churches Numbering 

l, 565 members. Blessed 171 Children. There were 218 Cases of healing under my hand. I 
married 14 Couple. Was baptized for 36 Dead friends. Baptized for 135 Dead. Reported & 
recorded in my Journals 30 of President Joseph Smiths sennons, & 25 of the quorum of the 
Twelve. I wrote 563 Letters recievd 257 Letters. Procured 205 subscribers for the Latter Day 
Saints Papers & 70 signers to the Govornor of the state of Mo. for redress of wrongs in the 
persecution of the Saints. Had 1 1 mobs rise against me. I had charge of the business part of the 
Printing office in Nauvoo for two years. I procured for the House in Kirtland $91.1 gave for the 
Temple in Nauvoo $200 & obtaind of others for the Temple $500. 

Feb 7th 1845 [] I recieved 2 letters from Elder McCuen the Presiding Elder over the Conferences 
in Herefordshire. 4 m. 

T 8th I attend the council of officers in Liverpool this evening. A trial was on hand. I 
descove[re]d the Arch enemy was deeply rooted in the hearts of several men who wer Elders & 
they were watching for iniquity & on the road to aposticy & through their influence the Council 
was detained untill one oclock in the morning. Those elders if they do not repent will go out of 
the church. Gen-nis was the Plaintiff. 4 mile. 

Feb 9th [] } I wrote A letter to Elder Davis of London. I spent the day at the office. I perused the 
9th No of the Star Containing a long address to the Saints in the British Islands which I wrote. 4 

m. 

10th Sunday A severe cold snow storm. I Preached at the music Hall in the morning partook of 
the Sacrament in the Afternoon, & preached in the evening again, from Rev 14 ch. 6 v. Spoke of 
the origin of the Church Joseph recieving the Administration of the Angel. I Confirmed two, lade 
hands upon 6 sick consecrated 4 bottles of oil. Walked 8 miles. 

1 1th Went to the Office & spent the day. Distance 4 m. 

12th [] I recieved a letter from Elder Clayton. I walked to the office. Spent the fore part of the 
day. In the evening I accompinied Mrs Woodruff & Clark to Br Tysom’s & took tea. 5 m. 

13th [] I recieved two letters one from P. P. Pratt & S. Brannan No 7 spruce Street New York & 
one from John Taylor Nauvoo Also 2 Nauvoo Neighbors. 4 m. 

14th } I wrote Elder J. M. Grant of Philadelphia a letter. I also recieved 2 more Neighbors & five 


Page315 




Prophets. P. P. Pratt Is over the eastern Churches. Their appears to be a prospect of another riot 
or outbreak about Nauvoo, from the mob according to the last Neighbor. I spent most of the day 
at the Office. 4 miles. 

15th In company with Elder Leonard Hardy & James Darling Ross I rode in the rail road to 
Manchester. Met with Elder Milton Holmes. I spent the night with Br Flint. Distance 33. 

16th Sunday Met in a special Conference with Elders Hedlock, Ward, Holmes, Hardy, Ross, 
Miller, & manny others. W. Woodruff the president of the Churches in this relrn took the chair as 
president of the meeting acompinied by his Councillors viz Elders Hedlock & Word. Conference 
opened at 10 oclok their being present the Presidency of the realm 5 High Priest 30 Elders 3 1 
Priest 21 Teacher & 4 Deacons. 

Meeting opened by singing & Prayr by the President. The meeting was Addressed by Elder 
Hedlock, & followed by Elder Ward who presented many important principles & truths to the 
Conference. I followed them. The spirit of the Lord was with us & we had an interesting time. 

I dined at Br Thomas Shelden's with Elder Holmes. I truly felt to rejoice to have the privilege of 
associateing with Br Holmes in England as we had travelled much together in america. 

We met with the Officers in the Hall before meeting & lade before them the business of the day. 

We then met a vast assembly of the Saints. The Hall was crouded. Elder Hedlock arose & lade 
before the meeting the changes we thought wisdom to make in the manchester Conference. Was 
followed by Elder Ward. I arose & made some remarks upon the subject. It was then moved by 
Elder Charles Miller that Elder Milton Holmes be appointed to preside over the Manchester 
Conference. The motion was second & carried by A unanimous vote. Elder Holmes accepted the 
appointment. It was then moved & Carried with a unanimous vote that Elder James D Ross be 
appointed the Presiding Elder over the Manchester branch. He accepted the Apointment. 
Sacrament was then administered to the vast Congregation which took untill dark. 

I went & took tea at Br Sheldons, met again at 7 oclock & had a good time. Elder Hedlock spoke 
of the plans that would be well to enter into for the temperal as well as spiritual welfare of the 
Church such as entering into the Manufacturers of various branches of trades &c all of which was 
interesting. When he Closed, He & Br Ward had to leave for Manchester Liverpool. They could 
scarcely get out of the house so many wish to shake hands with them. 

After they left I arose & spoke about half an hour & enjoyed myself well. The spirit of the Lord 
was with us. Love & union pervaded the congregation. I was made glad with the seene of 
beholding so many saints united in the New & Everlasting Covenant. 

I often thought I would like to see President Joseph Smith meet with a conference of Saints in 
England but he has gone. We can go to him but it is not expected he will come to us. 

Our Conference closed with the best of feelings. A good impresion was made upon the minds of 


Page316 




many. Their are many wann hearted Saints in the Manchester Conference. At the Close of the 
meeting I went home with Br Flint & spent the night. 4 m. 

This day fulfilled a prophecy which I predicted in the house of the Lord in Kirtland Ohio in 1837 
that I should attend a Conference with Elder Milton Holmes in one of the British Isles. 

We had one of the most interesting conference I ever attended abroad in the vineyard. Much of 
the spirit of the Lord & union rested upon the vast Congregation of the Saints. I lade hands upon 
12 & administered to them for sickness. At the Close of the Conference I went home with Br 
Flint & spent the night, And had the following 'T-Jf Dream: 

I visited the flouring mill in Fannington Ct. whare I found my Father Aphek Woodruff who had 
attended those mills for the last 30 years. I looked upon my father who appeared to be so infirm 
& feeble he could not walk & said he felt strang. I went to his help. He seemed to be struck with 
death. He fell into my arms. I called upon Uncle Ozem Woodruff who was present to come to my 
assistance. He did so & it seemed that father was about breathing his last, & I awoke, & their was 
a deep impression left upon my mind by the dream. I some fear I shall not behold my fathers face 
again in the flesh but time will detennin. 

[] I recieved a letter from Br H Clark. 

17th In Company with Elders Holmes Hardy Ross & Miller I rode to Newton Heath Manchester 
to Br John Armstrong. Had a good pudding for dinner containing a sixpens silver peace. Their 
was ten of us. The pudding cut into 10 peaces, I had the good fortune to get the sixpens. We had 
a piesent time together. We spent the evening teaching principle & singing. 

I then returned to Manchester in Company with Elders Holmes Hardy Miller, Ross & Br & Sister 
Shelden Br & Sister Dunn Sisters Bradbury & Hewett. We called at Br Millers. Administered to 
his wife. Br Holmes & myself spent the night at Br Sheldens. Br Holmes has taken up his abode 
their whare he was made comfortable by the kind treatment of sister Shelden who is a worthy 
sister indeed. 

18th } I wrote a letter to Elder H. Clark. I spent the fore part of the day at Br Sheldens. I visited 
Mr Thomas Holbrook at 37 Oxford Street Manchester. His Lady is a Saint at heart. 

* * [ Asterisks are Woodruffs .] In the afternoon in company with Elders Holmes, Hardy, Miller, 
Ross, & sister Shelden, I visited the Mechanics Institution a regular Museum. Many intereting 
paintings, sculptures, machinery, & a great variety of ancient works. Among other things we saw 
the happy family consisting of a great variety of animals & birds such as cats, rats, squirrels, 
monkeys, hedgehogs, pigs rabits, dogs & a great variety of other animals & birds all in the same 
cage taking care one for the other. We saw many electerized. 

We all returned to Br Sheldens & took tea. We each got our likeness taken or profile. We paid 6/ 
each. 


Page3 1 7 




In the evening we held a council with the officers of the Manchester in the Manchester branch. 
We had a good time. 

I spent the night at Br John Druce No 6 Sand-ford street Broughton Road Salford near 
Manchester. 12 miles. 

19th I took 3d class cars & rode through a deep vale, vary mountaineous each side to Brig house 
the nearest Station to Bradford. I here took Coach & rod 7 miles to Bradford. It was an exeeding 
Cold morning & I got much Chilled both on the Cars & Coach making 41 miles travel before 10 
oclok in the morning. I called upon Br Edward Milnes on Bower street Manchester Road, 
Bradford. He is the Presiding Elder of the Bradford Branch. I spent the day with him. 

In the afternoon Elder Sheets came from [— ]. Came over from America with Elders Straten & 
Davis. We were truly glad to once more meet to gether though on a foreign shore. 

We attended a prayer meeting in the evening. I herd the testimony of many of the Saints & I 
occupied some time in teaching them. We spent the night at Br Child's in Wellington street in 
company with Elders Sheets & Ure. Distance of the day 45 mil. 

} I wrote a letter to Elder Davis of London. 

Feb 20th 1845 This was a solmen & gloomy day to my feelings in some respect, in consequence 
of walking over the ground which oft had been trod by the much lamented & worthy ELDER 
LORENZO D. BARNES And also of viewing the tomb whare sleeps his sacred Dust. 

I Left Bradford in company with Elders Sheets & Ure. Br Sheets is presiding over the Bradford 
Conference the one that Elder Bames was presiding over when he died. Br Ure is presiding over 
the Sheffield conference. We left Bradford to gether for the purpose of visiting the grave of Elder 
Barnes in Idle Yorkshire 3 miles from Bradford. 

When we arived about half way we have a fair view of Idle & the Church whare lies the grave of 
Elder Barnes. We had a beautiful green vale to pass through before ariving at Idle, which is on 
top of a hill. The fields of grass were as green as may, though in Febuary which made a splendid 
appearence. We travelled on the Road that Elder Branes had walked over many scores of times in 
Preaching the gospel of Jesus Christ. I felt solumn indeed. Was filled with meditation untill I 
arived at Idle Containing a Population of 11 about 7,000 inhabitants & a branch of the Church of 
Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints of 37 members. 

We Called upon Elder Thomas Cordingly & his family who had the Care of Elder Bames 
through his sickness & death. They Pointed out the house & room to me whare he was sick spent 
his last hours, passed through his last sickness afflictions & Death. 

After getting some refreshment we walked to the Church yard & I gazed upon the silent grave of 
our beloved Brother & Elder Lorenzo Barnes. My feelings were keene & sensitive. As I stood 


Page318 




upon his grave I realized I was standing over the body of one of the Elders of Israel of the horns 
of Joseph of the Seed of Ephraim, one of the members of zions Camp who had travelled more 
than 1,000 miles in 1834 for the redemption of his persecuted, afflicted brethren. Offered to lay 
down his life for their sake. One who had the hearts & affection of thousands both in America & 
England, one who felt a deep interest in the welfare of his parents and kindred, One whose 
fidelity was stronger than death towards his Lover, his brethren eternal truth, & his God. While 
Standing upon his grave I offered up my vocal Prayer to Israels God, that I might die the death of 
the righteous when Called away & that my last end might be as wise & safe as his & that his 
sacred dust might be called forth in the mom of the first resurrection. 

I decreed in my heart I would not return to my native country untill I had caused to be erected a 
tomb stone over his grave to say to his friends that should Chance to pass that way that here 
sleeps the worthy LORENZO D. BARNES The first of Zions Camp who has found a grave in a 
foreign Land. I bowed my knees upon [— ] grave & plucked some pebbles in memory of his 
worth. I thought of his <[--]> Lover, his Mother, his Father, his kindred & the Saints for they all 
loved him, & would have thought it a privilege blessing to have been permitted to have droped a 
silent tear upon his lonely bed. 

0 Lorenzo thou has fallen, in thy youth as it were A marter for the truth, in a foreign land. But if 
thy God permits me to tread again the Courts of his house, in Zions land, & have access to the 
sealing powers, endowments, & keys of the kingdom of God I'll remember thee & pray that thy 
exhaltations may not come short of the Chiefest of thy quorums. 

1 retired from his grave in company with my brethren meditating upon the life of Br Bames. I 
made dilligent enquiry of the family whare he died & of others concerning his sickness & death 
And I obtained the following information: 

That Elder Barnes during the last of Sept walked one day about 13 miles vary fast to get to the 
rail road in time to get the cars. Some part of the way he run, got into a high state of perspiration 
& ownly had time to step on board just as they were about starting. He rode on the rail road about 
20 miles during which time he became entirely Chilled, which flung him into a sever Cold that 
settelled upon his lungs brought on the quick consumption from which he never recoverd. He 
attended a conference & Preached several times afterwards but was vary feble. The last time he 
Preached was from the following words: "There remaineth therefore a rest for the people of 
God." 

After he was confined to his bed he was asked if he would have a Physician his answer was 
deffi-nately [no. If] he Died he wished to Die a natural death. If he lived he should live unto the 
Lord. If he died he should die unto the Lord. He manifested a great desire to live if it was the will 
of God that he might again return to Nauvoo. He was deprived of his reason during some portion 
of his sickness. His whole conversation at such times was about Nauvoo, how he should get 
there, & his friends. Spoke of his mother freequently. The night before his death, he had his 
reason & bore a strong & faithful testimony of the truth of the fulness of the Gospel as taught by 


Page319 




the Latter Day Saints. Stated that it would not be long before the Kings & great men of the earth 
would Call for the mountains & rocks to fall upon them to hide them from the wrath of the Lamb 
of God that was to be poured out upon the earth for soon would the nations of the earth be 
deluged with the judgments of God, & with many other words did he testily of those things that 
would spedily come to Pass. 

I learned that Elder Bames suffered by going with poor boots & wet feets from place to Place. He 
was slow to make his wants known to the brethren & some were to slow to administer to his 
wants untill he got sick. But evry attention was paid him after he was confined to his bed but it 
was to late. 

I enquired if their was any writings that he left as a Journal but could find nothing but the 
following lines as a Correspondance in Poetry between himself & his intended Miss Susan 
Conrad which shows the strong fidelity of his heart which was Characterestic of the man throug 
evry action of his life. 

IS) {«} 

Lines from Susan in Hebrew Lovely Jan 1st 1842 

Strive then to remember me 
Untill life shall seease to be. 

Sweet twill be to think on thee 
And know thou dost remember me. 

Nay; to say forget the is vain 
Has meditation ceased to reign? 

Continue true and often send 
One thought to a confiding friend. 

Now if in the festive hall 
Remember me remember all 
And if away o’er land or sea 
Do I Pray remember me. 


In Answer 

Lovely and lasting are the thoughts of thy name. 
O; Susan; O Susan to forget thee would be vain. 
Rememberance of thee I shall sweetly retain 
Ever rejoiceing that true you remain. 

No never fear Susan the victory is ours. 

Zion we'll inherit and rejoice in its towers. 

O’er troubles and trials which throng in our path 


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Determined to conquer we'll triumph at last. 

3 By the bands of [— ] united in love 

As Saints let us live, as Saints let us prove 
Remembering for each other unceasing to pray 
Night after night and day after day. 

4 Evening and morning I'll think of thee 
Susan though Journeying on land or the Sea. 

Yea night after night and day after day 

My thoughts o’er the deep to Susan will stray. 

New York Jan 9th 1842 L.D. Barnes 

1 When I bade my home farewell 
On Brittons shore far hence to dwell 
When I watched by evening light 
My native shores fade from my sight 
O! Susan then I thought of thee. 

2 When I ploughed the raging sea 
Whose Billows rolled Continually 
When on high our Ship was bourn 
Or fiercely driven by winters stonn 
When roaring surges dashed oer me 

0 Susan then I thought of thee. 

3 When I gazed with eager eyes 
On Britons Shores before me rise 

1 viewed her mountains capted with snow 
While chilling winds did round me blow 
Till late our haven hove in view 

0 Susan then I thought of you. 

4 When on Europes Shores I stood 
And gazed far oer old oceans flood 

1 thought of all I'd left behind 

My Parents dear And friends so kind 
I thought of their [— ] company 
But Susan most I thought of thee. 

5 When I the streets of towns parade 
And gaze upon proud Britons maids 
With sparkling eyes and silken hair 
With rosy checks and bosoms fair 
Methinks they have no chairmes for me 


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For Susan yet I think on thee. 

6 When wafted by the power of steam 
Through landscapes fair and meadows green 
Through wide spread fields of waving grain 
Mid wood land hills or on the plain 
Though swift I fly and fair my view 

Yet Susan then I think of you. 

7 When amid my foreign friends 
A Cheerful hour I try to spend 
Whare kindness beams in evry face 
And danties rich our feastings grace 
Mid all these scenes our hearts are true 
That heart which's Susans placed on you. 

8 When before Jehovah’s Throne 

I bow and all my wants make known 
I ask for blessings on my friends 
And heavenly grace my stepts to attend 
While thus in prayer I bow my knee 
O! Susan then I pray for thee. 

England A.D. 1842 Lorenzo D. Bames 

During the evening I preached in Idle to a good congregation, many of which had heard Elder 
Barnes preach. Elder Barnes was beloved by the Saints in England the same as he was in 
America. The congregation gave good attention. I spent the night with Br Cordingly. Distance of 
the day 4 m. 

21st I Parted with the Saints in Idle & returned to Bradford In Company with Elders Sheets & 
Ure. Also Elder Abraham Lord the presiding Elder over the Idle branch Accompanied us. We 
took dinner at Br Pears at little Horton. In the evening we returned to Brother Child's & spent the 
night. Distance of the day 5 miles. 

The Brethren Play Carded the Town of Bradford. The Bills contained the following lines: 

? Conference The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints will hold their conference in the 
Philadelphia Chapel North wing Bradford on Sunday Feb 23d 1845. To commence at Ten 
o’clock in the morning two in the Afternoon & six in the evening; when there will be present on 
the occasion two Americans one of whom Belongs to the quorum of the Twelve Apostles. Also 
there will be preaching on the fulness of the everlasting gospel as revealed by the Angel of the 
Lord in these last days on the following evenings Monday & Tuesday & Wednesday In the said 
Chapel to co 11 ence at Eight o’clock each Evening. N.B. People of all Persuasions are invited to 
attend. J Parkinson Printer Market Street ^Bradford. 


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22 I spent the day in Bradford writing upon the death of Elder Lorenzo D. Barnes & copying 
some of his poetry in this Journal. 

Bradford Quarterly Conference 


Feb 23d Sunday The Bradford quarterly Conference of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day 
Saints assembled at ten o’clock in the Philadelphia Chapel North Wing Bradford. There being 
Present W. Woodruff of the quorum of the Twelve, 1 High Priest, 1 of the seventies, 9 Elders 9 
Priest, 6 Teachers, & 4 Deacon. Elder Elijah F. Sheets The Presiding Elder over the conference 
was called to the chair And Priest Beecroft chosen clerk. Conference opened by singing & Prayer 
After which the following branches were represented: 



members 

E 

P 

T 

Bradford Branch by Elder Milnes 

90 

3 

5 

4 

Leeds " " Emsley 

40 

2 

2 


Idle " " Lord 

38 

2 

4 

2 

Total 

168 

7 

11 

5 


D B 

2 6 

1 1 

2 6 

5 13 


After the representation the meeting was addressed by Elder Woodruff upon Principle. There was 
a good number of Saints to gether & had a good time. A band of music set in front of the Pulpit 
& Played in unison with the singers. 

Met in the Afternoon at 2 oclok & had a Crouded house of Saints & citizens. Meeting opened by 
singing & Prayer. Remarks by Elder Woodruff on the Sacrament after which Elder Sheets 
blessed the bread & wine. We communed with a large number of Saints after which we 
confirmed 4 persons & Blessed 3 children. Elder Woodruff explained the ordinances, and 
addressed the assembly for about half an hour. 

In the midst of the remarks Mr Bastow who had been a Priest in the Church but was Cut off and 
[--] intoxicated arose and disturbed the meeting, which made some Confusion. Meeting was soon 
dismissed. A contribution was taken up. 

We met in the evening at 6 oclock & had crouded house. The music & singing was splendid. 
After that was over Elder Woodruff arose in the mids of a vast congregation & took for his text 
the 14 eh. of Rev. 6,7,8 verses as the foundation of his discours. The speaker gave an account of 
the origin foundation, rise & progress of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter day Saints. He 
spoke of the leading mind of Joseph Smith the way he called upon God & had the Administering 
of the Angels & traced the subject through untill he sealed his testimony with his blood. He 
spoke an hour with the power of God resting upon him before the congregation who was as still 
as the house of Death. The most intens interest prevailed And a good impression was made. At 
the close of the meeting a contribution was taken up for the expens of the house when they 
collected £2.9.2. The Conference Closed with the best of feelings & all considered that good had 
been done. 


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Elijah E. Sheets President 
Beecroft Clerk 

I confirmed 4 person & blessed 3 children & lade hands upon 12 sick & spent the night at Br 
Child at Peel street. 

24th Parted with many Saints. Spent the day with Elders Sheets, Ure, Cureden & Wm. Walker. I 
Preached in the evening at the Chapel. The band of music came out as usual & added their music 
with the singing. Their was not so many out as was on Sunday. I lade hands upon 4 sick. 4 miles. 

25th I took the parting hand with Elders Sheets & Ure & many Saints & left Bradford in Coach & 
rode to Brighouse 8 miles then took cars & rode to Manchester. 34 miles. 

Stoped at Elder Druce No 6 Sandford Street Broughton Road Salford, & took dinner. From 
thence to Br Sheldens 43 Lombard street Deans gate. Br Flint had moved to 98 Upper Chatham 
st Charlton upon Medlock. I spent several hours with Elder Holmes at Br Sheldens. He was still 
poor in health but better than he had been. I saw several of the Elders. 

In the evening I took an open car & rode 35 miles in the rain to Liverpool & spent the night with 
my family in Newsum street. Distance of the Day from Bradford to Liverpool 77 mi. 

26th [] f f I recieved three Letters one from Mr Robinson about his Son in Nauvoo, one from Br 
Deardon, one from Br Jones. I wrote 5 Letters one to Mr Robinson one to Mr Deardon, one to Br 
Dwight Webster one To Elder John Taylor & one to Elder Wm. Clayton. The Ship cleared the 
dock to day that had 35 of the Saints our passengers on board. It was quite a busy day in some 
respets. I perused a long letter to day from Elder Elijah Malin jr. to Br Davis which was 
interesting. 4 m. 

27th } I wrote a letter to Dan Jones in wales & spent most of the day at the office. In the evening I 
Payed Mr Mitten for the rent of febuary £1.5.8 The Council met this evening of the Liverpool 
Church & Elders McGoffee & [ ] gave their resignation & wished to be cut off from the 

church. Their request was granted them with Joy. 

28th It was on this day that I Paid Mitten & that the meeting or Council was held & McGoughy 
Cut off instead of the 27th. 


March 

March 1st 1845 My Birth Day Aged 38 Years. Born March 1st 1807. 


toi recieved a letter to day from a friend containing a copy of a letter Dated Pittsburgh Jan 30, 

45 written by John Greenhow at Pittsburgh to his Father in Kendal Stating that he was getting the 
doctrins & Covenants Sterotyped in that place & was going to bring the plates to England to Print 


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the work here & get the copyright secured so that the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints 
could not Print them. This certainly is a bold move for an apostate or apostates to undertake to 
Print the works of the Church & rob them out of it. I view it nothing more than the mercy of God 
in Putting the knowledge of this thing into my hands. I spent the day in examining the Law to see 
what I could leam concerning securing copy rights. Walked 8 miles. 

2d Sunday I dreamed last night of seeing two large snakes coming out of a large tree. Their 
object seemed to be to bite me. Soon a third one appeared, but I thought they had no power to 
hann me. Soon I met another one which I draged with my foot a long distance in the road. He 
tried to bite me. I soon trod on his neck. He run his tongue out, but I killed him. 

* I spent the fore part of the day at Home. The afternoon I spent in company with my Counsellors 
viz Elders Hedlock & Ward at my house. I lade hands upon their heads & ordained them as 
Counsellors & they laid hands upon me & blessed me. We partook of the Sacrament to gether & 
then called upon God our heavenly Father by prayer in unity for Him to bless us & frustrate the 
designs of our enemies & overthrow the plans which they have lade to rob the Church & injure 
the cause of God. We had a good time to gether. The spirit of God was with us. In the evening I 
went to the Music Hall & Preached from the 5ch. of Mathew & had a good time. 

} I wrote a letter to Elder B. Young & gave him an account of affairs in this land. Gave him to 
understand that Brother Hedlock had filled orders from the Presdency & the Twelve since he had 
been agent for the Twelve in England to the amount of [ ] Pounds [ ] Shillings [ ] Pence 

equal to [ ] dollars [ ] cts. Most of this was expended in emigrating the poor which the 

Twelve have sent for & emigrated to America free of cost to the poor but have had to bear the 
burthen & expens of it themselves which shows the Charity of the Twelve which has been to the 
impoverishing of themselves. Also Hedlock had to pay in buying out Clark & Fielding £ 120 [ 

] Taking all thes thingstogether with £[ ] which was expenses of the office, taxes, rent 

labour &c during the time making a sum Total of £[ ] s [ ] P. 

The recepts of the office during the same time was ownly £ [ ] leaving the office in debt at the 

present time £[ ] = [ ] = [ ] = asa balance between recepts & expendutures. 

I also informed Br Young of the deep laid plot of our enemies John Greenhow Samuel Bennett & 
others of trying to rob the Church in England of the Copy right of the doctrins & Covenants &c. / 
} I wrote a letter to M. [ ] Secretary at Stationars Hall London requesting information 

concerning securing the Copyright of any work./ 

3d [] I recieved another letter from my friend to day stating that Mr Greenhow had written to his 
Son John Greenhow at Pittsburgh. } I wrote a letter to Br Coreden to send me the copy of 
Doc-trins & Covenants which he has. I lade hands upon 6 sick persons on Sunday & to day. 4 
miles. 

4th [] } I received three letters and wrote three in return & spent most of the day at the office. 4 
miles. 


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5th [] 4 (/) I received 3 letters & wrote two in return. One was from London on the Book of 
Doctrins & Covenants. I wrote one to Scotland. The Liverpool Horse race called the steeple 
Chase was performed at 4 o'clock PM. four miles from Liverpool. Their were over a dozen riders 
who took a strait course over all hedges, ditches, fences, walls, holes, pools, rivers &c. One horse 
broke his leg, another his neck, & one man broke his back. 

6th I spent the day at the office. [] I recieved 3 Letters. 4 miles. 

7th } I wrote a letter to Br llus F Carter & spent the day at the office. 4 m. 

8th 1 wrode to Preston with Elder Ward & spent the night at Sister Ellen Creer 101 Bedford st. 35 

m. 

9th March 1845 Sunday Preston quarterly Conference met at half past 10 oclock AM. Their 
being present one of the Twelve, 2 High Priest, 16 Elders 14 Priest, 10 Teachers & 3 Deacons. 
Elder Banks was called to the Chair. 

Their were Eleven branches represented containing 505 members, 1HP, 15 Elders 24 P. 15 T. & 

4 D. There were 21 Baptized since the last conference. Elders Woodruff & Ward addressed the 
meeting some during the forenoon. 

In the afternoon sacrament was administered. Ordained 1 Elder confirmed 3. Elder Woodruff & 
Ward spoke during the meeting. 

Elder Leonard Hardy was Chosen to Preside over the Preston Conference. He accepted the 
appointment. 

In the evening I addressed the meeting. The House was filled to overflowing & vary warm. 1 
spoke one hour & a quarter upon the following subjects: 

The feelings views & desires of Joseph Smith when he was led to enquire of the Lord? 

The administrations of the Angel unto him. 

His recieving the gospel & keys of the kingdom. 

The Prophets cares and labours in the progress of the Church. 

The endowment of the Twelve. 

Death of the Prophet & Patriarch. 

Return of the Twelve to Nauvoo & their Conference with the Church & organization of the 
Church at Nauvoo & all the Churches throughout the U.S.A. the same as in England. 

My appointment to England & arival. 


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Our care & labours over the Churches in England. 

The importance of building the Temple also of Printing the doctrins & Covenants. 

Called upon all the Elders to help us in rolling on the cause & kingdom of God. 

The Congregation gave good attention & I had much freedom of speech & spirit of speaking & 
had a good time but was in a high state of perspiration. We dined & took tea at Br Lawrence 
Newsham 13 London road. I spent the night at Sister Creers No 101 Bedford street. 

10th * I took walk in the fore part of the day through the city. Visited the old Cock pit, whare 
Elders Kimball & Hyde had Preached so much & Dr Richards. We walked up & down the river 
whare many hundreds of the Saints had been baptized. 

I also viewed the Place whare the Scotch made an attack upon the English at Preston. Some of 
the Scotch entered the town as far as the Cock pit but the most of them were slain in the valley. I 
saw their burial place. There is now a groove growing over their bodies. This was in the year AD 
1745 Just one hundred years since. 

We returned to [— ] town. Dined together. We then took the parting hand with Elders Banks & 
Hardy & all the Saints. Elder Hardy has had the small pox of late but is getting well over it. We 
rode to Liverpool & I spent the night at home. 35 m. I lade hands upon 10 sick while in preston. 

1 1th [] } I recieved two Letters & wrote one To Br Henry McCureden & gave him a sharp 
reproof. I had a visit in the evening of Br & sister Haywood & sister Clark. I blessed sisters 
Heywood & Clark. 4. 

12th 0 In company with sisters Woodruff Clark & Haywood I visited Lord Nelsons monument of 
Liverpool. Opened on the 21 day of oct 1813. The subscription commenced for this purpose on 
the 15 Nov 1805 and finished the same year amounting to about £9,000. The first stone was laid 
on the 15 July 1812. The whole of the design was Planned by Mathew Charles Wyatt Esqr of 
London. The monument which is in Bronze was executed by Richard Westmaco[tt?] Esqr R. A. 
London, the Pedestal of hendal Marble by Messrs Hetherington & Webster of this town. 

Description of the Monument 

The figures which constitute the principal design are Nelson, victory, Death, his country 
mourning for her loss, and her navy eager to avenge it, naturally claim a place in the Group. The 
principal figure is the Admiral who resting one foot on a conquered enemy and the other on a 
cannon with an eye stedfast and upraised to victory is recieving from her a fourth Naval Crown 
upon his sword which to indicate the loss of his right ann, is held in his left hand. The loss of his 
right arm is concealed by the Flag which the Genius of victory is lowering to him and under the 
folds of which Death lies in ambush for his victim by which it is indicated that he recieved the 
reward of victory and the stroke of Death at the same time. By the figure of an enragd british 


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Seaman is represented the zeal of the navy to revenge the loss of its most gallant leader. Brittanna 
in the back ground with laurels in her hand and leaning regardless of them on her spear and 
shield describing the feelings of the country fluctuating between the pride and anguish of a 
triumph so dearly purchased. 


Description of the Pedestial 

Round the uper part of the moulding are inscribed Lord Nelson's ever memorable & to be revered 
words "England expects evry man to do his duty." At the base of the Pedestal are four figures in 
Chains, 


as Captives emblematic of the four peculiarly great victories he achieved. The space between 
these figures on the sides of the Pedestal are filled by four grand Bass reliefs, executed in Bronze 
representing the four glorious victories viz: 


St. Vincent 

14th Febuary 1797 

Nile 

1st August 1798 


Copenhagen 
2d of April 1801 
Trafalgar 

21 of October 1805 


Dimentions of the Monument 


Hight of the outward Plinth on which the rails stand 1 ft 6 in. Pedestial 8 10 Monument 14 2. 

15th } [] I recieved a letter from Br Cuerden confessing his fault & asking forgivness. It was a 
humble letter. I wrote two Letters one to Bro Cuerden & one to Br L. Hardy. 

Glasgow Conference 

16th The Glasgow Conference of the Church of Jesus Christ of hatter Day Saints assembled at 
the ODD FELLOWS HALL in Glasgow at 1 1 oclok A.M. Meeting was called to order & Elder 
Peter McCue was called to the chair And Elder Wm. Gibson Clerk. Their was present one of the 
quorum of the Twelve, 4 High Priest, 24 Elders 25 Priest, 21 Teachers and 13 Deacons. 
Conference opened by singing & Prayer after which 1 5 Branches of the Church was represented 
containing 1,065 Members, 35 Elders, 51 Priest, 37 Teachers, 24 Deacons. 

The meeting was addressed by Elders Woodruff Hedlock & Ward, And adjournd. 

Met according to Adjournment. The reporter of the Glasgow Examiner was present in the fore 
noon but did not come in the afternoon. We communed with the vast assembly of the Saints after 
which their were ordained 3 Priest, one Confirmd one Child blessed. Elder Hedlock addressed 
the meeting at length upon temperal subjects followed by Elders Ward & Banks. 

Met again at 6 oclok in the evening. Elder W. Woodruff addressed a large audiance upon the rise 
& progress of the Church endowment of the Twelve, Death of the Prophet, organization of the 
Church in the U.S.A. Temple &c. I had the spirit of preaching & a good time & felt much 


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interested in my visit with the Scotch Saints in Glasgow. I spent the night at the council room. 

17th [] I recieved two letters. Blessed several & laid hands upon 10 sick. I blessed two sisters. 

One from Sterling who come 25 miles she said to get a blessing from an Apostle. Her name was 
Annabella McFarlin. Her sister's name was Jane D. Sinclair. After they were blessed Jane took 
her tipet off her neck & sent it to Mrs Woodruff. I took the rail road & rode to Coats Bridge & 
called upon Elder Mathew Carruthers at Whifflett. Distance 10. Held a counsil with the officers 
of that branch. 

18th In the morning I took a walk with Br 0 Corruthers to visit the Dunbyuan Iron works. We 
then walked to Ashley. Visited the brethren there. We then visited the extensive Calder Banks 
Mailable Iron works. I next visited the noted interesting & highly important Ardrie Muesium 
Collected attended and kept by Mr James Myrdock Antiquarian. After taking some refreshments 
with Mr Myrdock he showed us each appartment of the Muesuem. 

Among the many curiosities I had a view of the various coin for 1 ,000 years before Christ down 
to the Present day. Among the number were coin in the reign of the following persons containing 
their names on the coin and also their profile viz Pa0os 1000 B.C. Antonius, Vespersion Ceser, 
Servius, Christianna, Comodus, Posthumos, Artaxus, Tragin, Domitian Antonius, Gordian, 
Auralian, Hiradion and Claudius Cesar, & Pius. 

He had quite a Collection of natural History. Also three and a half tons of Precious Books as A 
library. I saw a pot of mettle containing the following words: 125 years after Christ I belong to 
St. Lawrence. 

I saw three gold & silver roman Crosses stolen by travelers at the Vatican at rome 300 years old. I 
saw a number of weapons of war & Paintings of ancient date. 

After visiting this Muesium we called at a brothers House. I lade hands upon 6 that were sick 
And blessed 20 persons that plead with me to let them have a blessing from under the hands of 
an Apostle. 

I preached in the evening to a crouded house & walked after meeting to Br Cruthers & spent the 
night & dreamed a rattle snake bit me on the ancle. I pulled him off squoze him to death & much 
poison came out of his mouth. The interpetation is when we arive at Edinborough I shall be 
opposed by (the presiding elder> for appointing Br Banks to preside over that branch of the 
Church & conference. Distance of the day 12. 

19th I rode to Glasgow. Met with Hedlock & Ward. We got two New York prophets which 
brought glorious News of the commencement of the fulness of the gospel at Tihata the south sea 
Islands & of the work in America. 

We took railrod & rode to Castle Carey. There took coach. Rode to Sterling. As we hove in sight 
of it among the mountains we had a splendid view of the noted sterling castle whare such 
tremendious battles were fought by Col Wallace, Bruce, Scotch, & English. Wallace took 


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Sterling Castles. 

We called upon Elder Daniel H. Sutherland in John Street. Took supper. Then Called upon Br 
JOHN GILLIES 76 years of age. He was the third man in the formation of ninety second rigment 
of the Islanders. Had been in constant service in the Army for 2 1 years. He embraced the fulness 
of the gospel on the 21 st of Aug 1842 in the 73d year of his age. I had an interesting 
conversation with him during the evening. There were present Elders Hedlock Ward Sutherland 
Sisters Mcfarlin Ross & Jane Stewart. Br Hedlock & myself spent the night at Br Gillies. 
Distance of the day 36 mi. 

March 20th 1845 I had the privilege 2 this plesant morning of walking 2 in company with Elders 
Hedlock & Ward & Gillies through each appartment of the selebrated Sterling Castle. As we 
passed up the road leading to the Castle we closely examined the Palace of Queen Mary of Scotts 
& the Kings Stables & went into them. While going through each appartment of the old castle we 
visited the armoury & old flags & saw many things of antiquity. 

We went through the Chapel of John Knox & closly examined the oak pulpet that he Preached in 
& from which he baptized Prince Henry. I brought away with me a small peace of the Pulpet of 
John Knox. I stood upon the exact spot of ground whare John Knox preached his first sennon, & 
saw the place in the old Church whare stood the twelve Apostles in stone figures which Knox 
destroyed as images before he commenced his sermon. 

I saw the habitation of the Earl of Lecester in AD 1634 & Cemens Hospital 1548 & the Place 
whare James the VI was Crowned. We had a piesant view of this Castle & the surrounding 
Country from its Hights. 

We returned to Br Sutherlands & dined. We spent the day Plesently. We had a full view of the 
river furth. 

} I wrote a letter from this Castle to [_ Mrs Woodruff & spent the day in Sterling. 6 miles. 

I lade hands upon Br John Gillies In his 76 year of his age & blessed him & ordained him an 
Elder. 

2 1st I spent the fore part of the day in Sterling visiting the Saints & at 2 oclock we Parted with 
them & took the steem boat on the river fourth & had a view of Sterling Castle as we retreated 
from it & the whole seenery on both sides of the river untill we arived at Edinborough was highly 
interesting. We had a hard storm of wind & rain which made a rough sea & some were sea sick. 
We arived in Edinborough at 7 oclok & called upon Henry McEwan the Presiding Elder of 
Edinborough branch. His Address is [ ]. 

After getting some refreshments we went to meeting & met with the Saints for the first time in 
Edinborough. Elder Hedlock spoke & was followed by Elder Ward & I followed him. This 
conference is in a divided state. Many asspiring spirits have been manifest for a length of time. I 
Pray God to Give us wisdom in seting in order this Conference that we may have power in the 


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midst of the Saints. 


We spent the night at Br H McEwan. Distance from Sterling to Edinborough 30. 

22d * This was an interesting day to our feelings in visiting the splended city of Edin-borough. 
We first visited Edinburgh castle. Went through each appartment of it the Armoury, Scotish 
Regalia, Crown room. We had a splended view of the city & surrounding Country for many 
miles from the castle. The rock itself composed of basalt is elevated 383 feet above the level of 
the sea & is accessable ownly on the eastern side all the others being nearly Perpendicular. 

The Castle is of great antiquity & has been held as a fortress from the earliest times. In 1093 it 
was besieged by Donald Bane Brother to king Malcolm. It was taken by the English 1296, 
retaken & demolished by Randolph 1313 Rebuilt by Edward third, surprised by Wm. Douglas 
1341, And by Albany 1482. Taken by the Regent from Queen Mary 1573 taken by Cromwell 
1650 And by Wm. Ill 1689. The scotish Regalia are kept in the castle. They were placed there in 
1707. They were discoverd in an oaken Chest in the Crown room in 1818. This is King Davids 
Crown the first King of Scotland. 

I also visited the celebrated peice of artillery Called Mons Meg cast at Mons in Flansders. It was 
used in the siege of Norham & after wards burst in firing a salute to the Duke of York Placed on 
the esplamade of the castle on his visit to the castle in 1682. It was forged in AD 1486 out of 
large bars of Iron. Its weight was 7 1/2 tons. Carried 268 Pound shot. The bore was 20 inches & 
length fifteen feet. 

After visiting the Armery & each apartment of the castle & taking splended views of the 
surrounding country we took our departure for other portions of the city. We saw the old house 
whare John Knox was born May 2d 1505 And Died Nov 24 1572. 

* We next visited the Palace of Holy rood. It occupies the site of an Abbey which was founded 
by David I in 1 128 & was one of the richest religious esstablishments in Scotland. In the Chapel 
were deposited the remains of David II, James II, Prince Arthur, third son of James IV, James V, 
Magdalen his Queen, Arthur, second son of James V, And Henry Damley. 

The ruins of what is now Called the Chapel Royal are worthy of a visit. The Picture gallerry 
which is 156 feet long by 27 1/2 wide and 20 feet high contains the portrats of the Scotish 
monarchs. In the Palace are preserved several relics of the unfortunate Queen Mary of Scotts. I 
saw her work box visited her bedroom saw her bed, & furniture the chair she occupied when 
married, visited her dresing room all of which was hung with the most splended ancient tapestry. 

I saw the hiding Place occupied by Lord Darnly & others when they murdered David Rizzio 
Mary's musician. I saw the Annoury Lord Darnley wore when he murdered him. I saw the Place 
whare he fell & the Stain of the blood yet remaining. I put Lord Darnly Steel head dress on which 
was waity. 

We visited each appartment of this Palace of Kings, the State room of George the 4th & his 


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Throne, his Painting in his highland Dress by David Wilkey. I saw the bones of the Kings in the 
vault piled up to gether. Cornwell took away their coffins & left their bones scattered upon the 
ground. I saw A peace of oak containing the anns of Scotland Cut out in AD 1 128 being 717 
years of age & in a good state of preservation. 

After visiting each appartment of the palace we all Called upon one of the brethren & took 
Dinner, after which we visited other portions of the City. Sir Walter Scotts Monument is a 
splendid specimin of art. We saw the Scotch Gientess as we passed along. I spent the night with 
Br Henry McEwan No 2 High Rigs. Distance of the day 12 m. 

[23] 


Edinborough Conference 

Met in Edinborough on Sunday 23d March AD 1845. Their being present one of the Twelve & 3 
High Priest, 8 Elders, 16 Priest & 4 Teachers. R Hedlock was Chosen President Priest Braley 
Clerk. 

Conference opened by singing & Prayer After which there were eleven branches represented in 
the Edinborough Conference containing 409 members 13 Elders, 22 Priest 8 Teachers 1 Deacons 
& 9 Baptized. The morning was taken up in teaching Principls. 

Met in the afternoon. Partook of the Sacrament After which Elder Banks was appointed the 
Presiding Elder over the Edinborough branch & Conference Br H McEwen over two or three 
branches under Brother Banks. W. Woodruff Preached in the evening to an attentive 
congregation. I spent the night at No. 2 High Rigs. 

24th * A company of young men called the Nauvoo Legion led us out to see the city, & they led 
us to the vary top of the high clift called Arthurs Seat, the Highest peak of rocks any whare in 
this region of Country. A good deal of the way up was almost perpendicular. I was infonned that 
Elder O Pratt while esstablishing the branch in Edinborough freequented the top of this rock as a 
place of retirement & meditation. From this rock we had a full view of the whole City of 
Edinborough & the surrounding Country for many miles, which was a sublime view. 

1 was quite unwell with a severe Cold in the morning & 1 was quite weary in reaching the top of 
this seat, as was the case with most of the brethren. 

After we had taken a sufficient view of the surrounding country we again desended into the city. 
Took Dinner After which we visited several of the Saints, And in the evening 1 attended a 
council of officers. Was vary hoarse. Had a sore throat. Yet 1 addressed the Elders at some 
length. 

At the close of the meeting A man holding the office of a priest but had tried to Apostitize for a 
long time arose & opposed the work. 1 answered his questions. He wished to leave the Church & 
we wished to have him & so he was cut off. I spent the night at 2 High Riggs. Distance 10 m. 


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25th We Parted with the Saints in Edinborough. Took cars. Rode to Glasgow. Spent 3 hours in 
the place. Parted with the Saints there & took rail road & rode to Greenock. There took steem 
boat for Liverpool in company with Br Hedlock. We had left Br Ward in Edinborough by 
accident. I spent the night on board of the boat And a sick disagreeable night it was. We arived in 
Liverpool next morning. Distance from Edinborough 330. 

26th [] I arived in Liverpool about 9 oclok this morning sick & weary. Spent a few moments in 
the office. I recieved several Times & Seasons & Neighbor & New York Prophet Also one letter 
from Elder G. A. Smith from Nauvoo. I spent the day looking them over & at night went to bed 
sick. 2 m. 

27 Arose in the morning sick. Was not able to get to the office. Wrote some in my Journal. 

28th I am still unwell but walked to the office & spent a part of the day. 4. 

29th [] I recieved one letter & spent most of the day in the office. 

30 Sunday Liverpool Conference met in the Music Hall at Half past 10 oclock in the morning 
There being present one of the Twelve 4 High Priest 18 Elders 13 Priest, & 8 Teachers. 

Elder Joseph A. Stratton was appointed President Elder James L Cantwell Clerk. 

Conference was opened by singing & Prayer After which there were 12 Branches represented in 
the Liverpool Conference Containing 676 members, 30 Elders 39 Priest 21 Teachers 10 Deacons 

3 1 Baptized. 

The Standing of the various branches was represented in the morning. In the afternoon the 
Sacrament was administered, & I blessed 2 Children ordained one Priest & one Deacon with Br 
Clark. In the evening the Joint Stock Company was spoken of. I addressed the Saints for more 
than an hour free & untrammelled. Had good liberty. Br Brown & Wilson was chosen delagates 
to the general Conference. 6 miles. 

3 1th [] } } I recieved 2 letters. I wrote one letter to an elder in a branch whare they were 
persecuted. I wrote one letter to a brother in the Potteries, Also a letter to Br Wm. Davis Tailor 
South Wales. 4 miles. 


April 

April 1st 4 1 recieved 2 letters & wrote one large sheet to Elder Brigham Young. I had a visit 
from Elders Milton Holmes & James D Ross came to Pay me a visit. I was glad to see them. 
They spent the day & night with me. 4 m. 

2d [] f I recieved 2 letters & wrote one Letter to Br Elias Smith & G. A. Smith. Br Holmes spent 
the night with me. 4 m. 


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3d I 1 Rumors of wars are again herd through the land as the American government have annexed 
Texas to the United States & the rumor now is that there is a prospect of England Joining Mexico 
in a war with the United States. This government have stop the steem ship that was to go out on 
the 4th until further orders. This created quite an excitement among the captains of the American 
Ships, but the probable detention is to send expresses to the british minister to Washington. I 
mailed my letter to day to B. Young. [] I recieved one letter. 4 m. 

4th I took cars in the morning in company with Mrs Woodruff & rode to Manchester. Was met at 
the rail road by Elders Holmes Stratten & Ross. I took up my abode with John Druce No 6 
Sandford street Broughton road Salford. I had an interview with a number of the Saints. Distance 
30 m. 

5th I spent the day in Manchester. Had an interview with many Elders as delegates from the 
various Conferences. Among the numbers was Elders Davis from London, Jones from Wales, & 
many others. 

April 6th AD 1845 


Manchester Conference 

The yearly Conference of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints met at the Hall of 
Science in Camfield Manchester on the 6th Day of April to represent the various Conferences 
throughout the various Portions of the British Dominions. A large assembly of Saints & friends 
came to gether at an early hour. 

Elder Wilford Woodruff was called to the Chair attended by his Councellors Reuben Hedlock & 
Thomas Ward, Wm. Walker & J. B. Mynell Appointed Clerks. Their being present at the 
organization W. Woodruff of the quorum of the Twelve Hedlock & Ward Councellors [ ] High 

Priest [ ] Seventies [ ] Elders [ ] Priest [ ] Teachers and [ ] Deacons. Conference 

opened by prayer by the President. A Hymn was sung. 

The President Called upon the delegates to represent the various Conferences throughout the 
British dominions which occupied the forenoon & the following is the sum total represented of 
the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints throughout England, Ireland Scotland & Wales 
viz. [ ] conferences embracing [ ] branches Containing [ ] Members including [ ] 

High Priest [ ] Elders [ ] Priest [ ] Teachers & [ ] Decons. 

There had been [ ] Baptized during the last year. This was the largest representation ever given 

in any Conference in England. The Afternoon was occupied by the delegates in representing the 
standing & situation of each conference. The House was filled with a large audience. The 
evening was spent in the same way. 

At the close of the evening I occupyed a few moments in representing my conference which 
consisted of the United States of America containing one quorum of the Twelve, one high 


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Council, 300 High Priest 1,050 of the Seventies, 5,000 Elders And about the same number of 
Priest Teachers & Deacons And about one hundred thousand members including the officers And 
generally in vary good standing, had built two or three towns, & one city with a population of 
about 15,000 souls had built two Temples & laid the foundation of another, had suffered much 
Persecution & 50 or more had sealed their testimony with their lives, but were in a good State of 
prosperity. Conference Adjourned untill to morrow at 10 oclok. 

April 7th Conference assembled this morning At Mr Haywood’s room at the usual place of 
Meeting at 10 oclock according to adjournment. Meeting opened by singing & Prayers. The first 
business Presented before the Conference for Consideration was the Joint Stock Company. A 
committy of ten was chosen to withdraw from the body & form an instriment of writing as a 
constitution for the society to be governed by. The comittee withdrew & sat in Council most of 
the time for 24 hours & while that was going on the President & Council of the Conference 
continued their business through the day, getting in order the conferences, Making such changes 
of Elders as was necessary, & settling difficulties &c &c which occupied the day. 

8th Conference assembled at 10 oclock & opened by Prayer & Singing After which the committy 
on the Joint Stock Company came forward to report the result of their deliberations & Presented 
the instrument of writing they had Drawn up which was red by Mr Brown before the meeting. It 
was then redd the second time article by article, And all had the privilege of making such 
remarks upon it as they saw fit & move such amendments as was deemed necessary. After it 
went through the scrutiny of the Conference A vote was Called upon each article seperately & it 
Passed with a unanimous vote, which occupied the whole day. 

9th The Conference assembled at 10 oclok. The constitution of the Joint Stock Co. was brought 
up again this morning to be finished. It was organized with a President, Secretary, Treasurer, And 
15 Directers. Its capital was to be £30,000 Pounds divided into 60,000 shares at 10/ each, its 
object to esstablish manufacturery in Nauvoo or other parts of America, to enter into those 
branches of business that would require the least capitol employ the most hands & bring the 
greatest Profit. (The whole organization is published in the 1 1 No of the 5 vol of the Mil Star.) 

After this business was finished which I trust is laying the foundation for much good Elders 
Elisha H Davis & Elijah F. Sheets were appointed by the Conference to be ordained into the 
quorum of the Seventies & Br T. D. Brown to be ordained an Elder. They were ordained under 
the hands of Elders Woodruff Ward & Clark After which the Conference adjourned Sine Die 
After sitting three days and a half & transacting more business than ever was transacted before in 
one conference of the Latter Day Saints in the British Dominions. For further Particulars see the 
Star of April 1845. 

Wilford Woodruff President 

Thomas Ward 

J B Meynell Clerks 

I never attended a Conference whare my mind was more nerved up continually upon business 


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than During the three days & a half on this occasion. Much business was done. I felt weary with 
my labour at the close. I made it my home with my family during the conference at John Druce 
No 6 Sandford st. Broughton Road Salford. 

April 10th I spent the day in company with the American Elders with whom I had been sitting in 
conference with. I enjoyed myself well with them although I was fatiegued with the labours of 
the conference. 

1 1th I went through A Manchester Gotten Factory with some of the Saints. 

12th In Company with Elders Holmes, Davis, Ross, & others I went to Newton heath & spent the 
afternoon with Br Armstrong. It was a rainy Day. Mrs Woodruff was with me. 6 miles. 

I spent the night with Br Sheldon. G. A. Smith was well acquainted with him. 

13th Sunday In Company with Sisters Woodruff Shelden, Annstrong, & Elder Holmes I took the 
rail cars rode to Oldham & met with the Saints in that Place. Preached in the forenoon. Was 
follow[ed] by Br Holmes. He Preached in the Afternoon. I followed him in the evening. I took 
cars & returned to Manchester with the company. We attended meeting in Manchester. Herd 
Elder Mynell Preach. Spent the night with Br Druce. 14. 

14th In company with Brs Barton Clark Holmes & Sisters Woodruff Clark Druce & Shelden we 
went through a Print Factory & saw how they make Calico by both block & sillinder. It was a 
rainy day. 8 miles. 

15th I visited a number of Saints during the day. Dined with Br George Hewett 54 Red Bank 
Manchester. Took tea with Sister Holebrook. Took rail cars at 6 oclok & rode with my family to 
Liverpool. Distance of the day 40 m. 

April 16th (/ ^)(10 P) I went to the office & Carried 40. which I had recieved at the conference 
for the Covenants, Temple & Emegration. On my arival there I recieved 4 Letters one from 
President Young, one from Elder P. P. Pratt one from Father Carter, & one from Glasgow. The 
three letters from America were full of interest. Br Young speaks of the Progress of the Temple 
& endowment & affairs in Nauvoo. Elder Fordham Brannan & Pratt all write in one letter 
containing good news. Father Carter & Sister Foss both write in one letter. They state that Sister 
Foss family are all well though several of them lay at the Point of Death when we left. Our Child 
Phebe Amelia is well. It is the first letter we have recieved from them since we left New York. 

I also recieved 10 Papers 6 from Nauvoo & 4 from New York. 4 miles. 

17th Wrote some in my journal & went to the office. } I wrote three Letters one to M. Holmes 
one to Thomas Smith, one to Sister in Edinboro. 

18th } I wrote one letter to H. Clark one to Wm. Smith. Spent the day at the office. 4. 

(19th) } ^ I wrote 6 American letters one to Father Carter one to Father Woodruff one to Ilus F. 


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Carter one to P. P. Pratt one to Elias Smith (T) at Nauvoo the Key of Illinois And } I wrote 2 to 
Brethren here to Wm. Allen & Wm. Speakman. I forwarded the America Letters to be mailed at 
Boston by a Packet. 

20th I attended meeting in Liverpool Branch. Herd Br Davis Preach in the morning Br Mynell in 
the evening. Had a good day. Piesant time. Dined with Br Brown. [.] 

April 21st A piesant Day. I spent my time at the office. I wrote a letter to } Br Phelps of Boston 
one to H Clark one to John Hallady, one to Wilkinson making 4 in all. 

In the evening I attended a meeting at the Music Hall (whare the Saints hold their meetings) 
Appointed by the ministers of the Church of England for the Purpose of opposing the Maynooth 
Grant which is now under discussion in Parliament. The whole Country is under excitement. The 
Maynooth Grant is to appropriate £30,000 pounds anually to endow a Roman Catholic College to 
educate Catholic Priest. This has created alann throughout the Protestant Churches of England. 

The house on this occasion was crouded to overflowing & thousands who Could not get in. The 
celebrated Rev Hugh M. Neile was chairman of the Meeting. Much excitement was manifest on 
the occasion. The speakers considered Parliament was betraying the country & strikeing a death 
blow at the three hundred years of refermation. They seemed to be alarmed at the signs of the 
times And for one I could see they were big with events that the time had commenced for the 
beginning of those tremendious events which have been Prophesyed of by the Ancient Prophets 
concerning those things which must come to Pass in the last days among the Gentile Nations. 
Many addresses were made & resolutions fonned. The meeting closed at half past 10 oclk. I 
walked home alone meditating upon the awful state of the human family in this generation. * 6 
m. 

22d I spent the day at the office. Saw hand Bills posted up in the streets against the Mynooth 
Grant. 4 m. 

23d ? T I spent the day at the office. I 

looked over Elder Lorenzo D. Barnes Trunk. I examined his corressponding letters from Miss 
Susan Conrad and other friends. I carefully filed them all with his own compositions & Journals 
Patriarchal Blessings &c Also A dozen or more Peaces of Choice Coin of ancient Date & 
characters which he probably Collected for the British Museum Nauvoo Museum. Also one 
weight as a standard for sovreigns and his gold finger ring all of which I carefully put in a 
package & sealed it with wax & stamped it with a large Masonic Stamp & wrote upon the out 
side of it stating what it Contained & Directed it to the Presidency of the Church in Nauvoo. 

I also Packed into his trunk one carpet bag, one splended Buffalo robe worked with Indian Beads, 
one overcoat, 2 pair of Pants, A Dress coat, several vests, three stocks, handkerchiefs, shirts, 
bosoms, collars spencers, gloves, 2 cases of raisers, two Pocket Books containing deeds of land, 
& other papers one crown in the small Pocket Book 5/ for the Museum & a variety of other 


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things all of which was carefully Packed into his trunk to be sent to Nauvoo when an opportunity 
offers. 4 mil. 

After I retired to rest at night I fell asleep And had the following dream: I was in company with a 
number of the Twelve & other Brethren. I thought I had Just returned to Nauvoo from my 
English mission. We met with Br Joseph Smith the Prophet. I shook hands with him And asked 
him if he & his family were well. He said they were. I Thought the endowment had been given & 
he was counciling us about taking a mission abroad some portion of the time. While talkinghe sat 
in a Chair & leaned upon my breast. He said he was going to take a mission to India & pointed 
out the man to go with him but I cannot now call him by name. G. A. Smith asked liberty of 
Joseph to become better acquainted with me or to spend more time with me that we might be 
prepared to take a mission together. It was granted him. O Pratt had his mission appointed I do 
not know whare. Lyman Wight was spoken of. Do not recollect what was said. We had an 
interesting time together. All seemed happy to once more see the Prophet. 

24th I spent the day at the office. 4 m. 

25th I spent this day at the office. 4 m. 

26th } I sent Elder E. F. Sheets A letter containing the Epitah to be put on Elder Lorenzo D. 
Barnes Grave which are as follows: In Memory of Lorenzo D. Bames who Died on the 20th of 
December 1842 Aged 30 years. He was a Native of the United States An Elder in the Church of 
Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, A member of the High Priest quorum, And Also of Zions 
Camp in AD 1834. And the first gospel Messenger from Nauvoo who has found a grave in a 
foreign land. 

Sleep on Lorenzo but ere long from this 

The conquered tomb shall yield her Captive pray. 

Then with thy quorum shalt thou reign in bliss 
As King and Priest for an Eternal Day. 

I rode in the evening in company with Br James Ferguson to Newton & spent the Night with Br 
John Nuttall. Distance 16. 

27th Sunday I held three meetings during the day & evening with the Newton branch of the 
Church & had an interesting time. I dined with Br James Simpkins. Our sacrament meeting in the 
Afternoon was held at the house of Elder Charles Simpkins. I spent the night with Br Nuttall. 2. 

28th \ * I spent this day vary plesently in visiting various portions of Newton. In company with 
several friends I first visited the Muspratt Vitriol works. Alkilie & white Ash & crystallizing are 
each carried on in their branches. It is one of the most lucrative branches of business in the 
world, though it is vary disagreeable business. The fires are fed with brimstone which is vary 
disagreeable to workman. The smoke of the whole works is carried off in the air through a 
Chimney made of brick 138 feet in circumferance & 396 feet high And often the air is so 
pregnated with suplphurious matter at a great distance from the works in the direction that the 


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smoke goes that it is with difficulty that one can breathe. 

After leaving these works I visited each appartment of the Newton Engine Factory whare a large 
Number of Engines are made for the rail road. It is A heavy work many hands employed & a 
great quantity of mashinery in operation. We have several Brethren at work there who can carry 
on the business of Engine Making in evry branch of it. 

After leaving this esstablishment I walked several miles through a vary plesant scenery 
surrounded with green fields hedges trees & gardens. I visited the Church containing A Stone Pig 
on the side of the building with a stone tied to his neck. The Church is several hundred years of 
age. The following tradition is told about the Pig: That the materials for the Church was drawn to 
another place quite a distance from whare the Church now stands And a Pig came along & took a 
stone in his mouth & carryed it squeeling along & laid it down whare the Church now stands. 

And the People taking it as an omen that they should build the church there; And they did so. 

I returned from my walk to Br Nuttall's. Laid hands upon his sick Child. I had Prayers with the 
Saints & took my departure for Liverpool on the rail road. We had a wet evening. Distance of the 
day 20 m. 

29th [] * I recieved 2 Letters one from P McCuen & the other from the Sheffield conference. I 
wrote one to Br M. Holmes. I spent most of the day at the office. It was a rainy gloomy day & 
night. 4. 

30th I spent the day at the office Reading law. I called at the large room which we have rented for 
three years in Standleys Buildings. It is rented in Elder Hedlocks name. The room is about 75 by 
42 feet. He is now petitioning it of by brick walls. 4. 

May 

May 1st* I wrote a lengthy letter for the Times & Seasons directed to Elder Taylor. My letter 
contained a full account of the labours sickness and Death of the worthy Elder Lorenzo D. Bames 
A long extract from my Journal, & the full inscription upon his tomb stone. 

May 2d I left Liverpool on the rail road & rode to Preston & spent the day with Elder Hardy in 
visiting the Brethren. I took Breakfast with Capt Willis 136 victoria st And Dinner with Sister 
Creer at 101 Bedford street. I took tea with Elder John Holsal Taylor North Road. I called upon 
Br Newsom's London Road. I met with the Council in the evening & spent the night at Capt 
Willis with Br Hardy. Distance of the day 35. 

3d I took coach with Br Hardy & rode to Blackburn & called upon Elder John Hartley. We soon 
had an interview with Elder Wm. Speakman who went with us through the town. We visited 
their room which they had fitted up & sent for me to come & open it. Their seemed to be some 
misunderstanding between the Preston Singers & the Blackburn Saints But I trust it will be 
settled amicably. 


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I took tea with Br Hartley. Sister Hartley presented us with a good dish of Cockels. Elder Hardy 
returned to Preston in the evening. Distance 9 miles. I spent the day & night at Br Hartleys. 

4th * I met with the Saints in Blackburn in their new room this Sunday morning. I Preached in 
the fore part of the day Elder Speakman in the afternoon & I again in the evening. We had a full 
house. I spent the night at Br John Hartley. 2 m. 

5th * I walked in company with Br Speakman to Whalley at which Place we visited each 
appartment of the old Abbey the largest one I ever visited. It coverd several acres of ground & 
nearly all in ruins except a small portion of it which is inhabited by a few families. It was 800 
years old. It was built in AD [1000]. Distance of the day 12 m. 

6th } I wrote 2 letters one to Mrs Woodruff one to Br Ward. I walked with Br Speakman ? to 
stoneyhurst and visited each Appartment of the Jesuits College which was the ownly collage of 
the kind in England. We visited each appartment of the Paintings of Christ upon the cross & 
under various circumstances in life & the virgin Mary & many Saints which were splended 
paintings [of] the Apostles & c. We visited each Appartment of their library which was vary 
extensive. Many vary ancient writings & parchments. We saw Queen Marys Prayer Book & A 
copy of St Paul's Epistles 1,000 years old. We visited their Museum, studies lodgings chapels &c, 
containing many curiosities, many figures of Christ on the cross sculptured out of fine marble. 
Some not more than 5 inches in length cost £700 or $3,500 dollars. 

We visited the chapel for the boys that they were educating, & also the main Chapel. One 
window in it containing the paintings on it of the Twelve Apostles cost £2,000 or $10,000 
dollars. The candle sticks, crosses, organ, & all furniture were vary rich. We visited each 
appartment of the garden which was splendid all divided into various appart-ments by walls 
formed entirely of the Ewe tree about 4 feet thick 12 feet high & from 40 to 200 feet long as the 
case required in the appartments & as strait & smooth as a plaster wall. 

After visting each appartment of this noted Collage we walked to Waddington. I here visited the 
Hospital or Alms houses built and dedicated by Sir Robert Parker in 1700 to the poor widows of 
the Parish. There was 26 Dwellings & a small garden to each. Their was An aged widow in each 
appartment. The youngest was 60 years of age & the oldest was 87 years. They appeared quite 
Comfortable. We spent the night with Mr Cottom. 10 miles. 

7th We walked to Clithero then to Chatburn. I walked through the street that the Apostle Heber 
Kimball walked through with his hat off & blessed the place. I felt the spirit of God rest upon me 
while walking over the Same road. 

I Called upon Br Win. Hall. Sister Hall was beaking oat cake crack & rattle. I flung some & done 
well. I then called upon Br John Chatburn. He showed me Jacobs Staff that grew in his garden. It 
removed from garden to garden. It seldom stayed more than two years in a place. 

I Called upon Sister Elizabeth Parkinson the lodging place of the Saints. She weaves 30 yards of 


Page340 




cotton cloth per day with a hand loom at 1/2 per 30 yards. We next went to Downham. Called 
upon Father Richard Smithies the noted fisherman. We returned to Chatburn & spent the night. 7 
miles. 

8th * I went fishing with Father Richard Smithies in the river ribble. He is 70 years of age & is 
considerd the greatest fisherman in the country. He fishes with the fly which is the greatest art in 
fishing ever introduced. His fish pole or rod was about 14 feet long sum thing like cane vary 
slender & delecate. His long fine line made of hair & cat gut was wound around a small brass 
wheel with a little crank to it fastend to the but end of the pole. The line then runs through half a 
dozen brass rings or ilet holes fastend at a sutible distance along on the rod to the small end of it. 
One the end of the fine fish line is fastend 5 or 6 arti-fishal flies about 2 feet apart. These are 
upon a small cat gut almost as small as a single hair. 25 or 30 feet of the line is unwond from the 
reel at the but of the rod running through the rings to the point. The line is then flung upon the 
water the same as though it was tied at the end of the rod & the flies with a hook concealed in 
each swims down the stream. The trout instantly take it considering it the natural fly. They are 
hooked as soon as they strike it if they are large trout & run. They of their own accord unwind as 
much line as they want from the reel at the but of the pole or rod. 

The fisherman does not pull the fish out of water on the bank by the pole but worries the fish in 
the water with the line untill he will not struggle. Then he draws him up to the shore by the line if 
he stands on the bank or to him if he stands in the water. He then takes a small hand net with a 
light pole 4 or 6 feet puts it under the fish & takes him vary deliberately out of the water. 

Father Smithies caught 7 trout & two Cheven in this way while we were with him. It was the first 
time I had seen the fly used in my life in the way of fishing. I was delighted with it the rod & line 
was so light & flung with such skill & dexterity that the trout are beguiled & whare ever they are 
are generally taken. The fisherman has flies different for almost ever month calculated to imitate 
the flies that float upon the water at the time they fish. These flies are made of the feathers of 
birds some of various Colors. The trout will often take them before the natural fly. I was much 
gratifyed with this days fishing. 

We returned to Chatburn & Sister Parkinson cooked the trout for us which made a good meal. 

We spent the night at Mr Parkinson. 6 m. 

9th * I spent the day at Clithore at Sister Duckworth copying a work from an account of the 5 
first degrees upon Masonery. 

10th I visited the Clithero Castle which had been a strong hold in its day. I visited various parts 
of Clithero & spent the night with Br Speakman & Sister Duckworths. 3. 

1 1th ? Sunday O! Clithero Conference & lovely Saints. I met with the Saints in the capacity of a 
quarterly Conference. I took a walk in the morning with Br Speakman & Sisters Mary Ann & 
Mary Douglass towards Pendle Hill to take the morning air which was a plesant among the green 
fields & hedges groves &c. On our return we went to conference. 


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Elder Speakman was called to the preside. The Churches was represented. Some alterations 
made. I ordained 1 Elder 2 Priest 3 Teachers & 3 Deacons. I gave some instruction & Adjumed 
untill afternoon. 

Met in the Afternoon. I blessed the bread & wine & it was administered to the Saints after which 
the time was taking up by the Brethren & sisters in bearing testimony of the work of God, & the 
Power of God rested upon the Congregation untill it melted us into tears. This is the Conference 
that Br Kimball speaks of in his Journal. I never saw a more lovely people in my travels in the 
vineyard. They are like angels innocent as lambs & like Children. I did not wonder Elder Kimball 
cried when he left them for I was so over whelmed with the spirit & power of God & simplicity 
of the people I could scearcely speak. 

I blessed one lovely child of Br & Sister Martha Hartley. I kissed it when I gave it to its mother. 
Many were in tears, many bore their testimony of the work of God & others desired it if their had 
been time. It was truly an interesting time. We adjourned untill 6 oclock. 

Met according to adjournment & I Preached to the People during the evening. I had a good time. 

I cannot express my feelings while among this people. The hard shake of the hand accompanied 
by the flowing tears bespoke the feelings of the heart as I parted with them at the dismissal of the 
meeting. I spent the night at Sister Duckworth's. I had a severe cold & paine in the head. 

12th I parted with the lovely Saints in Clith-ero took Coach rode to Blackbom. From thence to 
Preston whare I had the happy privilege of meeting with Elders Holmes & Hardy. I met the 
Saints in Preston & Preached to a full house. Was followed by Elders Holmes. I spoke from the 
CI1 Psalm. We had a good time. I spent the night with Elders Holmes & Hardy at Capt Willes. I 
had a severe Cold & pain in the head during the night. Distance 25. 

This being the Whitson week all business was suspended & the people in the streets having a 
Holly day & at night their was so many drunk in the street & on the side walk that it was with 
difficulty for a sober man to go along without being run against. 

13 □ I returned to Liverpool on the rail road & recieved 3 letters one from J. D. Ross one from 
Dan Jones & one from Br Sheets. I also recieved one Paper from Nauvoo. I returned to my family 
& found them well. Was glad to get home again. 

14th [] I recieved 2 letter one from G. A. Smith & one from Br W. Dearden. I wrote 3 letters one 
to Br Thomas Smith of Bath & suspended him from his office, one to the Bath Saints & } one to 
another Brother. 

15 } I wrote a letter to Br Stratten requesting him to return & take charge of the Bath conference. 

I obtained 3 Prophets from NY all bearing good News. A letter came from Nauvoo to Br Clark. 
We sent it to him with his Papers. 

44th * I left my family & friends in Liverpool & took the Steemer Victorie for Carlisle at 4 


Page342 




oclock in the afternoon. As soon as we went out of the dock I discoverd the boat was newly 
Painted so that one could not sit down in any place from the stem to the stern of the boat without 
carrying the paint with him the whole bigness of the place he sat in or touched. And as the sea 
began to be rough I found it necessary to get some place to lie down & as the last & ownly resort 
I paid 2/ shillings for the use of a bunk among the sailors on the fore castle over the bow for the 
night. 

I went below to take my bed among the Sailors which was a small confined place. I had no 
sooner gone below than I was inveloped in a Stench the most Horrid of any thing I ever 
experianced. It arose from the cargo which consisted of goano A kind of dung dug out of the 
earth brought to this country to put on to land. It is supposed to have origionally been birds dung 
but the worst die pot I ever saw was plesant in comparrison to this stench. I lay down but my 
stomach was immediately so filled with the stench that it made me as sick as Death. 

I immediately commenced vomiting which continued for five hours. At times I gaged upon an 
empty stomach untill I strained myself to such a degree that blood run out of my nose almost a 
stream. I suffered much through the night & the sailors smoked their pipes & filled the hole with 
tobaco smoke. Though this was nacious to me it was much better than the stink that arose from 
the cargo. And in addition to this the seas were breaking fore & aft over the boat & the boat 
pitching badly. This with breathing the sent of the paint guano & tobaco smoke made me vomit 
to that degree that my sufferings were great & I thought it the most horrid night I ever spent on 
the water. 

In the morning I crawled out into the air on deck but felt vary week & feeble. Could scarcely 
walk. Distance to Port Carlisle 190 miles. 

16th We arived at Port Carlisle at 9 oclock crossed the ferry took canal boat rode to Carlisle. I 
there met with Elders Allen & Hall who accompanied me to Mrs Elizabeth Forrester No 8 Russel 
street, Batcher Gate Carlisle. I got some refreshment & lay down several hours but was weak & 
sick to my stomach. Distance 16 miles. 

17th } I wrote 2 letters one to Thomas Ward one to Mrs Woodruff. I had an interview with Elder 
Wm. Kent & took a walk with him & Br Allen through the town of Carlisle. It was anciently 
walled in with a high strong wall. Most of it was taken down in building the city. We walked 
upon some portion of the walls that was standing. 

We visited the old St Marys Church & Abbey about eleven hundred years of age. Portions of the 
Church was the old ancient building itself while the remainder had been repaired. We also visited 
the Carlisle Castle, which was interesting & gave us a fair view of the Surrounding country. 

Among other things we visited the valuable Painting at Mr Charles Thurnum Stationers Shop 
executed by Edward Rancier which presents A Blacksmith in the act of shoeing a bay horse with 
a Donkey by his side and dog sitting upon the floor with his tool box Anvil tools &c scatter 
about. It is con-siderd the best painting known in existance. It so near resembals life that one 


Page343 




could hardly believe it to be painting. £5,000 five thousand pounds have freequently been offered 
for it, & refused. It could scarcely be bought for money. They sell the engravings for £5 pounds 
each. It is supposed that no Artist living could draw such a painting except Rancier. I returned to 
Br Bells & spent some time in writing. 

In the evening I met in council with the officers & some of the other members in a dirty weavers 
shop. I addressed them for about an hour & had a good time. I had to teach them principle. I 
spent the night at Br Bells. Distance of the day 5 mil. 

May 18th The Carlisle Conference met for the first time in about four years on this 18th Day of 
May 1845 Sunday morning at 10 oclock in the Reca-bites lodge room Castle Street Carlisle. As it 
was sumthing of a special Conference Elder Woodruff was called to the Chair And Joseph 
Maughen Clerk. Their being present 1 of the Twelve, 8 Elders 9 Priest, 3 Teachers & 2 Deacons. 
The representation of the branches was then Called for which was as follows: 





E 

P 

T 

D 

Carlisle Rep 

John Barker 

78 M 

4 

6 

3 

2 

Brampton " 

John Harding 24 

2 

2 

1 



Alston 

Joseph Maughen 

23 

3 

3 

1 


New Castle 

By Letter 

28 

1 

4 

2 


Sunderland 


Elder 

Kent 

7 

1 

2 

Dunfries 3 River Green 2 

5 







165 

11 

17 

7 

2 


John Barker surrendered the Presidency of the Carlisle branch & Elder Robert Stoddart 
Appointed in his stead as the president of that branch. The Conference was addressed upon the 
order & govennent of the Church of Jesus Christ by the President, which Closed the meeting in 
the fore noon. 

Met in the Afternoon. Sacrament was administered. The time was then taken up by the members 
of the Church & we had a good time. The spirit of the Lord was with us. 

We met again in the evening And a crouded house was addressed by the President upon the 
origin, rise & progress of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, which Closed the 
Conference & business of the day. 

W. Woodruff President 
Joseph Maughen Clerk 

19th I walked with Br Allen & Walker 10 miles to a creek to fishing trout & salmon with the fly. 
They Caught three in about 5 minutes when an officer Came & infonned them it was against the 
law & if they continued to fish they would be under £5 pounds fine. So we all left the ground & 
returned home & got our walk for our pains & three small salmon fry ie young salmon weigh 


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about one ounce each. We had them fryed for our dinner & I eat 2 of them. We then walked back 
to Carlisle] & I was weary & spent the night at Br Bells. 20 miles. 

20th I 1 1 had a vary sick day with a diarrhea & sickness of the stomach. I was abed most of the 
day. 

I had an appointment in the evening for Preaching. Was not able to attend. Elder Hall Preached. 3 
offered themselves for Baptism. 

21st I parted with the Saints at Carlisle & in Company with Elders Allen & Hall returned to 
Liverpool by water on board of the Steemer Victoria. It had on board 400 sheep some horses & 
cattle which covered the deck nearly all over; notwithstanding the boat was crouded the sailors 
found a spot large enough to fight on. Adout a dozen got at it which left many bloody noses & 
sore heads. We had a vary good passage. I was not sick. I arived home at my house in Liverpool 
about midnight & spent the night with my family. Distance 136 miles. 

May 22 [] } I recieved three letters & wrote 4 letters one to H. Clark M. Holmes L Hart, & a 
woman enquiring about her son. 4. 

23d } } I wrote 5 letters to H. C. Kimball G. A. Smith J. M. Grant, E. H. Davis & John Banks. I 
sent the American Letters by A Friend going to Philadelphia. 4. 

24th } I wrote a letter to Br Dwight Webster which I forwarded with the other America Letters. 4. 

/This 7th day morning at 6 oclock the last <cap> stone was laid on the Temple of the Lord in 
Nauvoo with shouts of grace unto it. Glory to God in the Hiest. The Lord finished his work on 
the 7th day & rested. So may the Saints./ 

25th Sunday I went over the water to Cheshire to meet with the small branch of the Church in 
that Place. I administered the sacrament in the afternoon & Preached in the evening & had a good 
time with the Saints & returned home. Distance 12. 

26 [] I recieved one Letter & one Prophet. 4. 

27 I wrote A peace for the Star headed A Short tour through the Clitheroe & Carlisle 
conferences. 4. 

28th I spent the day at the office. 4. 

29th [] } I reeleyed 4 letters one from Holmes Clark Davis & Charles Miller. I wrote 2 letters one 
to Holmes one to Davis. 

In the evening I went to the seashore with Elder Stratton to Baptize. On the way we saw a man 
run over a child with a waggon. Their was 500 people gatherd around it in as many minutes. 

They thought the child was killed but it soon revived. The man was taken up by the policee, & 
fined for being drunk & carelessness. 


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When we arived the water the tide was out. We got three cars to take the candidates down into 
the water and Elder Stratten went down into the sea and baptized 12 persons. We had a plesant 
and interesting time. Many of the Saints were present & numbers of the world & the whole 
company left the beach singing by the way. I took supper with Br Hall. Distance 6 m. 

30th I went in company with Elder Stratton to take a walk. We walked through every appartment 
of Princes Park fitted up in a vary neat & expensive style with almost evry description of 
shrubery & flowers with a pond of water in the centre containing a variety of fish & some swan. 
Their is a Chiness bridge over the water & A small woodden house with a harbor under it for 
small boats. 1 portion of the garden Is entirly shut up from the Public untill her Majesty Queen 
Victoria shall walk through it. We had a fair view of it in our walks. It was decorated with sharp 
stones set up in end like mounds intersected with flowers. 

We left this plesant walk & returned home through the Semetry the place of burying the dead, 
which was through a deep valley all decorated with flours & shrubery. The tombs in the side of 
the mountain were dug out of the solid rock. 

After returning to the city I took tea at Br Caines & attended council with the officers of the 
Liverpool Branch & had a good time. Distance 10 m. 

3 1st I walked out with Mrs Woodruff & done some shoping & went to the office. 4 m. 

June 

June 1st Sunday I Preached to the Saints in the morning, in Liverpool confirmed 12 in the 
afternoon, And blessed 2 children & administered to 2 that was sick & Preached in the evening to 
a large congregation. Called & spent a little time at Br Tibbets & returned home. 6 m. 

2d [] I recieved 2 letters one from Cousin Betsey Cossett one from Elder Leonard Hardy & two 
Prophets one Neighbor & one T & S. They all brought good news of the work of God & from my 
fathers family. 4. 

3d } [] I recieved 2 letters & wrote 2. Spent most of the time at the office. 4 m. 

4th [] } I wrote a letter to M. Holmes & recieved one from him. 4 m. 

5th I spent the day in making preperation to leave my family for London with the copey right of 
the Book of Doctrins & Covenants to get it secured in the Stationers Hall London. 4. 

6th I Parted with my family took railroad & went to London via Birmingham. It was 16 hours in 
the cars & travelled from Liverpool to London 217 miles. Arived there at 10 oclok at night quite 
weary with my Journey. I spent the night with Br Davis at Br Joiners 10 Thornhill street 
Pentonville London. 220 mile. 

June 7th AD 1844 (Book of Doctrins & Covenants of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints entered at 


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Stationers Hall by W. Woodruff) I recieved a copy of a letter written by John Greenhow to his 
Father in England stating that he was sterrotyping the Doctrins & Covenants of the Church of 
Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints at an expens of $300 dollars. Was to be in England about the 
first of May. Should strike of a few Copies & secure the Copy wright & deprive us the privilege 
of printing them. This was to be kept a secret from me or any of the Church but through the 
mercy of God it fell into my hands & as 1 was the ownly lawful Proprietor or agent for the 
Church 1 immediately employed a printer & Printed three thousand copies. And 1 this Day 
secured the copyright in my own name at the Stationers Hall in London. Carryed one copy 
according to Law to the British Museum & got my reciept for it. 

I walked through a number of the streets in London that I had walked through in 1 840 & 4 1 with 
Elders Kimball & G. A. Smith. I returned to No 10 Thornhill Pentonville & wrote three Letters 
one to Mrs Woodruff one to Thomas Ward & one to M Holmes. I spent the night with Br Davis. 
6 m. 

1 had an interview in the evening with Games Albon. 1 found him filled with a bad spirit. He was 
indeed an accuseer of the brethren. Hardly any one escaped his malace. * I wrote A letter to 
Cousin Betsey Cossett in Answer to her long letter. 

8th 1 met with the Saints in London & Preached in the morning. Communed with the Saints in 
the afternoon & herd their testimony. I again Preached in the evening to a large congregation 
upon the rise & progress of the Church Death of the Prophets &c. 1 had a good time through the 
day. 1 dined with Br Cooper. He is an Elder. I saw his mother the old lady & all was glad to see 
me. He spoke about old times. Spent my time at night at Br Joiners with Br Davis. 5 m. 

9th 'T I went to Br James Albon's & took Dinner & remained with him untill 4 oclok. He told me 
a long yam about all the troubles he had been through since he had been in the Church his being 
Cut off &c. 

1 took tea with Br Benjamin Morgan's Children three Daughters & one Son. His Son Benjamin 
Died about three months since. Those 1 spent the evening with were all in the Church & made 
many inquiries concerning their father who had lived with me in Nauvoo. 1 returned home & 
spent the night. 4. 

10th * I took one of my long London rambles to day. I arose at 5 oclock. Took a walk of about 
one mile to take the morning air. It was a hot clear morning. On my return I found Sister 
Susannah S. Sangiovannah with her little boy had called in her mornings walk to see us. She 
inquired about her Fathers family & Saints in Nauvoo. Seemed vary anxious to get there. Before 
she left I laid my hands upon her head & left a blessing with her. I walked with her on her return 
home about a mile. She sent her respects to Mrs Woodruff. Enquired about Brs Kimball & G. A. 
Smith as she was fonnerly acquainted with them. 

I returned home & took breakfast & then In Company with Br Davis we walked through the city 
to Br Coopers in St Lukes City Road & took a luncheon with him. We then walked to the 


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Monument at the end of London Bridge. From there to the Tower. Called upon Br Story who 
went with us through the Tower. 

We visited that Part that was bimt over containing the Armery. Their was fourteen hundred 
thousand stand of small arms burned. The old mor-ters Cannon & c was strung along in a yard 
that was saved from the fire. Some of them was partially melted by the fire. We visited the New 
annery got up as a kind of make shift. Ownly about 7,000 stand put up. 

After visiting the tower & Dining with Br Story we went through the Thames Tunnel. From 
thence we took tee with Mr Booth who had been to Nauvoo & worked with Elder Turley. 

We then called upon Mrs Osgood king st. Borough London Br Turleys wifes Sister. Found them 
all well. We then Crossed London Bridge took a straight line through the City to 10 Thornhill 
street Penton-ville & spent the night. It was a hot sultry Day, & I got feet sore & was vary weary 
when I retired to bed. The whole Distance that I walked in the City of London this day was about 
16 miles. 

} I wrote a letter to Mrs Woodruff. 

1 1th In company with Elder Davis & Br Crump I visited the British Museum. I found many 
alterations had taken place since I was there in 1840. 1 took Dinner & tea with Brother Henry 
Crump No 1 Flecher row vineyard Walk Clarkenwell. He is a Jeweller & will make me a finger 
ring according to order. I returned home & spent the night. 6 m. 

12th [] A I recieved 2 letters one from Mrs Woodruff one from Sister Sangiovanna. I wrote a 
letter to Mrs Woodruff. I dined with Br Wm. Boothe & his wife Sarah Booth & Sister Mary Ann 
Mitchell & Elder Davis at 14 Lant Street Borough. 

After Dining we walked out to visit the city. We visited the Queens bench Prison for creditors 
Debters. We next passed around the Lambeth Bedlam. Saw numbers of the Lunatics standing at 
the windows as we passed along. We visited the new Catholic Cathedral which is a splendid 
edifice. 

I returned to Brother Booths & took tea. Then went to attend a council of the Saints whare the 
case of Elder Albom was tried for rejecting council. Was found guilty. His case was laid over for 
a week before the vote of the Church was taken to give him a chance to confess his fault if he 
saw proper. After this Case was Closed during which time several uneasy spirits showed 
themselves I addressed the Saints for a few moments in the power of God & the Priesthood & 
rebuked those who would not harken to Council. 8 miles. 

13th } I wrote a letter to Mrs Woodruff. We had a visit from Mrs Sangiovanna & her little boy a 
little time in the morning's walk. Brother Francis Belany measurd my feet for a pair of Boots. It 
was a hot day. We dined with Br John Teter Sheib No 9 Frederick st. Regents Park. Took tea 
with Brother Manister No 60 Totenham Court road. 


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14th (Ale) Elder Elisha H. Davis recieved a letter from his Mother from Montrose which was 
re-cieved with much Joy. We walked to Br [ ] in [ ] street and dined. 

After Dinner we walked through each appartment of the Whithead Brewery. It was a large 
esstablish-ment. I saw the Process of making Porter & ale through all its operations. They 
manufactur 1,000 barrels of Porter each day of the year & 100 Barrels of Ale. They have 35 set 
vats in the shape of hogshead that will hold one thousand barrels each making 35,000 barrels. 
They have suller room for 35,000 barrels more so they can store away 75,000 barrels of Porter or 
ale. They have two steam engines carrying on the esstablishment of 25 hors power each. After 
visiting each portion of this esstablishment I returned to Br Joiners & spent the night. Distance of 
the day 5 mile. 

15th Sunday I preached in the morning to the Church in London & had a good time. In the 
afternoon I communed with the Saints. They occupied the time in bearing their testimony to the 
things of God. In the evening I Preached to a large assembly of saints & sinners from Luke 2 1 ch. 
I felt the spirit of the Subject & had a good time. 8 miles. 

16th } I wrote a letter to Mrs Woodruff after a long mornings walk. A man & his wife Called to 
be baptized. He was Br to James Parsons of Nauvoo who has lately Come to this Country 
obtained some £300 pounds in money taken a young girl run away with her not intending to 
return to his wife in Nauvoo. For this Crime we have Cut him off from the Church. 

I took Dinner with Br Morris took tea with Br Crump & returned home whare [there were] [] :]■ 2 
letters for me one from President Brigham Young of Nauvoo & the other from Mrs Woodruff of 
Liverpool both of which I was glad to obtain. I wrote one in return to Mrs Woodruff. She sent me 
some of the Hair of Joseph Smith & the whole of the Smith Family & the quorum of the Twelve 
to put into a finger ring. Distance of the day 6 miles. 

17th * I had another long ramble today through London. I called upon Br Henry Crump No 1 
Fletcher row vineyard Walk Clarkenwell. From thence to the Temple bar then to the National 
gallery. Went all through it then returned home & took dinner. Found some friends who had 
called to take a walk with us to show us the City among whome was Sister Mary Ann Mitchell 
An intimate friend of Sister Sangiovanna. Her father & Mother Came to spend the evening. 

After dining we walked through each appartments of the Pantheon containing a large Number of 
the most splendid Paintings, also all kinds of Fancy articles for sale. We next went through the 
Soho Bazarr; also Lothar Arkade Also through each ap-partment of the National gallery again, & 
around the Trafalgar square & then home again. Took tea Blessed Mary Ann Mitchell And Br 
Wm. Booth & then walked home with Br Booth to the Borough. Then return back to Br Joiners 
& retired to rest. Quite weary. The whole distance of the day 20 miles. 

18th We had a visit a few moments this morning from Sister Sangiovanna. She brought us a 
regular built Jonnycake made out of American Indian Com meal for our breakfast. Gave me a 


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new stock & Mrs Woodruff A silk work bag made out of a dress of hers. Sister Mary Ann 
Mitchell made Susan A present of a box of toys. 

We left London took steamer rode to woolwich. Met with the Saints in the evening for a meeting. 
Had a cold time indeed. Their appeared but little of the spirit of the work of the Lord in the place. 
We spent the night with Br Turner /After writing the following Acrostic/. 14 m. 


Acrostic 

More precious than gold or the pearl of the East 
Are the virtues and beauties that adorn thy mind. 

Round thee all noble spirits share in that richest feast 
Your melodious voice imparts from richest gifts Divine. 
Adorned is thy Soul with jems that Angels Love. 

No power shall take thy Crown that's secure above. 
Noble has been thy aim through all thy deeds of life. 


May thy future path be marked by Gods own hand. 

Inspired by Eternal truth let peace & joy surround thy brow. 

Tread in the Holy Courts of God in Zion’s Chosen land. 

Celestial love shall through thy sacred bosom flow. 

Heavens highest blessings art in store for thee. 

Eternity shall lift the veil and point to thy domain. 

Live then O! Noble Lady for those gifts so free. 

Lift up thy head in glory with Kindred spirits reign. 

19th [] * This was also an interesting day to me in gratifying the sight of the eye. We went on to 
the woolwich perade ground. The morning was plesant. The field was green presenting the 
appearance of one of our Illinois Paries. A ridgment of foot soldiers was on perade one of 
Cavelry one of Artillery several bands of music. The Artillery showed much dexterity in the use 
of the Cannon taking to pees their Carriages & putting them to gether. They were to fire shot & 
shells in the Afternoon at a mark but we did not stay. 

We visited the woolwich military rotunda which was interesting in the highest degree. It 
contained arms & instruments of war from almost evry nation under [ ] and a model and 

representation of nearly all forts fortifications battle grounds bridges Ships of war, Armament 
guns cannons mortars moving of Artillery & baggage waggons from ten to twenty five horses 
attached to each. Some of the most conspicuos presentations was Giberalter Quebeck Battle of 
Waterloo & many others which gives a good likenes of the water rocks buildings forts &c. 

After leaveing this place we walked to Greenwich. Passed a large Company who had pitched 


Page350 





their tents to play a game of wicket ball upon a high bet. We went through the Greenwich Park 
containing a large number of Chesnut trees & other shrubery. Their was a large number of Deer 
in the Park. The bucks horns were growing out in the velvet. 

We stoped & dined with Br Wilson. We then took cars. Rode to London or the borough. Called 
upon Br Wm. Booth & took tea. Sister Mary Ann Mitchell accompanied her Mother who has 
been totally blind for 2 years to meeting with us. 

We had a Church meeting. Elder Albon was present who had a trial the week before. I addressed 
the meeting for about an hour upon principle. I was vary plain concerning the case of Br Albon. 
At the Close I nominated Br Henry Crump to the office of an Elder which was carried. 

When I Closed the Case of Br Albon was again brought up for a settlement. After some remarks 
from Br Davis Elder Albon got up with a heart full of evil envy & accusation. Acknowledge that 
what was brought against him was true & he should continue on his course preaching baptizing 
& ordaining his own way. A vote was taken and he was Cut off from the Church once more 
making the second time he has been Cut of from the Church. 

When this was done An evil spirit arose in the hearts of some of the Priests upon another subject 
which I was oblieged to reprove & put down though it had a tendency to do good in the end & 
purge evil out of the hearts of men. Our meeting held untill near midnight. It was rather of a 
stormy meeting taking it all together. Distance of the day 15 mile. On my return home I recived a 
letter from Mrs Woodruff. 

20 Q 4 1 recieved a letter to day from Br Ward containing the first No of the 6th vol of the Star. I 
wrote 2 letters one to Brs Hedlock & Ward & one to Mrs Woodruff. I attended meeting in the 
evening with the Saints. During the afternoon I Baptized 2 persons in the Agaston bath. It was Br 
& Sister Parsons. 8 miles. 

21 st } I wrote a letter to Br Crook of Birmingham No 6 Court Lower winsor street Birmingham. 

I went to Br Crumps & dined, After which I returned home & spent the evening. Br Davis went 
over the river to Br Wm. Booths. I went [and] made arange-ments with Br Herry Crump for two 
finger rings one for myself & the other for Mrs Woodruff. 

[ ] 

June 22d Sunday I met with the Saints for the last time on the occasion of preaching to them 
while on this visit to London. I Preached in the morning after assisting Br Davis in baptizing 2 
persons. We had quite a full attendance. 

I dined with Br David Shorton. We Administered the sacrament in the Afternoon, & I ordained 
Br Henry Crump to the office of an Elder & confirmed 4 persons blessed 2 children 
Administered to 10 sick persons. Some portion of the time was occupied by the brethren & 
Sisters in bearing testimony & we had a good meeting. 


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As the City had been placarded during the week saying that W Woodruff would preach a funeral 
sermon upon the death of the Prophet & Patriarch Joseph & Hiram Smith who were murdered for 
their religion in Carthage Illinois on the 27th of June 1844, services to commence at 1/2 past 6 
oclock in the evening at an early hour the people began to gather. And the house was soon filled 
with a large respectable congregation. I took for my text the XVI Ch. Rev 3 to 7 verses. I treated 
upon the life and character of Those men the origen rise & Progress of the Church the 
Administering of the Angel of God unto them their Persecution & marterdom. The spirit of God 
rested upon me and I deeply felt the wait of the subject. The house was almost as still as the 
house of Death. The strictest attention was paid And a good impression seemed to be made upon 
the minds of the people. 

At the close of the meeting A Collection was taken up & about £1.10 was taken in all. At the 
Close of the meeting I felt satisfied with the labours of the day & felt thankful for the privilege of 
bearing my testimony before about three hundred Saints And many respectable citizens in the 
city of London. 

When I reflect back to 1 840 & remember the time when I first brought the gospel to London in 
company with Elders Kimball & G. A. Smith & we walked the Streets of London for about 30 
Days before we baptized a soul and after about six months labour we established a branch of 
about 40 members & the work from that time untill the Present had slowly progressed through all 
difficulty untill the light was growing brighter & brighter & a prospect of many souls being 
brought unto the kingdom of God. 

23 [] } I recieved 2 letters one from Mrs Woodruff & one from R. Hedlock. I wrote 2 Letters one 
to Mrs Woodruff & the other to Br Hedlock. 

Sisters Eliza (Coffin) Emms, Elizabeth Daniels, Deborah Scammel & several others raised a 
subscription of about one pound to get me a good wescoat. So I started this morning at 5 oclock 
& walked 5 miles to Br Laudent to buy of him a peace of black silk velvet as he manufactured 
the article. He took me to the master of the shop who showed me the best peace he had which 
was in the Loom & I had to wait for some of it to be wove in order to get enough for A pattern. 
Sister Deborah Scammel cut & made it for me. 

After returning home from this place we called & dined with a brothers & then went into the 
borough & called upon Br Wm. Booth & spent the Afternoon & took tea with a number of the 
Saints. Sister Booth was totally blind & had been for two years which is a great trial to her & the 
family. We walked out in the evening & attended A London Singing School After which I 
returned home with Br Davis deing quite weary & spent the night. Whole distance of the day on 
the pavements in London in a new pair of Boots cost £1.3 which left me sore feet at night. 25 
miles. 

24th :)■ I wrote A Letter to Br & sister Hiram Clark & agreed to attend a quarterly Conference on 
Sunday the 29th. I spent most of the day at home writing. In the Afternoon the man of the house 


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curse & swore & quarrelled badly with his wife & children & much abused his wife with 
Language that was disgraceful. I spent most of the day in writing. 

In the evening in company with Br & Sister Booth & Br Davis. I visited the BAZAAR BAKER 
ST PORTMAN SQUARE. Biographical and Descriptive Sketches of the Destinguished 
Characters which compose the UNRIVALLED EXHIBITION of MADAME TUSSAUD AND 
SONS. 

Madame Tussaud And Sons have the gratification to possess the coronation robes of George the 
Fourth and the Emperor Napoleons a most extraordinary sight to be under one roof with an 
endless variety of relics of evry description which would fatigue the reader to ennumerate. 

I have never in my travels seen any thing that could begin to compare with the exhibition above 
spoken of. I purchased on entering a Book giving a description of the Contents of each room. The 
Cost of fitting up this exhibition must amounted to Millions of Dollars. 

In this exhibition could be seen the exact appearance of the crowning of the Queen of England & 
her courts at various times & the Kings & Queens of England for centuries & the Kings and 
Emperors of Europe, celebrated Poets oretors & Lords of the earth among which stood General 
Washington in his dress of State. A Byron, Shakespeer, Voltair, Luther, Calven, Knox, Wesley & 
many others found among the group & what makes the seenery interesting is the identical 
Coronation robes with all their diamonds stars precious stones & costly array which they wore in 
life are there. 

The sleeping beauty of France with her jewels jems, necklace of brilliants around her while her 
bosom heaves with breath while asleep looks as natural as life. Nepoleon under almost evry 
circumstance of life is there represented. The Identical Carriage with all its Convenience for 
sleeping, writing, deposit for armour that he rode in at the battle of watterloo is there & the bed 
he died upon at St Hellena, with his dressing case gold snuffbox, knives pens pencils, & all 
small articles that he used about him. Their is nothing fictitious but real except the personages 
being of wax figures & their expressions, countenances looking so much like life & then some of 
them moving by Clock work that one would naturally suppose they were living beings. The 
following is merly an extrat of some of the characters & names that are to be seen: 

FIRST GROUP in honor of her /<most glorious>/ Majesty & the Duke of Wellington. 

1st Her Majesty Victoria dresed in a full court Costume. 

2d Prince Albert of Saxe Coburg in a field marshal's uniform. 

3d His Grace the Duke of Wellington unifonn of a brittish General. 

4th Nicholas I Emperor of Russia unifonn <of the> R Guards. 

5 Archbishop of Canterbury in robes worn ownly at the Coronation. 


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6 H. R. H. The Duchess of kent in full coronation Robe. 

7 Frederick William IV, Present King of Prussia. 

8th The Queen Dowager in a Court Dress. 

9th Espartero, late regent of spain. Uniform Spanish general. 

10th Louis Philippe king of the French in the costumes of the national worn by himself. 

1 1 Comodore Napier As an Admiral. 

12 Lord John Russel. 

13 Mehemet Ali in a Turkish costume. 

14 Charles XIV King of Sweeden And Norway unifonn of the Sweedish Guard. 

15th The Marquis of Anglesea uniform of a Hussar. 

16 Sir Robert Peel Bart. 

17 Lord Hill Late commander In Chief in the uniform of an English General. 

1 8 Marquis of wellesley brother to the duke of Wellington in the cloths & orders worn by him at 
the court of George the IV. 

19th Lord Palmersten. 

20th H R H The Late Princes Augusta in the Actual dress she wore at the Coronation of Queen 
Victoria. 


SECOND GROUP 

21st His Majesty George the IV. The figure of his Majesty wearing the orders of the Garter Bath 
and Guelph. Was modelled from life; the Robe complete in evry respect worn by his Majesty was 
that used in the Procession to Westminister Abbey And measured seven yards long by three wide. 
It was borne by nine eldest sons of Peers. The robe placed on your extreeme right, under the 
looking glass, was used at the opening of Parliament. That on your left similarly placed was the 
purple, or imperial Robe, used on his Majesty's return from the Abbey. The three robes contain 
five hundred & sixty seven feet of velvet and embroidery and with the ermine lining Cost 
£18,000 or $90,000 dollars. He was crowned 19th July 1821. Died in the 68 year of his age, & on 
the 10 of his reign on the 26th June 1830. 

22d George I In the robes of the order of the Thistle. 

23d His Magesty George III In the robes of St Patrick. 


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24th Princes Charlotte of Wales dressed in a full court costume. 

25th H R H The late Duke of Kent in the Robes and habit of the order of the bath wearing all the 
Royal orders. 

26th Leopold I King of Belgium in the full habit of the garter taken from Life in 1817. 

27 Her Majesty the Late Queen Charlotte in a full court dress of her period wearing the hoop &c. 

28 H R H The Duke of Cambridge in a full field marshall uniform with the coronation robe & 
with all the Royal Collars. 

29th George II In the full robes of the garter as worn at that period with the ancient Collar. 

30th H R H. The Late Duke of york in the full robes of the garter wearing various Royal orders. 

3 1 His Late Majesty William IV In the magnificent Coat worn by himself as Lord High Admiral 
of England. 

32 His Majesty King of Hanover in a full field Marshails Uniform with the robes of the bath 
Collars &c. 

33 Queen Caroline in a court dress of the period. 

34 H. R. H. The Late Duke of Sussex in a suit of Cloth worn by himself as Colonel of the city 
Artillery wearing the mantle he wore at the coronation of Queen Victoria. 

THIRD GROUP 

Representing the coronation of her most Gracious Majesty Queen Victoria. Her Majesty dressed 
in her royal robes is seated on the Throne having on her head the imperial Crown & in her hands 
the sceptre & orb. Near the Queen the Archbishop of Canterbury is imploring a blessing 
supported by the Archbishop of York and the Lord Bishop of London. The throne is the Identical 
one under which George IV recieved the Allied sovreigns. All the figures are dressed in strict 
accordance with the regulation at the Coronation. 

35 Her Most Gracious Magesty Victoria. 

36 Lord Melboum in the robes of A Peer. 

37 Arch Bishop of York in robes worn ownly at the coronation. 

38 Duke of New Castle In A Peers Robes & uniform of Lord Lieutenant wearing the collar of the 
garter. 

39 Marquis of Londonderry uniform of the 4th Hussars. 

40 Marquis of Normanby in the robes of a peer and a knight of the order of St Patrick. 


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41 Bishop of London in a bishop full dress. 

42 Earl Grey in a Peers Robes and Coat of a minister. 

43 Duke of Sutherland. 

44 Duke of Devonshire Court Diplomatic Dress. 45 Lord Lyndhurst in the robes of a peer. 

46 Lord Viscount Nelson in the uniform of an Admiral. 

47 Right Honorable George Canning. 


FOURTH GROUP 

Representing the most celebrated characters of the Late War including the members of the Holy 
Alliance. Description: The figure pointing to the Eagle represents Buonaparte. Immediately 
behind him. Marshal Hey & next to the Pedestial is Murat the Late King of Naples. Behind them 
stand Prince Talleyrand & Roustan the favourite Mameluke. The figure seated is intended for the 
Emperor of Austria; behind him next to the Pedestial the king of Prussia and the brave Blucher 
with Allexander Emperor of Russia offering on behalf of the Allied monarchs the Kingdom of 
France. 

The intention of the Group is to show at one view the Principal actors in a war which can never 
have a parallel; to give effect to which the Allied Monarchs are supposed to be offering to 
Napoleon the kingdom of France as it was under Louis XIV (an historical fact) which he refuses 
perfering to risk the chance of war against Europe in anns rather than give up his pretentions to 
universal dominion. Napoleon grasping that sword which opened the road to the highest pinnacle 
of renown points to his favourite Eagle, and determines never to submit, but to fulfill his destiny. 
The Eagle sunnounting the whole was presented by Napoleon to his Imperial Guard and was 
taken at Waterloo by the Prussians under Von Bulou. 

48 Emperor of Austria & King of Hungary in the Unifonn of the Austrian Guards. 

49 Allexander Late Emperor of Russia do, do, do. 

50 Frederick William III King of Prussia do, do, do. 

5 1 Field Marshall yon Blucher in the unifonn of the Prussian Guards. 

52 Napoleon Buonaparte in the uniform of a Chasseur of the Guard with the star of the Legion of 
Honour (taken from life in the year 1815. He was bom 19 day of Aug 1769 died on the 5th May 
1821). 53 Murat King of Naples. 


54 Prince Talleyrand in his usual dress. 

55 Marshall Ney Prince De La Moscow's. 


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56 A Favorate Mameluke of Napoleons who saved his life in Egypt. 

57 Portrait Model of his Royal Highness prince of Wales. 

57 H R H The Prince of Wales & Princes Royal in their splended [ ] (of the same as the 

original at the Palace. 

Fifth or Armour Group 

Interesting Group of Historical Characters in magnificent suits of Annour with the badge of the 
Garter Period 1649. *** [Asterisks are Woodruffs.] 

Cromwell is supposed to communicate to the unfortunate Charles his death war[rent], 

58 Charles I In a magnificent suit of Chevelier Annour with the badge of the Garter period 1669. 
59th Oliver Cromwell in his favorite dress bom April 1st 1594 Died Sept 3 1658. 

60 Charles II in A suit of chevalier Annour with the badge of the garter. 

61 Wolsey In the dress of A Cardinal. 


SIXTH GROUP 

(62) John of Arc As represented at Versailles. 

63d Henry IV of France in a Suit of Chevalier Armour with a badge of the Holy Ghost. He 
granted toleration to the Protestants. Was Assassinated by Ravilla May 14 1610. 

64th Francis I of France in a cap a pie suit of the time with the badge of the virgin. 

SEVENTH GROUP 

The unfortunate Mary Queen of Scots Reproved by John Knox. 

This Group is intended to represent at one view the celebrated characters of the 15th century to 
give effect to which John Knox is supposed to be insulting the Queen (an historical fact) which 
she bore with Great resignation. Near Queen Mary Stands Henry the VIII and his daughter Queen 
Elizabeth. Behind John Knox are figures of the great reformers Luther and Calvin. 

65 Mary Queen of Scotts the Costume copied from an original picture. 

66 King Henry the Eighth in the Costume of Francis I. He was the Hardest harted villian And the 
most consumate wretch that ever sat on a throne, lived to the Age of 55 reigned 37 years during 
which he sacrificed the lives of thousands. He had six wives two of whome were beheaded. 

67 Queen Elizabeth from A picture At Hampton Court Palace by Holbein. 


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68 John Knox costume of the day. 

69 John Calvin in clerical Dress. 

70 Martin Luther the costume from An original statue. 

71 James II in A miliatary dress of 1687. 

72 William III In a milatary dress of the Period. 

FHME Standing on A Pedestial between Pitt & Fox. 

73 Rt. Hon William Pitt As a Master of Arts. 

74 Rt. Hon C. J. Fix As A Master of Arts. 

75 Earl Eldon Taken in 1833. 

76 Joseph Holme ESQ taken from life in 1836. 

77 Daniel O Connell Esqr. 

78 Lord Brougham. 

79 Sir Francis Burdett. 80 Earl of Leicester. 

8 1 Earl Spencer. 

82 Lord Durham taken from life. 

83 Lord Byron taken from A bust. 

84 Sir Wm. Scott taken from life in Edinborgoh in 1828 by Madame Tussaud. 

(85) George Washington dressed as the President of America taken from A bust executed from 
Life. This personage bespoke as much dignity as any member of the Group. 

86 William Cobbett in the suit of Dress usually worn by him. 

87 Richard Cobden Esqr. 

Louis the sixteenth his queen And the children. 

88 Louis the sixteenth of France costume of the Saint Espirit. 

89 Maria Antionette Queen of Louis XVI. 

90 The Dauphin in the dress usually worn at the period. 

91 The Duchess Dangouleme. 


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92 Voltaire Ancient Costume taken from life two months before his death. 

93 A coquett in the dress usually worn by ladies at the period. 

94 Madam Saint Amaranthe (or sleeping beauty). 95 The Artist taken by himself. 

96 The Rev John Wesley As A Doctor of Arts. 

97 Rev John Clows A M. 

98 Baron Sweedenborg costume senator of sweeden. 

99 Shakespeare 

100 J P. Kimball Esqr. 

101 Mrs Siddons in the character of Queen Catherine. 

102 Mr Liston in the Character of Paulpry. 

103 The vary Rev Theobald Mathew usually called father Mathew. 

104 Madame Malibran De Beriot. 

105 Paganina 

106 Frost the Chartist Leader. 

107 Commissioner Lin And his favourite consort. 108 An Infant found on the River Seine. 

109 An Infant represents son of Madame Tassaud. 

110 Charles S Stratton known as General Tom Thumb. He weighed at his birth nine lbs And 2 
oz. 

Is now 14 years of age. His present wait is but 15 lbs. 

RELICS OF THE EMPEROR NAPOLEON 

101 The celebrated campbed used by the Emperor Napoleon 7 years at St Helenna with the 
original mattresses And pillow on which He died, And on which he is represented lying in state 
in his Chasseurs unifonn coverd with the identical Cloak He wore at Marenge And prized so 
highly that he expressly left if by will to his son the king of Rome. In it he lay in soldiers glory 
And it served as his pall to the grave. They paid for the bed alone £550. The likeness of the 
Emperess. 

102 The representation of the Regalia of France the Crown of Charlemagne the septere with the 
Eagle. 103 Coronation Robe of Napoleon. 


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104 Coronation Robe of the Empress Josephine the train of which at her coronation was bourn by 
4 Queens. 

105 Two Girandoles presented by the Emperor Napoleon At a cost of £800. 

106 Magnificent Clock & Candalabras with the chene, Marble Chimney piece, looking Glass 
frame &c. 

107 Figure of the Emperor Napoleon & in the Identical Cloths he wore at Helena waistcoat small 
cloths stockings, morning gown sword belt, late property of Prince Lucien. 

108 The celebrated flag of Elba which Napoleon presented to the National Guards of Elba 
afterwards used by him on his return to fiance. It was Again presented to his guard before the 
battle of Waterloo was taken by the Prusians. This flag accompanied Napolion in the most 
interesting period of his marvelous History. 

109 The Identical sword worn And used by Napoleon during his Campaign in Egypt. 

1 10 A Diploma with Napoleon signature. 

1 1 1 A sword of honor picked up at Waterloo name [Junat?]. 

1 12 The Boreeau or cradle of the Son of Napoleon the king of Rome valued at £500 Sterling. 

1 13 Gold Repeating watch presented by Napoleon to M[..]. 

114 Cameo Ring presented by Napoleon to Prince Lucian. 

115 Diamond found in the carriage when taken. 116 Napoleon's tooth brush. 

117 Table knife taken in the carriage at Waterloo. 

118 Pair of shoe socks worn by the Emperor. 119 The Emperor Pocket Hankerchief. 

120 Under Neck Handkerchief the Emperor wore at St Helena. 

121 Extraordianary And probably the most curious relic in existance the counterpane used on the 
camp bed on which Napoleon Died Marked with his BLOOD. 

122 Dessert knife fork and spoon bequeathed by the Emperor to his brother the ex king of spane. 

123 Coffee Cup used by the Emperor at St Helena. 

124 Splendid Gold snuff presented by Napoleon to Prince Lucian. 

125 Spoon taken in the carriage. 126 Also smelling Bottle. 127 Tooth of Napoleon. 

128 Instrument that drew the tooth. 


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129 Belt of the King of Rome mounted with fine gold. 

130 A singular secret clock containing small figure of Napoleon. 

131 Shirt waist Coat Drawers, Madras Handkerchief worn by the Emperor in Exhile. 

132 Busts of Princes Eliza 133 Maria Eliza 134 Napoleon. 

135 Lucien by Trentenou's [ ] Pictores. 

136 Magnificent Gallery Picture by order of the Emperor. 

137 Full Portrait of the Empress Maria Louise worked in Tapestry value £1,000. 

138 Josephine in her Imperial costume. 139 Prince Lucien. 140 The King of Rome. 

141 Madam Mere Napoleons Mother. 

142 The Princes Caroline Queen of Naples wife of Murat. 

143 Napoleon crossing the Alps. NB It will be noticed that this Room contains Napoleon’s 
Mother as General Emperor Exile and in Death. 

144 The table of the Marshalis Presented by Napoleon to Paris in 1810. This painting on 
Porcelain formed of a single slab ten feet two inches in circumference was ordered by Napoleon 
on his return from the battle of Austerlitz. It contains 14 portraits correct likenesses of the 
following Persons: Napoleon in the centre at full length in his Imperial Robes seated on a throne 
of bronze represented as A Star surrounded by 13 rays upon which are inscribed the following 
names: Wertengen, Hemmingen, Flechengin, Ulm, Augsbourg, Braunau, Lintz Diernstem 
Vienne, Inspruk, Brunn, Austenlitz And Presbury. The first cost of this slab was £12,000 or 
$60,000. 

Second Room carriage taken at Waterloo. 

145 The celebrated & highly Curious military Carriage of the Emperor Napoleon in which He 
made the campaign of Russia And which was captured on the evening of the battle of Waterloo 
and sent with the officer that took it to the Prince Regent from whom it was purchased for 
£2,500. 800,000 people have paid to see it. It accompanied Napolion in many of his campaigns 
And was used by him as soyreign of Elba. It was so constructed as to make good 
accommodations for riding sleeping writing eating storing Anns &c. I Wilford Woodruff sat in 
this caniage in which Napoleon had spent so many Anxious hours & from which he gave 
command in his last battle even that of Waterloo. 

146 Whip picked up on the spot whare the Caniage was taken to the Emperor. 

147 The Curious Toilette Box presented by Maria Louise to the Emperor. This was taken with its 


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contents & 300 diamonds of great value by the Russians at Waterloo. 

148 Superb bust of Napoleon. 

149 Desert service of 28 pieces used by the Emperor at St Helena. 

150 Exquisite Miniatures in oil by Monsiur Mansion. 

151 Travelling case in which was carried Napoleon Mattresses Pillow &c. 

RELICS 

Purchased by Messrs Tassauds at the sale of Dis 

R. D. the Duke of Sussex at Messrs Christies. 1 peace of cloth of gold. 2 Ribon of Lord Nelson. 

3 star & garter presented by George IV to the Duke of Sussex. 

4 snuff Box of James II. 

5 Paste Star of the Duke of Sussex. 

6th Cap worn by the Duke in the presence of her Majesty. 

7th Three embroidered stars of the garter. 

8 Riband of the garter thistle and St Patrio. 

9th Order of the garter worn by the Duke. 

10 Shoe of Pope Pius VI. 

1 1 Autograph of George IV & William II. 

12 Hair of the Late Marquis of wellesley. 

13 Handkerchief of George IV. 

14 Hair of George III. 

15 Knife with Margarett Nickolson attempted to assassinate George III. 

16 Pair of spurs of the Duke of Sussex worn at Court. 

CHAMBER OF HORRORS 
Large figures 

152 Count De Lorge As in prision in the Bas-tile. 

153 Marat Taken immediately After his assassination by Charlott Corday with a knife in his bath. 


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154-155 Burke And Hare taken Burke 3 Hours after his execution And Hare in prision. There 
trade was killing people for there bodies to be desected. 

HEADS 

156 Robspierre Taken immediately after his execution. 

157 Carrier Taken immediately after his execution. In sever[all instances He caused 24 innocent 
persons to be put to death in one day but/put Was at last guillotined 1794. 

158 Foquier Tinville "" Devoted 80 persons to death in 4 hours but was at last guillotined 1794. 

159 Hebert "" was guillotined 1794. 

160 Ravaillae for stabbing Henry the IV. His right hand was consumed in boiling brimstone. His 
flesh was pulled off his bones with red hot pinchers. Boiling oil rosin & brimstone was poured on 
his wounds and melted lead on his Navel. Was then drawn in quarters by 4 horses. 

161 The original Cast of Burkes face. 

162-163 Stewart and his wife taken from there faces 3 hours after there execution. Poisoned And 
Robed a Captain of a Vessel. 

164 Greenacre Murdered Hannah Brown And executed 1837. 

165 Daniel Me Naughton Shot Mr Drummen thinking it was Sir Robert Peel. Is now at St Lukes 
insane. 

166 Courvoisier Murdered Lord William Russel, executed 1840. 

167 Richard Gould Murdered Mr Templeman And transported. 

168 Dennis Collins Attempted the life of William IV. Was transorted but died on the way. 

169 Daniel Good Murdered Jane Jones And burned her bed. 

170 Edward Oxford Shot at Queen Victoria & prince Albert to kill them but missed. 

171 Sir William Courtney Dressed as king of Jerrusalem. He shot a Constable And an officer. He 
with 17 of his followers was killed and wounded. 

172 John Francis found guilty of High treason for shooting at her Majesty. 

173 Job John Ward murdered Timothy Easthead 18 months old. 

174 Fieschi Attempted the Life of the king of the french And his Sons. He with his Confederaters 
were guillotined. 


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Models And Relics 


175 Model of the Guillotine. 

176 Model of the Bastile. 

Ill Shirt of Henry IV worn by himself when Stabed by Ravillae with the Blood still to be seen 
upon the shirt. 

178 An Egyptian Mummy. 

179 Case Containing the Mummy. 

180 Holloway Murdered his wife in a horrible manner. 

181 Corder. 

1 82 Mr Kean. 

Cabinet Figures 

183 Louis XVI And the Due. D. Orleans. 

184 Tippoo Saib was killed fighting May 4 1799. 185 Tippoo Saib Sultana. 186 Cleopatra Dying. 

187 Socrates Dying. 

188 Voltaire at the age of fifty. 189 Madame Popeire A fish woman. 190 Shepherd And Sheep. 
191 Shepherd And Shepherdess. 

June 25 I attended a tea meeting with the Saints in London & had a good time. I deliverd my 
farewell address to them. 

After walking to the burough with Br Davis & some of the Saints I returned with him & spent the 
night at Br Joiners. Distance of the day 12 miles. 

26th I took the Parting hand with Br Davis & the London Saints & travelled on the railroad to 
Birmingham & called upon Elder Crook at 17 Winsor Street Birmingham, & spent the night at Br 
Thomas Print No 13 Court Palmer street near Great Bar street. Distance of the day 125 miles. 

} I wrote a letter to Mrs Woodruff. 

27th Day of PRAYER & FASTING One year ago this day the Prophet Joseph & Patriarch Hiram 
Smith were martered. I Appointed this day throughout the Churches in this land as a day of 
prayer & fasting. I arose in the morning & fasted through the day. Spent a part of the day in 
prayer & a part of it in writing. At 6 oclok I took sumthing to eat & met with the Saints in 
Birmingham at 8 oclok and had an interesting time & returned to Br Prints & spent the night. 3 
m. 


Page364 




28 } I wrote 2 letters one to Mrs Woodruff & one to Hedlock & Ward. I visited various parts of 
Binningham called upon A number of the Saints. I dined with Br Friesby. I met with the council 
in the evening & addressed the officers for about one hour & had the spirit of teaching. 6 miles. 

29th [] Sunday I recieved a letter from Elder Hedlock by Br Davis. I Preached in the morning at 
the old hen & chickens yard High Street, to near 400 Saints. We partook of the Sacrament in the 
Afternoon. I confirmed 5 Blessed 6 children Administered to 10 that was sick. 

In the evening I Preached a funeral Sermon upon the death of the Prophets. The house was 
crowded to overflowing. I addressed the congregation for about 2 hours & the people gave the 
most profound attention. A good impression was made. Many Strangers were present that had 
never attended our meetings before. At the Close I spent half an hour shaking hands then 
returned to Br Prints & spent the night. I dined & took tea with Br Price & Breakfast with Br 
Mannan. 6 miles. 

30th } I wrote 2 letters one to Elder Davis & one to Elder Hedlock. I attended a tea meeting with 
the Saints at their hall. Over 200 sat down. Some catholics & others were present. We had a good 
Cheerful time. I address the meeting in the evening. 4 m. 

July 

JULY 1st Tuesday I spent most of the day writing at Br Keens. Sister Elizabeth Keen made me a 
Present of a box of steel pens, A Box of glass stamps & other trinklets. Br Whitehead gave me 
some things. His Son George sent a micricope to Son Willford. 

I attended the Church meeting in the evening. Preached the building of Zion & temple & books 
&c. Had a full house & good time. At the Close of the meeting it took half an hour to get through 
shaking hands & get out of doors. Several followed me to Br Prints. Br Day told his story about 
being cut off By Br Smith. I went to bed at one oclok & spent the night. 3 mile. 

July 2nd I took the parting hand with the Saints in Binningham & rode to the Staffordshire 
Potteries. I found Br & sister Clark at Br Thomas Yeomans Star Maker Picadilla Shelton. I spent 
the night at Br Martins in Brunswick street Shelton. 

} I wrote 2 letters one to Br Hedlock one to Mrs Woodruff. [] I received one from Br Hedlock. 40 
miles. 

July 3d I walked with Br & Sister Clark to Burslem & Tunstell & I dined with Br Lee. Saw Br & 
Sister Wheeler. This is the week of Burslem wakes. The streets were full of people. On our return 
home we called upon Br Simpsons family. Saw sister Simpson. He was not at home. This is the 
first time I had visited the potteries since 1841. It look quite natural. Distance of the day 10 m. 

July 4th } This is the day of the American independance which is celebrated in the united States. I 
wrote 2 letters this morning one to Mrs Woodruff & one to Elder John Johnson. I recieved [] two 


Page365 




Letters one from Br Johnson & one from Br Davis. I wrote Br Davis an answer. I dined with Br 
Mason at the cotage or lodge to Shelton Hall. 

During the evening we took a walk through the garding which was interesting. I visited the grape 
Houses which were coverd with glass. The grapes were about half grown. I was informed that 
some of the bunches of grapes when ripe would weigh 10 lbs. each. He kept stone coal fires to 
heat the summer houses for 8 months in a year day & night. After leaving the garding & taking 
supper with Br & Sister Mason I returned to Br Martins & spent the night. 

July 5th * I this day in company with Br & Sister Clark visited the large china works in Burs-leto 
which was highly interesting. The show room was vary splendid indeed. One could hardly be 
made to believe that china ware could be fonned into such curious articles fonns shapes & sizes 
as is presented there. Some china plates were exhibited that were sold for £16 or $90 dollars each 
by the set, & evry thing els in proportion. Beehives, men & beast flowers & roses & network in 
the fonn of Cloth, Chains & sundry articles were fonned out of China. After spending the day we 
met in Council with the officers in the evening & we had a good time. I spent the night with Br 
Martin. 8 miles. 

6th Sunday I met with the Saints in the Pot-eries for the first time since 1841. 1 Preached in the 
morning communed in the afternoon & I preached in the evening on the death of the prophets. 
Had a full house & a good time. Had a hard stonn of rain to go home in. I spent the night in 
Hanley. 6 miles. 

7th I Parted with the Saints in the Poteries took coach rode to Manchester. Called at Br Sheld-ing 
then upon Sister Holebrook then walked to Newton Heath. Spent the day or afternoon & evening 
with Br & Sister Armstrong. Distance 46 m. 

8th I walked to Manchester. Called upon Br Hewit. Saw the Neighbor of 2 1 17] May containing 
the Account of the laying of the Last Stone on the Temple of the Lord in Nauvoo which was done 
at 6 oclok on the seventh day of the week which stone went up with the shouts of Grace unto it 
for as the stone was laid the band of music & the saints which stood on the walk shouted (Glory 
to God & the Lamb) Halleluah to God & the Lamb Amen Amen Amen which was repeted three 
times the shout of which entered the heavens & Caused the Saints to rejoice on earth. I rejoiced 
much at this intelligence & many other things of interest. I took Cars & rode to Liverpool & once 
more had the privilege of embracing my family. 46 m. 

9th I went to the office to day And attended to such temporal affairs as I had on hand. [] I 
recieved 3 letters. 4 miles. 

10th } I wrote 4 letters one to Br Player one to Clithero, to Wm. Miller & G. Slator. I sent 1 & 2 
Numbers of the 6 vol of the Times and Seasons Star to Ezra Carter, A. Woodruff & B. Cossett. 4. 

1 1th [] } I recieved 3 letters & wrote 3 to T Smith & J Johnson & James Houston. 4. 

12th I wrote A peace for the Star. 4. 


Page366 




13th Sunday I spent the fore part of the day writing the afternoon in council with Elder Ward. 
Spoke of the necessity of union with us And the position I occupy & relation I occupy as 
president to the Churches that I ought to be acquainted with all business going on in relation to 
printing Emigration tithing &c. In the evening I preached to a large assembly of Saints at the 
Music Hall. 4 m. 

14 [] } I recieved 3 letters 2 American one from Elder P. P. Pratt one from I. F. Carter. I was glad 
to hear from Both. I wrote a peace for the Star. I aranged Br Taylors Times & Seasons on the 
shelves today. 

15th [] I recieved 2 letters to day. Wrote one. 4. 

16 } I wrote to Br Hardy one letter. To day was the great Horse race which will last 3 days. 6. 

17th [] I recieved A letter to day from Br Davis. Elder Hardy dined with me today on samion. 

JULY 18th 1845 0 This morning at half Past Seven oclok Just 30 minutes past 7 Mrs Phebe W. 
Woodruff was deliverd of a fine Son After a Short sickness. I laid hands upon her at the 
commencement of her sickness. I told her it should be well with her & with her Child which was 
the case. This was the first Child we have had since our endowment & I thank the Lord that it is a 
Son for unto us a child is born unto us a Son is given. His name shall be Called JOSEPH for unto 
him the Priesthood belongs. He is the first fruits of the fulness of the Priesthood out of the loins 
of Ancient Joseph through the linage of Ephraim given unto us in answer to our Prayers for we 
Asked the Lord to give unto us a Son And he has granted unto us our request. 

We have dedicated & Consecrated him unto the Lord even from his mother womb he is Holy 
unto the Lord. My Prayer to my Heavenly father is that his life may be preserved to stand among 
the Sons of Zion bear the Priesthood with honor And bless his Father and Mother in their old age 
And Honor them that his days may be long upon the land which the Lord God of Israel shall give 
unto him. 

[ ] 

19th [] } I recieved 2 letters And wrote 3 one to Ure, one to Sheets, & one to Davis. 

July 20th Liverpool Quarterly Conference of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints met 
this Sunday morning at half past ten oclock at the Music Hall Bold Street Consert street. Elder 
Stra-ten was Called to the Chair. Elder James Cantwell Clerk. 


There were present Quorum of the Twelve 1 

High Priest 2 

Elder 22 

Priest 1 5 

Teachers 7 


Page367 




Deacons 


4 


Conference was opened by singing & prayer by Elder Ward after which the following Branches 
were represented: 



Members 

Elders 

Priest 

Teacher 

Deacon 

Emig Cut off 

Dead 

Baptized 

Liverpool 

410 

16 

26 

11 

5 

7 

5 


31 

Douglas 

77 

3 

3 

2 

2 

5 

1 


1 

Peel 

40 

3 

5 

1 

2 

3 

1 


1 

St Helens 

13 

1 

1 





1 


Newton 

32 

2 

1 


1 

1 



11 

Harrington 

17 

1 

0 

0 

1 

0 

0 

0 

4 

Tranmere 

47 

1 

3 

1 

1 

4 

0 

0 

14 

Ewloe 

22 

1 

1 

1 

0 

0 

0 

0 

1 

Kennerton 

13 

1 

0 

2 

0 

0 

0 

0 

1 

Chester 

11 

1 

0 

1 

1 

0 

0 

0 

0 

Wooton 

26 

1 

0 

1 

1 

0 

0 

0 

4 

Overton 

13 

0 

1 

1 

0 

0 

0 

0 

0 

Pool Quay 

9 

0 

2 

0 

0 

0 

0 

0 

0 

Total 

730 

44 

[43] 

21 

14 

20 

7 

1 

68 


In the afternoon Sacraments was administered. 3 were confirmed. One Elder 2 Priest one Teacher 
was ordained under the hands of Elders W. Woodruff & T Ward. The Evening was occupied 
from an address by Elders Strattan & Woodruff. 

Joseph A. Stratton President James Cantwell Clerk 

We had a good time through the Conference. The spirit of union prevails throughout the 
confer-e[nce]. Many of the Saints were present from the various conferences. 10 mile. 

21st [] I recieved one letter. Spent the day at office. 4. 

22d } } I wrote 3 American Letters to Father Aphek Woodruff to Father Ezra Carter & Brother 
Ilus F Carter. Wrote to sister Foss in Father Carters letter. I kept a copy of the above letters. 

23d [] f I 1 1 recieved three letters & wrote one to Charles Miller. Mr McGuffee called upon us to 
day. Was vary humble & penetant & in great sorrow & distress of mind in consequence of his 
Apostacy And long hostilities against the Authorities of the Church. He had been an Elder in the 
Church & Cut off for his wickedness And he now almost felt the tonnents of Hell. Prayed to be 
forgiven & wished to come back into the Church. 4 mil. 

24th I spent the day at the office. 4. } I wrote a letter to Br Webster of Nauvoo. 

JULY 25 1845 Friday Joseph Woodruffs Blessing received under the Hands of his Father 


Page368 




Wilford Woodruff of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles while in the Arms of his Mother Phebe 
W. Woodruff on the eight day of his age July 25th 1845 he being born Friday morning 30 
minutes past 7 oclok on the eighteenth day of July AD 1845 in Liverpool England while his 
Parents were on a mission from their native Country to England: 

In the name of Jesus Christ, and by virtue of the Holy Priesthood & the keys of the Kingdom of 
God I lay my hands upon thy head & anoint thee with Holy Consecrated oil which has been 
Consecrated under the hands of the Quorum of the Twelve apostles. With this Anointing I seal 
thy name upon thy head which is JOSEPH. For thou art out of the Loins of Ancient Joseph sold 
into Egypt through the linage of Ephraim. 

Thou hast a legal right to the Melchezedec Priesthood by linage. Thou art the first fruits of the 
Priesthood unto thy parents since there endowment. Thou art a gift from God unto thy Parents in 
answer to their Prayers. I bless you with the blessings of Abraham Isaac and Jacob and Joseph, 
Ephraim & Manassah and the blessings of the new & Everlasting Covenant the blessings of 
heaven & the blessings of the Earth. I seal thee against the power of Death sickness & the 
destroyer untill thy work is finished /for thou shalt have power over them/. 

I here by dedicate and Consecrate thee unto God and the Priesthood from this time forth and 
forever. Thou shalt live to honor thy Parents & the Priesthood. Thou shalt lay thy hands upon the 
heads of thy Father and Mother in their old age and bless them & thou shalt be a Comfort unto 
them. Thou shalt be Baptized the day thou art eight years of age so that thy Covenant with God & 
his kingdom shall not be broaken during thy life. 

I ordain the to be a High Priest after the order of Melchisedic in the Church and kingdom of God 
and I seal upon thy head all the powers and blessings of this Priesthood that when thou shalt 
arive to years of accountability & discretion thou shalt have power to administer in the 
ordinances thereof. 

Thou shalt follow the footsteps of thy Father in thy day and generation in the linage of the 
priesthood. Thou shalt have posterity who shall honor their fathers. 

I seal thee in the covenant of thy father that in the morning of the first resurrection thou shalt take 
thy station in the celestial kingdom in the linage of thy Fathers in the family organization of the 
celestial world. I seal thee up unto Eternal life and no man shall take thy Crown. I seal all these 
blessings upon thy head in the name of Jesus Christ & by virtue of the holy Priesthood And 
Apos-tleship and Keys of the kingdom of God. Even so Amen. Thou shalt have thine inheritance 
with the tribe of Ephriam in the land of Joseph which is the land of Zion both for time and 
Eternity. 

July 25 I Blessed my son Joseph this day. I wrote a letter to An Elder John Albertson and gave 
him some Council. 4 m. 

26th [] } I recieved 2 letters & wrote 5 to E. H. Davis S M Sangiovannah E. Emms, Allen & 


Page369 




Harding. 

27th Sunday I spent the day at home but went to the Music Hall in the evening & Preached from 
Romans XI ch. and had a good time. 4. 

28th Monday In company with Elder Hedlock I counted all of John Taylors Times & Seasons IV 
& Vth volumns & found the following to be the exact number now remaining: 


vol. IV 


1 

356 

11 

353 

21 

367 

5 

289 

15 

399 

2 

361 

12 

362 

22 

374 

6 

413 

16 

390 

3 

362 

13 

360 

23 

368 

7 

390 

17 

382 

4 

361 

14 

308 

24 

366 

8 

392 

18 

394 

5 

366 

15 

374 



9 

385 

19 

391 

6 

362 

16 

362 

vol. 

V 

10 

388 

20 

403 

7 

351 

17 

362 

1 

393 

11 

389 

21 

407 

8 

362 

18 

367 

2 

383 

12 

382 

22 

386 

9 

362 

19 

368 

3 

400 

13 

368 

23 

358 

10 

356=7 

20 

366 

4 

391 

14 

381 

24 

387 


29th [] } I recieved 2 letters & wrote 2. In the evening Elders M. Holmes & J. D. Ross returned 
from Scotland & called upon me & spent the evening with me. We were glad to meet. 

July 30th [] } I recieved five American & 2 English letters from the following Persons: Aphek & 
Azubah Woodruff B Cosset J. M. Grant J. Phelps & James Frederick Cleary, see his letter & 2 
from Brethren in England & one Nauvoo Neighbor all of which brought Cheering intelligence to 
me. It was the first letter I have recieved from Father Woodruff since I have been in England. 
Elder Grants letter was also highly interesting. 

The work of the Lord is onward through America. The Nauvoo House & Temple is rapidly 
Progressing. The judgments of God are through America. The Neighbor contains an account of 
the Murder of Irvin Hodges in the streets of Nauvoo & $200 dollars reward offered for the 
murderer by M R Demirig Co Sheriff. The same Paper Contains an account of the Murder killing 
of Dr Marshall by M. R. Deming the Sheriff of Warsaw. So the Sheriff was taken into Custody 
but out of prison on bail. We also recievd several New York Heralds which stated that Texas was 
annexed & immediate expectation of war with Mexico & probably war with England & such a 
sene of fires Murders suicides floods hail stormes & whilrwinds I seldom ever read of. I 
forwarded the 3d No of the Star to A. Woodruff Azmon Woodruff B. Cossett I. F. Carter E 
Carter Dwight Webster J. M. Grant. A. Woodman & P P. Pratt. 4. 

3 1st [] } I recieved 2 letters & wrote 3 to E. H. Davis, T. Margeretts & Ure. I also mailed the 
letters I wrote to Father Woodruff And acknowledge the recept of theres in it. 4. 

August 


Page370 




Aug 1st [] _[ I wrote a letter to Elder Jedediah M. Grant & recieved 2 letters. I also wrote a ;}■ \ 
long letter to Elder Brigham Young & a long letter to Elder John Taylor & retained a copy of the 
Same 3 Letters. 4 m. 

2d [] } I recieved 2 letters & wrote two one to E. Emms & to J. Allen. I recieved one Neighbor & 
one times & seasons from Nauvoo & the first No of the New York Messenger Published by P. P. 
Pratt. 

3d Sunday I met with the Saints in the Afternoon & communed with them. I preached in the 
evening from the following words: "Let the spirit of the Prophets be subject to the Prophets. I 
saw sister Beers from New York. 6 m. 

4th [] I recieved one letter & wrote 2 letter. 4. } 

5th [] f f I wrote American letters to the following persons: P. P. Pratt I. F. Carter S. B. Foss with 
£2. Aphek Woodruff £1.0.8. 1 sent our Daughter Phebe A Package of winter Clothing and I F 
Carter A good Carving knife fork & steel <[--]> £2. 1 .4 L 4. 

6th [] } I recieved a letter from S.M.S. & wrote one to Wm. Walker & one to Sister Beer 2 L. 4 m. 

7th [] } I recieved 3 letters & wrote 4 to Turner J. Allen E H Davis and S.M.S. 4. 

8th [] } I recieved 2 letters & wrote 2. 4 m. Sister Mary Jackson commenced labour with us this 
day. 

9 [] I recieved 1 letter & wrote 2 to E H Davis & Mary Ann Booth. 4. 

10th Sunday I met with the Saints in the Afternoon & preached in the evening. I took tea with Br 
McGuffee. Sister Mary Holebrook is on a visit at our house for a few days attending meeting 
with us to [ ]. 6 m. 

llthQI recieved one letter & wrote to Br Ure & John Pilling. I visited the Liverpool zoological 
gardens with Mrs Woodruff. 4. 

12th [] } I wrote two letter & recieved two. Wrote to Grocott & Armstrong. I looked over * the 
account of the Book of Mormon & the following is the result: There are now on the shelves 793 
And on Wards Books not yet got pay for 107 And W Woodruff has recieved pay for 38 since 
Hedlock deliverd them to him Making 938 in all that W. Woodruff will account for And 160 R 
Hedlock recieved pay for after H Clark Deliverd them into his hands. Sum total 1,098 that 
Hedlock recieved. Clarks Bill was 1,174 against Hedlock though not Counted Loss 76 or mistake 
somewhare. 

'T'-Jf My feelings have been often hurt since my arival in Liverpool by the unkind feelings & 
speeches made towards me by Elders Hedlock, Ward & Wilson Conseming business matters 
myself and the Twelve. It is hard to be grieved & wounded in the House of those that should be 


Page371 




our friends but Joseph Hiram & the Twelve have had much of this to bear in the rise & Progress 
of this Church. 4. 

13th [] } I recieved 2 letters & wrote to Johnson & Stratton. Mrs Woodruff has been quite sick for 
two days with the bowel Complaint. It is a wet day. 4. 

14th [] Recieved 2 letters. 4. 

15th } Wrote 3 letters. 4. 

16th [] } Recieved 3 wrote 4 letters. 4. 

17th Sunday I was accompanied by the Newton Saints to Warrington. I preached in the morning 
communed in the Afternoon & preached in the evening after which I walked home with the 
Newton Saints [4/5?] miles across green fields & plesent walks. I fell into a deep pleasing train 
of meditation concerning the kingdom of God the A keys thereof endowments &c while going to 
my place of rest but after retiring to rest I was taken sick which lasted 4 hours. I slep but little 
during the night. Distance to Warrington & back to Newton. 24 m. 

[ ] 

Aug 19th [] :]■ I recieved 2 letters & wrote 2 one to E. H. Davis. I retired to rest at night or sought 
for it but found it not for I was much troubled in spirit, about several things. I do not recieve that 
union & kind treatment from my councel-lors that I ought to recieve at there [hands]. They do not 
consider my place & standing & sustain me in it in the way they ought, & are not united with me 
with that union that belongs to the Law of the celestial kingdom. This grieves Me in spirit for the 
judgments are about to be poured out upon the Nations and we ought to be prepared & have no 
division among us. 

I arose at midnight & called upon the Lord by supplication according to the Holy Priesthood And 
the Lord manifested some things unto me. 4. 

20th [] I recieved 4 letters to day & wrote 4. 1 had a grievious day even grieved in spirit. When 
will men leam wisdom & know their place and keep it? 4 m. 

21th I spent the day at the office. 4. 

22d I took cars. Rode to Manchester. Spent the night at Br Sheldon with Br Holmes. 30 m. :]■ 
Wrote to Ward & Phebe. 

23d Rode to Sheffield in company with Elder Holmes via Railroad & coach over the Hills. 40 m. 

Minutes of the Sheffield Conference 

The Sheffield Conference of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints met at the Assembly 
rooms at 10 oclock this 24th day of Aug There being present one of the Twelve one Patriarch, 2 
High Priest, 5 Elders 15 Priest 7 Teachers 3 Deacons. Elder Ure was Called to the Chair. Elder 


Page372 




Elijah Mitchell Clerk. Conference opened by singing and Prayer when the following 
representation was given: 



members 

Elders 

T 

P 

D 

Baptized 

Sheffield represented 

206 

3 

10 

6 

2 

36 

Mattersea ” 

50 

1 

2 

1 

1 

4 

Grindley 

16 

0 

2 

0 


1 

Woodhouse " 

42 

1 

5 

3 

2 

4 

Doncaster 

21 

1 

4 

0 

1 

3 

Donnington 
Chesterfield " 

48 

1 

3 

0 

1 

8 

Scattered " 

11 

4 






394 

11 

26 10 

7 

56 



All or nearly so were represented in good standing. Scholars of the Sunday School to the amount 
of 60 was present. 12 were Confirmed & 2 ordained Priest under the hands of Elders Woodruff 
Holmes Ure & Albertson. Elder Woodruff Preached in the evening & was followed by Elder 
Holmes my old friend. We had a good time. A large Congregation out. The prospect is good in 
the Sheffield Conference. 

I dined with Br Mitchell & spent the night with Br Thompson. 

25th In company with Elders Holmes, Ure, Roger & Travis we walked through the city. Went 
through the simetry. From there to the Cholery Monument erected in memory of the many 
hundreds of townsmen who wer suddenly Cut down with the Cholery & buried in deep pitts. 

They were treated in the following manner: When any were taken unwell they were Carried in a 
basket to the poor House. The docters stood ready gave brandy & laudlure & when they got 
stupifyed & still was generally supposed to be dead was immediately put into a box & buried. 
Some come to while going to the grave & were liberated from their coffins & are living yet. 
Probably many were buried alive. 10 m. 

In the evening Elder Holmes preached upon the reign of Christ. I followed him. We both had a 
good time. 

26 I spent the day or the fore part of it in visiting various Parts of Sheffield. I visited the grinding 
of raisers, Knives, shears, files & the Sheffield Cutlery. From there we visited the cutlery show 
room which was splendid. Scissors & Shears from half an inch in length to 3 feet, raisers ah sizes 
& lengths from half an ounce to 20 pounds Carving knives & forks from one inch to 3 feet, pen 
knives from half an inch to 3 feet. One contained 1,800 Blades. Cost was £500 or $2,500. 
Another knife Containing four hundred large blades upon which were engraved a representation 
of Boston New York & many American cities & statesman Also those of Scotland England & 
Europe. It was the most Costly Article in the room. It was three years in making. Cost was 


Page373 




£1,800 or $9,000. 


After visiting this room & parting with the Saints we took rail road & went to the mountain. 

Took coach road over the mountain then rail road to Manchester. Spent the night with Br 
Sheldon. Distance of the day 45. 

27th I spent the day in Manchester. Dined with Mr Holebrook & took tea with Br Shelden. Then 
Parted with Br Holebrook Br Holmes & the Saints. Took cars rode to Liverpool & spent the night 
at home. 30 m. 

28th [] ^ I recieved 3 letters & wrote 3 and spent the day at the office. 4. 

29th } [] I recieved 2 letters & wrote 2. 1 went to the Clarence Dock in the evening to meet Br [ 

] Annstrong but he did not come. I recieved two pair of raisors from Br Thompson of Sheffield. 
One pair was from Henry Thompson bearing the following inscription: W. Woodruff & the other 
Pair was from Thomas Hardy bearing the following inscription: W. Woodruff. A A, [four keys 
crossed in the center forming a circle ]. They were both an excellent article. * 

f I wrote one letter to Br Dwight Webster. 

30th [] } I recieved 3 letters & wrote 3 & in the evening I took cars with my wife and Joseph the 
young Child and rode to Preston during which time we had a view of the commencement of the 
English harvest. We saw many fields of wheat and oats & grass cut and put up. It was a piesent 
ride indeed. I met Br Hardy at the station. He accompanied us to Sister Greens whare we spent 
the night. Distance 35 m. 

Aug 3 1st Preston Conference met at the cock pit or Temperence Hall at half past 10 oclok on 
Sunday the 3 1 Aug. Elder Leonard Hardy was Chosen President. John Fawley Clerk. Their were 
present 1 of the Twelve, 1 of the Seventies 15 Elders 18 Priest, 13 Teachers & 2 Deacons. 
Conference opened with singing and Prayer After which we herd the following representations 
were given: 



Members 

Elders 

Priests 

Teachers Deacons 

Baptized 

Preston, L. Hardy 

355 

11 

11 

9 4 

16 

Longton, J Gardner 

17 


2 



Euxton, J Brinley 
Layland Moss, 

16 


1 

1 


J Langton 

35 

1 

1 


10 

Heskin, Joseph Gill 
Hunters Hill, 

19 

1 


1 

2 

W Springfellow 

8 


2 


10 

Kendall, Wm. Stewart 

26 

1 

1 

1 


Brigsteer, J. Kitchen 

7 


1 

1 


Holme, Thos Peck 

18 

1 

2 


1 


Page374 




Lancaster, J Bathersby 20 1 1 2 6 

Southport J. Loyd 21 2 1 1 

Total 542 18 23 16 4 45 

In the Afternoon there was two ordained to the office of Priest & 6 Confirmed & 2 Children 
blessed under the hands of Elders Woodruff and Hardy. As Elder Hardy was about to leave Elder 
John Melling was appointed the Presiding Elder over the Preston Branch & John Holsall 
Presiding Elder over the conference for the time being. Perfect union prevailed through the 
Conference. Elder W. Woodruff addressed the assembly in the evening upon the last Chapter of 
Malachi. Much of the spirit of God rested upon the People. 

Leonard Hardy President 
John Fawley Clerk 

I ordained 2 Priest confirmed 5 Blessed 3 children laid hands upon 6 that were sick. Spent the 
night with my family at Mother Creers. 8 m. 

September 

Sept 1st I took a long walk with Elders Hardy Speakman, Holsath Melling and a number of 
others down the River & Charterd a boat to take us up. On the way we took in Mrs Woodruff & 
Sister Jane Ann Wallace. We dined with Sister Creer & Parted with the Saints. Took cars 
returned to Liverpool & spent the night at home. Distance 40 m. 

2d □ 4 1 recieved 6 letters on my returned to the office & wrote 5. Elders James Ure & Rogers 
went home with me at night. 5 m. 

3d 0 4 1 recieved 4 letters & wrote 4. Spent the day at the office. 4 m. 

4th [] f f I recieved three letters & wrote 3 American letters one to G. A. Smith. Sent him 3 Boxes 
steel pens 1 1/2 dozen pen holders. Whole Bill £0.10.0. 1 wrote John & Jane Benbow A letter. 
Sent him A peace of linen of 27 yards 1/3 £1.13.9 as A present from W & P W. Woodruff. We 
also sent Will-ford jr. A peace of flannel 3 yards 1/ £0.3.0 & sundry other Articles with John 
Benbows package. We wrote Wm. Clayton A letter. Sent him a peace of linen of 26 yards 1/5 
£1.16.10 A veil £1.1.0. Total £2.17.10. This Bill of Wm. Claytons was sent by his express order 
out of the Temple funds & he would pay it inNauvoo. The three before mentioned packages was 
sent by James Houston going direct to Nauvoo on Board of the Ship Oregon. We also sent cloth 
by Br John Annstrong to make a suit of Clothes for Wilford Woodruff jr. at Br Benbows. He was 
to make the cloths himself. The Bill for him was £1.10.0. 

We have chartered the ship Oregon. She will Sail in few days with Saints. Numbers have come in 
today. 5. 

5th [] } I recieved 3 letters. Wrote 2 one to Peter McCue one to Martha Sutliff infonning her that 


Page375 



Amos Fielding is not president of the Church in Britain or of the Temple funds As I was 
informed that she was holding on to the Temple Funds to give to him. I went on board of the 
Ship Oregon & picked out A berth for Br John Annstrong & Eliza Emms & two other sisters. 4 
m. 

6th Brother & Sister Armstrong Arived to day to go on board of the Oregon & numbers of others. 
I recieved three letters & wrote three. [] } We forwarded Elder Lorenzo D. Bames Trunk to 
President Young at Nauvoo by Elder James Houston. We Could not find the Key & think the 
lock is broke. Sisters Emms Daniels & Cox arived at about midnight. I took theirs things in at the 
office & they spent the night at our house. Distance of the day 7 m. } I wrote one letter to B 
Young & J Houston. I spoke upon some affairs of the Kingdom. A 

Sept 7th Sunday I met with the Saints in the after noon at the Music Hall. About 60 of the 
emegrants were present and many others of the visiting Saints. Sacrament was administered & 
the testimony of many of the visiting brethren was heard. In the evening Elder James D Ross 
spoke about 40 minutes & I followed him & had a good time. Mrs Woodruff has been quite 111 
for a day or two. Was quite poorly today. 

8th [] } I recieved 3 letters & wrote 4. It was A busy day. Elders Hardy & Ross spent the evening 
with me. Mrs Woodruff was confined to her bed through the day. 4. 

9th [] } A I recieved 4 letters & wrote three one to Dan Jones. Mrs Woodruff wrote one to J. 
Benbow. 4. 

10th } I wrote one letter to Stratton & Sheets. 4. 

1 1th [] } I wrote 2 letters & recieved 2. The Ship Oregon cleared to day with 53 Saints. 4. 

12th [] } Ship Oregon drew out into the river to day. I recieved 3 letters & wrote 2.4. 

13 I paid Capt Dan Jones £20 to day on his order. I parted with him. He goes to wales. I took cars 
with my wife & two children & rode to Manchester. Stoped for the night 43 Lombard street at Br 
Sheldens. I here found Elders Holmes & Hardy. 34. 

[14] Manchester quarterly Conference 

Met on Sunday the 14th Sept at there usual place of meeting. There were present 1 of the quorum 
of the Twelve 2 High Priest 1 of the seventies 25 Elders 24 Priest 18 Teachers 5 Deacons. Elder 
Milton Holmes was Chosen President. Elder Wm. Walker Clerk. 

Conference opened by singing & prayer After which we herd the following branches represented: 
Members Elders Priest Teachers Deacon 

Baptized 

Manchester 511 10 15 12 3 20 


Page376 




Stockport 

174 

4 

7 

6 

2 

24 

Ashton 

93 

3 

6 

2 

3 

4 

Duckenfield 

62 

1 

5 

1 

2 

6 

Newton Moor 

69 

2 

2 

2 

2 

3 

Mottram 

28 

3 

2 

1 

1 


Torrington 

89 

2 

6 

3 


4 

Leith 

25 

1 

3 

1 

1 

4 

Haslington 

18 

1 

1 

1 

I 

2 

Brightmet Fold 

16 

1 

2 




Bury 

97 

1 

5 

2 

1 

26 

Oldham 

112 

2 

9 

4 

2 

1 

Rochdale 

35 

I 

4 

1 

1 

3 

Eccles 

17 


2 

1 


3 

Pendlebury 

46 

3 

2 

2 



Little Heaton 9 

1 

1 

1 




Ratcliff 

20 

1 

2 

1 



Cross Moor 

48 

1 

3 

2 

1 

1 

Middleton 

26 

1 

2 

2 



Didsbury 

21 


1 


1 

1 

Crompton Fold 

46 

1 

5 

3 

1 

8 

Whitfield 

19 

1 

1 

1 

1 


Edgworth Moor 

7 

1 





Bolton 

181 

3 

12 

9 

4 

5 

Total 

1,764 

44 

99 

57 

27 

115 


Resolved that Thomas Bradshaw & Henry Druce now holding the office of A Priest be ordained 
to the office of Elders. 

Moved & carried unanimously that William Walker be appointed for the time being as President 
over the Manchester branch. 

Resolved that James D. Ross be appointed for the time being as President over the Manchester 
Conference. 

Most of the branches were represented in good Standing & in unity. 

Sacrament was administered in the afternoon & two ordained & one confirmed under the hands 
of Elders Woodruff & Ross. A recommendation was read and presented to Elder M. Holmes by 
the unaimous vote of the whole Conference. 

Milton Holmes President 
Wm Walker Clerk 


Page377 




I preached in the evening to a full house And made an address to the elders. Mrs Woodruff 
attended meeting twice through the day. 

15th I spent the day in Manchester with Elders Holmes & Ross. We took tea with friend 
Holebrook. 

In company with Mrs Woodruff & others friends I went through the Manchester Museum. 

Among other Curiosities we saw the representation in glass of the Largest diamond in the world 
now in the possession of the Emperor of Russia about the size of a turkeys egg valued at 
£125,000,000 pound sterling or $625,000,000 dollars. 

During the evening we rode to Newton & spent the night with Br Simpkins. 20 m. 

16th [] (Sarah Carter) I took Cars rode to Liverpool And on my arival to the office I recieved two 
Nauvoo Neighbors one times & Seasons & New York Messenger all bearing good news of the 
spread of the work in America But while in the midst of rejoicing we often have some sorrow. I 
recieved two letters one from Ilus F Carter & one from Father Ezra Carter both giving an account 
of the Sudden Death of Sarah Carter his wife (& our Mother) who departed this life without a 
struggle or groan or moving hand or foot at a quarter past 1 1 oclok AM on the 2 1 day of July 
Aged 70 years 3 months & 13 days. 

[ ] 

17th [] } I reeleyed 4 letters & wrote 4 to friends abroad. 

18th [] } I recieved 4 letters to day & wrote 4 one to M Holmes containing 16 Reciepts for 
Temple Money for the Manchester Confernce. The spirit of the devil is manifesting itself in some 
of the Churches abroad at the Present time. A priest in the Glasgow Conference has published a 
work denying the attonement of Christ. James Gallet has surrendered his Presidency in the 
Mackelsfield Conference. Father Crook over the Birmingham Conference gets drunk & fights 
with the Saints and thus the enemy is trying to creep in to the midst of the Saints at the present 
time. 

Mrs Woodruff come home with her Children in the evening well & cherfull & spent the night. I 
did not inform her of the death of her Mother wishing her to get rested first. 4. 

19th [] } I recieved 2 letters & wrote 2.4. 

20th [] ^ I recieved 3 letters & a Pamphlet written by T. S. Barr Priest entirely denying] the 
Attonement of Christ. I wrote an answer to him sent to Elder Drummond & also to P McCue to 
immediately Cut him of from the Church & kept a copy of the same. I wrote him A letter to Elder 
Davis of London Also to Mr Daniels Infonning him that Caroline Cox did recieve a £3 three 
pound order from her father. 

I went to the Post office & had the Books searched & had the testimony of the clerks that she had 


Page378 




recieved the order & money on it while she had declaired to me that she had not recieved and 
actully signed a statement of this kind to her father which was no better than a lie bill. She has 
sustained herself through the whole of it upon fals-hood. 

In the evening Mrs Woodruff found the letter sent us from Father Carter & I F. Carter containing 
the account of the death of her Mother. I intended to have shown them to her in the morning but 
left them in the tray of my trunk whare she found them. It was a sudden blow to her. She did not 
sleep any through the night. She was vary much attached to her Mother. 

21st Sunday I spent the day at home with my family through the day & evening. Mrs Woodruff 
was more composed concerning the death of her Mother & slep comfortible during the night. We 
had both dreamed of loosing teath which is generally a sign of a death of some friend. 

22d [] } I recieved three letters & wrote 4. 1 recieved A Pamphlet from Glasgow Scotland written 
by T. S. Barr A Priest denying the attonement or Blood of Christ As being necessary for the 
redemption of man. I wrote letters in reply. 4. 

23d [] } I wrote three letters to friends. I recieved by Amos Fielding 7 letters from Nauvoo from 
Kimball Webster Ells & Br Young And the remainder of the Times & Seasons from Br John 
Taylor to finish out the whole of the Vth volumn. I went down to get them through the custom 
house & one man that seemed to be assisting in examining the things was full of the devil & 
madness on seeing the T & Seasons containing the History of Joseph Smith. He cursed & swore 
at me all the time I was getting them through the Custom House. It was An unpleasant day in 
some respets but may the Lord reward him according to his work. 4. 

24 Q 4 1 recieved 2 letters & wrote 2. 1 spent the day recording in the Temple Book & night 
writing an answer to Barr’s Heresy. 4. 

25th Mrs John Emmins called upon us this morning & wished us to call over the river Mercy & 
pay them a visit. 

[] } I recieved 2 letters & wrote 2 & spent most of the night writing An answering Bart Pamphlet. 
4. 

26th [] I recieved 2 letters. In company with Mrs Woodruff & Child I took Cab. Rode to St 
Georges Peer. Took steemer. Went into the river Mercy along side of the steemer Great Britain. 
While taken in passengers the steemer we were in came near being Crushed between the great 
Britain & a 1,000 ton ship. We narrowly escaped from this. 

We landed at Rock ferry oposite Liverpool & Called upon Br John Enion A Gentleman & A 
worthy man & Saint. I took a walk through the place in the afternoon which was exeeding plesant 
As the whole country is bulding up with Mansions & plesent Gardens & parks. We spent the 
night vary plesently with Br Enion. 8 m. 

2?th [] I recieved 4 letters & wrote 6 to friends. Before I left Br Enions in the morning He gave 


Page379 




me £10 in gold for the Temple for which the Lord will bless him. I left Mrs Woodruff there. 
Crossed the river. Spent the day at the office. Went home in the evening. From thence returned to 
the Peer. Took boat at night crossed the river & spent the night at Br Enions. I got the 10 No of 
the New York Messenger. Distance of the [day] 12 miles. 

28th Sunday I spent the day in Tranmere. I preached in the morning communed in the Afternoon 
& Preached in the evening to a full House. A good impression was made. I dined & spent the 
night at Br Enions. 4. 

29 n 4 1 recieved 4 letters one from President B. Young bearing good news. All right at Nauvoo. I 
wrote 3 letters. Spent the day at the office & night at home. 5. 

301 recieved 2 letters & wrote 2 one to Elder Stratten. 

October 

Oct 1 st Q 4 1 recieved 4 letters & wrote 6 . Spent the day at the office. 4. 

2d □ 4 1 recieved 5 letters & wrote 4 letters. 4. 

3d 0 4 1 recieved 4 letters & wrote 3.4. 

4th [] I recieved 2 letters And in company with Elder Hedlock I took cars & rode to Lemington 
whare we arived in the night. Distance 140 m. 

5th Sunday I met with the Lemington Conference this day in Lemington at 1 1 oclok. There being 
present one of the Twelve & one Counsellor 6 Elders 3 Priest 2 Teachers and 2 Deacons. W. 
Woodruff was Chosen President & Thomas Smith Chosen Clerk. Conference opened by singing 
& Prayer After which four Branches were represented containing: 

e p t d 


92 Members 4 5 13 and 6 Baptized. 

There were 2 ordained to the office of A Priest and one to the office of Deacon under the hands 
of the President. Council was also given from the Chair. The Afternoon was occupied in 
Partaking of the Sacrament. Confirmed one & blessed one Child & gave instruction to the 
Conference. 

The congregation was addressed in the evening by the President, & followed by Elder Hedlock. 
We had a good time, full House good attention. A good impression was made through the whole 
Conference upon the minds of a large Audience of Respectible citizens. The congregations who 
had assembled for several evenings before had raised a mob & broke down the banister around 
the stairs benches tables &c but they were vary Still while we were there. 


W. Woodruff President 
Thomas Smith Clerk 


Page380 




Lemington is A Town mostly sustained by the Nobility & gentry in consequence of the Sulpher 
Springs that it Contains the Same as the Saratoga springs in America. The Streets and buildings 
are splended. 

Oct 6th In company with about a dozen Saints I visited the Warwich Castle & Tower & went 
through each appartment of them. It is considerd the most splendid Castle in England & is 
furnished with all the splender that the art & gold of Earldom could present. The main body of 
the castle was 333 feet long divided into several rooms. The walls were hung with the most 
splendid tapestry, rooms furnished with the richest Damask Covered Chairs, Tables & Stands 
overlaid with pearl Shell & precious stones some of which cost £15,000 Pounds each & would 
take 3 years to make it. This castle contained a great variety of Paintings of the Kings Queens 
Lord oretors & Reformers among which was the founder of the Jesuits. 

From the windows of this castle we could look out upon the most Noble & Stately Ceders of 
Lebenon Deah & firs and other Shrubery the Pleasurer grounds of 40 Acres and A park of 5 
miles in Circumferance. This castle was 800 years old And the Tower was 500 years old, & 150 
feet high. We went to the top of it & had a splendid view of all the surrounding country. 

In a small room at the enterance of the castle we had a view of the Armoury of the celebrated 
Guy. His helmet brestplate & Shield weighs 120 pounds and his sword weighs 20 lbs. His Coper 
poragepot holds 120 gallons. Six grown person of us sat inside of it at one time. 

In the evening I took cars in company with Elder Hedlock & rode to Binningham. On our arival 
we found Elder Crook waiting for us. We accompanied him to the Hall of the Saints whare we 
found between 4 & 500 Saints sitting at a tea table. 

As we entered the door the claping of hands & Stamping of feet made the room tremble. It was 
with difficulty I could get to the stand, as all wished to shake hands with me as I passed along. 
After taking a repast with this lovely band of brethren I addressed them for about one hour 
Clothed with the Spirit & Power of God. I was followed by Elder Hedlock & we had a good 
time. 

After dismissing the congregation I requested the officers to stop & all the witnesses that were 
needed in two cases that were appealed unto us. We heard the cases & testimony upon them & 
gave the same decission that was given before but we found that there had been to much gin & 
brandy and ale at the bottom of the difficulty and the presiding Elder had taken to much of it 
himself. Elder Hedlock spoke upon the subject & said he considerd there was two much gin in it. 
When he closed, the Presiding Elder mounted him rough shod to ride him down or oppose him in 
the sentiment. 

I knowing the sentiment to be true felt deter-min to sustain Elder Hedlock in the position he had 
taken And As I rose to speak the power of God rested upon me And I spoke for about ten minutes 
As with the voice of God for I was constrained by the voice of spirit of God thus to speak & 


Page381 




reprove sin. When I closed the Council felt that it was right. 

I put a veto upon there drinking Ardent spirits & Mault liquor to assist them to preach the gospel. 
Several told me at the close that I had opened there eyes upon the Subject. We had a good time & 
A profitable meeting. We spent the night at Br. [ ]. Distance of the day 25. 

7th I left the Binningham Saints. Rode to Liverpool. Had a rainy day. I recieved 6 letters. Wrote 
2. [] } Spent the night at home. Distance 100. 

8th [] } I recieved 2 letters & wrote 6 letters 3 to America to Wm. W. Phelps Hiram Kimball & J 
Taylor & 2 to Father Carter & Shuah Moulton. 4. 

9th [] } I recieved 4 letters & wrote 3 letters & sent the 8 No of the Star to many friends. 2. 

10th [] Recieved 3 letters & wrote 4. 2. 

1 1th Sunday I wrote a peace for the Star & spent the day at home. 

12th [] } I recieved 4 letters & wrote 3 to Elders Holmes, Hardy, Crump, & A. Fielding took tea at 
my house. 

13th I had much company during the day. Elder Hardy spent the night at my house. 

14th Tuesday I went to the office. Soon Mrs Enion brought our Child Susan. I took cab rode 
home with them. Spent one hour & returned to the office. 

I spent the Afternoon with the directers of the British & American Joint Stock Company with our 
Advisor to prepare the articles for regestration. I was the first director Apointed. Many of our 
friends wer in from various parts of the kingdom. After taking supper At the office the board of 
Directors sat untill 9 oclok discussing the subject before us. I then returned home & spent the 
night. 10 m. 

15th The board of Directors met at 10 oclock. We set all day & evening untill near midnight. It 
was A hard days work And a critical one But we got through it. Each article of the Deed of 
Settlement preparing for regestration was read over several times, changed and Altered as the 
Board of Directors thought fit. It has been much labour & care & experts to get this joint stock 
company settled so as to being to do business. 

I had much company all day. I had many trying things to encounter. My spirit was grieved and 
insulted And it has been many times since I came to Liverpool 'T-Jf from a scourse that I ought to 
expect better things. 4. 

16 [] } I received 4 letters & wrote 3 & had a busy disagreable day. 4. 

17th ([]}}) I recieved 6 letters one from Freedom & Shuah Moulton. We got Nauvoo Times & 
Neighbour & New York Messenger Informing us of the Commencing of mobing once more in 
Hancock County. The mob had burned 42 of the Houses of the Saints in Lima. I wrot A letter to 


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O. Pratt & S Brannan one to Freedom & Shuah Moulton, one to Father Carter, to Sarah B. Foss. I 
sent sister Foss £2 in a letter And Mrs Woodruff sent to Phebe 12/6 in the same letter Also a 
Bundle of Clothing to Phebe all of which was sent to her by Br Holmes or it was put in his care. I 
sent to Brannon £0. 16.8 To pay for two copies of the Messengers. 

18th [] } I recieved 4 letters & wrote 4. 1 got a dinner for my American Brethren to meet at my 
house before they set sail for America. Elders Holmes Hardy & Clark were present & dined with 
me at 5 oclok. I sat up writing untill after midnight. 

19th Sunday [] } I recieved 3 letters & wrote 4. Elders Hardy and Holmes went on board of the 
Ship this morning. We recieved A rumour this morning through the Liverpool Papers that the 
mob was raging in Hancock County had burned from 70 to 300 Houses & that A proposition had 
been made by the Twelve to the citizens of Hancock that they would leave the County as soon as 
they could have time to dispose of theire property. These are strange times we live in. When will 
the mob seease & the saints live in peace? I attended meeting in the Afternoon & preached in the 
evening from the 102 Psalm. 

20 Q 4 1 recieved 4 letters & wrote 4. Had A summons to pay taxes on the house I live [in] for AD 
1844. 1 was then in America. 4. 

2 1 [] ^ I recieved 4 letters today & wrot 4. My labours & cares are vary great that are resting upon 
me at this time. Elder Dearden came & rehearsed his old complaint in the Mackelsfield 
conference & wished us to try it over again. 4. 

(P [..])(Apostles) Proclamation of the Twelve Apostles. 

22 [] ^ I recieved 4 letters & wrote 3. 1 sent one letter to Elder Dan Jones containing the first 
copies of the Proclamation of the Twelve Apos-ties. I ordered Twenty thousand to be printed in 
English. The first Copy came to me to day which I immediately sent to Capt Dan Jones to be 
published in the welch language. 

This is the proclamation to All the Kings of World & rulers & people of All nations. May the 
Lord make it a blessings to All nations. This Proclamation is made by the Twelve Apostles in 
fulfillment of the Revelations & Commandments of God. See Doctrins & Covenants sections 
CIII: 1 paragraph Math 22 ch. 5 vers. This is A warning to the whole gentile world that they may 
be left without excuse in the day of Gods Judgment upon the nations. I thank God that I am an 
instrument in his hands of printing & Circulating this important Proclamation through Britain & 
Europe. 

23d [] ^ I recieved 3 letters. Wrote 2. 4. 

24th ? I met with Elders Hedlock & Ward this morning & laid before them the feelings of my 
whole Soul Concerning our situation in Liverpool both temporally & Spiritually. Their had been 
quit a misunderstanding among us for six month We had not bowed our knees together for that 
length of time but I told the brethren what I wished to de done And it seemed to be a profitable 


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meeting. At the close we bowed our knees together & had prayers, And we came to an 
understanding of each other. 4. 

25 □ f I recieved 3 letters & wrote 2. Spent the day at the office. 4. 

26th Sunday I went to meeting And spoke in the Afternoon & was followed by Elder Ward & 
Cuerden. We had a good meeting. I preached in the evening after Elder Marsden And had a good 
time. 4. 

27th I spent the day at the office looking over the Temple Books. I Commenced receiving 
Temple [donations] on the 20 day of Aug And balanced my Books this day And up to this date 
being two month & 7 Days And I recieved for the Temple during that time £157.16.8 1/4. The 
Proclamation of the Twelve Apostles is out of press And we are now sending it to the clergy And 
circulating it whare we can. What the effect will be time must detennin. 4. 

I should judge from my feelings And intimations of the spirit of God that the endowment had 
comericed & that the Lord had commenced pouring out some special blessings upon the Saints in 
Nauvoo but time will detennin whether this is the case. My soul has been much refeshed and 
edefyed of late in reading the Book of Mormon. The time has come for its sayings to be fulfilled. 

28th [] :]■ I recieved three Nauvoo Letters to day one from W. W. Phelps one from Margarrett T 
Smoot & one from G. A. Smith. All were interesting & edifying. I made extracts from them for 
the Star. I wrote 3 letters. I also recieved the 13 No of the Messenger. 

29th [] } I recieved 3 letters & wrote 3. 1 had another conversation with Elder Hedlock upon the 
affairs of the office. I done up the 9 No of the Star & proclamations to [of] the Twelve to Phelps 
Elias Smith Joseph Young, Webster, Fathers Woodruff & Carter, I F Carter Ezra Carter Azmon 
Woodruff B Cossett L. Wheeler & Charles Lyman Sarah B. Foss Joseph F. Carter Freedom 
Moulton Ozem Woodruff. 

:]■ I wrote A letter to W. W. Phelps in answer to his. I wrote in the same letter with Elder Young. I 
sent Proclamations to Rev Noah Porter, Henry Woodford Luther Wheeler Geo Cowles P M S 
Deming, Charles & to many others. 

Oct 30th [] I recieved 3 letters, wrote to Davis H Clark & others 4 in all. I recieved A Neighbor & 
N. York Messenger speaking of the mob in Hancock County Illinois against the Saints. Said that 
the gentile mob had burned about 105 of the buildings of the Saints And that the Saints had taken 
up arms against the mob according to the laws & commands of God & officers of the Land. 

Three or four of the mob had been killed, And the rest wer fleeing to Missouri & other counties 
of Illinois. 


November 

Nov 1st □ 4 Recieved three letters & wrote 2 letters. My youngest son Joseph is vary sick And 
has been for two or three days past. I anointed him with consecrated oil & laid hands upon him & 


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rebuked his desease. He was some better. 


{Book of Mormon 0 sacred treasure who knoeth the value?} 

2d Sunday I Wilford Woodruff Son of Aphek Woodruff have read the Book of Mormon much 
during the Last twelve years of my life And my soul de-lighteth much in its words teaching and 
Prophesyings And in its Plainness. I rejoice in the goodness and mercy of the God of Israel In 
Preserving the precious Book of Mormon & bringing it to light in our day & generation. It 
teaches the honest & humble mind the great things of God that were perfonned in the land of 
promise now called America in Ancient days And also the great things of God that are nigh even 
at the doors Concerning the resteration of the Lamanites the knowledge of there linage & fore 
fathers when they will throw of the veil of ignorance darkness And superstition sease there 
customs of Idleness filtheness wars & contentions one with another And wake up out of there 
fourteen hundred years slumber of Darkness & Come to the knowledge of the true God which 
there fathers worshiped untill they fell into transgression. 

Also this Precious treasure sets Clearly before the honest reader the fate & Destiny of the 
American Nation And all the gentile Nations of the Earth. Unless they spedily repent of there 
sins & humble themselves before God they will be destroyed from of the land. 

The Jews Are also spedily to be gatherd home & Jerrusalem rebuilt to be prepared for the coming 
of the Mesiah their King. 

Great and important events are nigh even at the doors with both Jew and Gentile. The 
commencment of this great work & dispensation was like a grain of mustard seed even small. 

The Plates containing the Book of Mormon was revealed to Joseph Smith & deliverd unto him 
By an Angel of God in the month of September 1827 & translated through the Urim & 
Thum-mim into the English language by Joseph Smith the Prophet Seer & revelator who was 
raised up out of the loins of Ancient Joseph to esstablish this work in the last days. 

The first branch of the Church was esstablished on the 6th day of April AD 1830. As the Church 
increased in numbers persecution began to increase. The Evening & morning Star was published 
in Jackson Co Mo. Commenced June 1832 ending Sept AD 1834 during which time the Saints 
had to pass through a great persecution. Had their houses & property burned. 

The Messenger And Advocate began to be Published in Kirtland Ohio October AD 1834 And 
ended with the Elders Journal Aug 3d 1838 during which time there was Also much Persecution 
Among the saints. During this Publication about 10,000 souls were driven in the fall of 1838 out 
of the State of Missouri into the State of Illinois. Numbers of them [were] shot & murdered for 
there faith. 

The Times & Season commenced in its Publication in the month of Nov 1839 in the town of 
Commerc, Afterwards name Nauvoo which is now City of Joseph. This Publication has 
continued from that time untill the present month Just five years being now on the VI volumn. 


Page385 




During this period the Saints have Also suffered much persecution. 

On the 27th Day of June 1844 Joseph Smith the Prophet & Hiram Smith the Patriarch of the 
Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints was basely shot & martered while in Prision whare 
they were Cast unlawfully by there persecuters. They were martered by An American Gentile 
mob And may the Lord Avenge there blood in his own time & way. The Prophet Joseph gave the 
quorum of the Twelve Apostles there endowment A few months befor his death. 

The wasp was Published commencing April 1842 ended April 1843 just one year. 

The Nauvoo Neighbor was published commencing on the 1st of May 1843 & has continued untill 
the present time. Is now in its third volumn. 

The Millennial Star was Published in Liverpool England commencing May 1840. Has been 
published untill the present time. Are now publishing the VI vol. 

The New York Prophet was first published on the 18 May 1844. Continued untill May 1845 Just 
one year. Its name was then Changed into the New York Messenger. The first No was struck off 
July 1845 & is published up to the present time. 

Thus from A little mustard seed the kingdom of God has grown in 1 5 years untill the sound 
thereoff has gone as it were over the earth. The Church are now publishing four Papers two 
weekly & two semi monthly. 

The Book of Mormon has had three editions published in America And only one in England. 
Doctrins & Covenants of Revelations of God given through his servant Joseph have been 
published in three editions in America And one [in] England. Both the book of Mormon & 
Covenants have been sterotyped. The bible has also been translated also the book of Abraham by 
the Prophet Joseph before his death. 

The Saints number in England Ireland Scotland wales & the Isle of Man about 12,000 souls 
besides their Children And about 50,000 souls in America besides their Children. We have small 
branches in Australia & the South Sea Islands besides. 

Other Publications we have published many thousands of the proclamations of the Twelve 
Apostles to the Kings Lords Presidents Rulers & people of all Nations. P. P. Pratt published 
many thousand of them in America. I Willford Woodruff Published 20,000 of them in Liverpool 
England. 

The Evening & Morning Star was first published in Missouri By W. W. Phelps & others 
Afterwards republi[shed] in kirtland Ohio by F G Williams &c. 

The Messenger & Advocate was published by F G Williams &c & Edited by 0 Cowdery untill 
the 9th No. It was then Edited by John Whitmer untill the II vol no 7 was again Edited by O 
Cowdery. 5 & 6 No of the 3d vol was published by J Smith & S Rigdon And Edited By W A 


Page386 




Cowdery & published by Wm. Marks to the end of the vol. 

The Elders Journal being ownly 4 No ever published was Edited by Joseph Smith & Published by 
Thomas B Marsh. 

The Times & Seasons was Edited & published by E Robinson & Don Carlos Smith untill the 4th 
No of the 2d vol which was Edited & published By D.C. Smith Alone untill the 13 No of the 2d 
vol when he was joined By Robert B Thompson untill the (20 No) which contains an account of 
the Death of the Noble Don Carloss Smith And the vary next No (No 2 1 vol 2) Also contains An 
account of the Death of Robert B Thompson. So in two weeks the Editors & Proprietors both 
died. It was then Edited & Published [by] E Robinson untill the 8th No & the 3d vol After which 
it was Edited And Published by Joseph Smith to the end of the third vol. The whole of the 4th vol 
was Edited & Published by John Taylor & Wilford Woodruff. And the 1 & 2d Nos of the 5 vol 
And from that time untill the Present the 5 & 6 vol has been Edited And Published by John 
Taylor. 

The first 3 1 Nos of the wasp was Published & Edited By Win. Smith. The remainder was Edited 
& Published by John Taylor & Willford Woodruff. 

The first vol of the Neighbor was Edited & published by J Taylor & W Woodruff. Since that time 
by J. Taylor. 

The Millennial Star was Edited And Published by P P Pratt untill the 6 No of the 3d vol. It was 
then Edited and Published by Thomas Ward to the end of the Vth vol. It was then Edited & 
Published by T Ward & W. Woodruff. 

The New York Prophet was Published the first 6 numbers by a committee called the board of 
controll. It was then Edited by William Smith And published by S Brannan from the loth No to 
the 26 After which S Brannan was both publisher And Editor to the 50 No after which it was 
Edited by P. P. Pratt. The New York Prophet is Published by S Brannan & Edited by P P Pratt. 

Thus endeth an account of the publications of our periodicals up to the present time. 

The Lord God has spoken Concerning Zion of the last days many great & glorious things By 
Isaiah & many other Prophets on the continant of Asia And Also by the Prophets And Apostles 
of Ancient days in America as well as in this last dispensation. Therefore Zion must arise and 
flourish for the Lord has spoken it. The gentiles know not the day of there visitation No more 
than the Ancient Jews did before there fall. But the day is at hand when they will feel the wrath 
of God for the bitter branches of the tree are about to be cut off to make room for the good fruit. 

The seed of Ephraim in the west will soon arise with Zion & put on her beautiful gannents. The 
House of the Lord shah be built upon the top of the mountains & many poeple will flow unto it 
And Ephraims Nobles will be of himself & his Govemer precede out of the midst of him. May 
the Lord hasten it in his time And fulfill his promises to Zion Jerresalem the House of Israel is 
the prayer of the Lords anointed. 


Page387 




2d Oct [sic] Sunday I attended meeting in the Afternoon & communed with the Saints & spoke to 
them. Our child has been vary sick for several days. We have lade hands upon it & anointed with 

011 in the name of the Lord And it is now recovering fast. 6. 

3d 0 4 1 recieved 3 letters from Glasgow & wrote 3. Elder Ward And myself went over the river 
to visit A vary sick sister with a fever. We rebuked her Complaint & left her in the hands of the 
Lord. We dined at Br Enions. I saw my Daughter Susan Cornelia who is living at Br Enions. 4. 

4th [] :]■ I recieved 3 letters & wrote 3. It was A Cold day. I called upon Br Suttons in the evening 
& spent several hours with him. I retired to rest & dreamed of being in A ship & a great storm 
arose And it seemed as though the ship would be swallowed up but it out lived the storm. I also 
Saw A large serpent which brought forth other serpents. 

5th G 4 D I recieved 3 letters & wrote 4. A cold day. I sent the 10 No of the Star to the Twelve 
Sisters Smoot & Hough to Webster & A Woodruff. 

6th [] :]■ I recieved 3 Letters & wrote 5. 1 began to study the French language this day as I find 
leasure moments. 

7th [] ^ I reeieved three letters & wrote 4. The cogitations of my mind while upon my bed this 
night will be found in the 1 1 No of the VI vol of the Star under the similitude of a dream. I Paid 
Mr James £20. 12.0 which paid All of the printers Bill for the printing of 300 Doctrins & 
Covenants. The whole Bill was £126.0.0. 

8th [] ^ I reeleyed 4 Letters & wrote 4 And prepared a peace for the 1 1 No of the Star. 

9th Sunday I attended meeting in the afternoon. At the close of the meeting we were called upon 
as a church to pay our last respects to the remains of A Deceased Brother who fell into the hole 
of a ship & was killed. His Name was [ ] Appleton. A Possession was formed of about 200. 

We walked before the Corps to the methodist Chapel whare there was several other Corpse. A 
methodist preacher deliverd A formel discourse over the dead bodies before him. When he closed 
the corpse was taken into the yard And lowered into a pit dug down some 20 feet. The pit is fdled 
nearly to the top with Coffins then it is filled up with dirt. 

10th [] :]■ I recieved 4 letters with orders for Proclamations. I wrote 3 letters. 4. 

1 1th [] ^ I recieved 3 letters. Wrote 4. 4. 

12 [] ^ I received 5 letters. Wrote 2. 

13th [] ^ I recieved 2 letters. Wrote 2. 1 went over the river Mercy Called upon Mr Farington & 
dined with Elders Hedlock & Ward. 10 m. 

■?$ 14th * [] f I recieved 4 letters. Wrote 3. 1 recieved the Nauvoo Neighbor of sept 24 And N 
York Messenger All bearing tidings of the procedings of the mob & that the saints were still 


Page388 




sustained in the city of Nauvoo But there seemed to be a desire to drive the Saints out of Illinois. 
In the evening I went over the river with Mrs Woodruff to see our daughter Susan at Br Enion. 8 
m. 

15 [] } I recieved 3 letters & wrote 3. 4. 16th Sunday I spent the day at Home. 

17th [][];}■ I recieved the New York Messenger saying much upon the affairs at Nauvoo the tennor 
of which was vary favorable towards the Saints But An Indian once Said the white man was vary 
uncertain And the Saints have generally found it to be so in the dealings of the American 
goverment towards us. I recieved 5 letters & wrote 4. 4. 

{18th [] f} I recieved three letters from Nauvoo this day one from President Brigham Young one 
to Br Clark one from Br Player. Br Young give me the painful Intelligence that the State of 
Illinois will not Protect them & the ownly terms of Peace they can have at all is to remove from 
the State. And the Presidency of the Church with the Church itself has been under the Necessity 
of Agreeing to leave the State next spring. Thus the State of Illinois And the whole United States 
have fdled up there Cup of Iniquity And well may the Saints go out of her midst As did Lot out 
of Sodom for her Judgment and destruction is equally sure. 

The Saints having built the Temple of the Lord & the City of Joseph Are now about to be drove 
out of it By the American Nation. This is a Strange Age we live in. The Bible & Book of 
Mormon Doctrins & Covenants are fast fulfilling upon the heads of this generation. Thus has 
American liberty with her proud eagle found a sepulchre there to remain untill resurrected by 
some power who will be proroped by virtue to Administer those laws in equity & Justice that the 
present Administrators have not moral Courage enough to maintain against the power of 
Mobocracy. 4. 

19th [] ^ I recieved 4 letters & wrote 8. 1 sent letters to all the American Elders in this land. 4. 

20th [] } I recieved 4 letters & wrote 10. Almost all the public Journals have sumthing to say 
upon the persecution of the Saints. 

2 1st [] ^ I recieved 5 letters & wrote 6. 1 had a vary busy day in packing up Books, Stars, 
proclamations &c. I read A letter to day from Br Brannan stateing that he had recieved Council to 
take his press in January & Ship for Callifornia around Cape Horn, so as to meet the brethren on 
the shores of the Pacific. He informs us that the whole Church of the Saints will leave the United 
States in the spring & go to Callifornia. May the Lord speed them on there way is my prayer. 

22 [] } } I wrote 2 letters to America this day one to S Brannan New York and one to President 
Brigham Young Asking his Council whether I shall tarry in England or go to America. I 
expressed my feeling about there oppressions in the United States. I sent him a copy of the 
entering of the Copy wright of the Book of Mormon & the Doctrins & Covenants. 

Requested Br Benbow to take along our little boy. I recieved 3 letters to day from the english 
brethren & recieved £16 from father Crook from the Saints in Binningham, mostly for the 


Page389 




Temple. I also recieved the 18th No of the Messenger which was highly interesting to us. May 
the Lord bless his Saints. 


23d Sunday We had an interesting meeting through the day at the Music Hall. I preached in the 
morning. Spoke in the Afternoon. Was followed by Br Ward. I ordained Br James R McGuffie to 
the office of An Elder. Blessed three Children. I Again preached in the evening. Was followed 
By Elders Ward & Hedlock. A good number of strangers were out who listened with good 
attention. Br & Sister Enion Dined with us. I walked during the day going & coming to & from 
meeting. 12 miles. 

24th [] } I recieved 4 letters & wrote 1 7 letters Notifying the Presiding Elders of the General 
conference to be heald at Manchester on the 14th day of Dec 1845. Br James Ferguson Assisted 
me in writing these letters. He has done considerable writing for me for some months. He is a 
worthy young man. 

25th [] } I recieved 4 letters & wrote 3. 4. 

26th [] } I received 3 letters. Wrote 5. 4. 

27 [] } I recieved 6 letters. Wrote 3. 1 went on board of the fire king & set sail for Glasgow. It was 
A rough night. I was vary sick & vomited much. 

28 I Arived in Greenock at 4 oclock. Took cars. Rode to Glasgow. Took supper with P McCue. 
Distance 125 miles. 

29th I was sum unwell through the day. I met in council with the officers in the Afternoon And 
informed them of my intention to leave England the first of January to go to America to get my 
children & redeem my father & Mother from Babylon. 

30th Sunday I met in Conference with the Glasgow Saints & had an interesting time through the 
day & evening. I herd represented [ ] Branches containing 1,181 members including 1 H. P. 

44 Elders 31 Priests 40 Teachers And 30 Deacons. 68 Baptized since last conference. This is one 
of the most interesting Conference in the british Isles. We had about 800 persons present through 
the day. 

I spent the night at No 23 High Street in company with Elder John Banks. I dined with Elder 
Drummond. Distance of the day 6 m. 


December 

Dec 1st I spent the time in Glasgow. Visited several that were sick. Administered unto them. It 
was a cold rainy day. 5. 

2d I took cars rode to Greennock then took steemer & rode towards Liverpool. I was exceding 


Page390 




sick through the night. 

3d I was vary sea sick this morning. We arived at Liverpool about 12 oclock. I took cab went 
home sick. Distance 125. 

4th I went to the office. Recieved 12 letters. Wrote 10 one to Father & Mother Woodruff [] } } 
one to Sister Sarah B. Foss. I invited father & Mother Woodruff to go with me. 4. 

It was A vary busy day with me. I brought £80 with me from Scotland to the office. £43 was for 
the joint stock £12 for Emegration the remainder for Books &c. 

Dec 5th [] } I wrote [ recieved ] 4 letters. Wrote 3. 

6th [] } I wrote 2 letters. Recieved 2. 

7th Sunday I Attended meeting in the Afternoon & spoke to the people. Had a good time. I 
preached in the evening to a good congregation in the Music Hall. A plot was laid to assault me 
at the Close of the meeting but the plan of the wicked was frustrated. 

8th [] } I recieved 5 letters. Wrote 4. 

9th [] } I recieved 3 letters. Wrote 4. 

10th [] f * I made A pruchase of salmon & trout rods, reels, lines, hooks, flies And aparatus for 
both salt & fresh water to the Amount of £6.2.4. Elders Stratton and Sheets were present with me 
when I made the purchase. 

I recieved A letter to day from Br Clark informing me that Sister Clark was vary sick with the 
small Pox. Broke out with it from the crown of her head to the sole of the feet. May the Lord help 
her spedily to recover. 

1 1th [] } I recieved 3 letters & wrote 4. 

12th [] I recieved 3 letters & wrote 2. 

13th I have had the company of several of the brethren with me for several days. I took the cars 
with Mrs Woodruff & rode to Manchester. Spent the night at Mr Holebrook. 30 m. 

SPECIAL CONFERENCE 


A special Conference of All the Churches in the british Isles met at the Hall of Science at 10 
oclok on Sunday this 14th day of December there being present President Wilford Woodruff & 
Councillors Hedlock & Ward [ ] High Priest [ ] Seventies [ ] Elders [ ] Priest [ ] 

Teachers [ ] And [ ] Deacons. 

We herd represented 11.072 Members 8 High Priest 392 Elders 590 Priest 311 Teachers and 188 


Page391 





Deacons And 1,573 Baptized during the last 8 months. The Stafordshire Conference is not 
included in the above representation which Numbers [ ] Members 2 High Priest [ ] Elders [ 

] Priest [ ] Teacher [ ] Deacon. 

In the Afternoon Sacrament was Administered After which our expulsion from the United States 
was taken up And many remarks was made upon the subject. 

[ ] 

In the evening the subject of my leaving was taken up. The Conference agreed to donate to assist 
me on the Journey. 

[ ] 

15 Conference met again this morning. The fore part of the day was spent in making such 
Changes in the conferences as the circumstances required. In the Afternoon the Joint Stock 
Company was taken up And much said upon the subject. The evening was ocupied mostly upon 
the emegration. At the close I gave some Council to the Elders, such as to sustain the Presidency, 
the Priesthood & to be governed by it & not by tongues or the visions of some woman, but learn 
the operation of the spirits as there are many gone out into the world. Dont spend the time in 
whiping the sects but Preach the gospel of Jesus Christ. 

161 spent the day with the Saints in Manchester And held A meeting in the evening & bid the 
Saints farewell. A good number of the Saints spoke. We had a good time. I dined with a number 
of the Elders at Br Sheldens & spent the Night at Br John Druces. 6 miles. 

17th I took the parting hand with Elders D Johnes E H Davis H Clark, Sheets Stratton and a 
number of others & took cars returned to Liverpool & spent the night at home. 30 m. 

18 [] f } I recieved 6 [letters] two of which were from America one from Elder Leonard Hardy & 
one from Elder G. A. Smith giving me some good news from America. I wrote A letter to Elder 
Hardy & one to G. A. Smith. I wrote 10 letters in all. Went over the river. Spent An hour at Br 
Enions. Saw our little girl. She was well. 10 m. 

19th [] ^ I recieved 2 letters & wrote 3. My labours are vary great at the present time in setl-ing 
my affairs to get ready to go to Nauvoo. 

20th [] } I recieved 2 letters. Wrote 4. Mrs Woodruff bought A bill of goods today to prepare for 
her journey. I spent the evening at home. I read the 16 No of the VI vol of the Times & Seasons 
Containing the minutes of the first Conference ever held in the Temple of the Lord in the City of 
Joseph. I also read an account in the Liverpool papers of the Commencement of an alliance of all 
protestant Churches against the Roman Catholics. 

22d Sunday I Attended Meeting in the Afternoon communed with the people & addressed them. 
Several spoke. Br & Sister Enion was present with our little girl who has been living with them 


Page392 




for a length of time. After meeting I walked with them to the boat as they had to cross the River 
Mercy to Rock-ferry. I spent the night at home. 6. 

23d [] f I recieved 3 letters. Wrote 2. 1 bought A Bill of Clothing for myself consisting of one 
overcoat, 2 Dress coats 2 silk velvet one satin & one cloth waitcoats All of the first quality of 
cloth. The Bill was £9.15.0. 

24th [] } I recieved 3 letters & wrote 2. 1 spent the day at the office. In the evening I went in 
company with Mrs Woodruff to visit St Johns Market Liverpool one eve. It was quite a splended 
sight. The market was Amply supplyed with the richest Beef and Mutton, pork, veal, And a great 
variety of wild & tame fowls And game, And A great quantity of fruits of almost every county & 
clime. The whole dody of the Market was decorated with a great variety of evergreen. It was so 
crouded with people it was with great difficulty we could get through. We also visited the fish 
And Pedlers Market. We then returned home. 

And At 1 1 oclock at night we attended High Mass in the Catholicks Chapel in Scotland Road 
whare All the ceremonies And perfonnoncis were attended to that are perform by the catholicks 
at high mass on Christmas eve. After there offering incense they presented sumthing to represent 
Jesus in swadling clothes After which the meeting broke up And we returned to our homes at 2 
oclok at night. This was the first time I had ever attended High mass. 12 miles. 

25th CHRISTMAS DAY This is the second Christmas I have spent in England. I took Cab in 
Company with Mrs Woodruff & rode to the Rockferry. Took steemer. Crossed the Mercy. We 
called upon Br & Sister Enion by invitation And partook of A vary rich Christmas dinner. Our 
daughter Susan Cornelia made one of the number As she had been living with them for some 
time past. They have under taken to make a Lady of her And they have done well with her. She is 
two years & 5 months this day & she can read in two or three syllables quite well. We spent quite 
a plesent time with them. 

Br Enion accompanied us across the river And we all attended A tea meeting of the Saints held at 
the Music Hall. There were 3 or 400 sat [at] the tables pertaking of the bounties of the earth. 

After the repast was over tables were Cleared away. Elder Woodruff was chosen Chainnan of the 
meeting. Many speaches was made by Elders Woodruff, Ward, Hedlock & A large Number ol 
other elders & the meeting past off well & interesting. 10 m. 

26 □ 4 1 recieved 3 letters. Wrote 2. 

27th 0 0 Elder Ward Commenced to dray the Portrait of Mrs Woodruff with little Joseph in her 
Arms. I spent the day at the office And Elder Banks came home & spent the night with me. 4. 

28 Sunday In company with Br Banks I attended meeting with the Saints at the Music Hall. I 
preached in the morning. Communed in the afternoon. I also preached in the evening from the 12 
ch of the Hebrews. The discourse was given me of the Lord & I gave it to the People. I spoke in 
great plainness to all. 


Page393 




29th [] } I wrote 3 letters to day & recieved 3 one from President Brigham Young of Nauvoo. 

30th [] } I recieved 4 letters And wrote 6. Mrs Woodruff was quite sick with a desease in England 
called ticdileraux. It causes the most excruciating pain in the face Jaw neck & sholdier. The jaws 
set like the lockjaw. She had a severe night & I was Almost sick myself. Elder Banks spent the 
night with us. It blew a gale this day & night. 3 ships were run down in the channel. 

3 1 D 4 1 fcdcycd 12 letters. Wrote 8. It was A vary busisy day. 


The following is a synopsis of the travels 
and labours of W Woodruff in AD 1845 


Traveld Miles 3,682 

Held Meetings 80 

Attended Conferences 15 

Baptized 2 

Ordained Seventies 3 

Elders 4 

Priests 8 

Teachers 1 

Deacons 2 

Confirmed 4 1 

Blessed Children 23 

Administered to sick persons 90 
Wrote letters 407 

Recieved letters 379 


During AD 1845 I Published 3,000 Copies of the Doctrins and Covenants in Liverpool England 
and secured the copy wright in London it being the first European edition. I Also published 3,000 
copies of the Hymn Book and 20,000 copies of the Proclamation of the Twelve Apostles. I 
visited Liverpool, Manchester Binningham London Glasgow Edinburgh and many other parts of 
England and Scotland. I Collected £317.12.0 or $1,585 for the Temple of the Lord in Nauvoo. 


Page394 




Endnotes 


1 (Popup - Popup) 

This entry, the excerpts from the London Weekly Dispatch, "An Account of A Dream," excerpts 
from the Church of England catechism, "Signs," and "Increase of Crime," are the last entries of 
the third manuscript volume (1840). 

2 (Popup - Popup) 

Asterisks in the "Signs" entry are Woodruffs except in "the * moon" where * represents a black 
sphere. 

3 (Popup - Popup) 

This page is in the hand of L. John Nuttall. 

4 (Popup - Popup) 

Asterisks on this page and on page 84 are Woodruffs 

5 (Popup - Popup) 

7 and 15 May: The asterisks are Woodruffs. The first 15 May entry ends (" went * 2") at the 
bottom of one manuscript page and resumes on the next page. 

6 (Popup - Popup) 

7 and 15 May: The asterisks are Woodruffs. The first 15 May entry ends (" went * 2") at the 
bottom of one manuscript page and resumes on the nextpage. 

7 (Popup - Popup) 

According to text, the "Instructions" and "Testimony of Mother Lucy Smith" were copied into 
Woodruffs journal by John McEwan on 27 August 1844. 

8 (Popup - Popup) 

"The following are the names of the dead ... in AD 1841" is in Woodruffs hand. The Hart 
names, relationships, and dates are in McEwan's hand. 

9 (Popup - Popup) 

4 June: The following appears with an A through it before the second version titled "Blessing": 
"Samuel Graham, In the name of /the Lord/ Jesus Christ and by the authority of the Holy 
Priesthood and the Apostleship resting upon us we lay our hands upon your head /which is 
blossoming for the grave/ & Seal upon your head the blessing of Abram Isaac & Jacob, for thou 
art of the Seed of Abraham of the tribe and linage of Joseph of the blood of Ephraim. 


Page395 




"Thy life hath been preserved on the earth for a special purpose in the mind of God, which 
purpose thee shalt fully understand in the morning of the first resurrection. /We seal thee up unto 
eternal life./ For thou shalt come forth in the morn of the first resurrection & stand in thy lot in 
the linage of thy fathers, /with all thy posterity & kindred that shall receive the gospel./ Thou 
canst say like Simeon of old thou hast seen the seen the salvation of God for thou art made 
partaker of the blessings of the fulness of the gospel & the powers of the priesthood, & we seal 
upon your head evry blessing of the seal of the covenant belonging to the priesthood & kingdom 
of God." 

10 (Popup - Popup) 

26 August: Beginning with "friends under the hands of W. W." the entry is in the hand of John 
McEwan. 

11 (Popup - Popup) 

The blessings given to Phebe and Susan Cornelia Woodruff are in the hand of John McEwan. 


Page396 




Volume 3 

Wilford Woodruff s Journal: 1846-1850 



1833-1898 

Typescript 

Volume 3 

1 January 1846 to 31 December 1850 
Edited by Scott G. Kenney 

Midvale, Utah 


Editorial Apparatus and Symbols 


See Editorial Procedures in Volume I for a more detailed explanation. 


[ ] 

[•••] 

[-] 

[ty/try?] 

[ing] 

[Asterisks are Woodruffs .] 
<Distance> 

/and Joseph/ 

( 

) 


Blank space or original unfinished. 
Illegible letters. 

Illegible words. 

Conjectural reading. 

Words/letters supplied by editor. 
Editorial comment. 

Shorthand text. 

Interlinear or marginal addition. 
Beginning of entry enclosed by borders. 
Ending of entry enclosed by borders. 


Pagel 



(PWW) Brief text enclosed in drawing. 

* Unique or infrequently used drawing. 


Volume 3 Chronology 


l a fSb £/ 

, f •* 

> (12 13> S. ) 

{ ci 30 

X 

\ S jj 

1 

•L & 

, 0 0 


1. iA-c? 

. OO 

,// 


.Mfkw 

t M w 

b 

T D- 1 «• 


1846 


April 13 

Arrived in Nauvoo from England 

April 30 

Private dedication of Nauvoo Temple 

May 22 

Left Nauvoo to join Iowa encampment, eventually settling in Winter Quarters 

July 19 

Mormon Battalion left for Santa Fe 

August 8 

Woodruff family rebaptized 

1847 


January 19 

Extended Woodruff family organized 

April 7 

Pioneer company left Winter Quarters 

July 24 

Pioneer company entered Salt Lake Valley 

August 6 

Rebaptized with members of the Twelve and First Presidency 

August 12 

Great Salt Lake City government organized 

August 26 

Began return to Winter Quarters 

October 3 1 

Arrived in Winter Quarters 

December 5 

First Presidency reorganized with Brigham Young, Heber C. Kimball and 
Willard Richards 


Page2 


1848 


April 19 

Left Winter Quarters for Boston to preside over Eastern States and Canada 

August 12 

Arrived in Boston with family 

1849 


July 

Visited Maritime Provinces of Canada 

1850 


April 9 

Left Boston 

October 14 

Arrived in Salt Lake City 


Wilford Woodruffs Journal for 1846 

* 

January 


JAN 1st 1846 } [] I wrote Elder Samuel Downs A letter And sent him as A New years gift some 
Hair from the Heads of Joseph Smith the Prophet And all the Smith family of Male members 
also Mother Smith And from most all the quorum of the Twelve Also A peace of Joseph Smith 
Handkerchief. I recieved 4 letters & wrote 3. 

2d It is A vary busy day & time getting ready for my departure for America. I recieved 8 letters. 
Wrote 6. 

3d D 4 1 rec i eve d A letter from Nauvoo from W W. Phelps containing A Power of Atturney to 
collect some money for A Brother in Nauvoo from Mr Luton of Liverpool. I called but He was 
not at home. I left Liverpool. Took cars. Rode to Preston. Spent the night with br Wm. Smith. 
Distance 40 miles. 

4th Sunday I preached in the Cock pit to the Saints in the morning Communed with them in the 
afternoon And Preached Again in the evening to A large Congregation from Ezekiel III ch. 15 to 
21 verses And IV ch of Micah. I had an interesting day though I was some unwell. I blessed one 
Child lade hands upon 10 sick. Spent the night with Br Smith. Linished my testimony with the 
town of Preston And it may be the last time that one of the quorum of the Twelve may ever speak 
in the Preston Cock pit. 


Page3 




Jan 5th The Preston Saints made me a present of £5 to Assist me to Calafornia. I bid the Saints 
farewell. Many sent there love to the Twelve & there friends in Nauvoo. I took Cars rode to 
Liverpool called at the office & returned home vary weary but went to packing up our trunks. 
Worked untill we were all tiered out And retired to rest. 40 m. 

6th [] } I got one letter from Elder Jones of wales vary interesting of the progress of the work. I 
wrote 2 letters. 4. 

7th [] } I recieved 2 letters & wrote 3. 

8th [] } I recieved 3 letters & wrote 2. 1 bought A pair of fine gold spectacles containing good 
pebbles for the eyes for W W. Phelps. Paid for the same £1.12. 1 recieved one letter from 
Glasgow containing £20 & £8.17.0 was for the Temple & £1 1.3.0 for myself. 

9th I recieved 4 letters & wrote 3. It was A vary busy Day. 

10th [];}■* I recieved 5 letters & wrote 3. 1 Recieved A Donation to Day from the Manchester 
Conference of £42 forty two sovreigns to assist me And my friends to emegrate. I gave £12 to 
Elder Clark & kept £30 myself. I also recieved £8 from the Birmingham Conference. I made A 
feast in the evening And had for my guest Elders Hedlock, Ward, Clark, Wilson & J. Downes 
And had a good time together. 6 m. 

1 1th Sunday I spent the morning at home with my family. In the Afternoon I communed with the 
Saints And in the evening I deliverd my farewell address. There were many persons out. 4. 

12th This was a vary busy day in making A beginning of preperations for my family to set sail. I 
wrote 6 letters. 

[] } I recieved 10 letters most of which Contained letters to there friends in America. 

13 This was Also A vary busy day. We packed up all our things with Br Clark & took them onto 
a cart & went with them to Waterloo dock to go on board of the Liverpool Capt Devenport but 
they had drawn out from the dock & our goods lay all day on the dock. At night they were taken 
on board. 

14th I spent this day on board of the ship preparing our bedding & baggag for sealing], nailing 
down lashing up &c. 

15th [] } I recieved 6 letters. Wrote 2. 1 recieved one letter from S Brannan New york Also the 
messenger And a times & seasons from Nauvoo. Mrs Woodruff & babe was quite unwell this 
morning. It was Ascertained that the ship would not go out this day. 8. 

{16th January 1846} I went on board the Ship Liverpool with my family & about 40 other Saints. 
Elders Hedlock, Fielding, Mechacie & myself went out with [th]e ship abot 10 miles. We then 
took the parting hand with my family & all the saints & returned in a small boat & left them 


Page4 




floating before a good breeze. I returned to Liverpool & was vary busy the remaind part of the 
day. 20. 

17th I spent the day at the office. 4. 

18th Sunday I called upon Elder Ward in the morning. Found him unwell yet He went with me to 
the office. Elder Hedlock was with us & we took an inventory of all the property in the printing 
department And settled all accounts as far as time would permit. I remained at the office untill 1 1 
oclok at night. 

19th Monday Was A vary busy day in settling my business. I recieved 2 letters. [] } I wrote A 
letter to Henry McEwen in Plainness for not remembering his promise to me of A Debt of £30 
but vary smoothly past it by without either paying the debt or refering to it in his letter to me. 

20th I spent the day at the office And a hard days work it was in trying to settle my accounts & 
wind up my business & be prepared to put of at half past 9 ock. I took steemer to Rock ferry 
cross the Mercy & spent the night with Br Enion And had an interesting time with them. They 
promised to send me A copy of the Portrait of our Daughter Susan Cornelia which A female 
Artist drew having Neither hands nor arms at all. 

21st {Farewell} I took breakfast with Br & Sister Enion. Crossed the river Mercy to our office At 
Stanley buildings Bath st. Liverpool And As this was the last day I was to spend on shore before 
going on board of the ship I was detennined to make A final settlement of my affairs in some 
way An event I have found hard to Accomplish as Elders Hedlock And Ward have had so much 
business of there own they have done but little to assist me in the settehnent of mine And what 
they should have done has been put off untill the last minute which has made it vary hard upon 
me As I have had to pull alone & none to help. Elder Ward esspecially has manifested great 
neglect & indifference in assisting me away. However I have struggled through it by the Help of 
God And also overthrown A plan to partially rob me of what little means I had got. This plan I 
have evry reason to believe was concocked by Mr James the printer And A professed friend 
standing near me in office & interest. But the Lord knoweth the following is a true Account of 
the state of things in which I left the printing department of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter 
Day Saints in Liverpool. 


The following is An account of Books on hand And Dues: 


Books of Mormon 

Books of Doctrins &Covenants 

Hymn Books 


879 at 

4/ 

175 

2259 

3/6 

395.15 

2166 at 

1/6 

62.9 


Total 

733.4 


30 



Due on the proclamation 
Due on the vi vol of the Star 75, 


Page5 




deduct £25 for bad debts 

50 

Total 

£813 

4.0 

Deduct for all liabilities 

238.7.11 



leaving A balance Above all liability 

574.16. 1 




Liabilities As follows: 

for W. Woodruff 2[ 1/2?] Adult passengers on 
the Liverpool to New Orleans £4.5.0 
do 1 passage to New York £4 
do Mr Eatons Bill for Saws & Sundries 

10.10 

4 

8.9.5 

22.19.5 

Loaned of Sundry persons on 


Accounts of Books 

95. 8. 6 

Due Mr James for printing 

45 

Due Mr Fazackerly Binding D & Covenants 

35 

Due Thomas Ward for services 

15 

Due Thomas Wilson" " 

5 

Total for all liabilities against office 

238.7.11 

Reuben Hedlock received for the Temple Beginning Sept 15 1844 ending Aug 28 1845 £217.0.1 

1/2 Also for Book of Mormon belonging to the Temple £28.15.1 1/2. Total £255.15.3. 

Paid on D Jones order &c 

£53.9. 8 

forwarded to Temple Com 

£100 

Total 

£153.9. 8 

Still due the Temple 

£92. 5. 7 

W Woodruff Recieved for the Temple 


commencing Aug 28th 1845 


ending Jan 19th 1846 

£817.12.11 

1/2 


Paid on D Jones order &c 

£40.18. 6 

forwarded to Temple Com 

£268. 1 

W Woodruff pays temple 


committee on his arival 

£8.13.5 1/2 


£317.12.11 

1/2 


R Hedlock Recepts 

245.15. 3 

Page6 




£563. 8. 2 1/2 


Total Recepts for the temple 
in the british Isles 

during one year four months And six days. 

At $485 per pound it would be $2,732.52. 

After regulating these Accounts And writing A peace for the Star As An farewell Address All in 
the midst of A Hurricane of business I bid farewell to Elders Heallock, Ward, Wilson And All 
others concerned And in company with Elder Joseph Albert Stratton I went on board of the 
Packet Ship Ashbur-ton of the Swallowtail line 1,150 tons. Capt Wm. Howland 1st Mate Mr 
Williams 2d Mate Wm. Drummond with 4 cabin passengers 22 second cabin passengers & about 
50 steerage passengers. We had a state room in 2d Cabin at mid ship oposite the main mast. Fare 
£4 pound each All bound for New York. Elder Strat-ton & myself occupied the lower berth in the 
state room & Mr John Hastings Plesant Valley Dutchess Co. N York An Irishman occupied the 
upper birth with A man by the name of Cox. We spent most of the day regulating our baggage 
And getting ready for sea. The ship remained in dock over night & we lay on board. I lay upon a 
straw bed some damp & with the wind from the Hatchess I took quite A cold. Thus ended one of 
my Hurried disagreeable day. 

22d I arose quite 111 & went to Br Halls to get some breakfast. Went to the ship & spent the day 
but not a soul came on board to see us but Br Cowley to do some earands for us. At 4 oclok we 
left the dock And hailed out into the river & cast Anchor & spent the night. 

23d We hoisted Anchor at 8 oclok And A steemer hiched onto us & took us into the Channel 
about 15 miles & left us. We then made sail for our course. The ship was However searched 
before the Steemer left for smuglers when 5 persons were found stowed away in the Hold. They 
were printices had run away from there Masters. They were taken on shore And probably had to 
return to there Masters. We sailed through the day before A light breeze. And while my wife 
Children And other friends are crossing the Atlantic to New Orleans on the ship Liverpool I Am 
now starting to cross the Same sea to New York. May the Lord preserve us all safe to meet again 
is my prayer. 

24th A Dead Calm the fore part of the day. A Head wind in the Afternoon but light breeze. I was 
not sick but quite chilled. We had A rough night. 

25 Sunday We have still & head wind And Are beating in the Channel. Elder Stratton was sick 
last night. I Am sick to day but it works downward. 

26th It is stormy to day, beating against A strong head wind in the Irish Channel. Do not gain any 
ownly hold our own besides in danger of being wreked on Shore. We are all sea sick in our state 
room. 

Mr Hastings is A Gentleman And A peaceable man. Mr Cox his bedfellow was of A different 
Stamp. He left our room & took up his quarters with another man As he found no gamblers or 
blacklegs in our room. We were glad to get rid of him as he was A quarrelson man. 


Page7 




We had A terrible night gale of wind. Run under Almost bare poles. Dangerous business this. I 
pray the Lord to give us a Change of wind soon. 

27th Still head wind. We gain but little. I am still vary sick. It is distresing to be Confined as we 
are beating in a narrow channel dangerous coast head wind. And all sea sick. We spent A gloomy 
night. 

28th An exceding gloomy day. Constant gales & Head winds. We do not gain any. Are still 
beating the Channel opposite the Tuscan light House whare we have been for several days. We 
came near Having A collision last night with another ship the Henry Clay going into Liverpool. 
They ownly seperated as they passed A few feet of each other. Had they struck one or both would 
probably have gone down. We are all seasick pitching And rocking so in the sea. We have no 
Appetite for eating any thing. I never was in more discourageing circumstances at sea in my life. 
Constant head winds dangerous shore rough weather sea sick loss of Appetite long nights And to 
lie abed nearly all day. 

29th Still dead head wind. We are still in sight of the Tuscan light. We have now been 6 days 
beating in this Channel & ownly got 150 miles. Last night was Also a tedious night to us. I trust 
my family & friends are doing better on the Liverpool than we are. I feel vary anxious to get to 
my friends in Con so that we can continue our Journey west. With the labours And cares I have 
resting upon me it is trying to be confined so long in one place doing nothing. The wind changed 
this afternoon so we were enabled to make about 50 miles to day. 

30th The wind is again dead ahead And we have to persue the old Course to beat against gales & 
Stonnes & rough winds. I was quite sick this morning And vomited the first time since I have 
been on board. It is truly A gloomy day. We had a gale at night. It rocked so bad I Could scarcely 
keep in bed. 

3 1st Rough sea & head winds. We are all still sick & no appetite. 

February 

Feb 1st 1846 Sunday I arose quite unwell this morning being rocked so badly through the night. 
We have a calm this morning. This is the 10th day since we left Liverpool And it is supposed we 
are still in the mouth of the British Channel opposite Cape Clear about 300 miles from Liverpool. 
About what we ought to make in 24 hours with a good fair breeze. This is bad beginning. 
Certainly what the end will be time must detennin. I read the latest London times to day but 
found nothing important in them. It is still gloomy times with us. 

2d This is the most Cheering day we have had since we left Liverpool. We are now Clear of the 
Channel and a good breeze from the North west enabled us to run nearly on our course about 8 
not an hour. It blew a gale for a little time last night. I slep well & had some plesant dreams. We 
are getting some better in health & spirits. 


Page8 




3d This is the first day on the voyage we have heard the command to square the yards. Wind is 
now favorable. We run 8 not an hour in the morning. At 12 oclok the wind changed again dead 
ahead. We run the ship on the Southern tack. We again have to contend with a strong head wind. 
We shiped a vary heavy sea And wet many of the passengers And upset the Negros Cook galley. 
There is one sail in sight on our lee bow. Elder Stratten Appetite is some improveing. Mr 
Hastings is still rather feble. A squll struck us at 3 oclok but lasted but a few moments. 

0 At oclok one of the most exciting seens took place that I ever saw at sea. The second Mate 
steped forward to the bow of the ship & ordered one of the hands to do sumthing on the bowsprit. 
He refused upon the principle that it was dangerous & a risk of his life. The Mate said He would 
not ask a man to do a thing that he was not willing to do himself And stept forward to do it while 
at the same moment they shiped A sea which instantly washed him overboard. 

The seas were running high & the ship going 8 not an hour. The cry of second mate overboard 
was instantly rung through the ship. Ropes was flung to him but he cold not get them. The Bouy 
was next flung to him. He swam hard to get to it but He could not get it as the seas were runing 
so high. It floated to the leeward of him. The Capt then gave orders to we[ar?] the ship which 
was done as spedily as possible. Still it took several minutes. The Life boat was let down at the 
same time maned by Harry the Boatswain And four others hands. Notwithstanding the High seas 
they managed the boat well. The Mate continued to swim for 15 or 20 minutes amid the raging 
billows even untill the life boat was within A few rods of him when He instantly sunk to rise no 
more. 

They remained on or near the spot whare he was last seen both with the life boat & Ship for near 
an hour but nothing more was seen of him. The life boat then came along side And it was with 
great difficulty they got on board of the Ship as they came near being swamped several times but 
after evry exhertion being made they were obliged to trim there sails to the wind & continue there 
course & leave there mate in his watery grave speaking loudly that while in life we are in the 
midst of death. The captain & crew seemed much affected by the incident. 

His Name was William Drummond An American, native of Flushing Long Island New York. His 
Parents live near the city of New York. Was A single man. Had been in the East India trade with 
this same Captain William Howland. This was his first trip in the Liverpool trade And was now 
on his return horn. Was A stirring Ambitious young man. Was remarking last night what pleasure 
He would have in taking tea with his Mother on his arival in New York. But his hopes are 
suddenly blasted And A Mother will be disappointed. 

Harry the Boatswain was Appointed to take his place And all is going on as though nothing had 
happened. 

Feb 4th Dark And Rainy. Light Head breeze. At 4 oclok the whole Heavens coverd blacknes. It 
was expected a severe gale was at hand. All sail were spread when the squall struck the ship. All 
sail was then furled as soon as possible the passengers went out to assist but the wind soon 


Page9 




Changed to the North East And the sails were spread before it And we had for once A fair breeze 
but it did not last long but shifted to various points. We did not have so rough a night as was 
expected. 

5th It is two weeks to day since we drew out into the Channel at Liverpool And we are not yet 
1,000 miles on our way. We have A comfortable breeze to day from the N West. We can run our 
course into 2 points to the Southerd. We have A vary plesant Afternoon the most so of any day 
since we left. We are all much better in health And spirits And getting good Appetite. 

There was A fight Among the steerage passengers. One man fell down the Hatch way & broke 
his cholar bone. I spent the day mostly Aranging my Books. 

6th A Steemer hove in sight this morning on her way to Liverpool. Remained in sight about one 
hour. We still have A head wind. I was sea sick at night. We run about 7 nots per hour. We are in 
constant danger of being destroyed by fire through the carlessness of the passengers with there 
pipes And candles about there straw beds & crates of crockery filled with straw. 

7th Saturday I was sea sick this morning And vomited some. We have still head wind And make 
but slow progress which is vary discourageing to us considering our situation As our business 
requires haste but we would console ourselves the best we could. Each one would tell what he 
would do when he got on shore. We first would take a dish of oysters to gether. I would take A 
keg of Oysters & some Clams And A fresh codfish to My father & Mother from New Haven. (I 
must see that I do it.) Each one was to take there friends sumthing so we would occasionally feed 
upon these reflections. 

One man A steerage passenger got several buckets of water flung on to him & the rope's end for 
his filthiness about the floor. The man that broke his Choler bone is getting better. 

8th Sunday I had some plesant dreams last night in visiting my friends. When I awoke the first 
sound I heard was from the steward saying After so long a time the wind has Changed in our 
favor And that we were running on our course 11 1/2 nots an hour before a good fare breeze. This 
was Joyful news to us. It cheered up our spirits As we had been warring Against Head winds ever 
since we had left Liverpool over 17 day during which time we had got ownly about 1,200 miles 
And we have got nearly 3,000 miles yet to go. 

We dressed ourselves & went on deck And it was truly a glorious view. All the sails were well 
filled & we were plunging through the ocean like the horse rushing to battle. The log was flung at 
12 oclok And it was found the ship was running 13 not an hour on our course. As we have had 
bad beginning I hope we may have good ending. A squall struck us at 4 oclok. The Log was 
Llung. All the line run from the reel befor the sand was out. It was supposed to be running 14 not 
an hour which is as fast as the Ship Could Sail. This is the first day we have had A fair wind A 
whole day since we left Liverpool. 

9th We have had an Easterly wind through the night which has Caused the Ship to roll in the 


Page 10 




trough of the sea untill Boxes trunks cans &c were tumbling through the Ship & we Could 
scarcely keep our berths. We are going 10 not an hour this morning on our course. We have made 
400 miles since the wind changed. We are having a rough day in consequence of the rocking of 
the Ship. 

10th A fair wind but light breeze. We run 5 nots. In the evening A Strong breeze fair wind 
smooth Sea. Run 13 nots. We had A good short Cake & Apple Dumplings for dinner. All sail is 
set. I never saw a ship carry so much sail in strong winds And gales as the Ashburton. 

1 1th We have this morning A strong South East wind with fore & main top gallant sails set. We 
run 13 nots an hour on the course. This is truly incourageing And things are turning in our favor. 
They have so much canvass up it tries the whole strength of the ship. Most ships with the same 
wind would be under closs reef top sails. 

I spent the day in writing. A gale struck us at 4 oclok. Though the wind was fare the ship was 
immediately put under closs reef top sail & they let her drive on her course. Some of the time 
strong gusts would strike her And make her tremble. It was the roughest night we have had on 
the voyage but the Byrometer to day speaks of a still greater stonn ahead. Seas are vary high. 

12th Seas High & rough this morning. The wind still continues vary strong from the South East. 
We are still under reef top sails though they make A little sail this morning we all felt some 
unwell. It is supposed we shall reach the Bank of Newfoundland this evening. At 6 ocl[ock] the 
capt had the lead cast for Soundings. We have made 1,000 miles on our Course during the last 4 
days nearly as much as we made the first 17 days. I hope the wind may continue favorable. 

13th The wind changed to the west again during the last night. It is an exceding cold day like the 
bank weather of the coast of North America. We have a light head wind but a vary heavy swell 
As though there had been A Heavy blow or immediately would be And According to the 
Barometer. Yesterday A cold snow storm set in at 10 oclok. The snow and wind continued untill 
4 oclok which coverd the ship with snow sleet & frost. It then increased to a gale And the Air so 
full of snow we could not see scarcely any distance. The whole rigon began to be coverd with ice 
& it was so cold the wheel & watch had to be releaved vary often to keep them from freezing. It 
is a cold North Wester. The gale in the evening arose to A Hurricane And dreadful Cold. I never 
saw so gloomy A time for Sailers. 

All canvass was taken in except one or two small stay sails to steady the ship. They then lit her 
d [...]. I never saw so gloomy a time at sea on board of A ship in the midst of A Hurricane, the 
raging billows pouring out there fury upon us, evry thing stifning up with cold & frost no one 
knowing whats [next?]. The yards would be blown away or a mast go by the board or the ship 
spring a leak or founder & go to the bottom. 

It was Amid these reflections late in the evening that I stood on deck & gazed late in the evening 
upon the wild & dismal appearanc that surrounded me And raisd A secret pray to my Heavenly 
father to protect us. Then with calmness & composure retired to my bunk leaving all in the hands 


Pagel 1 




of God. 


No person can form any idea of the Awfully grandure & dismal appearance of such a seene 
without the sight. It is in the midst of such seenes that I wonder And marvel that men enough can 
be found in the world to carry on the commerce of the Nations of the earth by sea that can be 
hired to follow such a trade pass through such exposures & suffer such privations for the paltry 
sum of $10 or $15 per month. We however through the goodness of God And the strength of a 
s[trong?] oak ship passed through the seene without damage. The wind died away during the 
night & the gale ceased & we were all preserved. 

14th It is exceding cold. We have A fair wind. Run 10 nots an hour. The wind again arose to a 
gale in the night And we had a dredful rough night. We rocked and pitched so bad it made us 
sick. We could not sleep & hardly keep in bed. 

15th Sunday The cold is increasing & getting into our cabins. I have now been with my feet wet 
boots daily soaked with water 23 days without deing near any fire And we are now dailly obliged 
to go to bed to warm our feet. This is the coldest day we have had. We had a still night And we 
got a good nights rest. 

16th The wind has Changed to the South East so we have A fair wind again. We run about 8 nots 
an hour on our course. We are now about 800 miles from New York. It is not quite as cold to day 
as yesterday as we are getting further South. 

Elder J. A. Stratton Rehearsed to us A vary Singular circumstan[ce] that fell under his 
observation which was truly A singular phenonamen. On the 22d day of October 1845 in 0 
company with some friends He went to visit A certain female by the name of Ann Comer 
daughter of James And Susan Comer living at the villiage of Farrington Gumey 12 miles from 
Bath 15 from Bristol Summersetshire England. 

She was A well sprightly child untill her 12th year At which time she was taken with convulsions 
& fits for 5 weeks when her Jaws became locked & eyes closed. She lost the use of her limbs. 
Was ownly able to turn her head And raise her hand a few inches. The last article of food she was 
ever known to eat [was] A small bite of an egg. This was upwards of eight years since during 
which time there has nothing entered her mouth or passed from her. She breaths through her nose 
which seems regular And her puls beats regular but quite feble. She has grown about 2 inches in 
height during this state. She looks vary plesant. Has her A smile upon her countenance. 

It is the opinion of some th[at?] she was not insensible As incredible as this may seem. Elder 
Stratton said He could not find a doubt with any one in the Neighborhood of the correctness of 
this statement. He pressed her hand several times & recieved A light pressure in return. The 
family had tried to keep it from being known abroad as much as possible. Her fingers nails have 
come off 3 times during the eight years but are at the present time are perfect. Many of the first 
Physicians in Bath have visited her. Some have spent three or four days at a time with her. They 
have desired to have her removed to the Hospital but her parents will not Admit of it. 


Page 12 




In the afternoon we had a calm with quite moderate weather untill 6 oclok when A heavy squall 
suddingly struck us with 3 top gallant sails set. Evry exhertion was made by the whole crew to 
get the sail in as spedily as possible. The gale increased for about one hour when it blew a 
Hurrycane but they saved all their sail but one gib which tore to atoms & blew away. It was 
considerd the heaviest wind we have had on the voyage. It immediately raised A high sea & we 
had an exeeding rough night pitching tumbling rolling & Rocking untill I was sore tumbling in 
bed And trying to hold myself in. It turned vary Cold so that A person would be Chilled through 
in a few moments on deck. 

17th The coldest morning we have had on board. Sails & ropes froze stiff And Ice all over the 
Ship. Most of the passengers kept there beds untill late to keep warm. It is vary tedious upon the 
Sailors. Several of them are sick this morning through the exposures of the night. 

There is but one of us in our state room out of bed at a time to watch & take care of things. We 
take turns & go bed to get warm. Any man that would sell a farm & go to sea for a living has A 
different taste from mine. But I cannot write more now for it is so cold & the ship rocks so bad it 
is with difficulty I can make A letter. 

18th Head wind. We are running South. It is not so cold as yesterday yet it is quite 
uncomfortable. We had a rough rocking night. I was quite unwell. 

I have spent most of the last two days in reading the travels of Edward Daniel Clark, L.L.D. 
through Russia Tartary And Turkey which I found to be highly interesting. His Style of writing is 
quite similar to that of Stephen. He draws however A Horrid picture of the whole Russin Nation. 
He speaks of the Cossacks vary highly. He considers the meanest of them superior to the most 
noble of the Russian. No Nation that He visited but what he gave A better character than the 
Russion. 

19th We have still head wind but vary strong. It is much warmer this morning. I was quite unwell 
this morning. The wind increased to A strong gale. At 9 oclok they were oblieged to put the ship 
nearly under bare poles. Left nothing up but closs reef main top sail And one gib. The Sun Shone 
most of the day & it does not look possible for the wind to blow so hard According to the looks 
of the weather but it continued to blow a strong gale through the day. Yet we were in hops the 
wind would lay at sun set. But we were disappointed And the edge of the evening Showed us we 
must be prepared for a most dismal night. The gale was from the North west & Clouds now 
began to rise from that quarter black as ink & rose in the Heavens with Awful majesty And 
terrible fury. The gale immediately increased to a Hurrican which lasted through the night which 
was the longest & most dismal night I ever spent at sea. 

We are truly experiencing A passage of the roughest class. I knew we were in a ship of the 
Strongest Class And my hope is wholly in that God who has Carried me through all dangers thus 
far in life. 


Page 13 




The wind & waves increased & continued to spend there fury upon us amid the darkness of the 
night. We were shiping some heavy seas when about 1 1 oclok A heavy sea rolled over us the 
main body of which buried the aft quarter deck. As it passed Along it stove to peases the 
compass house. Washed it against two men at the wheel. It smashed the wheel that governs the 
helm. Came near washing the men overboard. It dashed the window of the first Cabin & water 
poured into the cabin. Some Hogheads of water run from the captains Cabin into ours. When the 
sea passed over evry timber in the ship trembled like An aspen leaf. 

The mate informed us that the wheel was broken that governed the helm. They had to lash down 
the helm & let her ride untill the wheel could be mended. We got up And Assisted about 
mending the Compass house. 

No one can form an Idea of such seenes surrounded by the raging billows of the deep unless they 
experience them. The Atlantic is the roughest ocean in the world to navigate And we were in the 
worst season of the year. But we spent the remainder of the night without further Accident except 
washing of the door of the cook Galley & washing out a man who had fallen asleep in it but he 
was suddenly aroused from his slumber by taking A ride on A sea several times for & aft across 
the deck. At length day light appeared which we were all glad to see. 

20th The North west gale still continues though not as strong As through the night. They now 
carry closs reef main & fore top sails. I am quite unwell to day having no sleep for two nights in 
consequence of the rough weather & tumbling of the ship. I shall know how to prize the privilege 
of one more setting my feet on land when I can get the chance of enjoying it. 

We made a good dinner of Apple Dumpling to day made By Elder Stratton. The wind died away 
towards evening And they were enabled to carry Sail again but we were running far South of 
New York. 

Feb 21 We had quite A comfortable Still night last night. Wind has changed to the South west 
And we have a smooth sea. We tack ship at 6 oclock this morning on the Northern which enables 
us to run nearly our course for the hard N western gales has blown us South of the gulf stream 
nearly opposite the Bermuda Island. But we are now again running towards N York about 10 not 
an hour. 

My stomach is much out of order. Constant risings of the stomach causes me to spit so much that 
it is vary injurious to my health. 

Wind turned against us again in the afternoon. It again blew a gale in the evening & nearly all sail 
was taken in And we had another rough night. We gain but little if any on our journey. We are 
sumthing as at the beginning tosting about against head winds without making head way. 

22d * Sunday A child about 10 year of Age A Daughter of Mr Brown died on board last night 
And it is expected the corps will be buried in the sea this Afternoon. 


Page 14 




The sea is rough this morning. We have A Northerly wind. We cannot run within several points 
of our Course. 

At half past 1 1 oclok the corps was put in a wooden box similar to A coffin boared with holes to 
fill with water. The coffin had stones in the foot of it to sink it. It was then slid into the sea from 
a board feet foremost at a signal from the Captain but it did not sink but we saw it swiming near 
half a mile from the Ship. The parents of the Child was catholic And there was no service 
performed over it by request of her parents. 

23d We are still strugling against Strong head North west winds And vary squalley. We do not 
make Any head way. It is vary discourageing to us. We are running North And South continually 
but not towards New York. We had a rough night. 

24th We are still beating Against Headwind And most discouraged. We seem about as bad off in 
the ending as we were in the beginning. There is A ship in sight this morning to the windard of us 
the first sail we have seen for about 20 days. We are all feble in health this morning And 
depressed in spirits as we have so much to do And so little time to do it in And still we are not 
Advancing on our Journey. 

25th We have still head wind And gain but vary slowley. We paid 25 cts for beaking a loaf of 
bread so we had warm bread And butter for Breakfast which we realished much. I had A long 
night last night. Lay for hours awake in a long train of meditation. Finally fel asleep & dreamed 
of seeing my wife & children but awoke And it was A dream. 

The first mate Mr Williams took the names residence And ocupation of each person on board. 
There was 76 Steerage passengers 24 Second Cabin And 4 in the 1st Cabin Total 104 Passengers 
1 capt 3 Mates 24 Sailors 3 stewards 3 cooks 3 Transient persons including Jemmy Ducks. Total 
141 souls on board. 2 died on the way. I gave in my name And residence in the United States, 
occupation Fanner. 

26th We have A South west Gale to day with rain yet we Cannot run our course. When we shall 
ever get to New York the Lord knoweth but it is vary discourageing times to us. It is 5 weeks to 
day since we left the docks at Liverpool And we do not seem to be making any head way but 
beating against constant gales & Stonnes. My Prayer is that the Lord will spedily Cut short our 
passage by giving us fair wind. 

A small Brig passed under our bow within a few rods of us of about 200 tons in the fore part of 
the day And another one in the Afternoon. We had A Strong gale through the night And a vary 
rough time. 

27 The Barometer run vary low this morning. All sail was taken in except enough to steady the 
ship. The gale increased to such an extent they had to lay to the Ship & let her ride the best she 
Could. This like the rest is a head gale. The wind blew exceding hard through the day And the 
night was dark terrible dreadful & gloomy. It blew a Hurricane nearly all night head wind. 


Page 15 




Few marriners ever experienced a rougher passage across the Atlantic than we have done thus 
far. Many ships would not have lived through such a constant scene of Gales & Hurricanes for so 
many days as we have had but would have swamped & gone to the bottom. But the Ashburton is 
A Strong New oak ship of the largest class And has thus far out rode all storms & gales well 
which has been a blessing to us. 

Feb 28th 1846 Saturday This is the last day of feb & of winter And here we are riding still upon 
the mountain billows of the great deep. The wind is still dead ahead. The sea is not quite so 
rough this morning & the gale is lade in some degree yet some sudden gusts & squalls are 
striking us. It is quite cold this morning. We are running North. We are now 36 days out from 
Liverpool And no outward prospect of its being better. We do not gain any at all. 

I dreamed last night that there was a great Storm that killed thousands of Birds that were floating 
upon the water. I saw many that were not quite dead. I waided in 2 or three feet of water & 
picked out many of them & put them under a goose that was sitting & they were warmed brought 
to life & run about lively & well. 

It was quite rough through the day. We have lost near 100 miles in two days but the wind 
Changed during the night to the North East which was A fair wind. How long it will hold the 
Lord knoweth. The wind blew so hard before it Changed that it tore there Gib top sail to ribbons 
& carried most of it away. 


March 

March 1st 1846 {39} Sunday This is the commencement of spring in the year AD 1846 And Also 
my birth day. I am thirty Nine years of Age this day And Am Still rolling upon the Atlantic on 
board the Ashburton. 

There is much Joy manifest on board the Ship this morning in consequence of having A fair wind 
the first we have had for many days. I am fearful it will not last long but still I hope it may. The 
Cow had a fall last night is sick And they are about to kill her to day. We are running on our 
Course. 

We have been 37 Days at sea And I expected to have been with my friends before this time. 

When that day will come I know not. The Probability is that the year now lying before me will be 
one of the most important years of my life. Whare the next birth day will find me I know not. 

Will it be in Calafornia with the Saints And will my Parents wife And all my Children be with 
me? Time must determin. 

The old cow was killed at 1 oclok, And such a scene I never before beheld. A large number of the 
steerage Passengers mostly Irish who had not had any thing to eat but oat meal for many days 
they fell upon the carcase of the cow as soon as her skin was off And cut & tore her to peases like 
so many wolves And in a few moments she was carried away by peaces And scarcely any thing 
left of her but her entrails. And the Irish immediately fell to roasting stewing Boiling & eating 


Page 16 




her. The Cow was sick & her carcase vary lean. 

We have been tuning about 8 not an hour through the day & 10 not through the night on our 
course. I had the best nights rest I have had on board the ship. I dreamed of seeing Br Young & 
other friends. We had a warm short cake for supper one third boiled potatoes & two thirds flour 
but it was nice. 

2d Our spirits are better cheered this morning than they possibly could be with new wine. For the 
wind has not ownly continued through the night to blow us on our course 10 not an hour but this 
morning it seems settelled in the North East And we have A beautiful fair gale that fills evry sail 
& wafts us on our Course towards New York 1 1 or 12 not an hour. We are this morning about 
400 [miles] of New York. We have A beautiful smooth sea And the ship leaps through her 
serface like a race horse. If this breeze continues in two days we will be in New York. May the 
Lord Grant it I Pray. 

{ } ^ } I this day wrote three Letters one to John Neff And sent him $ 10 for a Note of hand he 
held against me. This I forwarded by Major Joseph A Stratton. And one to Phebe W Woodruff & 
one to Reuben Hedlock of Liverpool. We continued to have fair stem Breeze or gale. We run 10 
or 1 1 not an hour through the night under closs reef top sails but it was an exeeding rough night. 

3d We have still A fair wind North east gale closs reef top sails run 1 1 not an [hour]. Now about 
200 mile to reach New York. If the wind Continues fair we shall expect to reach soundings to 
night & get a pilot tomorrow morning & reach New York to morrow which may God Grant I 
pray. 

4th } I wrote 3 Letters one to B. Young to D. Webster & W. W. Phelps. We have A smooth sea 
And light breeze through the Day. 

5th We took A Pilot on board at 8 oclok opposite fire Island. We saw land about the same time 
we took the Pilot. We Have Cool Clear weather And light head winds. We broke our Main top 
gallant sail yard. We arived at the Hook & cast Anchor at 6 oclock. 

6th We Hoisted Anchor And A steemer took us in tow Also the Hugemots & brought us into 
New York Dock at 3 colok And I truly felt to thank God for the Privilege of once more walking 
on Terre Fenna & visiting the land that gave me birth. In company with Br Stratton & Mr 
Hastings we went to an eating House & got a Boll of oysters which we relished much after being 
confined to the ship 43 days. 

Notwithstanding our hard Passage when we come to understand how it had been with other Ships 
we were satisfyed with our voyage for we assertained that the Rossius was out 55 days the 
Drollings 50 the Europe 50, some of which were Dismassted & all suffered much. 

We spent the night at Br Beers at 42 Clarkson Street in the Rear And had A good nights Rest. 
Distance from Liverpool to New York 3,800 miles. 


Page 17 




7th } I wrote to M Holmes & L Hardy to Br Neff & Aphek Woodruff. I finished my letters to 
Nauvoo to D. W. W Webster Phelps [D Webster W W Phelps ] & c & forwarded them by Elder 
Stratton. I sent other letters by him. I spent the Day with Br Lawson Emms. 29 Renwick Street. I 
was informed the Twelve had left Nauvoo with many other saints. I Called upon Ilus F Carter 24 
second street out of the Bowery. I found him well. I spent about 2 Hours with him Returned to Br 
Emms & spent the night. Distance 8 miles. 

I got our trunks through the custom House & left them with Br Emms whare I am to leave my 
things on my arival in the city from the east. 

8th } Sunday I Attended Meeting at the American Hall corner of Grand & Broadway. I Preached 
in the morning communed in the Afternoon took Dinner with Br I F. Carter & tea with Br Davis 
142 Spring st. I Preached in the evening. Br & Sister Carter was Present. I saw Mrs Sloan. She 
sends her respets to Phebe. I spent the night with Br Carter. Distance 6 mile. 

9th I had an interview with Br W. H. Miles 149 York Street Brooklin. I made all preperations to 
go to New Haven by the steemer but when I arived at Peck slip I was informed it would not go. I 
called upon Br Wilson the Sail Maker And engaged him to make me A tent 9 By 12 feet. I called 
upon Mr Davis. 

10th } I spent the fore part of the day in the city. In the afternoon I took the Steemer for New 
Haven. We travled about 20 miles an hour & arived in New Haven half past 8 oclock. Distance 
90 miles. 

I spent the night at Br Stones & slep with Br Shirtleff And was truly glad to meet with him. 

1 1th I bought A keg of oysters 1/2 bushels of clams And a fresh codfish to my Father. Took cars. 
Rode to New Britain. Hiered a waggon to go to Farmington. 4 miles. Paid $1.50. 30 miles. 

I arived at My Fathers House at 3 oclok And was truly glad to once more behold the face of My 
Father & Mother which blessing I Highly Prized which was according to my expectations while 
at sea in my suffering condition. 

I sent to the office for a letter from Phebe But did not get any. I was infonned on my arival that 
Aunt Anna Cosset Died on the 25th Jan 1846 After A long sicknes or illness of two years & 4 
months. Her death Broke up the family. Ann expects to go [to] A factory And Cyrus to canton in 
the Blacksmith business. And it leaves Betsey alone so she desires to go to Calafomia with 
Father Wood-ruffs family that she may live with the Saints. 

{ 12th }} I wrote a letter to Phebe And Dwight Webster requesting them not to Purchase waggons 
As I had bought 2 in the east. I requested them to get some oxen [& co?]ws. I also wrote A long 
letter to Azmon And Elizabeth Woodruff. I filled 2 full sheets. 

13th [] I recieved A letter from Elder Little. I visited Aunt Wheeler & her family. I saw Seth, 


Page 18 




Daniel, Luther, And Amos And other friends. Also Bela Kellogg who asked many qurious 
puestions. 10 mils. 

14th I called upon Henry Woodford And Had a few moments of vary plesent conversation with 
him. There was A hard rain through the day & night And A great body of snow is going off & the 
Farmington River is rising so fast that it is with difficulty I can get home As the meadows are all 
coverd with water. 

But I bid Mr Woodford farewell And took the last look of the house Hills dales & Brooks of my 
Nativity whare I was bom & spent the days of my youth. I crossed the river over the Acquiduot 
And wrode home in the midst of A Heavy shower of rain. 10 m. 

15th Sunday } I wrote A letter to Br Bee[r/n?]e of New York Also to Br Dewey of wesffield. I 
spent the day at Fathers Woodruffs. 

16th Monday I left father Woodruff & rode to New Britain Station. Took Cars. Rode to Hartford 
Springfield & Boston. I Called upon Br Brown 6 Plesent street Also upon Br Davis S P. Bames 
No 56 Oxford Place Boston And spent the night. Distance of the day 150 mile. 

I had an interesting time with Elder Little. 

17th I left Boston in rail Cars. Rode to Saco. Fare $2.75. 1 walked one mile & rode 4 mile in John 
Coles [pung?]. Paid 75 cts. He bought Luther Scammons Place. 

I called upon sister Foss found her well in good helth faith And Spirits. I Found Her 
accompanied by Phebe Foss & Phebe A Woodruff who I found to be a large fleshy girl. I soon 
Caught her in my anns & kissed her. I took dinner with Sister Foss & went with her to Father 
Carters in a waggon. We had to go through John Fabyan lot the lane was so drifted with snow. I 
Found Father Carter & Fabyan all well & Rhoda. I think Mary has Failed. She was pleased to see 
me. 

We all spent the night at Father Carters And had a good time. Father bears his age well. He 
informed me that Mother Carters spirit appeared to him almost evry night. A few nights Ago she 
was with him put her Arms around his neck And leaned upon him. Father asked her why she did 
so. She says because I pitty you. 

During the evening I informed Father Carter of Phebes last request that Father would be baptized 
& recieve the Priesthood And my feelings were vary peculier when he informed me that He had 
had a desire at times of Being Baptised by an Elder of the Latter Day Saints And thought if I 
would stay over another day He would be baptized. I immediately consented to do so for I felt 
willing to make any sacrifice in my power to accomplish so desireable an object And be enabled 
to carry such glad tidings to his worthy Daughter Phebe who had made the request at his hands. 

In fact I was so over whelmed with Joy at the thought that my eyes sent forth A fountain of tears 
of Joy And gladness. I spent A vary plesent evening with him. 


Page 19 




I knew it would require much faith And perseverance for him to go foreward in that ordinance in 
his old age in the midst of Cold weather with the ground coverd with snow And the water with 
Ice. I read And Prayed with them And retired to there front Chamber. 

I spent the night alon for the last time in that House probably in this life. I bowed my knees & 
offered up my Prayer to God for Father Carter & all the family esspecially for my Dear Wife And 
Children with whom I had spent many A sweet hour beneath that roof And who are truly worthy. 

0 How I want to see them. My Prayer to God is that they may be preserved from sickness And 
death. 

1 had many peculier meditations upon my bed during the night. I thought of the whole family 
esspecially the sacrifizes that Phebe And myself had made together. I felt more anxious than ever 
that we might spend an eternity together with the posterity which God had given us. But I fell 
asleep And when I awoke the sun was shining in my Room. 

The Morning came And disappointment came with it for I found on enquiry that Father Carter 
had made up his mind not to be Baptized this time. As the other page will show He firmly 
believed in the book of Mormon And in our faith but could not get an evidence that it was his 
duty to be baptized at this time. I laboured hard to take away his objections but his mind was 
made up And I saw it Could not be Changed. 

18th 0 1 Arose. Found the sun shining ples-ant. I went below. Found Father ready for Breakfast. It 
is his birth Day. EZRA CARTER sen is {73} years old this day. He informed me that he had 
meditated much upon the subject of being baptized by me before I left but it was A vary Cold day 
the snow over the ground And water firooze over And he Could not get an evidence that it was his 
duty then And thought it best to omit it. So I thought it best to continue my Journey as I was so 
late in the season. 

Father Carter walked with me to see Mother Carters grave. We walked on top of the snow crust 
but found the grave bare. Father Carter Pointed to the ground beside her grave And said that 
place will soon be my bed. I plucked some Pebbles from Mother Carters grave to take to Phebe. 

I then returned to the house. Bought some calf Skin And Father Carter made Phebe A Present of 
one which I took with me. I took some of Father Carters Hair And the rest of the family except 
Mothers Carters And there was none of hers Saved. I think Mary fails. 

Father & sister Foss then assisted me to Pack up such things of Mothers as was designed for 
Phebe. One of the dresses that Phebe wanted fell to Sister Foss which she sent to Phebe for 
which she wants Phebe to write back for her to have her part of the crockery that is left. 

I slept in there east chamber through the night for the last time I bid farewell to Fayban And 
Rhoda And Mary And the Children Also John Fabyan And Mary And All that family. I then in 
company with Sister Foss rode through the lane blocked up with snow on each side on to her 
house. And Father Carter walked And He got there first. He wanted to stay with me untill I went 


Page20 




so we Packed up all of little Phebes things And Paid her Bill which was as follows: 


65 weeks of Board at 50 cts 

$32.50 

To New Clothing for Journey 

6.50 

to Sewing 

2.50 


$41.50 

Paid at sundry times 

19.36 

Paid Cash to balance March 18th 

22.14 


$41.50 


I then took the parting hand with Phebe And Ira Foss the ownly Children of that family I saw. I 
Also took the last Parting band And bid fare well to our Hon Aged Father Carter who seemed 
much Affected And wept. He sent his best Parental love to Phebe And wished me to say to her 
that He was A full believer in the book of Mormon And faith of the latter Day Saints And as 
soon as he sees his way Clear will endeavor to be baptized. Spoke of Milton Holmes Calling in 
the Spring to baptize him. He was satisfied with our going to Calafornia And with the Course we 
are persuing. And He wished me to say to Luther And Rhoda that if they would go with us He 
would never complain about it but thought it best for them to do so. 

I then took little Phebe who was clothed wann into sister Foss Slay And in company with Sister 
Foss rode to Saco. Bought Phebe A pair of Shoes And as I Had given Br Fabyan A new silk 
Hendkerchief I also gave sister Foss one that I had with me. I was much interest in my visit with 
sister Foss. I found her in good faith And a great desire to gather with us and live with the Saints. 
She Carried me to the depo. We there took the parting hand And little Phebe And myself started 
on the rail road. 

After riding a while Phebe looks around and says whare is my Mother? I asked her which one. 
She said the one that come with you & I told her she had gone back. She said that was to bad to 
leave her alone but she seemed to enjoy the journey well to Boston though she fell asleep And 
had a long nap. 

On the arival of the Cars I called upon Br S.P. Davis No 4 Oxford Place And spent the night. I 
was treated well. I am weary being so drove daily. As I went to lie down Phebe says whare is my 
Mother? I want to lie with her. But we both had a good nights rest. Distance from Saco to Boston 
90 mile. 

19th I arose. Took an early breakfast with Phebe. Engaged a cabman to take me to the station at 7 
oclok but he did not come. I went after another & he agreed to come immediately. I returned And 
found the first Cab man there. Had to pay him and sent him off. The next one Came but not in 
time for me to get the first train so I had to wait at the station from 7 to 10 oclok. We then took 
Cars. Rode to Springfield. 100 miles. Paid $3.15. Took Cars. Rode to Hartford And New Britain. 
35 miles. Paid $1.00. At New Britain I Hiered a Carriage to go 5 miles to Father Woodruff to 
Farmington. Paid $1.25. Other expenses 75 cts. 


Page21 




The road was bad over the Mountain. We went slow. It was night and dark And Chilly. I carried 
Phebe in my armes. I took Cold. I Arived at Father Woodruff about 8 oclok in the evening 
Almost exhausted with hard travelling forced marches &c. Phebe seemed at first much better 
than I did. She was quite sprightly. We all got some supper & I Put Phebe to bed. I found she had 
taken Cold And Complained of being sore. She also cried for her Mother the first time she had 
cried since I started. But she soon fell asleep And I went to bed almost sick. 

I was Called up before day light As Phebe had the diarhea vary bad And some fever And we were 
afraid she would be sick but she arose quite Cheerful in the morning. I lay down again And had a 
sleep. 

Distance from Boston to Farmington 150 mile. Fare & all expenses $7.15. 

20th I arose about sick with my fatigue And Cold. Phebe Appeared well. It was our intention to 
have packed up to day And started on our journey to morrow but we found we Could not 
accomplish it. But I spent the day Packing up. 

2 1st I also spent the day packing up. I was almost sick. Phebe had a poor turn of the nose 
bleading. She often spoke of her Mother. It created a great bustle & confusion about the house 
packing up & many calling to visit. I was about weary at night. Mr Samuel Deming called to see 
me, Also Henry Woodford. 

22d } Sunday I wrote two letters one to Br Little of Peterborough one to Br. Hardy. I had an 
Exeeding busy day in finishing packing up & preparing for our journey. Many visiters came in to 
take the Parting hand with us. After we got packed up we drew down the waggon by hand & 
loaded it up so as to be ready in the morning. We then bid fare well to the House & went to 
Jennett Stedmans & Father, Mother, little Phebe, And myself spent the night. 

23d {Farewell} We arose early in the morning to start on our Journey. Took Breakfast & bid fare 
well to the town of Farmington And all the inhabitants thereoff. We were taken to new Britain in 
A waggon. Our company consisted of Father And Mother Woodruff And Betsey Cossett who 
accompanys them in gathering with the Saints As her Mother is dead, Also little Phebe & myself 
making 4 of us in Number. 

It was A Plesant morning. As we was on the top of the mountain I cast my eyes back upon the 
Town of Farmington And bid it a final & probably last farewell with joy. 

We did not get to the train in season to get on board the Passenger train so we took the Baggage 
train to New Haven. I there found Br Adams from Springfield. He went with me to the United 
States Rifle Factory. I bought 4 Rifles with extra Barrels. Spent the day in New Haven. 

Took steemer at night. Arived in New York in the morning. Distance from Farmington 130 m. 

24th I called upon Br Ames at 29 Renwick street then Returned to the ship. Hired A carriage to 


Page22 




take Father And Mother to Ilus F Carters 24 Second Street to spend there time. I took my 
Baggage to Br Ames. I had an exeeding busy day. I spent the night with Br Ilus Carters. 15 
miles. 

25 I spent the day with Br Appleby. I visited Mr Benson near the Franklin Market who has 
professed to assist us in some affirs in chartering ships &c. It was A rainy day. I wrote } A letter 
to Br Little with Br Appleby. 10 m. 

26th [] * This was An exeeding busy day. I made A purchase of such dry goods & shoes, garden 
seeds &c As was Necessary. I Packed one Parsel of goods in the rifle Box at Br Beers of $25, one 
package of shoes of $21, two tents $18 = $36 one water proof tent floor $9.45. 1 bought one Colts 
revolvers for $10. 1 bought one quarter of A flowering mill $80 = $20. One <-> from Ilus F 
Carter for <[-]> & waggon &c $85. Sundry other goods. I obtained from Ilus the following 
Address: Luther Scammons New Lancaster Allison P.O. I think Monmouth Co. 

Phebe And Mother has spent her whole time with Mrs Carter And Father And myself have spent 
our nights there. Ilus F. Carter has been exeeding kind to me And Father And Mother Woodruff. 
Before I left He made me A present of A splended gold pencil worth from $7 to $10 And Phebe 
A gold pen worth $4. 

27th We had A busy day getting our freight ready to start on our Journey. I had An Interview 
with Elder Ball. I spent the night with I. F Carter. I } wrote A letter to Elder Little. 15. /I left with 
Ilus my likeness which was good in a gold plated locket which He seemed to think much off./ 

28th I took the Parting hand with Hest Ilus F Carter & the family And with Father Mother Phebe 
And 20 or 30 other friends I took steemboat & rail road to Philadelphia. Fare cost me $10.50. We 
took up lodgings at Washington Inn Market Street between 8th & 9th Street opposit Binghams 
Depo & ware House 276 Market street. Distance from New York to Philadelphia 92 miles. 

29th Sunday I preached in the Morning to A large congregation. Communed with the Saints in 
the Afternoon. And Preach[ed] in the evening to A large congregation for the last time Probably 
in Philadelphia. Elders Mellen, Appleby, Hollister And several others were present. I read A 
letter sent to Br [ ] from the Camp who it appears had also turned away. He staited there was A 

Shaking in Nauvoo that Page had gone with Strang that <— > was Cut off &c. I was weary at 
night & took some Cold. 

30th I spent the day in Philadelphia. Paid fare on my Baggage $5.88. Took it with the rest of the 
company to the transportation line Being 1,010 lbs consisting of (I think) 8 bags 1 chest 1 Box oil 
1 Box castings one wheel for which I Paid $16.40. 

3 1st We took Cars. Rode to Baltimore 100 mi. And Stoped for the day And night. I spent the 
afternoon in company with Elder Hollister And My Father Aphek Woodruff in visiting the city of 
Baltimore. 

After Passing through several streets we stoped at A Deguritype office And I had my Fathers 


Page23 




likeness taken Also my own with my Cloak on And Book in my hand. I paid for the two $3. 

We then went to visit Washingtons Monument. We went on to the top of it over 200 feet High 
whare we had A splendid view of the city. This is the first time I ever had my father with me 
while visiting towns, cities & countries away from Home And the first time either of us had 
visited Baltimore. 

After going through the town we took tea with Br Hollister. We then returned to the tavern whare 
we spent the night. I called upon one Brother And his family the ownly Saints residing in the city. 
They were baptized by Elder O. Pratt in Washington! The whole distance of the day 110 miles. 

April 

April 1st Wednesday We took cars And rode to Cumberland. 150 miles. Then took stage & rode 
to Brownsville. 75 miles. Rode through the night. 

2d We all had A tedious nights ride. About one dozen Coaches was loaded down with Passengers 
from Cumberland to Brownsville. Mother, Betsey, And little Phebe were all quite weary with 
there nights ride. Father And myself stood it quite well. Phebe would often speak of her Mother 
And wanted to go home. She did not like to ride in the stage. 

In passing A river Phebe Asked me who Put the water there. I told Her God. She Asked me who 
helped him & how he got it there And several such curious questions. Many persons seemed 
quite interested on the journey in Phebe's conversation. 

We arived At Brownsville at sundown & took steemer for Pittsburgh. Nearly all the berths were 
taken up. We got berths for Mother Cousin Betsey And little Phebe. Father And myself lay 
together on the bare floor. Phebe had been with me nights since I left Saco As she was some 
unwell at times And I wished to take care of her myself. But to night as I was lying on the floor I 
gave her in charge of her Grand mother Woodruff but she seemed weary & restless. 

3d We arived in Pittsburgh at 1 oclok this morning. At daylight I went And engaged our fare to 
Cincinnati on board the Clipper. Fare $5 each. Paid $20. Distance from Baltimore to Pittsburgh 
325 mile. 

I walked through the Burnt district of Pittsburgh. It looked dismal. Father went with me. We left 
Pittsburgh at 10 oclok on the Clipper & rode through the day & night. Father lost both our 
umbrellas & A silk Handkerchief out of the stage & to day He lost his best Hat over board & 
another Hand kerchief in it. 

4th We had A vary plesant day And A view of the villages & towns as we passed by. 

I perused with much interest the letters to Phebe from her friends Sarah B Foss Ilus &c. I feel 
vary anxious to see my wife And Children once more. I hope And trust they are still preserved. I 
have herd nothing from them since I parted with them At Liverpool but A few days will soon 


Page24 




bring me tidings of some kind from them. My Prayer to God is that it may be favorable. Distance 
from Pittsburgh to Cincinnati 600 miles. 

5th Sunday We arived in Cincinnati at 9 oclok. I went And engaged my Passage to St Louis on 
board of the Lady Madison for $6 each. We went on board of her & moved our baggage &c on 
her. 

I spent the day in writing my Journal And I commenced A letter to Sister Sarah B. Foss. Father 
was quite unwell through the night. Was fearful He was going to have A fever. Little Phebe lay 
in the berth with me. She was quite restless part of the night. 

6th Monday I went into the town & Bought me A Spanish Saddle, Bridle, Martingiles &c. Paid 
$24.75. And A log chain 2 draft chains & pair trace chains & two garden rakes. I paid $7.54. One 
side sole leather 20 lb 18 cts $3.50. Also 3 Reams of Paper $7.25. It was quite A Busy day with 
me in the city getting such Articles As I headed. I also bought An umbrella. Paid $2. for it. 

Father was quite unwell through the day with lameness in his hip. We started for St Louis at 6 
oclok. 

7th We Arived at Louisville And spent several hours. We then passed over the falls & continued 
our journey. It rained most of the day. I wrote } A long letter to sister Shuah. 

8th It is A vary plesant day. We glide finely over the bold Ohio. The fields are green & peach 
trees in bloom on its banks. Father, Mother, Cousin & Daughter all seem to be well And 
cheerful. 

9th A warm plesant spring day. We left the Ohio and entered the Missippi River early this 
morning. While Mother And Betsey was writing letters home to Connecticut Father Woodruff 
And myself diverted ourselves by looking at objects through my spy glass as we passed along. 
Little Phebe eat so many nuts canday &c that she was quite restless through the night And [had] 
some Bowel complaint but she seems Cheerful to day. While assending the Missisippi one more 
towards Nauvoo I rejoiced at the thought that A few more days would give me the privilege of 
again embracing my wife And Children. 

{10th ;}■} I wrote A letter to Azmon Woodruff giving him An account of all our Journey up to this 
date. We are still Assending the Misissippi towards St Louis. I paid my fare to St Louis from 
Cincinnati $6. $24. 

1 1th Arived in St Louis at 10 oclok. Took passage for Nauvoo on the Red wing at $4 each. 
Ibought A Bill of Farming utensial Plough log ChainsAxes shovels, Hoes, spades, sythes sickels, 
forks, steel Iron combs Cards grindstone breast & traceChains Codfish cheese &c &c. The whole 
Bill $67.Also A Hat for Father $2.75 1 Bolt cotton $3.25other Sundrys $3.40. 1 spent the day in 
the city ofSt Louis. The boat started at 7 oclok.Little Phebe had slept with me at all timesduring 
the whole Journey And when we come to go tobed on this boat I found the birth so narrow we 
wereuncomfortable And we had both taken Cold last night 


Page25 




And did not sleep well to night. Distance fromCincinna[ti] to St Louis 700 miles. 

12th Sunday The weather has changed vary cold. Some snow on the ground. Phebe And myself 
have colds. She continually talks about going home And her Mother. 

13th We Passed quincy at 6 oclok. A cold but plesant day. We stoped at warsaw. I gazed upon 
the place for a time And thought of there wickedness oppression & cruelty towards the Saints. 

We also stoped At Keokuk for an hour. 

At about 2 oclock we started to ascend the rapids. In about 2 Hours we came in sight of the 
Splendid Temple built by the Latter Day Saints And also the city of Nauvoo. I immediately got 
my spy glass And examined the city. The Temple truly looked splendid. We stoped at Montrose 
And then crossed to Nauvoo at the upper landing. 

I soon got a waggon & took my friends to My house whare I had the Happy Privilege of meeting 
with my Dear wife & children. I found them all well as could be expected. They like myself had 
a hard voyage across the ocean. They were 9 weeks & 4 days on the Passage and ownly got 
Home a few days before me. We were all Happy to meet. Here I met my wife And all my 
children for over one year. Here Parents & Children also meet. I spent the night once more with 
my family. Distance from St Louis 200. 

14th I had an interview with Br Hyde And many Saints in Nauvoo. I found all the Saints 
Strugling for life as it were to gather with the Saints in the wilderness. I found that Br Dwight 
Webster And Sister Eunice felt to turn from the Church & walk no more with us but felt to 
follow Mr J J Strang & his Party. This I felt sorry for they having traveld so far. 

15th * In company with Father and Mother Woodruff And Phebe cousin Betsey Cossett Sister 
Smoot & others we visited the Temple. We all went through each appartment of it from the font 
in the basement to the hall of the tower And had a view of all Nauvoo & the surrounding country. 
And after taking a view of each Appartment of the Temple we again desended to the ground. 

I rode out on the prairie & sold mr William Allen my lot of land of 12 Acres & 20 of Br 
Pulsi-phers. I also sold my House And lot in which I am now living in for $675. 1 had a vary busy 
day. 

16th } } I wrote A letter to R. Hedlock & one to Luther Scammans. I drew the deeds of the Land I 
sold yesterday. I bought two waggons one of the Temple committee for $70 one of J. Townsend 
for $60. 

We got word to day that the Govornor was expecting to withdraw the troops on the 1st day of 
May And the spirit of mobocracy was expected to break out at that time. There was some troops 
came in to town [at]tac[h/k?]ed Property And manifested a spirit of Hostility. 

17th I spent the day in making some prepera-tion to get away. I had an interview with many 


Page26 




friends Among whome was Br Levi Richards. I tried to buy a stove of him for the journey. In the 
evening I commenced packing up my tru nk s one more for A long Journey. 

1 8th I 1 1 have been much grieved in spirit for several days in consequence of the spirit made 
manifest in the House. Br & Sister Webster have had there minds filled with the spirit of 
opposition to us & taken up with Mr Strang & trying to Prejudice the minds of Father And 
Mother. I called the family together & freed my mind upon the subject. I had a vary busy day in 
packing up my things. 

19th Sunday I met A congregation of the Saints in the grove by the Temple of some 
Thousand[s?] And I had the Satisfaction of Having in Company with me My Father And wife 
and Children Cousin Betsey Cossett &c. I spoke to the People And expressed my feelings in 
plainness upon some subjects. I felt thankful for the privilege of speaking to the Saints in Nauvoo 
in view of the Temple. I was followed by Elder Hyde And Babbit And Hiram Clark. 

20th It was A busy day. I am now preparing to get ready to start on the western Journey. I have 
much to do And little time to do it in. 

2 1st Spent the day in runing about to get my things ready. [] I recieved a Letter from Azmon 
Woodruff. 

22 There is considerable excitement concerning the mob making threats of coming upon Nauvoo 
to try to destroy the remainder of the Saints. 

23 I bought A Pair of Mules. Paid $65 for one And $50 for the other. 

23rd I waighed up my baggage And Provision. My baggage weighed 2,400 And Provision 1,600. 
24th Saturday was also a busy day. 

25th Mrs Woodruff & two children was quite sick which detained me from going to Meeting on 
Sunday. I spent the day at home. 

26 'T Sunday I rode several hours to buy some ox yoke. I bought three. It was A busy day with me. 

In the evening I met in Council with Br Hyde trustees &c And Herd a letter red from Govornor 
Ford which shows the blackness of his heart & the spirit of mobocracy. He will no more attempt 
to protect us but will let the mob loose upon the remainder of the Saints. I have to keep guard at 
home nights. 

27th A Hard rainy day. I spent the day at home. 

28th I Am still vary busy in trying to prepare to leave. 

29th I spent the day Preparing my waggons to cross the river. 

30th * I finished loading my waggons And took them over the river to Ioway. I took over two 


Page27 




waggons two yoke of oxen & two cows And sent Br Fergeson to take care of the Same. 

At the edge of the evening I repaired to the Temple And dressed in our Priestly robes in company 
with Elder Orson Hyde And about 20 others of the Nobility Elders of Israel. We dedicated the 
Temple of the Lord built by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, unto His Most Holy 
name. We had An interesting time. Notwithstanding the many fals Prophesies of Sidney Rigdon 
And others that the roof should not go on nor the House be finished And the threats of the mob 
that we should not dedicate it yet we have done both and we had An interesting time. 

At the Close of the dedication we raised our voices in the united Shout of Hosanna to God And 
the Lamb which entered the Heavens to the joy And consolation of our hearts. We prayed for the 
Camp of Israel, for good weather, that we might not be disturbed by any mob untill the 
dedication was over. I returned home thankful for the privilege of Assisting in the dedication of 
the Temple of the Lord. 


May 

May 1st 1846 We met for A public dedication of the Temple this Morning. Enterance was $1 
each to pay the Hands that had worked on the Temple. I Paid $7 for 7 tickets. My company 
consisted this morning of myself, wife, Father, Mother, one Cousin And Mary Jackson. At the 
hour Apointed I opened the Meeting by Prayer. Was followed in remarks by Br Hyde who also 
offered up the dedication Prayer After which Elder Alrnon Babit was called upon to Address the 
meeting which He did do to the edefycation of the Saints. 

[ ] 

2d I spent the day in doing business in the city. 

3d May * Sunday The Saints began to gather at the Temple at an early hour And by ten oclock 
the House was filled to a great extent. My wife, Father, Mother, Cousin & others took A seat in 
front of the Melchezidec Priesthood. I occupied the uper stand in company with Br Hyde & 
Stratton. After singing Elder J A. Stratton opened the meeting by Prayer After which Elder Orson 
Hyde Arose And Addressed the Assembly from the following words: 

"What is man that thou art mindful of him or the sun of man that thou visits him." My object says 
the speaker is to inquire what kind of A being man is. Man is As Eternal as God himself And is 
Just As much in Eternity now as he ever will be after Death. The period called time is ownly one 
portion of Eternity the same as the outer wall of A building incloses many rooms within or As 
the months Days, Hours minutes or seconds in a year. While in any portion of them we are in the 
year still. While we exhist before the world was, or in the flesh or after Death, it is all in eternity. 

The world opposes the principle of Revelation and does not wish man to obtain knowledge in 
that way. But what Earthly Father that feels interested in the welfare of his Children but what 
desires to teach his Children & reveal to them the knowledge He possesses And would feel 
interested in there Advancement? So with the Lord. He gives gifts & knowledge to his Children 


Page28 




and the more intelligence men get the more refined are there feelings. The knowledge [of God] is 
great & so was his sympathy in giving his Son Jesus Christ to save man The world may oppose 
Revelation but God does not. We have recieved Revelation & visions & God hath shown us 
many things. 

It is true these blessings have cost us great sacrafizes. We have been oppressed all the day long 
And at last are now driven to the wilderness. But we will go & not stay with the world. And 
when we go we remove the candle light from there midst And take it to the sons of Nature who 
have not shed the blood of Prophets. I will leave my testimony with you though it should be like 
A Harpoon. 

As respects the finishing of this House I will ask why have we laboured to Complete it when we 
were not expecting to stay. There is two sides to every thing but Monnonism. As to that there is 
but one side on earth. The other is in Heaven. If we moved forward & finished this House we 
should be recieved & accepted as A Church with our dead but if not we should be rejected with 
our dead. These things have inspired And stimulated us to Action in the finishing of it which 
through the blessing of God we have been enabled to accomplish And prepared it for dedication. 
In doing this we have ownly been saved as it were by the skin of our teeth. The enemy 
Prophe-syed we should not get the roof on but we have finished it And on Thursday night we met 
in this temple prayed in our white robes & dedicated it unto God And truly An interesting season 
we enjoyed. I am willing to live And Die for the Cause. 

You may wish to know what we have been doing in this house. I will tell you. We have been 
anointing And ordaining Kings And Priest unto God. I have been Anointed A king & Priest unto 
God. If any one wishes to kill me for it let them do it. 

We have laboured hard to ordain kings & Priest unto God to reign here on the earth but not now, 
but I will tell you when it will be. When the LORD JESUS CHRIST comes to reign and recieve 
his Crown And sit upon his Throne. The Twelve Apostles will sit upon there Thrones & Judge 
the Twelve tribes of Israel. Then is the time we expect to recieve our crown And inherit this 
earth. We look forward for A new Heaven & earth but it will be the old Concern made gloriously 
and renewed. Those who have been ordained unto this office will be born at the resurrection in 
the royal linage. 

If this religion Gospel & Priesthood has not power to bind on earth and in heaven, it is good for 
nothing. When A man has recieved this gospel Anointing And endowments let him go to the dust 
but He will arise And take his place on his throne. Then will the Nations serve And obey us. 

They are now Persecuting us And there Persecutions Are bringing gray hairs upon the Saints but 
the Heads of the persecutors will be coverd with blackness. 

Men may have been ordained from before the foundation of the world to have perfonned certain 
works. 

There are different stations in the next world And men will be delt with here according to the 


Page29 




deeds done in the body. A man ought to be good Here as he grows older. A man that does his 
duty And obtaines the Priesthood and honors it will have his reward His exhaltation thrones & 
dominions according to his faithfulness. We like our Master have desended below all things. So 
shall we arise above all things. I have seen this by vision. We shall be connected with the 
kingdom of Jesus Christ to the vary place And station will A man arise in the resurrection to 
which He Has been sealed & anointed on earth. 

It is Said that God will judge the world. So will the Saints. On earth Presidents & Govornors do 
not Judge but Judges Apointed for the purpose. So in Heaven we shall judge the world Holding 
the keys of the kingdom And will rise in judgment against our enemies who are heaping there 
persecutions upon our heads. So with the Ancient Twelve. They will judge Israel for they brought 
evil upon them. 

I see the thousands of poor Saints going out to the wilderness in there oppressions drove out by 
wicked men. Such men I will not bless but testily against them. They may kill me but I will speak 
my mind. That man that has the Priesthood and honors it, is God Himself as much as Moses was 
to the People. We are sons of God And Saviors on Mt Zion. If ye are the sons of God ye shall 
have all things. He that over cometh shall inherit all things, sit down upon my throne &c. The 
Lord owns all the Thrones & will give us some. 

A man in the Priesthood has persons sealed to him in his kingdom And is subject to him in the 
dominions of God. Worlds and dominions are continually being fonned which adds to the glory 
of God. Blessed is he who escapes the second death. 

Evry Saint has A guardian Angel with him so death cannot kill him. The Angels accompanied the 
Ancients. So they do us. The Angels of the waters & there was 4 on the cornors of the earth. 
When the guardian Angel is called away we are left to grapple with death. So with Jesus. He said 
my God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me? In three days the Angel returned rolled back the 
stone And raised the Lord. The Angels will [not] stay away forever but will all come with Jesus 
Christ to raise all the bodies every man in his own order. 

This is the way the resurrection is brought about. Jesus Christ was slain And buried yet Arose, 
assended on high And was crowned Lord of all. So with the Prophets martered in Carthage Jail. 
They must come forth And be Crowned And sit upon there thrones And Judge there persecutors. 
If ye were of the world the world would love its own but because I have chosen you out of the 
world therefore they hate you but they must be judged of you at last. 

Man is destined to occupy A great place toincrease in dominion And Power And this is thesecret 
spring of our Action.I have A word of Caution to all. For one I feel to resign my citizenship 
because I Cannot enjoy it. I would Advise all the Saints that they Cast not another vote in this 
state but resign alloffices that they hold And all our friends to do thesame. I do not say they shall 
do it but advise them to. There is a foundation in this that may serve usin days to come. As our 
father And Mother or the Nation that has bourn us has rejected us And driven us out there is A 
Nation of Calamity At the door. All things are not known at once. This Temple was built for A 


Page30 




certain purpose. That is gained. Will we now sell? A vote was taken last fall not to sell it, but A 
key that will not open a door And shut it again is not A good one. So if we have to sell the 
Temple to remove the Poor the People that make us do it must pay the bill & meet the 
consequences. All who are in favor of selling this House if it meets with the Council of the 
Twelve manifest it by raising the right hand. It was A unanimous vote save one. Elder Hyde 
Closed his remarks And was follow by Elder W. Woodruff [ ] who backed up the 

testimony of Elder Hyde. And in speaking of the martydom of the Smiths Said they would rise in 
Judgment against this Nation, the State of Illinois Hancock Co And esspecially Carthage And the 
murderers it contains. They are the most Suitable persons to rise in judgment against them, for 
they were martered by them. Yes the mob of Hancock Co had not yet got through with Joseph 
Smith for He was in the Presence of God and the Lamb in Company with Abram Isaac & Jacob 
And was our senator in the Court of Heaven And would plead our Cause And his own And 
knowing the Cause to be a just [one] will do sum-thing that will have effect. 

The Saints had laboured faithfully & finished the Temple & were now recieved as A Church with 
our dead. This is glory enough for building the Temple And thousands of the Saints have 
recieved there endowment in it. And the light will not go out. Many other remarks were made by 
Elder Woodruff when the meeting & dedication of the Temple Closed. 

4th I spent the day morning in the City vary busy getting ready to go about 30 miles into the 
Country to visit Br & Sister Scammans. I started with my mules & carriage & got 4 miles out of 
the city & got stalled in a mud hole & had to get oxen to draw us out. I then returned home 
coverd with mud & gave it up for a bad Job. Spent the remainder of the day Cleaning the Mules 
& Harness &c. 

5th & 6 I spent making preperations for the Journey. 

7th I had an interview with Elder Taylor who returned to the city to settle his private business. 

8th I went over the river to the camp. 

9th Our company from the east arived At night with our bagage. 

10th Sunday f f [] I wrote A letter to Mr Roe at Farmington. I recieved 3 letters one from Br E. H. 
Davis London one from B Young Camp of Israel And one from Mr Rowe. I went to the Temple 
at an early hour. Found the House filled. Elder Phelps opened by Prayer. I Addressed the Saints 
from the words of Solomon "There is a time to all things And for evry purpose under heavens 
there is a season." 

I was followed by A. Fielding B. Clapp And others. I had a good day. Perhaps the last time I shall 
preach in that House. 

1 1th I again crossed the river to montrose & bought 2 yoke of fat oxen. Paid $50 each yoke. Total 
$ 100. 1 drove them up to the Camp whare my waggons were And returned Home. I saw Br Hyde. 
15 m. 


Page3 1 




12 I spent the day at home preparing my waggons. 

13th It was A rainy day. 

14th It rained in the morning. I bought A Stove for the journey & two barrels of provisions of 
[Lyors?]. Some of my friends at times are tryed with the Celestial Law. Have fears of suffering 
on the journey &c. 

151 had A busy day in preparing to leave Nauvoo. 

16th I crossed the Missisippi with my waggon And family to start on my Journey to Calafomia. 
We camped about one mile from Montrose. I was vary weary at night. Elder O. Hyde camped 
upon the same ground. 

17th Sunday * This was one of the worst days of my life or most perplexing. I had on the ground 
three baggage waggons one family carriage 6 yoke of oxen 6 cows 4 calves one yearling & one 
pair of mules making 25 Head in all. I started to go to the Blackjack grove to camp but the whole 
care was upon myself. As soon as we started the Calves and Cows all run various ways And 
while I was trying to get them together the oxen broke the tong out of my carriage. After that was 
mended by leaving part of our stock we got Started. We had not got far untill Father drove into A 
mud Hole & the oxen mired down. We put on 8 yoke of oxen to draw the waggon out & we 
broke 4 chaines And had to dig the waggon out. At last We finally got camped at blackjack 
grove And I was vary weary at night. 4 miles. 

18th Mrs Woodruff started to day the second time to go to see Br & Sister Scammans And the 
same as the first time got mired down & had to return. Br Fowler came over to Ioway whare we 
were And I immediately returned to Nauvoo. Saw Mrs Woodruff And sold our prairie land for 
goods. We made out the deeds. I spent the night with Mrs Woodruff At Mr Claytons. 10 miles. 

19th I crossed the river to Montrose And Had An interview with A company of Saints from 
Pennsylvania among whom was Br Lu[ts?] Joseph Sidwell Brother Malin & others. Br Sidwell 
let Br Hyde have $700 dollars for the camp $100 for Himself & $100 for me. 

I again returned to Nauvoo aranged some business saw Mother Woodruff Dwight & Eunice 
Mother Smith & others together. They were some of them Advocating the cause of Strang. Some 
unplesant feelings were manifest upon the subject. I parted with Dwight & Eunice perhaps for the 
last time & again crossed the river And rode to the camp. Distance 20 rail. 

20 I rode to Montrose to get my goods. I had to pay $60 on the flouting patent mill & $ 10 
freightage. Total $70. 1 returned to the camp & spent the night. 10 m. 

{2 1 } I spent the day in camp. We had a rainy night & many things wet. 

{22d} We spent the day in going to Montrose And Nauvoo. I spent several hours in Nauvoo. Had 
An interview with Mrs Woodruff & other friends. 


Page32 




I Left Nauvoo for the last time perhaps in this life. I looked upon the Temple & City of Nauvoo 
as I retired from it & felt to ask the Lord to preserve it As A monument of the sacrifice of his 
Saints. I returned to the camp & spent the night. 10 mi. 

23d I spent the day in Painting my waggon covers & preparing for my Journey. 

24th Sunday I spent the day in Camp, f f f I wrote 6 Letters one to Azmon Woodruff one to I F 
Carters, to Sarah B. Foss to J. B. Appleby to E H Davis of London And Luther & Rhoda 
Scammans. 

25 □ I recieved one letter from Br R. Hed-lock. We struck our tents & rode to Charlestown & 
Camped for the night. 6 m. 

I had sprained my sholdier & thumb A few days since among some Cattle. I took Cold in it to 
day & fell quite lame at night. 

26th I remained in camp through the day. Br H. Clark J Townsend & many others passed us to 
day. Br Smoot came up & camped with us for the night. 

27th T We Journied through the day And Just before we stoped A serious Accident Happened to 
Father Woodruff. He went to get into the waggon while the oxen were travelling. The foreboard 
gave way that He took hold of & He instantly fell upon His back & both wheels of the waggon 
loaded with 25 cwt passed over his legs And arms And came near passing over his head. I 
expected it had killed him but we soon found it had not broaken any bones but Had brused his 
flesh badley. 

28th We rode to Farmington. The whole company bought there flour at Farmington. I bought 
flour 4 barrels. We crossed the Desmoin River at the Fannington ferry went out 4 mile & 
camped. Got [sot dulg?] our waggon out. 25 miles from Nauvoo. 25 mile. 

29th We lay still through the day with our teems. I reloaded my waggons And sent back to 
Farmington And got rods for my waggon & sundry articles. Father Woodruff was quite lame but 
doing well Considering how bad He was injured. 

30th We travled through the day. 

3 1 Sunday We travled through the day And at night camp on a branch of fox river. We had a 
rainy night. Susan Cornelia is vary low with the bowel complaint. Is dangerously sick. I lade 
hands upon her with Elders Sanders & Billings. 15 miles. 

June 

June 1st Monday We lay still done washing &c. I shot a duck to make some broath for Susan. 

2d We travelled. We overtook the Ramus company of about 25 waggons. 


Page33 




3d We did not journey but I went to Bloomfield. Bought 2 yoke of cattle. Paid $20 for one & $30 
for the other. 

4 We moved 2 miles & camped. 

5th We travled about 8 miles. Broke A tong out of one of my waggons. I stoped And put in an 
other. 

6th Br Sanders broke An Axeltree And the droveiers left one of my Calves. We had an exeeding 
bad road some part of it the worst of any we had had. We camped on the first prairie after 
crossing the first creek. 

7th * Sunday We killed A Calf this morning the last one we had. We waited this morning for Br 
Sanders to come up. He came about 10 oclok. At 10 oclock we continued our journey And about 
Sun down we came to the long swail. One mile & a half across it. The worst peace of road on the 
whole journey. My Carriage & family went through it. I got my waggons half through by dark. 

I attempted to go through & the wheels of my waggon cut to the hub in turf & mud & with 8 
yoke of cattle I could not get through. Two of my waggons remained fast in the swamp all night. 
Cousin Betsey was in one waggon & remained all night. I was in the mud & water to my knees 
till 2 oclok at night. I was among the cattle near all night. At day light I rolled up in a buffaloo 
robe & got some sleep. 

8th We lay still to rest man & beast. 

9th We travled about 20 miles & Camped near the Macedonia Company of 3 1 waggons on a 
Creek. 

9th We travled through the day. I called the Camp together & addressd them. 

101 started the Company this morning according to our organization. We went through A bad 
swail. My men broke another tong out of one of my waggons. We went to timber cut a stick & 
put in A New one & spent the day. Lucian Woodworth camped near me. He came & Conversed 
with me some hours in the evening. 

1 1th A fine morning. We travled through the day. 

12th We travled till 12. Our cows run away. Detained us 3 Hours. We camped at sun down. 

13th It was an exeeding warm day. We past by the first camp within 6 miles of it. Br Shirtliff 
And his company went to the first Camp. We continued on for the Second Camp. We camped for 
the night in a grove. We have had nearly all prairie through the Journey. 

14th Sunday We travled untill 12 & camped. Elder Hiram Clark came up with us. We camped at 
night on a prairie without timber. 


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June Monday 15th We started early. Overtook Br Smoot at 1 1 oclock. We had sumthing of A 
rough road & Bridges to cross over through the day. We arived at the camp of Israel called 
Mount Pisga. I had an interview with Br C. C. Rich & Huntington the President & Council at 
Mount Pisgah And many other friends. I encamped on the east side of the creek & camp of Israel. 

I ascertained that Br Noah Rogers who had Just returned from A mission to the South Sea Islands 
was dead And the first person what was buried in the burying ground at Mount Pisgah. Br 
Turnbow one of our company Also lost a Child to day. The whole distance from Nauvoo to 
Mount Pisgah is [ ] Miles. 

16th We Attended to the burial of the Child of Br Turnbows And I visited the encampment. 

17th I rode through the day through the encampment to buy A ton of flour to fit my company out. 

I was sick at night. 30 miles. 

18th I was quite unwell but still rode a good part of the day. We have a good deal of trouble with 
our cattle to keep them. I went to see Lorenzo Snow. He had been quite sick & is still. I 
Administered to him And He seemed better. 

19th I got Home my flour to day. I bought for myself 


1,680 lbs. at 3 cts $50.40 

for Br Blanchard 416 lbs 3 $12.48 

one cow for Br Blanchard $ 1 0 

for Br Sanders 546 16.59 

89.27 


20th I had a regular over Hailing of my loads And repacking. I left A number of Chests And 
trunks barrels &c. 

Mother Woodruff Handed me A regular lengthy epistle of complaint written in a book of 30 
pages against several persons there treatment to her &c And come to examin it it was like A 
tempest in a tea pot or a bubble not worthy of notice. The more I have provided for Her of late 
the more she has Complained. She has manifested much of a spirit of fault finding & watching 
for iniquity since she came to Nauvoo & has Been with Dwight & Eunice Webster who have 
turned Strangites. 

21st Sunday I preached to a large Congregaton of Saints on Mount Pisgah And enjoyed the Spirit 
of God. I was followed by Elders Huntington, Rich Benson & Sherwood & we had a good 
meeting. 

Some Assistance was called for to Help me off. Some money was obtained And oxen & waggons 
Promised. 

After meeting An express came by letter from the President at Council Bluffs requiring 100 


Page35 




mounted men as dragoons for a guard & Buffaloo Hunters for the Camp of Israel. 

22d I laboured Hard all day to get some Black-smithing done. At night I met the people to raise 
the 100 volunteer of mounted men. I addressed them (filled with the spirit of God) on the 
importance of complying with the request made & of assisting the Twelve & those associated 
with them to go to the Mountains & lift up the standard of Zion. I then Called for volunteers & 
about 60 followed me out in the line. We appointed the next evening to meet again. 

23d I Had my tire cut & shot of my waggons to day. I met with the Saints according to 
appointment. A letter was written to report to the president what we had done in raising the 
mounted men. 

24th The wind has blown vary hard & cold from the east for two days. It commenced raining 
Hard last night like a winter storm. Has rained Hard through the day. 

25 It continued to rain through the day. But little business done. 

26th The Camp was flung into some excitement this morning by the appearance of capt J. Allen 
with 3 draggoons of the U S Armey. I soon met Br Huntington & His Council with Capt Allen to 
enquire into his business. And He informed us He was sent by order of Capt Carney who had 
recieved word so He said By President Polk to give the Monnons an invitation to raise 500 
volunteers to Assist the USA in the Mexican war. This was his pretentions. I Had some reasons 
to believe them to be spies & that the president Had no Hand in it. We however treated them with 
civility & directed them on to Council Bluffs to lay the case before the President. 

27th I spent the day in preparing to leave on Monday. Nearly all of the camp are sick. Father And 
Mother Are quite sick Also Sister King & Sarah And several of the men. I recieved A letter from 
Br Young. [] I wrote him one & sent him a messenger before the troops. 

28 Sunday I was unwell yet I preached to the Saints on Mount Pisgah. I had An interview with 
Elder Clayton. 

29 Monday It rained in the morning. I had A talk with Mother Woodruff. 

I gathered my cattle And heards & company And bid farewell to my friends in Mount Pisgah And 
passed through an exeeding bad road & crossed Grand River & travled 5 miles & camped near A 
creek. The flood Had carried away the bridge And we had to build A new one. Mrs Woodruff 
was quite sick And I was unwell myself. 

30th When I started from Mount Pisgah I Had six waggons one carriage sixteen yoak of cattle 
And 7 cows 2 mules & one Horse. In all 42 Head. 

The bridge was finished this morning & we gatherd up our cattle & started about 9 oclok. I 
stoped my Carriage on the top of a rolling prairie And I had most A splendid view. I could stand 
And gaze to the east west North & South & behold the Saints pouring out & gathering like 


Page36 




clouds from the Hills & dales grove & prairie with there teams, waggons, flocks, & Heards by 
Hunderds & thousands as it were untill it looked like the movements of A great Nation. 

We travled 10 miles & camped at a point of timber on the edge of an 18 mile prairie & camped. 

Mrs Woodruff was quite unwell through the day but better at night. 

July 

July 1st After travling A few miles we re-cieved A visit from Elder P. P. Pratt who was direct 
from council Bluffs And Bad A message to All the camp of Israel. 

I formed A circle of Some 50 waggons And the substance of his errand was that He wanted A 
company of men raised immediately to go to the mountains without there families to pick out A 
location And put in spring & fall Crops. The quorum of the Twelve volunteered to go. After we 
got our Message I drove A head as fast as possible with my teams. We drove 20 miles with our 
ox waggons And camped for the night about 10 oclok both man And beast wearied out. We 
crossed the 18 mile prairie. 

2d We journied untill about 7 oclok & Camped. I recieved An insult from Br Badham And others 
Bendered my progress And I felt to reprove them Sharply. 

3d At 10 oclock Br Pratt returned in company with Br Benson who had been nominated to fill the 
place And wear the Crown of John E Page. They wished me to return to the Bluffs with them. So 
I saddled my Horse & started And had an interesting time once more with Br Parley. 

And to add to the interest of the days ride we passed through the main village of the Potawattame 
Indians the first time I ever passed through A large village of indians in my life. 

After viewing the village & indians awhile And drinking out of A cold spring we continued our 
Journey. We rode untill dark then unsaddled our Horses And we made our bed in the grass on the 
side of A Hill. But the Musketoes soon routed us out And we had to go to the top of the Bill And 
again lay down & spent the night in the wind. I felt quite stiff & sore in the morning. 

4 July We arose saddled our beasts rode about 10 miles & took breakfast with some Brethren. 

As we had no supper our appetites were good. We were here informed that President B Young H. 
C. Kimble & W. Richards were but A short distance from us encamped. Were on there way to 
mount Pisgah. 

We immediately rode down whare they were And it was truly A Happy meeting. I rejoiced to 
once more strike hands with those noble men. They insisted upon my returning with them so Br 
Benson & myself with several of the life guard returned untill I met my family & company. Here 
I had the privilege of introducing to them my father & others. After spending A little time 
together they continued there Journey to Mount Pisgah to raise 500 volunteers to go to Calafornia 
And I stoped with my family. 


Page37 




It was a Hot day. I had rode about 50 miles And was exeeding sore And stiff And almost sick. 

5th Sunday We Journied slowly through the day & camped. 

6th It was A warm day. We continued our journey And camped at night at the same place whare I 
camped in the grass with Br Parley. An Indian Chief And some squaes camped near us. The 
Indian said He was going to meet with mormons & smoke the pipe of peace. 

7th Was An exeeding Hot day. Our cattle came near melting. Some oxen on the way did melt 
down. We camped at night within 12 miles of Council Bluffs. A camp of Indians were near us. 

8th Early this morning some 50 Indians said to belong to the Sous passed our camp for the east. 
They said they were going to meet the Mormon Chief. Supposed they ment President Young who 
had gone to Mt Pisgah. They were A Noble looking Indian. 

We remained stationary to day to let our cattle rest. I was Called to administer to Sister Grant 
who was in travel. She had A Daughter bom in 5 minutes After I left. Thus the Saints bear 
Children by the wayside like the Children of Israel in the wilderness. We lay still through the day 
in consequence of the hot weather. 

9th We continued our journey this morning. We came along side of the general encampment at 
Council Bluffs about noon. I saw the encampment of the Twelve or some of them. I had an 
interview with Elders P P Pratt & John Taylor And many other friends. I pitched my tent & 
encampemnt on a Bluff near Elders Taylor & P P Pratt. We had hard rain at night. 

We held a council in the evening about raising 500 volunteers for the President of the U.S. to go 
to upper Calafornia via Santafe. We wrote A letter & signed it to be Carried through the camp. 
Distance from Pisgah to the Bluffs 160 miles. 

10th A Hard rainy morning. I deliverd up the 16 shooter sent by me to Br Lefingwell. 

1 1th ? I spent the day in the camp assisting to gather the volunteers. We had a visit from Col 
Cane from the City of Washington confirming the declaration that President Polk had sent for 
500 Mormon volunteers. He informed us that the President was vary favorable to our people And 
had taken this course for our good. Col Cane manifested the spirit of a Gentleman And much 
interest in our welfare. From the information we recieved from him we were convinced that God 
had began to move upon the heart of the President And others in this Nation to begin to act for 
our interest And the general good of Zion. 

The object of President Polk now is to enlist 500 of the Latter Day Saints Ann feed Cloth & pay 
them, And let them go direct to Calafornia via Santa fe & take possession of that Country, And 
prepare a way for the body of the Church to Come which will make us the first settellers of that 
Country. 

12th Sunday Elders Taylors company was en-camped on the South of Chime ride of Redemption 


Page38 




Hill & mine on the North about 4 rods apart. Elder P. P. Pratts was 10 rods north of my 
Company. 

We built A Bower between Elder Taylors Tent And my own And A large assembly of Saints met 
At an early hour. I was Called upon to address them And give an account of my travels through 
England, Scotland, Wales &c which I did do for the tenn of about one hour. I was followed by 
Elder P P Pratt who reproved sin esspecially swareing And then addressed the people upon the 
subject of the Calafornia volunteers & expedition. Was followed by Elder Taylor & others And 
we had an interesting meeting. 

13th President B Young H. C. Kimball & W. Richards returned from Mount Pisgah And we met 
in Council And had a good time. All of the Quorum was present except Elder L Wight. Col Cane 
was present. 

14th The quorum of the Twelve met in council. Also A meeting of the general whole was called 
And three companies of one Hundred each volunteered for the Calafornia service was made up. 
Several measures was entered into by the Twelve. At the Close of the business of the day A 
Consert of music was called on redemption Hill And some felt so well they danced. 

15th I met in Council with the quorum of the Twelve And Passed the following resolutions: 1st 
That Elder O Hyde P P Pratt And J Taylor go to England forthwith And remove R Hedlock from 
office And attend to all Business in England Also T. Ward & Call them to America And regulate 
all business in england. 

16 * This was an interesting day to the camp of Israel And the whole Church of Jesus Christ of 
Latter Day Saints. Four Companies of the volunteers were ready for marching. They were 
brought together into A Hollow square by there Captains And there addressed by several of the 
quorum of the Twelve in A vary interesting manner. At the Close of the Addresses they marched 
in single double file from redemption Hill for 7 miles across the Missouri River Bottom to the 
ferry. 

This enlistment of 500 Latter Day Saints in the service of the USA for one year was to go to 
Santafe then to upper Calafornia to take that country And occupy it And prepare the way for 
there families who were to come after. This was by the direction of the President of the USA. 

When this 500 men were Called for they steped forth instantly at the Call of the President 
notwithstanding the 111 treatment & suffering we had endured in the Persecutions of the United 
States. Yes we steped forward as A People while in the midst of a long journey And left families 
teams waggons & cattle standing by the way side not expecting to meet with them again for one 
or two years. Yes wives & Children were left in this way to the mercy of God And the brethren 
And went away with Cheerful hearts Believing that they were doing the will of God. And while 
casting my eyes upon them I consid-erd I was viewing the first Battalion of the Army of Israel 
engaged in the United States service for one year And going to lay the foundation of A far greater 
work even preparing the way for the building of Zion. 


Page39 




The quorum of the Twelve met in Council And ordained Elder Ezra T Benson to take the Crown 
Apostleship And Standing of John E Page And as A member of the quorum of the Twelve 
Apostles of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. Some other business was Also 
Attended to. 

I rode across the bottom with the Twelve And returned Home. The Twelve took supper with me. 
Distance 10 m. 

17th I met in Council with the Twelve. Also called a general meeting of the People to transact 
business. Men were called upon to go to work on the road at the ferry. About 20 volunteered. 
Ninety men were Appointed to Act as bishops in taking Charge of the families of those who had 
volunteered to go to Calafomia via Santife. 

At the close of the meeting in company with President Young And the Twelve & others we left 
redemption Hill at Council Bluffs & rode 5 miles to the french & indian village And mills. We 
then took the Indian trail across the ridges Bluffs Hills & dales on the road that Emmit travelled 
to big Pigion And there camped for the night with some of the saints who had arived two Hours 
before us. This was the first Mormon Camp ever spent A night on Big Pigion. 

I was much troubled through the day with severe pain in my left side. I suffered much through 
the night with it. Distance of the day 15. 

1 8th My left side was exeeding lame this morning But Col Little rubed it thoroughly with red 
pepper, lumborum, whiskey &c and it was much better. 

I arose took breakfast And examined big Pigion And found it to be A stream with a cut of 10 or 
14 feet cut ha nk s about 15 feet wide from 1 to 10 feet deep with a hard blue clay bottom well 
supplyed with good fish. I saw A flock of Ducks. One Brother shot one. I went fishing And Br. 
Lot caught one white shad. I returned to the waggons. 

One company of six men crossed the big pigeon to explore the country And the Twelve returned 
with myself to redemtion Hill. From there in company with Mrs Woodruff I rode to the 
encampment near the ferry to see the Mormon Battlion of 500 men who were making 
preparations to start on there Journey. 

President Young Called the officers of the company together And gave them good teaching 
concerning there journey to Calafornia. After much interesting instruction to the officers they 
dismissed. A consort was Also given to col Allen in the Afternoon. We returned home in the 
evening. Distance 30 mile. 

19th Sunday We met the camp at the usual place of meeting. The people were Addressed in the 
morning by Elder P. P. Pratt followed by Elders J Taylor & W. Woodruff who had an interesting 
time with the people. At the Close of the meeting some 40 persons came forward & Joined the 
volunteers to fill out the company. 


Page40 




20th I spent my time hunting cattle most of the day. 

21st I met in Council with the Twelve in the morning. We Appointed Twelve men (Father 
Morley at the head) to act in the capacity of A High Council to take charge of Affairs at Council 
Bluffs while the quorum of the Twelve go on to the Island. I spent the remainder of the day 
Hunting Cattle. 

22d I spent the day in writing & conversation. 

23d I crossed the river Mo. to the camp to Attend a council with the Twelve. They had gone to 
Elk horn 18 miles And did not return untill evening. We had no council. Distance 12. 

24th Met in council with the Twelve in a tent on a High prairie ridge. Eleven of the quorum of 
the Twelve were present. We put on our robes And offered up our prayers to God. Conversed 
upon principle. Decided in council that no man has a right to Attend to the ordinance of sealing 
except the President of the Church or those who are directed by him so to do And that the 
ordinance should be confined to Zion or her stakes. This was the last Council we were expecting 
to hold Altogether before O. Hyde, P. P. Pratt & J Taylor took there departure for England. We 
had an interesting time. 

At the close of the Council Elders P. P. Pratt J. Taylor G. A. Smith And myself started for 
redemption Hill Council Bluffs east of the Mo river. We rode part of the way to the river in a 
carriage. I then walked to the river with Br Parley took skiff rowed over And started for home on 
foot. 

We undertook to take A near rode across A slew. 

It was dark. We missed our way And wandered some time in the dens weeds willows bushes &c 
but at last found our way out to the road. Arived at Br Pratts tent in the bottom And parted with 
him. While going to the bluff I lost my way again. I soon found it And arived to my tent And 
family At 10 oclock at night vary weary having walked about 12 miles since sun set. 12 m. 

25th Saturday I got together my teams early in the morning And started for the ferry to cross the 
[river]. When we arived there br Pratt was befor me with 12 waggons And it took the whole day 
to get them over so we had to spend the night on the bank of the river. Br Pratt had An exeeding 
hard days work of it. 

26th Sunday * This was one of the hardest days work of my life. We commenced at about sun 
rise to take our cows over with a skiff. We took 5 or 6 cows at a time in the water tied there 
heads to the boat, And rowed them over the river untill we had taken over 20 cows. We also took 
over some of our oxen in the same way. And we having to furnish our own men And not having 
men enough without making it vary laborious upon us all. So I took one of the cars myself And 
Assisted in ferrying in the Hot sun untill I was nearly melted. I then drove teams up the Hills 
through the mud And bad roads untill I felt exhausted. The ferry man tore open the belly of one 


Page4 1 




of my best oxen which had to be sowed up & docterd. And when I got through my days work I 
felt hardly able to stand up. 6 mile. 

27th We were all quite unwell in consequence of the fatigue of yesterday. I spent most of the day 
in my tent. 

28th I was unwell this morning but attended a Council with the Twelve whare some business was 
transacted. 

At the close of the Council I dined with Dr Richards. It immediately presented the Appearance of 
a severe storm thunder, lightning strong wind And a heavy body of water Almost instantly rushed 
upon [us]. The water beat through our waggon Covers And nearly evry thing in our waggons. 

The wind drove our family carriag down a steep hill & turned it bottom side upwards And 
smashed the top to peaces but providentially there was no one of the family in the Carriage. And 
evrything was saved that was in it bottols &c. 

Vary heavy stonns of thunder & rain continued through the night. Much rain fell. The deds 
bedding & family was drenched with water. Several tents were torn down in the camp. It was A 
vary disagreeable night. 

29th Mrs Woodruff was quit unwell this morning in consequence of the exposure through the 
night. We had A wann plesant day And A busy time in drying beds goods &c sundry articles. 

30th Spent the day Hunting Cattle. 

3 1st Went to the river with 12 yoke of Cattle & 5 men of our Company to draw up waggons from 
the river. It was an exeeding hot day. 6. 


August 

Aug 1st I spent most of the day Hunting Cattle. 

{Aug 2d 1846} Sunday I Called upon Dr Richards in the morning And spent A little time with 
him. We had A Plesant interview. President Young had rode out but returned in the Afternoon. 

We met in Council with the Twelve. Decided to winter near this place say from 20 to 40 miles. A 
messenger had Just arived from the Mormon Battalion within 30 miles of Fort Leavenworth And 
gave a good report of the Brethren. All well and in good spirits. They were doing honor to the 
cause. 

1/ |\ During the evening President Young And Dr Richards Called at my tent. President Young 
deliverd an interesting lecture upon the priesthood And the principal of sealing there being 
present: 


Phebe W. Woodruff 
Caroline Barton 


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Caroline Brown 
Mary Jackson. 

Aug 2d Mrs Woodruff was quite unwell. Is vary weak & feeble in body. Will require great Care 
in order to preserve herself in life. 

I spent A part of the day hunting cattle. I am now surrounded by two or three hundred waggons 
belonging to the Camp of Israel. 

I have been so busy in Journeying taking Care of cattle & herds And being so few men to assist 
according to the amount of labour to be done that I have not been able to do Justice to my 
Journals And keep an account of the travels of this great people to the wilderness And the 
moutains As I would like to have done. 

3d I travled 9 miles with my Company And Camped for the night. Col Cane Camped with me. 
His horse run into my tent broke all the poles & tore the tent hadley to peaces. 9. 

4th Travled with President Youngs Company 9 miles And Camped on a prairie ridge near the 
timber. 9. 

5th Rode with the Twelve & others to view the timber And find A place of encampment. 

6th I met in council with the Twelve And Also rode out And had A pleasant day. 

7th We held A public Meeting in the Camp of Israel And Chose A Council of Twelve men As A 
High & City Council to transact all business Appertaining to the settlement during the winter. 

We had a council with col Cane. Some important things were said. A resolution formed to 
address certain resolutions to the Hon president Polk with expressions of gratitude for his 
kindness to the Latter day Saints in arming 500 of them & planting them in Calafomia And 
paying them as soldiers & offering other privileges. Spoke against Gov Boggs being Governor of 
California & Oregon As his friends were trying to make him. 

President Young infonned Col Cane that our intention was to settle in the great Bason or Bear 
valley. A territorial Govennent will be petitioned for as soon as we get settelled there And some 
other business Attended to. 

We rode out in the evening And pitched upon a location in A valley the east side of the timber. 
We met in council in the evening. 

8th * Spent part of the day in council. In the evening I was baptized for the remission of my sins 
under the Hands of Elder W. Richards. I also baptised him And Mrs Phebe W. Woodruff twice 
once for the remission of sins & once for sickness & she seemed much better After baptism. I 
also Baptised Caroline, Sarah, Mary, And Rosetta King. 

? 9th _[ Sunday I met with President Young And A Congregation of Saints in the new place of 


Page43 




meeting in the valley whare the Saints expect to winter. The Stand And seats sufficient to hold 
about 300 was made the evening before. The meeting was opened by singing & Prayer. I was 
called upon to address the people. I spoke about one hour And was followed by L Young B 
Clapp L Farr And at last President Young closed with an interesting Address. 

Said He had not expected to see the rocky mountains this year but when the Lord commanded 
him to go direct He intended to go if He left all And went alone. But He thought the Lord would 
let him take the people with him. And when He found the place for the temple He would work 
Hard untill it was built. He said the Lord revelation A vision was with him &c. [] [] In the evening 
I met in council with President Young & Richards & others. It held untill about 12 oclock. We 
drew a plan for the encampment. 

101 spent the day in building a fence with my company around my encampment. I met in council 
with the High council. It is vary Hot weather. My thermometer has stood at about 100 for several 
days in the shade. 

1 1th The whole of President Youngs encampment moved on to another prairie ridge. This was 
company No 1st. It was ownly seperated from Co No 2 Elder Kimball Captain by a valley about 
50 rods. We formed a Holler Square with an * [ square ] of about 350 waggons. We then built a 
strong fence as an encloser of the whole 5 rods from the waggons. The waggons were placed 
mouth fronting the square And made a spended appearance. It was a busy day with US. 

12th I spent a vary busy day in building a fence for our cattle for about 150 head Also in looking 
up cattle. 

I met in Council with the Twelve. 

We also had a public meeting of company No. 1 in the Hollow square when the whole 
encampment was [now in yard?] divided into Eleven divisions. My company was the Tenth 
division. The following is a fonn of the copy of my division Addressed as follows: 

Aug 12 th 1846 

Cutlers Park Omaho Nation. 

The toll or memorandom of the men & boys, No of waggons, Horses, oxen, cows, mules & sheep 
belonging to the tenth division. 

Wilford Woodruff Capt 
John S Fowler Clerk 

The sum total of the tenth division is as follows: 

36 men, 33 wagons, 9 horses, 129 oxen 58 cows 4 mules & 40 sheep. 

Sum Total of President Youngs encampment: 


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Co. No. 1 of Eleven divisions 324 men, 359 Waggons, 146 Horses, 1,264 Oxen, 828 Cows, 49 
Mules 416 Sheep. 

Sum Total of President Kimballs encampment Co No 2 of [ ] divisions: 

228 Men 230 Waggons 83 Horses 741 oxen 105 young cattle 340 Cows 244 sheep. 

[ ] 

Sum Total of the whole camp of Israel 1 & 2d Companies who were together at the time of the 
enrollment: 

547 men 597 waggons 229 Horses, 2,1 1 1 oxen, 1,168 Cows * 49 Mules, 660 sheep. 

[ ] 

We had a shower of rain in the night the first we have had for several weeks. 

13th A rainy morning. Met in Council during the day. 

14th Friday An exceding hot day. I went to seek out a place for washing. My oxen ran away from 
me. I chased them about 2 miles in the hot sun and came near melting myself. 

15th I met in Council with the Twelve to attend to such business as our circumstances requred. I 
Baptized Phebe in the evening for the restoration of her health. It seemed to be a benefit to her. 

16th Sunday I met A large Congregation of Saints And the quorum of the Twelve at the meeting 
ground at Cutlers Park in the morning. O. Pratt deliverd an interesting discourse in the fore noon 
upon the Celestial law of God And the dealings of the Priesthood with the Church. Was followed 
by Father John Smith And President Young Closed the meeting by Preaching A discourse to the 
Sisters which was truly interesting. I laid hands upon A number who were sick. 

17 It was Announced this morning that Porter Rockwell had arived in Camp And brought the 
Mail from Nauvoo. I recieved one Paper showing that the Editor Dr Matlock was dead. The same 
Paper informed us that the mob spirit was still alive in Hancock Co that they were still mobing, 
whiping, And killing each other in that County. The Saints were leaving as fast as possible And 
the new citizens had taken the matter in hand And the war was now between them And the mob. 

I was in council with the Twelve & High Council. Porter Rockwell was with us. He was kept in 
jail as long as they Could & when brought to Court no man appeared against him so He was 
discharged & came to the Camp. 

Mrs Woodruff was quite ill through the night. 

18th I rode out to find water for the heard of cattle. Mrs Woodruff was quite ill this morning. She 
walked out for her health. We had a severe thunder shower. We got wet also our beds. 


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19th I spent the day at home. Was unwell. 

20th I went in the morning & carried Mrs Woodruff in her Carriage into a deep vale of a shaded 
grove to spend the day in solitude for her health. 

I returned & met in Council with the Twelve & 3 of the High Council from the Bluffs viz I 
Morley J. H. Hale & P. Richards. We spent the forenoon in doing business for the benefit of the 
People. 

In the afternoon the two High Councils & the Twelve absolved into one council for the day. We 
herd the report of Br Griffin from the Pawnee village. Stated that about 20 waggons would spend 
the winter there. 160 waggons have gone on with Br Miller to the Punkas village with 10 chiefs 
to spend the winter. The Pawnees No about 4,000 men women & Children. The Pu nk as are a part 
of the sioux Nation A strong powerful people. The signs of the times indicate the fulfillment of 
the Book of Mormon. 

Our Messenger to the Mormon Battalion returned. We also heard his report. All was well with 
the Saints in that quarter. They were getting praise & fame in all places whare they went. A mail 
was brought in from them. We conversed upon the subject of a mail route. President Young 
suggested the propriety of employing some of the Omahos to watch our cattle &c. 

We met in the evening & passed resolutions concerning cutting Hay sewing turnips &c. 

21st ^ I wrote 3 letters one to J. Ferguson one to J A. Stratton one to J Annstrong. 

22d In company with the quorum of the Twelve I rode to the Mo river. Crossed the ferry & on to 
Council point whare there was an encampment of 40 or 50 waggons. We found many sick. I 
spent the night with G A. Smith & J H. Hales & Br Harris. Distance of the day 30 rail. 

23d Sunday Aug 23 I met in Council with the 12 And A congregations of Saints at council point 
to meet with the Church for the purpose of giving council to the Saints about sending the money 
recieved from the Anny And all other funds in the hands of the Saints to St Lewis to buy goods 
& Clothing for to fit themselves out for the journey in the spring. President Young spoke first 
And was followed by Elders Kimball Smith Lyman, O. Pratt & W Woodruff & at-last Moved 
that the monies be Appropriated according to Council in bying goods clothing &c. 

We had A lengthy meeting After which we lade hands upon many that were sick And rode to 
Redemption Hill and spent the night. 6 m. 

24th Rode 5 miles to Henry Millers. There were Present 7 of the Twelve Young, Kimball, O. 

Pratt Richards W. Woodruff G. A. Smith & Lyman. We had a great feast of Melons, corn & 
vegatables After which we rode to redemption Hill & crossed Musketoe Creek on to Perkins 
Camp over Hills & dales & spent the night. 2[0?]. 

25th Tuesday We rode to redemption Hill. From thence to council Point & spent the night. Many 


Page46 




that were sick upon whom we had lade our hands were better. We lade hands upon 20 that were 
sick. 12 miles. 

26th Rode to the Mo River & crossed the ferry. Two of the Omahas were with us to the cold 
spring. Shot there steel pointed arrows to divert us. We dined at Peter Haws on the way. At the 
Cold Springs I saw Br E Snow & several families. 

From there we rode to the Camp of Israel. On the way we were in sight of the Omahas village or 
lodges which was quite A pleasant sight. We carried home to our families some vegitables. I 
found the camp on my return much improved in there health. 

I also found an evil in the camp. A man by the name of Daniel (or John) Barnum not A member 
of the Church but A wicked man had joined with other young men And was spending there time 
nights in (Iddleing & dancing And afterwards leading away young women into folley evil & 
wickedness. And Among others I found that Caroline Barton & Sarah Brown had been lead away 
by him & been with them At late hours of the night. As they were members of my family I forbid 
there going out any more with them on penalty of leaving my house. But they still continued to 
go out. 30 m. 

27th I met in council with the Twelve High Council with two tribes of Indians. First with the 
Otoes. The object of the council was to get the privilege of staying on the land this season & to 
use wood grass & water for two or three years or as long as we would wish while gathering to the 
Mountains And there seemed to be a dispute between the two tribes who owned the land. The 
Otoes said the land was theirs. We conversed some with there cheif And he went home. The 
Chief with 5 or 6 others were present. 

We then all met in council with the Omahas. The old Chief name was big Elk. His son was A 
young Chief called Young Elk. There were also present about 60 old men and Braves. As it was 
late we adjourned the Council untill tomorrow morning. 

We met in Council among ourselves & done business. Among other things appointed 3 men to 
buy up the Cattle & sell beef which was Lorenzo Young C. P Lott & A. Cutler. 

28th I 1 Met in Council this morning with theOmaho's Chiefs & braves. We smoked the pipe 
ofpeace And then President Young spoke to them through there interpeter whose name was [ 

] Informing them It was our desire to winter here And if they wished we would do some work for 
them make them a field & fix there guns &c. And many things were said which I Cannot now 
name. 

And the big Elk replyed My Son thou hast spoken well. I have all thou hast Said in my heart. I 
have much I want to say. We are poor. When we go to hunt game in one place we meet an enemy 
& so in another place. Our enemies kill us. We do not kill them. I hope we will be friends. You 
may stay on these lands two years or more. Our young men may watch your cattle. We would be 
glad to have you trade with us. We will warn you of danger from other Indians &c. Many other 


Page47 




things were said. The Council closed. The Indians were fed & returned home. 

29th Saturday * Presidents Young & Richards Met at my tent And I Called my family together & 
I lade before them the Conduct of Caroline Barton & Sarah Brown in there night Ramblings with 
unprincipled young men. Many things were said upon the subject. They manifested a disposition 
to live els whare and I wished them to do so if they would not conduct better. Elder Richards 
prophesyed to them in the name of the Lord that they would see the day that they would be 
willing to have there right arm severd from there body if that would restore them to the place & 
station they were now loosing. But in consequence of there bad conduct I sent Caroline to her 
Father & Mother & Sarah left my tent to seek some place to stay. She went to Br Bakers untill 
she could get one. 

* 

30th Sunday I met at the place of meeting with the 12 & Church. Elder Kimbal addressed the 
Meeting. I followed him. Elder Young followed & gave many principles of interest. Said we 
must have experience. If we had done right & known how to have Magnifyed the Priesthood we 
should not have been driven from Jackson County. But must have experience in order to be 
prepared to govern the kingdom of God. 

We met in council at 5 oclok at Br Kimbals tent. President Young there addressed the meeting 
And Said that it was an Eternal Principle that before God would Chose A man to rule any part of 
his kingdom He must first learn to be ruled And that the Lord was preparing A people for that 
purpose & fifty years would not pass away before many who are now present will each rule over 
many more than what I do this day. 

3 1st Monday In Company with B Young H C Kimbal W. Richards W. Woodruff & A Lyman of 
the Twelve /and G. A. Smith/ And Cutler, Cahoon Clapp Russel Nobles Father Eldridge & two 
sons Mathewe Flake & others started in search of council Bluffs. We had a plesant day & ride. 
All enjoyed ourselves well except I suffered much with sore tongue & mouth in consequence of 
canker. We rode over Hill & dale about 25 miles & Camped for the night about 12 miles above 
the bluffs. 25. 


September 

Sept 1st 1846 The first day of fall. We arose washed, prayed Breakfasted & started our journey 
down the river to find the bluffs. We came to a creek And had to build a bridge before we Could 
Cross. After Crossing the Creek the Indian trail went up the bluff which road we ought to have 
taken. But having no pilot we did not know the way. We kept [to] the table land under the bluff. 
We passed through a flat about 2 miles across it with pea vines grass woods & cane from 5 to 10 
feet high which we had to wallow through with our horses & waggons. 4 of us finally dumb the 
bluff & traced the trail back to the bridge we made & then returned to the horsman & waggons. 
We had three waggons & 10 Horsman. 


Page48 




We came to another creek which we had to bridge. After crossing it we came onto another flat of 
about 600 acres & here we found Council bluffs at about sun down. There was nothing standing 
of the old barracks except the body of the arsinal/Magazine/ with one gable end composed of 
brick arched over. 

We walked to the edge of the bluff. Before me on the bottom appeared a small grove of willows. 
Beyound it a small stream of muddy water & in the distance a dens body of cotton wood & 
willow. 1 started up a deer a few rods from me. We tried to get a shot at him but Could not. We 
also saw a wolfe go into the forest before us. 

We looked about the premises of the old Council bluffs about half an hour & seeing nothing 
inviting we started for home having traveld about one mile. We found a good spring & Camped 
for the night. We started up a deer near this place & the Horsman Chased it but lost him. Both 
man & beast were vary weary going through such heavy bottoms. We saw both signs of Elk & 
deer vary plenty. Distance 10 miles. 

2d Arose & prayed & started for the Camp of Israel which we reached in about 10 miles of the 
bluff. I spent the remainder of the day in the Camp. 10 m. 

3d I swaped my gun with Br Amasa Lyman for a rifle. We spent a little time shooting our guns. 

We met in council in the evening with the Twelve & H[igh] C[ouncil] at 5 oclok. O Pratt was 
Called upon to report there visit to the Otoes & Omaho's. He reported that the Otoes would not 
give a decision untill they came to the camp & gave a dance. The Omaho's wanted also to come 
& give a war dance on their way to war with the Sioux. The report was excepted. President B. 
Young made report of our Journey North which was also satisfactory. We had a rain during the 
night. 

4th I visited various parts of the encampment. Called upon many that were sick. 

5th In company with Br's O. Pratt, H. C. Kimball, P. Rockwell, J M. Grant, Eldridge, [ ] and 

others. I went in search of a new ferry. We travled down the Mo River 5 miles. On the bluff saw 
many Hops Elder buries & grapes, two deer, & killed one Turkey. We took with us A leather 
boat. Crossed the River with 7 persons in it & there met a committee from Council point who 
was upon the same business. This Committee was Composed of Bishop Morley, Harris, Miller, 
Richards & others. Some returned with us. We saw about 200 Brant in the river as we crossed. 

Several of us spent some time in picking grapes. We got about 2 bushels. Made A Bridge across 
A creek And started for home. While on the way we met some wolves in the road but they left 
before we got near enough to shot them. We arived home about 9 oclok at night. 15 miles. 

6th Sunday I was sick all day and did not leave my bed untill near night. Br Joseph Young Arived 
in Camp & preached to day. Was followed by Brigham Young. Good instruction was given. Two 
young men was whiped 30 blows with Hickory gads upon the bare back by the Marshall of the 


Page49 




city to day & one man yesterday for bad conduct. There Names were Daniel Bamham, Palatire 
Brown, & Clothier. And Sarah Brown & Caroline Barton who had led them into evil, needed 
Punishment as well as the young men. 

7th Col Kane Called upon me at my tent for the last time as he was about to leave for the east. He 
had been sick for several weeks but was now getting better. Before he left he desired to receive 
his Patriarchal Blessing from under the hands of Father John Smith. I went with him to the tent 
of the Patriarch who lade his hands upon the head of Col Kane & blessed him. I wrote the 
blessing & presented Col Kane with a copy of the same of my hand writing. I was with 
Presidents Young & Richard dur[ing] the evening. 

8th * I Branded my oxen & Horses with WW on the Horn of each ox & WW on the left fore 
sholdier of one gray horse & two Brown Mules. I sent into the general heard 20 Oxen 1 cow 1 
Mule 1 Horse. 

Mrs Woodruff was taken quite sick in the morning. I went and took the last parting hand with 
Col Kane who leaves the Camp this morning. Also Bishop Whitney starts for St Louis this 
morning with several Brethren to buy goods for the Camp of Israel. 

We drove our herds to the reavine this morning. 

9th I met in council in the evening. 

10th I met in council with the Twelve and partially staked out a place for a city to winter in. I 
wrote 3 Letters one to D. Webster } to L. Scammans & I F Carter. 

1 1th I spent the day at Home. Mrs Woodruff [] was quite sick. I recieved a letter from D. 

Webster. 

12th I met in council in the evening with the 12 & H Council & we had a good time. B Young 
Addressed us for a time in the power of God. He spoke of the Camp being infested with some 
unruly young men & they had been whipped for wicked conduct & they had made threats and 
others had sustained them in it. He said evil must be put down in the camp. Our council held 
untill 1 1 oclock. 

13th Sunday I met the Twelve & saints at the meeting ground. Meeting opened by prayer by O 
Pratt who arose. We have often been taught to listen to council given from the head. I do not 
consider it necessary to treat to day upon the first principles of the gospel as those things are 
understood by you as well as by me. I have thought of treating upon scientific Principles. There is 
no truth but what comes from God. It requires A portion of the spirit of God to know what 
portion of truth to lay before the people. Some Classes adore the book of Nature & deny a God. 
Others Profess to adore God and are afraid to contemplat Natural things. But evry truth should be 
acknowledged as from God. A variety is interesting & not always remain in one Channel. One of 
the most interesting feasts I ever enjoyed was in contemplating the worlds and laws by which 
they are governed. 


Page50 




Men should be learned in order to convince the learned. For instance A man rises up & says I 
will not believe a thing that I cannot comprehend by one of my 5 senses. But the learned man 
knows that many truths come by reflection thinking & not by seeing feeling hearing eating & 
drinking. 

And Again an Elder may tell a congregation that matter is an eternal principle and exhisted 
before God made this world. They would not believe it because it comes in contact with there 
tradition for they have been taught to believe from there youth up that God made the Heavens 
and earth and all the planetary system in six days out of nothing. But let that Elder become 
acquainted with facts that can be demonstrated and He Can present arguments to that people that 
will convince them. The more learned the better. 

As A proof that worlds exhisted before this was formed or at least more than 7,000 years let him 
present the demonstrated fact that through the aid of Strong glasses that planets can be seen so far 
distant that it would take 24,000 years for the light of them to reach this planet according to 
asstrinomical Calculations. They then must be 24,000 years old & just as likely to have exhisted 
millions of years before. 

Again as A proof that matter is eternal And that this earth was fonned out of unorganized matter 
let a man take a good telescope at 4 oclock in a clear morning & look at the sword in the belt of 
orion And He can see unorganized matter enough to make A Million of Million of Million of 
worlds each as large as the sun. 

A man of wisdom & Judgment can demonstrate truth for himself independant of all Authors And 
when He finds a thing is true believe it though all the world disbelieve it besides & when He 
finds a thing fals disbelieve it & renounce it though it be sustained by all Christondon & 
phylosipher and Asstronimers of the age. 

We should esstablish schools for our Children to teach them principle & truth. Learning is a good 
thing A blessing from God & will prove so to us if we make a right use of [it]. But a bad use 
would prove a curse. But because some have made A bad use of learning or even of the Holy 
Ghost & power of God as Lucipher in the rebellion of Heaven does that argue that we should not 
get learning or seak for the Holy Ghost? Certainly not. 

There are many hours that both parents & Children squander away that might be spent in 
learning. But if our Children grow up in ignoranc they with there posterity would degenerat untill 
they would be as ignorant as the savages that surround us. The Lord will not do a miracle to give 
us learning when we can get it ourselves. Some have an idea that is no matter about getting 
knowledge here thinking that by & by that they will enter heaven & that God will fill there minds 
with all the knowledge of the eternal worlds. But they will be mistaken in this for they will have 
to learn it little by little as here. 

Elder Kimball arose & said it was necessary for this People to be subject to Council like Clay in 


Page5 1 




the hands of the Potter. As to learning there is difference in men in this thing. I spent one winter 
in learning grammer and all I did learn about it was the difference between singular & plural 
Number. What knowledge I ever did get God helped me to. I desire to have that which is. 

Our spirits ought not to stoop to any mean thing & our bodies ought not to bow down to any 
wrong thing & ought not to be defded but to be used for noble purposes. And as our bodies & 
spirits are used for good and good purposes they have no time to do evil but ascendency is gained 
over evil & that spirit that has the power brings forth the fruit of its own work whether it be good 
or evil. 

He said while on this Journey many said they would do so & so if the Presidency Commanded 
them. So Brigham had to command them before He could get it done. But we should do good 
without being Commanded to do it. 

The Marshall arose & said there were some acts passed by the City Council which He would 
mention. That there be no shooting of fire arms after sun down And no timber Cut within 20 
miles of here without the direction of the Council. Also that dogs be taken care of & to shoot no 
more dogs without the order of the Marshall &c. 

President Young arose & said I wish to say a few words upon Principle. I desire the brethren and 
Sisters to be taught in all things necessary. There is one thing I want you to realize And that is 
that God Angels & Saints Heaven and all of Gods Creation are governed by law. And I want the 
Camp of Israel to understand that we must be. And if Heaven was not Controlled by law what for 
a place would it be? I would not wish to be there. For were we rushed into Heaven without law 
evry man would be in danger of loosing his rights & having them trampeld upon. But all 
Celestial beings are governed by law & perfect order. Yea the Celestial law is a perfect order of 
things A perfect system of light, law, intelligence exhaltation & glory where evry persons rights 
are sustained to the fulest extent. 

But we do not arive at this knowledge at once but as an Apostle said we have precept upon 
precept line upon line, here a little and there a little, untill we arive at a fulness of knowledge & 
glory even that fulness that reigns in the Heavens. We must begin to be governd by law here 
before we are prepared to recieve those blessings. The whole law has not been given & you 
cannot abide the whole law as yet. If it had all been given, we should have been smashed up & 
destroyed. A people must become acquainted thoroughly with law before they can abide it. 

But the time has come when we must have law and order in our midst. There has been some 
feelings of late in the camp because some unruly boys have been floged by the Marshall for there 
wickedness. But if this Camp is not willing to let law & order reign here & put a stop to such 
wickedness I wish you to let me know it & I will go away from you. For those that wish to 
sustain crime & corruption let them return & strike hands with the mob & carry out there 
principles & be dammed. But if you want to do right say so. This people have been driven here 
for there desires to do righteousness. And this wickedness shall be put a stop to that has been 
manifest in the camp by certain young people of late. Yes it will be stoped if God come out & 


Page52 




smites it by Judgment. 

The Marshall did not whip them hard enough. If He had they would not have spit out there 
revenge but it would have been whiped out of them. If I am drove to the necessity of whipping a 
person in such A case they will not spit out revenge afterwards for I will whip it out of them. 

Shall we any longer sustain in our midst men that will carry out the principles of John C Bennet 
and other corrupt scoundrils? No I will sware by the Eternal God of Heaven such Conduct shall 
be stoped & shall not be permitted in this camp. For if they continue it I will tell the Marshall 
what the law is & they shall be taken Care of in a manner that they will not whine. And I will 
whip any man that will sustain it. For those that will sustain it shall be whiped. And I prophecy in 
the name of God such a man whether old or young shall be bowed down with sorrow & morning 
even more than this people have. 

Then stop before you further go & not sport upon the brink of sorrow & morning. This people 
have the Faw of Fiberty & the gospel & the more the light & liberty & greater the privileges the 
stricter the Faw. We are going into the wilderness & shall we suffer such things? No. I swear by 
the Eternal God such things shall not be while Brigham lives. 

Br Kimball gave a good shot when He said no man [would] run into his waggon & swore he 
would shot the Marshall if he come after him except he was guilty of crime. No man is afraid 
except he is guilty. No man need be afraid that does right. I defy the world to say I have taken any 
roans right. But after we have been driven into the wilderness we are still followed by men who 
sware they will steal what they have in our midst. I sware they shall not have it in our midst. 

Some young Elders that never preached a sermon in their lives are afraid that I shall have more 
blessings than they, or more wives or sumthing or other. But let them go & preach the world over 
as I have done in poverty and distress with Blood in my Shoes & spent years & years at it & left 
my wife & Children who have also suffered much. Fet them do as we have done & they will not 
be jealous of me about blessings. If the Ford should give me a thousand women is it any mans 
business? No. Fet such go and spend as much time as I have And there will be many clinging on 
to there skirts to be saved. 

The majority of the men of the gentile world will be damned and the women wish to be saved by 
going with good men. And a woman that has the spirit of God will go with a good man who has 
been faithful & spent much of his time in saveing mankind and has the priesthood. Such men if 
they continue faithful will be saved in eternal Glory & those that are with him. I am determined 
that my affections shall be with God. I will not allow them to be placed on things that perish. 
When plagues & diseases get hold of our bodies we become loathsome & beauty fades away but 
our affections should be placed upon things that are Noble exhalted lasting & glorious. I love an 
exhalted mind for it is eternal & cannot fade. I want all my affections to be subject to God and 
glory & eternal life. May God bless you. Amen. 

14th Monday I spent the day in laying out a city for the winters encampment. 


Page53 




15th In company with Father Woodruff & John Fowler And my family I started with my carriage 
& Mules for a ride. We rode 4 miles to the general Hayfield. I crossed the tableland to the bluff 
there left the family & Carriage & we mounted our Horses & rode about 2 miles to a lake about 2 
miles in length & [.] mile wide. It was surrounded by High grass weeds, & peavine. The surface 
of the lake was dotted over with a great variety of Ducks young & old geese brant &c. I shot 6 
Ducks & got 4 of them by waiding into the lake after them. I waided for near a mile in the lake & 
weeds. Lost one of my shoes & had to travel bare foot. 

Br Fowler was taken sick. And in travelling through the high weeds, grass mud & water back to 
the place of begining I was exeeding weary, but before returning home I took my salmon rod & 
line & spent a few moments in trying to ketch fish but could not start any. We then mounted our 
mules & returned to our carriage. Took the family & returned to the camp wet cold and Hungry. 
Changed my Clothes & retired to rest. 10. 

16th A Hard rainy day. Br Shirtliff Called upon me in the morning. He had returned from the 
Punka village to get goods of Sarpe[.] to go out on a hunting tour with the Punka & Sioux 
Indians. He said they had been vary kind to them. 

I attended Council in the Afternoon. Went on to the ground in the evening to pick out a lot. 

Went at night to look up the cows in the dark. Got lost in the river bottom. Could not find the 
bridge to cross the stream for a length of time. At last I got home about 10 oclok. Was most sick 
through the night. 

17th Arose quit unwell in the morning. I rodewith Councillors B Young H. C. Kimball & A. 
Cutlerto the river Bottom whare they are cutting hay. Wefound good land for farming purposes. I 
was quite 

unwell most of the day. I attended [ ]. 12miles. 

18th I went in company with the Twelve & others to the Mo river on A piece of table land to lay 
out the city or place for the encampment. We abandoned the prairie ridges where we first laid out 
the place for the encampment in consequence of the Block winds. We held a Council with the H 
Council. They spoke there feelings. Were divided to a tie about there place of location. President 
Young spoke his feelings about it & called for a vote to have the lot located on the table land 
near the Mo river & it was A universal vote. We examined the ground. It was A vary windy day. 
10 mile. 

19th Saturday A vary windy day. Early in the morning I was on the ground for the city plot in 
company with the Twelve & others. Br Young was the chief surveyer of the plot. We laid of lots 
sufficient to settle about 150 families. We set some hooks & cot some cat fish & returned home. 
10 mil. 

I met in council in the evening with the Twelve & H. Council & several items of business was 


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attended to. At the close I conversed with Br Young & others abut A report that had reached our 
ears that the Marshall of the State of Missouri was on his way with a Posse to take the Twelve 
with some kind of a warrant. O Missouri when will thou scease seeking for the Blood of the 
Twelve Apostles And the Saints of God. 

There were 12 Horses deposited on an Island oposite of us draggoon Horses completely mounted 
for riders. Ca[. a .]ie were put on by three men. What the intention was we could not tell but such 
movement want watching. 

20th Sunday I met at the Stand with the Saints. B. Young Kimball, O. Pratt & Woodruff of the 
Twelve were present. Meeting opened by prayer by the President. H C Kimball made A few 
remarks. Said He had no time to be sick He had so much to do. If He lay down to be sick He 
would be called up so soon that he had no time to be sick & made remarks upon a variety of 
things. 

President Young followed & said he could soon answer his mind. Did not feel much like 
preaching. Had to administer to the sick Brethren [who] are labouring hard to keep soul and body 
together. When I see the suffering that this people are enduring from the conduct of professed 
Christians I feel more like fighting & swearing than preaching. For I see such strugling to live 
that I have feelings for the brethren to see them suffer for their religion. I am glad I have not 
power for I should use it. When I have I shall have knowledge to use it. 

Offenses must come but wo unto those by wholrn they come. We are followed by wicked men 
who will lie about us & run to Missouri & say we are trying to kill them & c. I hope such will go 
away & fall & die. Some are whineing because we will not strike hands with the devil. I wish 
they knew right from wrong. 

The High Council are appointed to do business for the Church. Will they not do right? Yes they 
will regulate the affairs of cutting timber and all affairs for the benefit of the people. Some act 
selfish but I want to act for the good of all. Because all things do not go to suit the convenienc of 
all some want to run to Mo. But I want to let Mo alone for they will rot in their own Corruption 
and burn up. But if any man wants to go & join the mob I hope He will get marked so as to stay 
marked untill the resurrection. Other remarks were made & meeting dismissed. 

2 1st I spent a hard days work in stakeing out our new city or location. 

22d A report reached us that A mob or company of Armed men were coming toward us from 
Missouri on the west side of the river. We called the men together in the encampment & 
organized them into A legion. Brigham Young occupied his former place as Major General of the 
Legion. Mr Stephen Markham Appointed Coiloriel, Hosea Stout 1st Major Mr [ ] Scott 2d 

Major [ ] And officers to fill out the legion the whole numbering about 500 men including 

three companies of Artillery men of 25 each. The day was mostly spent in this way. All were well 
anned and equiped for self defence. 


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23d We removed our encampment this day from the prairie ridge to the table land on the bank of 
the Missouri River which was a beautiful place for a City. The City was laid out in blocks of 20 
rods by 40 each lot 4 By 10. 1 had one block for my company which consisted of near 40 families 
so I had to put about 2 families on a block. It was a vary busy day. We had no yard so we lost 
many of our cattle at night. 

24th I Hunted Cattle all day. Most of the divi[.] drew poles & made fence to keep cattle. 

25th Square Wells arived in camp also Br Cutler direct from Nauvoo. I sat about one hour And 
herd them relate the state of affairs in that city. The mob of Hancock county & the State of 
Illinois had swollen to about 1,000 men had come upon Nauvoo & 100 of the Saints had kept 
them off 3 days. Then had a pitched battle of one hour 20 minutes & drove the mob of the ground 
with the loss of three of the Saints & how many of the mob was not known by us. 

But as Br Wells will give a public statement I shall write it more full. 

I spent the day Hunting Cattle And lost my mule saddle bridle and 2 ducks I had killed. I got wet 
& had to walk home. 15 miles. 

26 Saturday I found my Mule this morning. Saddle & Ducks all right. I spent the day Hunting 
cattle & exploring the Country. I found all our cattle And traveld a long distance up & down the 
river. I also got wet feet to day hailing several Cattle out of the mud to save life. I travled during 
the day 30 miles. 

In the evening A drove of wolves caught a calf that hauled at a dreadful rate untill He was dead. 

It was heard over the encampment. 

I was with B Young Kimball & Richard of the 12 untill midnight in council & retired to rest. 

27 Sunday I spent the morning hearing a paper from Missouri read giving an account of the battle 
between the mob & mormons of Nauvoo. Also of General Karney Anny of the west among 
wholm was 50 of the Mormons. There was a prospect of the whole Anney suffering for want ol 
food. We appointed a meeting at 2 oclok in our new city to hear a statement made by square 
Wells of the affairs in Nauvoo. Before meeting the cry of fire was heard on the prairie grass ol 
the encampment & all run to put it out & it was soon extinguished. 

Meeting opened at 2 oclok PM at the Council Block. Meeting opened by prayer by O Pratt who 
also remarked that we had suffered by the gentiles A long time; but had now gone out of there 
midst & hoped we should rest for a season from there grasp. Had rather suffer the fatigues of this 
wilderness journey and live on game than suffer by mobs. Would rather fall into the hands ol 
God than a mob as God is more merciful. I have heard the prophet say that God Could not 
controle the wicked at all times and let them act upon their agency without operating upon them 
as a machine. I am contented whare I am but should be more so if we had an abundance of the 
necessaries of life. 


Page56 




The mob at last have had courage after gathering & threatning for about 6 years to come against 
the Saints in Nauvoo. From one thousand to twelve hundred men had came against one hundred 
of the Saints and have a pitched battle. But the Saints went out to Battle in the name of God & 
their enemies were defeated. 

Daniel H Wells arose and said, I will by request give a short account of affairs in Nauvoo 
concerning their late difficulties. You have heard that men were lynched there. We took 15 of the 
offenders who were sent to Quincy for a trial were let out on bail. The mob then issued writs 
against Picket, Clifford & Furnice. The two latter went. Picket would not. A mob was then raised 
as a possee to execute the writs they said. They staid several weeks to increas there numbers. 

They had at first about 300 /And increased to 1,000/. The 100 men we had lay in ambush for the 
mob. They canonaded through the day but done no hann. Next day they tried the same again. We 
repelled them. On Saturday at one oclok they advanced upon the city with 1,000 or 1,200 men. 
We met them in the name of God and gained the victory. The action lasted one hour & 20 
minutes. They fired 42 Cannon Ball & we 32 Ball. Though the mob were 10 to our one they were 
defeated & retreated from the Battle field. 

We had three Killed and none wounded. The mob would not acknowledge any killed but we 
walked over the battle ground & found a plenty of mob blood. One man not a member of the 
Church said He saw them put 1 5 bodies in one waggon that were handled like dead & other 
waggons were loaded in the same way. One of the Saints lying in a suller saw 8 wounded brought 
to the building each one telling whare he was shot. They dug at there intrenchment after the 
battle. It was supposed they buried there dead there. 

The next day was Sunday. They did not shute any. We flung some ball & burst one cannon. On 
Monday the mob sent us a cannon ball to let us know they had some left & we sent it back again. 
During the fight the boys would watch the cannon Ball strike & run & get it & bring it to us & 
we would send it back. 

On Tuesday a committee was sent to us to make a treaty but it was rejected by both parties. A 
Brigade was then Called for, but afterwards A treaty was made. We agreed to surrender the City 
& leave in 5 days. On Wednesday evening the treaty was made and the Saints began to pack up 
their goods and the next day all goods was removed. 

As the mob came in we left 2 Blocks in advance. We met many of the Saints on this side of the 
river in distress & it drew tears from the eyes of some of the mob. We saw camp fires of the mob 
the same night we left on both sides of the river. 

There were scenes transpired in the siege enough to melt the heart of a stone. The lynching of 
men when they are labouring for a living & whiping them untill they cannot stand alone as the 
mob did was a damnable thing. They made them kneel on a spot whare they said some one was 
buried. Placed them in a position so they Could be whiped easy. An old revolutioner was one of 
them and was so beat by the mob that He has not been able to get about all summer. I have an old 


Page57 




grand Father, A Revolutioner. I have thought I would not let him know any thing about it but 
keep it from him that his feelings may not be harrow up as he is about ready to step into his 
grave. But I will say no more but give way for Father Br Cutler. 

Br Cutler arose and said I can bear my testimony that what Br Wells has said is strictly true 
according to the best of my knowledge. If I was to talk untill sun down the whole Could not be 
told. I have been kept in Nauvoo by the hand of God. Others wanted to have been here and would 
have been had it not been necessary to have stoped to save our brethren there who could not get 
away. I know the hand of God has been made manifest in the salvation of the people in Nauvoo. I 
thank God I had a hand in the battle. And the hand of God was so visible in that battle that many 
that were weak & faltering have been much strengthend by it and will gather with the Saints. I 
did not expect that God would deliver their enemies into their hands but expected that God 
would save them out of the hands of their enemies and this he has done. 

I was sensible we must leave Nauvoo. The time has come for us to depart. God has Called upon 
us to Go and if we will not he will let the mob loose upon us to drive us out. But they will not get 
any Glory for it but will have to suffer for their wrongs to the [Saints]. I hope the day will come 
when we shall not have to suffer from Mobs as we have done. But if we had sought to have saved 
our lives in this case by fleeing many would have lost them for but few could have fled. But we 
went out in the name of God and Conquered through the blessings of God we done well. 

One Brother put on a sheep bell and went near the camp to spy out the enemy and they supposed 
it to be a sheep. The mob do not acknowledge they had any killed dut they had a good deal of 
Blood spilled which they could not cover up which I saw. Capt Smith who was Capt of the guard 
at the time of the death of Joseph was shot in the neck but not killed. Another commander was 
also shot. We have done the best we could, to kill the poor Devels and we are satisfyed with the 
result and leave it all in the hands of God. 

Br Wells has done well in all places where he has been put, in the midst of danger as well as 
safety. With regard to the Citizens of Nauvoo there were but few who stood by us in time of 
trouble. There are many spirits in Nauvoo that are like bats ready to join any party that conquer. 

If the beast conquer they will show there legs. If the featherd tribe there wings. We left the mob 
in the city hoping that the time would come when we could gain a greater victory over them. 

President Young arose and said I wish to make a few remarks attached to the remarks that have 
been made. I will inform the brethren that have come up we are glad to see them. Br Cutler has 
been with us before. Br Wells has been in our society for several years and I have had 
considerable acquaintance with him and I am more than ever satisfyed with his course. We have 
prayed for our brethren continually. 

I am sensible there is a good deal of suffering there and here. But let me say the Lord God who 
has fed us all the day long has his Care still over us. When the Saints are Chastened enough it 
will scease. At least the hand of God will be visible in there salvation. Some individuals may fall 
but the body will be sustained. I have never believed the Lord would suffer a general Massacree 


Page58 




of this people by a mob. If 10,000 men were to come against us if no other way was open the 
earth would open and swallow them up. Some say they can stay in Nauvoo and can live there in 
perfect peace they are so righteous. There are some that have no better eyes than to say let me 
live with the wicked in peace. But there blessings will be scearce with the mob and if they do not 
leave I fear they will prove a scourge in the hands of God. He works with the wicked by law and 
when they trespass upon his rights God is there to maintain them. Many other remarks were 
made by President Young when meeting was dismissed one hour. 

During the intennission I visited the sick. Council met in the afternoon and attended to some 
business on hand. 

28th I went over the river & took a ramble for House logs to some of the company. Dug out a 
canoe. 12. 

29th I went up the river on the west side in company with several others. I Cut 100 House logs 
And returned home very weary. 14 m. 

30th I went up the river to day & cut about 100 House logs within about 2 miles of the Camp. 4. 

October 

Oct 1 st I was nearly sick And confined to my bed in consequence of hard labour. 

2d I spent a part of the day in council. 

3d I spent this day in council & the evening. 

4th Sunday O Pratt deliverd a sennon on the first principle of the gospel. Had an intermission 
one hour. During this time O Pratt, A Lyman and W. Woodruff laid out the city of the Camp of 
Israel named Winter Quarters into thirteen wards and appointed a Bishop over each ward. We 
ordained six of the Bishops. There was A Council in the evening to transact such business as was 
necessary. 

5th I prepared myself this morning for a graping expedition. I harnessed my horses into my 
carriage & took into it [4/5?] women to pick grapes & rode to the new ferry. Crossed. From 
thence went to Council point. Shot 3 prairie chickens on the way. Called upon Br J Alread. Got 
some refreshments then drove 3 miles. Had to cut a road half a mile for my carriage. 

Got on to the grape ground at dark. Built a fire. Went to the Mo & got water. Turned Horses to 
grass. The women all camped in the wagon And I under it. We had a bright moon light night And 
I Could not sleep. I took my rifle & hunted on the bank of the river several hours about midnight 
for Deer wolves & geese & got none. 20 miles. 

6th Arose at Day light. Breakrased on a prarie chicken stew. Went on to the grape ground. Found 
the grapes on Cotton woods & willows. I cut down several hundred of them during the day the 
size of my arm & leg. And we all laboured hard untill sun set picking grapes. We picked over 


Page59 




three Barrels of Bunch grapes & started for home by moon light. We returned as far as the ferry 
but Could not cross And had to camp for the night. 10 miles. 

7th Crossed the ferry early in the morning And returned to the Camp of Israel quite weary. We 
commencd getting juice out of the grape. We got out about 20 gallons of juice for wine, And met 
in Council with the Twelve. Almon Babit one of the Temple Trustees was present with us 
wishing some council in regard to the affairs of Nauvoo. He and square Picket brought a large 
Number of exchange papers Containing the news from various parts of the United States. We 
herd it rumoured that Br R Hed-lock had borrowed $7,000 dollars on the credit of the Church and 
fled to parts Unknown. Many things were talked over during Council. 

I attended to the funeral serveces of Br Ashbel Dewey who died yesterday morning. I Also 
attended to the funeral serveces of Br Ensign last week both from west field Massachusets. 

8th I spent a part of the day making wine. I Attended 2 Councils with the Twelve. I herd A letter 
read from John Taylor from New York containing an account of his travels, labours &c the 
downfall of Rigdonism Strangism &c. Among other things He sent us A paper containing a letter 
from A person on board of the Brooklin. They had good luck in doubling Cape Horn And on the 
1st of May was on the Island of Juanfernandez on there way to Calafomia. 

A Babit returned home to day. 

In the Afternoon in company with O Pratt I went through the encampment And looked [up] 
several men who had been called and chosen to the office of Bishop. We ordained three to the 
office of Bishop. 

/9th/ 1 wrote some ^ in a letter [to] E. H. Davis of London. I had a touch of the Ague to day. 

9 10th The whole encampment went up to the general herd ground to gatherd the cattle. I felt 
unwell in the morning. 

1 1th Sunday A hard rainy day. A herd of about 2,000 Head of cattle was drove into the 
encampment this morning. And while the rain poored down in torents I with many others had to 
go into the midst of the herd & seperate my cattle. I was quite unwell with the ague but got 
thoroughly drenched with water. I laboured hard in the rain through the day. 

12th I rode around the lake & through the bottoms after Cattle. 10. 

131 spent most of the day in attending to the funeral and burial of A Niece of Dr Willard 
Richards. 

14th Our Division spent most of the day in building a bridge over Turkey Creek. I spent most of 
the day in mending & regulating my tent & choreing &c. 


Page60 




Oct 15th 1846 ■?$ This was a serious day to me. I took my ax and went into the woods to cut 
some board timber in company with two other brethren. While falling the third tree I steped back 
from the tree several feet. But when it fell it shot back of the stump several feet & bounded and 
struck me in the breast & knocked me several feet into the air against a standing Oak. And the 
fallen tree caught me against the standing oak and I came down crushed between the two trees. I 
badly brused my left thigh and Hip and left ann broke my breast bone into about 6 inches and 
broke 3 ribs on my left side, bruised my lungs and vitals. After the accident I sat down upon a log 
and waited until Br John Garrison went a quarter of a mile to get my horse. 

Notwithstanding I was so badly hurt I had to mount my horse and ride 2 1/2 miles over a rough 
road my bones being so badly broaken evry stept went through me like an arrow. I rode to Turkey 
Creek And was exhausted. Was there taken off and carried in a chair home. Elders Young, 
Kimball, Richards and others met me in the street and assisted me home. I was laid upon my bed 
exhausted whare I lay without being able to moove much untill my bones knit together. They 
began to knit on the 9th day but I was not able to sit up in bed untill the 1st of Nov. 

November 

Nov 3d I was dressed to day for the first time since my accident. 

Nov 4th 0 Our little Joseph was taken sick this day. Had taken cold and setteled upon his lungs. 

I this day for the first time went out of the waggons with the assistance of two persons. I was 
enabled to walk to my tent And also to Sisters Benbow waggon whare she lay vary sick. Br and 
Sister Benbow had been with us several days. Sister Benbow was exeeding low when she came. 
Hardly expected she would live. Mrs Woodruff used evry exhertion to Nurs her up that she might 
recover. 

5th I this day walked to the tent alone with the aid of a staff. Joseph is a failing. Is dangerously 
sick. 

6th I was enabled to walk better to day. Joseph is not any better. 

7th I am gaining daily in strength But Joseph is failing. I Called upon the Elders to administer to 
him. Sister Benbow is also vary low. 

8th I was enabled to walk to Dr Richards tent to day. Mrs Woodruff has to spend her whole time 
day and night with Joseph as he is in a dangerous situation. 

9th I am now enabled to walk about with much more strength but my breast and side is still vary 
weak. Joseph is still failing. 

10th [] I recieved 3 letters to day two from Elder J. A. Stratton, one from Br and Sister 
Armstrong. Joseph had the appearance of Dying in the afternoon and evening but revived at 
about 12 oclok. 


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1 1th I spent several hours with Joseph. Supposed each moment to be his last but again revived at 
midnight. 

NOV 12th 1846 {JOSEPH} We found our little boy was failing and Could not possibly hold out 
longer. Evry exhertion had been made to make him comfortable And if possible to restore him to 
health but it seemed that He must go. He continued to fail through the day and night. 

Sister Abbot took the main Charge of him during the night as Mrs Woodruff Strength was mostly 
exhausted. He had suffered much from convulsions during his sickness but He breathed his last 
and fell asleep this morning 1 5 minuts before 6 oclok. And we took his remains to the grave at 4 
oclok in the afternoon. We truly felt that we were called to make a great sacrifice in the loss of 
our son Joseph. [ ] I met in the council of {50} part of the day. 

Nov 13th I spent the day perusing exchange Papers. Also the 14th. 

15th Sunday I attended meeting a part of the day. Attended council in the evening. 

16th A rainy day. I had an interview with Br Shirtliff and others from the Punkas village. I wrote 
a long letter to Bi ^ J A Stratton & Armstrong. 

17th 18th 19th 20 & 21 I began to labour once more during these days as I was overwhelmed in 
business, as is the case with the whole Camp of Israel. I have never seen the Latter Day Saints in 
any situation where they seemed to be passing through greater tribulations or wearing out faster 
than at the present time. 

After being exposed to the sufferings of a tedious journey of 10 months in tents and waggons 
without Houses we are oblieged to build a city of log Houses numbering more than one thousand 
for the purpose of stoping in about three months & having to go a great distance for timber & 
wood & get it out of deep ravenes and hollows which makes it vary hard to endure. I am trying to 
build a log house for myself & one for Father Woodruff. 

22d Sunday I spent the day at home. 

24th 25, 26 I spent labouring upon my house. Sister Benbow has been growing much wors for 
several days past. 

27th I laboured hard through the day on my house And in the evening in company with Mrs 
Woodruff I went into Br Benbows to watch with Sister Benbow. She began to fail in the fore part 
of the evening & continued to grow weaker untill about 30 minutes past 1 1 oclok when she drew 
her last breath & fell asleep and now rests from her labours and her works will follow her. She 
has administered to my wants and the wants of my brethren the Twelve in a foreign land and 
done much good for which she shall not loose her reward. 

28th Br Benbow is also quit sick. Sister Benbow was laid out in her garments according to her 
endowments. 


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{JANE BENBOW} Nov 29th 1846 Sunday We attendedto the burial of Sister Benbow this day. 
Br Benbowwas not able to follow her to the grave. I went with my family. [ j 

30 I spent labouring upon my house. 


December 

Dec 1st 1846 I am quite unwell having much pain in my feet and ancles and they also swell. Still 
I am labouring daily. 

2d I worked upon my house. I shoveled dirt upon the mill race one day. 

3d I assisted Dr Richards to finish his house, tower, or rotunda whatever it may be Called. It was 
framed round or eight square coverd with puncheon & we put upon it 50 loads of dirt. I drew the 
first load & superintended the building during the day. 

4th & 5th I laboured upon my own house. 

6th Sunday * I moved into my house. MrsWoodruff was sick. 

7th I spent at home. 

Dec 8th 1846 0 At half past 3 oclock this morning Mrs Woodruff was delivered of A Son which 
was untimely six weeks before her time. The boy was alive smart and active yet we cannot 
suppose him to live but a short time. We call his name Ezra. Mrs Woodruff is doing as well as 
can be expected. 

9th The Child seemed quite distressed through the day. The Iowa Indians came in the place & 
Shot 3 Omahas. One was the Chief. 

10th Ezra Woodruff Died this evening at half past 9 oclok. 

Dec 1 1th {EZRA} We attended to the burial of our Child to day being about 2 days old when it 
died. This is the second son we have buried within a short time. Mrs Woodruff is quite unwell. 

During this day the main body 'T of the warriors belonging to the Omaha Nation were out on a 
hunting party And were surrounded by a party of the Sioux & 60 of the Omahas were Killed 
which was great loss to the Nation. 

12th I spent the day at home except I drew a load of wood. 

13th Sunday I spent the day at home writing in my Journal. There is great wailing and morning 
among the Omahas in consequence of the death of 60 of their warriors. The Agent and interpeter 
of there tribe came into town to day to hold a council. Mrs Woodruff is quite sick to day. 

14th I spent the day at home. 


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15th * I met in council with the Twelve High Council & Bishops. The camp of Israel is divided 
into streets. Blocks, and wards And A Bishops appointed over each ward to see to the poor, 
widows, and to keep an account of what each man is doing. And the Twelve High Council and 
Bishops meet each week to do Business and to carry business teaching & instructions to the 
Saints in each ward. 

There is begining to be munnerings through the camp and much wickedness that the Lord is not 
pleased with. The Saints appear at the presant time some as the children of Israel did while in the 
wilderness & the Nephites on this continant. At times they would forget their God and turn to 
wickedness. And while in council this evening the High Council Asked President Young for 
some teaching. 

He arose and said He had no teaching to give at present but to cry repentance to the people, And 
he would begin with the High Council. They must repent and the camp of Israel must repent or it 
would not be long before A man Could not bear the priesthood upon his head in there midst And 
the Twelve would have to flee out of there midst and go to the mountains which would be a great 
curse to this people. 

H C Kimball arose and related a dream. Said He was travelling with President Young vary fast 
and they thought they could fly and they flew through the air and lit down upon a large plain. 

And they saw it coverd with large groups of snakes and they had to jump from place to place to 
get over them but they lay still while they were in there midst. Brother Young said the 
interpetation was the people were full of evil and speaking evil of them but would not grumble 
while they were present. 

16th I put father Woodruffs Ruff on his House and they moved into it. 

17th I drew Hay to day. Met in Council in the evening. Some of the Bishops made a report of 
there wards. We herd a letter read from Br Holebrook at the Punka Nation who had been to 
search out a road to Fort Larame. 

18th I spent the day getting Br John Shennan Fowler ready to go to Missouri to get a load of 
Provisions for the family's use. In the evening I went to the store to trade out my bill of goods 
consisting of shugar Molasses, Salt, Salaratus, cotton cloth drilling striped shirting flannel cotton 
batting shoe thread coffee tea, a lantern 3 primmers calico and [.] amounting in all to $[ ]. 

Returned home. Mrs Woodruff took out of her family box her portrait to see the likeness of her 
little Joseph we had buried. 

19th After spending the day to get Br Fowler ready to start He crossed the ferry about sun set. 

Dec 20th 1846 Sunday According to previous appointment I met with our ward for an 
organization according to the araign[ment?] of the Camp And to teach instruct and rebuke as the 
case may require. We met at Br Ensigns at half past 10 oclock. 


Page64 




I opened the meeting by singing and prayer And addressed the people. I confessed my own sins 
And in some respects the sins of the 14th ward in which I dwell for they were varily guilty before 
God of many wrongs. I warned them to repent before the Lord or a scourge would come upon 
them. 

I was followed by Elder G. A. Smith And O Pratt. Br Smith spoke of there treatment towards me 
in not building me a house as I had been sick. Said when there would be another temple built 
they would be pulling the buttons off my coat to get into the temple to recieve their blessings &c 
And taught much good doctrin. Asked if they had yet got there inheritances sealed to them on the 
earth and in heaven. If not they had yet still sumthing to do. 

0 Pratt Addressed us also with much interest. Spoke of the trials we were Called to pass through 
and that the hand of God was in it and it would all work together for good if we made a right use 
of it. 

We were informed there was to be a meeting at the stand so we dismissed our meeting & 
repaired to the stand whare we found a large Congregation of saints and President Young was 
addressing them. The following are some of the important words that flowed from President 
Youngs lips as He addressed the people and called upon them loudly to repent. He said: 

You must stop your swearing. You must stop your cheating. You must stop your lying. You must 
stop your stealing. You must stop your Horedoms. You must stop your back biteings speaking 
evil of the Twelve speaking evil of me. You must stop these things & put away your wickedness 
or you will be damned. You will be destroyed. You will be visited by pestilence and plague and 
by the Sword, and you will fall to the ground. And I warn you and fore warn you of these things 
if you do not repent. 

Yes councellors, High Priest and Elders Here in the Camp of Israel will say I will de damned if I 
will pay my tithing or if I will do this or that. If God was like man He would Hurl you down to 
Hell & let you lie and welter there a thousand years and his mercy ownly keeps you out. There 
are many Here that are corrupt and rotton at the core and I have no more fellowship for them than 

1 have for John C Bennett. If I fellowship these things it will drag me down to Hell with you and I 
will not do it. 

Brother Joseph being a vary merciful man bore with these things untill it took his life but I will 
not do it. Men get led away by degrees untill the devil gets possession of there tabernacle and 
they are led captive at the will of the devil. And now I say that those who are Calculating to 
continue in wickedness and serve the devil had better go no further with this Camp. They had 
better go to Missouri and spend the rest of there time with the gentiles for I can swear to them if 
they go with us & continue there wickedness there Heads shall be sevred from their tabernacles 
and the devils that are in them shall go and have no tabernacles to dwell in. 

The truth of the matter is there are many places we pass through that have been the slaughter 


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ground of the ancient Nephites and Lamanites and the spirits of Devils are hovering around it and 
if you are not on your guard they will enter you and lead you captive at their will. For if you are 
not governed by the spirit of God you will be by the spirit of the devil. And if you are governed 
by the spirit of God while in such places and they cannot enter any of you they will try to enter 
your cattle your beast for they want to enter some tabernacle as they did the swine in ancient 
days. 

I had rather go to the mountains with the Twelve alone and not to have another soul with us than 
to have those who will not be subject to the Priesthood but practice wickedness and serve the 
devil. For if we continue with this company and they do not repent the righteous will fall with the 
wicked. There are people now in this camp who are stealing hay and wood and I know who they 
are. Will I fellowship them? No I will not. And because we know who is guilty of wickedness 
they think we are fellowshiping them and doing the same ourselves but it is not so. And Joseph 
suffered much from the same cause because He knew of the rascality and wickedness. His 
enemies and many of the saints thought He was guilty of it himself. The truth of the matter is 
those who are leading the House of Israel while in the path of there duty know the wickedness 
that is among the people. It cannot be hid from them for they are in vision all the time. 

I will now look a little upon the other side of the question. I will say However that if we are 
amind to be subject to the will of the devil, Death Hell and the grave we may be & bow down to 
it all the day long or we may have perfect power and triumph over it. Who am I surrounded by? 
Men who have entered into covenant with God, have recieved endowments in the temple and are 
called to be saviors upon mount Zion. To save who? Our Fathers and Israel clear back to Father 
Adam who are still lying in there graves and waiting for the redemption of there bodies through 
your instrumentality. 

Then will you curs swear, lie, steal, commit Adultry and take that name of God in vain? Putty 
saviors you would be. O shame. God and Angels would blush at such conduct. Then repent and 
do the work appointed you. 

Many men are overtaken in a fault desire to repent and turn to God. Shall we call such away? 

Nay but bear with them as God bears with us. We cannot be sanctifyed all at once, but have to be 
tried and placed in all kinds of shapes and proven to the utmost to see whether we will serve the 
Lord unto the end so that we may be safe when we come into the Celestial Kingdom of God and 
not do as Lucipher did the first time an oppertunity is offered rebel against God and the Council 
of Heaven and be hurled down to Hell in a manner that you could not be redeemed at all. 

And you must not sin murmur and complain while in the midst of your trials because you have 
been mobed and tried even to the utmost. It is no excuse for you to commit a wicked deed take 
the name of God in vain or to do any evil. Now all of you quit it. Repent and turn to God and you 
shall be blessed. 

Notwithstanding I have thus reproved you I consider you the best people as a body there is on the 
earth and if there was any better I would go to them and take you with them that desired to go. 


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In speaking of the redemption of our dead I would say there are millions that died from the days 
of Adam to Christ that are waiting for there bodies to be raised. But few arose in comparison to 
the Number at the resurrection of Christ and they were some that had the priesthood or fulness of 
it sealed upon them. After making many other usful remarks He closed by blessing the people 
believing they would repent. 

The remarks of president Young made a deep impression upon the congregation And I trust there 
will spedily be a refermation in the Camp of Israel. 

I also met in council in the evening with the Twelve High Council and Bishop And Herd the 
report of the Bishops of each ward and other business attended to. 

The following is a true report of the camp of Israel in this city called winter quarters on this 20th 
Day of Dec: 

Total number of Souls 3,483 


Sick persons 334 

Well men 502 

Sick men 117 

Absent men 138 

Days tithing 84 1/2 

Cords of wood drawn 83 3/4 

Days on mill race 5611/4 

Waggons in camp 814 

Horses 145 

Mules 29 

Yokes of oxen 388 1/2 

cows 463 

Policemen 19 

Women whose husbands 
are in the Anney 53 

Widows 75 


21st This day was taken up mostly in drawing logs for a Council House. I spent a part of the day 
at home. Mrs Woodruff is still quit sick and is passing through afflictions and trials. 

22d I spent this day in assisting the Twelve in laying the foundation of the Council House which 
is to be built of large logs 32 by 22. 

23d I was quite unwell this morning yet I went to the woods with Father and choped 3 loads of 
wood & brought home 2 loads. I attended meeting in the evening with our division. Br Benson 
attended with me and followed me in addressing the people. 

I met in Council with the Twelve on the eve of the 22d. Among other things President Young 


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spoke upon some Principles. One was concerning love between man and wife Male and female 
as it would be in the morning of the resurrection. That in this life much called love was more the 
effect of passion than principle but in the resurrection the love to the man would be according to 
his exhaltation and glory. 

24th I was quite unwell this day. I spent the day at home Choreing choping wood &c. 

25th Christmas The dawn of Day was saluted in the camp of Israel by the report of cannon from 
the Hills by the Artilery. I met in council with the Twelve [_ and others and spent the day in a 
profitable manner. Also the evening. 

26 j_ Spent this day in Council also. 

27th Sunday I met in council at [_ 10 oclok & spent the forenoon. Met with the Saints at the stand 
at 1 oclok. O Pratt E. T Benson and W. Woodruff Preached to the People and at 3 oclok again 
met in Council and sat untill dark with the Twelve. The High council and Bishops then came in 
and sat untill 10 oclok. 

28th I spent the day at work on the Council House. We were visited from a man from Hancock 
County. His stay was short. 

29th I went into the woods with Father Woodruff and cut and drew two loads of wood. Was 
informed on my return Home that the quorum of the Twelve met in council at Br Kimballs at 3 
oclok. I prepared myself as soon as possible & met with them. 

The principle object of meeting was to take into consideration the subject of organizing a pioneer 
company to go forward and put in crops in the spring and prepare the way for the Camp of Israel 
and also to make preperations for the moving of the camp. 

The fore part of the evening was occupied in conversing upon a variety of subjects And Had a 
little intermission during which time Elders Young Kimball and others had a little recreation and 
bodily exercise and had prayers after which Presidents Young and Kimball spoke in tongues a 
while. 

We then went into council the final decision of which was that we fit out a pioneer company and 
follow them as soon as grass grows. The pioneer company to go this winter as far as they could 
go on rushes and brows then as far as they could on grass untill it was time to put in there com 
crop. We had a good time together and adjourned about 10 oclok. 

30 I spent this day pitching Hay. I went 4 miles loaded two loads turned one over on a side Hill. 
Had it to load over and stack them both on my return home, was vary weary. 

3 1 The last day of 1846 I spent choring and attended council at night with the Twelve High 
Council Bishops &c. 


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On my return home from Council I looked over my Journal for 1846 And the result of my 
labours will be found on another page. 

And thus another year has past and gone into eternity and has bourn its report to God of me and 
all other men. I still live upon the earth with my brethren the Twelve while many of my brethren 
have been called into the eternal world. Whatever I may have done or left undone not pleasing in 
the sight of my Heavenly Father I ask God my Heavenly Father in the name of Jesus Christ his 
Son to forgive me and give me grace according to my day during the year to come and give me 
power and a disposition to do good all the days of my life be they few or many and to save 
myself and household and all committed to my charge. 

One year ago this night I was in Liverpool England but this night finds me in the midst of the 
Camp of Israel, at winter quarters in the Omaha Nation in the wilderness in the land of Joseph 
surrounded by the Lamanites who are poor wreched and miserable and have been so for many 
generations in consequence of the sins of there forefathers According to the prophesies of the 
Prophet Lehi we have been rejected by the gentiles on this land or continant even the land of 
Joseph. And the gentiles have shed the blood of the Prophets and Patriarchs JOSEPH & HIRAM 
And others and have sought the lives of the Apostles and Saints and have driven us out of their 
midst and thereby have rejected the Kingdom of God with the keys, oracles, & revelations 
thereof which we have taken with us, which remain with us this day in the Camp of Israel. 

And my prayer to God is that they may remain with us and our Posperity through all time and 
through all Eternity and that the same blessings may spedily go to the Lamanites and that 1 847 
may not pass Away untill the Lamanites with their Chiefs may begin to recieve the gospel which 
the gentiles have rejected and cast out of their midst and that the Lord will spedily deliver us 
entirely out of their hands and Avenge the spilt Blood of the Prophets And that they may cease to 
spoil and be spoiled and that they may feel the chastning rod of the Almighty And know there is 
a God in Israel. 

AD. 1846 Has been a day of the sacrafice of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. 
Through the fatigues and labours & exposers of the Saints many have been laid in the grave. I 
have myself been called to part with two of my sons which God hath given me. They lie in the 
dust untill the resurrecton. And I came nigh being killed by accident by the fall of a tree which 
broke my breast bone and three ribs. But through the great goodness of God I was preserved and 
have recoverd and still live for which I feel to render the gratitude of my heart to my Heavenly 
Father. 

And I pray my Heavenly Father to lengthen out my days to behold the House of God stand upon 
the tops of the Mountains and to see the Standard of Liberty reared up as an ensign to the nations 
to come unto to serve the Lord of Hosts. I Pray that my Brethren the Twelve may be preserved to 
esstablish Zion upon the mountains of Israel and lead the camp of Israel to a land of Peace, health 
and safety. All these blessings I ask God my Heavenly Father in the name of Jesus Christ and by 
virtue of the Holy Priesthood AMEN. 


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{========================= 

The following is A synopsis of the travels and labours of W Woodruff during the year of AD 
1846: 


Traveled Miles 7,436 

Attended Councils with the Twelve 3 1 

Attended Councils with Indian Chiefs 2 

Held meetings 26 

Baptized 6 

Ordained Bishops 9 

Administered to the sick 56 

Wrote Letters 70 

Recieved Letters 56 


========================= } 

During the year AD 1 846 my time has not been occupied in preaching in the vineyard and 
building up Churches, but I left the field of my labours in Liverpool England at the begining of 
the year. Since that time I have Crossed the Atlantic And traveld the bredth of the United States, 
gathered my friends and many of the Saints out of the gentiles and Joined the Camp of Israel in 
there Joumeyings to the wilderness and passed through all the trials privations and sufferings 
attending such a Journey and the responsibilities and cares upon the Twelve are daily increasing. 

1847 to 1853 / 6 years 
472 Pages Wilford Woodruff 
6 

January 1st 1847 
to 

December 31st 1853 Note(l) 

I looked over my Journals Commencing with AD 1834 ending with AD 1846 Making thirteen 
(13) years during which time I have travled sixty one thousand six hundred & ninety two miles 
/(6 1,692)/ Crossed the Atlantic Ocean four times travled through England Scotland & wales and 
on six Islands of the sea through twenty of the United States several times and the Canidas. Held 
one thousand sixty nine meetings (1,069) held eighty six (86) Conferences, One hundred & 
twenty three Councils (123). 

Baptized six hundred & thirty four (634) persons And assisted in the baptism of hundreds of 
others. Was baptized for thirty six Dead friends (36). Confirmed eight hundred & thirteen (813). 
Ordained two Patriarchs (2) Nine Bishops (9) Three High Priest 3 Three Seventies 3 One 
hundred fifty six Elders (156) One hundred forty two Priests (142) sixty three Teachers (63) And 


Page70 




thirteen Deacons (13). 

I have Administered by anointing and laying on of hands unto three hundred and sixty four sick 
persons (364) many of which were healed. I Blessed (194) one hundred and ninety four Children. 
I Married seven couple (7). 

I Planted fifty one churches (51) esstablished seventy seven Preaching places (77). Had ten mobs 
rise against me 10. 

I recorded thirty of the Prophet Joseph's sennons (30) And twenty five of the quorum of the 
Twelve Apostles (25). I wrote one thousand and forty Letters (1,040). Recieved six hundred & 
ninety nine letters (699). 

I Collected for the building of the Temples of the Lord in kirtland & Nauvoo one thousand six 
hundred seventy four dollars ($1,674) Also five thousand dollars for Assisting in the printing of 
the works of the Latter Day Saints ($5,000). 

I Procured two hundred & five subscribers for the periodicals published by the Saints (205). I 
printed the Times and seasons And Neighbor in co with Elder Taylor two years. I printed twenty 
five hundred copies of the Millennial Star at Liverpool (2,500) And Published three thousand 
copies of the Book of Doctrins & Covenants (3,000) And secured the copy wright at Stationeres 
Hall London. I printed three thousand Hymn Books (3,000) and twenty thousand of the 
Proclamation called the proclamation of the Twelve Apostles (20,000). 

During the Above period I was ordained to the office of Teacher, Priest, Elder member of the 
second quorum of Seventies the first quorum of seventies And One of the Twelve Apostles 
Recieved my Anointing sealing & endowments from under the Hands of the Apostles Brigham 
Young & Heber C. Kimball by order of Joseph the prophet. 

[ ] 

I assisted the Twelve in ordaining about two hundred 200 Elders & seventies at one time in 
Nauvoo which was not recorded in my Journal & not named in the above number. 

{========================= 

Wilford Woodruffs Journal for 1847 

* 

January 


========================= } 

Friday JAN 1st 1847 I spent the day aranging my Journals. I spent the evening with Mrs 
Woodruff and sister Taylor At a feast prepared by Br and sister Smoot. I administered to 2 that 


Page7 1 




were sick. 


2d I spent the day at home. Father Woodruff was sick. 

3d Sunday I preached At Br Vancotts House to that ward. I laid hands upon one sick person and 
blessed one child. 

4th I spent the day at home, and evening at Br A. O. Smoot. 

5th I spent this day hailing Hay. I sent 3 bushels of Meal in a large salt sack to Br Mercer in the 
upper Herd. I attended Council with the Twelve in the evening. 

6th The Coldest day we have had this year. In the morning the Thennometer stood 2 degrees 
below zero. I spent the day at home. Attended meeting in the evening And Ordained A. O. Smoot 
A Bishop And then Preached at Sister Taylors. 

7th It was Colder to day than yesterday. It was 8 degrees below Zero. I spent the day at home And 
attended the High Council in the evening. 

Retired to Bed And dreamed I was with the Saints Among the Indians in Peace but suddenly one 
came at me in a hostile manner to kill me. They shot at us but no one Killed And I awoke & it 
was a dream. 

8th It was 20 degrees wanner to day but still vary cold. I run my stove pipe through the roof & 
put some turf upon the House. Br Fowler returned home this evening being gone 20 days. Had 
putty good luck, considering all things. He brought Home 40 gal Honey, 900 lbs pork 40 lb. lard 
20 lbs. Butter one yoke Beef Cattle and sundry other articles. 

9th Mercury fell 10 degrees below Zero. We sold one ox to Br Rockwood at 2 1/2 cts per lb. His 
real wait was 893 lb Amounting to $22.32 1/2. During the evening I took a walk with Elders 
Young Kimball H Stout & others. Conversed upon a variety of subjects. 

I went to bed, fell asleep, And dreamed some Indians came into my house with Axes with the 
intent to kill me. I got away from them went into the street And there two men one an Indian 
Stabed me with Knives in the side. I Hollowed murder and some came to my assistance And I 
awoke. These dreams mean sum thing. Some person or persons are plotting against my life And I 
am warned against the plots of my enemies. 

10th Sunday I met the Saints in our ward. O. Pratt addressed them with an interesting discourse 
and I followed. We had a good meeting. I again attended meeting in the evening And preached to 
the people and had the spirit of God. Several of the brethren spoke. I spoke some upon the 
resurrection. 

1 1th I met in Council with the Twelve at Br Bensons and spent the day. We had a good time. We 
spoke upon the principle of our lives being threatend by our enemies & prayed that we might 
ever be deliverd from there hands. 


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12th I spent the day butchering a fat ox. We met in council with the Twelve. 

13th I Cut up Beef and pork to day. Attended to the duties of the family. I attended a meeting in 
the evening at Br Ensigns. 

14th I attended a Council of the Twelve at Elder Kimballs. j_ \ We had an interesting meeting. 

A Revelation was given concerning the organization of the camp of Israel which will be written 
on another page of this journal. 

15th I met in Council with the Twelve at Br Bensons And conversed about the organizing of the 
Camp of Israel. The time has now come when the Camp of Israel must be organized according to 
the order and law of God for there peace, safety, and salvation. 

There are many things of Interest transpire in the Councils of the Twelve Apostles which I do not 
write in this Journal As Elder Willard Richards is presant at the Councils And is the recorder 
And Historian of the Church And writes all these things which will appear in the general Church 
History. 

There was A severe snow storm this day. At night I went into the Council House with President 
Young & several Bishops And made doors and plastered up the House And worked untill near 
midnight. 

16th A Cold day yet the sun shines pleasent. I drew two loads of Hay And went into Council at 
night with the Twelve and the Presidents of the seventies And we had much interesting teaching 
from President Young. The revelation And word of the Lord recieved on the 14th was this day 
presented before the High Council and accepted. It was presented to night before presidents of 
the seventies And accepted by them. 

The question was asked president Young if the quorums of seventies should not be fdled up. He 
said not while there was men enough belonging to the quorum in good Standing alive on the 
earth their places should not be filled by others. 

While treating upon the principle of Adoption He said some men were afraid they would loose 
some glory if they were sealed to one of the Twelve And did not stand alone And have others 
sealed to them. President Young said there kingdom consisted of their own posterity And it did 
not diminish that at all by being sealed to one of the Twelve but ownly bound them by that 
perfect Chain according to the law of God and order of Heaven that will bind the righteous from 
Adam to the last Saint And Adam will claim us all as members of his kingdom we deing his 
Children. 

He gave some interesting teaching concerning the rights of men & the dealings of men with there 
wives and children, the raising of posterity, purity, Holiness &c. That if A wise and proper course 
was taken in the begeting and raising of children that they would soon become pure & Holy And 


Page73 




be administered to by Angels &c. And many other things did the Apostle teach. 

17th Sunday A Cold day. I preached to A congregation in Bishops Everetts ward. I Attended 
Council in the Evening with the Twelve, High Council & Bishops And Had an interesting time. 
Two peaces was read from Col Cane published in the Pennsylvania Papers, concerning His stay 
among us. 

18th * Monday The Thermometer stood this day 16 1/2 degrees below 0 zero. I think as cold 
weather As I ever experienced. But As Cold weather As it was In Company with several others I 
dug earth out of the bank And coverd the roof of my house up. 

This was An important day in the History of this Church in one respect. President Brigham 
Young met with his Company or family organization or those who had been adopted unto him or 
were to be, & organized than into A company out of which may grow a people that may yet be 
Called the tribe of Brigham. His teaching to his company was much unto edifycation. 

I Cannot now write but few of the words which He spake. He said no man should come into his 
company to work iniquity. They should break of from all there sins. And they did enter into a 
covenant with uplifted Hands to Heaven with President Young And each other to walk in all the 
ordinances & Commandments of the Lord Our God. President Young said that He new that any 
man who would put his money to usury in the cause of God would recieve an hundred fold. And 
many things of Interest was spoken. President Young company numbered about 300 men. 

19th {<The company of Wilford Woodruff was organized this day.>} 

President Heber C Kimball organized His family company this night At the Council House 
consisting of about 200 persons. 

I Wilford Woodruff organized my family company this night At my own House consisting of 40 
Men mostly Head men of families. Those that Joined me entered in a covenant with uplifted 
Hands to Heaven to keep all the commandments & Statutes of the Lord our God And to sustain 
me in my office. 

The following are the names of those who were present with me in this organization: Wilford 
Woodruff, Aphek Woodruff, John Fowler, Abraham O Smoot, William C. A. Smoot, John 
Grierson, Chancy W. Porter, John Benbow, Simeon Blanchard, Jacob Burnham, Little John Utley 
Samuel Tumbow Elijah F. Sheets, Jacob F Secrist, Benjamin Abet, Andrew J Allen, Ezra Clark, 
Edward Stevenson, Zerah Pulsi-pher, John M Wolley, Albert Dewey Wm. Stewart, Thomas 
Clark, Hezekiah Peck, being 24 persons in all that were present. The remainder were Absent on 
business. We dismissed and parted in good spirits & feelings. I went to bed and fell asleep And 
dreamed {that I was <[-] with child and> ready to <be delivered> which was a singular dream. 

Jan 20th I met in Council with the Twelve at Br Kimball's. A part of the time was spent in 
Appointing officers in the organization of Presidents Youngs Company. 


Page74 




Towards evening Br Harrison Burgess Arived from Nauvoo with the Mail And all other business 
was laid aside to search for news. We recieved several Bundles of news papers from nearly all 
parts of the U.S.A. & many letters from friends Abroad And 3 Nos of the Stars from Liverpool 
Edited by Elder O. Hyde And we had quite A treat. 

21st I spent this day in Council with the Twelve And searching out the news of the day. I 
attended the High Council in the evening with the Twelve & Bishops But was quite unwell with 
cold and sore throat. 


The following is A true copy of A Revelation given dated Winter quarters Camp of Israel Jan 
14th 1847: 


The word and will of the Lord concerning the camp of Israel In their journeyings to the west. 

Let all the people of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter day Saints, and those who journey with 
them, be organized into Companies with a covenant and promise to keep all the commandments 
and Statutes of the Lord our God: Let the companies be organized with Captains of Hundreds, 
Captains of Fifties, and captains of Tens with A President & his two councillors at their head, 
under the direction of the Twelve Apostles. And this shall be our Covenant that we will walk in 
all the ordinances of the Lord. 

Let each Company provide themselves with all the Teams, waggons provisions, Clothing, and 
other necessaries for the journey that they can. When the companies are organized let them go to 
with their might to prepare for those who are to tarry. 

Let each Company with their Captains, And Presidents, decide how many Can go next spring; 
then Choose out a sufficient number of able bodied and expert men, to take teams, Seeds, and 
Farming utensils, to go as Pioneers, to prepare for puting in spring crops. 

Let each company bear an equal proportion, according to the dividend of their property, in taking 
the poor, the widows, the Fatherless, and the families of those who have gone into the Anney, 
that the Cries of the widow and the Fatherless come not up into the ears of the Lord against this 
people. 

Let each company prepare houses, and fields for raising grain, for those who are to remain behind 
this season. And this is the will of the Lord concerning his people; Let every man use all his 
influence and property &c to remove this people to the place whare the Lord shall locate a stake 
of Zion; And if ye do this with a pure heart in all faithfulness, ye shall be blessed. You shall be 
blessed in your flocks, and in your herds, and in your fields, and in your houses, and in your 
families. 


Page75 




Let my servents Ezra T. Benson and Erastus Snow organize a Company, and let my servants 
Orson Pratt and Wilford Woodruff organize A Company: Also let my Servants Amass Lyman 
and George A. Smith organize a company and Appoint Presidents and Captains of hundreds and 
of fifties and of tens; And let my servants that have been Appointed go and teach this my will to 
the Saints that they may be ready to go to a land of peace. 

Go thy way and do as I have told you; and fear not thine enemies for they shall not have power to 
stop my work. Zion shall be redeemed in mine own due time, and if any man shall seek to build 
up himself and seeketh not my council he shall have no power, and his folley shall be made 
manifest. Seek ye and keep all your pledges one with another and covet not that which is thy 
brothers. 

Keep yourselves from evil to take not the name of thy God in vane, for I am the Lord your God 
even the God of your Fathers, the God of Abraham and of Isaac and of Jacob. I am he who led 
the children of Israel out of the Land of Egypt and my arm is streched out in the last days to save 
my people Israel. 

Cease to contend one with another. Cease to speak evil one of another. Cease drunkenness, and 
let your words tend to edefying one another. If thou borrowest of they neighbor, thou shalt restore 
that which thou hast borrowed. And if thou Canst not repay, then go straitway, and tell thy 
neighbor lest he condemn thee. 

If thou shalt find that which thy neighbor has lost, thou shalt make diligent search, till thou shall 
deliver it to him again. Thou shall be diligent in preserving what thou hast, that thou mayest be a 
wise steward; for it is the free gift of the Lord thy God, and thou art his steward. 

If thou art merry, praise the Lord with singing, with music, with dancing and with a prayer of 
praise and thanksgiving. If thou art sorrowful call on the Lord thy God with supplication, that 
your souls may be Joyful. 

Fear not thine enemies for they are in mine hands and I will do my pleasure with them. My 
people must be tried in all things, that they may be prepared to recieve the glory that I have for 
them, even the glory of Zion. And he that will not bear Chastizment, is not worthy of my 
Kingdom. 

Let him that is ignorant learn wisdom by humbling himself, and Calling upon the Lord his God, 
that his eyes may be opened that he may see, and his ears opened that He may hear, for my spirit 
is sent forth into the world to enlighten the humble And Contrite, and to the condemnation of the 
ungodly. 

Thy brethren have rejected you and your testimony, even the Nation that has driven you out; and 
now Cometh the day of their Calamity, even the days of sorrow like a woman that is taken in 
travel; and their sorrow shall be great, unless they spedily repent! /Yea very spedily./ For they 
killed the prophets, and they that were sent unto them. And they have shed innocent Blood, 


Page76 




which crieth from the ground against them. 


Therefore marvel not at these things, for ye are not yet pure: thou canst not yet bear my glory, But 
thou shalt behold it, if ye are faithful in keeping all my words that I have given you from the days 
of Adam to Abraham; from Abraham to Moses, from Moses to Jesus and the Apostles and from 
Jesus and his Apostles to Joseph Smith, whom I did Call upon by mine Angels, my ministering 
servents and by mine own voice out of the Heavens, to bring forth my work, which foundation he 
did lay, and was faithful and I took him to myself. 

Many have marvelled because of his death, but it was needful that He should seal his testimony 
with his blood, that he might be honored and the wicked might be condemned. 

Have I not deliverd you from your enemies, ownly in that I have left a witness of my name? 

Now, therefore, harken O ye people of my church; and ye Elders, listen together. You have 
recieved my kingdom. Be diligent in keeping all my Commandments, lest judgment come upon 
you, and your faith fail you, and your enemies triumph over you. So no more at present. Amen 
and Amen. 

22d Friday I met in council with the Twelve. 

23d I spent the day at home But attended the Council of the seventies in the evening with the 
Twelve & the quorum of the Twelve with President Young at the Head set for going forth in the 
dance. The persons that took the floor to set the pattern were as follows: Brigham Young Heber 
C. Kimball Wilford Woodruff & Ezra T Benson of the Twelve, & Joseph Young & O. P. 
Rockwood of the Seventies. After we were aranged on the floor President Young Bowed before 
the Lord with his Brethren And dedicated ourselves & the House & the meeting unto the Lord 
which was set as A pattern. We then went forth in the dance And spent a few moments together. 
Had plesant music. We then dismissed & return home. 

24th Sunday I preached in our own ward. Administered to 3 that were sick during the evening I 
Attended the Marriage cerimony under the hands of president Young Between Elijah F. Sheets & 
Margarett Hutchingson. I attended the High Council in the evening & Had an interview with 
Bishop Miller. 

25th I met in Council with the Twelve & it was decided that O Pratt go to Pisgah & Garden 
grove & E. T. Benson go to Punkas to organize the saints And I act as treasurer for Br Pratt while 
He is gone. 

Mrs Woodruff } and myself watched with Sister Sheets 
And I wrote A letter During the time to Br Albert Stratton. 

26th I spent the day at home & night at Br Pulsipher & had a plesent time in conversing about 
times in past days. 


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27th I spent the day at home & in the evening I attended meeting with our ward & Br Taylors 
ward together. Br Phelps Addressed the meeting And I followed him & we had a good time. 

28th {00} This was A vary busy day. I let Br Burgess have my team to go to Hunsakers ferry. I 
Also fitted out Br Luce with two teams to go after corn. I paid him $ 1 1 to buy com with. We had 
a snow Storm during the night. 

After Aranging my business, in company with Mrs Woodruff & Sisters Taylor & Smoot I went to 
the Council House in company with the quorum of the Twelve & Seventies. We spent the day in 
the worship of God by prayer, singing Music & going forth in the dance together before the Lord. 
We were merry and rejoiced before the Lord. 

The High Council met at 6 oclok. At 8 oclok The Twelve with their families again met & went 
forth in the dance untill 2 oclok in the morning & had a good time. <Joseph H[.]rtion who had 
threatened my life was there.> 

29th I was unwell this morning. George Miller Started this morning for Punka. <Joseph H[.]rtion 
is threatening my life> to <day [-] cause. > I spent the day at home. During the evening I met with 
some of the Twelve & with the singers & joined In the singing, music & dancing and we felt to 
praise the Lord in our hearts. 

30th I spent the day at home. 

3 1st Sunday I Preached in the morning to a congregation in our own ward No 14th in the 
afternoon at the Council House to President Youngs ward & others And had liberty of Speech. I 
Attended council in the evening with the High Council & Bishop's. 

I watched with Sister Sheets in the latter part of the night and she died at 30 minutes past 3 
oclock. 


February 

Feb 1st Monday I spent A part of the day at Br Sheets. 

Feb 2d I met in Council with the Twelve at President Youngs. He was quite out of health. We 
recieved a mail to day of many Papers and letters. I attended the {M.T.S.} funeral of Sister 
Sheets. It was A Cold day. 

3d I spent the day at home and evening with Dr Richards, Bishop Smoot, & others & at Sundry 
places. 

4th I spent the day at home. In the evening I called my company together And organized them 
according to the pattern given. I appointed with the voice of the people A. O. Smoot Capt of 100, 
Zera Pulsipher capt of 50 And John Benbow E. F Sheets C. W. Porter John M Wo[.]ley Thomas 
Clark, David Evans Robert C Petty and Andrew J Stewart Captains of Tens. We had a good 


Page78 




meeting. 

I then visited the meeting of the High Council. Herd President Young deliver an address to the 
High Council and Beef Committee. 

Feb 5th Friday This was an interesting day to the Camp of Israel. At an early hour the band of 
music entered my Carriage and rode through the city of winter quarters playing so sweetly that it 
rend the air. 

The quorum of Twelve sat in council the fore part of the day. 

At 2 oclock AM [PM] The silver grays met at the Council House. The company of silver grays 
consisted of all the old men in the Camp of Israel over [4/5?]0 years of age. They were divided 
into 2 companies as the house could not hold them all in one day. 

The quorum of the Twelve met with them at the opening of the meeting. Remarks were made by 
President Young. A Hymn was sung And Prayer by the Patriarch John Smith after which they 
feasted together and then they went forth in the dance praising God in their hearts. It was truly an 
interesting sight to see the old men and women some nearly a hundred years old go forth and 
dance together in fulfillment of the ancient prophets. The quorum of the twelve spent the 
Afternoon and evening with them. Father and Mother Woodruff was among the number. I spent 
the time plesantly. 

6th I spent this day at home. Was quite unwell A part of the evening with Dr Richards reading 
the news of the day. Returned home and spent the night. I got a letter for Father Woodruff from [ 
]. 

7th Sunday I spent the day at home & met in council in the evening with the twelve. 

8th I spent the day aranging affairs about the House. 

9th Br Fowler left for Mo to day. 

10th I spent the Afternoon & evening at the council House in company with Mrs Woodruff at the 
Bishops meeting social recreation &c. 

I I I spent A part of the day with the Twelve in Council. We decided to send up 20 or 30 men to 
Lathrops Herd. 

121 spent the day in assisting the company in making preperations to go to the Herd. 

13 The company for going to the Herd consisted of about 30 men with 3 Baggage waggons. Left 
the city about night for their journey. The object of this Journey was to go to the Herd & visit the 
camp of the Soux Indians and make a demand of them of some 20 Horses which they had stolen 
from our Herdsman. 

14th Sunday I attended meeting in the morning with Elder G. A. Smith at Bishop Hunters ward. 


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Br Smith Preached. I followed. Had a good time. At 1 oclok I met with Bishop Spencers ward & 
preached to them. At early candlelight I met with my own ward at Bishop Smoots & preached to 
them & had a good time. 

15th I met in Council with the President & Council captains of Hundreds, fifties, and tens, to 
further the organization of the Camp of Israel. I recieved an appointment to go to Kegg Creek 
with Br Smoot to organize the people ther. One of the Chiefs of the Otoes was presant this 
morning. In the evening I met with the quorum of the Twelve & others to learn to take the proper 
Steps in dancing. 

16th I have A vary severe Cold & horseness. This was one of the most interesting days of my 
life. I attended the family meeting of President Brigham Young And he addressed the meeting at 
great length during the day and evening upon many interesting principles. There were present of 
the quorum of the Twelve B Young H. C. Kimball O. Pratt W. Richards W. Woodruff G. A. 
Smith A Lyman & E. T. Benson. 

After singing and prayer by President Young He Arose to address the meeting & remarked that 
He Had invited the Twelve to be present though they were not of his family. Yet I wish them to 
act free and speak such things as the Lord shall give them. 

Let me state a principle by which you may contemplate much. For the want of understanding 
many have suffered jealeousies to arise which afflicted their minds with [borrowed?] troubles 
and uneasiness fearing the Lord loved some others more than themselves. This I have seen in the 
Church ever since its rise. It was manifest in kirtland when the first Bishop was ordained this 
jealeous feeling was manifest. Some wondered if the Lord would think enough of them to ordain 
them a Bishop. Father Morley and others that were present can bare record of this fact. And when 
the Twelve were Chosen the same feelings exhisted & in fact I will not except all of them for 
some of them manifested the same feelings when the Bishops were ordained. This spirit has been 
the overthrow of many in this church. And in fact upon this principle thousands have fallen in all 
ages. 

The Lord gives to every man all the power influence and authority that He can wield in 
righteousness and all that his goodness & faithfulness merits. Then why should jealousies arise or 
what benefit can arise by suffering such feelings to exhist? None at all. But those that Cherish 
such feelings commence trying to pull down every one that is prospering or gaining influence as 
Cain did instead of building up & nourishing every promising tree & thereby prove himself 
worthy & show to his brethren & to God that He loves the cause & by his passive spirit that He is 
not ownly willing that others should prosper & gain influence that He actually loves to see them 
prosper for then He does all that he can through himself. He helps advance it through others 
although they recieve the honor of it and he still be aware of it. Such a man will never be 
forgotten and to his honor glory and exhaltation there shall be no end. 

There is another principle that has Caused considerable uneasiness and trouble ie the Idea of 
some mens having more wives than one. Such tremen-dious fears take hold of some that they 


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hardly know how to live. Still they cant die. [They] begin to whisper and talk around [I] Am 
actually afraid to go on a mission for fear some man will be sealed to my wife, & when they 
return home some will be babbing about, you dont know but what you have got another mans 
wife, are afraid to speak to a young woman for fear that she belongs to somebody els or for fear 
somebody els wants her. (Others deny the faith as they think but they never had much) and say 
that it is all of the devil &c. Such foolishnish ought not to be cherished among a wise & prudent 
people. 

Admitting the Lord Created the same number of women as men at the begining and were 
Commanded to multiply & replenish the earth & to fill up the measure of there Creation in 
righteousness; the question is did they do it? Answer No. They soon disobeyed every 
commandment & plunged themselves into wickedness and rendered themselves unworthy to 
raise up seed unto the Lord & in fact used every means in there power to cut of life & hinder 
woman answering the end for which they were created; nine tenth of them would rebel against 
the vary thing he was created to do. Hence you see the propriety of the Lord’s Calling upon men 
who bears the priesthood to take to themselves wives from among the daughters of men & raise 
up a righteous seed unto him that he might fill up the measure of there creation and hasten the 
consumation of his purposes in righteousness in this dispensation according to his words 
previously spoken through his servents the prophets. 

But those who suffer fears & jealousey to aris in there bosoms either back right out or get to be 
mighty Righteous & for fear that they are sleeping with other mens wife they Kick up a dust or 
broil at home & perhaps abuse there own Companion through jealousy then go off to some 
woman that does not understand what is right or wrong & tell her that he has she cannot be 
saved without a man and he has almighty power & can exhalt & save her & likely tell that there 
is no hann for them to sleep together before they are sealed then go to some doe head of an Elder 
& get him to say the ceremony all done without the knowledge of the Authority of this Church. 
This is not right & will not be suffered. The God I serve will reward every man openly without 
his being under the necessity of going secretly & privately palming himself on the credulity of 
innocent ignorant females. 

Such jealeousies do exhist & were I to say to the Elders you now have the liberty to build up your 
kingdoms one half of them would lie, swear, steal, & fight like the vary devil, to get men & 
women sealed to them. They would even try to pass right by me & go to Joseph thinking to get 
between him & the Twelve. Some have already tryed to used an influence against me but such 
jealeouses & selfishness shall be stoped & if the brethren do not stop it I will blow it to the four 
winds by making them all come & be sealed to me & I to my Father & He and all this Church to 
Joseph. 

When I go astray & give wrong council & lead this people astray then is time enough to pull me 
down & then God will remove me as he has done all others who has turned from the faith. 

But to return, I have gatherd a number of families around me by the law of adoption & sealed the 


Page81 




covenant according to the order of Adoption the priesthood and others have done likewise it 
being the means of salvation left to bring us back to God. But had the keys of the priesthood been 
retained & handed down from father to son throughout all generations up to the present time then 
there would have been no necessity of the law of Adoption for we would have all been included 
in the covenant without it & would have been legal heirs instead of being heirs according to 
promise. The pristhood is eternal without the begining of days or end of life as the Apostle has 
expressed it. 

But man through Aposticy which is entire dis-obediance has lost or suffered the keys & 
privileges of the Priesthood to be taken away from them & they [were] left to wander in darkness 
and practice all manner of wickedness untill thousands became the vessals of wrath & were 
doomed to destruction. For as long as men are without the Priesthood they continue to wander 
from God & never retrace their steps untill it is done by the priesthood, & the Idea of the Saints 
being led by fals Prophets is just a notion according to the light in which they view them. All the 
fals prophets we have are men who have turned aside from the truth. 

The man is the head & God of the woman, but let him act like a God in virteous principles & 

God like conversation, walk and deportment & such men will continue to gain influence & 
power and advance in Glory to all eternity. But should they use there power in wickedness as a 
tyrant they soon will be Called to render an account of their stewardship. If not found worthy 
they will be hurled down to perdition & their family & kingdom be given to another that is more 
worthy. Some say that a woman cannot be saved without a man. Neither can a man without a 
woman. 

Br Joseph Said he had taught the Twelve all that he knew concerning the order of the kingdom 
but the difficulty was they Could not remember it as he told them, but when it was necessary they 
would not be at a loss for understanding; & I bear record to the truth of his word before God this 
day that I always had an understanding & evry thing was brought to my mind just as he taught 
them to us. All the ordinances of the Temple & building of the Alter &c came to me Just right 
when they were to be attended to & could we now know Br Hyde, Pratt & Taylor feelings you 
would say that they could read a man through as soon as they Cast there eyes upon him. 

The Apostle Paul while speaking of the Fathers & the Ancients said that they without us could 
not be made perfect. There was a lack in his day & still will be to all eternity untill the Chain of 
that Priesthood is restored & evry spirit take a tabernacle that was fore ordained according to the 
dispensation of the will of God. 

I am entitled to the Keys of the Priesthood according to linage & Blood. So is Brother H. C. 
Kimball & many others [ ] Have taken Kingly power & grades of the Priesthood. This we 

would have taught in the Temple if time had pennitted. Joseph Smith was entitled to the Keys of 
the Priesthood according to Blood. Still He was the fourth son. But when we get another Temple 
built then we will teach you concerning those things. 

Suffice it to say that I will extend the Chain of the Pristhood back through the Apostolic 


Page82 




dispensation to Father Adam just as soon as I can get a temple built. Jesus could have restored 
the order of the Pristhood in his day & brought in the Mil-lenium if the people would have 
harkened to his instructions but they rebelled & would not, & it was for this cause that Jesus told 
them that all the Blood that had Been shed from Righteous Abel down to Zechariah the Prophet 
should be required at there hands. 

I have a request to make of my family & that is that they (esspecially old people) omit calling me 
their Father. Call me Brother Brigham. I shall feel better when you do for I do not consider that I 
am worthy of that Appelation. Father in the Priesthood implies the great head. The term would be 
proper to Father Adam. Jesus had reference to the same thing when He told his deciples not to 
call any man Father on earth for their Father was in heaven. 

The seal of the covenant that I have been speaking off to day was what the Apostle saw previous 
to the destruction of the wicked when the Angel was commanded not to fear pour out the vials of 
wrath on the wicked untill the saints were sealed in their forehead & when this was done they all 
became Father Adams family. 

Those that are Adopted into my family & take me for their Councellor if I Continue faithful I will 
preside over them throughout all Eternity. I will stand at their head, and Joseph will stand at the 
head of this Church & will be there President Prophet & God to the People in this dispensation. 
When we Locate I will settle my family down in the order & teach them there duty. They will 
then have to provide temporal Blessings for me instead of my boarding from 40 to 50 persons as 
I now do. I will administer in spiritual Blessings to them. I expect to live in the House of the Lord 
& recieve & administer ordinances to my Brethren & for the dead all the year round. 

President H C Kimball arose & addressed the meeting some moments. Bore testimony that what 
President Young had said was true & rejoiced to meet with them &c. Br O Pratt also addressd the 
meeting a few moments. Bore testimony to the truth & also rejoiced to meet with them. 

There was then an intermission untill after supper. The table was well furnished & supplyed. 40 
persons could be seated at the Table at a time. The men were seated to the right with there 
companion oposite them commencing with the Twelve President Young at there head. Then in 
order the adopted Children begining with the 1st that was adopted. The Band Choir kept their 
seats, & continued there sweet strains of music while the guest were partaking of the rich 
festival. 

While at the table Brother Thomas Wolsay & John Tippets entered the House. They came direct 
from the Mormon Battlion 280 miles south of Santale on the River Riogrand. On the 10th of Nov 
1846 they Piloted 56 sick men to Fort Purbulo whare Capt Brown esstablishment were Stationed. 
From there came in on Pack mules. Were 50 days on the way. Were taken prisoners twice by the 
Indians. Once was sentenced to death by the Pawnees. Were 30 days without bread & 4 days 
without much of any thing to eat. Brought a package of 137 letters. Brought good account from 
fort Purbulow but rather unfavorable from the Battalion. Their faces were coverd with hair & 
there persons resembled a mountaineer. It was a miracle that the lives of the men were saved 


Page83 




from the Indians & Cold. They were seated to the table in the [guarb?] they arived in. 

Their arival produced no small stir through the Camp. Men & women came in all directions to 
enquire after there friends in the Armey. 

After the men were refreshed we went into Council with them & they rehearsed the situation of 
the Battallion. That they had been on half rations for three weeks when they left them & no 
prospects of more than half rations should they attempt to cross [the] mountains this winter. 
However report reached Sant[a fe after] they arived that the Battalion had taken the Alpasio a 
strong hold between the Riogrand and the Mountains without the iireing of a gun. If this report is 
true the Bat[talion] will have an abundance of suppoort & likely take up winter quarters. 

Many other remarks were made & President Young said that if they had harkened to his Council 
not a man of them would have fallen but would have returned to their friends in perfect safety. 

At 7 oclok we returned to the Council House. Found the Saints rejoicing in what [they] had heard 
through the day. Elder Isaac Morley said that his soul was filled with rejoicing to see the beauty 
& Harmony of the family Connecting links of the Priesthood that had been taught this day: And 
when I look at the family Connexion I cannot but acknowledge him my leader in all things & He 
looking to Joseph the Martered Prophet who has gone to prepare the way for us, and can do more 
for us than He could do if He was here. This Pristhood spoken off is from all Eternity & will lead 
to eternity & will exhalt the Saints to be Gods through faithfulness. 

President Young arose & continued his remarks upon the law of adoption. Granted the Brethren 
the privilege of asking questions when they did not fully comprehend his meaning. The Lord 
introduced the law of adoption for the benefit of the children of men as a school master to bring 
them back into the covenant of the Priesthood. This Principle I am aware is not clearly 
understood by many of the Elders in this Church at the present time as it will Hereafter be: And I 
confess that I have had ownly a smattering of those things but when it is necessary I will attain to 
more knowledge on the subject & consequently will be enabled to teach & practice more and will 
in the mean time glorify God the bountiful giver. 

I have heard Elders say they were not dependant upon any man. I then considerd & do now that it 
was saying more than I can say, for I consider that we are all dependant one upon another for our 
exhalta-tion & that our interest is inseperably connected. (For example) what can my family do 
without me supposing they were to all turn away from me? I hold the Keys over them through 
which they are to receive there exhaltation. Would they not be like sheep without a shepherd & 
would be devoured by the wolves? They Certainly would. Then let us Change the position, & say 
that I would cut off all my family. Then what glory would I have with nobody to rule over but my 
own dear little self? To tell you my feelings I would rather be annihilated than to be in that 
situation. This is another strong proof of the Apostles saying when he declaired that they without 
us could not be made perfect. Neither can you without me nor I without you be made perfect ie if 
we are faithful & without faithfulness there is no perfection on any consideration. 


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This rule applyes to the whole Human family. This is the torment & misery of the disobedient 
spirits that they cannot be made perfect, unless some scheme should hereafter be introduced for 
their redemption. They are now without tabernacles to dwell in ownly such as they have taken 
possession off unlawfully [and] usurped power over, it being a part of their agency that was 
[besjtowed [upon] them which they used to the consumation of there unhappy [-] wretched 
estate, it being the reward & fruits of there doings having been given over to all manner of 
wickedness permitted to afflict the handy work of the Lord untill they fill up the cup of their 
iniquity & the Lord sayeth unto them thou wicked & disobedient spirit thou shalt not have power 
any longer to afflict my people or destroy the works of my hands. You have forefeited your 
agency & wrought thy fulness. Depart Hence to the pit that I have prepared for thee, & this is 
there torment, that their power & agency is taken away. They are left to regret that it was through 
their own disobediance that they Cut the thread of there own salvation, the reflections of which 
ownly serve to torture & increase there torment & that would be the situation of my family 
should they cut themselves off from me. 

I use my family for an example, not that I have the least fears of their ever doing so, for I have 
none. I feel happy this night because we are of one mind. Still should I believe that we were 
perfect & Could not advance any further I should not be Happy but to the honor power & glory of 
the faithful there is no end. 

For your satisfaction I will show you a rule by which you may Comprehend the exhaltation of the 
faithful. I will use myself as A figure, & say that I am ruling over 10 sons or subjects ownly & 
soon each one of them would have 10 men sealed to them & they would be ruler over them & 
that would make me ruler over 10 Presidents or Kings whareas I was ruler over 10 subjects 
ownly or in other words I ruled over one Kingdom but now I rule over 10. Then let each one get 
10 more. Then I would be ruler over 100 Kingdoms & so on continued to all eternity & the more 
honor & glory that I could bestow upon my sons the more it would add to my exhaltations. 

But to clip the thread of your exhaltation then whare would be your glory? It would be like the 
fallen angels or devils that kept not their first esstate but were reserved in everlasting chains of 
darkness unto the judgment of the great day. Others fell from heaven were thrust down to hell; 

But if you wish to advance hold up the hands of your file leader & boast him a head. Should you 
have ten legions of trains following on after you, you should say to your file leader push ahead 
for I am coming with my train boasting him up at the same time instead of trying to pass by him. 
This would stimulate him & he would say come on my boys I will travel as fast as you can & on 
we would go in one solid train to all Eternity. 

Before I close I will answer one question that has been asked me repetedly. Should I have A 
father Dead that has never herd this gospel, would it be required of me to redeem him & have 
him adopted unto some roans family And I be adopted unto my Father? I answer No. If we have 
to attend the ordinances of redemption for our dead relatives we then become their saviors & 
were we to wait to redeem our dead relatives before we Could link the Chain of the Priesthood 


Page85 




we would never accomplish it. 


Many other remarks were made & while addressing the females Said Sisters if you expect to call 
me Br Brigham I want you to be Cleanly. Keep your faces, hands & skin Clean from head to foot 
your Clothes dishes & Houses clean Also your Children & teach them manners, & when you mix 
up Bread dont have a dozen flies in your tray. 

I know that the women generally rule there Husbands & the Children their Mothers. But when A 
woman under takes to rule me I want Her to be so secret about it that I Cannot Catch Her at it. 
Now I do not want the Brethren from my remarks to abuse there wives but treat them kindly: Do 
there Heavy luging but dont wash there dishes as some men do. 

At the close of the remarks there was a little exercise by music & dancing & the meeting was 
disraised. 

17th The family meeting of President Young met again to day But Br Young himself spent an 
exeeding sick day. Was taken in the night & suffered much. Speaches were made in the meeting 
through the day by Br Kimball & others of the Twelve & in the evening Elder W. Richards 
addressed the assembly & was followed by W. Woodruff G. A. Smith & A. Lyman ah of which 
spoke there minds in plainness upon a variety of subjects esspecially the necessity of union At 
the close of the addresses there was some music & dancing. 

1 8th I left winter Quarters in company with Br Smoot to go on a mission to Kegg Creek. Br 
Fowler returned the day before with my team & I took it to go the journey. We rode the first day 
to Council. Point. Br James Ahead was president of the Branch & on our arival we found them 
assembled for a meeting. We attended with them. After it was opened I addressed the meeting. 
Was followed By Br Smoot & others. I [read] the revelation & took a vote on it. I spent the night 
at Br Hiydes. Distance of the day 20. 

19th I travled to day South of Musketoe Creek & spent the night with Br Robert Petty. Distance 
of the day 15 m. 

20th This day witnessed a vary disagreeable & tedious snow storm. I visited the Branch of the 
Church in the place & organized it according to the form or pattern. Br Petty was Capt of 10 
mostly made up in that place. We then drove our teem to Cegg Creek through the snow storm & 
spent the night at Br A. J. Stewarts. Our Horses suffered in the stonn. Distance of the day 12. 

2 1 Sunday I met with the Branch on Cegg Creek & addressed them in much plainness & was 
followed by Elder A. O. Smoot & we rebuked & reproved some fals spirits that was present. We 
organized or took there names for organization & rode back to Br Pet-tys & spent the night. We 
had about 2 feet of snow on a level to travel through. 12. 

22d It was a cold morning yet we returned home to winter Quarters through the snow. 30 mile. I 
spent the evening in the Council House. 


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23 I spent the day in Council with the Twelve. 24th I spent this day writing in my Journal. 


25th I spent this day writing & Held a Council in the evening with the Presidency of the 1st 
Division & Captain of the 5th hundred. 

26th I spent the day in aranging the papers of A. O. Smoot Hundred And in the evening I met in 
Council with the Twelve whare a number of subjects was spoken of. 

And we recieved a visit from A man from New Orleans formally. He professed to be an Indian. 
Most of persons believed him to be a descendant of Ham. Br Hyde Baptized him in Nauvoo. He 
was an eccentric character. He was the most perfect natural musician I ever saw on a flute fife, 
sauce pan, ratler, whistle &c. He was invited into the Council spent a few moments & returned to 
Br Youngs. He married Br Stantons daughter for a wife. He went to Br Bensons to spend the 
night. We want to hear him make some music but he was some disappointed angry & sullen & 
would not make any music. His name was Wm Carey. 

27th I called upon Br Young & soon the fluiter Br Carey came in & felt much Better than last 
night & made the most music on several instruments of any man I ever herd. Afterwards I met in 
Council with the 1st division Captains of Hundreds & 50s & much business was done. In the 
evening I met with my company of there captains & had an excellent meeting. I had the spirit of 
the Lord resting upon me & I addressed the captains upon principle & their duty & had a good 
time. I spent A part of the evening with Sister Sheen & her family & herd much teaching from 
Elder Kimball which was interesting. 

28th Sunday I met with our ward & held a meeting with the Saints. I spent the evening with the 
Saints & writing letters. 


March 

March 1st 1847 This is my Birthday. I am 40 years old this day. 

} } } I wrote 5 letters this day sent by J. M. Grant to New York to the following Persons: Ezra 
Cartersen Ilus F Carter, Freedom Moulton, Sarah B Foss & Br Enion of Rock Ferry & Joseph [.] 
Stratton of St Louis & one to Br Cotton of St Joseph making 7 letters in all. I recieved one letter 
from Br Cottain containing $1.1 sold 10 bushels of corn for 40 cts. 

2d I spent the day at Home. 

3d & 4th I spent the most of the time preparing things for my Journey. 

[5]th I met in council with the first division. Speaches were made by several of the Brethren 
concerning our location here our Journey westward. President Young said he should go as he was 
directed by the Lord &c &c. Requested the saints to be ready to start on the 15. 

[5] & 6th Was spent in council & labour. 


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7th Sunday I met with the Saints in our ward. Bishop Smoot addressed the people concerning the 
[ ]. I followed him And requested the people that had means to carry sumthing to the Bishop 

to [for ] the poor to carry flour meal meat coffee shugar &c & I promised I would do the same. 
We dismissed the meeting & I called in to hear Br Kimball speak A few moments. 

I then went home & carried the Bishop 30 lbs flour half bushel meal 4 lbs shugar 2 lb coffee & 
others took him some things. Br Smoot & myself took some of the things brought in & went to 
visit the sick. We called upon Br Bundy & Sister Cox both of which were sick. Also Job Smith. 
We anointed them with oil lade hands upon them & prayed for them & left them some 
provisions. I then visited Sister Harris & administered to Her with Br Phelps. I spent the night at 
Br Smoots untill bed time. 

8th I met in council with the first division. 

9th I met in council with the Twelve & spent the day together. While in council Br McCray & 
Lumero Arived from Nauvoo. Br McCray had been in prision & many of the Brethren were 
imprisioned & others Hung untill they were nearly dead. This was done by the mob. I spent the 
evening at Br Smoots & read a portion of my Journal. 

10th I spent the day at home & met in council with the Twelve at night. 

1 1th I met in Council with the Twelve & assisted Br Richards to eat a Potatoe Pie. 

12th I spent the day in preparing my carriage to go in the pioneer company. In the evening I met 
at the Council House with the Twelve & others & went forth in the dance. 

13th I spent the day in Council with the Twelve & captains of Hundreds for adopting measures 
for the government of the people after we have left. 

14th Sunday I met with our ward & spoke to the people & was followed by Elders Pulsipher 
Clapp & Smoot. I called upon Br G. A. Smith. Several of his family was quite sick & in a few 
moments after we left his mother in law sister Bigler Died. 

In the evening I met in council with the Twelve & High Council. President Young Preached loud 
to the High Council after giving a decision upon the head of Bishop John Murdock. He prayed 
that God would let him live to see the day when the High Council would pass a righteous 
decision & have light & understand things. 

15th Monday night. I met in Council with the Twelve & captains of Hundreds. The meeting was 
addressed by quite a number of elders President Young & others. 

16th Tuesday I spent the day at home preparing to start on my Journey. 

17th I spent the day putting on my carriage 

top. 


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18th I was quite unwell. I spent the day at home but went to the Council House in the evening to 
a musical Consort but was so unwell I had to return home & go to bed. 

19th I spent the day choreing. In the evening I attended a Council of the Twelve & High Council. 
Br Brigham reproved & rebuked in the power of God. 

20th I am some better to day. Are still preparing to go on the Pioneer Journey. I attended the 
funeral of Sister Phebe Traine who died yesterday. There is now much sickness & death in the 
camp. 

21 Sunday The Camp of Israel met in A general meeting on the public square. President Young 
addressed the meeting & spoke upon a variety of subjects. He said while speaking upon the 
spirits that we should prepare our hearts to recieve the spirit of the Lord & we ought to recieve 
any spirit that comes to us into our hearts enough to prove whether it be good or bad. Then we 
should recieve the good & refuse the evil. He reproved the people sharply for their stealing & 
other wickedness for complaining & many things of interest was spoken unto us. 

I met in Council with the Twelve at 4 oclok & spent a little season in speaking upon the celestial 
law of the Kingdom of God & our souls were made glad & we rejoiced before the Lord. We also 
called into Br Bensons & spent a social hour. We then met with the High Council But not much 
business was done. We had a severe snow storm during the night. 

22d It was cold this morning. There was a meeting of the Presidency & Captains of companys & 
resolved to stockade the city of winter quarters & for the Twelve to go foreward to pick out a 
resting place for the Saints. 

In the evening I attended A Council of the Bishops & Twelve. Remarks were made upon a 
variety of subjects. Brother B. Young spoke upon the subject of Patriarchal Blessings & the 
Blessing of Children. Said that any father who held the Priesthood was A Patriarch to his own 
family & when He blessed his children it was a patriarchal Blessing. If a man wrote the Blessing 
of his Children & Could get the Historian to write it it was well enough but the Historian could 
not write all the Children Blessings in the Church. 

23d The Presidency & Bishops met to decide whare the lines of the City should be. I spent the 
day at work & writing. I recieved a letter from Br Ilus Carter. 

24th I spent the day at home. 

25 I spent the day at work. 

26th The Camp of Israel Held A public meeting to day & I attended with the quorum of the 
Twelve. Much instruction & teaching was given. In the evening I met with my company & 
expressed my feelings to them concerning labouring together for the season in raising grain 
taking care of the families of those who went in the Pioner company. The spirit of union 


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prevailed among them. 

After this I met with the quorum of the Twelve And Wm McCary the Coolurd man. Met with 
them & showed his body to the company to see if he had not a rib gone &c. 

27th I Attended the funeral of Sister Burnham & took the famly to the grave. After the return Br 
G A Smith had my team to go to the grave to Bury one of his family. During the evening I took a 
ride out with my family & friends around the City & down the river Bank. I wet my feet & 
returned home. 

28th Sunday A fine day. The Camp met at the public stand & was Addressed in the morning by 
Brs Young, Kimball Pratt & Benson. In the Afternoon we Partook of the Sacraments & was 
Addressed by Brs Woodruff, Smith Lyman, Richards Phelps & B. Young. The first time the 
Sacrament had been administered to the Saints in a general assembly in winter Quarters. We had 
a good time of it. 

In the evening I visited the sick And administered to 5 persons among whom was Br McCaslin & 
Sister Porter both vary sick. I attended the Council in the evening with the High Council & 
twelve & Bishops. I then returned home & spent the night. 

29th I met this morning with the Presidency, captains of Hundreds & Pioneer Company to 
prepare for starting. It was finally agreed that all that were ready start for the Horn to morrow 
morning. It is fine good weather. I made a bed this morning for sowing salit. Two mules were 
hitch to a Blacksmith shop & puled it down the timbers fell upon several at work in the shop. A 
large stick fell upon the head of Br Little John Utley & was a wonder that it had not broke his 
head & neck both. It injured him severely. He was Carried into the House. Several of us laid 
hands upon him & I Prayed with him. 

30th I spent the day at home & I was in Council in the evening. 

3 1st I spent the day writing. I met in the evening in Council with the Presidency & Captains of 
Hundreds. Expressed my feelings with many others upon the subject of Blockading this city & 
uniting together in there labour in cultivating the earth. President Young also made some remarks 
upon the same subject. At the close of this Council the quorum of the Twelve met in Council & 
resolved that Br W. W. Phelps go to the east & Procure A printing Press & type & recieved 
recommendations to that effect. 


April 


Aprail 1st 0 1 set for A Portrait to be taken 

by Major [ ] to be put in a work with others ofthe Twelve. In the Afternoon I met in council 

with the Twelve. Elder J. A. Stratton was present. Had just arived from St Louis. Gave an 
account of his procedings there which was satisfactory. We herd all the names read in the St 
Louis Branch. We recieved A mail of papers containing the war News &c which we read with 


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interest. We had a Council in the evening. 

2d A portion of the pioneers Commenced removing the out House into a line in the City. I spent 
a part of the day at the office reading the News & A part of the day in Journal writing. I also 
wrote an Epistle to My family & the captains of my Company giving an account of my affairs 
which I leave behind. 

3d It was A busy day with me preparing to start on the Journey. We are now about to start on the 
pioneer Journey to go to the mountains of Israel to find a location as a resting place for the saints 
while the Judgments of God are poured out upon the earth & the burthen & cares of the churches 
& my family rest with great wait upon my mind. I have never felt more wait upon my mind at 
any time while leaving my family to go on a mission than now. My Prayer to God is that He will 
sustain myself & family to meet again on the earth as he hath done in the many mishions I have 
taken on the earth in the vineyard of the Lord. I assisted Br Richards in the evening to pack up his 
waggon. 

4th Sunday I went to the river in the morning & Baptized 3 persons members of Br Deweys 
family. I also confirmed them. I did not attend meeting in the morning But attended in the 
afternoon. Br Young addressed the meeting also Lorenzo Young & A Lymy. Good instructions 
were given. I spent the evening picking up things for starting. 

5th A Hard rainy morning. We were intending to start this morning but shall not in consequence 
of the rain. 

6th April 1847 We met in Public Conference this morning in winter quarters. Not much business 
was done. The sun shone bright, the Heavens smiled upon us. Our hearts were made glad. 
President Young spoke to the people good doctrin. The conference voted to sustain the quorum 
of the Twelve in their place, the Presidents of the seventies the Bishops &c. 

I spent the afternoon in preparing to start As I expect it will be the last day I shall spend at home 
for the present. 

7th I took my leave of my family & friends. Started with my company of Pioneer waggons 8 in 
all & left winter quarters for the Journey. When we were on the top of the ridge west of the city I 
took a view of the Place & looked at my wife & children through my glass. I then led the 
company to the old camp ground from thence on the Ponkan road about 7 miles & camped for 
the night about 10 miles from winter quarters. We had excellent stables for our Horses in a valley 
near a small stream of water. We had not been camped long before Br Pratt & his Company 
arived & vary soon President Young & his Company. So we all Camped to gether about 25 
wag-gons. It was A vary windy night. 10 m. 

8th In the morning we arose & took Breakfast. A squirrel was killed it being the first game killed 
in the camp of the Pioneers. I moved that as it was the first fruits of the game that it be offered to 
the Priest. It was presented to President Young for his Breakfast. 


Page9 1 




President Young in company with Father Morley & others went to the old [camp ground] to pick 
them out a place for A farm. 

I with several others spent the day Hunting & Caught nothing but weary limbs & wet feet. We 
saw 7 or 8 deer & geese ducks cranes &c but could not get any. As I returned in the evening I 
understood that P P Pratt Had arived in winter quarters from his mission in England & that 
President Young O Pratt & others had gone back to the city to see him. Distance of the day 12 m. 

9th I mounted my horse in the morning & started back to winter quarters to see Br Parley the 
Twelve My family &c. Mrs Woodruff was at our camp yesterday while I was out Hunting & left 
a letter for me In answer to one I wrote her the day before. Before I got to the city I met the 
Twelve. I was within half a mile of home yet I turned about with them & came on to the Camp 
Harnesed up our Horses & drove untill dark towards the Horn & camped for the night. Distance 
10 m. 

Br Young & Kimball camped several miles behind US. 

10th We started early in the morning & drove to the hom & crossed it with all our teams on rafts 
before sun set. It is about 12 rods across the stream whare we rafted. It is in sight of the Plat. 
Distance of the day 25 miles. 

1 1th Sunday We crossed over about 20 waggons in the morning & then President Young & 
Kimball arived with there companies & we continued to cross them untill they were over. There 
was one brother quite sick in the night. Br Benson & myself lade hands upon him & prayed with 
him & he recoverd. We moved down our encampment 2 miles & spent the night. 

12th The encampment moved up the platt 14 miles. The quorum of the Twelve & others crossed 
the Horn & returned to the City of Winter quarters on the Missouri River. 4 of us followed an 
Indian trail & cut off about 15 miles. It was about 20 miles the way we went & 35 the way the 
waggons went. I again met with my family & spent the night. Distance of the day 20 miles. 

I attended a meeting in the evening with my company. The Twelve held a council but I was not 
present. 

13th I was vary busy this day. I painted one waggon to take away to sell. I got another Horse to 
take with me on the Journey. 

I was in council with the quorum of the Twelve untill midnight. Elder John Taylor was with us. 
He arived in the city in the evening on his returned from England. We were all glad to meet with 
him once more. He Brought the following instruments for our use on this pioneer Journey: two 
sextons two Byrometers, two artificial Horison one circle of Reflection one telescope [ ] all of 

which were exhibited to us in the evening & Boxed up so that we could take them along. 

I spent the remainder of the night at home the last night I shall spend at winter quarters for a long 


Page92 




time. 


14th After getting all things in Readiness to leave I called my family to gether & Blessed my wife 
& childrens And left them in the hands of the Lord. I bid farewell to father Woodruff & family 
and all around me & took my leave of winter quarters & in company with Elders O Pratt, Lyman 
G. A Smith E Snow & others we again took the indian trail & rode through the prairie to the Elk 
Horn & went over on a raft & camped two miles below the ferry, & we had a splendid supper 
composed of fried Cat fish pork beans, short Cake, Honey Comb, coffee, milk &c &c. We all eat 
vary Harty. Had prayers & retired to bed. 25 miles. 

15th Professor Pratt took an observation this morning for the correct time. We had a good 
Breakfast. Soon Brs Young Kimball Henson, Whitney & many others Came & crossed the ferry 
& we all moved up to the general Camp on the Platt River. 9 miles. 

We found the Camp vary busy in Blacksmith work & getting ready to continue the Journey. We 
spent the night at this place. During the evening Br Little arived from the eastern states in our 
midst. When He arived at winter quarters finding we had left He followed us post haste leaving 
all things behind him. He overtook us this evening. He gave us news of the eastern churches. 
Spoke of many friends Among wholm was our friend Col Kane who had remembered the 
Quorum of the Twelve & others by forwarding A variety of Presents to us. He forwarded to me A 
Patent Life Preserver & Stop Compass. Br Little spent the night in camp. 

16th Brother Little, P. Rockwell & J Reading returned to winter quarters. The camp continued up 
the Platt 4 miles & camped & turned their Horses upon an Island of cottonwood & Rushess. The 
wind Blew exceding hard during the night. 

Before we left this morning the Camp came to gether And was organized for Journeying as a 
military body into tens [5?]0 & 100s. Col Markham & A. P Rockwood was appointed Captains 
over A Hundred & 4 Captains of fifties & Captains of tens. I was Appointed Capt of ten. The 
following are the names of the persons belonging to my ten: W. Woodruff J. S Fowler J. 
Bornham, O. Pratt, Joseph Egbert, John M. Freeman, Marcus B. Thorp G. A. Smith, George 
Wardle, Being 9 in all. The camp consisted of 73 waggons & 143 men 3 women & 2 children 
making 148 souls in all. 

17th We travled 8 miles & camped in the edge of a grove of cottonwoods to spend the sabbath. 

In the Afternoon the organization of the camp was finished in the following order: B Young 
Lieutenant General, Stephen Markham Colonel, John Pack 1st Major, Fredrick Rounday 2d 
Major. 

The Rigment be divided into tens under the following Captains: 

Wilford Woodruff Capt of 1st company 

Ezra T. Benson 2d " 

Phineas H Young 3d " 


Page93 




Luke Johnson 4th 

Stephen H Godard 5th 

Charles Shumway 6th 

James Case 7 

Seth Taph 8 

Howard Egan 9 

Appleton Harmon 10 

John Higby 1 1 

Norton Jacobs 12 

John Brown 13 

Joseph Matthews 14 


Orders from Gen Young was for the whole regment to Journey in a copacked body as we were in 
an indian country for evry man to carry his gun loaded for the cap locks to be shut onto a peace 
of Buck skin with caps Handy to slip on in an instant in case of an artacted, for flint locks with 
Cotton or tow in the pan & A powder flash handy to prime quick. The object of this caution is to 
prevent accident. And for every man to walk beside his wag-gon & not leave it except He is sent 
away. Strict rules & disipline are necessary while travling through A Hostile indian Country. 

Some traiders came down from the Pawness & camped with us over night. They had a plenty of 
Buffaloo meat dried & gave us what we wished. They informed us we were within two days 
drive of the whole dody of the pawnees. We camped here in a line for the sabbath. 

} 18th Sunday I wrote A letter Home to Mrs Woodruff By Br Eames who wishes to return back. I 
perused several papers to day, but did not find much news. Br O Pratt took an observation of his 
Barometer. 

President Young called the captains together & gave them instruction to travel in the morning 
two abrest & let all who were not driving teams carry their guns & walk by the side of the 
waggons. Let no man go away hunting to get [out] of sight of the camp. The Bugle was to be 
blown at half past 8 oclok at night when all was to go to prayers in their several waggons & retire 
to bed by 9 oclok. The Bugle will Blow at 5 oclok in the morning to arise & pray & two hours 
will be allotted the camp to dress pray cook eat feed Horses Harness &c & start at the blow of the 
Bugle at 7 oclok. This is the order of the camp. 

Travellers have frequeently spoken of the Platt River. In relation to it I will [say] It is the most 
singular river I ever beheld. It is from a quarter to half a mile wide & its shores & bed one 
universal body of quick sand. It is a rapid stream yet many places A person can wade across it. 
Frequently nearly the whole bed of the river is coverd with but few inches of water & at other 
places it is deep & Rapid. Notwithstanding it is quick sand Horses & cattle can walk down to 
edge of the river & drink like walking on the edge of a smooth sea Beach & some times while 
walking on the apparent hard beach or bed of the river A man or Horse will suddenly sink into 
the quick sand & the more he struggles to get out the more He will sink & will soon perish if 


Page94 




assistance is not near. Many Horses & men have been lost in this way on the Platt. Whare we 
have spent the Sabbath A man could nearly wade across the river. 

We do not travel on Sunday but pitch our tents Saturday night or encamp in the waggons & we 
do not move untill Monday morning. This is the order of the camp. 

19th It was quite cool in the morning. The Bugle Blew at 5 for prayers & 7 for starting. We 
travled two abrest. Men walked by the side of their wagons. We bore a northerly direction untill 
about noon when we reached the north Bend of the Platt. Professor Pratt took an observation & 
found it to be in Lat. 41.27.5. The crossing place of the Horn was in Lat. 41.16.24 making the 
North Bend of the Platt 10 1/2 miles north of the ford. 

We formed into a circle at noon & bated. While nooning Elder Little arived with P Rockwell & 
two others. They brought the mail. I recieved two Letters one from L Hardy of Mass who 
informed me that Milton Holmes father & Mother was cut off from the Church & He with them 
turned Strangites And that Aphia his wife was a great apostate. O Milton Holmes how hast thou 
fallen. The other letter was from Mrs Woodruff which I read with interest. 

Br Little brought many things that the Colonel Kane sent as presents to the 12 & others. I 
re-cieved A stop Box Marriners compass small enough to carry in the pocket. It was A splendid 
present. May the blessings of God be upon the head of Col Kane for his good feelings towards 
the servants of God. 

We camped at night near a grove of timber on the bank of the Platt. We fonned a circle from 
edge to edge of the bank of the river. The river on one side was our defence. We drove the 
tongues of our waggons out ward & fore wheel of each waggon was placed against the hind 
wheel of the waggon before it and all the Horses & cattle taken inside the Circle so that we were 
secure against the Indians. 

The river was about one mile wide whare we camped & on the north side joining by our 
encampment. It was deep & rapid. The face of the country during to days travel was on the south 
side of the river. High Bluffs tuning precepitately to the river on the north side which we travled. 
A level prairie without any bluffs about 2 miles from the river a rise of table land about 10 feet & 
continues at a level. No timber except patches on the river. Soil sandy. 22 m. 

20th A Hard wind through the night. This morning fair but strong SW wind. It covers our 
wag-gons with sand & dust while Journeying. The soil is universally sandy on the banks of the 
Platt. The grass is now about 4 inch high scattering not half feed. Their are many water fowls 
about the Platt such as ducks geese Brant but the most numerous of all are the sand Hill Cranes 
which flye in large flocks on evry side of us. 

25 minutes past 7 we started on our Journey. 2 1/4 miles came to another grove of small & large 
cottonwoods covering about 40 acres. It was about 5 miles to the table land which was now 
rising into a bluff. Here the road runs 20 degrees south of west bending to S by W. one mile in 


Page95 




which distance we passed 3 Islands in the Platt coverd with timber the largest about 10 acres. 
Their continues a chain of Islands for miles on the river & some timber on the south side of the 
Platt. 

We came to skull creek B miles from our encampment. 1 1/2 miles to the right of skull creek is A 
prairie dog village covering about 6 acres of ground. This creek is timbered ownly by a few 
scattering willows. The river runs about parallel with the river [sic]. Its general Barings are about 
east & west. After crossing the skull Creek bridge the road runs about SW by W 60 degres west 
of south for about 15 miles. The Platt is skirted with timber. 

Professer Pratt & myself went forward of the Company to take observation. We traveld about 13 
miles & stoped bated Horses took observations &c. While on the road we frequently see gopher 
Hills from one to 6 feet in circumference diamiter & from 3 inch to 2 feet in highth some 
resembling a potatoe patch which makes it rough waggoning over them. With the exception of 
this it is the best road on the North side of the Platt river I ever travled being a level dry hard 
road. Our Standard Thermometer stood to day at 1 oclok 94°. 

The company approached us & we continued on 5 mile & the whole encampment came up & we 
encamped for the night in a circle. Cut down Cotton wood trees to feeds the Horses on the bark. 
They will knaw off the bark from brouse limbs & sticks 10 inches through as readily as they 
would eat com. We have had to feed upon cotton wood all the way thus far. We give each Horse 
also about 3 quarts of corn per day. 

Our fisherman drew a net this afternoon & broat into camp 213 fish Buffalo & Carp which was 
divided in the camp. We had A Buffalo would weigh 10 lbs & carp 2 lbs & had a good supper. 
The Platt was a mile wide whare we camped including an Island opposite of us with timber. The 
distance of the day 18 miles. 

21st Cloudy with a light sprinkle of rain. Wind in the east. Our road runs west to begin with. The 
ox teams started at 7 oclok the Horse teams at 8. 5 minutes to 9 An Indian appeared on a mound 
mounted on a poney about 5 miles from us. He went out of sight & again appered. He then 
approached the camp full speed. Was met by the brethren & shook hands. Was soon followed by 
others. Were 8 in all. They went through the encampment & then returned with us. The road runs 
20 degrees South of west 7 miles then turned 10 degrees North of west. 

At half past 12 we came in sight of 70 Indian Horses & Mules. Soon we came in sight of a large 
Pawnee Indian village on the north side of the loup fork & also a large one on the south side of it. 
We drove on by the villages & they soon began to sally out to Come to us. We camped in a half 
moon the bank of the river fonning A parallel line in front. 

The indians to the number of about 200 on the south side of the river came down to the shore. 
Some waided over. About 75 came into camp including the grand Chief of the Nation with many 
war Chiefs. We met them before we left the ground & made them presents of about 4 lbs of 
tobacco 15 lbs lead powder fish Hooks heads flour salt &c. But still they were not satisfied 


Page96 




considering our Numbers they thought they ought to have had more & when we left the ground 
they appeared vary dissatisfied. We however Harnessed up our teams & drove on to looking 
glass Creek & Camped at its mouth for the night upon the bank of the loop fork. 

After our Horses were turned out we were Called to gather & in Consequence of the 
dissatisfaction of the Indians A guard of 100 men was Called for. The quorum of the Twelve 
with nearly the whole camp volunteered to stand guard one half the fore part of the night & the 
other the latter part. We had A picket guard also of 4 men & mules at a time. I with my mule was 
on picket guard. We had hard wind & rain in the Afternoon which continued A part of the time 
while I was on guard. I rolled myself up in my buffalo & let the wind & rain beat onto me. We 
were releaved at about 1 oclok & went to rest. But no Indians appeared during the night. 

22 We crossed the looking glass 15 minutes to 9 & then continued a westerly course. There were 
A good many auter on the looking glass. We arived at Beaver Creek at 12 oclok. There are some 
Beaver on this creek about one mile above its mouth. 

Professor Pratt took the meridian observation of the sun by the sextant for the Lat which was 
found to be 41°25T5". Also found the magnatic needle to vary about 12 degrees east, And found 
the Barometer at half past 12 = 28.71 1, the attached Thermometer standing at 68° And the 
detached thermometer at 67° & Also took an observtion of the sun for the true time in the 
morning. It is 10 miles between the two creeks which we travled this forenoon. 

We Crossed Beaver Creek at half past 2 oclok. The road runs about south west. The water was 
about to the deds of our waggons. It was a rough steep bank to come out of. About 12 men 
hitched a hook & roap to the tongue of each waggon & puled them up. Beaver Creek is lined 
with scattering timber cotton wood & willows. 

We travled 7 miles & came to the Pawnee Mish-ionary station & camped for the night. The Bluff 
was skirted with some Oaks on the North side of the road in the Hills. We kept a guard through 
the night as we were in danger of the Sioux on one side, and the Pawnees on the other. 

President Young addressed the Camp & told them when they left in the morning not to take away 
any thing ownly what they brought with them unless it was sold them by Brother Case who had 
had charge of the Station for a long time & the goverment was owing him a good deal & if He 
felt disposed to sell any thing that He had in his possession & report to Goverment He could do 
so. 

During the evening Professer Pratt made some observation. At 15 m past 7 oclok the Barometer 
stood at 28.7 inches attached Thermometer 64° detached Thermometer 60°- North wind & fair. 
Also at 8 oclok 52 m found the double altitude of the pole star to be 80 o 25’15" from which the 
lattitude was deduced [viz?] [ ]. O. Pratt Also took the angular distance of sun & moon for the 

Longitude at Beaver Creek ford also the altitude of the moon for the true time. 

23d At 6 oclok O Pratt made A Barometrical observation. Mercury standing at 28.697 inch 


Page97 




Attached Thermometer 36° detached thermometer 34°- Vary little wind from west. Fair. Also 
took an altitude of the sun for the time, and also A Meridan Altitude of the Sun for the latitude. 
Found it to be41°25'29". 

While wattering the Horses at a creek at the station last evening Brother G. A. Smiths Horse 
mired & pitched foreward & Jumped onto him trod upon his feet & breast & held him fast in the 
mud untill I caught him by the bit & backed him off. I was fearful He was badly injured but at 
last found that He was but little hurt. 

* This was A day of Adventures to the pioneer Camp. In the morning 12 of us started on 
Horsback to search out a ford across the dangerous difficulty & troublesom loup fork of the Platt 
river. We went down the stream some distance & several men waided across the stream & found 
the water so deep & so much quick sand we concluded to drive Hier up to the old Pawnee 
village. So we returned to the Camp. Harnessed up our Horses. My gray Horse named Titus had 
the belly ake or bots yet I started out with him & the Camp drove up with some little difficulty to 
the old Indian village or a little below it & men commenced searching out a ford & found the 
whole bed of the river one universal dody of quick sand which if a Horse or waggon stoped it 
would begin to sink down. 

We had two channels of water to cross with a sand bar in the middle. The deepest water was 
from 3 to 4 feet deep & vary rapid & about 300 yards strait across. Some places of quick sand 
was found so soft as to sink man or beast instantly in & the more He strugled to get out the more 
He would sink. But we calculated to avoid such places as much as possible. 

As I was forward with my 10 or the first ten it fell to me to make the trial. Professor Pratt having 
a strong pair of Horses went forward and I followed him. I had two yoke of cattle & my horses on 
my Carriage with about 10 hundred on. I immediately saw as soon as I started that the Cattle did 
but little good. Were slow & in the way. We would stop & begin to sink. I Jumped out of my 
carriage into the water up to my waist. About 10 men came to my assistance with a drag roap & 
hitched to the oxen & assisted me in getting across the first stream but with great difficulty. 

I stoped on a sand bar out of water. My Horses & waggon immediately began to sink & by 
treading the ground a little it would become a perfect quagmire. 

But though we were sinking in it the men had to leave the waggon whare it was. For O Pratt in 
trying to cross the second stream had sunk into a bed of quick sand and all men had to go to his 
relief to get his Horses & waggon out. 

The Horses were taken from the waggons the load taken out & carried to shore by hand & the 
waggon drawn out by the help of men. I took off a part of my load or most of it in a boat & went 
through the second stream empty & got out two other waggons done in the same way. But it was 
so tarrific the rest of the camp would not follow suit. 

So their were 6 men of us in all to spend the night to gether without horses & waggons to guard 


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against the whole Pawnee band that were Camped below us on the same side of the river should 
they feel disposed to come upon us. There numbers were not known but it was supposed they 
numbered over 600 warriors. We divided our company which made ownly three of us on guard at 
a time. Br Pack O. Pratt & myself went on guard the fore part of the night Although I had been in 
the water during the afternoon I stood guard in my wet clothing one half the night slept in them 
the other half. 

We had not more than got our position for the night untill we were joined by 5 men who crossed 
the river in a boat. Were sent over by President Young to assist us which made eleven men 
instead of 6 so we divided our force accordingly. The night past off in peace & no disturbance. 
Distance from the Missionary station to the ford 4 miles. 

24th A Plesant morning. Professor Pratt took an observation on the south bank of the fording 
place on the loop fork 4 miles from the Missionary station. Took a meridian observation of the 
sun for the Lattitude. Found to be to 41°22’37". 

The camp now wer busiy in concocking plans to cross the river. They drew together timber & 
rails to build two rafts & began to put it together. But some of the Brethren made another trial to 
cross with waggons by putting in several Hors & mule teame. They went a little Hier up than we 
did & got over with much less difficulty & the more the ground was trod in the water the smother 
& Harder it grew. So the whole encampment turned there waggons back to the ford & abandoned 
the raft & by unloading one half of there baggage could cross in safety & the whole encampment 
came over in that way by doubling teams & going back & forth untill all were over. Each captain 
with his ten assisted each other over, & so in this way all Israel who were present went over (not 
Jordan) but the Loup fork of the Platt river in safety without damage to man or beast. We felt 
thankful in our Hearts to our God for his mercies unto us & that we were on the South side of the 
river. 

We all loaded up our waggons & drove 4 miles & Camped for the Sabbath on the bank of the 
stream. After our waggons were placed the Twelve & took a walk on the High table land to make 
observations with our glasses of the surrounding country. Professor Pratt made a Barometrical 
observation at this place at 15 m past 7. Barometer stood at 28.56 inch Attached Thennometer 
64° detached Thermometer 61°.5. 

25th Sunday A plesant morning. The order of the Camp is that there be no fishing Hunting or 
labour of any kind on Sunday except such as is actually necessary. 

4 Antelope appeared before us on the plain on the opposite side of the river. We could see them 
with the naked eye but far more clearly through our spy glasses. There sides & belly were white 
& backs brown. These were the first Antelope I ever saw. About 10 oclok also 4 Elk appeared on 
the opposite side of the river which we looked at without glasses. These were the first Elk also I 
ever saw. 

The day was mostly spent in resting man & beast untill 4 oclok. The camp gathered together for a 


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meeting & were addressed by a number of the Brethren Among whom was G. A. Smith & B 
Young who spoke upon principle upon Breaking off the yoke from the saints. Some pretended to 
say that the Twelve were oppressing the People. But is it so? No, But if most men that are on the 
earth those in the Church not excepted should rule & lead this Church they would have many 
yokes put upon them that we are all the while trying to take off their shouldiers. Many other good 
things were said. 

The guards were placed out as usual to guard the camp during the evening. 

A company of Hunters were appointed to go fore- ward of the Camp to ketch game. There were 7 
Horseman & 10 footman. The quorum of the Twelve also had the privilege of Joining the 
Hunters when they Pleased. A Meriadian Alt of the sun gave for the Lat 41°20.31. 

26th Early in the morning before the break of day 2 Indians crept upon their Hands & knees 
Approaching the camp to steal some Horses. They got within 3 rods of the guard before they 
were dis-coverd. They first thought them to be wolves & snaped at them. They rose up & ran & 
two of the guard fired at them. 4 others rose up out of the grass making 6 in all. The bugle was 
sounded And all arose up to anns not knowing but there was A large party nearby but we saw no 
more. 

I started out in the morning with the Hunters. We saw 8 deer 4 Antelope but caught nothing. 

We travled 8 miles & camped for noon. On the opposite side of the river we saw through our 
glasses the relicks of an old Indian town. We saw 8 trails leading to it with 6 & 8 abrest each. In 
the afternoon we travled 17 miles & camped on clear creek with a hard gravel bottom the first 
one of the kind we had met with on the road. 

We killed one wild gose & saw fresh Buffalo signs whare we camped. This was the first signs of 
the kind we had seen on the road. 

The travels to day was like a level desert except the dividing ridge between the two rivers. The 
grass was dry & sandy mostly level & nearly without water. We travled to day from 10 to 20 
degrees west of south. 

We camped under a High Bluff in a half moon. Brs Young, Kimball, Richard's, & myself went 
on to a high Bluff to view the country. 

Just at dusk A tremendious alarm was given through the camp that Indians had Cralled up & 
taken Porter Rockwell & his horse & made off with him. Many men mounted there Horses & 
made off after him with all speed but it was soon discoverd that Rockwell was in the camp but 
two Horses were gone. Dr Richards & Br Little & about 20 men mounted & armed went in 
search of the Horses But found them not. It was believed the Indians took off the Horses. 

Distance of the day 15 miles. Lat of this place is 41°17’21". Barometer 28.445 inch Attached 
Ther 85° Detached Ther 87°. S.S.W. wind. Fair. 


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27th O. P. Rockwell & others went again in search of the Horses & were gone all day. We 
continued our Journey [A?] South course to try to get on the platt river. We came on to some 
beautiful green grass & saw a great quantity of Buffalo sign but found no wood or water. Travled 
12 miles & bated our Horses in a green valley. 

Just as we were starting in the Afternoon we rose a small Bluff & saw two Antelope before us in 
the valley. Brs Young Kimball & myself were together. Br Brown & another Brother was on 
another side of the Hill & saw him also. Br Brown first fired upon him. Another man & myself 
fired also. We all Hit him with our Balls but He did not fall. We rode up to him & cut his Throat 
to Bleed him & He run about 10 rods & fell. This was the first Antelope we have Killed. He was 
dressed & put on board of the waggons & we continued on. 

In a short time we saw 3 more at the top of a mound looking at us. Br Brown & myself went after 
them But they went onto the flats & we could not get to them so we left them. Turned about 10 
degrees east of South went to a Creek & camped. Our cattle & Horses were vary dry not finding 
any water through the day. 

We had A Heavy Storm of thunder lightning wind & some little rain which lasted about an hour. 
A rifle went off in Br Brown waggon by accident. The Ball went through a bag of cloths (set it on 
fire through the waggon) & Broke A leg of a fine Horse which broke up one team. 

In the edge of the evening O P Rockwell & the Brethren with him returned & reported that the 
Indians Had stolen the two Horses & they were attacked by 1 5 Indians who were in Ambush in 
the grass. They came upon them determined to take their Horses from them. They kept them off 
by their Rifles & Pistles. The Indians were armed with guns & Bows & when they found they 
could not skare the Brethren they then professed friendship to get to them. But the Brethren were 
resolute & determined not to move but to fight first though ownly 14 to 15 men. 

The Indians finally rushed upon them to ketch the Horses by the bit & the Brethren drew their 
pistols upon them determined to fire & do their best & the Indians seeing their determination 
broke & ran but fired their guns upon the Brethren & the Balls whistled around them but no one 
injured. They did not fire upon the Indians not wishing to kill them if they could Help it. 

Distance of the day 20 m. 16 miles sw from our last stations. About half way between the loop 
fork & Platt rivers. The meridian Alt of the sun gave for the Lat 41°9 26 0 h 30 m. Bar stood at 
28.053. Attached Ther 87°. Detached Ther 88°. S.S.W. wind fair. 

28th * At 6 1/2 A.M. Bar. stood at 27.968 Attached Ther. 59° detached Ther. 60 wind N.N.E. 
Fair. A Plesant morning. 16 miles from the Platt River on Plain Creek. We travled to grand 
Island & camped on its banks for nooning. 

I went out with the Hunters. Caught Nothing but one wolf & a goose. In the Afternoon we travled 
6 miles & camped on Wood Creek. Formed a circle put our Horses inside & had good defense. 
We saw many deer in the afternoon run across on the Island. President Young thought it not 


PagelOl 




prudent to travel up the Island Hunting lest we get into an Indian Ambush. 15 m. 

29th A Cool morning. The camp started at 5 oclok without feeding. Drove 3 miles & stoped & 
Bated & Breakfasted. The Hunters went up the Island. Grand Island is well supplyed with rushes 
& cottonwood; Wood Creek is Heavily wooded for this country. We are begining to get a good 
bide of grass for our Horses & Cattle. 

Professor Pratt at 7 h 30 m AM took a Bar observation on wood creek at our camping place. 
Mercury in the Bar. standing at 27.979 inch Attached Ther 61.5° detached Ther 60.2°S. wind. 
Fair. 

We travled 8 miles & nooned. Travled in the afternoon 10 miles & camped on the Borders of 
grand Island. The Island of this place was thickly coverd with rushes upon which we fed our 
Horses. I went out with the Hunters. We saw about 30 Antelope & 8 deer. The Antelope would 
play around on the large plains & keep out of our way so we should not shoot them. They mostly 
went towards wood creek which we had forded in the morning & left to our right. The ford was 
good. We shot 4 geese. I shot two of them & one deer but did not get the deer. We find places on 
the main land bordering upon grand Island coverd with white substance resembling salt & taste 
quite saltish. We camped for the night. Distance of the day 20 m. 

30th O Pratt took observations on the north Bank of the Platt river 17 miles from the last station 
at 6 1/2 A.M. Of the Barrometer mercury stood at 27.716 Attached Ther. 50° detached Ther. 48° 
S.E. Wind fair. At noon Lat 40°42’37". At 6 1/2 PM 17 miles west of morning station Bar 27.935 
Inch. Alt. Ther 43.5° det Ther 41.5°. North wind. Fair. 

We travled to day 16 miles & camped without wood or water. The wind Blew Hard in the 
evening. The Ther stood at 41°. The grass was short affording but little feed. 16. 

May 

May 1st 1847 * This was an interesting day to the Hunters of the Camp of Israel. It was vary cold 
Ther stood at 30° with strong North wind. The Hunters put out & the camp started on the 
Journey. Before Breakfast [we] travled 6 miles & camped on the Prairie in sight of A Herd of 
Buffalo of 200 feeding on the Bluff to our right. Three ownly of the Hunters started out after 
them. They rode near them & left their Horses & cralled upon them to get a shot but they 
frightend the Herd & they run away. 

A little previous to the main Herds being seen 3 Bulls were discoverd on the Bluff. O. P. 
Rockwell & two others went after them & wounded two but got neither of them. 

We had not travled more than 2 miles before we discoverd Another large Herd of about 200 5 
miles Ahead of us. The Hunters got together held a council & waited untill the Camp all came 
up. We were determined to get some of the Buffalo if possible. 

We travled together untill we were within one mile of the Buffalo. We then made A Halt, & 15 


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Hunters started out. 


Amasa Lyman & myself of the Twelve made two of the Number. We all travled together on to 
the Bluffs within A few rods of them & there divided out into companies. Br Grover & Luke 
Johnson went together into the Bluffs. O. P. Rockwell & Br Brown took the entire left & so we 
divided into companies on the right left & center. 

I was in a company in the centre of the Herd & we all made A Charge upon them from the Bluffs 
& rushed on to the Plain. The Herd ran vary fast down the ruff Bluffs into the plain but when we 
came on to the Plain we soon came on to them each company singled out his game. We made 
choice of Cows generally. Then rushed up by the side of them & fired upon them with our Pistols 
such as Horse Pistols Rifle Pistols &c which are much better to carry than rifles as they are vary 
comberson in runing. 

The first that we gave chase to was A Buffaloo Cow with her Calf. I rode by the side of her & 
fired two Balls from my Pistols into her. The other Brethren with me also fired into her untill we 
killed her. We cut her throat. I then run my Horse to the Assistance of another Party who had 
wounded one. That one was also soon dispatched. 

I then saw O. P. Rockwell had 3 Bulls at bay on the Prairie. Br Pack & myself run our Horses to 
his assistance & Br Kimball came up at the same time. We surrounded them & commenced upon 
them. They bolted ahead. I put spirs to my horse & run in ahead of them. Was in about one rod of 
them they all Pitched at /me/ & gave me chase for fight & I had to be quick to get out of their 
way but soon cleared. 

The two of them Broke for the Bluff. Br Brown Put for them. Rockwell Kimball Pack & myself 
stuck to the old Bull. I fired 2 Balls into him. Br Kimball one, Br Pack one & He fell dead. And 
we cut his throat & also shot a calf that was with him. The two that had left us that Brown was 
after was in the Bluffs more than a mile from us. Br Kimball & myself gave chase to them & as 
we got in about 20 rods of the Bluff we saw two come out & run for the main Herd. We gave 
chase for awhile but they were fresh & my Horse had run near 10 miles in the chase so we gave 
up the Persuit. 

I returned to Br Brown in the Bluffs & found that one of the Bulls He Had given Chase to was 
near dead had lain down. But Br Brown Had no more Powder or Ball But Before I arived He Had 
got up & run into the Herd on the Bluff. So we all returned on our Chase ground to gather up the 
meat we had Killed. In all 3 Cows one Bull & 5 Calves making 1 1 in all. 

Br Solomon Hancock went out in the morning onto the Bluffs to kill Buffalo on foot. He did not 
come in at night. We felt concerned about him. Early in the morning He came in Had Killed a 3 
yer old Cow & watched it over night to keep the wolves from eating it & wolves came upon him. 
He shot one the rest run away. 

This made 12 Buffalo in all that the Hunters Killed to day which we considered was doing vary 


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well considering that we were nearly all strangers to that mode of Hunting. Is but vary few of us 
ever saw a wild Buffalo Before in our lives. We dressed our meat. Waggons came from camp to 
take it in. 

A Part of this Chase was through one of the largest Prairie dog towns nearly ever seen. It was 
nearly ten miles long & 2 wide & full of Burrows nearly evry rod & great danger of a Horse 
steping into them & falling. There was no accident Happend at all to any one which was truly a 
blessing. My Horse stumbled once & came nigh falling but no hann done. This was the first 
Buffalo Hunt I ever took part in or saw. 

We travled to day with the camp. 18 miles. We discoverd Indian fires on the south & west of us. 

2d Sunday All were Busy cooking & saving thare meat. In the Afternoon we moved up 3 miles 
for Better feed & camped by the side of a large slew of water. Our camping place last night & 
this morning was at the Head of grand Island. 

Professor Pratt took an observation for the Lattitude & found it to be 40°4T42". This agrees with 
Freemonts obervation within 2 miles & his was on the south side of the river which was 2 miles 
south of our camping place. 

We came through another large dog town to day. Soon After we camped A herd of Buffalo came 
from the Bluffs to the river to drink within about 2 miles of us & then returned to the Bluffs. 
Some were Anxious to go after them but as it was Sunday Br Young thought it best to let them 
be untill to morrow. 

The Indians set fire to the Prairie before us which burnt rapedly over a large region of country. 
Brs Young Kimball & several others went several miles in the evening on our rout to examine 
the fire & other things. Distance 3 miles. 

3d The Hunters were called together in the morning 20 in number to go into the Bluffs for a still 
Hunt for Bluffs Buffalo & other game. We started out with two waggons to Bring in the game. I 
had taken a severe cold & setled in my side whare I was Hurt last fall & it made me sick & I was 
not able to go out. Yet I started with the company as I was among the Hunters. I Had Jared 
myself badly in my hard Buffalo Chase on Saturday & I now was feeling its effects. 

At the same time the Hunters started Another Company was fonned to go & explore out the rout 
& see if we could get grass for our Horses as the Indians had been Burning it of for several days. 
We went into the Bluffs & separated into two Parties 10 in each & we travled some 10 miles 
Back & forth over the Hills & saw no game except Antelope & wolves. 

* I felt so unwell I concluded to go back to Camp. A Lyman & 3 others were with me. We set 
down upon the edge of the Bluff in sight of the camp to rest ourselves & we saw a company of 
20 Horsman Approaching us from the camp in haste bearing A red flag. When they got within 
half a mile of us we trailed our arms & went down to meet them. 


Page 104 




They informed us that the party that went up the river had come upon an encampment of about 
400 Indian warriors. A party of about 100 had followed them down A ravene to cut off their 
retreat probably with the Intention of robing them of their Horses & Clothing & would take life if 
they could not do it without. And this company of Horsman Had come to us to call in the Hunters 
to camp. So we went in. 

The Hunters in coming in with the Horsman came across A Herd of Buffalo & Brought into 
camp 3 Calfs & 4 Antelope. They kept out a good guard during the night & we had no 
disturbance. The cannon was fired twice early in the morning to let the Indians know we were 
awake. I had a vary severe night with my side. Was in much pain. We had a great dew & frost 
during the night. 12. 

4th Thermometer stands at 33° this morning. I feel some better than I did last night. We started 
on our journey this morning 5 waggons a breast which made 5 roads. This was to be in readiness 
in case of an attack from the Indians. We travled 3 miles & saw some waggons on the opposite 
side of the river going down the Platt. 

Soon one of the men waded the Platt & came to us to see who we were &c. Infonned us they 
were traders from fort Laramie. He had been there 3 years had not tasted Bread for 2 years. Was 
16 days from Laramie. The grass was green & good on the south side to that fort but burnt off on 
the North side. He waided the Platt to come to us. A mile across it & did not go but little above 
his knees. 

He would take letters to us to [Sarpet] who lived near winter Quarters. So the camp stoped & 
wrote 52 letters to our familys. I was ahead of the company with O Pratt taking observations & 
did not know untill the time was nearly up. I then in great haste scribbled a few letters to my 
wife. An epistle was written to the Church &c. 

Three Brethren accompanied the Frenchman ac-cross the Platt. The other men was 9 in all. Had 
not seen an Indian since they left Laramee. Stated there was a ferry at the fort &c. Agreed to take 
our letters safe. 

We drove on 3 miles more & bated our teams untill the Brethren returned. They made A report to 
the camp of what was said to them. A Council of the whole Camp was then Called to deside 
whether we would cross the Platt or Continue up the North side of it. 

We were Convinced that it wood be better for us as a Company to Cross the river and use the old 
travled road to Laramae as their was good grass on the way on that side while the Indians were 
burning it all off on the North side of the river where we were travling. 

But when we took into consideration the situation of the next company & thousands that would 
follow after & as we were the Pioneers & had not our wives & children with us we thought it 
best to keep on the north side of the river & brave the difficulties of Burning Prairies & make A 
road that should stand as a pannanant rout for the saints indipendant of the old emigration rout & 


Page 105 




let the river seperate the emigrating companies that they need not quarrel for wood grass or water 
& when our next company came along the grass would be much better for them than it would on 
the south side as it would grow up by the time they would get along. A vote was Called & it was 
unanimous to go on the north side of the river. 

So the Camp again moved on, but during the nooning Col Markham drilled the men in a military 
Capacity. They unshiped the cannon carried it on wheels. 

The Frenchman infonned us that He never saw so many Buffaloos on the rout this year. They had 
to stop several times to let the Herd Pass so they could get along. 

We saw many deer & Antelope to day & also wolves And a few Buffalo. One large Bull Came 
across the river to us. We rode onto the bank before him & He run clear back again upon a loap 
& again crossed below us. We camped at night at a gravel creek or slew. A large Herd of Buffalo 
lay but a short distance before us. We travled in all today 9 m. 9 miles. 

5th I was quite sick with the diaree. The change from salt to fresh meat is affecting a number in 
camp. The 400 Indian warriors that was supposed to be seen on the 3d Proved to be fals. The 
man was frightened at a herd of Antelope & supposed them to be Indians. 

We had to keep a guard out this morning to keep a herd of Buffalo from mixing up with our 
Cattle. We have had vary strong south wind for 2 days. Two Buffalo Bulls at noon were 
approaching the Herd of Cows & men went out & drove them off. We rode up within 3 rods of 
one that was asleep stoped & looked at him for some minutes. He awoke & shook himself & 
leaped off. 

We met a large Herd in the afternoon. The Brethren killed one Cow 5 Calves & brought A Bull 
Calf into Camp a live with the intention of raising it. It would drink water out of a pail. They had 
some sport in trying to make it suck to a cow. It would try hard to bunt the men & dogs over & 
some got hard raps. 

I have been obliged to keep my bed a part of the day have sufferd much with Bowel complaint. 
When we stoped for [the] night we soon found ourselves in the midst of grass on fire & had to 
return back one mile & camped on a spot of ground on the Bank of the river that was just Burned 
over & no feed except small patches. Some took there Horses on an Island near & cut down 
cottonwood for them. We travled to day 15 miles. 

6th I was some better this morning. We had some rain last night. I had a poor nights rest. We 
started early this morning without feeding (except a little com) as there was no grass & travled 3 
miles & got beyond the fire. Left it in our rear & stop to bait & Breakfast on a good spot of grass. 

This morning the Herds of Buffalo speck the plains on both sides of the river. And Antelope in 
great abundance some of which run into camp. The Buffalo Calf is dead this morning that was 
brought into camp alive last night. We continued our journey saw many herds of Buffalo 
Antelope & one large Herd of Elk. A young Buffalo Calf Came into Camp & followed us. We 


Page 106 




gave him some milk & left him. 

We travled 10 miles & Nooned on the prairie. We scarsly meet with any timber now. Two 
Antelope were killed this forenoon but as we have so much meet in camp it is thought best not to 
kill any more Buffalo untill we need it or any other game. 

We were visited at noon with many Buffalo. Dr Richards G. A. Smith & myself walked up quite 
near several Buffalo Herds & exhamined through our glasses. They were sheding their coats. One 
bull Had a mat of wool swining by his side like a loose robe. 

Our Herd of cows started to run among the Buffalo & President Young on his horse [rode] to 
seperate them & had great difficulty in doing it. He lost A spy glass in the Chase worth $40. The 
Brethren Hunted for it A long time but Could not find it. 

We continued to Journey among the Herds of Buffalo & we are not out of sight of them at all. 
They have eat the grass out to such a degree that our cattle & Horses can get but vary little to eat. 
We camped near A Herd at night that reached as far as our eyes could extend. There were 
thousands in it. Distance of the day 20 m. 

7th A meeting was called. One of the Herdsman recieved a sharp reproof for neglecting the Cows 
yesterday. A teem was called for to take the canon. We had an exceding Cold north wind to day. 
We travled 6 miles & Camped upon the bank of the river. I should Judge we saw 10,000 Buffalo 
to day. 

We came near large Herds with a greater proportion than usual of calves, yearlings, & two year 
olds. We saw several large ones mired, dead. Wolves had commenced eating some of them. We 
could see wolves upon evry hand following the Herds of Buffalo to eat those who die of wounds, 
Accident or poverty. 

We had some rain in the evening. President Young & others rode out /6 mile/ in the evening to 
search out the road A few miles forward & for the first time on the Journey saw & killed a 
Polecat or Skunk. 

The Rigment was called out in the evening & drilled Anns inspected &c & found in good order. 

It was supposed an Indian was seen crossing the river in the night but was stoped & did not get 
ashore. 

8th A Plesant morning. Not so cold & winday as yesterday. We did not start untill 10 oclok as 
our teams wanted rest as they Could not get much as the Buffalo had eat all the food up. Br Wm 
Clayton prepared A mile gage on his hind waggon wheel to know how far we travel. 

I rode forward to day with the Twelve & others & of All the sights of Buffalo that our eyes 
beheld [this] was enough to asstonish man. Thousands upon thousands would Croud to gether as 
they came from the Bluffs to the Bottom land to go to the river & slues to drink untill the river & 
land upon both sides of it was one dark spectacle of moving objects. It looked as though the face 


Page 107 




of the earth was alive & moving like the waves of the sea. Br Kimball remarked that He had herd 
many Buffalo tales told But He never expected to behold what his eyes now saw. The half had 
not been told him. 

We saw many dead scattered about & many wolves following the herds. When we stoped at noon 
many of them walked along by the side of our waggons so that we might easily have shot them 
down. O P Rockwell did shoot one through the neck & she droped dead. It was a two year old 
Heifer & good meat. There were a great number of Calves & young cattle in the Herds we saw to 
day. We had great difficulty in keeping our Cattle & Horses from going among them for if they 
once get mixed with a Herd it is almost impossible to ever get them again. 

We travled to day untill we Came to the Bluffs that made down to the river & camped for the 
night. Distance 1 1 1/4 miles. 

I went onto the top of the Highest Bluffs that were near us & took A survey of the surrounding 
country with our glasses there being present B. Young H C. Kimball W Woodruff & G A Smith. 
The whole surrounding country north east & west as far as our vision could extend looked as 
rough as the sea in a storm of ridges & valleys of mostly sand with scarcely any green thing upon 
it except a little scattering grass & the Spanish soap root such as the mexicans use for washing 
with instead of soap. The top resembles A pine Apple the most of anything I ever saw. I brought 
in one root 24 inch long 2 inch in diameter. I pounded A little of it up & it would fill a dish with 
suds like soap. 

9th Sunday As we had no feed around us we took up } } our teams & passed across the Bluffs 4 
miles & camped for the day. I wrote 2 letters one to Br Ferguson & the other to Br Bevin for Br 
Wolley to take with him to Purbelo. 

We had a meeting & a good one. The spirit of God rules over the camp. Peace quietnes & 
contentment seems to pervade almost evry Breast. 

The Twelve met & thought it best for the Brethren not to start to Pueblo untill they arive at 
Laramey. In the evening I rode with the Twelve & others 4 miles up the river & returned. We saw 
large Herds of Buffalo come to there watering places to drink, some geese, cranes & one Pole 
Cat. 8 miles. 

10th A Cool morning. Before leaving the camp ground A letter was written to the next camp put 
into a small box nailed to A post 12 feet long one end put firm in the ground the other end erect 
in the air as A guide bord containing the following words: Open this Box and you will find a 
letter. 

316 miles to winter Quarters. Pioneers. Lattitude 41°. (Our Friends no doubt will be glad to get 
the letter as it contains an account of our Journey. 

We travled 6 miles & nooned then travled 4 & camped for the night. Our teams are some weak in 
consequences of not getting grass for several days as it was eat out by the Buffalo. There was one 


Page 108 




Buffalo, one deer & one Hare Brought into Camp by the Hunters to day, & distributed among the 
men in camp. We have what fresh meat we want daily. The grass is some better to day. Not but 
few Herds of Buffalo on our rout today we passed through some miles of dead grass which we 
set on fire to have new feed for the next company. It made a great fire indeed. We get our 
distance daily now of our travel from A mashine fixed to a waggon wheel which gives the true 
distance. We camped to night by an Island of cotton wood. 10 m. 

1 1th Quite warm to day. We travled 4 miles & made A short halt then travled 3 1/2 miles & 
camped A little below the junction of the North & south forks of the Platt River. I felt quite 
unwell. The use of fresh meet does not as yet agree vary well with me. We see but few Buffalo to 
day some Antelope & Deer &c. 8 1/2 miles. 

Professor Pratt informed me that He took an observation for the Longitude May 7th on the 
opposite bank of the Platt from whare Freemont gives the Longitude in his travels. Professor 
Pratt made the Longitude to be 100° 5 ’45" making it two seconds of a degree less than Freemont 
ownly about 10 rods which was vary Close calculating. He also found the Lat 1/2 a mile west of 
this nights encampment to be 41°7’44". 

12th A Cool morning. Mercury stands at 41. We had a strong S wind through the day. We travled 
8 miles & nooned. We then travled 4 miles & camped for the night on the bank of the North fork 
of the Platt. I rode onto the Bluffs to take a survey of the Country which was about 3 miles from 
the river & we found both on the Hills & flatts through the days travel that we were traveling 
over the Soux Hunting ground. 

There had been A large band from 500 to 1,000 we should Judge from there signs over the 
ground from 8 to 10 days before us. They took the brains out of the large Buffalos generally their 
Hides & some of the meet & broke up the bones for the marrow. 100 calves were found dead in 
one place with nothing taken but the tongues, legs to the knees & entrails. Another place 35 
calves were found dead & washed in heaps whare the Buffalo had been Chased across the river & 
run over the calves in rising the bank of the river. 

I found on the Bluff their medicine bag tied to a stick 6 feet long stuck up in the hank. It was 
what is called kinikinnick composed of tobacco & bark to smoke. I Also found a saddle tied to a 
large buffalo dung I supposed to show the next party which way the Buffalo had gone. 

I left my horse in the valley to feed while I went onto a Bluff to see the country & He started off 
not seeing the camp took the back trail & I had to run After him & while following him I run 
through the great Soux encampment whare they had had there lodges while on their hunt. I left 
my gun there & followed my horse untill I overtook him with the Assistance of Br Fowler who 
came out from our encampment & stoped him. 

I then rode back got my gun examined the ground & should judge their had been 400 lodges. 
There was Acres of ground covered with Buffalo wool whare they had dressed there skins. They 
left much stuff scattered over the ground such as peaces of dressed Buffalo & wolf skins 


Page 109 




mogascins &c. I brought in a good dressed white wolf skin. Distance of the day 12 rail. 

I could see the Bluff between the forks of the river about 10 miles above us. The Bluffs that I 
passed over to day were more fertile & coverd with more grass than any I had seen on the Platt 
before. 

A young Buffalo was killed & brought in in the evening. 

13 Many of the Brethren went out to visit the Indian encampment & brought in mogasens, parts 
of robes leather &c. We have A strong Cold north wind to day. We travled to day 1 1 miles & 
Camped on the west Bank of A stream about 18 rods wide with good ford that empties into the 
Platt. 

This is nearly opposite the first Bluff that is fonned between the two forks of the Platt. The grass 
was better than it had been. The Bluff here for the first time on the north fork comes bold to the 
river so that we have to go over the Bluffs with our waggons. 

There is one thing concerning the Platt river which is worthy of note, which is not characteristic 
[of] any other river that I have any knowledge of in the world. It is much of the way A mile in 
wedth & generally coverd with water but vary shallow. When A South wind blows hard the water 
all rushes to the north shore untill one would suppose there was a great rise in the water. Let the 
wind shift & blow hard from the North & the water immediately leaves the north shore untill one 
Can walk across two thirds of the river on bare ground & the river constantly ebs & flows like 
the tide just according as the wind blows. 

I went onto the bluffs Hunting Buffalo in the evening. Saw several small Herds. 

President Young gave the stream we camped on the name of the Bluff fork. 

I dreamed last night we had arived at our Journeys end whare we were to build up a stake of 
Zion. As we came onto the place there was An open vision of A temple presented before me. I 
asked some brethren that stood by me If they saw it. They said they did not. I gazed upon it & it 
was glorious. It appeared as though it was built of white & blue stone. The sight of it filled me 
with Joy and I awoke & behold it was a dream. 1 1 m. 

14th I went out early in the morning to Hunt some Buffalo. I cashed myself in the bank & a large 
Herd came along, but their old Bulls was out as a rear & front guard & there was none of their 
young cattle near enough for me to shoot so they past by. 

I saw some more coming. I way laid them. They proved to be 7 Bulls. I fired at the youngest one 
while [it] passed by but missed him. 

I then returned to camp. Took breakfast. Had a hard shower of rain, & some words with Br 
Fowler & started out again Hunting. 

Br Higby soon Killed an Antelope that was put on board of a boat called the revenue Cutter. 


Pagel 10 




Phineas Young & myself went out to gether. Waited for Buffalo & Antilope. I finally got lost 
among the Bluffs but found my way out again. Br Phineas shot an Buck Antilope & I carried him 
into Camp. There was 3 Antilope & one Buffalo Bull killed. 

Some of the Hunters thought they herd Indian guns on the opposit side of the river during the 
night. An Indian cralled up to a pair of mules that was tied together & made a grab to ketch them. 
They sprung & got away from him. One of the guards shot at him & he run. All Horses were then 
brought into the Circle & the Cannon prepared for firing but seeing no more it was not fired. 
Travled 8 miles. 

15th A vary Cold North wind & rain. We [— ] travled about 3 miles & camped in the best grass 
we had found on the road. Most of our road this morning was over & through the bluffs as they 
come again bold to the river. A large number of Barefoot tracks was seen this morning under the 
bluff on the bank of the river, supposed to be the Indians that Came down last night to steal our 
Horses. 

The rain stoped in the afternoon & we drove 5 miles & camped on the Prairie. Distance 8 miles. 

We saw the Bluffs dotted over with Buffalo. I went out with some others to hunt them. I Could 
not get within about 30 rods of them. I shot at the neck of one & the ball went into his sholdier 
which crippled him but He Hobbled away with the Herd & I did not get him. But there were A 
number of Hunters among the Herds & one of them killed A fat Buffalo which was brought into 
Camp. The Bluffs again come down to the river A short distance before us. 

16th Sunday Still Cloudy & Cool wind. I did not feel vary well this morning And did not rise 
untill 7 oclock which was two hours after the time. When I got out of my carriage I found all five 
of my horses standing at the stakes while all the other Horses of the encampment had been 
feeding two hours. It was Br John Fowlers Business to let them out but He did not get up untill 
half an hour after I did. He Is destitute of the spirit or principle that a faithful man or servant 
should possess. And it makes it much harder upon me in the care of the teams & business than it 
would if I had a true & faithful man with me. 

Br Burnham does our cooking which keeps him vary busy & He has the hardest time of it as 
much of the time He has nothing but Buffalo dung to make a fire of. We are now in a place 
whare we are proving ourselves & if we are not faithful we shall Come under Condemnation. 

I rode out to day with Brothers Young Kimball, Benson Rockwell & Stephens 4 miles over the 
Bluffs to pick out a road for the camp to go across to get again on the bottoms. We found a road 
through & returned to the camp. I picked up A young Hare which Br Young took in to Camp. We 
saw Herds of Buffalo while Coming in. Br Glines went out Hunting & shot an Antelope & one 
Buffalo though it was against the rules of the Camp & Council of his Captain to go Hunting on 
Sunday. 

We had a good meeting in the Afternoon. Br [ ] opened meeting by Prayer. Brs Richards 


Pagel 1 1 




Markham Rockwood & Kimball spoke & the laws of the camp were read & a good spirit 
prevailed. The channel of the teaching was to Harken to council & sustain the Heads of the 
Church & go do what was said unto us & it would prove A Blessing unto us. 8 mi. 

17th It is much more wann & plesant to day than usual. Our road has been hard to day we came 2 
1/2 miles through sandy bluffs. We again struck the bottom 4 1/2 miles from our camping place 
but the bottom was much softer than usual & many slues to cross. We crossed about one dozen 
streams to day of vary clear water that come from springs in the Bluff from 1 to 10 feet across 
them which run almost on the top of the ground without any bank at all with hard sand or gravel 
bottom. The water however was not as cold as spring water generally is. 

The Hunters brought in 3 Buffalo & it detained the Camp some to get them in. President Young 
was not pleased with it as we had so much meet in camp already & they went out without 
Council. 

We saw vary large droves of deer to day in the bottom the most we have ever seen any day on the 
road. A young Fawn was picked up & brought into camp & kept. We travled in all to day 12 3/4 
miles. 

I led the camp mostly through the Bluffs in the morning before Brothers Young & Kimball come 
up. We rode together all day picking our roads. 

18th The camp was called together or the Captains of Companies & President Young sharply 
reproved the Hunters for shooting so much meet when it was not needed & detaining the camp or 
for taking life any more than could be helpd And Also the horsman for their indiferance in 
picking out the road. He said there was but two that had rode that manifested any interest in 
helping him get the Camp along. He spoke vary sharply upon the indiferance of men, & they 
rejected the meet when it was brought into Camp &c. 

The camp started out after the meet was disposed of & the Hunters or Horsman went forward to 
pick out the road instead of going Hunting. I did not hear a gun fired on the road during the day. 

Amasa Lyman was one called by name & reproved for not paying any attention to seeking out the 
road. But he was with us to day in that business. 

We rode 6 miles & nooned. We rode in the afternoon 9 3/4 miles & camped for the night. 
Distance of the day 15 3/4 m. 

19th We crossed the worst sand Hill Bluff of about one mile that we have crossed on the journey 
& what made it still worse the rain was pouring down upon us continually. We travled about 1/2 
mile on the flat & camped untill the rain was over for the time being. We started again at 3 oclok 
but it soon began to rain again hard. We travled untill 5 oclok & Camped for the night on the 
bank of the river. We travled 8 miles by the wheelometer. 8 miles. 

I rode forward during the day in the rain & picked out the road. We had the most water fall 


Pagel 12 




during the day and evening that we have met with on the whole Journey. 

20th We came 7 miles & Camped for our nooning on the North side of the Platt opposite Ash 
Creek that comes through the Bluffs to the Platt on the south side of the river whare the Origon 
road first strikes the north fork of the Platt. 

Several of the brethren went over in a boat that we were taking with us & exhamined the rock 
Bluffs, road, creek, &c & returned with some Ash, rock, wild curands, & Cherry &c. We came 
on 8 3/4 miles & camped for the night. 

We crossed a large creek about 12 rods across it which we supposed it to be A Creek that Glos 
Cload called the Rawhiyde. We had a vary good road most of the day on the bank of the River. 
We have passed A good deal of rock Bluff on both sides of the river, & some on the south side of 
the river was formed into natural terrices Rotundas, squairs &c 50 or 100 feet high. Looked like 
good foundations to build forts & fortications & strong holds upon. They resemble the work of 
Art & look some like the old castles of England & Scotland. They were level on the top. 

A short distance above Ash Creek there is A beautiful Ceder Island in the river which is a good 
Beacon to show travelers whare the Oregon road strikes the river. 

We have had a cool, windy, cloudy day. Whole distance 15 1/4 m. 

Brother Egbert drove Br Pratts carriage tongue into the hind end of my Carriage & broke in the 
end bord & the water came in when it rained so that it wet my things & to day Br Fowler run his 
waggon into it again to day but when I spoke to him about it He denyed it which caused some 
words between us. 

We had some little rain to day. The Bluffs on the opposite side that I have described above are 
named Castle Bluffs & the stream that was called rawhide is Called Castle Creek. 

21st Before we left the encampment Br Clayton put up A guide board with the following 
inscription for the benefit of the next camp from winter Quarters: 409 miles from the Junktion: 

93 1/4 ceder Bluff 36 1/2. Ash Hollow 8 miles, & 133 from Fort Laramee. 

We travled to day 7 1/2 miles & nooned. In the Afternoon 8 m. & Camped for the night. We saw 
8 or 10 Buffalo to day but have not seen but few for several days. We saw some deer & Antilope 
to day. I killed A Bagger with the jaw bone of a Buffalo. 

Just as we got to A Camping place two Indians came from the Bluffs riding towards us & made 
signs for us to come to them. Several of the brethren went. It was A sioux Indian & his wife. 

They talked by signs awhile & went away. Distance of the day 15 1/2 miles. 

22d The brethren found A part of a petrified leg bone of A Mamouth. It was from the knee joint 
downward. The piece was 17 inch long, 1 1 inches wide & weighed 27 lbs. 

We travled to day 7 1/2 miles & nooned & in the Afternoon 8 miles & camped for the sabbath. 


Pagel 13 




Whole distance of the day 15 1/2 m. 

Our road has been vary strait to day but we came over 2 1/2 miles of the worst Bluff sandy & 
Hilly that we have past on the rout. We have also past several large creek beds of dry sand. The 
Bluffs on our rout to day have presented the most singular natural senery that I ever beheld in my 
travels on the earth. It has the greatest appearance of the old walls & ruins of the castles of 
Europe from the size of chimneys to 100 feet square or more. Bodies of earth & rock that 
Appears as though it was formed out of clay stand erect scattering through the Bluffs from 10 to 
100 feet high with perpendicular sides as strait as walls of A building while all the earth around 
them have been washed away to their base with rain & time. 

A spring of Cold water was found in the top of one of these peaks Apparently in a small basin of 
stone. There are considerable number of rattle snakes come out of these bluffs. I saw near A 
dozen to day. A good share of the rout this Afternoon the face of the earth is barren Almost 
destitute of grass. 

23d Sunday In Company with B Young & the Twelve we visited the top of two of the Highest 
Bluff ruins that lie opposite our encampment which were truly a curiosity. O. Pratt took a 
Barometrical observation on the ownly tree which was red Ceder on the top of the ruins of Bluff 
which we visited. 

We had A fair view of chimney rock from whare we were. I carried A Bleached Buffalo Bulls 
head on to the top & wrote upon it with a pencil our names & distances from several places for 
the Benefit of the next Camp. 

While Br Fairbanks [ ] was on one of these Bluffs He was bit with A rattlesnake & became 

vary painful before He reached Camp. The Brethren commenced giving him such things as they 
thought best, And he soon was better. 

The camp met at half past 1 1 oclok. E Snow Addressd the Meeting & spoke well. President 
Young then addressed the Camp in an Interesting manner. Said He was satisfyed that the Lord 
was with us & 

Leading us. Had never seen a company of people more united than the Camp had been thus far 
on the journey. That we should pluck the fruits of this mission to all Eternity. That He had many 
things to teach us but Could not do it ownly in a stake of Zion. But He was well satisfyed with 
Himself, his brethren the Twelve & the camp at large. 

One thing He would say to the praise of all, that was not one had refused to obey his Council on 
the road. His peace with God was continually like a river & He felt that the spirit of peace rested 
upon the whole Camp. Many good things were said. Several other brethren followed him After 
which meeting was dismissed. 

We intended to have road eout in the evening but we saw that a stonn was gathering, & it soon 
began to Blow vary hard. About as much as we could do to save our waggons Bows & covers 


Pagel 14 




from being smashed. The hard wind continued for about an hour then it commenced raining 
which lasted about one hour accompanied with some hail. It turned vary Cold. I had fears that 
some of our horses would perish with the Cold As such changes were freequent in this region. 

Mr Sarpee related a Circumstance that transpired several years since at about this place on the 
22d of May one day earlier than this while travling down this fork of the platt. It was warm 
weather. The grass 10 inch high. It began to rain some in the Afternoon & turned Cold in the 
evening & before morning 16 of his best Horses were frozen to death by the side of the waggons 
& his boats froze into the Ice in the river. 

The Changes are vary great in this Country & when I see it turning so Cold I Coverd all my 
horses with Blankets that I Could. I got up several times in the night to see to them. It rained 
occasionally in the night. The Horses shook with Cold but morning came & all was Alive. As 
soon as they were let loose they run to wann themselves. 

24th It was A Cold morning. Yesterday morning the Thermometer stood at 52°, At noon 82, & 
this morning 38 accompanied with north wind. We travled 10 miles & nooned. 

I dreamed this morning that some Indians came into camp in a friendly manner & stole 6 Horses 
before our eyes & rode off. We gave them chase on horsback & I awoke. 

As soon as we camped this noon two Indians came to the Camp. They were Sioux. They were 
well dressed & clean. We gave them some dinner & showed them An Indian dog that had 
followed us several days but the dog would not follow them. They soon left the camp. 

Chimney rock still grows plainer to our view. We drove in the Afternoon 6 1/2 miles & camped 
near the quick sand mountain that run in a ridge from the river back. This Apparently had been 
heaped up by the wind. 

I rode About two miles forward to find grass And A Camping place And on my return I saw 
about 30 Sioux Indians Plunge their Horses Into the River on the opposite side & make towards 
us. I rode with several others to the river & met them as they came out. They shook hands with 
us, vary friendly. The Chief unfurled A large American Flag with the Eagle stars & strips & 
presented me A Letter. It was written in french. We however made it out. They were all well 
dressed. The Chief was dressed in A military Coat. The Brethren from Camp brought A white 
flag & stuck down by the side of theirs. They wanted to go into Camp. We proposed for 5 of 
them to go & the rest to remain in Camp but they all wiched to come so we let them. We gave 
them supper. They remained about camp all night, but were good & stole nothing. Distance of 
the day 16 1/2 m. 

25th The Sioux are in camp this morning. We gave them Breakfast. They stayed with us untill we 
started. Some little traiding was done. They were men women & children. They crossed the river 
when we left & behaved well. We drove 2 miles & Bated our horses, then drove untill 1 oclok & 
nooned. 


Pagel 15 




Then drove untill 6 colok & camped for the night. Distance 12 m. 

I was unwell. Had the Rheumatism in shoulders & back & teethake. Had to keep [to] the 
carriage. I read Hastings account of calafornia. He tells some great stories about California & 
Oregon. We camped within about 4 miles of chimney rook. 

26th We travled 6 1/4 miles & nooned in good grass about 2 miles above Chimney rock. We 
travled in the Afternoon 6 1/4 miles & camped for the night. The Hunters brought in four 
Antelope. We passed much good grass to day. I rode to day with Br Kimball & Benson to look 
out the road. 

I have during the last two days read Mr Hastings account of Oregon & upper Calafornia. He has 
greatly exhagerated the account of upper Cala-fornia. 

Just before camping at noon while travling on A smooth prairie An Accurance took place which 
like to have proven of serious consequence to our camp. An Indian Horse that was bought of the 
Sioux ran away with A singletree to his heels & gave A tremendious fright to the cows, oxen & 
horses that were Attached to the waggons. And in an instant A dozen or more waggons were 
darting by each other like lightning & the Horses & mules flying as it were over the ground. 

Some turned to the right & some to the left. Some run into other waggons. The Horse & mule 
that Br Fowler was driving leaped with all spead. With Br Little hold of the lines & Br Fowler 
hold of the bits they darted by my carriage like electricity & came within one inch of A collission 
with my wheels. If they had locked we should have been a wreck. 

Another waggon followed by in the same manner with a pair of Mules & one yoke of cattle upon 
A keen run which would also have smashed my carriage if they had hit it but my own horses by 
this time started to run but was soon held up by the driver. 

Br Fowlers waggon continued to roll regardless of rough or smooth ground for about fifty rods & 
he draged the whole distance by the bit which was the case with many others but all was soon 
stoped & returned to there lines without any accident to any team of waggon which Appeared to 
me truly A miricle. 

William Sincots team run away also with great speed. It give us sumthing of an Idea what An 
Indian yell would do in such an encampment with teams hitched to waggons. A person can 
hardly con-cieve of the power that is manifest in Animals esspecially mules when in such A 
fright. But I felt thankful that no accident happened. 

By An Imperfect measurement by a Trigonometrical observation By the sexton Professor Pratt 
made the Chimney rock to be 260 feet above the level of the river. Distance of the day 12 1/2 m. 

27th We started 15 m before 8 oclok travled in a strait line 8 miles & nooned in good grass. Br 
Kimball & myself picked the road in the foomoon & it was left to me in the Afternoon I piloted 
the road in the Afternoon As strait as any road that had been made on the whole rout & picked 


Pagel 16 




out a camping ground on the bank of the river in good feed. We travled 5 3/4 miles. 13 3/4. 

It should be understood that we are piloting A road for the House of Israel to travel in for many 
years to come. Therefore it requires the greater care. 

The Hunters brought in 5 Antilope to day. We Camped at half past 4 oclock opposite Scotts Bluff 
at Lattitude 41°50’52". The wedth of the river 772 yards. Awind soon arose accompanied by 
thunder & lightning. We had but little rain. 

28th A Cold rainy morning. The Camp Concluded not to start untill it stop raining. So we started 
at 10 colok & travled 1 1 1/2 miles & camped for the night on the bank of the river. It was A 
damp Cold day. 

We passed along side of A clear strem of water with some beaver dams & houses upon it. At one 
place it raised the water about two feet which was lined with fish A good share of which was 
speckled trout so the brethren informed me. This is the first stream I have met with containing 
trout since I left the New England States. Therefore I name it trout creek. It was not more than 3 
miles long. It arose from a large pure spring. It was but a little above Scotts Bluffs. * Distance of 
the day 1 1 1/2. 

During the evening President Young called at my fire & seeing several of trhe brethering playing 
dominoes in A waggon nearby began to teach by saying that the devil was getting power over the 
camp. That for several days past nearly the whole camp had drank into A spirit of card, Checker, 
& domino playing & dancing & the spirit of folley & if they did not spedily repent their works, 
labours, & Journey would be in vain. That we should not accomplish the object for which we had 
come but should be thwarted in it. He said the Camp did not quarel any to be shure for the devel 
would not set them to quarreling as long as he could draw them away gradually from duty & fill 
them with nonsens & folley, for the devil was vary Cuning in drawing away the people of God. 

I felt the force of his remarks & thought them necessary. During the evening I went in to the 
doctors waggon, read a Chapter in the book of Mormon & prayed with them, After which B 
Young H. C. Kimball W Richards E. T. Benson & W. Woodruff met in council in Br Youngs 
wnggon & Br Young wrote some of the word of the Lord Concerning the Camp & expressed his 
views & feelings concerning the camp that they must spedily repent or they would be cursed, that 
they were forgetting their mission & he had rather travel with 10 righteous men who would keep 
the Commandments of God than the whole Camp while in a Carless manner & forgetting God. 
We stayed untill 10 oclok & retired to rest. 

29th A Cold rainy morning. At 10 oclok the horn was blown to gather up the Horses & Cattle 
which took more than an hours After which President Young called the Camp together and 
Required each captain to seperate or Call out his men & when it was found all was present except 
two who had gone a hunting He then Addressed them somthing in the following language: 

I think I will take for my text to preach my sermon from I am about to revolt from travling with 


Pagel 17 




this camp any further with the spirit they now possess. I had rather risk myself among the savages 
with ten men that are men of faith, men of mighty prayer men of God, than to be with this whole 
Camp when they forget God & turn there hearts to folley & wickedness. Yea I had rather be 
alone, & I am now resolved not to go any further with the Camp unless you will Covenant to 
humble yourselves before the Lord & serve him & quit your folley & wickedness. 

For A week past nearly the whole camp has been card playing, chequres & dominoes have 
occupied the Attention of the brethren dancing & Nigering & Hoeing down. All has been the 
[bet?] continually. Now it is quite time to quit it, & there has been trials & law suits upon evry 
nonsensical thing & if these things are suffered to go on it will be but a short time befor you will 
be lighting knocking each other down & taking life & it is high time it was stoped. 

I do not want to hear any more such reports as I herd last Sunday of mens going to meeting & 
preaching to the rest after he had played cards untill meeting time. You are A putty set of men 
going to seek out A location among the mountains for a resting place of the Saints, even the 
whole Church of God who have been driven out from the gentiles & rejected of them. And after 
you have esstablished A location you are then going out to preach the gospel & seal salvation 
upon the House of Israel & gather the nations. How would you look if they whould know your 
conduct & Ask you what did you do when you went to seek out Zion, & find A resting place for 
the Saints whare the Standard of the Kingdom of God could be reared & her banners unfurled for 
the nations to gather unto? [Did?] you spend A good deal of your time in dancing pitching quate, 
Jumping wrastleing &c? Yes. Yes. Did you play Cards, dice checkers & dominoes? O! Yes. 

What Could you do with yourself? Why you would shrink from the glance of the eyes of God 
Angels & men even wicked men. Then are you not ashamed of yourselves for practicing these 
things? Yes you are & you must quit it. 

After speaking sumwhat lengthy upon these matters He Called the Twelve together the High 
Priest, Seventies & Elders, & found to be 8 of the quorum of the Twelve, 18 High Priest, 80 
Seventies & 8 Elders After which President Young Said unto the Twelve if you are willing to 
Humble yourselves before the Lord & covenant to do right & walk humble before him, make it 
manifest by raising the right hand. When each one raised their hand, the same question was put to 
the High Priest, Seventies, Elders & Members & all universally Covenanted with uplifted hand to 
humble themselves before the Lord & repent of their sins & keep his Commandments. 

President Young then spoke of those who was not in the Church As there were sum present that 
they would be protected in their rights but they must not introduce wickedness in the Camp for it 
would not be sufferd. 

He then spoke of the standard & ensign that would be reared in Zion, to govern the Kingdom of 
God * And the nations of the earth. For evry nation would bow the knee & evry tongue confess 
that JESUS was the Christ. And this will be the standard The Kingdom of God & his Laws & 
Judgment in <the [-] if [— ] man Christ>. And on the standard would be a flag of evry nation 
under heaven so their would be an invitation to all Nations under heaven to come unto Zion. 


Pagel 18 




The Saints would have to keep the Celestial law, And all nations & religions would have to bow 
the knee to God And Acknowledge that Jesus was the Christ. But they would not be under the 
necessity of being Baptized or embracing the Gospel of Christ, but they must acknowledge the 
right & reign of Christ. Then if they felt disposed to reject the gospel & be damned they had A 
right to & the saints or inhabitants of Zion had no right to take from them their religion or 
persecute them on account of it or trample upon their rights any way. Neither should other 
nations or religions trample upon the rights & privileges of the Saints who serve & obey the Lord 
of [-] [and] Keep his Commandments. Neither would that be suffered as it has been in times past. 

And upon this principle All men or religions may dwell with us in peace, if they will keep the 
outward laws of the kingdom of [God] so as to ac-knowledg his name & his right to reign & let 
us keep the law of the gospel & obey his commanndments undisturbed. 

After making other remarks He left the meeting in the hands of the rest of the Twelve. Elder 
Kimball followed & remarked that what President Young said it was the word of the Lord unto 
him & was Just as much binding upon him as though it was A written Revelation And it was just 
as much binding upon the whole camp as it was upon him & urged the saints to give heed to the 
teachings that were given. 

0 Pratt followed & said that if the Saints had leasure hours that they Could spend them to much 
better Advantage than playing Cards As there was A world of Knowledge to be obtained & evry 
leasure moment should be improved in storeing the mind with some science or learning some 
good principle And acknowledged the teachings we had recieved to be of the Lord. 

W. Woodruff Arose & said He had some things in his heart he wished to Say, that A Burned 
Child dreaded the fire. He had not forgotton his Journey in the Camp of 1834 And should He live 
to the age of Matheusala He should not forget the hour when the Prophet & Seer Joseph Smith 
stood upon the waggon wheel & Addressed that Camp & said that because they had not 
Harkened to his Councel but disobeyed, & transgressed from time to time, that the die was cast & 
Judgment must come. That we should be visited by the destroying Angels. And so we were & 
more than twenty of our numbers fell by the stroke & we all suffered much in our feelings. And I 
pray the Lord I may not see another such a time. And I would now Advise my brethren to be 
Careful in Keeping the Covenant we have made lest by & by the word of the Lord Come unto us 
as in the days of Joseph & we cannot escape his judgment. 

1 would Advise all the Brethren who have got Cards to burn them up Also Checkers & dominoes. 
For if you keep your Covenants you have made you will have no time to use them & they will be 
useless lumber on your hands. If you keep them for your children they will ownly prove a curse 
to them. And my prayer to God is that we all may be enabled to keep all our Covenants with the 
Lord & each other. I rejoice that the watchman upon the walls or in our mids are quick to 
comprehend & warn us of evil & reprove us when wrong that we may be saved & do the will of 
Goth 


Pagel 19 




Br S. Markham Arose confessed his sins for Card playing on Sunday before he went to preach & 
asked forgivness. Then the Camp dispersed to there wag-gons & we all started on our Journey. 

Br. G. A. Smith & myself went to gether to pilot out the road. We travled 8 1/2 miles & camped 
for the night in good feed though the whole Country was vary barren that we had come through. 
We passed to day through layers of good Sand Stone in the edge of the Bluffs. One large rock 
resembled the Hull of A Steemboat loaded with freight So I named it stone steem boat bluff. It 
commenced raining before we camped. It was vary cold. 

Distance of the day 8 1/2 m. During the evening Br B Young went out with the Twelve & had 
Prayers. 

30th Sunday We set this day apart for Prayer & fasting. In the morning I shaved & washed all 
over & Anointed my head & put on Clean Clothing. Read A chapter in the Book of Mormon & 
humbled myself before the Lord & poured out my soul in prayer before the Lord & his spirit 
desended upon me & I was blessed. I spent some time in writing my Journal. 

The camp had A Prayer meeting in the morning & met Again in public Meeting. President 
Young in company with the quorum of the Twelve & a few others went into the vally of the Hills 
& according to the order of the Priesthood prayed in A circle Porter & Br Carrington watched to 
see that no Indians Come upon us. We had A good time. 

There was A heavy storm Appeared but it mostly went Around. There was but little rain whare 
we were. We returned to our waggons & took some refreshment having eaten nothing during the 
day. Soon the Son came out plain & plesant. 

In the evening I went out 2 miles with the quorum of the Twelve onto A High Bluff & had a 
good views of the Black Hills Also Prayers. 

3 1st There are many portions of this country vary barren. We travel over several miles at a time 
of level prairie with little or no grass upon it. In this ground we find great quantities of the 
Prickelly pair & they are an excellent plant to eat though coverd with thorns like needles which 
have to be carefully paired off with A knife & fork. They are quite delicious. Have A little tart 
but vary plesant. 

We had A plesant morning. Our cattle was strayed so far it took about 2 hours to get them up & 
get ready for starting. We however started at 8 oclock & travled 9 1/2 miles & nooned on a green 
flat. Most of the ground through the day was vary barren. Grass is again getting vary scarce. Br 
Pratt took an observation & found the Lattitude to be 42°4’30". 

We travled in the Afternoon 7 1/4 miles & camped upon the bank of a creek about 15 or 20 miles 
below Laramie. The Hunters brought in one long tailed deer. Saw several Elk & Antilope but go 
none of them. 


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I went forward to pick out the road through the day. I felt some unwell with teeth ake & canker in 
my mouth. Distance of the day 16 3/4. 

I would here mention that which belonged to the mornings Account that there was A Crust of 
frost over the grass. The Thermometer stood at 35, At 5 oclok. We Passed to day A grove of 
large cotton wood but the Sioux had wintered in it & Cut down the most of it for brows & wood. 

We are begining to come to wood more plenty but the Camp has had much difficulty to obtain 
wood to cook with for the last weeks as we had neith[er] timber nor Buffalo Chips. The men 
would follow the river bank all day & Islands to pick up any wood sticks barks or chips that 
might chanced to have lodged on the bank by the flood or that the Indians may have left. But it is 
now to be readily obtained. It is supposed that the Creek we camp on to night is the rawhide. 

June 

June 1st 1847 A fine pleasant morning. I had suffered much from the tooth Ake of late. I went 
before starting on the journey to Luke Johnson A dentist & got my tooth part of it dug out is 
broke of & left the stump in my Jaw which pained me through the day. 

We travled 6 miles & nooned whare we had but little feed. We travled in the Afternoon [ ] 

miles & camped on the bank of the platt opposite of Fort Laramie within 11/2 miles of the fort. 

When we arived we saw some men Approaching us from the fort. When they arived on the bank 
we found them to be a part of the company of the Mis-sisippi Brethren who had been to Pueblo 
through the winter. Brother Crow & his family 7 waggons & 14 souls were the individuals who 
were at the fort. They soon stood upon the bank of the river. We lanchd our boat & crossed the 
stream to them. Several of the brethren went over to them Among whom was Br Brown that led 
up the same Company to this place last year. They were truly glad to meet. No one can imagin 
the joy of friends on meeting each other under Such circumstances Away from the Abodes ol 
white men whare they are ownly visited by Savages. 

Br Crow Came across & met in Council with us, And informed us that the remainder of the 
Missippi company with the portion of the Monnon Battalion that was at Pueblo would start for 
Laramie About the first of June & follow our trail onto Calafornia. He infonned us of 4 of the 
brethren who had died one of which was Arnold Stephens. Had herd nothing of the main body of 
the Battlion. 

He soon returned home & the camp met together. President Young suggested the propriety of our 
leaving all our plows at the fort except such as we should want to use immediately when we got 
there, to do up our Blacksmithing, Burning Coal, mending wag-gons &c As soon as possible so 
that we Could go on our Journey as spedily as possible. A company was Appointed to do herding 
& to attend to all those branches of business. We then retired to rest. 

I Am quite unwell & have been for several days. I have canker in the mouth bleed at the nose, do 


Pagel21 




not rest well nights. Distance of the day 12 m. 

2d In company with the Twelve & others I crossed to the river to visit the fort & those who 
inhabit it. We exhamined for St John which is now evacuated but the walls are standing. The 
dimen-ticns of St John are 144 by 132 outside. The inside of the fort contained 16 rooms, 7 
rooms on the North west & 7 on the South east one on the South, the largest on the north 98 feet 
long 47 wide. 

The Oregon trail runs one rod from the S.W. cornor of the fort. 

We next visited Fort Larimie now occupied by 38 persons French mostly, who have Married the 
Sioux. Mr Burdow is the superinteder. This fort is 168 by 1 16 outside. Thire are 6 rooms upon 
two sides, & 3 rooms upon the north & 3 upon the south occupied by stores Blacksmith & 
dwellings. It is quite A plesant situation for A fort. 

Mr Burdow was A Frenchman And a Gentleman. He recieved us kindly And invited us into A 
large setting room on the north side of the Fort elevated about 10 feet from the ground, A flight 
of stairs leading to it. Gave us any information He could in relation to our rout. Also furnished us 
with his flat boat on reasonable tenns to assist us in fer-rying the Platt. 

He infonned us that Gov Boogs & his men had much to say against the mormons & Cautioned 
him to take care of his horses cattle & c lest we should steal them. [He tried to prej?]udice him 
against us all he could. He said that Boggs company was quarrelling all the time & most of the 
company had deserted him. He finally told Boggs & co that let the Monnons be as bad as they 
would they could not be any wors than He & his men were. 

He Had A number of Soux women & Children around him while we were there. About 20 of the 
Sioux men, women & Children came with Peltry to the trading House. Provisions of All kinds 
were vary high & goods at the store flour 25 cts a pound tobacco $1.50 cts per lb. After 
conversing with him for a length of time we got into the flat boat about 20 of us & went down 
the Laramie fork to its mouth about 2 miles & up the platt half a mile to our camp. 

After dinner we met in council & there decided that Ameza Lyman go to Pueblo with several 
other brethren to meet the detachment of the Battalion that was there for them to come As soon 
as Convenient to Laramie & follow our trail to Calafornia. 

I finished the letters to send to Beven & Ferguson. I picked some greens & had a good dinner of 
them though I am not well to day. 

3d A vary windy day. We commenced before Sun ris to ferry over our boats. My ten was the first 
that went over. The wind was favorable. We saw 3 men arive on pack Horses last evening at the 
fort on the Oregon road. We ascertained this morning they were from St Josepheth. They report 
2,000 waggons on the road to Oregon from St Joes. They are divided into companies of 20 to 50 
waggons & that they will arive here tomorrow the first co. Mr Burdow called down to See us 
cross to day. 


Page 122 




We set up our Blacksmiths Shops in the old fort to do our work, & made fires to do our washing. 
Br Burnham done my washing to day the first time I have washed my clothing since I left winter 
quarters. Br Frost set 6 shoes for me to day & 2 for Br Smoot. 

In the evening I walked up onto the Highest peak around us, in company with the Twelve & 
others. We took a view of the surrounding Country. On our return to the camp we visited the 
Indian & French Burying ground. The Indians were laid up upon A Staging about 10 feet from 
the ground. The French were buried in the groun strong pickets around with a Cross at the head 
being Catholics. Snow was discoverd upon the mountains through glasses. 

4th } } I wrote two letters to day one to Mrs W. & one to Aphek Woodruff A. O. Smoot & J 
Benbow & left them in the Hands of Mr. [ ] who keeps the Store & Acts As post Master. He 

appeared vary friendly. Said He would for ward our letters that were to go to winter Quarters to 
the Care of Mr Sarpee & those that were to be deliverd to the Monnon Camp would deliver them 
to the leader of the Camp on our Arival. He truly manifested much friendship towards us. 

Professor Pratt took observation at the fort for the Longitude at the fort. 

I conversed with A mountaineer who had wintered at the great Basin of the Salt & Eutau lakes & 
he recommends the Country vary Highly for A healthy fertile Country the Lakes & streams 
Abounding with trout & other fish A good supply of shugar maple & other timber &c. 

Before we left Br Clayton Erected A guide board on the north side of the river containing the 
following infonnation which He took from his Journals on the distances which was correct as it 
was obtained from the wheelometer: 543 1/4 miles from Winter Quarters 227 1/2 miles from the 
Junction of the Platt 142 1/4 miles from Ash Hollow 70 1/4 miles from Chimney Rock And 50 
1/2 from Scotts Bluff. 

We left the Fort & started on our Journey. We took the right hand road up the platt & travled 8 
1/4 miles & camped for the night. The travel now Appears to be attended with A good deal of 
interest as we begin to ascend the black Hills which are universally coverd with pine & ceder. 

We saw one vary High peak coverd the top with Snow. Br Robert Crow Joined us which Added 
to our company 9 men 5 women 3 Children 6 waggons 13 yoke of oxen cows 3 Bulls 10 young 
Cattle And Horses which makes in the whole Camp 148 men, 8 Women, 5 Children, 79 waggons 
96 Horses 51 Mules 90 oxen, 43 cows 3 Bulls 9 calves 16 dogs And 16 Chickins. 8 1/2. 

I was in great pain in the Afternoon & night with the nervous Head & teeth Ake. 

5th We have freequent slight showers yesterday & to day while among the hills. I was sum better 
to day. We had quite A rough road to day. We travled up & down the Hills untill we arived at 
what is called the warm spring which is at the fork of the two roads that comes from Laramie. 

We here nooned & visited the head of the Spring which was quite wann for drinking water. It 
boiled out of the bluff & made A little rivulet about 4 feet wide & 3 inches deep. It was Clear 
soft water but no warmer than I have freequently found water in rivulets exposed to the sun. 


Page 123 




The bluffs, peaks & Hills begin to be more lofty as we get into the Hills. We are begining to 
Come to an elk, bear & mountain sheep country. We saw their signs to day. We came in the 
forenoon into the 6 1/2 miles making 15 miles from Laramie to the springs. Soon after we arived 
the first company of Missouri emigrants came up 12 waggons of them. 

Professor Pratt took an observation for the Lattitude At the head of the warm spring & found it to 
be 42°15’6". 

We travled in the Afternoon 10 1/2 miles & camped on the west side of A small pure stream of 
water in good feed. The Missouri company camped 1/4 of a mile below us on the same stream. 
They started this morning from the fort & took the South road which is 5 miles nearer than the 
North road which we took & A much better road. Distance of the day 17 miles. 

6th Sunday This day was Also devoted to prayer & fasting. The Missouri company that Camped 
near us started on this morning. I am still troubled with the teeth ake. 

The Camp met for A prayer meeting at 8 oclok. The spirit of the Lord was with the people. The 
Camp Also met for A preaching meeting at 1 1 oclok. We had A shower of rain & the meeting 
closed. 

Another company of Mo waggons of 20 passed us. It soon cleared off & the camp moved 
forward 5 miles & camped for the night on Bitter Creek whare the road leaves the Creek for the 
Hills. We Camped between the two Mo encampments one each side of [us]. 12 waggons in one 
& 20 in the other And A plenty of grass. 5 m. 

7th The two companies started out before us this morning. We travled 7 3/4 miles & nooned on 
A small creek which scarsly afforded water for our stock & but little grass. While here Another 
Mo company of 13 waggons passed us. We were in fair view of Laramie Peak with its top coverd 
with snow. 

I found an Abundance of Sweet thisaly in the bitter creek bottom whare we camped last night. 
Much of the shrubery which we past to day was the black currant & goosbury. 

We travled this Afternoon 5 1/4 miles & camped for the night on the Horse shoe Creek in the 
most splendid feed we have met with on the journey. The other three companies went ahead. 

Hors shoe Creek is heavily timbered with cotton wood Ash & willow. It is quite A large Stream. 

I went to fishing with a hook & line to see if I Could not get some trout but I cought nothing. 

The Black Hills Are A good deal timbered with pine. The Hunters brought in two black tailed 
deer & one Antilope to night. Distance of the day 13 mils. 

Professor Pratt took several Barometrical observations at Larimie during 3 days & found the 
highth above the level of the sea to Be 4,090 feet. The Lattitude was 42°12T3". By a mean of six 
sights with a good sextant the Longitude west from Greenwich was in time 6 h 46 m 47 s.5 equal 


Page 124 




to 104°1 1'53". Lat of the warm springs west of Laramie 42°15’6". 

8th We travled 6 3/4 miles & nooned upon A small creek with little water & fair grass. We 
formed A company of men & went forward of the teams & cleaned the road of stone. We used 
pick Axes, bars, spades &c. It was A great help to our week waggons. The road was exceding 
Hilly & mountaineous. 

In the Afternoon we travled 8 3/4 over the most mountaineous road we have had on the rout. We 
then desended into A valley & camped for the night on Labent Creek with an abundance of 
timber water & good grass. We saw nothing of the Mo companies. 

Br John Higby went forward Hunting & saw them when they started out, & they had such strife 
one with another in trying to start first they did not stop to milk their cows, & in clearing up their 
breakfast they strewed their meal, salt, bacon, Short Cake, Jonney cake Beans & other things 
upon the ground through their encampment & when we came up 3 wolves were feeding upon the 
fragments. I picked up a pocket knife & Spoon left upon the ground. 

When we came over the high Hills to day it was so Cold it pierced us like winter. When we 
reached the valley we found fires the companies in advance had built. We piled on the wood. 
Soon got warm. An Antelope lay before us the Hunters had brought in. We carved it up with our 
knives & stuck it on sticks & roasted it on the fire & it satisfyed our Appetites finely without 
Salt. 

Some traiders Came into Camp from the mountain on their way to the fort. G A. Smith Sent A 
letter by them back to the fort. Distance 15 1/2 miles. 

During the evening we visited the traiders & got some information from the salt lake country 
which was flattering or good account was given of it. 

9th We started at 5 oclok & drove one mile into better feed & turned out our teams. The brethren 
traided some for robes mogacines & skin shirts & pants with the Hunters who camped near us. 
And at about 7 oclock 15 waggons of our party was chosen to go forward to make A boat to ferry 
the Platt. They went forward. We followed them. The traiders started At the same time. Soon 
another party of traiders over took [us] who were direct from Santi-fee. They informed us the 
Mormon Battalion was at calafomia. Went in Jan & that Capt Brown was in Santafee for money 
for the detachment & would come on as soon as possible. We travled 1 1 1/4 miles & nooned in a 
valley without watter. 

In the Afternoon we travled 8 miles & camped upon A’la’preel Creek. When we rode up to the 
Creek we overtook our little pioneer company that we sent on in the morning to built the boat. 
The Missouri company was also in sight notwithstanding their exhertion to get ahead of us. Our 
detachment followed the Mo company. How far they travled I know not. 

Our Hunters killed two Black tailed deer & one Antilope yesterday & An Antilope to day. I am 
still troubled much with the teeth Ake. With the exception of this I feel vary well. Distance 19 


Page 125 




1/4. 


10th In company with G. A. Smith I went forward to A large creek 8 3/4 miles from our Camping 
place. Here we overtook the Mo Company. They were about 4 miles from our camp. We nooned 
upon this creek. In the Afternoon we reached the platt river & camped upon a cleer creek. 9 
miles. Whole distance of the day 17 3/4. 

I examined A splendid grind stone queyry on the east side of the road as it leaves the Hills & 
strikes the platt. It was 30 rods long above the ground & could readily be got at. The grit was fine 
& nise. 

The Hunters brought in two Antilope. We have good feed & our Horses & Cattle are gaining. In 
the afternoon Presidents Young & Kimball rode with us. Our det[..] had company. Camped last 
night with the fore most company & we have not herd from them since. 

Br Carrington found A vary extensive coal bed in this creek. One layer of about 10 feet thick 
another 4 feet. Length not known but was examined for 20 rods or more. The specemins of Coal 
produced wer excellent. 

The Twelve walked on to the river bank examined the river, feed, &c had prayers & returned. 

At the blowing of the Horn I did not feel much like retiring to bed so I walked 1/2 a mile from 
the camp on the bank of Deer Creek & found Br Clayton fishing with a hook. He Had caught 
about two dozen good fish. Another Br Hannon had caught some. They resembled the eastern 
Herrin. They were about to leave & they left their lines for me to fish with so I Sat down for half 
an hour musing alone as unconcerned as though I had been sitting upon the banks of Farmington 
river. 

Vary suddenly I herd A rustling in the bushes near me & for the first time the thought flashed 
across my mind that I was in A country Abounding with the griselly bear wolves & Indians And 
was liable to be attacked by either of them at any moment & was half a mile from any Company 
& had no weapon not even enough to have defend myself against A Badger & I thought wisdom 
dictated for me to return to camp so I took up my polls & fish & walked leasurely home & retired 
to rest which Closed the business of the day. 

1 1th We rode 9 miles & camped upon the Platt bottom for nooning. We travled in the Afternoon 
8 miles & Camped upon the bank of the Platt within A short distance of the Mo Camp who were 
trying to ferry over their waggons. They reported our camp to be At the ferry 10 miles or so 
Above us. 

The Hunters brought in 13 Antelops. The Mo company had killed 3 Buffalo. A young Antelope 
had hid behind A bunch of sage to keep out of the way of the Hunters. I discoverd him & 
cr[awled?] up & Caught him in my hands but He gave such a spring He Cleared himself from 
me. 


Page 126 




We rode our Horses into the river to day several times to see if we could find A fording place but 
we could not find Any As the stream had risen by the melting snows of the mountains. We 
passed some snow to day on the highest peaks. Distance of the day 17 m. 

12th I started in the morning to go forward in company with Br A. P. Rockwood who was riding 
President Young Stud when suddenly he sprung upon my horse but instead of striking my horse 
he took my knee into his Jaw & bruised me considerable. Sunk one tooth to the bone through 
three thicknesses of clothing & one of them buck skin. 

G A Smith & myself then rode on to the ferrying ground & found our detachment ferrying over 
the Missouri Company. They Paid the Brethren $1.50 cts per each waggon & load, & Paid in 
flour at $2.50 per cwt. Generally flour is considerd worth at the fort[s?] through this country at 
least $10 per cwt. 

It was difficult getting over the river. They carried the goods over in a boat & drew the waggons 
over by hand with ropes but when the curant struck them they would freequently rool several 
times over in the watter & smash their bows out. They also came near drowning their Horses And 
one man would have been lost if the brethren had not picked him out with the boat. 

We saw also on the road whare the Company had a run away of their teams. A Horse came 
runing among them & frightened their oxen And they all started to run. Two run up onto A bank 
& turned both waggons over with women & Children in & bruised them much, smashed Jars 
crockery, dishes, boxes & sundrys to peaces. One team run into the river & would probably have 
drowned & lost all had not A little boy Jumped out beside the off ox which frightend him & He 
out run the other hawed off & run onto a sand bar. He However kicked the boy against the wheel 
& the wheel knocked [him] down into the water which hurt him. But the seene ended without 
any loss of life. 

The Blacksmiths had been to work for the Missouri Company. Got flour money &c. 

The company of 4 traiders had camped near the brethren. Our hunters had been busily engaged in 
getting game. They had killed 5 fat buffalo 4 Bear one old she bear & 3 cubs, & shot at 2 griselly 
bear but did not get them. Those killed were the black bear. Saw A plenty of Antilope deer Elk & 
Mountain Sheep. The mountains near us Abound with Bear & other game. I found some buffalo 
meet the Hunters were not agoing to save, So I Cut out of the hump of A Buffalo about 40 lbs of 
good fat stake & spread it to dry. Also tryed out about 8 lbs of good tallow. 

I visited the traiders Camp. They also was drying fine fat Buffalo. One of the bears feet that was 
killed measured 7 1/2 inches long 5 inch wide 2 1/2 inch thick. Two toe nails 2 3/4 inch long 3/4 
inch wide. Our Hunters brought into Camp 8 Anti-lope. The camp came up & camped within one 
mile of the ferry ground in good feed. Had travled 1 1 1/4 miles. 1 1 1/4 m. 

13th Sunday A vary wann day. The Camp met for prayer meeting At 9 oclok. O P Rockwell, 
Brown, And another man were out all night Hunting. One of the men of the camp started out at 


Page 127 




dark to go to the mountain to get some snow. The distance looked so short he said He Could go 
& return before 8 oclok & was foolish enough to make A bet of one dollar upon it. But he did not 
get to the mountain by 8 oclok & about 10 oclok A Company of Horsman was sent out with A 
bugle after him fearing the bears would eat him up. 

We had A meeting at 10 oclok. H C. Kimball Addressed the meeting in an interesting manner, & 
was followed by Br Young who spoke upon the liberty of the gospel. Showed what it done for us. 
Saved us daily, exhaulted us to glory immortality & eternal life brought us evry good thing. But 
in doing this it did not do away with the law of God or the dictation of the Almighty. Some 
thought they wanted their liberty to curse, swear, stray whare they were A mind to, run over the 
mountains, not regard the laws & rules of the Camp, but would that be liberty? No, it would lead 
to death & not life. The man that left the camp & went to the mountains last night, had he have 
met A bear He would have had the liberty to have run for his life, Clumb A tree or been 
destroyed. 

The way to worship God the most acceptable is to do each day the vary things that will bring the 
most good to the human family. There is A great differance to be seen between us As A Camp & 
the Missouri Companies that are going the same road or A part of the way. They Curse & swear, 
rip & tare, & are a trying to swallow up the Earth. But though they do not wish us to have A 
place on earth the earth will soon swallow them up & they will go to the land of forgetfulness, 
while the Saints if faithful though they should suffer some privations here will ultimately inherit 
the earth & increase in dominion power & glory untill the Lord shall say to them, go to now 
make your thousands of worlds & people them & make such laws to govern them as you are a 
mind to for I Know you have no disposition to make any laws but those that are good for you 
always desired to do good on the earth, & many other goodly words bid He say unto our 
edefycation. 

He was followed by O Pratt who exhorted us to give head to the teaching we had herd & to 
improve our time in treasuring up usful knowledge that we ought not to spend A moments time 
needlessly. 

Meeting dismissed And the Twelve, Colonels, Captains, &c of the Camp met at the Presidents 
wag-gon to consult upon what measures to adopt to get across the river. It was finally agreed to 
go immediately to the mountains with a waggon & team for evry two tens & get polls & lash two 
or four waggons abrest to keep them from turning over & float them across the river with boats & 
ropes. So A company of Horsmen Started for the mountains & teams to draw the polls. 

In the evening the flour meal & bacon was distributed through the Camp equally that had been 
recieved from the Mo company for ferrying them over. It amounted to 5 1/2 lbs of flour 2 lbs of 
meat & A small peace of Bacon to each individual in the Camp. 

It looked as much of A miricle to me to see our flour & meal bags replenished in the midst of the 
black Hills as it did to have the Children of Israel fed with manna in the wilderness. But the Lord 
has truly been with us on this Journey. We have had peace & union in our midst, our Horses & 


Page 128 




cattle have been wonderfully preserved from death & Accident on the way & our waggons from 
Breaking down. Great good will grow out of this mission if we are faithful in keeping the 
commandments of God. 

I have taken great delight of late in reading the book of Mormon seeing the great & glorious 
things revealed & recorded in that book & that we are now trying to fulfill the great things or 
some of them that Lehi Nephi Alma, Moroni, Isaiah And many other prophets had in view in the 
last days in building up Zion, redeeming Israel, warning the Nations & sealing salvation upon the 
meek of the earth & laying A foundation that the earth may be prepared for the coming of the 
Mesiah. 

14th At day light the first two tens were Called together to make Arangments for crossing. The 
Proposal was made in the camp to lash 4 waggons to gether & float them but the curant was so 
strong many did not like that moad. We Appointed Br Grover As our Captain to direct the rafting 
over. We finally concluded to put our polls into A raft carry our goods over in a boat & put our 
waggons onto A raft. 

We commenced at 5 oclok & At 9 AM being 4 Hours we had landed eleven waggon loads of 
goods upon the North Shore with the little leather boat & during the day we got over all the 
waggons belonging to our tens being Eleven in all. And All of the rest encampment being twelve 
tens ownly got over the same number that we did. They floated their waggons by tying from two 
to four to gether. But they turned clear over each other bottom side upwards & back again. Broke 
the bows covers & boxes to peices & lost ploughs Axes & Iron that was left in the boxes. Most 
of our Company was in the water from morning to night & all was vary weary. 

When the work was done, we Saw A Heavy stonn Approaching us. We had just drawn Dr 
Richards two waggons to [of] his goods on the shore & loaded them into his waggons with all 
speed. Just got through as the stonn struck us. I sprung into my Carriage & tied all down tight but 
the rain wind & Hail beat upon me so Heavy that I had to lay out most of my strength to hold my 
waggon cover on. Both hail & rain came insid my Caniage untill my bed & things were nearly 
drenched. It ownly lasted 7 minutes but was vary severe. Most of the waggons & goods were 
more or less wet. Our Horses run two or three miles in the storm. When it was over I crossed the 
river & went after them tied them up returned back & went to rest vary weary, But had some 
plesant dreams. 

15th It is vary windy to day & our companies Cross the river vary slow. Another Missouri 
company has come up with us. I felt somewhat unwell to day with the exposers of yesterday & 
the teeth Ake. 

16th About 20 men went down the river to day & dug out two large canoes to cover over to make 
A ferry boat off to ferry over the large companies of emegrants that have arived & are on the 
way. 

President Young thought it wisdom to leave A number of the brethren here & keep a ferry untill 


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our Company Came up. Emegrants will pay for fer-rying $1.50 cts per waggon. Pay in flour, 
Cows, Beans &c. Flour at $2.50 per cwt Cows $10. The brethren also made two new rafts & got 
quite A number of our pioneer waggons over. 

I was quite unwell A part of the day with Ague in the face. I walked out however with O. Pratt 
about 3 miles onto some of the bluffs to view the country. We saw mountains to the North 
towering into the Clouds. We judged they were not much short of 100 miles from us. 

We had our guns with us I Hunted some. I shot one Antelope cut his throat with a bullet & He 
fell dead in his tracts. Br Pratt Shot at Another but did not get him. This was the first Antelope I 
ever Killed. I tried to back him into Camp but Could not do it well so I got two men to help me. 
We had some Heavy squals of wind & some rain in the Afternoon. 

In the evening many of us went over the river to tie up our horses & when one Company was 
Coming back in the leather boat they filled it half full of water & came near sinking. 

17th Early this morning we swam our Horses over the river. One mule came near drowning by 
being tangled in a rope but the curant carried him ashore & He made A live of it. The men went 
to work to finish their ferry boat while the men Continued to cross waggons on the raft. All of 
our company got over to day & the brethren crossed some of the Missourians. Some of the 
emegrants report 1,000 waggons between Laramie & this place & there Companies Are ariving 
daily at the fording places. 

Brs Young & Kimball got over to day & we all moved our waggons once more into A Circle. 

This is the 6th day since our arival to this place which is the longest henderance I sever saw At A 
ferry or crossing A river. Our brethren run the ferry boat All night to cross the Missourians but 
did not get over but few waggons. 

I Am still in much pain with the teeth Ake & sore lips & mouth. I had the privlege of milking A 
Mo Cow which gave me A plenty of milk for Supper & breakfast. 

18th We Are Still ferrying over the gentiles. Another large company arived to day. Bro Frosst 
mad me some nails & set two shoes for me on my Saddle Horse. We commenced gathering cattle 
at 10 oclok & Harnessed but did not start at all, but turned out teams again, as all were not ready. 

We held a council in the After noon & resolved to leave 9 men to tend the ferry to cross emegrant 
companies & also our brethren who should come After us. The men were Chosen & we met with 
them again in the evening. 

One Brother had petitioned to Stay that President Young wished to go along with the company. 
His name was Glines. He did not manifest a good spirit & Br Young reproved him. He then 
deliverd A short lecture which was interesting & instructive, And said that when He gave A man 
council He did not want him to reject that Council or to bring up many arguments to try to Alter 
it for when A man did it I will turn on my heal & leave him. 


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He Sayes there is another principle that has tried many in the Church because more will follow 
me than some Young Elder who has not proved himself but if he was to try to gather to himself 
the fruits of the labours of the Twelve & other men would that be right? No he would be pulling 
back that th[ose?] was before him. But let the Elders do as I have done & my Brethren the 
Twelve & other faithful men. Go and preach the gospel for years & do the will of God & you 
would have A train following you even the fruits of your own labour & you would be putting 
them After you & not drawing back that which is before you. 

The Lord is determined to esstablish his kingdom in the last days & He will have A faithful 
diligent & obedient people And He Chastizes the Saints to keep them humble & make them do 
there duty. If we had not been mobed & Afflicted but always been in prosperity we should have 
been lifted up in the pride of our hearts & not gatherd together & built up Zion as we ought to 
have done, so that these trials will work to gether for our good. 

Instructions was also given to the Brethren who were to tarry to keep to gether & be united. 
Divide the means equally among yourselves according to your labor. Let each essteem his brother 
as himself. In no wise retain that which belongeth to the traveller. Steal not at all. Be Careful of 
the lives & property of those you ferry over, & forget not your prayers. Keep together come up 
with the next company of Saints. 

The following are the names: Thomas Grover, John S. Higby, Luke Johnson, Wm Empy Edmond 
Els-worth, Benjamin F. Stewart, Francis Pomeroy, James Devenport, Appleton Harmon. Thomas 
Grover was Appointed captain. 

19th We parted with the brethren who were to attend the ferry & the Camp moved on having 
been one week. We travled through A barren Country to willow springs /A spring of water/ & 
nooned being 12 miles. We past the red butes & many rough picturesque seeneries & camped at 
night by the poison water. Travled 9 1/2 miles in the Afternoon. Whole distance 21 1/2. 

Our camping place for the night was the most wretched of any ground we have found on the way. 
President Young thought it might properly be called Hell gate. All the water tasted as though it 
run through A bed of salt, salts, saltpeter, sulpher [...]. It was naucious Horrible. The ground in 
the valleys & marshes was Apparently one half of it composed of the saline floresance or salty 
substance of which this country abounds. Our Horses & Cattle being thirsty drank a little of the 
watter & quit it. Some of the cattle got badly miered in the marshes. The traiders infonned us 
these grounds were poison & would kill Cattle but ours did not drink much or feed long. We tied 
them up. 

The Hunters brought in one buffalo & one deer & 4 Antelope. 

20th Sunday We hitched up early in the morning without feeding?] or watering & left our 
encampment of death, poison waters, salt marshes &c & rode 3 miles to A good camp ground & 
sweet water & turned out & bated 2 hours & took breakfast. This camp ground was on the willow 


Pagel31 




spring branch about [3?] miles from the head. 

President Young wished me to go on about 15 miles & look up a Camp ground for the night, so I 
went forward. G. A. Smith went with me to the head of the willow springs. We there found A 
doctor belonging to a Missouri company who had been doc-toring A sick family in a company 
that was forward. He was of [the] opinion that the willow springs were still 10 miles ahead which 
was incorrect as he was then sitting at the head of them. Br Smith stoped with the Dr to wait for 
our waggons to come up & I rode on alone. 

After travling several miles Br John Brown came up with me & we rode on to gether over A 
sandy barren, sage country to a creek of good water containing some small fish about 10 miles 
west of the willow springs. We arived Here at half past 1 oclok. We turned out our Horses to bait 
& tarried untill 4 oclok watching for our company to come in sight. 

But we Could see no waggons but saw two horsman approaching us. We waved A small flag for 
them to Come to us. Supposed they were some of our company, but they were two Hunters Capt 
Smith & another man from the Mo company Carrying in Buffalo meat to there camp. They 
thought we were Indians in the distance & made off. I mounted my horse & put after them & 
soon overtook them, And made inquiries about our camp. They said they had not seen it, but had 
seen A company of about A dozen waggons coming by themselves. 

I then concluded our Camp had Stoped at the willow Springs, So Captain Smith who was the 
leader of the Mo Company invited us to go on & Camp with them for the night As they did not 
expect to go but a few miles further than the creek we were now on. 

As it was 5 oclok & we could see 5 miles on the road back & no waggons in sight I concluded 
our company would not Come on & if they should they would go no further than the Creek so we 
accepted Capt Smith proposal & went on with him to spend the night with his Camp. 

But instead of his going but little distance he continued on mile after mile, & could neither find 
feed or water except the salt & Alkalie ponds & lakes untill we struck the sweet water river at 
Indipendance Rock which is so noted in Freemonts Journal & other travellers which was about 
12 miles west of the Creek before spoken off. Their Oxen had tiered out having travled about 27 
miles & much of the road vary sandy & we had road about 30 miles And was quite weary. The 
sweet water is truly sweet to man & beast after travling through so much ground coverd with salt, 
pertash, And Alkilie water as is found on the way. We turned out our horses in good feed got 
supper which was Bacon, Buffalo, corn bread, coffee Milk &c then lay down upon the ground & 
spent the night under A tent with the Missourians but did not rest well. 

I found A great differance between the Missouri emigrant companies & our own. For while the 
men, women & children were all Cursing, swaring, quarell-ing, scolding finding fault with each 
other & other Companies, there was nothing of the kind allowed or practiced in our own camp. 

But to return to our camp I will say At a late hour they came up to the Creek that we left back 12 


Page 132 




miles, & grass being poor continued on 4 miles west of the creek & camped for the night. They 
travled 20 miles while I travled 30 miles. 30 miles. 

The camp not finding me at the creek nor hearing from me at all felt some Alarmed lest I was 
lost, or got into trouble with the Indians or some difficulty. They blowed their bugle & watched 
for me untill midnight & finally fired there Cannon while I was camped 10 miles from them not 
thinking that I was giving them any trouble. 

21st June 1847 {INDEPENDANCE ROCK) I arose early this morning took breakfast And in 
company with Br Brown we rode clear around Independance Rock. I should judge the distance to 
be about 3/4 of A mile. We exhamined the many names & lists of names of the trappers, traders, 
travellers, & eme-grants which are painted upon these rocks. Nearly all the names were put on 
with read, Black & yellow paint. Some had washed out & defaced. The greatest number was put 
on within A few Years. Some of them were quite plain of about 30 years standing. Nearly all the 
Companies pass by put some of their names on the rock. 

After going around and exhamining it we staked our horses And mounted the rock. I went 
forward & gained the highest point of the South end of the Rock which contains the names. After 
exhamining it I then went to the North end which is the highest part of the rock. Here is An 
opening or cavern that would contain 30 or 40 persons And A rock stands on the highest peak of 
about 3 tons wait. We got upon this rock & offered up our prayers according to the order of the 
priesthood. We prayed earnestly for the blessings of God to r[est?] upon President Young & his 
brethren the Twelve & all of the Pioneer Camp & the whole Camp of Israel & House of Israel, 
our wives & children, & relatives the Monnon Battalion, all the Churches Abroad And that the 
Lord would hasten the time of the fulfillment of his promises to Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, Joseph, 
Lehi, Nephi, Alma, & Moroni And all the sayings of the Lord concerning the building up of 
Zions in the last days And Avenging the blood of the Prophets. And while offering up our 
prayers the spirit of the Lord desended upon us and we truly felt to rejoice. 

And while we were attending to our prayers the Missourians was burying A woman A little 
distance from the rock by the name of Rachel Morgan 25 years of Age being the third one of the 
family buried on the road. They were supposed to be poisoned by cooking in new Copper 
vessels. 

After surveying the rock what we wished we again desended to the ground. I was the first Latter 
Day Saint that ever went onto that Rock or offered up prayers according to the order of the 
Priesthood. 

We had A view of our Camp from this rock And expected they would noon there. So we 
mounted our horses & concluded to examine the country in the regions round about. We rode to 
the North East about 5 miles. Went to the top of a high bluff And saw the camp in motion. We 
then rode to the foot of the Mountain to the N.W. & followed under the foot of the mountain All 
of the way to the Devils gate through which the sweet water runs. 


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While taking this circuitous rout we passed A salt lake Covering about 50 acres of Ground. We 
spent but few minutes at the Devils gate at this time & Hurried on back to the Rock as our camp 
had come up. 

But before we could get to them they had camped half a mile east of the Rock. I met Br Young 
going up to the Rock. I related to him my travels since I left the camp. He asked me to go back 
with him to the rock, So I turned out my horse having rode all of 20 miles during the forenoon 
exhamining bare rugged rocks & barren grounds, & Salt ponds &c And I returned with President 
Young W Richards G. A Smith & others & we again ascended the rock together & spent about 
half an hour upon it & returned to Camp mounted our horses & rode to the Devils gate which is 
the name of the channel through the Mountain through which the sweet waters run. 

It is [4/5?] miles from Indipendance Rock & while Approaching this place from the rock As is 
the case while approaching the foot of any mountain through this country A person is greatly 
decieved in the distance for while An object appears but a mile Ahead of you you will have to 
ride 5 or 6 before you can reach it. 

We rode as far as we could into the gate hitched our horses & walked into about the centre of the 
cavern. This opening or Devils gate is 100 feet high. Perpendicular Rocks 120 feet wide & 50 
rods long & the water rushes through it with A roar. The rocks are composed [of] coarse grey 
granite with A vein of Black trap rock runing through it. We spent about half an hour visiting this 
place then had to back out & ride around it on the south side. Some of the footman walked over 
the top of it. 

We camped for the night on the bank of the sweet water About one mile west of the Devils gate 
the camp having travled during the day 15 1/4 miles And I 30 miles. Distance to guide board was 
put up at the gate saying it was 175 1/4 miles from the Fort Laramie, & 50 1/4 from the ford or 
ferry of the Platt River. /1 5 1/4 30 miles./ 

22d We travled 10 miles & nooned. Br Lorenzo Young broke An Axeltree of his waggon which 
detained the camp some. Two more Missouri companies overtook us at noon. The camp started 
on & Br Young, Benson Little & myself went back to meet Lorenzo & help him get up his 
waggon & we were behind all the Afternoon. A company that arived at noon informed us that A 
man was drowned At the ferry After we left in trying to swim his Horses across & they had not 
found his body when they left. 

1 women also got sume Alanned At the Independ-ance Rock by A large griselly bear. They 
stoped to put their names of the rock & the Company left them. They started to follow on. One 
man was on foot & the other on a horse & were met in the road by A griselly bear who made A 
tract 10 inch long. They had no weapons not even a knife. The Bear sat up & looked at them A 
few moments & walked off & they came Along. The griselly bear are more Apt to attack men 
than any other kind. 


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We travled in the Afternoon 10 3/4 miles & camped at the foot of A mound about 200 feet high 
on the bank of the Sweat water. Br Kimball & myself went to the top of it & looked down upon 
the camp & it look heavenly. We offered up our prayers & the spirit of the Lord rested upon us. 
We descended again to the Camp. The moon shone beautiful. During the evening the brethren 
put in A new Axeltree into Br Lorenzo's waggon. Distance of the day 20 3/4 miles. 

23d We travled in the forenoon 8 1/2 miles & nooned by the Sweet water with the mountains 
piled up near by us. Our road to day has been through A level, sandy, barren sage region for A 
mountain Country. We travled in the Afternoon 8 1/2 miles & camped on the bank of the 
Sweetwater whare the road leaves it for about [,]0 miles across the sandy sage plains without 
water or feed. We had excellent grass for our camp at night. We Are in plain view of the Rocky 
Mountains at the pass & beyound. We had A vary sandy draging road all day. Whole distance 17 
miles. 

24th We travled to day 5 miles & came to the frozen or Lee spring and stoped And exhamined it 
& found the spring to be strongly impregnated with Sulpher. So much so it Could not be drank. 
The water would boil up out of A peace of Bog ground. Yet all around it it was so cold that After 
removing the turf about 6 inch A solid body of Ice was found about 18 inches thick. Some of it 
we cut up with Axes & spades. Near this was small ponds of water salt & saltpeter & sulpher & 
pertash seemed to be in the body of the water. Pure pertash was found in such quantities on the 
edges of these waters that the brethren gatherd pail fulls of it [to] raise bread with. Others would 
fill their Cups with Salt so pure from other mixtures that they used it. 

We travled from this place 12 3/4 miles & camped upon the bank of the Sweet water two days 18 
miles from one foot of the pass. 3 Companies Camped near us to night. This is the last time we 
shall see the sweet water on this Journey. We did not bait to day but camped at 4 oclok. Whole 
distance of the day 17 3/4 miles. 

Br Youngs team run away with A waggon. I cought them by the bit Just as they were about to 
plunge into the stream. 

Soon after we camped Br Holman was driving up the [-] with his gun in his hand. He went to 
punch a Horse with the musel of his gun. The lock Caught in his cloths & discharged into the 
best Horse there was in camp owned by president Young called his John Horse. He lived A few 
hours & died. There are many Accidents happen in that way by caring loaded guns with caps 
upon their tubes. 

25th We travled 8 3/4 miles & nooned upon A branch of the sweet water in as good grass As we 
have had on the way. Early in the Afternoon we began to ascend the [high? jest & longest Hill 
that we have passed over on the Journey. We travled about 5 miles before [we] reached the top. 
On the way up the brethren found snow Banks 20 or 30 rods long from 5 to 10 feet deep about 
1/4 of a mile from the road. They brought some to me & I ate some. 


Pagel35 




The road was vary rocky a part of the way over the Hills. We passed by 3 Mo camps who had 
passed by us. We travled in the Afternon 1 1 1/2 miles & camped for the night on A small branch 
of the sweet water. The Chain of the wind River mountain seemed quite near us & covered with 
vast quantities of Snow & we are so near the top of the mountains & surrounded with snow that 
the air feels like winter. 

Whole distance of one day 20 1/4 mils. Our teams fed upon white Clover to night. We are nearly 
at the head of the sweet water. 

26th We Started this morning at 8 oclok & travled untill 1 oclok & nooned again on the branch 
of the Sweet. Much larger than [the] original Stream in consequence of the melting of the vast 
body of Snow on the wind river range & the Hills that surround us. The watter run into many of 
our waggons, whare we camped at noon there was A large quantity of strabury vines in bloom & 
white Clover. 

We travled in the forenoon 1 1 miles & in the Afternoon 7 3/4 miles & camped Again upon the 
branch of the sweet water that we nooned upon. We camped opposit the table rock & near the 
summit of the South pass or dividing ridge And I was quite asstonished at the road & country to 
day considering that we were crossing what is called the South pass of the rocky mountains. It 
was the best road we had had for many days & had it not have been for the wind river range of 
mountains full in view on our right & the table coverd with eternal snow, & some snow ha nk s 10 
feet deep by the side of the road as we passed along & the table rock on the left I should have 
thought myself traveling over the beautiful prairies of Illinois & Missouri except the country was 
coverd with more sage that prairie grass the road for many miles & Also the valley or plain of 
beautiful grass lying North of table rock was perfectly strewn with vary handsom Cornelian 
stones. I saw more in one hour this evening than I ever saw during my whole life either in the 
rude state or polished & set in breast pins in all the Jewellers shops I ever saw in my travels in 
the world from the sice of a goose egg to A pea. Distance of the day 18 3/4. 

Elders Kimball Pratt G. A. Smith & Brown continued on to take in observations with the 
Barrom-eter on the dividing ridge & they continued on to the waters of the green river 7 miles 
from us that run into the pacific while we were on the Sweet water that runs into the Atlantic; 
they supposed we should come on to them And As they did not return several of us mounted our 
Horses to go in search of them. Soon After we started we met Br Kimball on his return after us. 
He infonned us that the Brethren were camped with about one dozen men from Oregon on their 
way, to the States & they would stay together over night. 

* During our travels to day I walked most of the way with Professors Pratt, & Carrington And 
our conversation turned upon the subject of the original fonnation of God, Angels, men, & 
Devils the beget-ting of Spirits in the eternal world, & who by, the begetting of Children on the 
earth, the Death of men & children & the resurrection of All. Each one gave his views, opinions, 
& reasoning & many interesting remarks were truly made And Any person who should chance to 
read these lines I wish them to understand that the Ideas given upon these points were not given 


Page 136 




as doctrin but opinion untill sum thing better should present itself or be decided by revelation. 

One of the most important Items If true was presented by Professor Pratt upon A Subject that 
Heretofore has been entirely out of the reach of All mankind from the days of Adam to the 
present time As far as is revealed to us. It was upon the subject of the original formation of the 
first God. We all admitted in the first place that which we believed to be an important truth ie the 
eternal formation of matter spirit, intelligence in some form or other. We also Agreed in the 
opinion that Neither God nor man Always had from all eternity the same formation that they now 
have but did exhist in some fonn for if we Admitted the fact that one being exhisted in the 
present fonn all might have exhisted in the same fonn as well as one. 

Then the question arose how did God recieve his present formation? The Answer given by 
Professor Pratt was sumthing in the following language: 

He sayes I throw out my Ideas not as doctrin but for you to look at. You know when A Chemist 
goes to work to Analize or try new experiments they often have to try many times before they put 
a thing perfect & take certain processes which are unnecessary and are afterward laid aside And 
pursue the most perfect Course that can be [pursujed. It may reasonably have been the case with 
the first being [fonnjed which may be Called God. As eternity was filled as it were with particles 
of intelligence who had there Agency, two of these particles in process of time might have joined 
their interest together exchanged ideas found by persueing this course that they gained [double?] 
strength to what one particle of intelligence would have & afterwards were joined by other 
particles & continued untill they formed A combination or body though through a long process. 

Yet they had power over other intelligences in consequence of their combination, organization & 
strength And in process of time this being body or God seeing the the Advantage of such an 
organization desires company or A companion And Having some experiance goes to work & 
organizes other beings by prevailing intelligences to come to gether & may form sumthing better 
than at the first. And After trials of this kind & the most perfect way sought ought it was found to 
be the most expeditious & best way to recieve there formations or bodies either spiritual or 
temporal through a womb. 

June 27th 1847 Three years ago this day the Prophets Joseph and Hyrum Smith were martered. 
Though it was Sunday morning we Harnessed up our teams & drove 6 miles to the place whare 
Brs Pratt & Smith Camped in Company with Mr Harris who has been A traider & trapper in the 
rocky mountains & travled through Oregon to Calafomia 25 years. We found him to be a man of 
much experience & knowledge & acquaintance with the Country. He brought A file of Oregon 
Papers & one Published by S Brannon of Cala-fomia. Many of us had much conversation with 
him about the Country. He spoke unfavorable of the Salt Lake Country for a settlement but spoke 
of other places not far off that were good: 

He said we generally could go through the pass as late as November but should we get blocked in 
with snow (we would find A small stream of water 4 or 5 miles from the Devils gate near 
Independance rock. This stream is 5 miles west of the gate. Follow that up A short distance & it 


Page 137 




would lead to A road that Crosses it to the west which would lead top through A large plain 
following to the mountains whare there is but little snow. When you come to the pass or Hill get 
onto some of them & you will see A large bute. Leave it to the [ ] Hand & follow down [ ] 

And it will lead into the open valleys. See * below. [Asterisk is Woodruffs .] 

It is 275 1/2 miles from fort Laramie to the South pass. 

At 9 oclok this morning I passed the dividing ridge that seperates the dividing waters of the 
Atlantic And pacific. We Camped at noon on muddy creek the waters of which run into the green 
river & the pacific. I drank its waters for the first time in my life that I tasted of waters runing 
into the pacific. We had a warm dusty day. I conversed considerable with Mr Harris about the 
country. We camped at night upon dry Sandy. Whole distance 15 1/4 mil. 

* [Asterisk is Woodruffs .] 3 miles above the gate look to the South. You will see an open pass 
in the Mountains. Go through that & let your Course be west till you top the Hill out of the great 
plain. Then look to the south. You will see a square bute. Leave that to the left. Go on & cross 
the green River. Then let your Course be west to Bridgers Fort; (And I think) He said we should 
go by blacks fork. 

28th We Parted with Major Harris After doing some traiding with him. He promised to meet us 
Again on bear River. We travled to little Sanday & nooned. The stream was high. In the 
Afternoon we travled 2 miles & met Mr Bridger of the fort on the way with two other men going 
to fort Laramie. He was expecting us & was to have an interview with President Young & the 
Twelve And also we wished to have an interview with Him. So we immediately turn onto the 
creek we nooned on & camped for the right & Mr Bridger & his men Camped with us. 

We met in Council & spent some hours in conversations. We found him to have been a great 
traveller And A great knowledge of nearly all Oregon & Calafornia the Mountains, lakes, Rivers, 
Brooks, springs, valleys mines, Creeks, &c if what He told us was true, He knew of gold, silver, 
copper, lead Coal Iron, Sulpher & Saltpeter mines. 

He spoke more Highly of the great Salt Lake for a settlement than Major Harris did. That it was 
his [-] & if this people settled in it He wanted to settle with them. There was but one thing that 
Could operate against it becoming A great grain country & that would be frost. He did not know 
but the frost would effect the corn. He Said there was A spring at the end of the Salt Lake that 
produced both Hot & cold fresh water, & Hot & Cold Salt water out of the same Hole or spring, 
& formed A large body of verdegreece below which the Indians get to paint skins, Arrors &c. He 
informed us whare to find A mine of silver & lead ore on big timber Creek. 

We conversed about A great variety of things. He said he was Ashamed of the Maps of Freemont 
for He knew nothing about the Country, ownly the plain travled road, that He Could Correct all 
the maps that had been put out about the western world. He Said if we wanted any of his services 
to let him know. The American fir Company had paid him $2,000 dollars per year while in their 
employ. 


Pagel38 




He spent the time Conversing untill 10 oclok. We then retired to bed. Several of the brethren 
bought dressed deer skin shirts & pants of [him]. Then they would swap An outside dress for one 
Hickory or Checked shirt. 

We had good grass & water & plenty of musketoes to night. Dis 15. 

29th We parted this morning with Mr Bridger who remarked that it would not be prudent to bring 
A great population into the bason untill we ascertained whether grain would grow or not. 

We travled on to big Sandy 8 miles & nooned. It was A vary Hot day. These streams are now up 
but during Summer they become entirely dry. We nooned two hours & then drove onto the bank 
of the big Sandy 15 3/4/ miles & camped for the night. This camp ground is the last time we meet 
with Big Sandy 8 miles east of the ferry on green River. The road to day, As has been the case 
through A great portion of this Country has been over A Hot Sandy desert with scearsly any 
green thing except the various species of the wild sage from 6 inches to 8 feet high with stocks 
from 1/4 of an inch to 4 inches in diameter. We have to use it for firewood & it makes quit a 
good Substitute. 

O. P. Rockwell & myself went forward to pick out a camp ground. We was Ahead about 6 miles 
of the Camp when we found one which was the first place we Could get grass for 15 miles from 
whare we nooned. It made the longest days journey we had made on the whole route. 

I returned to meet the camp about 4 miles & was infonned that Br Fowler was vary sick & in my 
carriage I went back & met him & found him in great distress in his head, back, & bones through 
out. He Complained bitterly of the jar of the waggon, And finally was out of his head & became 
wild. I did not get into camp untill near 9 oclok. I then Commenced doctoring him with 
composition, tea, pills &c & He soon began to get better & had a comfortable nights rest. 

Distance of the day 23 3/4. 

30th Br Fowler was some better this morning. Seemed to be threatened with the Ague. Kept his 
bed & rode in the waggon. We travled 8 miles & camped upon the bank of the green river at the 
ferry & the Afternoon was spent in building A Raft. As the river was high it could not be Crossed 
ownly upon rafts or boats. It was 275 1/2 miles from the fort Laramie to the South pass of the 
rocky mountains. 

During the afternoon the Arival of Elder Samuel S Brannan at the bay of San Francisco was 
Anounced in camp. We were truly glad to meet with him that we might hear from him & the 
Saints who were with him. He gave us an account of there landing their travels & the present 
settlement which was 200 miles up the river from the [bay?]. They were putting in wheat & 
preparing for us. He had Come all the way with ownly two men to meet with us. The Saints were 
settelled with & the Mormon Battalion was 400 miles from him. He said Br Pratt was doing well. 
The inhabitants of one whole Island numbering 3,000 Had imbraced the faith. He told us many 
interesting things & we were truly glad to see him. Distance of the day 8 m. 


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July 

1st We tried this morning to swim our cattle over the river but had great difficulty in it. About 15 
persons have been taken sick within A few days with fever Ague &c which is said to be Common 
to emegrants coming from the snowy mountains to the plains or valleys whare it is Hot wether. 

Br Fowler is better to day. Some others of the sick are better some are worse. Each division made 
A good raft yesterday. Are lanched this morning. 

Brother Brannon Brought A file of his papers that He is publishing with him to camp & A letter 
to Br Fowler from his wife. He also infonned us that Captain Sutter was vary friendly & wished 
us to come & Settel near him. He informed us that He saw more timber on green River whare we 
now are than He had seen on His route since He left Calafornia. He came through A part of 
Oregon. We are now in Calafornia. 

We got over 10 waggons to day among others my own. So we camped over night on the South 
bank of the green river. 

2d Two rafts have been runing through the day & most of the waggons have been brought over. 
We swam our Horses & cattle over this morning though with some difficulty. We held A council 
in the Afternoon with the Twelve & 4 men was Appointed to return & meet the camp & pilote 
them up. Br Brannan was with the council. We each one wrote our views Concerning the council 
to be given to the Camp. 

ft is an exeeding hot day, And both man & beast are much annoyed with musketoes. Several 
salmon trout were Caught at the mouth of a slue on green river near the ferry one weighing 7 1/4 
lbs. 

Several of the brethren gatherd A quantity of Salaratus from the Salaratus bedes about 3 miles 
east of the indipendance rock near the road & thought it answered as good A purpose As the 
manufactured article for raising bread & family purposes. 

3d A light sprinkle of rain, cool, Cloudy & High winds, so they could not finish ferrying. The 
pilots Are preparing to start back to meet the companies. 1 wrote A letter by them to Aphek 
Woodruff A O. Smoot } And John Benbow. The wind laid & we finished ferrying in the evening 
& the whole camp moved 3 miles & camped. A guide board was put up A mile from the ferry 
saying 340 mile from Fort Laramie. 

Sunday fndependance July 4th 1847. A meeting was held last evening & the 4 men were 
Appointed as pilots to go back & meet the company Were called upon to start this morning to go 
on their journey. 1 accompanied Presidents Young Kimball Richards & others to the ferry to put 
them across the river & when we arived at the river we saw 13 Horsman on the opposite bank 
with there baggage on one of our rafts. But to our great joy who should they be but our Brethren 
belonging to the Monnon Battalion who volunteered into the service of the U.S.A. one year ago 
this month & belonged to Capt Browns Detachment who had been at Pueblo through the winter. 


Page 140 




Br A Lyman who we sent unto them had reached them & informed them whare we are & the 
whole detachment of 140 of the brethren were within 7 days drive of us. 

We drew up the raft & crossed them all over but one who returned with our pilots to meet the 
company. When we met it was truly A Harty greeting & shaking of hands. They accompanied us 
into camp and all were glad to meet. This small detachment had come on to meet some Hors 
thieves who had Stolen about a dozen horses from them. They had overtaken them & got all but 
one. He had gone on to Bridgers fort & they calculated to follow him & get their Horse. They 
spent the night in camp with us. Among the number of those who died was Mervin Blanchard 
who drove teams for me last summer. 

But I must stop writing. The Musketoes have filled my carriage like A Cloud And have fallen 
upon me as though they intend to devour me. I never saw that insect more troublesome than in 
certain places in this Country. Several traiders passed by our camp just at night. 

5th We left the green river (which are the head waters of the Coloradoe,) & drover 20 miles & 
camped on blacks fork. There is neither feed or water since we left the green river to this place 
but is similar to the last 200 miles. A sandy desert coverd with sage, but we find good grass on 
the Streams. Most of the day was vary Hot & dusty yet towards night we saw A hard shower of 
rain. Some wind towards the mountains. A few drops reached us in this country. It rains about 
the mountains but not much in the valleys & plains. Distance of the day 20 miles. 

6th A warm windy dusty day. Man & beast Harnesses & waggons were all coverd with dust. We 
Crossed black fork at 9 oclok, muddy fork at 10 & Camped on the west side of Hams fork at 5 
oclok. We did not noon at all to day. Whole distance of the day 18 miles. 

The sick in Camp are most universally getting better. The face of the country is the same to day 
as usual Barren, Sand & Sage, with occasionaly A sprinkling of flowers some vary beautiful. The 
Country during the last weeks drive has Appeared vary destitute of game. None to be seen except 
occasionally An Antilope. One was killed yesterday. 

7th We Crossed hams fork And drove to Fort Bridger & in the region of the fort before we got 
onto our Camping ground we Crossed more than a dozen trout Brooks. The water run swift but 
clear. Hard, cold gravelly bottoms. The brethren Cought several brook trout the first I had seen 
since I left England. The whole region of Country all up & down these streams were coverd with 
grass knee deep. 10 of battalion found A Hors thief at the fort who had assisted in Stealing 10 of 
their Horses. They had got all but two, & the man said they had gone to Oregon. We saw About 
A dozen traiders lodges about the fort. The fort was merly A small traiding post. One duilding 
not large. Distance of the day 17 3/4 miles. 

8th * The Calculation was to spend the day at the fort. As soon as I got my breakfast I riged up 
my trout rod that I had brought with me from Liverpool, fixed my reel, line, & Artificial fly & 
went to one of the brooks close by Camp to try my luck catching trout. The man at the fort said 
there were but vary few trout in the streams, And a good many of the brethren were already at the 


Pagel41 




creeks with their Rods & lines trying their skill baiting with fresh meat & grass hoppers, but no 
one seemed to ketch any. I went & flung my fly onto the [-] And it being the first time that I ever 
tried the Artificial fly in America, or ever saw it tried, I watched it as it floated upon the water 
with as much intens interest As Franklin did his kite when he tried to draw lightning from the 
skies. And as Franklin recieved great Joy when he saw electricity or lightning descend on his kite 
string in like manner was I highly gratifyed when I saw the nimble trout dart my fly hook himself 
& run away with the line but I soon worried him out & drew him to shore & I fished two or three 
hours including morning & evening & I cought twelve in all And About one half of them would 
weigh abought 3/4 of a pound each while All the rest of the camp did not ketch during the day 3 
lbs of trout in all which was proof positive to me that the Artificial fly is far the best thing now 
known to fish trout with. 

In the Afternoon I went to Bridgers House & traided off my flint lock rifle for four Buffalo robes. 
The robes were large & nice well taned or dressed. He Called the gun $20 & the robes $5 each. 
The Articles generally at Bridgers fort were at least one third or one half higher than at any other 
traiding post in America that I ever saw. His robes were $5 buck skin shirts $6 pants $6 dressed 
skins $3 &c while At fort hall Doe skins 50 ors Buck 75 Elk $1 shirts & Pants $1.50, Robes $2 
&c. 

Professor Pratt took observations At fort Brid-ger in Lat 41°19T3". Highth above the sea 6,665 
feet. 

9th I arose this morning quit unwell. Felt threatend with the camp fever. Yet I mounted my horse 
And rode untill 10 oclok. Before Starting however I was Called upon to Administer to Br Carter 
who was taken with the fever. There Are new Cases evry day in Camp. I took to my bed at 10 
oclok with distressing pain in my head back joints bones, marrow & all through the system 
Attended with Cold Chills & hot flashes through the body, And we travled 13 miles over as bad 
road as we had had on the journey which makes it exeeding painful to the sick. The day seemed 
exeeding long to me. When we stoped at night I took composition cayeene And A dose of 
vegitable pill, And I had A better nights rest than I expected. Distance of the day 13. 

10th I felt quite feeble this morning but felt that my fever was broke. We travled up & down 
some of the steepest Hills we have found on the Journey & the largest. We passed through A 
valey 6 miles long grass knee deep strong mineral springs. Any amount of Copper, lead, & coal, 
& lime & great stone on each side of the valley. It is an 18 mile drive without water that can be 
drank. There are a number of springs in the valley but they run through mineral beds And are not 
good to drink. We camped for the night 1 1/2 miles from bear River by the best spring of water 
we had found on the route & A small stream near by. An Indian Came from Bridgers fort & 
travled with us & Camped with us for the night. 

Camp fires were discoverd about 3 miles from our camp. G.A.S & others went over to them And 
found it to be Mr Miles Goodyier & several others with him. Some were from Calafornia going 
back to the States. Mr Goodyier goes by the name of Miles though it is his Christian name. He 


Page 142 




has setled at the Salt lake. Has A garding & vegitation of all kinds He says doing well. He spoke 
of 3 rodes to the Lake & talked about the Country. The Missourian that was going to the States 
came through the 80 miles drive without water or grass. Had to leave 5 of his mules on the road. 
Could not get any through. This is on the Calafomia road. 

The subject was brought up again concerning the emigrant Company who perished in the 
Mountains last winter. They were mostly from Independance & Clay County Missouri And were 
A mob company & threatned to drive out the mormons that were in Calafomia & started for 
Calafomia with that spirit in there hearts. But it seemed as though they were ripe for Judgment. 
The snows fell upon them 1 8 feet deep on a level & they died & eat up each other. About 40 
persons parished & were mostly eat up by those who survived them. Mrs L. Murphy of Tenn 
whom I Baptized while on a mishion in that Country but since Apostitlzed & joined the mob was 
in the company died or was killed & eat up. Her bones sawed to peaces for her branes & marrow 
& left stre[we?]d upon the ground. 

Distance of the day 18 miles. Whole distance from Bridgers fort to Bear River 32 1/2 miles. 

Br Luce was taken vary sick this Afternoon. There are new cases daily. It is vary severe but does 
not generally last the brethren more than 2 or 3 days. Three griselly bear were seen by the 
brethren to day. Some were within A few rods of them dut they made of & did not give battle 
which they are more Apt to do than any other bear. 

1 1th Sunday We spent the day in Camp. Some of the brethren rode out to seek out the road & 
found A mineral tar spring. It mn pure tar or substance that looked like tar quite as thick & black. 
Some thought it was oil. It had A strong smell & was 15 miles south of our camp. Several of the 
brethren thought of getting it to tar waggons with. 

12*1 started early in the morning & rode to bear River And for the first time I saw the long 
looked for Bear River valley. Yet the spot whare we stuck it was nothing vary interesting. There 
was Considerable grass in the valley & some timber & thick bushes on the bank of the river. My 
object in visiting the river before the Camp was to try my luck in ketching trout as it was A 
stream famed for Containing that kind of fish. It was Cloudy & cool but I found it A difficult 
stream to fish in with the fly in consequence of the thick underbrush. I fished several hours & had 
all sorts of luck good bad and indiferent. 

I some of the time would fish half an hour & Could not start a fish. Then I would find an eddy 
with 3 or 4 trout in it & they would jump at the hooks as though there was A bushel of trout it the 
hole. And in one instance I caught two at a time. I fished some of the time on horsback riding in 
the middle of the stream which was about 3 rods wide & when I Could not desend longer in the 
stream for swift & deep water I would have to plunge my horse through the bear thickets which 
was hard work to penetrate. And I knew not at what moment I would have A griselly bear upon 
my back or An Indian Arrow in my side for I was in danger of both. Some of the time I would 
have A dozen bites at my hook in one & nearly drown 3 or 4 trout & not get one. I finally wound 
up my fishing & started after the camp Having Caught [-] trout in all. 


Pagel43 




The Camp travled 9 miles & nooned in a valley. I found President Young vary sick with the 
fever. The camp started on But President Young being so sick concluded not to move from whare 
He was. Brs Kimball, Benson, Rockwood & others stoped with him with there waggons. We 
drove without any road over Hills & dales. Had to take our own road as we went along. 

We camped at night in Mailers valley by the side of Reddings Cave. This Cave is about 20 feet 
wide at its mouth 7 feet high & 30 feet long at the back part of the cave Are large wolf dens or 
other Animals. The cave is composed of light Coulored sand stone vary soft. Many of us cut our 
names in it. There are many curious rocks that surround it. We passed by A mountain of pudding 
stone composed of gravel sand & cement &c. Its spires were reaching up like the pyramids of 
Egypt. The valleys begin to grow more fertile & the Air more pacific than in the wind River 
Country. 

Professor Pratt informed me that his Baromet-rical * observation made the South pass to be 
7,085 feet above the level of the sea. Also it was 280 miles from [Corsert?]. 16 3/4 miles the 
distance of the day. 

13th I arose quite unwell this morning. Sore throat, mouth, lips &c. Several Brethren went to 
meet President Young. The Camp lay still waiting for him to Come up. Br Kimball came to camp 
at noon And A Council was called of the whole Camp & Resolved that O Pratt take A company 
of about 20 waggons & 40 men & go on to the canion make the rode as they go & if they Could 
not [get?] through the Canion to find Smiths Cut off & make a road over the mountain that we 
need not be hindred when we come along. There was 23 waggons in all & started At 1 oclok. 

The Hunters brought in 12 Antelope /yesterday/ & to day 10. We have found but little game for 
many days untill yesterday & to day. 

President Young is better to day but will not move untill to morrow. In the Afternoon Elder 
Richards & myself walked out to search for springs or water & talked over old times my mishion 
to Fox Islands And his labours in Preston & our mishions in England together. 

14th I Rode in the fore part of the day back 7 miles to visit Br Young Dr Richards G A Smith the 
evening before went out together & Prayed before the Lord for the Recovery of Br Young & we 
felt a testimony that He would begin to recover from that hour. And when I arived whare he was I 
found him much better in health & quite Cheerful, but I found Br Rockwood much the sickest 
man that had been in camp. I tarried with them untill near night Assisting the sick & then 
returned back to our encampment. Trav-led { 14 mil}. 

During the evening we also went out & Prayed for Br Rockwood. Felt Convinced we should find 
him better in the morning. 

15th I Started early in the morning with my Carriage & Horses after President Young & Br 
Rockwood. I was two hours driving 9 miles to their Camp. Made up the bed An the waggon & 
took them both in. I found them much better in health & they thought they Could ride As my 


Page 144 




Carriage was the easiest veicle in camp. So all the waggons started & drove to our Camp & the 
sick seemed refreshed by their ride. And After making A short halt the whole camp drove 4 1/2 
miles further & we camped for the night. Drove {8 1/2 m} And [-] Camped. 

161 took Brs Young & Rockwood into my Carriage & dr[ove?] on with the Camp 6 1/2 miles & 
nooned in the same valley which we named Mathews vale. We travled in the Afternoon 9 1/2 
miles with perpendicular Rocks on one side & steep Bluffs on the other thousands of feet high. 
We had a bad road for the sick to travel in & wearied Br Young out & He was sick at night. 

For several miles on the North side of the Road we discoverd A dark substance Runing out of the 
holes of the Rocks which Congeled. It had some the Appearance of gum myrr or opeum ownly it 
was hard & bitter As Allows. We could discover it for 10 miles in places along on the rocks. 
Distance of the day 16m. 

I went to webers fork 1 miles from our encampment & Cought one trout for Br Young. 

17th Br Young is vary Poorly this morning. 9 of our horses lost among whum is two that Br 
Fowler drives. We started out & drive 3 miles on webers fork & camp. A number of trout was 
Caught by the Brethren some that would weigh A lb. Br Young was wors & could not Journey & 
we stoped. Camped for the day. The Horses were found 10 miles back. I fished with the fly & 
cought several trout. The Twelve with some others went out together & prayed in due form for 
Br Young & all the sick & had a good time. Distance 3 miles. 

18th /Sunday Spent the day Holding meeting./ 41 waggons went on this morning among whom 
was Dr Richards & G. A. Smith. 15 waggons remained with President [Young], Among the 
number was two of my own in company with H C Kimball E T Benson, & H Egan. I rode over 
the mountain called Pratts Pass with the company that went on & returned to camp. It was A Hot 
day. 

Several Brethren cought some trout that would weigh near two lbs each. I cought 2 with the fly 
but they did not seem to take it well in that stream. We moved our camp 2 miles. 2 m. The whole 
distance that I travled during the day 25 miles. 

During the evening I went onto A High hill with Brothers Kimball & Benson & had Prayers 
together & A good time. Conversed much upon the things of the Kingdom of God. 

19th We started early in the morning & rode with the President] 5 miles & stoped & took 
Breakfast. Br Youngs fever is still on him but He stood the morning ride well. I carried him in 
my Carriage. We are now travelling through Pratts Pass to avoid the Canion. We travled After 
the mornings Halt [-] miles over the worst road we have had on the Journey. The distance of the 
day was 14 miles 

20th Camped at night on A trout creek about 10 feet across. We found 3 waggons that had stoped 
on this creek in consequence [of] the sick. Brs. Sherwood Johnson & Dewey were so sick they 
could not Journey & we camped on the same ground with them. Sherwood & Johnson were 


Page 145 




Baptized for their sickness & I confirmed [them?]. 

Br Young stood the Journey well Considering the hard road but was quite weary come night. 
Several of the Brethren caught [some?] small trout in the streams we camped on. Br Fowler dish 
[ditched?] his waggon wheels & G. A. Smith who was in the company [dished?] two of his. 
Stoped & burned coal & set the tyre. This meant Pratt & Company was ownly 8 miles ahead of 
whare we camped. 

21st We set the tire on one wheel of Fowlers waggon. We remained in camp to day in 
Consequence of sickness. Brs Kimball Benson & Lorenzo Young went through the Canion of 
Ogdens fork which is the name of the Creek we camped on. The rout we are taking is [Reeds?] 
Pass which we have named Pratts Pass in consequence of his going on to make the road. 

It is A Hot day. The report is we have a rougher road on ahead than any thing we have met with. 
The country is vary mountainous rough & steep. Many of the springs we meet with on the way 
are saltish or mineral. The Stream we are on [is] Ogdens fork. In the Afternoon I waided the 
creek two miles & fished with the fly down to the mouth of the canion & caught 8 trout. Thare is 
none vary large in this part of the stream. 1/4 of a lb was as large as we caught. 

22d We travled 8 miles to day on Ogdens fork / Canyon Creek/ whare the Pratts Pass leaves the 
fork for good & tumes to the west. We crossed the creek eleven times in going 8 miles & the 
worst 8 miles we have had on the journey. 

Br Case smashed one of his hind waggon wheels to peaces & we had to wait 2 hours to bring his 
oxen up & continued the Journey a rowing the [ ] on a pole. I caught 2 trout in the creek while 

waiting. The sick stood the Journey better than we espected considering the road. 

23d We Left Ogdens fork / webber river East Canyon Creek/ & travled to the west 5 miles up Hill 
an exceding hard hill to clime. 5 miles brought us to the summit of the Hill. We then descended 
the Hill 6 miles through a thick timberd grove of Aspen & Spruce Balsom &c. The timber had 
been cut out of the road yet it was full of stumps & it kept evry teamster vary busy to dodge the 
stumps & not break his waggon. One man turned over his ox w[aggon] smashed the top all to a 
rock. There was two children in the waggon but they were not Hurt. The last 6 miles was as bad 
as any thing we had found. 

Having travled 5 miles up hill & 6 down total 1 1 miles we nooned by A splendid spring in A 
small Birch grove. We saw more timber during this half days travel than we had seen in a month, 
& the valley both ascending & descending was extremely fertile & coverd with vegitation even to 
the top of the Hills. 

At the spring whare [we] nooned we were met by Brothers Pack & Mathews from the forward 
camps. They brought A letter to us, & informed us it was ownly 10 miles to the valley of the Salt 
Lake or great basan & 14 to their Camp. They had explored the country as far as possible & had 
made Choice of a spot to put in seeds. They considered it the greatest greazing country in the 


Pagel46 




world but was destitute of timber as far as they had been. Several fine streams of fresh water 
cutting through the valley. 

After nooning we travled up another vary tedious Hill & down it into a valley & camped for the 
night, with Hills miles high on each side of us. I climbed to the top of one hill over 2 mil high. 
Was in a high state of perspiration when I reached the top of it. Whole distance of the day 15 mi. 

{*} JULY 24th 1847 This is an important day in the History of my life and the History of the 
Church of JESUS CHRIST of Latter Day Saints. On this important day after traveling] from our 
encampment 6 miles through the deep ravene, valley, ending with the canion through the last 
creek we came in full view of the great valley or Bason [of] the Salt Lake and land of promise 
held in reserve by the hand of GOD for a resting place for the Saints upon which A portion of the 
Zion of GOD will be built. 

We gazed with wonder and admiration upon the vast rich fertile valley which lay for about 25 
miles in length & 16 miles in wedth Clothed with the Heaviest garb of green vegitation in the 
midst of which lay a large lake of Salt water of [ ] miles in extent in which could be seen large 

Islands & mountains towering towards the Clouds also the glorious valley abounding with the 
best fresh water springs rivlets creeks & Brooks & Rivers of various sizes all of which gave 
animation to the sporting trout & other fish while the waters were wending there way into the 
great Salt lake. Our hearts were surely made glad after A Hard Journey from winter Quarters of 
1,200 miles through flats of Platt Rivers steeps of the Black Hills & the Rocky mountains And 
burning sands of the eternal Sage regions & willow swails & Rocky Canions & stubs & Stones, 
to gaze upon A valley of such vast extent entirely Surrounded with a perfect chain of everlasting 
hills & mountains Coverd with eternal snow with there inumerable peaks like Pyramids towering 
towards Heaven presenting at one view the grandest & most sublime seenery Probably that could 
be obtained on the globe. 

Thoughts of Pleasing meditations ran in rapid succession through our minds while we 
contemplated that not many years that the House of GOD would stand upon the top of the 
Mountains while the valleys would be converted into orchard, vineyard, gardings & fields by the 
inhabitants of zion & the Standard be unfurled for the nations to gather there to. 

President Young expressed his full satisfaction in the Appearance of the valley as A resting place 
for the Saints & was Amply repayed for his Journey. 

After gazing awhile upon the seenery we travled across the table land into the valley 4 miles to 
the encampment of our Brethren who had arived 2 days before. [-] they had pitched there 
encampment upon the bank of two small streams of pure water & had commenced plowing. Had 
broke about 5 acres of ground & commenced planting Potatoes. 

As soon As we were formed in the encampment before I took my dinner having 1/2 a bushel of 
potatoes I repaired to the ploughed field & planted my potatoes Hopeing with the blessings of 
God at least to save the Seed for another year. 


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The Brethren had darned up one of the creeks & dug a trench & by night nearly the whole ground 
was Irrigated with water. We found the ground vary dry. 

Towards evening in company with Brs Kimball Smith & Benson I rode several miles up the 
creek into the mountain to look for timber [-] country &c. There was A thunder Shower & it 
rained nearly over the whole rally & also it rained some the fore part of the night. We felt 
thankful for this As it was the general confederation?] that it did not rain in the valley during 
summer [days?]. 

July 25 Sunday This is the first Sunday that the Latter Day Saints ever spent in the great /salt 
Lake valley/ bason . We Washed Shaved & Cleaned up & met in the Circle of the encampment. 
Meeting was opened by the bishops & G A Smith Preached /the first sermon while standing upon 
the cannon/ An interesting discurse & was followed by H. C Kimball & E. T. Benson all of 
which spoke unto edification. An intimission of 2 Hours. 

Met again at 2 oclok. The Bishops broak bread to the Congregation & then Addressed the 
Brethren. Was followed by O Pratt & W Richards all of which expressed the gratitude of our 
hearts to our Heavenly Father for leading us to so goodly a land & exhorted the Brethren to 
Harken to Council do away with selfishness live humble & Keep the Commandment of God that 
we may prosper in the land. Several other Brethren also expressed their feelings & there was one 
universal feeling of Satisfaction with the valley. Evry man that spoke upon the subject said they 
were Joyfully disappointed that the whole appearance was Altogether better throughout the valley 
than they had Anticipated or even dreamed of. 

At the Close of the meeting President Young though feble Addressed [us] for A few moments 
And Informed the brethren * they must not work on Sunday that they would loose five times as 
much as they would gain by it, & they must not hunt or fish on that day. And there should not 
any man dwell among us who would not observe these rules. They might go & dwell whare they 
pleased but should not dwell with us. 

He said that no man should buy any land that come Here. That He had no land to sell neither 
should He buy any but evry man should [have?] his land measured of to him for City & fanning 
purposes what He could till. He might till it as he pleased but He should be industrious & take 
care of it. He also warned the Saints against keeping any thing that did not belong to them. That 
if they followed this course it would leek out & they would Stink in the nostrils of Jehovah 
Angels & the Saints & though they might live with the Saints & die with them they would be 
damned at last & go to Hell for they were thieves & nothing but burning through Hell would 
Clens them. He remarked there would be a meeting evry Sabbath in this place or whare ever we 
Stop. Council was also given to tie up our Horses at night. 

26th Monday The camp in general was busily ingaged in Plowing & Planting com & other Seeds. 
Ten men including the Twelve were appointed to go on an exploring expedition. I took President 


Page 148 




Young into my carriage & travled two miles towards the mountain & made Choice of a spot of 
ground for our garding with a small rivlet runing through it sufficient to irrigate it which I named 
guarding creek. 

We then returned to Camp & went North of the Camp about 5 miles & we all went onto the top 
of A high Peak in the edge of the Mountain which we considerd A good place to raise An ensign 
upon which we named ensign Peak or Hill. /I was the first person that Ascended this Hill./ 
Brother Young was vary weary in climing the Peak he being feble. We then desended to the flat. 
Started north to visit some hot sulpher springs but we returned two miles to get A drink of Cool 
water & then went back 4 miles to the springs. We found them vary warm but not hot. 3 or 4 of 
the springs isued green water & formed substance below that looked like verdigreese. 

After visiting them we returned to Camp quite weary. Brs Mathews & Brown returned to camp. 
Had Crossed the valley in the Narrowest place opposite the camp to the mountain on the west. 
Found the valley about 15 miles across. Passed over A river 4 miles from camp about 8 rods 
wide from which we saw sulpher hot springs and ensign Peak. We also had A good view of the 
salt lake through our glass & many rivers & creek runing through the valley. The whole distance 
of the day was 20 m. 

27th I took President Young in my Carriage & Started for an exploring expedition. Br A Lyman 
Came into Camp this morning & informed us that Browns detachment of the Battalion would be 
with us in about 2 days. Br Lyman with all of the twelve in camp with several other Brethren 
Started with us on our exploring expedition being 8 of the Twelve & 6 other Brethren among 
whom was Br Brannan from Francisco Bay being 14 of us in all. 

We started for the purpose of visiting the salt lake & mountain on the west of the valley. We 
travled 2 miles west from the Temple Block & Come to the Utah outlet of the Utah lake. We then 
travled /14/ miles to the foot of the Bluff or mountain on the west of the valley whare we found a 
fountain of fresh water. Some brackish. The land was not near as fertile on the west side of the 
valley as on the east And but little fresh water as far as we went while the east side of the valley 
is as well wat-tered as any land I ever saw. 

We took our dinner at the fresh water pool & then rode 6 miles to a large rock on the Shore of the 
Salt lake. We here made A Halt, And all went into the Salt water & we made up our minds at 
once that the great Salt lake ought to be added as the eighth wonder of the world. The watter was 
quite warm And was impregnated with as much salt as Could Possibly be dissolved in water. It 
was So strong that if A particle got into the eyes nose or mouth it would strangle & put one in 
pain. No person Could Possibly sink in it. A person would float & roll on the top of the water 
like A dry log & while standing to our waist in water we Could not get our knees to the bottom 
but would rise to the top like a cork. We found the most beautiful white Salt that I ever saw lying 
in bunches on the shore whare the water dryed away. The whole dody of the water will make at 
least 3 pints of the best quality of white salt to one gallon of water. 

After spending an hour at this place we rode south on the lake shore about 4 miles & then 


Page 149 




returned 10 miles to our place of nooning & Camped for the night. The whole distance of the day 
which I drove my carriage from Camp 40 mi. 

28th After having Camped all night in the open air we arose refreshed by sleep. 

I having lost my Carriage whip the evening before 4 miles back, I started in the morning on 
Horsback to go back after it. As I got near the place I discoverd two objects appear on A ridge 
before me About 1/2 a mile distant. I at first took them to be bears but after approaching a little 
nearer I discoverd about 20 objects appearing over the Hill. I soon saw that they were Indians 
And as I was unanned & over 3 mi from camp. I did not consider it prudent to go among them. I 
wheeled my Horse & started on my return in a slow trot. 

As soon as I Started back they called to me & one mounted his horse & came After me with all 
speed. When He got within 20 rods of me I stoped & met him. The rest followed on. I found 
them to be Utahs & wanted to trade. I informed him by signs that our Camp was near so he went 
on with me to camp. What we have seen as yet of the Utahs they appear friendly & not disposed 
to steal from [others] though they have A bad name from some of the mountaineers. He stoped in 
Camp awhile & wanted to smoke the pipe of peace but we soon started on & He waited for his 
company to come up. 

We travled about 10 miles south under the mountain on the west side of the valley. [One line 
illegible ] soil as on the east. We then turned our course & returned toward camp. 

We had to travel 20 miles across the vale to get to the ford of the Utah outlet. We here stoped eat 
& drank & returned to camp quite weary Having travled during the day about 30 miles. 

We saw on the west side of the valley about 75 or 100 mountain goats, sheep, Antilope &c in 
flocks playing about the Hills & valley. 

* * After we Arived in Camp President Young Called a Council of the quorum of the Twelve 
there being present B Young H. C. Kimball, O Pratt W Richards W. Woodruff G. A. Smith A 
Lyman & E T Benson. 

We walked from the north camp to about the centre between the two creeks when Prest. Young 
waved his hands & said here is the forty Acres for the Temple (we had conversed upon the 
subject of the location for the Temple previous to this) & the city can be laid out perfectly square 
North & South, east & west. It was then moved & carried that the Temple lot contain 40 Acres 
on the ground whare we stood. 

It was also moved & carried that the City be laid out into lots of 10 rods by 20 <[long?]> 
exclusive of the streets & into Blocks of 8 lots each, Being 10 acres in each block & one acre & a 
quarter in each lot. 

It was also moved & carried that each street be laid out 8 rods wide & that there be a side walk 
on each side 20 feet wide & that each House be built in the centre of the lot 20 feet from the front 


Page 150 




line that there might be A uniformity through out the City & President Young remarked that He 
wished but one house built upon A lot & they being in the centre if they took fire they would not 
burn up their neighbors. 

And if any man wants A Market to have it upon his own lot & not lay out publick grounds for 
market. And let every man Cultivate his own lot & set out evry kind of fruit & shade trees & 
beautify the City. 

It was Moved & carried that there be four public squares of 10 Acres each be laid of in various 
parts of the city for public grounds. This was in Lat 40°45’44". 

At 8 oclok the whole Camp Came together on the same ground & passed all of the above votes 
unanimously as they are recorded & when the business part of the meeting was closed President 
Young arose And addressed the assembly in a vary interest manner upon A variety of subjects. 

Previous to this the whole assembly voted that there be a committee to superintend the laying out 
the City & that the Twelve be that Committee & that they manage the whole Affair. 

President Young in his address to the Saints remarked that He was determined to have order in 
all things & righteousness Should be practized in this land. That we had come here according to 
the direction & council of Br Joseph Smith before his death & that He would Still have been 
alive if the Twelve had been in Nauvoo when He recrossed the river from Montrose to Nauvoo. 

He spoke of the saints being driven from place to Place, And Said the ownly way Boggs, Clark, 
Lucas Benton & all the leaders of the mob could have been saved in the day of the Lord Jesus 
would have been to have come forward voluntarily & let their heads been cut off & let their 
blood run upon the ground & gone up as A smokeing incens before the heavens as an antonement 
but now they will be eternally damned. 

Also said all the govornors & Presidents of the U.S.A Had rejected all our petitions from first to 
last. That when the Saints were driven from Illinois & perrish as it were on the Prairies then 
President Polk sends for a draft oj 500 men to go into the Army. What for? That they might be 
wasted [one line of text illegible ] entirely wasted away as A people. 

If the Brethren had not gone they would have made war upon us & the Gov of Mo would have 
been ordered not to have let us Cross the Missouri & the raising of the Battalion was our 
temporal Salvation at the time & said Polk would be damned for this act & that He with many ol 
the govennent men had a hand in the death of Joseph & Hyram & that they should be damned for 
these things & if they ever sent any men to interfere with us here they shall have there throats cut 
& sent to Hell. And with uplifted hand to Heaven swore by the Gods of Eternity that He would 
never cease His exhertion while He lived to make every preperation & avenge the blood of the 
Prophets & Saints. That He intended to have evry hole & corner from the Bay of Francisco to 
Hudson bay known to us And that our people would be connected with every tribe of Indians 
throughout America & that our people would yet take their squaws wash & dress them up teach 


Pagel51 




them our language & leam them to labour & leam them the gospel of there forefathers & raise up 
children by them & teach the Children & not many generations Hence they will become A white 
& delightsome people & in no other way will it be done & that the time was nigh at hand when 
the gospel must go to that people to. 

He Said Be long spoken of giving a lecture to the females & when Be got time He intended to do 
it. He spoke of the duty of man to his God that he should love him with all of his heart soul, 
mind, & Strength serve & obey him. And that the woman in like manner ought to obey her 
husband & not to have a woman every time A man steped out be A watching him as uneasy as A 
fish out of water & as soon as he returns O whare have been, & what have you been about, & 
why did you not get back before & many other things that was none of her business. Her business 
is to take care of her Children keep herself Clean & House & keep my Close clean. Instead of 
that the Husband asks whare is the Children? The wife will say dear I dont know. I was so 
Concerned about you I have not thought about the Children. They are probably to some of the 
neighbors. 

Be remarked that when we become settled here He intended to have A school for his own family 
& all others might do the same if they Chose or Join together. And a tutor ought always to be 
with the Children & not let them [get?] out of their sight & when they get weary of runing about 
in the house & garding let the tutor go with them to the public walks & keep them out of the 
streets & see that they do not sware & take the name of God in vain. 

He spoke upon the Subject of raising Children spirits building A tabernacle. He said that every 
spirit was pure when it first entered a body, but many persons have been ruined in consequence 
of the mother giving way to temptation & fretfulness while in the state of [-] And the Husband 
ought to be vary tender & kind to them when in that State. And the Mothers mind ought to be 
excercised [-] things during the whole time & be calm & composed that what temptation the 
mother should give way to would effect the Child [in la?]ter life. Many other principles was 
spoken of By President Young of interest. 

29th President Young with his brethren the Twelve & others mounted horses & started to meet 
with the Battalion under the Command of Captain Brown. We met with some of them about 4 
miles from camp. We were truly glad to meet with them. We continued on up & soon met with 
Capts Brown, Higgins, Lieut Willis & the train f[ollow?]ing them. We exhamined A good grind 
stone quiry while on the way up. I soon met with Br Bevin who went from my family into the 
Army. There was About 140 of the Battalion And a company of about 100 of the Missippi saints 
that came with them from Pueblo being about 60 waggons in all 100 Horses & Mules & 300 
Head of cattle which added greatly to our numbers 

We had A Heavy shower of rain while we were in the Canion which sent down the water in the 
Creeks from the mountains with a rush & roar like thunder resembling the opening of a flood 
gate. The first rush of the water came down with a front 3 feet High. Some of the waggons had to 
stop untill it fell which was but a short time. The shower spread over A good share of the valley 


Page 152 




whare we were setled. 


We returned with the company at there head & march into camp with music. They took up there 
quarters between our two Camps on the bank of the creek. 

While we have been exploring the Camp has been busy in farming puting in potatoes, Corn, 
beans, peas, buckwheat, & Preparing A garding for garding seeds & will go to work to prepare a 
peace for turnips. Our garding to day was divided off as each [ten?] had need. Our distance of 
travel to day was 12 miles. 

In the evening Br Young with the Twelve walked up to the wann springs about 1 1/2 miles from 
the Temple Block. We went in & bathed. It was quite as warm as we Could endure & be 
Comfortable. Those springs are healthy for the sick & diseased. 

30th * We met in Council this morning with the Twelve & Captain Brown, Higings, Willis & 
others & Herd the statements of the officers concerning the Battalion & there situation 
represented. Counsil was given by President Young to the Officers what course to per sue. It 
seemed wisdom for Capt Brown & others to go to the Bay of San Francisco & report himself & 
men & the state they were in. Br Brannan would go as there Pilot. 

Much conversation took place during Council of interest. Dr Sanderson was spoken of who had 
been with the Battalion and it was believed he had tried to poison the Brethren to death & that He 
would be rewarded for his Crimes. 

After the Council Broke up we mounted our Horses & rode north to the warm Springs. Also 
visited the Hot sulpher spring 4 miles from the Temple block. It ishues out from under A rock. A 
large fountain of water forms A pool about 2 rods square 5 feet deep. Is hot enough to cook an 
egg in few moments. We could hold our fingers in it about 10 seconds. After viewing it a while 
we returned to camp. 

I then visited the soldiers camp & also planted ground. I found some of our potatoes had rotted. 
Some was coming up. Our com was up also beans. 

I returned to Camp & had a visit from Br Dexter Stillman. He wished to Come into my family. 
Also Br James Bevin wished to returned again to my family as He was with me when He went 
into the Anny. 

At 8 oclok All the Camps met to gether & was Addressed for more than an hour by President 
Young in An interesting manner Clothed with the spirit of God. He expressed his feelings freely 
concerning the treatment of the government towards us in the same manner as He did on the eve 
of the 28th. He informed the Brethren that there going into the Armey proved our temporal 
salvation at the time for the Governor of Mo had already recieved orders not to let our people 
pass the Mo river if we did not enlist. 

The goverment intended to distroy us from off the face of the earth but through the Blessing of 


Pagel53 




God we are here And I thank my Heavenly father for it. And [he?] knew we should prevail. Zion 
would arise the Judgments of God would be poured out the Blood of the Prophets would be 
av[enged] & their Cup would be fdled double unto them. And if we were faithful we should yet 
have Brs Joseph & Hiram & many of the saints in there resurrected Bodies with us on earth & 
when we died should not sleep but a little time but should Come forth out of our graves with 
Bodies that no mob could kill. We were much edifyed with all the remarks He made. 

The meeting opened with A shout of Hosannah to God & the Lamb repeated three times with its 
Amen. Br Young said the Ancient of days was not as far off as many supposed. 

At the close of the meeting I returned to rest meditating upon what I had herd. An appointment 
was made for the Battalion to prepare A Bowery on the Morrow for our Sabbath Meetings. \8.\ 

3 1st Saturday I spent the morning in writing. The Battalion went to work at the Bower, our camp 
sowing & planting. 

About noon A company of about 20 Utahs visited our camp. There seemed to be two parties of 
them. They came to trade with us & while traiding deerskins for powder & lead &c one Indian 
struck another one over his head with his gun & broke it. The old [Chief?] whiped them both, & 
during the Afternoon the one that had the gun broke over his head stole the other ones Horse & 
put out with it. Soon the Indians found it out & put after him. Followed him into a Canion & shot 
both him & his horse d[ead?] & returned to our camp with the Horse that the Indian [stole?]. 

The Utahs appear vary friendly to us as yet. 

There was A [rumor/report?] out to day that the Indians intended to come & ask pay for their 
lands. Br Young has expressed his opinion that we Should not buy any land of the Indians but as 
the Lord made the land there was enough for both them & us, that we would teach them to labour 
& cultivate the earth. Br Pratts opinion was that we should not feed them at all untill they had 
done sumthing for it so as to begin right with them & teach them industry. 

During the evening I went down to the Utah outlet with several of the brethren & drew a net 4 
times & Caught one fish. They needed a boat & could not get [my?] fish without it. Travled 
during the day 18 m. 


August 

1st Sunday The Congregation of the Saints assembled under the Bower on the Temple lot at 10 
oclok. Meeting opened by singing & prayer. Br Kimball Addressed the meeting for a while & 
expressed his feelings upon a variety of subjects after which Br O Pratt Preached A discourse 
upon the Prophecies of Isaiah & others concerning the building up of Zion in the last days & 
thought many of those prophesies alluded to us in our present position such as Zion should be a 
city sought & not fors[aken?] & that the munition of rocks should be a defence unto them. The 
Lord sware that their corn & wine should no more be given to their enemies, & that the house of 
God should be built upon the tops of the mountain &e. He had the spirit of preaching & we were 


Page 154 




all edifyed. 

When He closed Dr Richards read a letter from the Commanding Officer of the Battalion who 
had gone with then to the Pacific. Spoke in the Highest terms of praise of them in all their 
procedings. Also A letter from Captain Hunt on the 3d of Feb was read. 

Br Kimball made some remarks concerning our traiding with the Indians. That we ought to 
Harken to Council & keep our amunition & not trade with them at all at present. The Indians left 
our encampment in the night & whether they stole any thing or not we do not yet know. 

Congregation Came together again at 2 oclok. The Bishops broke bread to the congregation. Dr 
Richards read the revelation given at winter quarters & the whole recieved it with A universal 
vote. 

Br. A Lyman Addressed the meeting at length & spoke to edifycation after which some business 
matters were brought up & it was decided to commence Building our Houses for those who were 
to tarry through the winter of Dobies instead of timber & put the buildings to gether in a stockade 
for a defence against the Indians. And all oxen that are to go back this Season should start one 
week from tomorrow & various other matters were attended. A vote was taken to cease entirely 
traiding with the Indians & have no intercourse with them at all. We also decided to fonn all the 
encampments into one. 

In the evening the Twelve met & decided for Br Benson to go back & meet the camp & 3 others 
go with him to get the mail & bring word concerning them. 

* 

2d f Br Benson starts for the camp to day. I wrote A letter to Father Woodruff by him. We 
commenced to day to lay out the City Plott commencing with the Temple Block. We formed our 
whole encampment to day into one Circle. 

On forming our temple block of 40 acres it was so large we held a council to see if it was not 
wisdom to reduce it one half the size. Several expressed their opinion upon the subject. G. A. 
Smith believed if we done it we should be sorry afterwards. Would rather enlarge than diminish 
it. Br Kimball th[ought if?] we let it be as it was & set it out to shrubery we should not be sorry. 
Br A said G A Smith had spoke his mind & all our minds seemed to run in about the same 
channel. The President Said we Could eisier diminish than enlarge it afterward & finally decided 
to let it remain as it was. 

We also walked upon a peace of table land above east of the camp & took a view of the city 
ground which presented a grand Prospect to our view. In the evening I went to the warm sulpher 
springs & bathed with Dr Richards G. A. Smith & others. 

3d Our ten sowed our Buck wheat to day a little over one bushel on two acres, O Pratt one third 
G. A. Smith one third & W Woodruff one third & mine to be divided between A. O Smoot Br 


Pagel55 




Dewey & Aphek Woodruff. All the encampment are busiy to day in fanning, laying out the city, 
preparing for making dobys lime & c. 

I recieved of Br [ ] Case 19 lbs. of Iron at 25 cts per lb $4.75. 1 visited the fanning grounds 

gardings &c & found things coming up well such as com, beans, potatoes &c. I went in the 
evening to the warm spring to bathe with Dr Richards. 

4th I met in Council this morning with the Twelve to set upon a case brought up By Br Gribble 
concerning improper conduct of one or two men with his wife. There was contradictory 
testimony & the Case was finally dismissed for the time being. 

We again met in Council concerning the size of the temple square. It was finally considerd we 
Could not do justice to 40 acres to begin with & finally concluded to confine the Temple & 
gard[ing] to 10 acres. 

After Council I rode with G. A. Smith to the mountain to find some timber to put us up a small 
building for a store House & [-] also commenced to day to prepare ground &c. Commenced 
making dobys for puting up a fort. 

5th * As we were under the necessity of returning soon & wanted some place to unload our 
goods that we had with us & those that were coming up we thought it best to go into the 
mountain & draw out logs & build us some Cabins as the doby houses might not be ready. 

Brs Young & Kimball had Commenced drawing out logs for their buildings. Br G. A. Smith & 
myself concluded to join our efforts together & do what we Could. So I took my ax this morning 
& in company with G. A. Smith went to the mountain about 6 miles. We had several men with us 
to assist in Choping. We found a grove of fir trees that we thought would answer well. We had to 
make A road to it & bridges across the creek. I some dreaded the job, for it was a [hard?] one 
And I do not exercise the prudence that I ought when I taken hold of hard labour but do more 
than is good for me. I however commenced choping down trees & done much more work during 
the day than any other man on the ground. 

We choped drew out more logs than to build one house [107] feet square & drew home to the 
fort 25 of them. I blisterd Up my hands & was vary weary at night. Distance of the day 14 m. 

6 I arose early this moring quite sore with my labour. I went into the valley for my horses & we 
could not find them. Some Indians had been [ ] camp this morning or rather in the night & left 

again & we supposed they had taken a drove of horses with them. So we sent our horsman & 
drove in all the Horses in the valley to see how many was gone, but much to our joy we found all 
of our horses was safe which increased our confidence in the Indians that were around us. 

I had rode about 8 miles without a saddle which was wors than labour. We however got our 
teams together & Started for the mountains with 5 teams, & 4 teams went also for Dr Richards to 
draw logs for him. I sadled my horse & took my ax, & went to the timber before them, & before 
they arived I cut 5 large fir trees & when the teams came up the men assisted to cut up the trees 


Pagel56 




& draw them out & load them & we laboured exeeding hard all day & we drew home during the 
day 52 logs great & small except one load that we left by the wayside untill morning. 

This made 77 logs in two days that we Cut & drew home. In two days we got timber sufficient 
for two buildings each of us one. But I had laboured so hard during the two days I Could hardly 
stand upon my feet. I went to my waggon & flung myself upon my bed to rest. 

I had not been on the bed but a short time before Br Kimball called upon me & informed me that 
the Twelve were going soon to the water to be Baptized for the remission of their sins to set an 
example to the Church As they would be called upon on Sunday morning to be baptized by the 
Twelve [all?] those that wished. We considerd this A duty & privlege as we come into a glorious 
valley to locate & build a temple & build up Zion we felt like renewing our Convenant before the 
Lord and each other. 

We soon repaired to the water & President Brigham Young went down into the water & Baptized 
all his Brethren the Twelve that were with him by burying them in the water. He also confirmed 
us in the Church & sealed upon us our apostleship & all the keys, powers & Blessings belonging 
to that office. 

Br Heber C. Kimball Baptized & Confirmed President Bringham Young. The following are the 
names of those present on this occasion: B Young H C Kimball O. Pratt W. Richards W. 
Woodruff G. A. Smith & A Lyman. Distance of the day 20. 

7th I Arose this morning quite weary with my labours of yesterday. I spent the day mostly in 
assisting Br Fowler to start on a Journey to the Bay of Francisco to get his family. I made 
arangments with Capt Brown to furnish him with a horse to ride & put him up provisions to last 
him to fort Hall & there they would get supplys. 

* In the afternoon the Twelve went onto the Temple Block & picked out there inheritances. 
President Young took a block east of the temple & runing S.E. to settle his friends around him. 

Br H. C. Kimball took A Block North of the Temple. Will settle his friends on the north. O. Pratt 
south of the Temple Joining the temple Block & runs south. W. Woodruff took A Block 
Cornering on the Temple lot at the S. west Corner Joining O Pratts Block & will settle his friends 
on the south. A Lyman took A Block 40 rods Below & west of W. Woodruff Block & runs S 
West of the Temple to settle his friends. G. A. Smith took A Block Joining the Temple on the 
west & runs due west. It was supposed Br Richards would take his inheritance on the east near Br 
Young. None others of the Twelve were present in the Camp. Br Benson had gone back to meet 
the camp & 3 of the quorum was in winter quarters. 

During the evening in company with the Twelve I went to one of the pure streams of Cold water 
that runs through the City & H C Kimball baptized 55 members of the Camp for the remission of 
their sins who were Confirmed under the Hands of Presidents?] Young O Pratt, W Woodruff, A 
Lyman, & G. A. Smith. B Young was mouth in confirming the greatest number of them. 


Page 157 




8th Sunday morning At 6 oclock the Bishops repaired with the Twelve * to the streams of water 
for the purpose of Baptizing & Confinning the whole Camp who had not been [baptized] since 
we came into the valley. We felt it our privilege to be baptized & to Baptize the Camp of Israel 
for the remission of our sins & to renew our covenants before the Lord. Brothers Lewis, Godard, 
Everett Shumway Snow & H C Kimball baptized & the Twelve Confirmed them. There were 
224 Baptized & Confirmed this morning 99 of which I Confirmed with my own hands making 
288 in all that have been baptized in the camp during the last 3 days. 

The Camp assembled as usual at 10 oclok for meeting And was addressed as usual by H C 
Kimball who had the spirit of speaking unto edifycation. I followed him And was never blessed 
with greater liberty of speach in addressing a congregation. I was edifyed myself & those that 
herd. 

In the afternoon we met again & pertook of the Sacrament. Br Lorenzo Young addressed the 
people & was followed by Br Brigham Young who was feeble in health. He gave good Council 
& we were edefyed. At the Close of the meeting the men were Called up to go onto the Doby 
yard. 76 volunteered & they thought that would answer for A commencment. * 

The following are some of the remarks made by W Woodruff in his address to the Saints in the 
fore part of the day written by Thomas Bullock clerk: I have been much edifyed in the teaching 
given by Elder Kimball & have reflected much since I came into this valley concerning our 
situation, our calling, & the work that is required at our hands. And the words of one of the 
Apostles will apply well to our case "that when we have done the will of God we have need of 
patience that we may obtain the blessings, & though it tarry long we should obtain it if we 
continued faithful." Of all people that ever lived we have the greatest reason to be faithful & 
exercise Patience & not be weary in well doing for we have the greatest work to perform & 
Blessings promised accordingly. 

The day has come when the Lord has set his hand with full purpose of heart to esstablish his 
Kingdom on the earth, gather Israel build up Zion & Jerrusa-lem make an end of sin & cause all 
nations to bow the Knee & every tongue to confess that Jesus is the Lord & has a right to reign 
on the earth. And ye are the people ye Elders of Israel & Latter Day Saints that are moved upon 
& Called & Chosen to do this work. Who is sufficient for these things, & what maner of persons 
ought ye to be? 

I rejoice that I enjoy the society of so many of the Saints this day in this glorious valley which has 
not been pelluted by the ungodly gentiles & that I can speak with freedom without being 
trammled by wicked men. The difference in the society Between the Saints & the gentiles in the 
United States can ownly be Contrasted between Heaven & Hell in comparison. For let an elder of 
this church depart from New York & travel to Saint Louis & let the people know who he is & He 
would be in Hell all the time & there is A cause. For he is A Prophet Seer & Revelater. Patriarchs 
& Apostles have been raised up in there midst. The Church & kingdom of God has been planted 
among them, the gospel preached & salvation freely offered unto all & what have they done? 


Pagel58 




They have stoned the Prophets & killed them. Poured out their Blood like water upon the earth, 
have burned their dwellings & given their goods to the flames, have driven the Apostles with the 
keys of Eternal life & salvation with the entire Church & Kingdom of God out of their midst into 
the wilderness & the mountains & they have turned the last key that has sealed & locked fast 
their condemnation that lingereth not & there damnation that slumbereth not. And this is the 
reason why they are full of hell & desire to destroy every thing that retaines any portion of the 
spirit of Gods. 

But if it requires all the martered Saints in Heaven from righteous Abel to Joseph to go forth 
from the temple in Heaven & pour out all the vials of the last plagues upon the United States & 
open the seals upon them in order to avenge the Blood of the Prophets & Saints which they have 
spilt, it will be done for that Blood Shall spedily be avenged. Yea vary Spedily. 

The Prophet Joseph, The Twelve Apostles, with many of the Elders of Israel & Saints Have been 
called to pass through seenes of sufferings & privations that would have discouraged an 
Allexander. They have had to combat earth and Hell, wicked men & devils, Sickness & death, 
Burnings Drivings & persecutions. But have we been discuraged? No. The greater the difficulties 
the more we have been stimulated to Action. 

What has sustained us & inspired us to action in the midst of these difficulties? We have been 
upheld by the power of God that we might fulfill his purposes. Our spirits have been stired up by 
the [-] Blood of the Martered Prophets which still cries from the ground [to?] heaven for 
vengance & will not rest neither let us untill it is avenged. 

We have also been moved upon by the spirits of our fathers & Progenitors whose bodies have 
lain in the dust for many generatons who recieved not the gospel in the flesh not having it 
prooffered unto them, but are now waiting for the redemption of their bodies After salvation shall 
be sealed upon them through the instru[ment]ality of their sons who should embrace the gospel 
in the fulness of times. 

We are also moved upon by the Holy Ghost to accomplish the [-] work of the last days & fulness 
of times in preparing the earth for the reign of Christ, & to fulfill the promises which was made 
to the Ancient Prophets & Patriarch which promises they drew from the Heavens by their faith & 
faithfulness before the Lord & saw the work that lies before us by the spirit of inspiration 
revelation dreams & the visions of Heaven. 

Thus it has been that A Combination of Causes of eternal & important Consequences has 
stimulated the Proph[et] Apostles & Elders to action untill they have resolved in their hearts that 
for Zions sake they would not hold their peace & for Jerrusa-lem Sake they would not rest, untill 
their righteousness goes forth as Brightness & Salvation as A Lamp that Bumeth. 

Yea the time has Come for the Lord to esstab-lish his kingdom on the earth & to make A short 
work of it & overthrow the Kingdom of the devel, for He has held dominion on the earth for 
many generations & in one instance undertook to claim his right to all the Kingdoms of the world 


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before the Lord when He showed the Savior all the kingdoms of the world & proffered to give 
them to him if He would fall down & worship him, when in fact the Poor Devil * did not own 
one foot of land on the earth. 

I feel also that the time has come when we Can no more preach salvation to those of the gentiles 
who have rejected the Prophets & killed them & cast the saints & the gospel out of their midst. 
The last time I was through the United States I Could not Preach salvation to the people but I 
could have the spirit of God to preach damnation to them for they were worthy. I tried to preach a 
gospel sennon in the Temple in Nauvoo to many of the world who were present But it was hard 
work to do it. But I could tell them about their spilling the Blood of the Prophets & the 
judgments that must follow them & that they had not got done with Joseph Smith but he would 
yet rise in judgment against them & condemn them. 

I will close by relating A circumstance that transpired when I was in the eastern States on my 
return from England. I went to the state of Connecticut (my native place) to get my father to 
bring to Zion. I thought if Joseph was Justifyed in giving Commandment to have his bones taken 
to be buried in Canaan, that I was Justifyed In taking my living father & gathering him with the 
Saints & while At his house I was visited by my Fathers Sister Avill Wheeler who was naturly a 
good woman & A strenuous Prysbeterian. While conversing about our leaving & going so far off 
she asked me with tears in her eyes if I supposed we Could find any Christian society to associate 
with. I replyed for Gods Sake & our sake I hope not. She gazed at me with Amazement & 
wondered why I should feel so. I replyed that the Christians of this generation in the United 
States had persecuted us to all intents & Purposes had burned our dwellings, given our goods to 
the flames had murdered our Brethren, Sisters, wives & Children had martered our Prophets, 
Patriarchs, & Apostles & driven the remainder of us from their midst & Should we now desire 
their society & seek their religion! No. I would rather be in the midst of the griselly bears of the 
rocky mountains, or mingle with the society of the Savages of the forest, than to longer mingle 
with such Christians or longer bear the fruits of their religion. 

9th I spent the day in making A saw pit. 

10th I spent the day in preparing timber for our dwellings in the fort. We decided by Council to 
enclose one Block of 10 acres with dobys & log buildings as a fort or fortification. 

[1 1th] I spent this day in framing timber. The Company also Commenced [l?]aying their wall on 
one side of the lot one doby & half thick 2 feet. 

Br Crow had a young /grand/ Child drowned to day. The child's name was Thirl [kie?]. 

12th Br Crows /grand/ Child was buried today. I commenced to day to lay the foundation of our 
houses The block is laid in the following manner: On the East side of the block commencing on 
the NE Corner B Young 4 rooms L Young 2 rooms, H C Kimball 5 rooms W Richards 2 rooms, 
W. Woodruff 2 rooms 14 by 17, G A. Smith 2 rooms A Lyman 2 rooms L Snow 1 Rooms. All 
rooms are 14 feet wide and as long as we please. G. A Smith & myself Build together 2 rooms 


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each. We laid the foundation of the 4 to day. I was quite unwell at night. 

13th I spent some part of the day in council. Each one of the Twelve was to make Choice of the 
Blocks that they were to settle their friends upon-Br Bringham Young took two tier of Blocks 
South through the City. Br Kimball run North & N west. O Pratt 4 Blocks. W Woodruff 8 
Blocks. G A Smith 8 & A Lyman 12 Blocks according to the Company organized with them. 

14th I was quite unwell through the day & did not feel able to labour. 

4 of the messengers returned from Bear River valley & cash valley who started with Capt Brown 
that has gone with a Company to the Bay via Fort Hall. The messengers Bring a glorious report 
of cash valley & the Country between us & there, that is rich soil & well watered & well 
calculated for farming purposes Also bear river valley for stock grazing & Called at Miles 
Goodyiers place. Had about 30 yards picketed in A small garding Corn & vegitation doing well. 

It was about 90 miles from the City of the Salt Lake to Cash valley & [ ] miles to Bear River 

valley. 

Our Brethren drove in 4 loads of Salt from the lake which was obtained with little trouble As it 
lay in bars, banks, & beds in the edge of the water & had to be shoveld up, washed, dreaned &c 
& was then prepared for use. 

The Brethren also returned that went to the Utah lake to go fishing. They Could not get quite to 
the lake with a waggon without working the road some, & having no tools returned. Found A 
mountain of granite good for building runing from 7 to 15 miles from Camp. 

The quorum of the Twelve decided in Council that the name of our City should be City of the 
Salt Lake, Great Bason, North America. 

15 th * /i|| Sunday The Camp of Israel met as usual at 10 oclok & was addressed by President 
Young in an interesting manner upon an interesting subject much to our edifycation. The 
following are some of the remarks made by President Young: 

I am going to day to speak upon the subject of the Patriarchal Priesthood & by request of Br 
Crow say sumthing upon the death of his Child that was drowned the other day. I hope to speak 
so as to be understood. There is a reality in eternal things as much as in the things of time which 
we daily see with our eyes. When A man has A dream or vision of eternal things it is an evidence 
of its truth as much as though He saw it with his own eyes in one sens of the word. The Lord has 
hid from man the things that He knew before He came in the flesh that He might walk by faith & 
prove himself while here. The Lord converses with men on the earth in the form of A servent & 
by visions & dreams &c but He never appears [to] man in the flesh in the fulness of his glory, for 
He is as a consuming fire & a mortal body would perish in an instant. 

The Priesthood is again restored on the earth to bring back [-]. We do not recieve all at once but 
we recieve grace for grace. When Brother Joseph received the Preisthood He did not recieve all 
at once, but He was A prophet Seer & Revelator before He recieved the fulness of the Priesthood 


Pagel61 




& keys of the kingdom. 

He first recieved the Arcnick Priesthood & Keys from under the hands of John the Baptist. He 
then had not power to lay on hands to confirm the Church but afterwards He recieved the 
Patriarchal or Melchisedick Priesthood from under the Hands of Peter James & John who were 
of the Twelve Apostles & were the Presidency when the other Apostles were Absent. From those 
Apostles Joseph Smith recieved every key power, Blessing, & Privilege of the Highest Authority 
of the Melchezedick Priesthood ever committed to man on the earth which they held. 

Some have had fears that we had not power to get revelations since the death of Joseph. But I 
want this subject from this time forth to be forever set at rest And I want this Church to 
understand from this day henceforth & forever that an apostle is the Highest office & Authority 
that there is in the Church & kingdom of God on the earth. From whom did Joseph recieve his 
authority? From just such men as sit around me here (pointing to the Twelve Apostles that sat 
with him). Peter James & John were Apostles & there was no noise about their being seers & 
Revelators though those gifts were among them. Joseph Smith gave unto me & my brethren the 
Twelve all the Priesthood keys Power & Authority which he had And those are powers which 
belong to the Apostleship. 

In Josephs day we had to ordain Patriarchs. Could we ordain men to Authority greater than we 
held ourselves? No. But it is necessary to have Patriarchs] to Bless the People that they may 
have Blessings by the spirit of proph[ecy] & Revelation sealed upon their heads & their posterity 
& know what awaits their posterity. Father Smith was the Seignor Patriarch in the Church & first 
Patriarch in our day & Afterwards Hiyram was seignor Patriarch for his father sealed it upon his 
head. But was there Power & Authority different from all Patriarchs in the church? No. They 
were all alike in their authority in Blessing. 

Elijah spoken of in the Bible that He should Come in the last days to turn the hearts of the fathers 
to the Children & the children to their fathers. The fulfillment of this scripture is manifest in 
esstablishing the kingdom of God & Priesthood on the earth in the last days & those who hold 
the keys of the priesthood & sealing power have the spirit & power of Elijah & it is necessary in 
order to redeem our dead & save our Children. There is much more importance attached to this 
than Parents are aware of. 

In the loss of this Child of Brother Crows that was drowned I felt that I Could weep in sorrow if I 
gave way to my feelings for I realize it is A loss to the parents to loose little children. It is true all 
Children are saved. There names are written in the Lamb’s book of [life?] which was the case 
with every spirit that takes A tabernacle on this earth. Their names were written there before the 
world was made, & will there ever remain untill they sin against the Holy Ghost. It will then be 
blotted out no more to be recorded forever. 

But notwithstanding this Can brother Crow get that Child again or any other person their 
Children except their is sumthing done for them on the earth by their Parents? No they would 
not. They would go to God who gave them but the parents on the earth would not have them. The 


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Parents framed the Body to be sure But the Lord gave the spirit. What is the Body good for 
without the spirit? 

What then can be done. I will tell you. A man that has embraced the gospel must [be?] some one 
who has the Priesthood & keys & power of Elijah & must attend to ordinances for that Child, 
even must be baptized [for it?] as well as to have it sealed to him & through [— ] claim his Child 
in the morning of the resurrection & the Lord will give it up to him. I had my Children sealed to 
me in the temple except one that died & that I shall leave in the hands of the Lord, untill I have 
another opportunity. 

As soon as we get up some doby Houses for our families we shall go to work to build another 
Temple & as soon as A place is prepared we shall Commence the Endowments long before the 
Temple is built & we shall take time & each step the Saints take let them take time enough about 
it to understand it. Evry thing at Nauvoo went with a rush. We had to build the Temple with the 
trowel in one hand the sword in the other & mobs were upon us all the while and many crying 
out O the temple cant be built. 

I told them it should be built, this Church should not fall & the Lord Said if we did not build it 
we should be rejected as a Church with our dead. Why did He say it? Because the Saints were 
becoming slothful & covetous & would spend their means upon fine Houses for themselves 
before they would put it into A House for the Lord. But we went at it & finished it & turned it 
over into the hands of the Lord in spite of earth & Hell & the Brethren was so faithful at it that 
we laboured day [and] night to give them their endowments. 

The Children want to be sealed to their Parents & Parents to their Children that they may have 
blessings in eternity that they will stand in need of. God promised to Abraham that his seed 
should be as numerous as the stars of Heaven & the sands of the seashore & to his seed there 
should be no end. This of course would continue through all Eternity. The same blessing is upon 
our heads if we are faithful for our eyes have not seen, our ears herd neither entered into our 
hearts the great things that God has in store for us. 

And when I look upon the great work the Elders of Israel have to perfonn & look around upon 
them & see them vain & foolish, it makes me sorrowful they forget their Calling. O ye Elders of 
Israel think for a moment what manner of persons ought ye to be. Men who hold the priesthood 
& keys of salvation & have power to go to the Nations of the Earth & say Here Gentleman & 
Ladies I have salvation for you & power to exhalt you to Celestial Glory, or if you reject it to seal 
you unto damnation. It is no trifling affair to have power put into your hand to deal with the 
Eternal destinies of the sons & daughters of Adam that form the Nations of the earth. 

While in the Temple at Nauvoo we voted to cut off the gentiles who had rejected the gospel & 
killed the prophets & it was recorded on earth & [if?] is recorded in heaven that Nation will go 
down quickly. 

Many other interesting & important items were presented by President Young much to our 


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edifyca-tion. Meeting was dismissed & met again at 2 oclok & was Addressed in a vary edifying 
manner by O Pratt & treated upon the same principles spoken off by Br Young. Among his 
remarks He said that as all the ordinances of the gospel Administered by the world since the 
Aposticy of the Church was illegal, in like manner was the marriage Cerimony illegal and all the 
world who had been begotton through the illegal marriage were Bastards not sons & Hence they 
had to enter into the law of adoption & be adopted into the Priesthood in order to become sons & 
legal heirs of salvation. 

Erastus Snow followed & spoke much to our edifycation After which meeting was dismissed. 

President Young met with the company who were to start back in the morning with the ox teams. 
There were over 60 in number & gave good instruction to them. Many of the Battalion deposited 
there guns with President Young for safe keeping. 

16th The Company was quite busy in preparing their teams & waggons to start back. I 
undersigned Br Stillman for two yoke of Cattle to send back for his family to be returned in one 
year from this time. Brother Samuel Badham recepted to me all money due him for his services 
in the United States war to be paid to me by Capt Brown or any person in whose hands it may be 
in. I also recieved one yoke of Cattle from Br. [ ] Sargent loned me to assist Br Stillman, my 

own family, or any body els I thought proper. 

17th Br Smith & myself Concluded to put up two rooms each instead of one, making 4 rooms 
between us so we commenced drawing timber to day though it is vary hard labour for us. 

1 8th Spent the day drawing timber. 

19 & 20 Was Also spent in drawing timber & laying up logs into the Houses. I labour so hard & 
am so weary at night I Cannot rest. This evening while unloading the last load of logs one stick 
fell on Br G A Smith head & knocked him down & cut a hole in his head & hurt him badly. 

2 1 st I spent the day in laying up our Horses. Br George A was Able to walk about but not to do 
any work. Brs Young & Kimball moved into their Houses this evening. 

22d Sunday I went to the warm springs & bathed in the morning. Met in conference with the 
Twelve & saints at 1 oclok & resolved universally to Call this place City of the great salt Lake of 
the great Bason North America. Named the stream runing through the City City Creek. The Utah 
outlet western Jordon & two creeks Coming out of the mountains great Canion Creek & little 
Canion Creek & one large stream Mill Creek. Voted to fence in the city or portions of it for 
farming purposes for the coming year. Voted to appoint A President, & High Council, & all other 
necessary officers in this stake of Zion. The Twelve write an epistle to leave with the saints in the 
City of the great Salt lake. Adjourned untill the 6th of October AD 1848. 

23d I spent the day laying up our buildings. We got the bodies of the 4 rooms nearly up. I was 
vary weary at night. 


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24th We finished laying up the timber of our rooms & I put the roof on one room & put on-one 
coat of mud & made one door & hung it. 


25th I laid my floor & laid part of [-] chamber & moved my goods into the house & left them in 
care of Brother J Bevin. I built a good Chimney which draws well. Br Johnson put it up for me. I 
had prayers in the house in the evening. 

We shall leave this valley in the morning to start back to winter Quarters. We as A pioneer 
company have accomplished more this season then can be found on record concerning any set of 
men since the days of Adam. Having travled with heavy loaded waggons over one thousand 
miles having made our road more than one half of the way over & through the rough mountains 
& canions & searched out a glorious land as a resting place for the Saints & in one month after 
our arival laid out a city two miles square & built A fort & fortification of hewn timber drawn 7 
miles from the mountains & of unbumt brick surrounding 10 acres of ground 40 rods of which 
was coverd with Block Houses, Besides planting about 100 Acres of com, potatoes, Buckwheat 
turnips gardens &c. The pioneers did not exceed 150 men during the time. 140 of the Battalion 
arived. I think there was not over 100 men labouring on the work at a time, besides much 
exploring was done. And after accomplishing this work the company return to winter Quarters 
the place of Begining making nearly 2,500 miles traveling during one summer besides all the 
labour. 

26 The Pioneer Camp with a large number of the Battalion Harnessed up our horses this morning 
& bid farewell to our friends who was to tarry. I put A pair of mules on my Carriage & Brother 
Stillman drove them. I rode on Horsback. I went through the com & Potatoe fields which has 
been planted one month this day. The corn was about tosseling out nearly one foot high. The 
Buckwheat looked well. We drove to a spring 15 miles from camp & spent the night. I Broak my 
whippletree & had to make a new one. It was exeeding dusty. 15 miles. 

27th We travled to day 25 miles & camped 8 miles east of the weaver . 25. 

28 We travled to day 25 miles & Camped 8 miles east of the weaver. 

[] } } } } Sunday 29th We travled in the fore part of the day 15 miles & nooned by a spring 15 
miles west of Mathews Cave. We here were met by our messengers who had been on to meet the 
Camp Br E T. Benson & others. They were truly welcome messengers, for our Anxiety had been 
vary great to hear from our families & the Camp, & to our joy we herd from them this day. 

The camp No near 600 waggons, & divided into 9 companies. I also recieved 3 letters from Mrs 
Woodruff & one from A O Smoot. Mrs Woodruffs letters brough me intelligence of all matters 
appertaining to my Cattle, Cows, Business matters & family concerns, & I find that some persons 
who I have tried to do good & save, are filled with folly & the poison of Asps are under their 
tongue & are tatling, lying, & destroying themselves & using evry exher-tion to destroy the peace 
of my family. The letters inform me that Father Woodruff is coming along & is well. Also Mary 


Page 165 




Jackson is along in his waggon. Br & Sister Annstrong has one of my waggons. Mother 
Woodruff has gone Back to Iowa to live with Dwight & Eunice Woodruff & it would have been 
for the peace & Happiness of my family if B.C. & M. J. had been with them for they are foolish 
& do not chose things which are right & righteous. 

We obtained much news of interest from the mail about matters in general. We camped for the 
night within 1 miles of Bear River. Distance 26 m. 

30th We travled 23 miles to day & camped within 27 miles of fort Bridger. We Crossed Bear 
river. The Brethren found A good Chance to escape the long steep hill we last passed by going 
one side of it. 33 mils. 

3 1st We travled to fort Bridger & camped 2 miles east of the fort. The Brethren done A good deal 
of traiding at the fort. Distance 27 m. 


September 

1st One half of the Horses of the Camp were missing. We thought they were stolen by the snake 
Indians who were at Bridgers the night before but after long searching we found them, & went on 
our Journey & travled 15 miles & camped on the bank of a creek. We travled in the afternoon 18 
miles & camped on Hams fork. Distance of the day (excellent grass) 33 mile. 

2d Travled to green river & camped upon the river Bank. It was vary windy & Cold in the 
evening. Distance 23 m. 

3d Travled to Big Sandy & nooned 12 miles & in the afternoon 17 miles & camped again upon 
big sandy And here to our joy we met with the first fifty of the six hundred waggons which was 
Br Spencers hundred. It was A joyful meeting. 

We Called A meeting of the Camp in the evening which was addressed in the following order: 

By G A. Smith B. Young H. C. Kimball & W. Woodruff. We had truly an interesting meeting 
giving A description of the Country teaching principle. President Young rebuked sin in some 
persons. * Distance of the day 18 m. 

4th :(■ We travled to little Sandy 8 miles & to our Joy we met with Capt Sessions fifty. Here we 
found Parly Pratt fifty of company. I dined with Br Abbott & family while here I recieved A 
letter from Br J Ferguson from the Army. 

In the Afternoon the quorum of the Twelve met in Council & one of the most interesting 
Councils we ever held together on the earth. In the Begining of the Council two of the quorum 
was reproved Sharply for undoing what the majority of the quorum had done in the organizing of 
the camps for travelling. At first it was not recieved but afterwards the error was recieved [&?] 
seen, confession made & much teaching given by the President & the power of God rested upon 
us & our hearts melted & our eyes in tears. The President said if he did not tell us our faults we 
would be destroyed but if he told us of them & reproved us we would live in love & our hearts be 


Page 166 




semented together. 

Brothers Parley P Pratt & J Taylor had been to england & done a good work. Had returned to 
winter quarters, & there done wrong by disorganizing the two divisions & Companies that the 
quorum of the Twelve had spent the whole winter in organizing & which was Also governed by 
revelation. Br Parley took the lead in the matter & entirly disregarded our organization & mixed 
the companies all up. 

Br Young Chastized him for his Course & taught us Principle Said that when we Set a part one 
or more of the Twelve to go & do a certain piece of work they would be blessed in doing that & 
the quorum would back up what they did. But when one or more of the quorum interfere with the 
work of the majority of the quorum they burn their fingers & do wrong. 

When the majority of the quorum of the 12 plant a stake of Zion & esstablish A President over 
the Stake & Appoint A High Council there Has the minority of the Twelve one or more any right 
to go & interfere with those Councils? No unless they Should get corrupt & do wrong. Then it 
would be the duty of any one of the quorum of the Twelve to show them their error & teach them 
what was right, & should the majority of those councils get corrupt & try to lead asstray the 
people it would then be the duty of any one of the Twelve to disannul those councils & call upon 
the people to Sustain him & Appoint a new one. But while the Councils are trying to do right it 
would be the duty of the Twelve who might be with them to assist them in carrying out those 
views that the majority of the Twelve had esstablished. 

The quorum of the Twelve all decided that Br Pratt had committed an error in not carrying out 
the organization as esstablished by the Twelve. Br Pratt at first had A hard spirit. Afterwords 
repented & Confessed his fault & the Power of God rested upon President Young & the whole 
quorum. 

President Young Said that He felt Eternity upon him & was weighed down to the earth with this 
work & that Br Kimble felt the weight of it more than any other man except himself. Each one of 
the quorum expressed their feelings upon the subject & we all had a good time. Br Young said 
He should Chastize Br Parley or any one of the quorum as much as he pleased when they were 
out of the way & they Could not help themselves but He done it for their good & ownly done it 
when Constrained to do it by the power of God. 

Br H C Kimball Addressed br Young & wished him to rest as much as possible & let his brethren 
bear his burtherns. He said He wanted Br Brigham to save himself for He was waring down. I 
feel tender toward you & want you to live, & If I or my Brethren do wrong tell us of it & we will 
repent. Br Brigham Said there was not a better set of men on the earth than the Twelve & He 
intended to chastize them when they need it that they might be saved & love him & stick by him. 
We all felt good to be there for the Lord was with us. 

5th We travled to day to the springs. Here to our Joy we met with three fifties, Br A. O. Smoot 
Hundred, And Robinson fifty of Gen Rich company. I here met with Father Woodruff & the 


Page 167 




Company Br Smoot & many from our ward which I was truly glad to see. 

After Having Conversation with them & getting supper we held A meeting of all the camps. G. 

A. Smith W. Woodruff & O Pratt Addressed them. The President then Called for A vote to tarry 
tomorrow & Addressed them. 

I spent the night untill 2 oclok with Br & Sister Smoot enquiring into affairs of the Camp 
business matters &c. Distance of the day 26 miles. 

6th Several Horses & mules gone this morning. Horsman gone after them. I opened my Bevin 
Chest & library & found every thing right. We held A Council with the officers in the morning. It 
was A vary Cold day. 

In the Afternoon the Twelve met in council being eight of us And A O Smoot related to the 
quorum the circumstances of John Taylor taking from John Benbow over $300 for his sister & Br 
Taylors opinion was there Could be no appeal in the case to any other Authority. The Council 
voted that John Benbow have A rehearing before the quorum of the Twelve if He wished it. Also 
voted that the High Council in the salt lake city take charge of the Property on its Arival there 
which was taken from John Benbow. Resolved also that there Could be an appeal from there 
decision to the majority of the quorum of the Twleve. 

I spent the evening At Dr Richards office with the Twelve & Herd the Epistle read that was for 
the Saints in the great Bason. I spent a part of the night with Br Smoot at his waggon writing & 
reading letters, councilling &c. 

7th The camps were all busy this morning in preparing to leave. I saw my oxen that father And 
Armstrong has. My Durham ox was failing fast. The rest looked as though they would stand it 
through well. I left the Knealy Horse with Br Smoot & the Benbow Horse with Thomas Benbow. 
Br Porter wished me to keep his horse & bring him on in the spring. Br Dewey wished me to 
bring him a Cow for what I owed him if I could. Br Porter wished me to help on his sons 
War[nor?] if I could. Father wanted me to see Dr Cannon in winter Quarters. 

After the many request made I bid fare well to Br & Sister Smoot Father Woodruff & all the 
Camps. Many wished to be remembered to Mrs Woodruff. The Camps moved on to the west & 
we moved east. 

The springs that we camp on were near the pass. As we Started it commenced snowing & was 
cold. We passed over the Cornelian table or valley at the Pass & travled 12 mile & camped on 
the sweet water in company with John Taylors company and also Br Hunter Company. 

The ground was coverd with snow which continued to fall untill evening. I took supper with Br 
Shirtliff This Hundred prepared A feast for the whole Pioneer Camp & furnished A table Here in 
the wilderness In the most splendid manner for one hundred persons. More than that Number eat 
at the table & were fdled with roast, & Broiled Beef, pies, Cakes, Bisket Butter, Peach sauce, 
Coffee, tea, Shugar, & a great variety of good things. 


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In the evening the camp had a dance but the quorum of the Twelve met in Council at Br Shirtleff 
tent & transacted such business as Came before them. It was a Cold frosty night. The case of Br 
Benbow was brought up & He was discharged from any further obligation to Agnes Benbow. 
Distance of the day ( } I wrote A letter to Br [-]). 14 miles. [] I recieved 10 letters while on this 
Journey. 

8th A Cold morning but it soon grew warm & the snow melted away. We Parted with the Camp 
& rode 12 miles & Camped on the sweet water with Br J. M. Grants Hundred. I dined with Br 
Neff & family & saw many I was acquainted with. 12 m. 

Br J M Grant had buried one Child on the way & his wife lay at the point of death. 

We held a council in the evening & herd brother Grant related the circumstances of the 
organization of the companies which was not according to the former organization. Br Young 
said He was more & more Convinced that there was A wrong with P. P. Pratt & John Taylor in 
these things. We also Herd Br Grant relate his interview with Col Kane which was interesting to 
us. He has the spirit of the Lord with him & is doing for us what He can. Thomas Benton is an 
inveterat enemy & doing what He Can against us. Many things of interest was spoken off. 12 m. 

9th * The Alarm was given early this morning that many Horses & mules were stolen. Bells were 
found cut off from Horses laretts cut An Arrow picked up, & much indian sign. The trail was 
finally found to have followed the road east at about 9 oclok. A company of 20 Horsman put on 
after the trail. It looks gloomy here, to see so many men women & children here in the mountains 
with their Horses & cattle stolen & breaking down so late in the season & 30 Horses being taken 
by the Indians from the Pioneer Camp & 20 from the others camps last night which will nearly or 
quite cripple us. 

All of our camps have remained Stationary through the day. The Camps assembled in the 
evening for A meeting & was addressed By O Pratt H. C. Kimball & B. Young. O Pratt gave a 
description of the valley. H. C. Kimball exhorted the Saints to faithfulness & President Young 
gave much instruction & council to the Camp upon a variety of subjects. All spoke much to our 
edifycation. During the evening two of our Brethren returned who had been in persuit of the 
Horses & Brought back five of them. 

10th We Parted with our friends this morning who were going west. They started on their journey 
& those of us who had not lost Horses divided with those who had & we Harnessed up what 
teams we had left & travled 16 miles & Camped on the sweet water. 

We met the remainder of our Brethren returning from persuing the Horses but did not obtain any 
more of them. The enemy escaped with 43 of our Horses. We have had A plesant day but vary 
windy. 16 miles. 

1 1th We travled 21 miles mostly sandy road which made it hard drawing for our Horses. We saw 
large droves of Antelope but ownly one was killed. We Camped on the sweet water. 21 miles. It 


Page 169 




was A warm plesant day. 

12th Sunday We travled 21 miles & camped on the sweet water about 200 miles from fort John. 
Just before camping we saw a herd of Buffalo Bulls 1 1 in number. About one dozen footman 
with their guns put after them as we had no meet in camp. I mounted a small mule with A brace 
of pistols & a 7 shooter pistol. I was the ownly horsman in chase. 

We drove them into A canion of the mountain whare they could not get away & we surrounded 
[them]. The footman shot 3 times into the herd & they jumped of a precipice 25 feet. One broke 
his neck in the fall & droped dead. The remainder came rushing by me. I gave them chase. Run 
into the herd & drove out two of them which we killed with our pistols & rifles. So we got 3 of 
them which made us plenty of meat. 2 1 m. 

13th We travled 20 miles & camped on the sweet water one mile east of Devils gate 4 miles west 
of Independance rock. We had strong wind during the day I was afflicted with severe Cold & 
Head ake. Distance 20. 

14th We travled 14 miles & camped on A small creek. While on the road Br Mathews Horse got 
away from him & went back 9 m. Br Young & Egan went back after him. We stoped at the 
Salaratus lake & filled our bags with salaratus. It was Cut out in cakes A foot thick. This lake is 3 
miles east of Independance rock. 

We had a hard storm of rain in the mountains & considerable rain fell in the valley whare we was 
the roads was vary sandy. 14 mil. We saw A number of herds of Buffalo to day. 

15th We travled 25 miles & Camped at night at the Springs within 12 miles of platt river. We did 
not get through untill 9 oclock. We saw many Buffalo during the day. 25. 

16th We drove the Platt river & crossed the ferry & Camped. We saw many Buffalo to day. A 
Bull followed my waggon for half a mile. Br Stillman went to drive him off & He seemed 
detennined to give him Battle so we drove on & left him & he went his way. We have scarcely 
had any feed for several days drive for our Horses. We find it better on the platt. 12. 

17th We started out on a Buffalo Hunt this morning But after viewing the Hills & Plains we 
could not see any Buffalo Cows & as Bulls were poor this season of the Year we would not kill 
any of them so we returned to camp. Harnessed our Horses & drove 12 miles & camped on the 
Bank of the Platt. Grass quite good. 

On the way I exhamined the grave stone of A young man who was drowned while swiming the 
river in the spring. He was one of the Mo emigrants going to Oregon. It is wann plesant weather. 
Distance 12. 

18th * We travled 18 miles & Camped on deer Creek which abounds with game. I walked up the 
Creek with my gun 2 miles. I came near a large griselly bear quarelling with her Cubs. I did not 
think it prudent to approach her alone. I crossed the Creek, went on to a high Bluff & she came 


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out onto an open place whare I had a view of her. I found She was working down the creek 
towards the camp. 

I went to camp & reported & Brother's Young, Kimball, Richards & Benson walked up the creek 
to view A Coal mine. And they came within 4 rods of the old Bear with two Cubs before they 
saw her. The old bear took After them. Br Kimball shot at her with his rifle But did not hit her. 

Br Benson Could not get his rifle off. Br Young shot at the cubs 3 times with a 7 shooter pistol. 
Knocked one of them over but he got up & followed the mother who rose a high Bank whare the 
Brethren stood. They left the ground & retreated to a high rock. The Bears then left following 
them & took to the timber. Soon men & dogs were on the ground from Camp but it became dark 
& the dogs would not follow & we gave up the chase. It was 20 rods from the Brethren when the 
Bear attacked them & did not see it. 

There were two Antilope killed to day And A Frenchman that was travelling in Company with us 
shot A vary fat Buffalo cow & distributed a good share of it in our camp which was excellent 
eating. There was Also two Buffalo Bulls killed to day. /1 8 mile./ 

19th Sunday Early this morning A Company of Hunters crossed the river to get some Buffalo 
Cows in a herd near By. In the Chase Br Mathews horse fell with him but did not hurt him. The 
others Continued on & killed one cow & two black tailed deer. 

While this was going on the Twelve with many others went up the creek to see if they could get 
the Bears But we Could not find them. I came in sight of 3 deer & shot 3 times at them with A 
coarse sighted rifles & shot over them evry time. Brother Barnham shot one of them. I went a 
little above & saw about 50 Antilope in a flock feeding on the plain. I got within 30 rods of one 
of them & shot him dead in his tracks. I brought my horse up to put him onto his back to pack 
him into Camp And I laboured hard one hour before I could get the horse willing to let me put 
the Animal on his back. I was 5 miles from camp & walked & led my horse in. The Antilop was 
fat. We then Harnessed up & drove 9 miles & camped on Fourcheb[ei?]sed rock. 9 miles. 

20th We travled 30 miles. We crossed dry creek, little timber, & camped on Big timber. Did not 
get through untill 9 oclok at night. Had great difficulty in finding grass as the other camps had eat 
it off. A Boy by the name of Judson Persons did not get into Camp but lay out 10 miles from 
camp. 30 miles. 

21st * A cloudy morning. At about 9 oclock the call was made to get up the Horses. I started for 
the Horses which was in the timber about half a mile from camp. I got about two thirds of the 
way to the Horses when one of the most exciting seenes commenced I ever witnessed. I herd the 
report of several guns in quick succession And herd the guard cry Indians, Indians, And in less 
than A minute the timber & Bluffs were lined with mounted Indians charging with all speed upon 
our guard, Horses & camp. They shot at two or three of the guard but missed them. They took 
one of the guard & tryed to carry him off on a horse. He knocked one of them down with his fist 
& got away from them. Some of the Brethren snaped their guns at them but they did not go off. 


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As soon as I herd the report of the guns, & the cry of Indians & saw them driving off our Horses 
& gathering thick & fast upon every hand & being without either horse or arms I run to the camp 
with all speed & gave the Alarm & called upon all to gather their anns & mount their Horses. 
Brothers Kimball, Rockwood, Mathews, & several others sprung onto their Horses with their 
guns & pistols & run to stop the Horses which the Indians were taking away. One party of 
Indians had driven 5 or 6 Horses & Mules over the Hills. Br Kimball took after them. Two 
Indians had gone over the Bluff with my Horse & Mule. Brother Rockwood took after them. At 
the same time about 20 Horses came rushing toward Camp which the Indians had frightend. Br 
Young with great exertion with the assistance of one or two other Brethren succeding in stoping 
them & getting them into Camp. 

As soon as I arived in camp I opened my trunk & took out my belt containing 8 pistol shots & 
harnessed it onto myself as quick as possible put a saddle & bridle onto a broken down Horse for 
the want of a Better one & I mounted without spur or whip & started for the chase after my own 
Horses I Could not travel vary fast over the rough ground & Bluffs on a poor horse but I went as 
fast as I Could. As soon as I left Camp & Began to rise the Bluffs I saw Indians gathering thicker 
& faster upon every hand & began to close in between me & the camp. As I passed by one Indian 
He was priming his gun. But I continued the chase. As soon as my horse & mule got over their 
fright & got out of sight of camp, they tryed to return to camp & troubled the Indians about 
driving them. 

And Brother Rockwood soon came near them And one stoped & met him when they found they 
were overtaken & professed friendship. The other still tried to drive on the Horses. Br Rockwood 
fired A pistol at him & He run & left the Horses & The other Indian left also & Rockwood soon 
started my Horses towards [me]. 

I soon came up to his assistance & some other Brethren Also came up & assisted me in ketching 
them & while I was doing this near 40 Indians surrounded Br Kimball who started for the other 
Horses. Some of the Brethren started to his assistance after I had started for camp with my 
Horses. Indians were also upon evry side of me untill I got into Camp. 

I secured my Horses inside the camp And by this time about 150 warriors had gatherd to gether 
close to our camp All dressed in the greatest stile for a war Charge. And the old Chif began to 
address to the top of his voice the Indians And also our camp, telling us they were good Sioux 
And they thought we were Crows or snakes. When they found they could not get any more of our 
horses & 3 had been retaken which they stole they then professed friendship. 

There was 1 1 Horses taken by the Indians. They numbered at about 200 warriors on the ground & 
well mounted & their was not over 20 of our men including the guard that was engaged in any 
way in stoping the Horses, or saving them or retaking those that were stolen. Br Gould took one 
Indian Horse & all. And Another Indian brought Back Thomas Woolsey's Horse which was 
among the stolen & exchanged him for the Indians Horse. This with my two Horses were the 
ownly ones retaken during the skirmish. 


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But when the Indians gatherd before the camp they saw we as A body were Armed & that we 
knew them & had fed them & treated them kindly while on our way to the valley. The old Chief 
then proposed that we smoke the pipe of peace, And also Said that if our chief pointing to 
President Young would go to their Camp they would smoke with him & give him up the Horses 
which his men had taken. But Brother Young did not feel well & we did not think it prudent for 
him to go. 

While in this conversation Br Kimball who had been out on the chase after the Horses returned 
bare Headed (Having droped his hat). Was accompanied by Br Benson & in riding into camp 
rushed his horse through the midst of the Indians & they fearing some treachery or that He was 
an enemy coming upon them in their rear, they instantly leaped upon their Horses, scattered & 
rushed from the camp some runing into the creek. All appeared in great fright. But as soon as 
they saw there was no evil at hand they returned & took their places & had A harty laugh at their 
fright. 

Br Kimball volunteered to accompanied the Chief into his camp in the place of Br Young that we 
might get our Horses. I volunteered & Also Stephen Markham to go with Br Kimball on the 
expedition. So we three mounted our Horses & set out accompanied by a Frenchman (who could 
speak a little sioux language) & the Indians to find their camp; they told us it was one mile. We 
travled 7 miles over Bluffs & valleys & Came in sight of their Camp some 3 miles from us 
moving towards us. So we Called a halt & waited for them to Come up. They Came & pitched 
about 100 lodges & their was about 600 Indians many women & children & they brought with 
them about 1,000 Horses & mules. Nearly all of them we supposed were stolen from emigrants & 
other tribes. Their encampment presented quite a grand interesting & amusing seenery. 

Among their Horses we readily discoverd ours which was stolen the night we camped with Br 
Grants Company. We lost 49 that night which they had among their number. The old Chief called 
the war Chiefs & placed them on his left hand & ourselves on his right & set down upon the 
grass & filled A large pipe with Kennickenick & smoked & passed it to his Chiefs. They smoked 
& passed it to us. We also smoked. He then pointed to us to pick out our Horses which we 
undertook to do but found it no easy task to pick out 7 or 8 Horses scattered through one 
thousand others for one or two miles up & down the creek. However after a laborious search we 
got all but two that was stolen this morning. 

We then spoke to him about the 49 Horses which they had stolen from us before. They 
acknowledged they had got the Horses & gave us some incouragement of letting us have them 
when they got to Laramie but would not let us have them then. They however let us have one of 
them ownly. The brethren brought about 3 bushels of salt as a present to him. We then returned 
to camp with our Horses which ended the business of the day. 

The camp did not move but few rods. I travled about 18 m. It rained some during the night. 

22d A Cool rainy morning. It seemed to be the equenoxial storm though not vary tedious we 


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thought it wisdom to leave the ground & continue our Journey. We travled 18 miles & camped 
on Bitter creek. We had but little grass but plenty of water. 18 miles. 

23d We travled to day 30 miles & camped at night at the wann spring. We did not get through 
untill 9 oclok at night. The moon shone most Briliantly. We took our Horses forward to the 
spring to water them & then drove our waggons on the south road half a mile. Camped for the 
night. Found some bunch grass for our horses. 30 m. 

24 We rode to Laramie. Br Young Kimball Benson & myself dined with Mr Burdow. We talked 
with Him about our stolen Horses. He infonned us that our company with the ox teams lost every 
Horse they had, but they had got them all back but 5. He gave us some encouragement of sending 
an interpeter with us to get our horses. 

We crossed the Platt & pitched our camp about 3 miles from the fort. 

During the evening President Young Called the camp together And addressed them at some 
length. Appointed 10 men to go & visit the Indians to get the stolen Horses & about 40 men to 
follow after to assist in case of necessity. Br Young gave much instruction upon principle & 
improving upon manners, temper, & interest in the general welfare of the Church & kingdom of 
God. Distance of the day 12 m. 

25th The Companies prepared themselves this morning to start on their expedition. The first 
company of 10 men Commanded By Col Markham started by 9 oclok. The other Company 
numbered 25 men commanded by Br Benson started at 10 oclock. Brs Young & Kimball went to 
the fort. It was not long before both companies returned as they ascertained at the fort that a man 
had gone forward to inform them of our coming & to have them Cash up their Horses We also 
recieved word in the evening that Johnson & Little had returned on the road back, had fallen in 
with Comodore Stockton who was from the Bay of Francisco accompanied with 40 men going to 
the states. Brs Young & Kimball made a purchase of some 50 Buffalo robes which were some 
damaged & un-merchantable. They everaged about $1.50 each. They also bought 3 Cows at $15 
each. During the afternoon I went out on patrool picket guard. 

26th Sunday Brs Johnson & Little reached the fort this morning with 2 other Brethren & brought 
into our camp 10 Horses which they had drove on west to meet us with. We were truly glad to 
see them & their Horses to as they would be some help to us as the Indians had taken so many of 
our horses that we had as much as we could do to get along & our horses are growing poor daily. 

Brs Young & Kimball & others dined with Como-dore Stockton at the fort. I spent the fore part 
of the day washing my Clothes. Rubed the skin of my fingers into the flesh. We Harnessed up at 
3 oclok & drove 3 miles & camped on the platt. Many in Camp are out of both bread & meat. I 
have divided my bread & meat untill I am nearly out myself. 3 m. 

27th We travled 8 miles & fed & took breakfast. We then travled 12 miles & Camped for the 
night on the bank of the Platt in the midst of A Plenty of grass & a grove of cottonwood near A 


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good Harbor for both deer & Indians. We saw several deer And a large drove of Antelope. It was 
A warm plesant day. We mowed grass for our Horses to stand by overnight. 20 mile. 

28th We drove 8 miles & took breakfast. We saw about 40 Indians making off towards the bluffs 
on the south side of the river. We drove 12 miles & Camped on the Platt 5 miles west of scotts 
Bluffs. 20 m. 

29th We passed Scotts Bluffs & took Breakfast. We saw a large Company travling on the 
opposite side of the river. We could not tell whether they were Indians or Capt Stockton & Co. 
They pitched their lodges about 10 miles back of us. We killed one Buffalo Bull to day. 22 miles. 

30th We travled 20 miles & camped on the Bank of the Platt. Mr Bewshaw the Indian traider 
camped on the opposite Bank. Our Brethren got some meat of him. He will come over with his 
Indians & surround some Buffaloo & kill for us in the morning. 

October 

1st 1847 A warm Plesant day. A good share of the camp are out of Bread & meat & they are 
preparing to go out to day to surround A Herd of Buffalo & get some cows. A Company of 
Indians Came over to go to the Hunt & expected us to go with them As we were afterwards 
informed but we did not go untill several hours afterwards. 

We then went in search of them but found neither Indians or dead Buffalo. They came in at night 
& brought some meat with them for themselves but none for us. 

Comodore Stockton Arived at night & camped nearby & said He would like to accompany us. 

2d We were informed this morning that Comodore Stockton Had Changed his mind & concluded 
to go down on the north side of the river. Accordingly He crossed over with his troop. Our 
company Bought some half a dozen horses of Rashaw. We then started on the Journey. 

The Brethren killed A fat Buffalo Cow near the road. We stoped the camp & dressed the meat & 
took it along which detained the camp some. We travled 13 miles & camped on the Platt. 

In the evening Br Markham & myself went out to see if we could get any Buffalo Cows. We saw 
some of the Brethren dressing a young Bull which they had killed. We could not find any cows 
And we would not shoot Bulls though they came so near me I Stoned them off with stones. I was 
quite surprised to see with what expertness the Buffalo would clime the mountains & rocks. They 
would go in places whare Horned Cattle would never think of going. Some steps in the rocks in 
their path was more than 6 feet high in perpendicular rocks. We shot a wolf A deer, stoned A 
Bull & got neither of them & returned to camp. 13 m. 

3d Sunday I left camp as daylight was Appearing in company with Luke Johnson for the purpose 
of Getting some meat. The wolves that had rent the air through the night with their Howls was 
dispersing in all directions as we passed along mounted upon our Horses. They were evry size & 


Page 175 




couler of their race. The beautiful swan in flocks were floating upon the Platt which Aded beauty 
to the seenery. 

We soon saw a large Herd of Buffalo about 6 miles from camp & 2 from the road. We left our 
Horses & stole upon them the best we could. Their Picket guards were frighted several times. We 
managed to quell there fears. Their is no well disiplined Anny of men that are more particular to 
have An old experienced guard on a closs look out than A Herd of Buffalo. 

By going under A bank we passed there guards & lay conceled untill we were surrounded & the 
main bodies of them were coming onto us with A Heavy filanxs of Bulls meeting us in the face 
with Hundreds of cows following in the rear. When they approached within 2 or 3 rods of us we 
thought it quite time to be up & doing even for our own safety. I had a single load in my rifle & 

A Brace of Pistols. Br Johnson had a slide of 6 loads in his rifle. We rose. He fired twice. I 
reserved my fire untill He had discharged his two balls. The whole body broke & run from us. He 
had killed none. 

I fired At a Young cow. Put A Ball through her sholdier But she hobbled over A ridge. Johnson 
mounted A Horse & followed A little distance after them. I walked over the ridge & shot my 
wounded Cow through the Hart strings & lungs & she droped dead which was the ownly one we 
got out of the Herd. 

We travled A few miles further & Br A Lyman killed two more & An Antilope all of which was 
brought into Camp & distributed. Large Herds Came near our Camp in the evening. Distance of 
the day 9 m. 

4th Travled 8 miles & nooned. The Frenchman had killed 4 fat cows. A part was divided in 
camp. 4 Sioux came to us. We travled 8 miles & camped for the night. We have seen immense 
herds of Buffalo through the day near us. Distance of the day 16 m. 

5th This morning at day light A company of 10 men was dispatched on foot to overtake the ox 
teams & stop them untill we should come up As our Horses was breaking down. From A Bord 
stuck in the ground, we learned they had stoped 5 days for us & killed & dryed 30 Buffalo Cows 
& were still about one week ahead of us. 

We travled to day 13 miles & camped opposite Ash hollow. We have constant fine Beautiful 
weather to Journey in. The grass is getting dry & not much substance in it & our Horses are 
failing upon it. I am thoroughly convinced that oxen are far Preferable to either Horses or Mules 
for such a Journey esspe-cially if they return in the fall. Distance 13 miles. 

6th We travled 14 miles & camped on the Bank of the Platt. We overtook 2 of the Brethren who 
went with A Lyman & co to overtake the Ox teams. There was 2 Buffalo cows & 2 calves killed 
to day. 14. 

7th It appeared like a Cold stonn gathering this morning but it sprinkled a little & cleared off. 


Page 176 




We met in the fore part of the day Capt Joseph Walker (Capt Freemont guide through Calafornia) 
also Mr Pappan the main Proprieter of Fort Laramie. He was quite displeased because Burdeau 
did not send an interperter & get our Horses. They informed us the Mexican war was still 
Continued & that 500 troops would be stationed near Winter quarters untill spring. They would 
then go to the Head of Grand Island & build A fort. Also one at Laramie, And one on Green 
River. The Pretention for Building these forts is said to be for the purpose of protecting the 
Oregon Emegrants. 

We sent letters by Capt Walker to the valley via fort Bridger. He informed us that 100 miles 
south of the Utah lake was an excellent country for farming Purposes. 

We continued our Journey & camped near a creek on the Platt & obtained A letter from Wm. 
Clayton one week ahead of us & still going ahead. 13. 

8th We travled 8 miles & nooned. Soon after we stoped A large body of animals appeared in 
sight over the Bluff. We at first thought it was A Band of mounted warriors but By the aid of our 
glasses we found them to be a band of one hundred or more Elk. They made A splended 
appearance. They were about one mile from Camp. Several of us took our guns & went after 
them. They were as large as good sized mules. 

I went up a swail of tall grass. The band came within 10 rods of me their horns waveing in the air 
uphove the weeds like Rockingchairs. The Bucks were in Advance. As the does were the best 
this season of the year I drew my gun to my face & waited for one to come in sight. At this 
instant Another man Came up behind me & they saw him & broke & run. He shot at them as they 
run but did no good. They ran near a Frenchman who shot a doe through the neck & he fell dead 
the ownly one killed out of the Band though several shots were made. 

I got A piece of it for my supper the first Elk meat I ever ate. We travled 7 miles & camped on 
the Bank of the Platt. We crossed many pure streams of water to day. Distance 15 m. 

9th We travled 15 miles & camped on Junktion Bluff fork. We had 2 sandy Bluffs to cross to 
day. Our horses are still failing more & more. 15 m. 

10th Sunday The quorum of the Twelve met together & had a Prayer meeting. The camp moved 
3 miles in the evening to better feed. 3 m. 

1 1th We travled 10 miles & camped on the Platt above the Junktion at 3 oclok I went to the Bluff 
after some Buffalo. I got into A large Herd & shot a Cow but did not fall but went off with the 
Herd. 

In returning to camp darkness overtook me. I Could not see the Camp so I made for the river. I 
had to waid through swails for 20 rods nearly to my hips in mud & water. I passed through the 
mier of plenty of ducks gees swan & wolves. I saw one animal of the Cat kind which I took to be 
a li nk s. 


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I struck the platt 4 miles below camp & got in weary Hungry & weary & learned that Br Egbert 
had killed a Cow & Calf at the Bluffs & a company had gone after them & Could not find the 
camp. Had like myself to wallow through the swails. We had to raise lights on poles to light them 
in. One got lost & did not get in untill 10 oclok. 10 m. 

12th I had A question put to me by President Young what my opinion was concerning one of the 
Twelve Apostles being appointed as the President of the Church with his two Councellors. I 
Answered that A quorum like the Twelve who had been appointed by revelation & confirmed by 
revelation from time to time I thought it would require A revelation to change the order of that 
quorum. * [Asterisk is Woodruffs .] 

We travled 8 miles & nooned. Br Stillman shot A Buffalo cow. I went with my carriage into the 
Bluffs about 2 miles & we dressed it which took untill near night. I shot at 2 Calves & got neither 
of them. We did not get into camp untill 9 oclok at night & Br Stillman & myself worked untill 1 
oclok cutting & salting up meat. I got but little sleep. 16m. 

\* What ever the Lord inspires you to do in this matter I am with you.\ 

13th Our Horses are failing more & more daily. Several gave out today we travled 14 miles & 
camped on the north fork of the Platt. We begin to come again to some timber. Some Buffalo 
were killed to day & large Herds near us. 14 m. 

14th We travled 15 miles & camped on the Platt or rather a slew runing into it. It was cool & 
windy. 15. 

15 th We travled 14 miles to day & camped on the Platt. Nothing of particular interest occured 
during the day. 14 m. 

16th We travled to day out of the Buffalo range & camped on the Platt. Just before Camping our 
Brethren who had been sent on to overtake the ox teams came to us except two continued on. 
They could not gain upon the teams & gave it up. 

Br Luke Johnson Came near being killed by a herd of Buffalo travelling in the night A large herd 
came upon him suddenly & he was caught in the midst of thems & could not get out & the herd 
was some 1 5 minutes passing him & the ownly way He kept them from treading on him was by 
hollowing & striking & punching them with his cane on each side of him as they came along & 
they would open Just wide enough for him to stand as they passed along. 15. 

17th Sunday As we had not meat enough to carry our Camp to winter Quarters it was thought 
wisdom for a company & Hunters to return back A few miles with some waggons to the Buffalo 
Herds & procure some more meat. Twelve of us returned back 10 miles with three waggons. A 
Lyman & myself was among the number. 

We Pitched our camp in a little timber on a slew of water & we killed two Buffalo during the 


Pagel78 




evening & brought in including butchers & teamsters there was about 20 of us & we were all 
Hungry & after cleaning the body of the meat from the bones our company roasted the bones, & 
for our supper & Breakfast we used up the bones of Both Buffaloes. It is almost incredible what 
amount of roasted Buffalo meat A Hungry man will eat without salt or bread & not make him 
sick. There is no other meat known that A man can eat as much of. 

The hump bones of a fat Buffalo roasted is the most choice eating of any meat kind. The leg 
bones are also filled with marrow more Choice than Butter & yield a great quantity which we 
roasted & drank the melted marrow without bread. We should have made A delightful picture for 
An Artist to have drawn the seenery around our fireside. 

After all had eaten to our full satisfaction we prepared to make our beds for the night. It was cold 
& blew a perfect gale. We made choice of A thicket of willows under A bank for our lodging 
place for the night. We lay down on the ground & covered ourselves over with our blankets & 
robes & had a good nights rest. 12. 

18th At daylight 4 of us went to the Bluffs to exhamine the position of the herds of Buffalo. We 
saw many both on the Hills & flats. We returned to camp took our Breakfast of roast meat then 
divided & went out two by two. Luke Johnson went with me about 3 miles from camp, we came 
upon 3 wild Horses upon the side of the Bluff. They were splendid looking Animals but the most 
wild of any Animals I ever saw. 

After returning to the Bluffs we found that the Herds on the upland were travling to the N. & 

N.E. & the ownly way to obtain meat was for the Hunters to confine themselves to the Herds on 
the flat. They did so & killed nine Buffalo. But seven of them was dressed & brought in & 
wolves feasted on the other two. 

We got council from camp for us to return early in the morning & not tary any longer. We travled 
in our Hunt during the day 16 m. 

19th * Early this morning we prepared ourselves to return to camp. The company of Hunters 
started A little before the waggons We had got about A mile on the way when we discoverd 7 
men about 2 miles from us coming from some scattering timber. We at first took them to be 
Indians on foot. We saw they were approaching us. We soon found However they were mounted 
white men. We then thought they were troops. They soon Charged upon us with all speed. We 
stood ready with our anns in hand to meet them. But when they came up to our great surprise & 
Joy we found them to be the Policee of winter Quarters led by Brother Hosea Stout. They 
informed us that 16 of them had Come from Winter Quarters to meet our camp thinking we 
might need some help. The remainder of the party stoped at our main camp. We stoped our teams 
& returned with them to our camp ground & got the Brethren some Breakfast out of the fat 
Buffaio, while this was going on we were busy in asking many questions about our wives & 
Children & friends & affairs at Winter Quarters & they were truly welcome messengers & like 
Angels unto us. 


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It was truly like good news from a far country to Hear from our families & friends once more. 

We travled together through the day And arived in camp at 8 oclok in the evening & had an 
interview with the rest of the Brethren from Winter Quarters. It was truly a happy meeting. 

I spent the evening at Dr Richards waggon reading the papers concerning the Mexican War, the 
Ship fever making devastation through the land, & other Affairs through the United States. It was 
truly interesting day to me. Distance 25. 

20th The meat we had killed this morning was divided in camp. We then continued our Journey. 

It had much the appearance of a Cold Stonn from the north East. It did rain some during the day. 
We travled 30 miles & camped upon grand Island. It was A tedious Cold day & night. We fed 
our Horses on rushes & cotton wood. 30 m. 

21st We travled 16 miles & camped on wood river. Fed our Horses on rushes & cotton wood. It 
has been Cold to day. 16 m. 

22nd We travled 14 miles & camped on the open prairie by A slew of water. I have taken Cold & 
did not feel well to day. 14. 

23rd We crossed the country 23 miles to day over broaken sandy land to the Lou fork of the Platt 
& camp on the bank of the stream at the ford. It was A wann plesant day. We had nothing but dry 
grass to feed our Horses on at night which is poor feed to work on. 23 miles. 

24th Sunday We tried to ford the Lou fork. Several men crossed on Horse back. There Horses 
fell & plunged the men into the water. Several waggons followed. Horses got stalled into the 
quick sand & waggons had to be Hailed out by Hand & it was given up for the day. The Camp 
moved down the river one mile & camped for the day. It was vary cold & windy & a snow storm 
at night which made it bad on our poor weak Horses. We cut down cotton wood trees & fed them 
on the limbs. 

25th } We spent about 2 Hours searching for a ford. The water was cold. Some snow on the 
ground in the morning. It disappeared after the sun got up. We found a ford and all got over 
much better than we expect[ed?]. Some of the first teams got down & had to be helped out. 

As soon as the road was packed we went well. We travled 10 miles & camped on the platt at an 
old Indian town. A Company was fitted out for winter Quarters. I wrote A letter to Mrs 
Woodruff. 10. 

26th We travled to day 20 miles & camped at the old Pawnee Missionary Station whare we 
stoped going up. The missionaris had been reinstated & built several buildings during the 
summer but the sioux had come down & drove them off again. We put our Horses into A small 
patch of oats. We went through the Com fields that had been gatherd to try to glean a little com 
for our Horses. I worked 3 Hours & got 1 1/2 bushels of ears. Distance of the day 20. 


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27th We travled 25 miles & camped whare the Pawnees visited while going up. We got in late & 
fed on cotton wood. 25 miles. 

28th We travled 23 miles & camped on shell creek. 23. Shuah Carter Woodruff was born 5 oclok 
this morning. 

29th We travled 25 miles & camped at the liberty pole. Fed on cotton wood & rushes. 25. 

30th We travled 15 miles & camped on the east side of the Horn. We met in the Afternoon & 
arange-ments was made about going to Winter Quarters on the morrow the order of going &c. 

15. 

A company of about 20 waggons arived about sundown from winter Quarters to meet us. 

Brothers Cutler Whitney & many other friends were among the number & we were truly glad to 
meet with them. They brought Corn for our Horses & food for ourselves & we had quite A feast 
for supper. Br John Fulmer gave me an account of the progress of the Mexican war. That Gen. 
Scott had taken Mexico with the loss of 1,700 men killed & many wounded & no prospect of 
peace. We spent A good share of the night in conversing upon a variety of subjects. 15. 

3 1st Sunday A strong wind. We All got our Breakfast & organized for going to Winter Quarters. 
The company that came out to met us went in front & our encampment followed. We had A hard 
days drive As our Horses were worn down. We travled hard through the day. When within About 
one mile of Winter Quarters We made A Halt And the company was drawn up in order & 
Addresed by President Young & dismissed. 

We drove into the city in order. The streets were lined with people to shake hands as we drove 
along. Each one drove to his own home. I drove up to my own door & was truly rejoiced to once 
more behold the face of my wife & children again after being absent over six months And having 
travled with the Twelve & the Pioneers near 2,500 miles & sought out a location for the Saints 
And Accomplished one of the most interesting mishions ever accomplished at the last days. 

Mrs Woodruff had been confined with A daughter 3 days previous to my arival. Mother & 
daughter doing well. All was cheerful Happy & we felt it A blessing to again meet. Distance 
from the Horn 30 m. 


November 

Nov 1st The first day of winter. We found on our arival that the Brethren at winter quarters had 
been also greatly blessed in there labours in tilling the earth that it had brought forth abundance 
of com Buckwheat turnips & other vegitables & the city was full of Hay & surrounded with corn. 
I had many calls during the day. I made my aranged my business with Br Stillman & others. 

2d I spent the day with Br Benbow getting polls for a stable & yard. 

3rd I spent the day in council with the quorum of the Twelve. Council was given to Br Little & 


Pagel81 




going east [ ^ I wrote 6 letters which I sent by Col Little to the following persons: Col 

Kane, I F Carter, Ezra Carter sen, Sarah B Foss, Shuah Moulton & Leonard Hardy. We herd an 
interesting letter read from capt Dan Jones of Wales. He could represent 1,000 Saints in that 
land. Other letters were also read. 

4th I spent the day making A stable & writing. 

5th j_ I spent the day in writing & attending Council with the Twelve. Col Little & others left to 
day. We had some rain during the evening. 

6th We had a Cold North East rain through the day. I got thoroughly wet. I held A meeting 
during the evening with our company organization. We appointed Captains to fill the places of 
those who had gone to the Bason & began to right up the company again. Several of the Brethren 
subscribed some com & Buckwheat to assist my stock & family. We had a good time to gether. 

7th Sunday I held A meeting with our ward & gave an account of our Journey to the mountains & 
back. The High Council met in the Afternoon & Seventies in the evening. 

8th I met in Council with the Twelve. Br Hyde was with us & gave an account of his mission in 
England. Many things was spoken of. 

9th I met in Council with the Twelve & High Council. 

10th I met in Council with the Twelve & High Council. Br Cutler Had A mission Appointed him. 
The Merchant & Br Wooley was present. The feelings of the council was to let all merchants 
come among us & bring as many goods as they please. 

1 1th I spent the day drawing Corn & straw. 

12th Br Phelps returned to day. 

13th We met in council with the Twelve & Br Phelps gave an account of his mission during the 
season & the state of public feeling upon a variety of subjects. He obtained A press type & paper 
to take over the mountains 

During the evening [-] I met in council with the Twelve & it was considerd wisdom for the 
Elders & some of the Twelve to go into the vineyard. 

14th Sunday Most of the Twelve met with the congregation at the stand & gave an account of our 
journey & the country which we had sought out in the great Bason. 

I went over the river & held a meeting with the Saints on the east side of the river, & then rode 
12 miles up the Boyia & held a meeting with A neighbourhood of saints & spend the night at Br 
Knoltons. 14 m. 

15th I returned to winter Quarters with Br Potter & met in Council with the Twelve. O Pratt 
introduced the subject of the of the standing & rights of the President & also of the quorum. O 


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Pratt was followed by G. A. Smith W. Woodruff & A Lyman & council Adjurned untill 
tomorrow at 10 oclok. 

16th Council met according to adjournment & was called a Council of social conversation & 
many interesting remarks were made by the Quorum & closed by President Young who 
expressed his views at length upon the subject of yesterday & A vote was taken that the President 
shall at all times have the privlege of reproving, rebuking, exhorting & teaching at all times as he 
shall be led by the Holy Ghost. Council dissmissed. 

17th A Hard rainy day. I spent the time at home. 

18th A Cold day. I went over the river. Found some of my cattle & returned home with 2 fish 
And A wild turkey. 

19th I spent the day at home. 

20th I spent the day Choreing. 

21st Sunday I met at the stand some of the Twelve & the congregation. O Pratt addressed the 
congregation upon the subject of the resurrection which was interesting to us all. Some had been 
teaching the doctrin that the resurrection was by birth or through the womb but Br Pratt showed 
the folly of such a doctrin, & Proved by many revelations that the dead were raised by the power 
of God & the Blowing of the Trump of Michael the Ark Angel who was Father Adam & that the 
graves of the Saints would be opened & their Bodies would come forth out of their graves 
according to the visions of Ezekiel & many of the prophets. He showed that However miracalous 
it might appear unto us it was Just as easy for God to perform this work as it was to turn water 
into wine or make Bread without flour to feed a multitude. W Woodruff followed Br Pratt & bore 
testimony to what had been said & spoke in the spirit of the Lord. 

22d I went on the east side of the river & several Brethren donated a load of corn to me. I spent 
the day in picking it up. I obtained about 12 bushels of com 2 bushels of turnips 2 bushels of 
Buckwheat & brought it across the ferry. 

23d Br Bills Started for Mo with my team after wheat. I went to council with the Twelve & 70. 
Most of the time was spent in picking out names to go on a mission. We chose 30 High priest 80 
of the quorum of seventies. 

24th I Called upon the division to assist me in getting wood. I went with my own team. Though it 
was an exeeding cold day we got up [4/5?] loads of wood. 

25th I spent most of the day in getting 2 bushels of buckwheat ground for the mill was crouded to 
overflowing with bags men, women, & Children all (but the bags) pleading to get grinding done. 

26th I spent the day at home Choreing. 

27th In company with G. A. Smith I crossed the river & rode to Br Millers Settlement & spent 


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the night with Br Guyman & conversed with one of the Battalion who returned with Gen Carney. 
Be gave an account of their journey. 14 m. 

28th Sunday I met a large congregation of Saints at the meeting house & addressed them for one 
hour & was followed by G A Smith. We had a good meeting. I also preached in the evening to Br 
Kelly's & had the spirit of the Lord. I spent the night with Br Kelly. 6 m. 

29th I returned home to winter Quarters. Drove home some cattle for Br Bills. There was A 
meeting in the evening for those who were going out Preaching. Br Young addressed them. I was 
not present. 14 m. 

30 I met in Council with the Twelve & the Presidents of the seventies. Wm. W. Phelps & Br 
Jacobs was Called before the Council for taking an improper Course in some things. Br Jacobs 
was mostly cleared & the blame fell upon Br Phelps. The decision of the president was that Br 
Phelps should go forth into the waters of Baptism & repent of his sins. Much council was given 
upon the subject. How strange it is that the Elders of Israel will transgress the Laws of God while 
abroad in the vineyard. 

The subject of Appointing three of the Twelve As the Presidency of the Church. Br Young said 
by persuing this course it would liberate the quorum of the Twelve that they might go to the 
Nations of the earth to preach the gospel. Many remarks were made upon the subject & council 
Adjourned. 


December 

Dec 1 st 1 847 I spent the day at home choreing. 

2d In company with the quorum of the Twelve I crossed the river & rode to the miller settlement. 
Br Richards and myself spent the night with Henry Miller. 12 m. 

3d The Twelve met in conference with the Saints on the east side of the river according to 
previous Appointment. President Young Addressed the meeting & was followed by G. A. Smith 
A Lyman & W. Woodruff in the fore noon & in the Afternoon by H C Kimball & B Young And 
conference adjourned untill next day. The most of the twelve spent the night at Br Daily's. 

Elder Appleby Arived in our raids from Philadelphia & spent the evening with us & gave us 
much infonnation concerning the wars & the state of the Nations & brought us A card of gold 
pens one for each of the Twelve As A present from Col Kane. He also gave an account of the 
state of the churches in the east. We Also learned that many who had been enemies to the church 
were dead. Jackson who had A hand in the death of the Prophet died in Mexico with the black 
vomit. Mr Eagle is also dead. We were informed that Gen Harding, Maj Warren & capt Morgan 
with Half of the Quincy grays were killed in the Mexican war. O Pratt & myself spent the night at 
Br Guymans. 

4th Met in conferance according to adjournment. G A. Smith addressed the meeting A few 


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moments but the House was so crouded we could not do business. President Young Also made 
some remarks & the Conference was Adjurned for 3 weeks & the conference resolved to go to 
immediately & build A large log meeting House for the people to meet in. Henry Miller was 
Appointed the committee, & about 200 gave their names to go to work immediately at it. It was 
to be built about 65 by 40 in the clear but was to be under the direction of the Twelve. 

After meeting the Twelve rode to Br Chase & spent the night. I spent the night with Br Isaac 
Behannan & Elie Chase. 15. 

5 Sunday We rode to Br O. Hydes & spent the day & night. We had / / / An interesting time. We 
had a good feast & went into council, & Br Brigham Young expressed his feelings Concerning 
the organizing of the Church & Appointing A first Presidency. This subject lies with wait upon 
my mind. I have been stired up to do this by the spirit of the Lord. He wished all of the quorum 
present to express their feelings upon this subject begining at the oldest & each one of the 
following persons expressed their feelings in rotation: H. C. Kimball O. Hyde, O. Pratt, W 
Richards W. Woodruff G A. Smith A. Lyman & E T Benson & many interesting remarks were 
made by the various individuals who spoke, & We were followed by President Young After 
which Orson Hyde moved that Brigham Young be the President of the Church of Jesus Christ of 
Latter Day Saints & that He nominate his two Councellors & they form the three first Presidency. 
Seconded by W. Woodruff & carried unanimously. 

President Young Nominated Heber C Kimball As his first counceller. Seconded & carried 
unanimously. President Young nominated Willard Richard as his second councellor. Seconded & 
carried unanimously. Many Appendages to this subject was conversed upon with much interest. 
We then adjourned. 

Went into Br Hydes House & Had a feast of pie & strawbury wine & retired to rest. 

6th We went into council this morning. Several subjects were conversed upon. One was our 
posterity in this world & the osprings of immortal Celestial & Resurrected beings in the world to 
come. President Young remarked that our children in this life did not look just like their parents 
but was A variety in looks &c & the ospring of Celestial beings were spiritual Bodies. 

Wm. W. Phelps was cut off from the church for Breaking the laws of God. It was decided in 
Council that if a man lost his wife He was at liberty to marry again whare He pleased and was 
Justifyed. 

Lather John Smith was Appointed by the quorum of the Twelve As the first patriarch over the 
whole Church. 

President Young said the Twelve were at liberty to publish papers in any part of the world whare 
they should be or take the best course to spread the work. The twelve should superintend the 
printing wharever they were. And If the Twelve were going abroad it would be well to ordain 
Elders out of new members that were baptized & take with them to preach & there should ownly 


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one of the Twelve go to one place & Call seventies to their assistance. Our counsel adjourned. 

E T Benson & myself rode to Elder Greens Branch & attended meeting. B Clapp & Joseph 
Young Preached. W Woodruff & E T Benson followed them. We had a good meeting. We spent 
the night at Br Carters. 10 m. 

7th We rode [to] Br Dailys. 3 miles. It rained. Hailed & froze, which made bad travling. We 
found the brethren building the meeting House. In the Afternoon in company with B Young H C 
Kimball W. Richards I rode through a cold Hail storm to the ferry & Had some difficulty in 
getting across the river. 16 mile. I spent the night at home. 

8th I went into the woods with Br Benbow & got A load of willows. I spent the evening at the Dr 
office Hearing letters read. 

9th I met in council with the Twelve & the presidency of the seventies. John D Lee was brought 
up for trial for improper conduct with his family. After Hearing the testimonie upon the subject 
President Young reproved Br Lee vary sharply for trying to cover his faults & Justify himself in 
his errors for it was evident he had done wrong. President Brigham Young backed up Br Joseph 
Youngs reproof, & reproved Br Lee himself & required him to call his family together And to 
settle his difficulties. * 

I was in council with Br Young in the evening And part of the evening I spent at his house. 

10th I killed A pig weighing about 150 lbs, & finished our stables. 

1 1th I spent the day at home choping wood. 

12th Sunday I preached in our ward at Br Pulsiphers & spent the evening at Br W. Richards. 

13 th I bought of Br Wild 220 lbs of pork & cut it up & salted it down. 

14th I spent the day at home & had A prayer meeting in our school House. 

15th I spent the day at home choreing. 

16th I met in council with the Twelve & High council. The subject of tighing, taxation, Policee 
&c was brought up. President Young remarked that there was A great difference between the 
tighing & taxes for tighing was A standing law of God for one tenth was required of evry man & 
woman who was the head of the family & that would probably [be the law] of the Church untill 
the coming of Christ. But taxes was leved according to circumstances. 

17th I spent the day at home. 

18th I went into the woods with several Brethren to get wood. We got 4 loads. 

19th Sunday I met in Council with the Twelve & herd the epistle of the Twelve read & other 
letters. In the Afternoon we met with the High Council. During the evening I met with the 


Page 186 




seventies. I addressed them in the spirit of the Lord. Br Dykes spoke to the meeting concerning 
his own affairs. 

20th I spent the day at home. 

21st j_ I met in council with the quorum of the Twelve. We herd the epistle read & corrected. We 
then went into council with the Presidency of the Seventies And Milo Andrews was brought up 
on trial for Abusing his wife turning her away & marrying another. 

Br H. C. Kimball Addressed the Council & said that He had been to the mountains & got an 
endowment & felt it in his bones & wanted to talk a little. He said the day had come when 
iniquity Could not be harboured in the church. And men because they belong to my family or Br 
Brigham Youngs family will not be screened in wickedness. I would even turn over to the law of 
God sons out of my own loins if they done wrong. Will I suffer iniquity to go unpunished in 
others more than in my own sons? I tell you nay. Br Andrews has been adopted into my family. 
But let the law of God have its demand upon him if it takes his head off for A man had better 
enter into life maimed than into Hell with all his members. 

The Accusations Against Br Andrews were then read. Some He Acknowledged to & some were 
proven against him After which President Young Addressed the meeting in an interesting manner 
& gave good teaching. 

He said A man by seeking that which did not belong to him would loose that which He seemeth 
to have As in this case Br Andrews by unlawfully marrying this woman is now left without any 
wife. There is no Elder in this Church [who has] any right to marry A woman to a man who has 
A living wife. 

Many men act like fools as soon as they get an idea that women should obey their husbands & be 
passive in their hands. They will go to the woods & get a bundle of sticks & commence whiping 
their wives to make them obey them. In the first place A Husband should be a righteous man A 
man of God & ruled his houshold in righteousness & govern his wife with kindness & love & not 
with A rod, club, or his fist. His conduct to his wife should be such that she will love him with all 
of her heart. And he should pray to God that his wife & children which are jewels given him 
might be saved & not taken from him that not any thing need be lost which the father hath given 
him. 

He said that many men through their conduct would have taken from them that which they had & 
given to another. He said that when A man had A jewel given to him he ought to prize it & 
treasure it up & take good care of it & in process of time other jewels might be given him of the 
Lord. But He should not undertake to steal them for He could not keep them. 

And A man should not be in a hurry to obtain any blessing or exhaltation that is not for him & 
when he has proved himself faithful in all things before God there is no good thing that will be 
withheld from him in time or Eternity & many other good instructions were given. 


Page 187 




President Joseph Young followed with interesting remarks & gave it as his opinion that Br 
Andrews ought to be Cut off from the Church for Adultery. Most of the quorum of the Twelve 
spoke upon the subject Also the presidents of the Seventies After which it was moved & carried 
that Milo Andrews be cut off from the Church for Adultery. It was Also moved And carried that 
the woman be cut off from the Church for Adultery. It was moved & carried that they both be left 
in the hands of the Presidents of the Seventies. Meeting then Adjurned And the Twelve went into 
the recorders office & met in council. 

23d I met in council with the Twelve. The Epistle was read prepared for the Press. Some other 
letters read. 

23d I went over the river with the quorum of the Twelve and spent the night at Council Point. We 
had a good meeting. I addressed the meeting and was followed by Brother Joseph Young. We 
had A good meeting. 10 m. 


LOG MEETING CONFERENCE 

24th This Conference was opened at 10 oclok according to appointment. Prayer By O. Pratt. W. 
Woodruff Addressed the meeting upon the object of calling the conference & was followed by O 
Pratt upon the same subject. Much interesting teaching & instruction ws given through the day by 
A number who addressed the meeting. The Brethren on that side of the river during the last three 
weeks had built A Log Tabernacle for this & other Conferences [-] by [1/47J0. We felt that they 
had done A great work in so short A time. After doing the business of the day the quorum of the 
Twelve spent the evening in council at Br Richards. I spent the night at Br Guymans. 

Presidents Young & others of the Twelve upon A variety of subjects such as emegrating to the 
west. The Brethren on the east side of the river to assist President Young & others on the west 
side with teams & waggons. Much interesting] teaching & council was given through the day. 
And their was Also Preaching in the evening. 

The Twelve met in council in the evening & spoke of Appointing the first Presidency during the 
conference and Also named several men to fill up the quorum of the Twelve but it was not 
decided who should be the men to fill up that quorum. 

26th Sunday The Conference Assembled at 10 oclok And was Addressed by Elder Appleby in an 
interesting manner upon the Political state of the world the gathering of the Jews at Jerrusalem & 
many other interesting things. He was followed by Br Kimball Lyman Benson & others who 
spoke in the power of God. During the evening the meeting was Adressed by Professor Pratt & 

W. Woodruff. Both had the spirit of speaking. We numbered the People & they were found to be 
about 800 in the House. I spent the night as usual with Br Richards. 

27th A larger number than ever assembled this morning About 1,000 souls got into the House. 
Elder Kimball Addressed the meeting this morning in the Power of God. Rebuked wickedness 
and sin & warned all to repent of their transgressions. The names of the seventies was then called 


Page 188 




over And President Young remarked that it would not be necessary to put them or be organized 
into quorums while here but remain in a body under their presidents untill they arived at the 
valley. That while any quorum of the seventies of twelve were full though they might be 
scattered to the fore comers of the earth would not be filled up in Zion or any place. But when 
there was A vacancy by death or Aposticy then the vacancy might be filled. 

We learned from Presidents Youngs teaching that it was necessary to keep up A full organization 
of the Church through all time as far as could be. At least the three first Presidency quorum of the 
Twelve Seventies, and Patriarch over the whole Church &c so that the devil could take no 
Advantage of us. 

The subject was discused or spoke upon by O. Pratt concerning the Appointing of the first 
Presidency And Patriarch over the whole Church. Others spoke upon the subject. It ws then 
moved seconded and carried universally that Brigham Young be the President over the whole 
Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. President Young then Nominated Heber C. Kimball 
to be his first Councellor which was seconded And carried unanimously. President Young then 
Nominated Wilard Richards as his second councellor which was seconded And Carried 
universally. It was then moved seconded And carried universally that President John Smith be 
the Patriarch over the whole church. 

Much important and interesting instruction was given upon these And other subjects among 
which was the subject of the resurrection spoken upon by President Young. He said there was 
nothing more to be learned by the people upon the subject than what was written. The subject 
was made plain in the Bible and other revelations & it was not a subject that we wanted to use & 
at the present time as we had not come to the resurrection But there was no person except A 
resurrected body who held the Keys of the resurrection. Michael the Ark Angel or Ancient of 
Days who was Father Adam held the Keys of the resurrection. 

The Conference Adjourned untill 10 oclock on the 6th day of next April. 

During the evening the people met with the band of music at the tabernacle & spent the evening 
in music, singing & dancing. 

28th In Company with the Twelve I crossed the river on the Ice & returned to winter quarters. I 
was nearly sick, when I reached home & had been was nearly sick, when I reached home & had 
been nearly all the time at conference. 12 m. 

29th I Attended A Council with the Presidency & High council And herd the report of Br Cutler 
who had been on a mission to the South. His report was interesting. It showed the Lord was 
opening doors for the further progress of the work in the earth esspecially among the Lamanites. 
May the Lord Hasten the work. The Brethren put up my chimney to day which had fallen down. 

30th I spent the day at home Choreing. Br Alger brought me a load of corn to day. It was A damp 
wet day. Br Wild spent the evening with me. 


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3 1st ? This is the last day of 1847. 1 went to the mill and got 8 bushels of wheat ground. I had An 
interview with President Young in the morning upon A variety of subjects among which was the 
object of going east on a mission. We were introduced to Mr Mulholand from Nauvoo And herd 
letters read from there. Help me keep thycommandments O Lord. 


Thus end annother Year which has been interesting and important year to the Saints. The Twelve 
Apostles with their brethren, one hundred and fourty three souls As pioneers have made A 
journey more than one thousands miles to the Rocky mountains And sought out A place for A 
city, A stake of Zion, And A Temple of the Lord that the saints may have A place to flee to while 
the indignation of the Lord passeth over the nation that hath driven them out. Our Journey to the 
mountain, & back again to winters Quarters with Horse mule, and Ox teams has been over 2,000 
miles. More than half of the Journey we have had to make new roads & with all of our exposures, 
sickness, & dangers not A Human life has been lost but all returned in safety. And what is more 
singular still, not A Horse mule ox, cow, or calf was lost either going or returning except 2 
Horses shot by disobeying council. 

The blessing of the Lord has been great upon us as A people during the past Year in all the 
various portions of the camp of Israel. 

We have now found A place to build A Stake of Zion whare the people can gather toagether & 
build up Zion. The past year has shown forth the fulfillment of Prophecy in the wars, rumours of 
wars, famins, Pestilence, distress of nations with perplexity And in many of the signs of the 
times. The United States in their wars with the feble Nation of Mexico have involved themselve 
in a debt of one hundred and fifty millions of dollars besides the loss of twenty five thousand 
men & twice that number to Mexico And their own expenses in the war. The famine has raged in 
Ireland, the cholera through Europe. The breaking of Banks & merchants has distressed the 
people in England. The Baron Rothchilds the rich Jew has become A member in the British 
Parliament which is A new eary in the History of the Jews, & they the Jews are gathering home 
to Jerrusalem by thousands. What 1848 will bring to pass in the History of the Church and 
Kingdom of God time must detennin And also in the History of the Nations of the Earth. May 
the LORD hasten the gathering of Israel & the Building up of Zion for Jesus Christ Sake Amen. 

The following Page contains A synopsis of my travels during the year of 1847 . 


I Travelled 2,619 Miles 

The above distance was mostly from Council Bluffs 
across the Rocky mountains to the great salt lake, 
great Bason, North America And back again. 


Page 190 





1 attended with the Twelve 

56 Councils 

With the High Council 

15 Councils 

1 Preached to the Saints 

33 times 

I Baptized 

3 Persons 

1 Confirmed 

122 Persons 

I Ordained 

1 Bishop 

Of the Quorum of Seventies 

1 

1 Blessed 

12 Children 

1 Administered unto 

30 Sick Persons 

I Wrote 

14 Letters 

1 Received 

6 Letters 


Willford Woodruffs Journal for 1848 

* 


January 

Saturday January 1st 1848 During the evening in company with Mrs Woodruff I went to Br 
Wilds to spend A new years evening. 

2d Sunday I met with the Saints in our ward. I addressed them & was followed by Br Pulsipher. 
Br Kington Arived from garden grove & spent the night with me. 

3 I went with Br Kington to the office to meet in council with President Young But He was sick 
& not able to attend And we returned home. 

4th President Young was still sick yet we met in Council with him at his room. The Affairs of 
Garden groves was talked over & the Twelve nominated Brs Scoval & Groves to go with Br 
Kington & settle the affair. 

During the evening we had a meeting at the school house. Br Kington spoke. Was followed by 
Brothers Pulsipher, Porter, & several of the Sisters. The meeting then closed by A spirited 
address from W Woodruff. Br Kington spent the night with me. 

5th 1 spent the day at home writing. 

6 1 spent the day at home writing. 


Pagel91 




7 In Company with Mrs Woodruff I met with the quorum of the Twelve & their Ladies to partake 
of a feast composed of two large fat wild turkies & other rich food prepared by Samuel Wooley. 
We had an interesting feast & conversation upon a variety of subjects among which was the spirit 
of God and Holy Ghost. 

It was remarked that the spirit of God en-lighteneth every man that cometh into the world. And 
when a man was baptized for the remission of sins & hands laid upon him for the gift of the Holy 
Ghost that blessing was sealed upon him & tarried with him if he was faithful & as light would 
recieve light & truth embrace truth the more of the Holy Ghost A man had the more power he 
would have & the more of the Holy Ghost would still cleave unto him and other subjects were 
spoken of. We spent the evening and returned home. 

8th I Spent the day at home. In the evening I went to the council House with Brs Kington & 
Benbow & the Twelve & herd the Presidents message of the U.S. read which took two hours & a 
half to read. 

9th Sunday In company with Br Kington I went to Br Phineas Richards & Preached to the people. 
I spent the evening at home. 

10th I spent the day at home. The following is the address of Br W. J. Appleby Recklesstown 
IV. 0/ Birlington co N.J. 

1 1th I spent the day drawing wood And in the evening attended the ward meeting. 

12th I took my family out to a ride in the carriage. I rode through the great com field. 2 1/2 miles 
through it. Saw large flocks of prairie Chickens. I shot one and brought it home. 10 m. 

13th Luther Scammans Address is Lamoille, Bureau Co 111. He is situated 14 miles from Peru the 
tennination of the canal 100 from Chicago 150 from Nauvoo. I wrote him A letter to day 
informing him that we should probably visit him in the spring on our way east. I also wrote A 
letter to Br Appleby. 

14th & 15 I spent the time at home choreing. 

16th Sunday I took my wife & children into my carriage & crossed the river on the ice And rode 
to the Log taberacle to Attend the meeting, which opened at 1 1 oclock there being present B. 
Young G. A Smith & W Woodruff of the Twelve. G A Smith opened the meeting by Prayer And 
W Woodruff addressed the assembly upon the subject of their being one in all things & the 
gathering of Israel, Building up of Zion, &c. And was followed by President Young who made 
many good remarks. 

/ He said the Lord would give his spirit to teach and instruct from the private member to the 
President of the church but he will never give any man or woman his spirit to dictate & direct his 
file leader. He related an anacdote of A female runing A race upon a great wager. Lost it by 


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stoping on the way to pick up A Jewel. 

He said truly that if we were not one we were not the Lords. 

In speaking of the duties of the Priesthood He said if this people holding the Priesthood should 
settle down & go to cultivating the earth & entirely neglect the preaching of the gospel the earth 
would open & swallow them up & Hide them from his sight. The whole day & evening was 
taken up in teaching & council. 

17th The fore part of the day was taken up in business & teaching & council. The spirit of the 
Lord was with the people. Among other subjects President Young spoke upon the subject of 
danceing & said that danceing was not an ordinance of the gospel or of the House of the Lord. 

But the organization of man is such that it requires A variety. Singing stimulates the whole 
system & the mental mind to such a degree that they want to dance. This is well enough in its 
place. Every thing that is calculated to fill the soul with Joy is ordained of God & is proper for 
the Saints if they acknowledge God in all things & do not sin. But dont mingle with the wicked 
world & sin but serve the Lord with it. And the ownly lawful place to dance is in a temple or a 
place of endowments. You will never see any music or danceing in Hell neither Joy or gladness 
will be there but these things will be in Heaven. Many other interesting remarks were made. 

The afternoon & evening was spent in music and danceing. The old grey headed man, with the 
young man, maiden and children went forth in the dance together & praised the Lord in the dance 
and all was peace and Harmony. 

18th The fore part of this day was Also spent in teaching & giving council. The Twelve occupied 
most of the time. 

Two petitions were presented to the meetings for signitures one for A county in the Potawattame 
tract of land in Iowa And the other for A Post Office. And the People were signing them daily. Br 
Henry Miller and others were appointed to go to the Legislature of the State of Iowa to petition 
for the county & $30 were raised by the people to bear their expenses. Many interesting speaches 
were made by the people. 

The afternoon & evening of this day was Also spent in singing music & danceing. And at the 
close of the evening this congregation were dismissed & other branches of the Church were to 
take it to morrow as all could not get into the House at the same time. 

19th We had A new & full congregation to day. The fore part of the day was taken up as usual 
with teaching instruction & council & the spirit of the Lord was with us. The After noon & 
evening was as usual spent in singing, music, & danceing. Square Merit, the Soux Indian agent, 

A Major, capt & Lieut, from Fort Camey were present And seemed to be pleased with the 
Appearance of things. 

20th This is the last day of our meeting with the Saints at the Log tabernacle. The congregation 
was addressed at some length by Br G. A. Smith upon A variety of subjects giving advise to the 


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saints not to locate on the river bottom but go to the bluffs & north whare there is a plenty of 
timber & open farms whare there is plenty of room. Also advised them to pay their tithing & not 
admit of making use of Ardent spirits, & spoke upon other subjects & was followed by W 
Woodruff who backed up the testimony of Br Smith after which several business matters were 
taken up. 

The Afternoon & evening as usual was spent in singing, music, & dancing. At the close President 
Young addressed the meeting in an interesting manner, And said He wished the Saints to get so 
quick in their understandings that when they herd his rex that they might know his whole sennon 
without his preaching it or stoping to explain evry item. And his text was now let the Saints stop 
dancing for if you get up parties all over the country here and go to danceing sin and iniquity will 
grow out of it. But all has been right here thus far. I have watched you & all has been in quiete & 
peacable & good order & the spirit of the Lord has been here. And the President dissmissed the 
people pronounceing the Blessings of God upon the people. 

I with several other of the brethren spent my time with Br Richards who was vary kind in 
entertaining the Saints. 

21st We all returned home to our dwellings in winter Quarters. It had been exeeding warm & 
ples-ant during our whole visit at the Log tabernacle meeting & we found all well on our return 
home. Brs Babitt, H. Kimball & Snider arived from Nauvo & returned to Winter Quarters with 
us & brought some papers giving an account of the wars & distress of nations with famine 
Pestilence & Judgment. 

22d I spent the day at home choreing. 

23 Sunday I Preached to the saints in my ward. Was followed by Brs Pulsipher & Porter & we 
had a good time. 

And in the evening I went to the Council House And met with A large assembly. Professor Pratt 
addressed them quite lengthy upon Asstronomy Philosophy, and various principles which he had 
studied much upon And also read a lengthy document which he had written which was highly 
interesting to us. 

He advised the seventies to devote all of their leasure moments to reading & Study & fulfdl the 
commandments which says we should treasure up wisdom & knowledge by faith & by study out 
of the best Books that we may have a knowledge of things in heaven & on earth of kingdoms & 
Countries things which are at home & abroad, the wars perplexities of nations & c. 

In the lecture given by Professor Pratt He intirely overthrows many of the systems of modern 
Phylosiphers & Asstronomiers & modern reasoning in many respects to overthrow the gentile 
Christian Argument "that God made the Heavens sun, moon, & stars And the earth & all that in 
them are out of nothing in six days. He said that it was admitted by modem Phylosophers that 
stars had been discoverd through telescopes so remote from the earth that it would take thirty 


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thousand years for the light of it to reach this earth though it should travel at the rate of two 
hundred thousand miles per second. So it must have been in exhistance 24,000 years before this 
earth was formed. 

He overthrows the principle of Immateriality & clearly shows that God, Angels, spirits, are 
material as well as men, beasts, vegitables, minerals, &c. That matter is eternal & infinite without 
end or bounds & that space is infinite without bounds or end that matter, the elements, 
intelligence were not created neither indeed can be & were from all eternity & that God fonned 
the Heavens & earth out of unorganized materials or matter which did exhist in some form & 
were not made out of nothing. 

In speaking of the spirit of God He remarked to me that the Holy Spirit that was through all 
things, and round about all things, & that governed & controlled all things are intelligent atoms 
the same as God is composed of. Hence it is called the spirit of God, & he had no dobt but that 
there were some of these Atoms combined in all the mineral, vegitable, & animal Kingdoms & 
by the aid of those intelligent atoms were enabled to abide the law by which they were governed. 
Many other interesting principles were presented by Professor Pratt. 

When he Closed I followed him And exhorted the people to listen to his council & improved 
their time. I also advised the camp to hold meetings in each ward on Sunday & prayer meetings at 
least one evenings in each week. That if they would pray more they would have much less spirit 
of Complaining among them. I remarked that the spirit of the Lord & the spirit of the devil would 
not dwell together but A short time in the same person or tabernacle but one would govern & the 
other leave. 

I also warned the people against judging any matter whatever untill they herd both sides of the 
question for in most all cases any person would be apt to give a wrong judgment by merely 
hearing one side of the question, And that the Elders could not be in possession of any to much 
truth upon any subject whatever in order to magnify there callings among the nations of the earth 
for if they should be called to stand before Kings Princes, Asstronomiers Phylosophiers & the 
learned of the earth they would find use for all there knowledge. 

24th I met in Council with the Twelve & High Council & herd a Charge prefered by the Policee 
against E. D Wolley for making use of sedicious language against the Authorities of the Church. 
The letter of the accusation was sustained against Br Wolley but it was not supposed by any that 
the spirit of sedition was in his heart. It proved to be an interesting meeting as much teaching & 
instruction was drawn out of the Presidency High Council, Twelve &c. 

Br Wooley in his plea expressed his feelings that the Hickery Clubs carried by the policee, & the 
Council for Bishops to preside over Any parties in the place to keep order, And that the Policee 
would not suffer A man to let his own cattle get into his own crops to destroy them were 
oppressive to his feelings. 

President Young said He wanted to speak upon the spirit of the thing with Br Wolleys that the 


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things that oppress Br Wolleys feelings would have no effect upon him if all had been right with 
him but he had got the spirit of the world & did not feel right. Said that the law was for the 
unruly & that it must rest upon good men in order to reach the unruly & transgressers. 

Many gave their opinion upon the subject. Br Wooley made his confession that he had spoken in 
an improper manner in a moment of passion. He was forgiven by the council & all was settled. 

W. Woodruff in his remarks said He would advise evry individual not to make any decision or 
give any judgment or opinion upon any subject whatever untill they herd both sides of the 
question. Council was dismissed & we returned home. 

Brs Pratt & Levi Richards & myself visited Br Henman’s family to administer to them for the 
whole family was sick & had been troubled with evil spirits. We prayed with this family & laid 
hands upon 7 that were sick of the Household. The spirit of the Lord was with us & we rebuked 
the sickness & commanded the evil spirits to depart & they recieved A blessing upon the family. 
Br’s Pratt & Richards returned to my house & spent several hours in conversing about science, 
Phylosophy, Astronomy, And A variety of things of interest. 

25th We met in Council with the Twelve & High Council A. Babit, H. Kimball, & John Snider. 
They made A report of Affairs at Nauvoo & recieved some council. President Young did not 
wish the temple to be sold And A number of other things were spoken of. Some little difference 
of feelings settelled. During the evening I attended meeting in our ward. 

26th I spent the day at home reading, writing, choreings &c. I spent the evening at Br Neff. 

27th 28th I spent the days at home choping wood. 

29th Presidents Young & Kimball called upon me at my house a little while this morning the first 
time that Br Young has been into my house since we returned from the mountains We conversed 
together A short time. We then all went to council together with the High Council & spent 
several hours & then dispersed. 

30th Sunday We had one of the most terrible storms we have had for several Years. It has been 
exeeding warm for many days. The wind blew hard from the North commenced raining & 
freezing then snowing & exeeding Cold & the stonn lasted through the day and night which blew 
snow into many houses. It was also tedious upon cattle. Mrs Woodruff was quite sick through the 
night & kept her bed through the day. 

3 1st The storm abated in the latter part of the night & the sun arose plesant this morning. I spent 
the day at home. 


February 


Feb 1st I spent the day at home choreing. 
2d I spent the day reading & writing. 


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3d I attended A feast prepared by the defenders of Nauvoo or those who were in the Battle of 
Nauvoo. Most of those who composed the assembly were individuals who were in that 
memoriable Action. 

It was ascerted that there was not more than 100 saints at any one time in the fight while the mob 
that was fighting against the Saints numbered from 800 to 1,000. And their was but three of the 
Saints killed and one or two slightly wounded while there was several waggon loads of the mob 
killed & many wounded & the enemy driven from the field. But the Lord was with the Saints & 
saved their lives. 

The Saints wore a read badge on the left arm to distinguish them from their enemies in the battle. 
They wore the same to day at the feast. At the opening of the performences President Kimball 
deliverd an Address upon the subject of the Battle of Nauvoo & was followed by Col Johnson, 
After which their was feasting singing music & some dancing. A figure was got up called the 
Battle of Nauvoo which was danced & the Saints felt to praise the Lord for their deliverance. 

4th I spent the day at home reading the Book of Enoch. 

5th I went into the woods with several of the Brethren & choped loaded & brought home five 
loads of wood. 

6th Sunday I preached to a congregation of Saints in Br Phineas Richards ward & had A good 
time. 

7th I spent most of the day reading. I read A pamphlet called the voice of truth, containing the 
Prophet Joseph Smith views of the powers & policy of the government of the United States, And 
correspondence with Gen James Arlington Bennett, Appeal to the green mountain Boys, 
Correspondence with John C. Calhoon, and Henry Clay, A friendly hint to Missouri, And an 
interesting sermon from President Smith. Those letters & writings are of much interest & show 
the spirit of the times & the mighty rebuke of wicked men by that great, good, & wise Prophet 
Joseph. I was much edifyed in reading it. I spent the evening in reading the book of Jasher & was 
edifyed with that. 

Br Benbow & myself laid hands upon a sick youth. 

8th I spent the day at home. During the meeting at our school house in the evening I gave a 
synopsis of my meditations concerning our duties as A people. 

9th I have been troubled for several days with a head ake. I finished reading the Book of Jasher & 
found it to be an interesting work. It speaks of the great victories the Twelve Patriarchs the sons 
of Jacob accomplished in their Battles with their enemies in consequence of their great faith in 
God and of Joseph Career in Egypt & many other interesting things. 

10th j_ I made President B Young A Present of fine blue Broad cloth which I got in England. I 


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spent A part of the day with Br Young. I walked with him from the office to Br Warner Porters 
whare President Young Administered in the ord[in]ances of the house of the Lord. 


I read several papers from the eastern states which gives an account of the dredful famine in 
Ireland. More than 130,000 persons have died in the famine and Apparently the destress has but 
just began. Also the Breaking of the Banks And large firms throughout England which has 
caused A great panic & much perplexity through out those nations. The United States are still at 
war with Texas & much division in the government concerning the war. 

1 1th & 12th I still suffer with pain in the head. I spent these days at home reading writing & 
choreing. 

13th Sunday It is the most beautiful & warm weather that ^ I ever saw in the winter time. 

The Camp of the Saints met at the Stand for A meeting to day. Meeting opened by singing & 
Prayer by W. Woodruff. President Kimball then addressed the meeting And said that he wanted 
to give an exhertation And a word of caution. And after reproving the saints said many flattered 
themselves that they were going to lean upon others to save them without doing any thing 
themselves but they will get disappointed, for to bring up a figure he said you might graft ever so 
many sproughts into a tree. If they did not adhear to the tree they would remain there dead sticks 
sticking out of the tree. They would be dead themselves, not bring forth fruit. And do the tree no 
good but ownly scar it up, & those scars would remain untill the dead sticks were broke off & the 
skar healed over or other grafts put in that would bring forth fruit. So it was with all who leaned 
upon others to save them & would not harken to their council & take their advice & no man can 
save them if do not save themselves. And many other remarks of Interest he made. 

W. W. Phelps then read the V chapter of Math as he had translated it from the greek. 

W Woodruff Advised the people who were going to settle on the east side of the river not to 
settle on the bank or in the bottoms so that the first flood need not wash them into the Mo river. 

Meeting was dismissed After which in company with Mrs Woodruff I went to Br Pulsiphers And 
soon Presidents Young & Kimball came & attended to sealing four couple in matrimony. We had 
A feast of spruice beer & cakes on the occasion. 

During the evening I attended the meeting of the seventies being 3 of their presidents present, 
Joseph Young Z Pulsipher A. P. Rockwood. The House was crouded to excess. The meeting was 
opened by singing & Prayer, And was then addressed by A P Rockwood who spoke upon the 
government of children that Parents ought to set A good exhample before their Children & not 
nickname them but call them by their proper name for the way that Parents set their children 
going in life they are apt to go through & if they start with Jim, Jo, & Pall, they are apt to go 
through life so. 

Br Pulsipher followed & made many interesting remarks. And He was followed by President 
Joseph Young who reproved them in the spirit of the Lord against the spirit of dancing & warned 


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them to forsake all sin & be faithful in all things. He spoke in the spirit and power of God feeling 
the responsibility he was under when He closed his remarks. 

W. Woodruff arose And said that should I say that I did not desire to address the seventies I 
should do dishonor to my own feelings for I do desire it at this time. All who know my course 
when I have been at head quarters with the Presidency either with Joseph, Brigham, or others of 
the twelve know that I have never put myself forward to preach or teach the people. Why hath it 
been so? Because I have had file leaders between me and God whose business it is to lead teach 
& instruct the inhabitants of Zion. And I have felt it more my duty to sit & hear while with them 
at head quarters than to put myself forward to teach. 

Yet when I have been called upon to speak I have endeavoured to do the best I could. But when I 
have been abroad in the vineyard I have had the spirit of my mission & been much blessed in 
bringing souls into the kingdom of God. And I do feel it a privilege to address the Seventies at 
this time. 

Br Young asked me to speak in the fore part of the evening But I desired to wait untill the 
Presidency of Seventies had address them And I can now see that it was wisdom for I should not 
have had the same matter before me that I now have. 

I have A number of things resting upon my mind which I wish to lay before you. Your President 
Joseph Young has spoken to you in the spirit & power of God to night & has warned & exhorted 
you not to defile your Priesthood & calling & not to have your minds all taken with fiddleing & 
dancing. I have taken more real injoyment this evening in hearing the teaching giving by your 
Presidency than I would in hearing A million of dollars worth of fiddle-strings worn out. 

You must not think hard of Br Joseph Young because he reproves, rebukes, & exhorts you with 
all long sufferings & doctrin, for their is an almighty responsibility resting upon his shoulders As 
the seenier President of this August body of seventies ordained unto the Apostleship. And the 
Lord will hold him responsible for the maner that he watches over the Seventies And he is stired 
up from time to time by the spirit of the God of Israel to reprove you And the rebukes of A friend 
are far better than the kisses of an enemy. And you must not think hard of Br Young if he does 
reprove you for he does it for your good. 

It is far better for you to spend your time getting instruction & council than in fiddleing & 
dancing for while the latter is of no profit to you the fonner you will need when you are seperated 
far from your Brethren and abroad among the nations of the earth amid the Judgments of God 
which are laying waste the people & while you have to dodge between wind & water to save your 
head in the midst of persecution & mobs while you are offering salvation to the people. 

I have meditated much of late concerning the responsibility we are under to God inasmuch as we 
bear the priesthood & are numbered among the Lords Anointed As Angels are watching us & 
bearing a report of us daily to God. Should the Lord come down to see us to see for himself if the 
reports of [us] was correct, what would the Lord think of & how would we like to hear the record 


Page 199 




read in the morning of the resurrection containing an account of An assembly of the Lords 
Anointed At winter Quarters, upon whom All heaven leaned & depended upon in carrying out 
the purposes of the Lord in the last dispensation & fulness of times And fulfilling the 
expectations of Abraham, Isaac & Jacob & all the Holy Prophets & Apostles Since the world 
began in gathering the Jews & rebuilding Jerrusalem gathering the Saints & rebuilding up Zion 
preparing the way for the endowment of the ten tribes of Israel in the north Country & the 
convertion of the Lamanites in the west, & the warning of all the gentile world that they may be 
left without excuse when the Judgments of God cleanse the earth from sin, wickedness, & 
pollution. And that our prayers should ascend into the heavens for the Lord to avenge the Blood 
of the Prophet Joseph & other saints who have been martered & slain by gentile mobs in the last 
days. 

While there is so much depending upon us & our prayers should we be satisfyed with the record 
of this city of the Saints in the eternal world kept by the Angels of Heaven If we should hear read 
before an assembled world that the inhabitants of winter Quarters who were the Lords Anointed 
during the winter of 1 847 & 8 spent nine days of their time in fiddleing & dancing whare they did 
one in prayer & praise to almighty God? I saw would we be satisfyed with such record? No we 
would not. Then let us turn from such seenes of folly & spend more time in meetings for 
preaching, exhortation, & prayer before the Lord. 

Br Joseph exhorted the Elders "not to defile their Priesthood." I will here say If any man wants to 
feel the pangs of Hell let him Have the Priesthood & let him have immortal glory, eternal life, 
Thrones power dominions, exhaltations with all the blessings of Abraham, Isaac & Jacob in 
view, then let him break the law of God & defile his Priesthood And in a moment He falls from 
his high esstate And all of his exhalted hopes vanish in a moment & when his eyes are open to 
see things as they are He sinks in darkness & we & the vary sight of the blessings which he has 
lost causes A hotter Hell through his soul than fire and brimestone. 

Many other remarks were made by the speaker After which Br Cumings addressed the meetings 
& spoke of his mission to England. Made some vary appropriate remarks after which the meeting 
Closed. 

14th I spent the day at home. 

15th I spent the day at home But had a good meeting at night. 

16th I spent this day at home reading. 

17th I carried 9 bushels of wheat & 5 of buckwheat to the water mill. I spent the day untill 12 
oclok at night with Br Davis grinding in the mill. Mrs Woodruff spent the time with Sister Davis 
& we went home in the night. 

18th The soldiers have a meeting to day at the Log tabernacle. Br Young, Kimball, & O Pratt was 
expected to be there. O Pratt was there but the others were at Br Hydes As He had Just returned 


Page200 




from the east. 


We also recieved A large mail to day from various parts of the earth several stars from Liverpool 
showing the rapid progress of our cause through England Scotland and Wales And of the hard 
warfare of our worthy friend Capt Dan Jones. It seems as though nearly all wales was against him 
yet he is baptizing daily as he is travling through the nation. We also got news of the Mexican 
war, American Congress, the loss of life on the lakes & rivers &c. 

19th I Administered to Br Willard Richards early in the morning who has been sick near two 
months. I spent most of the day in reading Br Johnathan containing the life of Gen Z Taylor 
History of the Mexican War And plates of the several Battles in Mexico &c. 

20th Sunday I preached to the saints in our ward. In the evening I went with Mrs Woodruff to Br 
P Richards & herd two letters read from his Sons in England which were interesting. We then 
called upon Willard Richards who was sick. Soon President Young came in sat A few moments 
And I went home with him & spent an hour or two And read some late papers. 

2 1st I spent the day at home. 

22d Br John Grierson came to the city to day the first time He has been here for one year & a 
half. I look him up & brought him home with me. He attended meeting with me in the evening 
and spent the night with me. He took his cloths which Br Smoot left with us for him. 

23d j_ I called upon Br Richards in the morning. Soon President Young came in. We went into 
the office & attended to some Business. Br Brown Came in & requested one of us to go & preach 
the funeral sermon of his daughter who was dead. Presidents Brigham & Joseph Young & myself 
went to his house. We found not ownly his daughter dead but a number sick in the House. 

The meeting opened by singing & prayer By Joseph Young, After which President B. Young 
Arose Addressed the meeting & said that he had A few remarks to make & desired that he might 
have the Holy spirit while He spoke. Said it was better to go [to] the House of mourning than to 
the House of feasting for that was the end of the living & would force upon our minds the truth 
of the desolution which we must all pass through. 

We mourn for the loss of our friends when they die but if they die in the Lord they are better off 
than the living for they have gained one victory which the living have not. They are beyound the 
reach of pain, sorrow, wicked men, devils, and devlish spirits which we are not, for we are daily 
in the midst of all the suffering that mortal man is heir to & when will this suffering end? When 
we die & not before unless we should live untill Satan is bound. But all must pass through death. 
Yet I would be glad to live to assist in binding Satan. 

As to the Saints we are being worn out according to the wor[k?] of the Lord. We have been 
driven & persecuted in such a manner that there are but few constitutions among us except such 
as are broaken to peaces & ready to fall into the grave & we are burying up the saints vary fast 
whareever we go. Over four Hundred are laid in the grave in this place & many in all places 


Page201 




whare we have stoped. 

But all of this pain, sorrow, death & affliction will work to gether for the good of the Saints for 
these things must needs Be in order to work out the purposes of the Almighty & give the Saints 
there exhaltation and Glory in the Eternal world. The sectarian world with the knowledge they 
have would if it was in their power sweep the fall of man, death, pain, sorrow & Afflictions with 
all their attendant evils into oblivion & caused man to have lived eternally as he was before the 
fall that he might never have seen death. But such a course would in the end have been the 
greatest Curse that Could have been heaped upon man for by so doing it would entirely have 
frustrated the design of the Almighty in the Creation of man & blocked up the way for his 
exhaltation glory & greatness & the Lord understood the subject so well before either the world 
or man was fonned that A Saviour was provided in the Lamb slain from before the foundation of 
the world to redeem man from Eternal death So that by man paying the deabt of the fall by 
passing through the temporal death, they recieve the power & glory of the resurrection by Jesus 
Christ which gives them an Immortal body which will recieve A far greater glory and power than 
the mortal body ever Could have obtained unto had it not have been for the fall. 

And I suppose If I had power With the limited Knowledge I have I should sweep from the midst 
of this people sickness, pain, sorrow poverty & persecution & mobing. I dont suppose I should 
ever have suffered this people to have been driven at all by a mob but as the Lord knows so much 
more than we do He has suffered it so to be & it is for a wise purpose in God. It is for our good & 
will finally prove for our exhaltation & glory in the eternal world, & gives us experience in this 
life which we otherwise should not have had. "Adam fell that men might be, men are that they 
may have Joy, but if they knew no Joy they would have no sorrow, And if they did not know 
misery they would not know happiness." For man must experience one in order to comprehend & 
know the other. Jesus had to descend below all things in order to ascend above all things. 

I am fully convinced that all our sorrows & troubles will work out for us a far more exeeding & 
eternal wait of glory. Hence we ought nought to murmer or complain at our fate. It is true we 
mourn at the loss of friends but not as those with out hope for blessed are the dead who die in the 
Lord from hence forth saith the spirit for they rest from their labours (& if their friends are 
faithful) their works will follow them. 

But what is the time of our suffering in this life in comparison with Eternity After we have spent 
millions of Ages in Eternity & we look back upon our time here & it will ownly look like the 
twinkling of an eye in comparison. And so it will be in the waiting for the resurrection of our 
bodies. It will be for A moment as it were before we shall stand in our immortal bodies. But no 
person can have power to raise the dead except he holds the Keys of the Resurrection & no man 
can hold the keys of the resurrection or be ordained unto that power untill he has died & been 
raised from the dead himself. No more than A man has power to Baptize A man legally & lay 
hands upon him for the Holy Ghost & ordain him to the office of an Elder who has not been 
baptized or ordained himself. 


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Michael the Ark Angel (Adam) Holds the Keys of the resurrection And After A man is raised 
from the dead has an immortal body & recieves An ordination to hold the keys of the resurrection 
from under the Hands of Michael or those Having authority He then has power to raise the dead 
& not before. 

Jesus was the first fruits of the Resurrection. "He had power to lay down his life & power to take 
it again" When He had lain in the grave three days An Angel, some person who was Appointed 
to this work appeared rolled back the stone & Called Jesus forth. 

We have power here through the Priesthood to lay hands upon the sick & they recover, to east out 
devils open the eyes of the blind & unstop the ears of the deef according to the faith of the 
children of men. It is just as easy to raise the dead for one who is ordained unto this power as it is 
for us to administer in the ordinances of the House of the Lord here. Some times we lay hands 
upon the sick & they are healed instantly. Other times with all the faith & medicine they are a 
long time getting well, & others die. 

The spirit of devils who are deprived of Having tabernacles are constantly making war with men 
who have tabernacles & they strive to take up their abode in the tabernacles of men because they 
have none of their own, & when they can get a chance they will many of them croud into one 
man & try to reign there & some times they will kill the body & then the spirit of the man & 
devils all have to leave it. Some times in sickness & weakness the spirit of deavels get possession 
of the body whare the spirit of man is pure & overcomes it but the moment the spirit leaves the 
Body it is beyound the power & reach of the devils. Some children are killed in this way for the 
devil is making war with every thing that has A tabernacle esspecially the Saints, & the devil 
rules a great deal in the hearts of the Children of men. And if He cannot go in any other way He 
will go into A Barrel of whiskey & run down their throats. And when the saints get into the 
valley away from the gentiles the deavel will get into the Half mormons Hickery monnons & will 
plead with them to get into them. 

But when we consider how little time we have to spend in this life in comparison to Eternity we 
ou[gh]t not to consider it a hard matter to be faithful to God & keep his commandments for when 
we obtain Celestial glory we shall have to exclaim that it is through the grace of God after all, for 
the glory far exceeds our suffering in this life. 

Many other remarks were made by President Young And meeting was dismissed by W 
Woodruff. 

24th John Grierson left to day for Missouri. I spent the day at home writing. I laid hands upon 
one that was sick. 

25th I spent the day at home choping. 

26th I crossed the river. Carried G A Smith & family to Br Eames. I then rode to Br Robert 
Petty's & spent the night. 30 m. I Preached in the evening at the school house. 


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27th Sunday I Preached in the school House & spent the night with Br Petty. 

281 rode in company with Br Petty to Mr Platts the Paunee missionary teacher. We spent the 
night with them. 25 m. 

29th I rode with Br Petty to Fort Kearney. Was introduced to the Quartermaster Van Fleet & 
other officers. I dined with Br Albert Petty who was doing their Blacksmithing. After Spending 
several hours at the fort we crossed the ferry & returned to Mr Platts & spent the night. 20 m. 

March 

March 1st 1848 This is my birth day And the first day of Spring. I Am 41 years of Age this day. I 
rode with Br Petty to his house And spent the night. It commenced snowing in the evening. We 
had A tedious stormy night. 25 m. 

2d This is the most tedious stormy day we have had this winter. The air was filled with snow 
through the day. I spent the day reading the life of Benjamin Franklin. 

3d It is still vary cold but I rode with Br Petty to council Point & spent the night with Br James 
Alread. 20 m. 

4th It was A cold winday day. We rode to the Ferry at Winter Quarters. The river was frozen 
over. I had severe head ake. I left my team on the east side of the river. Crossed the river on 
foot. I spent the night at home. This is Phebe Amelia's birth day. She is 6 years old to day. 

5th Sunday I got my team home. Br Allexander and Br Petty spent part of the day & night with 
me. 

I had one of the most interesting dreams of my life during the night. Most of it was taken from 
me when I awoke. I flew through the air from state to state & escaped from the hand of my 
enemies. I went to HEAVEN and saw the Saints in their employment. I saw Joseph & Hiram 
Smith & many others who had died of the Latter Day Saints. The innumerable company of Saints 
which I saw seemed to be prepairing for some grand & important event which I could not 
understand. Many were busily ingaged in making Crowns for the Saints. One crown did not suit 
the artist so they cut it in to in the middle to make it over new. The saints were all dressed in 
white robes both male and female. My soul was filled with Joy & glory while I gazed upon the 
seenery that surrounded me but I awoke and behold it was a dream. 

6th I sold Br P Allexander A waggon to day for $55. He paid $45 which leaves $10 due. I sent 
my Horse & Mule with Br Petty to Sell at the fort. We crossed the river with them on the ice. 

7th Was A vary high wind in the afternoon. I had a call from Dr Cannon. He wished me to call 
and see his son Marsena Cannon 15 Court Street Plumbes Dagaurious gallery Boston. 

8th I spent the day at home And in the evening I walked with Br Young to Bishop Calkins And 


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Br Fisher 72 years old was married to Sister Calkins 73 years old. We then walked to Br W 
Richards office & spent several hours with him. 

9th I walked with Brs Young & Kimball to three Stor[y?]es and called upon Sister Berry & 
family. The Brethren gave them some advise. 

10 Presidents Young, Kimball, And Woodruff with their Ladies spent the Afternoon at Capt 
Russells on a visit. 

Several Remarks were made by President Young concerning the Power of man. He said every 
man had power according to his faith and faithfulness and good works. That He had no power to 
give any man neither could he take power from any man who was righteous for He would have to 
go to work in unrighteousness to take away the power of a righteous man And He could not be 
prospered in it. He also spoke of rich men in this Church & Kingdom being brought down poor. 
He said men could ownly rise, assend & be exhalted according as they had decended below, been 
abased made poor &c. Many other remarks were made. 

I spent the evening with Mrs Woodruff at Sister Pratts whose husband has gone to the Islands of 
the sea. 

1 1th I spent the day at home. 

12 Sunday I spent most of the day at home. 

13 Monday I spent the day at home And the evening At Br Blanchards. I went to Br W. Richards 
And lade hands upon his child. I read the December No of the Star giving an account of the 
progress of the work throughout Europe Also papers from the States concerning the war & the 
politics of the nation. 

14th Spent the day at home. 

15th I went into the woods beyound the Punkaw camp with Br Benbow & Charles Pulsipher & 
we choped down trees & loaded 6 waggons with fire wood & returned home. Distance of the day 
8 mile. /I was quite weary at night./ 

16th I spent the day at home. Brs Petty & Alread called upon me & spent the night with me. I 
walked out in the evening with President Young to Thomas Bullocks & Br Whitehead. Council 
was givento them concerning emigration. 

17th March 1848 ^ I spent the day at home. 

I attended a Council of much importance in the evening. The captain of the Policee with two 
others who were members of the Seventies were brought before the Presidency of the Seventies 
for Assault & Batterry & swearing. There was present but three of the Presidents of the 
Seventies, But the High Council was Present Also President Young & W Woodruff. It was 
agreed by the Parties to try the case before the High Council, which was filled up And the 


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charges read. The defendants did not exactly plead guilty so the testimony was heard on both 
sides & it was proven there was a fight between them & swearing. 

The Plaintiff opened the subject. Called witnesses who testifyed. The defendants spoke & bore 
their testimony. The Plaintiff then made his Plea & also his councillor. The defendants then made 
their plea Also their Councellor. Then President Young arose And addressed the council in an 
interesting manner. The following is an extract of the Clerks munites of the President speech: 

If all Parties are willing I will now make some remarks. There are a good many item pertaining to 
this case. 1st it was to be brought before the President of the 70. But they did not profess to have 
any Jurisdiction in the case ownly in the trial of their membership but not as A peace officer. But 
the High council can sit as a municipal court & try them for Church fellowship and for a breach 
of duty as A Policee officer. 

Is it supposed that A public officer cannot do wrong? I do not think so & when they do wrong 
they should be reproved as well as any other person. I shall speak my mind without any regard to 
parties favor or affection. This I always Calculate to do whether I gain friends or foes. I have 
plenty of enemies But I dont ask any favors of them. I will not be turned for a moment out of the 
Course of right & justice if it Cuts my throat. I shall tell the truth. Some who have pied this cause 
cannot tell all the truth. 

If Mr Hill did tantilize the Policee they had no business to fall upon him & beat him. I have 
known Br Hill for fifteen years. He is given to rough uncouth Conversation and tantalizing mens 
feelings. And He wont Apostitize neither. 

Let me reason the Case. I am a teacher. I often officiat in that capacity. For instance Hosea Stout 
says that for 8 years He has had A catalogue of names in his own mind of those who would 
Apos-titize and as yet he had not been mistakened. If A man understands the things of God, He 
knows well that every Saint of God is followed up through life by the powers of Hell, of the devil 
of temptation, & of evry snare that can be invented on the earth to make him Apostitize, loose his 
glory & Crown. This I understand. 

If I see a man doing wrong or is any way faltering If I take a course to make him believe that he 
will fall does not that at once weaken his faith & disarm him of power to stand? It does. Dont I 
see things as well as the Policee? I do. And if I saw A man that I knew would fall I would not tell 
him so but would try to save him as well as I Could that when he did go my garments would be 
clear before God & he could not rise in Judgment against me. 

I am here to save both Br Hosea & Hill but not to destroy them. We are here to the Policee as 
policee And to inquire into their Conduct as Elders. Has not Isaac Hill been afflicted and 
maimed? Who sent Hosea Stout to take Isaac Hill as A Prisioner? Nobody. Was there disorder? I 
will admit Isaac Hill was out of ordor to go into a Store in the mids of a contention & undertake 
to tantilize a mans feelings while He was in anger under pretence of reproving him for swearing. 
A far better way would have been for him to have waited untill He was calm & composed & took 


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him one side & in a friendly manner said Br Hosea, I think your Course in the Store was not 
calculated to dignify your office as captain of the policee and as A member of the Seventies. He 
would then have recieved it vary different from what He did. 

I know it is natural for Br Hill to tantalize. But that is no Excuse for Br Hosea Stout to fight him. 
He should have said I am A peace maker And magnifyed his office with dignity & honor but 
instead of that He desended to the spirit of a tantilizer & fell to fighting & swearing. 

Policeemen should be men of more noble minds than to desend to such things, or suffer their 
spirits to mingle with such low degrading things. Hosea Stout did desend to anger & swearing 
which was disgraceful to a Policee man. And men that will practice such things are not fit for 
policeeman. I know the policeemen here are not Just right for they will get together for hours 
together make fun, t[e?]ll tales, drink whiskey & get drunk and that is why they are so angry all 
the while. And they dont pray when they come together. If they did when they saw fighting & 
contention they would do as John Lytle did when he parted Stout & Hill. Says He (as he steped 
between them & shoued one one way & the other the other way) get out of the way. Stop your 
fighting. I am a peace maker & wont have it. I never struck a man in my life though I have parted 
many who were fighting. I never saw the day but that I thought to myself to good to strike a man. 

Now to the Policee I say stop your baldadash. Pray with each other. Now if I have not told the 
truth tell me of it. I mean to reprove the Policee. If we dont get better men in the valley I will 
vote against them. They have confessed they are angry. I want to see the Police officiate in their 
office without getting angry. If they do not they disgrace their office. 

I Know how Brother Hosea Stout feels concerning the spirits that murdered the Prophets & still 
hang around Us, but dont you know that devils are going to the mountains as well as Saints? We 
have some of the meanest spirits among us on earth. The net has hailed in good and bad And I 
am watching them Continually. And we have some of the best men with us that swear that are 
guilty of crime yet they would lay down their lives for us & for this Cause. There are others who 
will not gather with the Saints because they think the Church is not pure enough for them & they 
think themselves vary pure & will wait untill the Saints get pure Holy & righteous & during all 
this time they will live with the world in the midst of wickedness of every kind & think it all 
well. 

We have good men & bad men among us but if I see a bad man or good man that needs reproof I 
will give it to him but will I go into a store & strike A man? No. Would it make him any better? 
No. But we should be saviors benovelent & kind & imitate the example of the savior. 

Men ignorantly fan the flame of mobocracy. I have feelings about it, and often say Cut his 
infernal throat. Still I do not mean any such thing. I am not good enough to do such A thing. The 
God of Israel was A God of War. When Israel went over the read sea & the enemies followed the 
Lord commanded the waters to overflow them And it obeyed. When I get good enough then I can 
fight to If I have power to command the elements. 


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Isaac Hill Ought to have known better than to have done as he did. He is no more fit for a High 
Priest than The policee are for their office. When they were by themselves He should have told 
him of it quietly. Is it not so Issac? (Isaac yes.) I am not going to decide the case. That is for the 
High Council to do. 

Br Cutler arose made A speach & gave his decision. Both parties recieved their reproof & made 
their confession which was excepeted. President Young said good would grow out of it. Council 
Adjourned. 

18th ■(: Wilford Woodruff Jr's birth day. He is 8 years old this day. He wishing to be baptized In 
company with his mother & sisters & Br John Benbow I went to the water & Baptized him. On 
our return home we confirmed him. Brs Young Smith & others were over to the Log Tabernacle 
to attend the council there. 

19th Sunday We held A public meeting at the stand. The meeting was addressed By Br O Pratt 
upon the subjects of the Gods. 

20th 21st I spent the time at home. We had a rain storm during the time. :)■ We recieved A large 
mail on the 21st of papers and letters 

224 [] I recieved one letter from Br Spencer of Liverpool giving an account of the progress of the 
work throughout Europe & of the distress of nations such as wars, revolutions famine, pestilence 
earthquakes &c. The same were confirmed by the papers. Also the state of affairs in the United 
States. Many members of Congress were dead among whom was John Quincy Adams Aged 81 
years. Died in his seat in the house of Congress. His Father John Adams and Thomas Jefferson 
both had been presidents of the United States & both died on the same day on the 4th day of July 
in the fiftieth year of the Independences of the United States. And John Q Adams Died on Gen 
Washington birth day. Steam boat explosions, great floods, wars, fires, pestilence & politics 
seem to be convulsing the United States. I held a Council this ev[ening]. 

22d I rode to the Pigeon mills in Potawatame co la. From there I Crossed Pigeon. Went through 
the best range of timber I have seen in the Pota-watame tract to Rollins settlement. I preached to 
the saints in that settlement And had a good time. 15 m. 

23d I returned to winter Quarters & found all well. 15 m. 

24th I met in council this morning with the Presidency. Sidney Roberts was Present from Ioway 
City. Had some things to lay before the Council which was Attended to. 

25th I spent A part of the day in council with the Presidency & others upon the subject of the 
Paintings got up by Philo Dibble. The work was finally sanctioned by the Presidency & Twelve 
who signed their names to it. 

26th Sunday We had an interview to day with Capt Van Vleet [Fleet] Dr Johnson And Mr 


Page208 




Matlook the soux Indian Agent. We conversed upon a variety of subjects Among others the trial 
of Jack Reading. We then went to the Stand where the Saints met for meeting or public worship. 
We spent A little time & returned home. 

27th B Young, H. C. Kimball W. Woodruff Phineas Young & others crossed the river & rode 
to the Log tabernacle whare we met with O Hyde G. A. Smith with many others & went into 
Council concerning the organization of Potawatame County & herd documents read from several 
members of Ioway City directed to the inhabitants of that County concerning political & other 
matters. There were speaches made pro and con & finally answers were given to the effect that 
we felt disposed to let politics take their own course And find there own level. We spent the 
night at Council Point. H C. Kimball & myself lodged together. Distance 20 m. 

28th Met in council this morning. We herd a letter read from Oliver Cowdry expressing his 
feelings Concerning some matters connected with the first calling of the Twelve. After 
Conversing upon A variety of subjects we returned home to winter Quarters via Log tabernacle. 
On my return home I recieved A letter from Br & Sister Scammans [] saying all was well with 
them. Distance 20 m. 

29th About a dozen Pawnee Indians with an interpeter stoped in this place to day. Had been to 
hold a council with the Omahas & Otoes about going to war with the Sicus for killing some of 
their numbers. 

30th I spent the day at home and at the office And crossed the River with R. Allexander. I let 
him have 4 yoak of Oxen & 4 Chains. 

3 1st I went over the river with Br Benbow to get some flour. I met in council with the Twelve in 
the evening. 


April 


April 1st I spent the day Choreing. 

2d Sunday Our City was visited through the day with a strong gale of wind and Sand which 
drove inside of all of our log cabins & coverd evry thing with dust. 

We had a hay stack burn down on the outskirt of the town situated in such a position that nothing 
els could burn but had it been in any part of town whare the wind Could have blown the fire in 
any part of the City it would soon been wraped in flames. The whole town has been in danger of 
being burnt up all winter. Wind South. 

3d A strong North wind to day. I was In Council with several Pawnee chiefs. All the business 
they made known was they wanted us to give them about 100 bushels of Com for their families 
who was starving. Theire is about 100 of the Paunees in tow[n]. We loaded there mules with 
Corn & let them go home. 


Page209 




4th j_ I went over the river And Baptized Sister Peck for the remission of sins And also for her 
daughter who was dead. I also baptized 8 others who had not before been baptized one of which 
was Samuel H. Smiths ownly Son & one was Peter Balentine an Insane man. I confirmed 4 
persons. I saw Br McKinzia who had just returned from a mission from the south. He informed 
me that Br A. Lyman was on his way to this place. He stated there was A revolution in firance. 
The french had driven their King Louis Phillipi from the throne & kingdom And also his family 
And the nation was in a state of revolution. Much Blood had been shed. 

A 

5th I spent the day at home And was under much obligations to Br John Benbow for performing 
a good act in afficiating in the Capacity of A peace maker And bestowing upon me some of the 
necessary Blessings of life. 


CONFERENCE 

[6] Of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter day Saints held at the Log Tabernacle Potawatame 
County Ioway April 6th 1848. Conference organized at 1 1 oclok. O Hyde appointed President. 
After the organization there was an intermission of one hour. 

Conference then opened by singing and Prayer by O Hyde who also addressed the meeting & 
remarked that A first Presidency had been Appointed but wished it sustained by the Conference. 
O Hyde moved that Brigham Young Be the President of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day 
Saints. It was Carried unanimously. It was then moved and Carried unanimously that Heber C 
Kimball be his first Councellor. It was moved and Carried Unanimously that Willard Richards be 
his second Councellor. 

It was moved And Carried Unanimously that the Church sustain And uphold Orson Hyde, Parley 
P. Pratt, Orson Pratt, Wilford Woodruff, John Taylor George A Smith, Amasa Lyman Lyman 
Wight Ezra T. Benson, in there office as members of the quorum of the Twelve. 

Moved and carried unanimously that we sustain Joseph Young, Levi Hancock, Henry Herriman, 
Zerah Pulsipher A. P. Rockwood Benjamin Clapp, Jedadiah M. Grant As Presidents of the 
Seventies. 

Resolved that we sustain Father John Smith As the Partriarch over the whole Church. 

President Young made some remarks Concerning Appointing the first Presidency. The spirit of 
the Lord has been with us & we know what is right. It would have been our right to have 
appointed the Presidency the first Conference we held after Joseph death but it was not wisdom 
to do it. We have now whiped all of our enemies with one hand tied behind us & now it is time to 
organize the Church. 

In speaking upon principle said that An honest man would not be dishonest neither would they 


Page210 




follow such men as Rigdon & Strang. The sheep would follow such as God sent even the 
Shepherds while dishonest men would follow the wolves. The Lord will rule in his Kingdom. I 
know how things have been & are and will be. Some suppose that by appointing A presidency it 
is robing some of the rising generation or taking away some ones rights but it is not so. 

Concerning Persecution I will say that the Lord will cause the wrath of man to Praise him. The 
remainder will the Lord restrain. 

Resolved that we sustain Br Wm. Snow As President of the High Priest quorum And Moses 
Clawson And Aaron Johnson as Councellors. Joseph S Clark appointed As President of the 
Elders quorum Charles Hopkins and Lewis Neley as councellors. 

Resolved that James Alread be appointed & sustained as President of the High Council in 
Potowata-mee County And that Ira Overt, Aaron Johnson Wm. Draper, Wm. Snow, Even M 
Green, Lyman Stodard, Silas Richards Henry W Miller, Noah S Bindley, Heman Hyde, 
Composed the High Council in Potawatame co. 

G A Smith spoke in favor of the cause of Br Yoakham. Elder Hyde made some remarks 
concerning the subject of raising teams and waggons for the Presidency. The Names of such were 
taken as had teams to spare. Adjumed untill evening. 

Meeting was Addressed by Brs Groves And Major & followed By the President, who spoke 
much upon principle. The spirit would guide into all truth. Then Harken to council and all would 
be right. 

7th Met at 10 oclok. Meeting opened by Prayer and singing. O Hyde addressed the meeting from 
the 25 & 26 verses of the [-] ch of math. Agree with thine Adversary quickly while thou art in the 
way with them &c. The Adversary is some time Called the devil but it is not the case in this 
instance. But while we are together so many of us we should agree with our brother and settle all 
difficulties with each other, while we have an opportunity lest they will some day come into 
judgment. And if we do wrong and block up the way of the souls of men esspecially of the Saints 
their blood will be required at our hands. 

And when the Saints do wrong the devil will reproach the Almighty for the conduct of his Saints. 
Dont steal. It is truly mean. Wait untill God gives us the Earth. A little leaven leavens the whole 
lump. Lie a little steal a little, swear a little and man may think all is well. And these things may 
taste sweet in the mouth but it will be bitter in the belly And will sting like an Adder. 

I am opposed to any evil. Men that feel disposed to do evil will always find an excuse for it. But 
when A man is tempted to do wrong let him enquire is there any hann in doing this? Is there any 
hann in letting it alone? Then do right in all things then there will be no evil to tell upon us. 

Many good remarks were made. 

He was then followed By Phineas Young who spoke of his mission in the east his interview with 
O Cowdry And his feelings concerning the Saints. 


Page21 1 




Br Joseph Young remarked that no man could go away from our meetings & councils & say that 
he has not been warned against evil but has true princ[ip]le taught him. 

O Hyde read several resolutions against Stealing. After the second reading President Young said 
that document would give the people the B. C. He said he wanted to give A little Council to O 
Hyde G. A. Smith & the High Council And all people will you hear it? Then let your paper alone 
& keep pen off from it And it will save you much trouble. The Innocent will suffer by it. Send no 
man into Missouri for Crime but to Ioway as we are in that state. 

He expressed his feelings in plain tenns Concerning being taken as prisioner at any time while he 
was innocent. Many remarks were made. Adjourned one hour. 

Meeting opened by Prayer & singing & Prayer. Teams were again called for. H C Kimball spoke 
upon the subject And brought up the parable of the Potter. Names were taken for teams. Remarks 
were made concerning the wives of the Soldiers stoping here or going on this season. It was 
thought the Soldiers would have to come back for their bounty money and if so would wish to 
find their families here. President Young said he was under the necessity & obligation to do all 
he could for them And what he had was at their command. And now what I want to know is will 
the Church take this responsibility from off my sholdiers and let me go free? All said yes. A 
Committee of 5 was appointed to locate the poor, widows &c. Meeting dismissed. 

Philo Dibble exhibited his Paintings during the evening. At the close of the exhibition W. 
Woodruff Addressed the assembly upon the subject And said that his sermon was short. His text 
was in two divisions one on the right & the other on the left. 

The right hand was A view of the matterdom of Joseph And Hiram Smith in Carthage Jail And 
the left hand was the canvass representing Joseph Smiths last address to the Nauvoo legion. 

Before us is presented A synopsis or minuature or commencement of one of the most interesting 
seeneries ever presented to man. I have visited the national gallery in London which is considerd 
the best collections of painting in Europe And there is nothing in that gallery that will begin to 
compare with this work when Carried out. And as brother Dibble has been moved upon to set up 
these paintings I feel to bid him God Speed & if he will get up the seeneries of this Church 
commencing at the Begining and go through it untill now & onward And fit up a gallerry in Zion 
It will be the continuation of the rise and Progress of the Church & kingdom of God in this last 
dispensation And will fonn one of the most interesting Seeneries that can be found in Zion. 

It is true we are passing through these seenes personally but our children, future generations, & 
those who come to visit Zion will feel deeply interested in this matter And would present to the 
view at one glance All the seenes that this Church has passed through. 

O Pratt followed with few remarks Also Joseph Young. 

8th Saturday morning Robert Petty addressed the brethren who were going with him as teamsters 


Page212 




for the USA. Meeting opened by singing and Prayer After which the meeting was Addressed for 
one hour and a half by W. Woodruff who spoke upon the duties of the Saints exhorted them to 
faithfulness And spoke with the spirit & power of God. Addressed the Brethren who were going 
as teamsters, spoke of the judgments which awaited the world, & the gifts & graces of the 
Church And a variety of subjects. 

Was followed by Father Morley who made good remarks upon educating children. He said he 
would not Command his Children to do any thing if they would do it without &c. Adjourned one 
hour. 

Meeting opened by singing & Prayer. The meeting was then addressed by O Pratt who spoke 
upon the trials of the saints. That these things will work for our good. That we had not been tried 
in prosperity & hoped we should not be untill we were able to bear it. He spoke of the education 
of our Children and many useful remarks were made. Hail ye mighty men of Israel. 

Father Cutler addressed the meeting And also spoke unto edifycation. Said it was the best day he 
ever saw. Was followed by O Hyde. 

We had Preaching in the evening By Brs Campbell, Clapp, Hyde Young & others We had a good 
meeting. 

9th Sunday Joseph Young spoke in the morning to the 70 & ordained some. Br K[e?]y sung 
Joseph the Seer. Meeting was Addressed by Emer Harris who spoke well. He said He had the 
first Book of Mormon ever bound in America. He spoke of Charity. Said that when we gave to 
the poor Children of God we gave to God & should recieve our reward. 

He was followed by O Hyde on the dispute on claims. If a man will not do right if he will 
trespass upon the claim of his Brother & will not submit to the decisions of the Councils in this 
thing then let the injured Brother leave his Claim And let the spirit of the Lord come away with 
him & let the transgressor come down to poverty & yet come bending to his injured Brother for 
Bread And let this be recorded in the Church record. And all the people said Amen. 

G. A Smith Addressed the meeting & others. Adjourned one hour. 

Met according to adjournment & several speaches made. Then the Conference Adjourned sine 
die. 

I had an interesting conversation with Father Cutler concerning his mission. Joseph Herren came 
to conference but stoped but A short time then went away. I returned to winter Quarters during 
the evening. The wind blew hard. We had a rough time crossing the ferry. Distance 15 m. I 
Administered to 3 who were sick at Conference. 

101 spent the day at home. 

1 1th ^ During the day we were visited by three messengers direct * from the City of the great salt 


Page213 




lake. They were from the mormon Battall-ion. Had spent two months in the valley. Brought A 
large package of letter from the valley. They left the last of Jan. The most of the winter was in 
November & December. The winter broke the middle of Jan. Grass was 4 inch high. Horses 
mules & sheep were fat And Cattle had done well. The Saints had put in 1,500 acres of wheat & 
calculate to double the amount. They have found the best of lime & clay for evry kind of ware. 
Everything seemed prosperous. There had been 10 deaths in all in the camp And many births. 
Father Woodruff had been quite sick but had got well again. I spent the evening with Br Richards 
reading letters. 

12th I spent the day at home writing. Another drove of Pawnees came into our town to be fed. 

13th \ G. A. Smith called upon me. I spent A part of the day with him at the office. During the 
evening President Young And Laday, G. A. Smith & John Benbow Called to pay me a visit. 

After spending two or three hours to gether vary Plesantly Mrs Woodruff requested A Blessing 
At the hand of President Young so He with G. A. Smith And myself laid hands upon her head & 
pronounced a Blessing upon her. The following is A part of the Blessing pronounced over her 
head By President Brigham Young: 

Sister Phebe I lay my hands upon thy head to Bless thee in the name of the Lord As thou art 
going forth with thy Husband into the vineyard. The Blessing of the Lord will go with thee. Thou 
shalt have power & wisdom to teach the truth to thy friends and thy sect. Thou shalt not be at a 
loss for Ideas & words in thy teaching. Thou shalt do a great work in connexion with thy 
Husband. Thou shalt save /all/ thy Children to return to the church with thy husband who shall be 
prospered in his mission. Thou shalt have power over all thy enemies & overcome all thy 
Besetments. Thou shalt be looked up to as A mother in Israel for council and for Instruction. 

[ ] 

We also Blessed Sister Edwards & Brother Ben-bow. G. A. S was mouth in Blessing Br Benbow. 

14th I met in council with the Presidency & Twelve. Hiram B[laeld.?]m licens was taken from 
him for transgression. 

15th * * * * I rode over the river. Went to the Log tabernacle with G A Smith. On our way there 
we learned that there was much excitement at the Point. 

The inhabitants had laid off Council Point into a town or town lots. One line fence run through 
John Geens house And the people pulled down his fence to move it. He went to put it up & took 
his rifle & swore He would Kill the first man that crossed the line of his fence or offered to touch 
it. While the company stood looking at him Brother [ ] Condit A shoemaker came out of his 

shop & walked up to see what was going on & in doing so walked over the line & John Geen 
shot him through the heart and he fell dead. A Frenchman then Struck Geen across the head with 
a Club And He fell as if he was dead but afterwards came to. They buried the dead man & took 
John Geen to Ioway City to be tried for his crime. /Geen shot himself at G S L City./ 


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I found the High Council in session when I arived at the Tabernacle. I dined with Br Hyde. Found 
Sister Hyde sick. I rode in the afternoon with Br Hendricks to Br Robert Perry's. Distance 30 m. 

16th Sunday I spent the day at Br Robert Petty's. 

17th I rode to Winter Quarters through the rain. We learned that a Steamer had arived at Fort 
Carney with Government Stores & expected two steamers in few days to Winter Quarters. The 
Soldiers at the fort went on board the Steamer & smashed the bar level to the floor broke all the 
decanters & glasses and spilt all the liquor & there was not power & dicipline enough in the 
Armey to take them into custody. 

A rumour came by the boat that the Mexicans had risen in arms throughout Mexico & retaken all 
new Mexico & the City of Mexico, & that the U.S. Government had Called for 50,000 men more 
to go to Mexico. 30 m. 

18th I spent the day at home choreing. 

19, 20th Spent the time at home. Nothing of Interest transpired. 

21st Mrs Woodruff was vary unwell through the day & confined to her bead. Elder Hyde came 
over the river. He staited that the river had overflowed the banks. He rode his horse through 3 
feet of water in the public road through the willows. We spent A little time together in council as 
follows: B Young, W. Richards, O Hyde G A. Smith And W Woodruff. 

224 I spent the day at home. 

22d In Company with Mrs Woodruff our Children and Br Benbow I rode with my Carriage to the 
Burying grounds. I visited the graves of two of my Children. I also rode down the bottom & 
visited the old Camp ground. Killed one prairie Chicken & went home. 

23rd Sunday A Cold day. President Young was sick. Spent most of the day reading the Account 
of the French revolution And the effect it had upon the nations of Europe. 

24th } I wrote A letter to Brother Orson Spencer & one to Capt Dan Jones. 

25th I forwarded my letters to St Louis by Br [Mc?]Kenzie. 

26th A guard was called for to guard against the Omaha. They had again began to kill our cattle. 

27th I went out in company with Br Benbow to herd cattle. We shot some ducks. 

28th I spent the day at home. Br Benson Arived in winter Quarters from his eastern mission at 
night. 

29th President Young made A feast & invited A few of his friends inasmuch as we were about to 
seperate. The company was Composed of the following persons: B Young, H. C. Kimball O 


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Pratt, W Woodruff, A. P. Rockwood Joseph Young, E. T. Benson Levi Richard & their ladies. 
We had A plesent time. Br Benson gave sumthing of an account of his begging mission in the 
east. During the evening two men came in from the Salt Lake City. Did not get much news from 
them. Br Snow Arived also in the evening bringing the papers & letters with him. The Affairs of 
Europe seem to be in A critical posture, rep-tures, revolutions risings of the people, The Thrones 
of Europe are trembling from their foundations. 

30th Sunday We met At the Stand. Erastus Snow Preached in the fore part of the day And Br 
Benson in the Afternoon After which President Young called for a guard for day and night. 150 
persons names were taken. Meeting was dismissed. 

May 


May 1st 1848 I spent the day at home. 

2d k In company with O. Pratt G A Smith, W Porter & P W Woodruff I repaired to the burying 
ground with A load of Stones. I went to the upper burying grounds & took up our little boy 
named Joseph & brought him to the burying ground near Winter Quarters & put him into the 
grave with Ezra Woodruff. Their bodies are in the grave No 34. 1 put A stone at the head of their 
graves marked J. E. W. for Joseph & Ezra Woodruff. I also put A stone at the head of Sister 
Benbows grave with J. B. on the head of his grave. G. A. Smith Put stones at the head & foot of 
all his relatives, And O Pratt done the same. 

3d We packed our trunks during the day And in the evening A company of Soldiers Arived from 
the valley & brought A mail from the city of the great Salt Lake. 

[] We got one letter from Sister Smoot And one directed to Robert Petty. We got A letter from the 
High Council to the Presidency here which was good. We met & herd it read. It seems from the 
letters that they have sowed 800 acres of wheat & inclosed 5,000 acres of land under fence made 
of poles. 

4th 1 spent the day at home. Killed A calf. 

5th } } I wrote 4 letters to the following persons: A. O. Smoot Aphek Woodruff, James Beyan, & 
James Fergeson. 

6th I spent the day at home packing up trunks goods &c. 0 

7th } Sunday I recieved A letter from Robert Petty. I crossed the ferry in the morning in company 
with Charles Pulsipher & Lummorow. I started to go to Br Petty's got to traiding point met R 
Allexander And I returned to camp. Distance 36 mile. 

8th I packed up the following Bread stuff for Father Woodruff forwarded By Br Benbow. Sister 
Edwards goes with it. Flour 150. C Meal 60. Rye meal 32, Rusk 69, meal & shorts 2.2. 

The Otoe Chiefs with many of the tribe called at winter Quarters to pay A visit. A fat Beef was 


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sent down to them. They have behaved much more honorable toward us than the Omahas have. 

9th I spent the day at home. The Steem boat Bandana arived at our wharf at sun set & brought 
goods groceries flour passengers &c. Dr Scott gave me Br Felts address as follows: Nathaniel H 
Felt South third Street between spruice & Alrnund street No 93 St Louis. 

10th All is bustle through winter quarters. The steemer unloaded flour groceries, freight, 
baggage. The waggons were busy in spreading it through the town. Several of the Saints took 
their departure on board the boat. O Pratt took passage with his family for England. Our youngest 
child Shuah was taken quite sick at night. 

1 1th All are busy preparing to go east or west. I bought groceries for Father Woodruff to day to 
the amount of $7. 

12th Our Child is dangerously sick to day. An alarm came into town that the Omahas were 
driving off our Cattle. We rallied about 50 Horsman & gave Chase. We got all our Cattle & 
found it a fals alarm. 

13th All are busy preparing to go either East or west. I Paid Br W B. Adams $12 on my eastern 
waggon And recieved the following recept: 

Council Bluffs May 13 1848 This is to Certify that Br Wilford Woodruff has paid me the balance 
for my waggon And this is his recept in full of all demand. W B Adams [signed] . 

14th Sunday I met in council with the Twelve. President Young Proposed that Brs Richards and 
A Lyman go and leave part of their families untill another year if they could not get along 
without. 

We all attended meeting at the Stand. The congregation was addressed by W Woodruff & E. T. 
Benson who exhorted the Saints to faithfulness & obediance & to harken to Council. 

President Young addressed the people. Made many interesting remarks. He Blessed the land of 
Winter Quarters And prayed that no gentile city might ever be pennitted to settle on it. And he 
felt to curse some of our enemies who was seaking our overthrow. He felt to Bless the Saints 
who go or stay. He blessed the Potawatame lands. He said we never should be driven from the 
mountains except by insurrections among ourselves And He had no fears of that. 

15th 16th Spent the time mostly packing up. 

17th Our babe was taken with a relaps in the night & had a severe time through the day to save 
her life. Artimissa left this morning with widow Foster for the Camp at the hom. 

18th Our babe is some better to day. I was unwell myself. 

19th I was quite unwell to day. Rumours have reached us that the Indians had commenced 
slaughtering the inhabitants of Oregon, Also that the Queen of England had abdicated her throne 


Page2 1 7 




& had shiped for Canida for Protection. Our streets are thronged with waggons on their way for 
the Horn. 

? I gave A power of Attorney to Z Pulsipher, John Benbow And A. O. Smoot to transact business 
for me in the valley. I assisted John Benbow to pack his waggon. He had a full load. /The Above 
report concerning the Queen proved to be incorrect./ 

20th I was near sick with Cold on the lungs. Br Benbow started on his journey to day & went but 
little out of town. Br Z Pulsipher went with him & his company. 

A Steem boat came in And brought about 150 passengers mostly Saints from England Among 
whom was Franklin & Samuel Richards. They also brought the body of Elder Sarine. He had 
been dead about 12 days. 

2 1 Sunday Elder Sarine Funeral was Attended to day & his body buried. I rode 5 miles out to the 
Camp with President Young. There were about 300 waggons encamped. I saw Br Benbow & 
many friends. 

22d It is a busy time throughout winter Quarters in preparing to leave for the east & west. 

23d A cold rainy day. 

24th President Young went out to the hom to organize the camp. H.C. Kimball O Hyde G. A. 
Smith spent a little time with me in the afternoon. I crossed the river and returned. 

One of the Brethren up the Pigion Creek was robed in open day light. Was gaged tied to a tree & 
robed of his oxen waggon money clothing &c. Some of the robers were taken, j {JH} Judgment 
will overtake the wicked in an hour they think not if they do not cease their wickedness. 

25th I was busy in packing up to move. I took the parting hand with President Young. I let him 
have twenty five dollars to help him buy a yoke of cattle. 

26th I moved my family & effects over the river & stoped over the river near the ferry. 

27th I carryed my Big Box & Br Stewart trunk & left it with Br G. A. Smith. I returned. 24 mile. 
We had a rain during the night & wet us all in the night. 

28th Sunday I spent the day at home. 

29th I rode out to day & shot A duck, A dove, & A large gobler turkey. 

30th I spent most of the day about home. 

31st I shot 8 pigions. 


June 


June 1st I spent the day at home. 


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2d In company with O. Hyde E. T. Benson H. Miller, Scofield Daily, Hickman, & others I rode 
out to the Horn to see Presidents Young Kimball & the Camp of Israel. We found all had crossed 
the Horn. Lorenzo Snow & Zera Pulsipher captains of hundred had gone on their Journey with A 
hundred each. We assertained their were about 600 waggons in all crossed the horn. They made a 
splendid encampment & beautiful sight. 

Their had been 4 burials at the Horn 2 infants one aged woman & brother Neff had a son named 
Charles 8 years of Age drowned in the Horn which was buried there. 

I spent A little time with President Young then went through the camp & visited my 
acquaintance. I wrote a letter to Br John Benbow As he had gone on and I could not see } him. 
Distance 30 mi. 

3d We took the Parting hand to day with Presidents Young and Kimball & many saints crossed 
the horn & returned to Winter Quarters & on the way we were overtaken by one of the most 
tremendious stonn of rain hail & wind. We were drenched with water from head to foot & 
returned cold & chilly. 30 mils. 

4th Sunday Spent the day at home. 

5th 6, 7, 8 I spent the time mostly at home prepareing to leave. 

9th I crossed the river called upon President W Richards & conversed upon the subject of his 
situation. He was lying sick & had been for many months. Presidents Young & Kimball with 
their Companies had gone on. He was left behind & had not means to go with. I was waiting to 
see if I could assist him in any way. 

I recrossed the river & took my family & moved them into Carterville 2 miles from Kaneville 
into the house of Br Dominicus Carter. 12 m. 

10th I spent the day at home. 

1 1th Sunday I preached to the Saints in Car-terville then rode to G. A. Smiths spent a few hours 
& returned home. I administered to one sick. 6 m. 

12 We went to G A. Smiths & brought him & family to our house & carried him back again. We 
had a good visit together. 

131 spent the day at home. 

14th I rode to G A Smith’s took him into my carriage then rode to the ferry. Dined with Br 
Bensons at night. Crossed the river to See Br Richards. Just as we landed the blowing of the 
Bugle & rush to arms & report that Indians were coming upon the people created quite an 
excitement in the place. 

About 80 men assembled together but were in a poor State for an attack. But no indians came. 


Page219 




They were addressed by A Lyman G. A. Smith & W Woodruff upon the necessity of being well 
armed & prepared for Indians attacks while in an Indian Country. The men were required to meet 
evry night at sun set for drilling. The night previous to this the Omahas came upon some 
Pawnees who were in the place & fired Arrows upon them. They returned the fire with powder & 
ball but none killed. We returned to Br Richards & spent the night in his carriage. 

During the day while the Boat went up the river to cross over the river one of then Boatman was 
knocked overboard & was drowning. Capt Hewit jumped overboard to save the man & they 
would have both drowned had not A Pawnee jumped into the river & saved them both. 14 m. 

151 spent the day in winter Quarters. We rode to the cold springs twice to the mill & other places 
with Br Richards during the evening we crossed the river & returned home by moon light. 15 m. 

161 spent the day at home. 

17th I spent the day at home preparing my things & stowing them away in Br Carters house. I left 
with him [] my large Box containing my Beding Clothing & A great variety of articles Also A 
chest filled with tent cloth Bags, Iron, Chains, & sundry articles A pork Barrel filled with [p?]ails 
Iron ware &c A Buffalo robe trunk tray &c one new Horse harness &c. &c. 

18th Sunday I rode with my family to the Tabernacle & met with W Richards O Hyde G A. 

Smith And A congregation of Saints. W Richards addressed the meeting & laid his situation & 
wants before them. He wanted oxen waggons & money to fit him out to go to the mountains with 
his Brethren who had gone before him. G A Smith followed him & W. Woodruff & O Hyde 
upon the Subject. 

I dined with W Richards at Br Hydes. A Committee was appointed to go & obtain means for Br 
Richards. 

At the Close of the meeting I took the Parting hand with many of the Saints among whom was W 
Richards & O Hyde. Br Richards Blessed & said the spirit & power of God should rest upon me 
on this mission that I should say in the end that it was one of the best missions I ever took that no 
power should prevail against me & many other blessings he pronounced upon my head. 

I then rode to Brother Carters, took Malinda Thomas into my Carriage (who had been labouring 
for us) & Carried her home on Pigeon creek. 18 miles. Whole distance 25 m. I spent the night at 
Br Strat-tons. 

19th I returned to Br Carters. 18 mile. I sold A waggon to Moses Martin for $25 in clothing. 

20th I spent part of the day at home. Walked to G. A. Smiths but did not see him. 4 m. 

21 st We started on our Journey this day rode 16 miles * & stoped on Silver Creek & camped for 
the night. 


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22d We rose this morning & found my mules were gone. We Hunted but Could find no trace of 
them. We thought they were stolen. It soon commenced raining hard. 

Br Carter & myself took each of us a horse & rode in the cold rain about 25 miles around the 
country but still could get no trace of them. But in the evening one of the Neighbors found them 
about 6 miles down the creek. (25) m. 

23d We travled 29 miles & Camped 5 miles west of Indian town. 29 m. 

24th Travled 20 miles & camped on Sand Stone spring. We found A plenty of Stawburies on the 
rode & had A feast of them at night. 20 m. 

25th Sunday Our company consisted of myself & family & Dominicas Carter with my carriage & 
Br Russel Homer had A waggon & carried with him Libeas T. Coones, John Mcmurry & David 
M. Gaminit making eleven person of us all. 

We arose this morning & found one of Br Homers Horses gone. They mounted my mules & one 
horse & 3 men started after him. They followed him on the road east 3 miles on his tral. We rode 
on to Evens Camp & spent the night. 15. The Brethren spent the day Hunting their horse. Br 
Coones shot A fine deer this morning which made us A plenty of fresh meat. 

26 We started at 6 oclok. Drove 7 miles to the 20 mile prairie. Entered that at 1/2 past 8. We 
found some bad slues & creeks difficult to cross. On the latter part of the Prairie we were 
overtaken with A hard thunder Stonn And At the close of it Elder O Hyde Br. Johnson & others 
drove up drenched with rain. In A few moments Another hard Storm of wind & rain came upon 
us & when that was Closed we drove several miles to Brother Roundys waggons on the open 
prarie. We stoped & spent the night all drenched with rain. 27 miles. 

27th We arose at day light & rode to Mount Pisgah. 15 miles. Br Hyde went to Br Daneys. Br 
Carter & myself went to Br Halls. Mrs Woodruff was nearly sick. 

We all met at 5 oclock. The meeting was addressed By Br Hyde who was Constrained by the 
spirit of God to teach principle & reprove iniquity. W Woodruff followed him in the same strain 
& was Constrained by the spirit & power of God to reprove iniquity & sin in great plainness & it 
done good. We appointed a meeting at 2 oclok next day. 

28 I had an interview in the morning with Br Aaron York who told me how all things were with 
him & the Church as he knew. 

We met at 2 oclok. I Addressed the people upon principle & gave them Council. Br York 
followed & withdrew from the Presidency of that Branch of the Church. We then appointed by 
the voice of the people Edwin Whiting for President & [ ] Whiting & [ ] Demill for 

Councellor. All parties were satisfied. 

29th We parted with the Saints & left Mount Pisgah & rode to Garding grove & spent the night 


Page221 




with Elder Thomas Kingson. We were truly glad to meet once more. Distance of the day 37 m. 

} I wrote A letter to Br Alpheus Cutler. 

30th We held a meeting with the Saints at Garden Grove & found all things right. We tought 
principle & had a good time. Many spoke & a good spirit prevailed. 

July 

July 1st We again met with the Saints for a prayer meeting & had a good time. Br Dainy and 
Kingsley arived in the evening to Journey with us. 

2d Sunday We left Garding Grove & drove to Sharaden point And Camped near Mr Townsend. 
40 m. 

3d Drove to Soap creek & camped for the night. 40 m. 

July 4th We drove to Stringtown saw Br David Crocker And camped by Br J Alreads. 35 miles. 

5th * We drove 15 miles to Br James Williams. We spent the afternoon & night with Br 
Williams And had an interview with Br Samuel Miller. 

During the evening A hard thunder Storm was Approaching us. My Mules were tied to A large 
oak tree on the opposite side of the street. I felt impressed to move my Mules away to another 
place. I did so. I also removed my Children out of the carriage & made them a bed in the house. I 
also moved my Carriage one rod down to the house in which Mrs Woodruff myself & one child 
slept. We had Just retired to bed when the storm reached us with great fury. In A moment the 
large oak tree came thundering to the ground with A mighty crash. Had I not have moved my 
Mules it probably would have killed them. Had I not have moved my Carriage it would have 
crushed it to atoms And killed us dead for the body of the tree fell whare my Carriage stood & 
Just missed Br Kingleys waggon. I Considerd it an interposition of Providence to save our lives. 
15. 

6 We travled through Bonaparte & Farmington & camped for the night 4 miles west of bonaparte 
& travled 20 miles. 

7th We drove to Br Mott's & dined in sight of Nauvoo and the Temple. We had A view of it 
through our glasses. We then drove to Keokuck & spent the night with Br Fisher. 27 miles. 

8th I spent the day in Keokuck. Visited several of the Brethren Also Ross B. Hughes. 

9th Sunday In company with Brothers Dana & Kingsley I rode g in my carrige to Montrose. 

Dined with Br Beebe. 

We then crossed the river on the steem ferry boat to Nauvoo. We called upon Alrnon Babbit. 
Then in company with John Snider I visited the Temple & went over it from the bottom to the 


Page222 




top whare I once more had A full view of the once beautiful but now desolate city of Nauvoo. 

The temple was in a much better state of preservation than I expected to find it. The people in the 
City of Nauvoo were much excited from A report that Elder Hyde would preach in the Temple 
that day. They had made many threats upon the subject & some Came in waggons from the 
Country to hear & see but the excitement was all among themselves for Elder Hyde had given out 
no such appointment. 

I returned to A Babits & found A man who had come from Mishigan to enquire after the gospel 
& to see the saints. I was introduced to him & told his business. I preached the Gospel to him one 
hour. He then [went to the] river in Nauvoo And I Baptized him And we returned to Br John 
Snider in the House that G. A. Smith Built. We there Confirmed him & I ordained him an Elder. 
Gave him A license to preach the gospel & he went his way rejoicing. I spent the night with Br 
Snider. 

10th I Called upon Elder Bahbit & spent the morning. I bought the six volumns of the Times & 
seasons of Babbit for $7. 1 then went down to Hiram Kimballs & dined with him & visited his 
garding was the finest garding in the western Country. I then called upon [Da?]niel Luce keeping 
school in the masonic Hall who seemed dejected. I then crossed the river to Montrose. Spent the 
night at Br Bowens. 

1 1th I sold my Mules Carriage & Harness to Samuel Beverly for $160 & Buffalo Robe for $3.70. 
I then took passage for Keokuck in the Hack, dined at Br Fishers & remained untill 8 oclok then 
took passage on board the Lucy Bertram for St Luis. We went on deck but we did not sleep any 
at all for it seemed as though the fleas Bedbuds & musketoes would have destroyed us. They bit 
ourselves & Children in a dredful manner. 

12th We passed Quincy Alton & arived at St Louis at 1 1 oclok at night. I spent the night fighting 
musketoes. Distance from Keokuck to St Louis 225 m. 

13th I called upon Br Felt 93 South 3d street. He went with us to 195 South 2d street whare we 
took a room to stop. The Heat was so excessive through the day & no circulation of air whare we 
were that it seemed as though we should die. I took A severe cold & head ake & was sick 
through the night. 

14th I was quite sick through the day. I walked out in the evening with Mrs Woodruff & bought 
two set of Musketoe bars. 

15 Moved to Br Gaulters 104 Washington Avenue, comer of 5th & Washington street. We were 
glad to meet. We talked over old times. Spoke of John Benbow. I was better to day than 
yesterday. 

16th Sunday Met with the Saints, A large Congregation. O Hyde addressed the Saints in the fore 
part of the day upon the subject of the resurrection. W. Woodruff Addressed the meeting in the 
afternoon. I saw many people I was acquainted with. 


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17th I spent the day at St Louis but left in the evening on board of the Herald at 5 oclok I took 
cabin passage with my family. 

18 Early in the morning the Pilot in a fog run the boat aground in A Pickerel swamp & it lay 12 
hours before it was got off. We could not get any milk for our little Shuah. She was taken with 
bowel complant & was vary sick. 

19th We past Peoria, Perue & arived at Lasell about sunset. Shuah Continued vary sick through 
the day and night. Distance from St Louis to Lasell 360 miles. Fare for myself and family $11. 

20th I Hiered a man to carry myself and family in A waggon to Br Luther Scammans 2 1/2 miles 
north of lost grove in Lamoile Bureau Co Illinois. We found him & Rhoda & their family all 
well. Our child suffered much during this days ride & was vary feeble when we arived & had a 
sick night. 14. 

2 1st We spent the day taken care of Shuah who suffered much through the day. It appeared 
evident she would soon be taken from us as she could not live long. 

{Shuah C. Woodruff Bom Oct 28th 1847 Died July 22d 6 oclok 1848 Aged 8 months 25 Days} 

July 22d 1848 Shuah Carter Woodruff Died 18 minutes past 6 oclok this day. Her sufferings are 
ended & she has gone to rest with Her brother & sister kindred spirits. 

July Sunday 23d We attended to the burial of our child, Shuah. She was buried in the garden of 
Br Luther Scammons A few rods South East of his dwelling. She was buried in A good black 
walnut Coffin set inside of An Ash box. I put up a lime stone slab at the grave with the following 
words well carve upon it which I done with my own hand. 

S. C. Woodruff 

Died July 22d 1848 Aged 9 Months 

[ ] 

Sarah Emma Bom July 14th 1838 Died July 17th 1840, Aged 2 years 3 days. 

Wilford jr Bom March 22d 1840. 

Phebe Amelia Bom March 4th 1842. 

Susan Cornelia Born July 25th 1843. 

Joseph Bom in Liverpool Eng July [ ] 1845 Died Nov 1 1th 1846 Aged 1 year 4 m. 

Ezra Carter Bom Dec 9th 1846 died Dec 1 1th 1846 aged 2 days. 

Shuah Carter born Oct 28 1847 Died July 22d 1848 aged 8 Months & 25 days. 


Page224 




July 24th Mrs Woodruff feels quite unwell to day. I spent the day at rest. 

25th Mrs Woodruff feels some better to day in health. She and her Sister Rhoda laboured hard all 
day at the wash tubs, while Br Carter & myself was busy in making the grave stone for our child. 

26th I went out in the morning with Mr Scam-mans gun & shot 4 times & Killed 5 prairie 
Chickens. We hoed potatoes in the Afternoon. 

Mrs Woodruff expressed her feelings concerning the loss of her Children & refused to be 
comforted because of her children which were taken away. 

27th I was unwell this morning. Spent the day quietly. 

28 {??????} Luther Scammans had 18 acres of stout wheat in the shock which he wanted to 
stack. So he rigged two teams And I took them into the field And during this day I pitched onto 
waggons the wheat which grew on twelve acres of Ground & A young man loaded it for me. 
Brothers Scammans & Carter put it into stacks as fast as we brought it in. Good judges of grain 
said it would yield 25 bushels to the acre. That being the case it would make 300 shock of wheat 
that I pitched onto the waggons in one day making 3,600 bundles. It was A vary hot day And I 
was not in good health. It was As much as A well man ought to have done in two days And it 
was imprudent in me doing it As I had done no hard labour for A length of time. At night I was 
sore from the crown of my head to the souls of my feet. I went to bed. My nerves were so 
unstrung I Could not sleep at all. 

29th I was sore with my labour yesterday yet I exercised some. Mr Scammans with two teams 
drew up the remaining 6 acres of wheat to day & stacked it. 

30 Sunday I spent the day at Mr Scammans. 

3 1st Left Mr Scammans house to continue our Journey to Chicago by land. Mr Scammans 
Carried us in his waggon. We travled 28 miles & put up for the night. 

August 

Aug 1st Travled 40 miles & put up for the night. 

2d We rode 32 miles. Arived at Chicago at 2 oclock. Distance from Lamoile to Chicago 100 
miles. 

We went on Board of the Steemer Missouri St Louis for Buffalo & spent the night. 

Expenses to Chicago $3.40 

Paid L Scammons for passage $5.50 

$8.90 

3d A hard storm of wind & rain through the night. We left Chicago at 3 oclok. 


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4th We touched at Milwake & other places during the day. At night the wind arose & the Lake 
was vary rough. The Captain said it was the roughest time He ever saw in August. There seems 
to be some fatality attending my journeying on this Chain of Lake. Twice I have been wrecked on 
lake Michigan with my family & the boats nearly destroyed. We were in no particular danger last 
night ownly nearly all on board were sick. Myself & family was quite sick. 

5th We arived at Macannau at 5 oclok. We bout some trout which we relished. We stoped at 
Detroit one hour. Many passengers got on. 

/6 Sunday/ Our Son Wilford was taken vary sick in the night with A specis of the irricipilas. He 
was coverd with bloches from Head to foot & in great pain. He recieved A blessing by prayer & 
laying on of hands. 

7th We Stoped at Cleaveland at day light. Wilford rested some through the night but feels quite 
unwell this morning. We arived at Buffalo at 9 oclok. We spent the night on Board of the boat. 
Distance from Chicago to Buffalo 1,050 m. 

8th We took Packet Boat on the canal for Schenectady & travled through the 9th 10th & 1 1th. 
Arived in Albany on the eve of the 1 1th. Distance from Buffalo to Albany on the canal 360 m. 

12th We took the rail road for Boston. Were 11 hours on the way. Distance 200 miles. 

We put up for the night at the Western Echange Hotel. After tea I took A walk over Cambridge 
bridge to Cambridge port & found Br Alexander Badlam Manufacturer of Coach Piano Forte 
And furniture copal Varnish Corner of Washington & Main Street Cambridgeport. I here found 
Elders Felt & Robins. I was truly glad to meet with them all, & to get to the end of my journey 
which had been A long & tedious one with my family of 2,595 miles Journey from Council Bluff 
to Boston by land & waggons, rivers, lakes, canals rail roads &c &c. Whole distance 2,595 m. 

13th Sunday I met with the Saints in Boston. Lewis Robins spoke in the fore part of the day. I 
followed him. I dined with Br Cannon. 

In the Afternoon I Addressed the meeting. Was clothed with the spirit of God & was blest & 
edifyed as were the congregation. I was followed by Br Nathaniel Henry Felt, Dominicus Carter 
& [ ] Dudley. All spoke in the spirit of the Lord & was edifyed. 

I was introduced to Capt John /Joseph/ Russel of Miramichi New Brunswick. He is the Presiding 
Elder of that Branch of the church Miremichi N. Brunswick. He went home with me & took tea 
& spent the evening with me. I had A happy time with him. I found him to be a good spirited 
man. 

14th I spent the day at Br Badlams & met at his house in the evening with the Elders And had a 
good time. We blessed Brother Russel. 

15, 16, 17 Was spent at Br Badlams. I wrote two letters one } to Elder Appleby one to Elders 


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Little & Hardy. 

18th Elder Rockwood called upon us this evening & spent the night with us. 

19th I spent A Part of the day with Br Rockwood in the City of Boston. Br Little spent the 
evening with [me?]. 

20th Sunday I met with the Saints in Boston. Br Rockwood spoke in the morning. Br Little 
followed him. We partook of the sacrament. I Addressed the meeting. A larger Number were in 
than had been for A long time. Some Apostates of the worst Class. The powers of darkness tried 
to prevail for A little time. Still I was blessed. Br Little followed me. We returned & spent the 
night at Br Badlams. 

2 1st I spent the day with Brs Little Rockwood Carter Felt Robins & others. In the perusal of the 
publications of the day we discover calamity among the nations. Thrones 'T are being cast down. 
War & rumours of wars fires & Judgments on evry hand. During the last week one forth part of 
Albany is laid in ruins by fire. Loss from 3 to 5 millions of dollars. The great out break in Ireland 
that was expected has closed without much sheding of Blood but it seems that nearly every part 
of Europe is in war. 

22d The Steemer Cambria has Arived from Liverpool bringing information that in the out break 
of Ireland Gen M Donald was killed and 6,000 troops And A prospect of the sheding of much 
Blood. Great excitement prevails. 

23d } } I wrote 4 letters to England one to O Spencer one to Dan Jones one to John Enion, one to 
Joseph Hall. Brother Joseph Russel called upon me in the evening. Capt Dudley was here in the 
evening And manifested A singular spirit. Ilus Carter called upon us in the Afternoon. 

24th I spent the day at home writing. 

25th I went into Boston with Brothers Robins & Badlam. 

26th * I recieved the Daily Times this morning saying that news had been recieved from the city 
of the Salt lake as late as the first of May & that the Saints was in a distressed condition for bread 
& that the crickets had eat up all their wheet & barley &c. How true it is we do not know. 

I recieved A visit from Elder Leonard Hardy. He stoped with me one hour. We then took the rail 
road & went to Haverhill. Took the express to Bradford & walked to Mr Burbanks And spent the 
night. Distance from Boston 30 m. 

27th Sunday We met with the Saints at Br Samuel B Hardy East Bradford. Br L Hardy addressed 
the meeting And I followed Him. We truly had A good time. 

We held another meeting in the evening And was also blest with the spirit of the Lord. Milton 
Holmes did not attend meeting but his wife did. She is opposed to the work in spirit. We spent 
the night with Br S. B. Hardy. 


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28th We spent the day visiting friends. I spent two or three hours with Milton Holmes. He is 
quite glooomy feels unhappy And hardly knows what Course to take. We were glad to meet. 

29th We rode to Lowell. Visited the Iron Founderies &c. Held A meeting in the evening with A 
few of the saints. 25. 

30th I Parted with Br Hardy. I rode to Boston He to Peterborough. I returned to my family & 
spent the night. 25 m. 

3 1st I went into Boston with Mrs Woodruff & done some traiding to the Amount of $23. 1 wrote 
A letter to Br Ilus Carter. 


September 

Sept 1st I wrote A letter to O Pratt & sent him L Wights } & O Pratt Hyde Pamphlets. I wrote to 

0 Hyde } W. J. Appleby, Jacob Gipson, N. H. Felt 5 letters in all. 

2d I spent the day at Br Badlams. 

3d Sunday I met with the saints in Boston there being Present Elders A Cordan, Lewis Robins & 
N. H. Felt. Elder Cordon spoke in the fore part of the day much to our Edifycation. Among other 
remarks he said that the sudjects were discussed in Heaven Concerning us on earth & evry 
subject wharein we were interest or were for our good would rest with wait upon our minds &c. 

1 followed him in the Afternoon I addressed the meeting. Was followed by Br Robins. We had A 
good time. In the evening Br Cordon spoke to A small number in Cambridgeport. I followed him. 
Had a good meeting. 

4th In company with My family I left Boston on the express train of cars for Portland. Through 
some misunderstanding the two trains waited for each other 3 or 4 hours so we did not get into 
Portland untill 1 oclok at night. We found Br Ilus F Carter waiting for us. He took us home. We 
spent the night with him. Distance 100 m. 

5th I spent the day in Portland. Called upon Ezra Carter & family. We ascertained that Father 
Carter had been in the day before to Carry us out there but did not find us & went home quite 
disappointed. Therefore Mrs Woodruff thought it best for her to go out to her Fathers house to 
see her Aged father once more. So she took Stage & went out & spent the night with him. He 
was quite out of health but got well Almost immediately as soon as he saw her. He was 76 years 
of Age And A visit from his Daughter Phebe was like one rose from the dead. We found all the 
friends glad to see us. 

6th I left Portland with my Children And rode out to Scarborough to Father Carters And was glad 
to once more see him & Sister Foss & their families. I spent the night at Father Carters. 10 m. 

7th Father Carter walked with me to Sister Foss & we spent the day. 


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8th } I wrote A letter to Br Wm. H Wilson at So St George And spent the day at Sister Foss. 

9th [] } I recieved A Letter from J. Gibson And wrote one to W. J. Appleby. I spent the day to 
Father Carters. He retains his memory & faculties of mind well. He has brought up one of the 
best families of Sons & Daughters that can be found in the State of Maine. 

During the day I read A work Called the young mans guide by Wm. A Alcott seventeenth Edition 
which contains many excellent morrals that are worthy of imitation & practice upon A great 
variety of subjects. It is A valuable work. I have one error in reading ie I read much more than I 
digest. The Above work is one of the best Gentile works I ever saw. 

10th Sunday We recieved A visit from Ilus & Martha. We spent the day at Sister Foss & had an 
agreeable time. We spent the night at Father Carters. Phebe Rhoda & Olive Foss was At home. 
Sister Foss has brought up her Children well And they Possess not ownly education but true 
accomplishments. 

1 1th Father Carter Attended town Meeting. I Stayed at home And read the Young Lady's Aid by 
Jason Whitman which contained much good council. 

12th [] I recieved two letters from W. J. Appleby & J. Gibson. I Ascertained that Br Appleby was 
quite sick. In the Afternoon In company with Father Carter, [.] B. Foss, Rhoda Foss, & Mrs 
Woodruff I left Scarborough & rode to Gray. Left Rhoda. Continue on to Glocester & spent the 
night. A heavy frost at night. 30 miles. 

13th A Cool morning. Ground coverd with frost. We passed through Auburn, Turner Livermore 
Jay bridge to Wilton to Freedom Moulton whare we spent the night. We came for the purpose of 
visitrig them. Here Sarah B. Foss Phebe W. Woodruff And Shuah C Moulton all own Sisters had 
the privilege of once more meeting together. It had been 8 years since they had met before. It was 
A happy meeting. Distance 45 m. 

14th I went with A boy fishing. I cought 2 1 trout & he cought 7. It made us A good meal. 

We went over Freedom Moultohs Farm. He has A good one of about 100 Acres. Mr Moulton has 
taught School 120 months equal to 10 years. We had A rainy night. 

15th It rains hard And Cold. I spent the day reading. 

16th I took A walk with Father, Moulton, Phebe & Sarah to the top of Spruice Mountain. We 
looked through our glasses & had A good view of all the surrounding country. We also rode [to] 
Wilton & back. 6 m. 

17th Sunday We spent the day at Mr Moultons. 

18th It rained hard through the day. We went to Wilton & returned. 

19th We took the parting hand with Br & Sister Moulton who had treated us kindly And we rode 


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to Gray * And spent the night. 50 m. 

During the evening we accompanied Rhoda Foss to A lecture deliverd at the Teachers Institute. 
The subject was the Oxigen of the human system. He said it was the Oxigen that entered the 
system that sustained life. That we recieved so much into our bodies each day And that we 
discharged so much each day. We flung of so much Oxigen at each respera-tion. He said the 
oxigen would meet with the Hydragen & carbon & create a heat or cholorie & this was the cause 
of the heat in man the same as it was with a burning lamp. And if Oxigen should scease to be 
created in man he would scease to breath or live. 

He explained the difference in Quantity of the Oxigen created from vegitables or animal food. 
That animal food produced far more Oxigen than vegitable, And that the body discharged Oxigen 
much faster in cold countries than in hot, & in Cold weather than in warm. And advised that 
people Subsist more upon Animal food in cold weather than in hot. He had tried it by going 
without Animal food for years And became convinced that it was injurious to him. He injoyed 
much better health since he made use of Animal food in Cold weather fat meat produces oxigen 
in far greater quantities than lean And believes this is one reason of the prevelant fevers in Hot 
Countrys & seasons. That Oxigen is created so much faster than it discharges that it breaks the 
law of nature And the man has to suffer in consequence of it. 

Oxigen is also recieved & discharged through the pores of the skin And hence their was great 
propriety in keeping the body Clean & washing often. He urged the necessity & importance of 
having all dwelling Houses School & meeting houses & all sleeping rooms well ventilated. Our 
sleeping rooms should be the largest rooms in the house instead of small bedrooms & them 
closed without any fresh Air. Go into A crouded room that is not well ventilated And the air you 
breath is poison to the Human System. 

Mothers should be careful to see to their Children that they do not lie with their heads Coverd up 
that they need not breath the air under cover. 

The faster A person respires or any creature the oftener he discharges Oxigen & the oftener he 
needs food & the shorter would be his live life without it. A bird can ownly live 3 days without 
food A man 9 or 12 A child not as long while some Animals or reptiles will live three months 
without it. A child needs food much oftener than A man. It respires oftener discharges Oxigen 
oftener which needs replenishing oftener. If A person lives without food the elements pray upon 
the body itself to creates oxigen. The flesh waste away & the persons dies. It is the fat of the bear, 
the ground Hog & all Animals that burrow up for months without eating that feeds the Oxigen & 
keeps life in the animal. Yet when he comes out he is poor. 

He also recommended that we put on warm clothing when we begin to feel the chill of Autum & 
not wait unill we feel the blast of winter. 

We should eat in the morning before we expose ourselves to riding in the Cold. And if we 
wished to save hay and provi[n?]der give our Cattle & Stock wann stables in winter for it would 


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take much more to sustain the system in the open air. He opposed the principle of Air tight 
stoves. They were not healthy And many other remarks were made by the speaker. 

I have discoverd in my travels of late in the eastern states A great exhertion Among the people to 
improve their system of education to make it interesting to the youth & changing the mode of 
teaching. The black board is introduced into the schools generally & it is found not profitable to 
confine the scholar in one place not more than an hour & are giving attention to children of weak 
lungs & stomach using gymnastics &c filling the lungs with air & exploding it suddenly with 
sounds like O, Bo, Ba &c loud to exercise the lungs making them stand strait. I find many good 
things of this kind among the people. 

But when we look for the things of the Kingdom of God it appears to me this nation was never 
more barren than at the present time. Their hearts seem to be bared up. They are bound in bands 
which are made strong & no man Can loose them. They seem to be ripe for the Judgments of 
God. And well they may be inasmuch as they have rejected the gospel shed the Blood of Prophets 
Apostles & Patriarchs & driven the church & Kingdom of God into the wilderness And have 
finally been Cut off from the Church & kingdom of God by A general vote & Acclamation of the 
Saints of God with uplifted hands to heaven in the Temple of the Lord at Nauvoo And who can 
expect to get access to the hearts of this Nation now? No one. Their Condemnation is made shure 
& their damnation slumbereth not. 

* 20th We rode to Scarborough. Carried Rhoda Foss with [] us. Spent the night at Fathers Carters. 
I recieved three letters from [I?] W. Appleby O H. Dudley And James H. Hannigan. 25. 

21st Note(2) Spent A part of the day at Fathers & part at Sister Fosses. We had a family meeting 
in the evening. Father Carter was present Also Joseph Fabyan. We had A good time. 

I expressed my feelings in plaineness concerning my course & the dealings of the Lord with me. 
Phebe Also spoke in great Planeness concerning her Course And that her Parents & friends 
would know in eternity why she had taken the Course she had in leaving her fathers house & 
following the Saints. The spirit of the Lord was with us. Br Carter spoke A few moments to 
edifycation. 

Father Carter said He was satisfyed with us And if their was A Society of the Saints whare he 
could spend the few remaining days with them which he had to spend on earth he would be glad 
to. It was an interesting time to us all. 

22 A hard rainy day. I spent the time to Father Carters. 

23d A rainy morning. Mrs Woodruff & Mrs Foss Carried me in a waggon to Saco. I then left 
them & took cars with Br D Carter & rode to Boston. Got A letter from Lucian Bonaparte 
Richmond. Went to Cambridgeport & spent the night at Br A Badlams. Found Elder A P 
Rockwood there. 100 m. 

24th Sunday Met with the Saints in Boston. I addressed them in the morning, Was followed by 


Page23 1 




Br Carter. The meeting was Addressed in the afternoon by Br Rockwood who exhorted the Saints 
to carry out the principles of the Epistles in emigating to the west. Did not speak but few minutes 
in consequence of weak lungs. I followed him & had the spirit of God & was edifyed. So were 
the people. 

25th ? '? I wrote two letters one to Mrs Woodruff one to Lucian B. Richmond. Br Rockwood 
spent the day with me & wrote to Br Joseph Young. 

In the evening we laid hands upon the head of Br Allexander Badlam & blessed him & Ordained 
him to be one of the Presidents in the sixth Quorum of the Seventies. Br Rockwood was mouth. 

26th I left Boston in the evening & rode on the cars to Worcester } And stoped at Br Moores 33 
Mechanics Street & spent the night. He Kept Borders & some of them had spirits that was not 
good, that were vary far from mingling with my spirit. I wrote A letter to Br O. Pratt of 
Liverpool. 48 m. 

27 * 1 spent most of the day in Worcester Attending the cattle Show. I saw some of the finest 
oxen 1 ever saw in my life. 1 saw one large Black ox that guirted 10 feet and weighed Alive 
4,200, two Durham oxen which were two of three twins calved at a time. Weight lbs. 2,200, 
each, A Manmouth Durham Cow guirt 8 feet weight 2,500 lbs. And 3 durham twin Calves 
looked well. The Above was in A show. In the pens I saw A Black ox weight 2,767 his mate read 
ox 2,750 one yoke of read oxen the fattest 1 ever saw the yoke weight 5,1 10 lbs And one Durham 
Calf 7 months old weight 800 lbs. 

During the evening 1 rode on the cars to North-bridge. The cars were all loaded down in such A 
manner that the Cars were loaded & crouded Almost to suffication. ft was crouded out on the 
platform untill they were in dangers of falling off. 1 called upon Br Wm. Sweat at Joseph 
Aldridge And spent the night. 15 m. 

28th 1 found sister Aldridge A good woman Also her daughter. They had recieved their 
endowments & were true & faithful. 1 met Br Sweat at Br Brown. He had been vary sick. Was on 
the mend. We Administered to him And he was blessed. We met with the Saints in the Afternoon 
And had good times. The spirit of the Lord was with us & we had a good time. } I wrote A letter 
to Samuel Brannan of Calafomia /And one letter to James Fergoson/. 

29th 1 parted with the Saints And rode to Worcester & spent the day. I visited the insane hospital 
which contained about 500 occupants. Their appartments were neat clean & comfortable. Br 
Haven went through with me. 1 left Worcester in the evening on the cars. Rode to Connecticut. 
Took boat for New York. 

30th We had rather of a rough night on the sound. We arived in New York at 7 oclock. 1 called at 
Mr Davids 160 spring street. The following are some of the Addresses in New York: Mrs Fuller 
204 Seventh Street east Number their being two of the No. Sister Sharug at 41 1 Hudson Street in 
the rear. Sisters Day & Hart 491 Greenwich in the basement. Sister Michel 105 Nineteenth street 


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between the 6 & 7 Avenue. Edward Cook (Clerk) & Sister Shelden 266 Mort street New York. 
Mr C. C. Watterhouse 84 Degraw St South Brooklin. David Malcolm 26 Columbia St South 
Brooklin. Distance from Worcester to New York 200 m. 

I spent the day walking about the City. I called upon Calvin Foss in the end of Pearl Street. I 
called upon Mrs Sloan. I spent the night at Mr Davids. 10 mile. 

October 

? Oct 1st Sunday I met with the saints in New York at the south west comor of Elizabeth & 

Grand Street over a porter Shop. I preachd to the People in the fore part of the day And was glad 
to met with the saints. 

In the Afternoon I addressed them sumwhat lengthy. Spoke of the Sacrament. Quoted the 
revelation saying that Jesus would drink the wine anew with us on the earth with all the righteous 
from Adam down to the last saint. Exhorted the Saints to be faithful that we might be among the 
Number. Their had got to be so much done before Christ would Come & when he did Come He 
would labour with all the Saints a thousand years through the whole Millinnial in order to 
prepare the Kingdom of God on the earth that it might be presented spotless, pure & finished to 
his Fathers Throne. 

Many other remarks were made After which the sacrament was Administered. And as the 
Presiding Elder had left And they now had no presiding Elder it was Necessary to Appoint one. I 
presented to them the necessity of being united in this thing. I recommended to them Br T 
Cartwright as A Presiding Elder. He was nominated seconded & carried unanimously for A 
presiding Elder over the New York Branch. Brs Evans Hyers were Appointed his Coun-cellers 
And Edward Cook Clerk. I ordained Br Thomas Cartwright to the office of Elder. I blessed one 
child. 

After meeting I went to Br Cooks & took tea, After which I had some talk with Mrs Cook. I then 
returned to Mr Daviss And spent the night. The Books presented 65 members of the Saints in 
New York. It rained hard through the day & night. 

2d It continues to rain hard, yet I travled through the day in New York & Brooklin to visit the 
Saints. I got wet. Took cold. Had sore throat. Lungs filled up. Went to bed sick at night. It rained 
exeeding hard through the night. 10 m. 

3d I arose quite unwell this morning my lungs much filled up. It continues to poor down rain like 
a flood. This is the third day that it has rained hard day & night attended with High winds which 
will probably prove vary disasterous to Seaman. I was expecting to go to Philadelphia today but 
it stonns so Hard And I am so unwell I will spend the day at Mr Davis while the rain is pouring 
down. Br Kane came in & spent the night with me. I wrote A letter And Mailed to Mrs 
Woodruff. } } 

4th I left New York. Took rail Car. Arived at Philadelphia in the evening called upon Elder Jacob 


Page233 




Gibson 83 Dock street opposite the post office. Attended meeting with him in the evening. I 
addressed the Saints A few moments. Returned home with Br Gibson & spent the night. 120 m. 

5th I called this Morning upon Sister McMinn in Schoolkill 6th Street Between Market And 
Chesnut street. I then Called upon Col Kane Clerk of the United States Court. He had many men 
in his office yet as soon as he saw me he laid aside all other business & came & grasp my hand & 
seemed much delighted to see me. He talked with me about 15 minutes upon A variety of 
Subjects. 

I then retired from his office & called upon Br. Gibson untill 2 oclok. Sister McMinn then 
accompanied me to Br Sniders And Br Hammers Popler street 5 doors below 13th. We here saw 
Sister Poulter. Br Hammer went with me to Br Johnsons, & to Br Gibsons. Distance 8 mi. 

2 ^ Their was quite A display in Philadelphia to day in depositing the remains of Comodore James 
Biddle in the vault of the Biddle family. His remains were deposited with milertary honors of 
about twenty milertary Companies & three bands of music. This was Accompanied with display 
of flags from Public buildings chiming of Bells, firing of minute guns from the Navy yard &c. 
Comodore Biddle is the Eleventh Comodore whose remains have been deposited in Philadelphia 
And the eight or ninth who have died here. The ten preceding comodore Biddle who were buried 
in Philadelphia were Comodores Decatur, Bainbridge, Barry, Truxton, Shaw, Hull, Rodgers, 
Porter, Elliot and Dallast. 

6th } } I wrote two letters one to Elder Thomas Andrews Montreal one to A Badlam. 1 visited A 
number of Saints during the day. 

7th 1 walked down to the office in the morning. Elder W. I Appleby soon came in. We went 
together to the court House & called upon Col Kane. His office was full of men on Business yet 
when he saw me he came to us left his business & conversed with us with deep interest upon our 
cause. Said he had fears that there was trouble brewing against us in the west of Iowa & wished 
me to give him the earliest information of any thing against us. 

8th Sunday I met the Saints of God with many strangers in the old Mormon Hall or Marshall Hall 
on third above willow street. I addressed them in the morning from the words of Jesus to his 
deciples "that as it were in the days of Noah & Lot so shall it be in the coming of the son of Man, 
&c. I had the spirit & power of God resting upon me & I spoke of the signs of the times And 
warned them to keep the commandments of God that they might escape the Judgments of God. 

I addressed the Saints in the Afternoon And had A good time. We took tea with Br Adams on 5 
st above Brown A tobaconist. Br Appleby Preached in the evening from Gal ch 7, 8, 9 vers 
Though we or an Angel from Heaven &c. He spoke well & much to our edifycation. 

I followed him. Bore testimony to the work Addressed the saints & dismissed the meeting. I had 
A good time all day And the best meeting that I have had in the eastern country on this mission. 

9th I gave Br Appleby A Recommend to Preach & organize the Churches in Pa. NJ & Delaware 


Page234 




in my Absence. Brs Carter & Kane came In the evening. } } I wrote two letters & sent A Bundle 
of New York Herraids to W. Richards. One letter was [to] O Hyde, one to G. A. Smith. I 
Recommended the recall of L O Littlefield. I spent the night at Br Gibson on Wallace street near 
spring garding with Br Apple-by. 

10th I parted with the friends took cars & rode to Newark & spent the night with Br Luke Provost 
No 4 Holseys Court Newark N.J. 100 m. 

1 1th ^ I wrote two letters one to Phebe W Woodruff & one to Jeremiah Brower Hempstead LI. I 
reoieved [] A Prospectus for subscribers from Br Hyde & a line from him. 

I spent the day at Br Provost. I held A meeting at his house in the evening with A fiew of the 
Saints And organized the Branch of the Church in that Place called Newark & Spring Garding 
branch. I appointed Br John Sanderson of Rowway the Presiding Elder over that Branch of the 
Church. I Blessed two children. 

12th I left the saints at Newark. Took cars for New York. Called upon Sisters Day & Hart at 491 
Greenwich street. Enquired into their circumstances & an afair of L. O. Littlefield’s. Then Called 
upon Mr Davids And upon Mrs Sloans, Calvin Foss, And upon Br Cartwright 917 Christie Street 
New York. 20 m. 

13th I called upon several of the Friends. Crossed to Brooklin. Called upon Br Faloohn 2[6?] 
Columbia st & C. C. Watterhouse 84 Degraw Street. At 4 oclok took cars to Hempstead. Called 
upon Br Jeremiah Brower & spent the night. 34 m. 

14th } I spent the day at Br Browers. I wrote A letter to Orson Hyde And gave an account of the 
cause of L O Littlefield returning to New York & going back & c. 

15th Sunday I held A meeting with the Saints & world. Communed with the saints And left them 
in charge of Jeremiah Brower. I spent the night with Brower. 

16th * I finished reading A work this morning entitled A man of Sorrows or the providence of 
God displayed By Wm. Jackson S.B.C. Minister of the Gospel of South Boston Church. It was 
truly an interesting work Showing his sufferings from his Childhood up & the dealings of 
Providence with him. His sufferings are vary great. 

I parted with the Saints this morning & took cars to South Brooklin. I called upon Mr Watter 
House who treated me kindly. I met A number of the saints at Br Cartwrights And had A good 
council. They renderd me some assistance. 

} I wrote A letter to Orson Pratt And spoke of L. O. Littlefield C[an?]e And of others in England. 
I walked out in the evening with the Brethren & spent the night with Br Cartwright. 35 m. 

17th I had an Interview with Br Hollister A few moments in the morning. Made me A Present to 
Assist me in my necessities. I took boat & went to Norwalk ct And called upon Mr Valentine 


Page235 




Merrill & spent the night. Distance 45 m. 

18th ? } } I wrote three Letters one to Br David Bishop one to Smith Tuttle And one to Phebe W. 
Woodruff. I wrote 10 verses of Poetry in Mrs Woodruff letter. 8 hours intervened between 
writing the 5 and 6 verses during which time I went out with Mr Merrill in an open row boat to 
get oysters. We were caught in A gale of wind & rain blown off from shore. Was picked up by A 
four ton sloop & carried to land. While going in we carried away our gib twice. Came near 
runing onto the rocks but we got in in safety with no other damage but being drenched with rain 
the reward of which was A plenty of Oysters for supper. After getting through my Oyster Supper 
I wrot the last 5 verses And retired to rest for the night. The verses above alluded to will be found 
on the following Page. The following is also an extract from my letter to my wife: 

I have been much blessed with the spirit of God since I saw you I have felt more of the presence 
and Power of God with me than I expected to have enjoyed on this eastern mission. I have felt 
that some one has Prayed much for me of late; I wonder if it was Phebe. I know you Pray much 
for me. I feel its power And Prize it much. I have never felt such A desire to prove worthy of 
your Confidence and trust, shun evry appearance of evil, keep out of the path of all temptation, 
And do right in all things as I have of late. 

I have had much of the spirit of secret Prayer, have poured out my soul in supplication before 
God with tears of Joy, while the visions of my mind have been open at times to see clearly my 
duty to my God to my wife and Children, to the Saints And world at large. 1 have also seen of 
late the Awful Certain judgments of God which like a gathering Stonn are ready to burst upon 
the whole gentile world esspe-cially this Nations, who have herd the Sound of the gospel, 
rejected it with all the testimony of the servents of God, Have stoned And killed the Prophets are 
drunk with the Blood of marters And Saints And At last have driven the entire Church & 
kingdom of God with the Priesthood And Keys of eternal life & salvation out of their midst into 
the wilderness & the mountains of Israel. And by so doing have turned the last key which seals 
their Condemnation which lingereth not And their damnation which slum-bereth not. Therefore 
they cannot escape. Not ownly the Holy Ghost but that portion of the spirit of God that 
enlighteneth evry man that cometh into the world, like A faithful embassador has finished his 
work And is rapidly taking its flight from Gentile America And Wo , Wo , Wo is their DOOM. 

The following verses I penned to my wife at Norwark Ct Oct 18 1848: 

When Shall I hear from my dear wife 
From those poor suffering Pilgraims too 
Whose prayers shield me from that strife 
Which daily flow from sin and wo? 

It leams me how to prize their worth 
When I am from them far away. 

Earthly honors could not Call me forth 
Or make me leave them for so long A day. 


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But O A message I am Call to bear 
For Him who gave and holds my life. 

In many A Sacrallze I'm Call to share 

Often to leave my sons, my Daughters, and my wife. 

0 my Father Shield them with thy power 
Behold their earnest Prayers which mount on high 
Let Heavens watchers guard their silent Bower 
Answer their prayers and note their evry sigh. 

Their faith thou hast ever seen 
Their sufferings Thou alone dost Know. 

None but Thee can tell what all their trials have been 
Since they were wandering pilgraims here below. 

O my Father guard them through all time to come 
Let their days and years be lengthend out. 

O call them not to leave my earthy home 
But make A Heaven of my humble Cot. 

May they fulfill all their visit here 
As did their LORD then rise to reign 
Inthroned in glory beyound the reach of fear 
Or sickness sorrow death or pain. 

O! God forgive the past. Keep me from future 111. 

Let light, wisdom, truth and virtue fill my heart. 

Prepare me for that glory which doth the Heavens fill. 

From the most holy anointed vows may I never part. 

O give me power to honor those noble treasures given 
As the first pillars to build my Kingdom on. 

Help me to firmly stand with them in Heaven 
That I may prove A true and faithful son. 

Then I will reign with my Dear wife and children to 
With Joseph and Hiram and all of Abrams seed 
I'll shout Hosannah to God and the Lamb with all who go 
From their graves with the redeemed of our DEAD. 

19th I spent the day at Mr Merrills writing. The stonn of last night continued untill to day noon 
when the sun came out. I had A plesant time last night in A dream with Brs Brigham Young & H. 
C. Kimball And the Saints in the Salt lake Valley. We expressed our feelings to gether 
concerning the signs of the times & the Judgments of God which await this nation. 

I had a good meeting with the Saints at Mr Mer-rills. I spoke to them one hour & read the epistle 


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of the Twelve to them &c. 


20th Elder David A Bishop of Stamford Ct called upon me early in the morning. I went home 
with him to Stamford. Conversed with him untill 2 oclok. I then took stage & rode to New 
Haven. Got in at 10 oclok at night. I called upon Wm. Hand 59 Green Street New Haven & spent 
the night. Distance 50 m. 

2 1st I called upon Sister Coffort Vining 3 1 Wm. Street And spent the fore part of the day. She 
was A worthy woman & strong in the faith. Also sister Hand. I Called at Mr Smith Tuttles. 

Found sister Tuttle sick. Was As yellow as saffern. I Administered to her by the laying on of 
hands. I then called [on] Mr Jesse Luddington water street. 

Sister Tuttle recieved A Blessing by the laying on of hands. Most of her friends had expected she 
would die but she was healed by the laying on of hands. A number of Comforters like Jobs had 
called upon her And reproached her because she was sick inasmuch as she professed to believe in 
God And asked why [she] did not Call upon her Elders to heal her. This was done to reproach 
her. And she spoke out And said O that the Lord would send Br Woodruff here. It was but A few 
minutes before she recieve A note from me stateing that I was coming And when I laid hands 
upon her she was healed indeed And felt to Praise the Lord. I spent the night at Mr Lud-dingtons 
on water street Fair haven. 

22d Sunday I met with the saints at Father Jairus Sandford And Among others Present was Mr 
Smith Tuttle And his wife that was healed and soon after she left to come to meeting her 
daughter came to the house to take care of her supposing her to be vary low but found she had 
gone to meeting. 

I preached in the morning to the saints And had a good time. The spirit & Power of God rested 
upon me. I spent the intermission At Br Sandford's. I spoke again in the afternoon to the Saints & 
broke bread with them And had a good time. I went to Mr Smith Tuttles and spent the night. 

I spent about one hour with Mr Wm. B Goodyear whose Address will be Anapolis Maryland As 
he will sail for that place. He was Brother to Miles Good-yier of the Salt Lake valley whom I saw 
in the mountains. He made many enquiries about him. Said he left New Haven while young. 

23d ■]: I spent the day visitng the saints. I Conversed much with Elder Jarius Sandford. I felt 
strongly impressed by the spirit of the Lord to ordain him to the office of high Priest And 
Patriarch. The spirit also manifested to me that He was of the Loins of Joseph through the linage 
of Ephraim and before I left him I ordained him to the office of High Priest And Patriarch on this 
twenty third day of October AD 1848 He being 85 years 10 months & 2 days old. 

He has also done much good to the church. He paid into the hands of Elder Satine $267 dollars 
for his tithing And $163 for Sarine own use, And $17 dollars to E. T. Benson. Has given $700 
dollars in all to help the Saints And for Tithing. He gave W Woodruff $3 to pay his fare &c &c. I 
left the old Patriarch rejoicing in his God. 


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I then Called upon Smith Tuttle. Spent the Afternoon. 

Went to New Haven in the Evening. Preached at Sister Vinings And Baptized & confirmed 3 
persons. Spent the night at Sister Vinings. 8 mile. 

24th Rode to North Haven. Called upon Orrin Mansfield At North Haven. Rode Around with 
him to see the saints & held A meeting with them. Advised them to keep up their organizations 
& hold meetings. I had A good meeting with them. I spent the night At Br Mansfields. I got 5 
subscribers at Fair Haven for the Frontier Guardian. 15 m. 

25th * I took cars at North Haven & arived in Boston at 12 oclok. Got onto An omnibus to go to 
Cambridgeport but got Blocked up by the great Procession marching through the City in 
celebration of the introduction of the water from the long pond into the City of Boston. The 
Procession was two hours and 30 minutes passing any given point. It was considerd the greatest 
display ever made on any occasion in an American City And supposed to be more people in 
Boston than ever known before. 

The procession itself was supposed to be 7 miles long. Archways were formed across the streets 
decked with ever greens & flowers And A Pyramid of evergreen & flowers over top bearing A 
great variety m[otion?]. 

The procession started from the Common 15 minutes past 12 N. First came A powerful band of 
lancers, then followed thirty military companies with full uniform & several other bands of 
music, next the fire companies of the city with their Engines ornamented with wreathes flowers 
&c. Next fire companies from the Neighbouring towns. Next came the Cavalcade of 500 
gentleman & A few ladies. A boys fire Engine drawn by two ponies was followed by two of the 
largest size water pipes mounted on a platform drawn by 7 Black horses bearing the following 
mottoes: 1st First pipe laid April 19th 1847. Water introduced into the city oct 25th 1848. Next 
followed A Bricklayers platform with implements of th[eir?] trade followed by A Host of 
workman. 

Next followed the Boston boat Clubs with their Boats. Next came the Boston port society with A 
ship fully rigged And manned under the Command of Father Tailor. The Salem East India 
Marine And the old Marine societies followed bearing in their ranks the old palanquin which has 
not been seen in public for 40 years. This was borne by 6 stout Negroes. In A Carriage drawn by 
4 Horses was A large full rigged moddle of the famous and fortunate privateer the Grand Turk. 
Others Carriages followed containing specimins of American clocks, goods, carpeting &c. 

Next followed Oak Hall expresses, Ad[ams?] &c, Mrs Kidders, A printing office pased on 
wheels with workman all at work strewing papers cards & c Among the mass as they passed 
Along. 

Faneuil Hall Market in miniature came next & the great display of Beef mutton pork fowles fish 
vegitables &c I presume was A temptation to the hungry crouded lookers on. The market men 


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followed in great force with badges on their hats. A Stuffed Elephant passed mounted on A 
Carriage with 3 persons riding on his back. Also An Artificial flower manufactory drawn by 6 
Horses containing 12 young girls dressed in white All busy making flowers. An Apple tree filled 
with fruit passed by with Adam & Eve picking fruit & the serpent on the tree. All the masonic 
And odd fellow Companies of Boston was in the possession And hundreds of flags of costly aray 
borne onward. 

The first Division of the procession was under the direction of Hon John C Park & consisted of 
the Mayor of Boston, commitee of Arangments, watter committee water commissioners & 
Engineers Alderman President of the Common Concil members of the Common Council High 
Sheriffs of the state the Governor & suite &c &c escorted by the Boston Cadets And flanked by 
the city Greys. Following them was A long Aray of civel & military functionaries representatives 
of foreign nations, Among whom was borne the tri colored flag, the Clergy, medical faculty, 
Editors, members of the bar, governments of the neighbouring Cities, students of Harvard 
University, Mercantile Library Association in full aray, & scores of others companies not named. 

All along the route public buildings, Hotels, And private residences, wer crowded with Human 
beings, And the common was almost littlerly Coverd. 

At half past 4 oclok the Government of the city Headed by the Chief Marshall reached the 
Common & took their seat on A decorated platfonn in the centre of the pond, After which 
lengthy speaches were made by the Mayor And Mr Hale. At the Close of the speaches the Mayor 
Arose And said Fellow Citizens it is proposed to Admit the waters of Lake Cochituate into the 
city. All those in faver will say AYE. The response was in A voice of thunder. The signal was 
then given And upwards gushed A pure Column of water 8 inches in diameter 80 feet into the air 
& fell again into the pond. The cheering of the people at this moment was overwhelming. 

The night was passed with fire works & illuminations. While beholding these things going on the 
words of the Lord came with wait upon my mind which says "Broad is the road that leads to 
death & thousands flock together there while wisdom shows A narrow path with here And there 
A traveller." 

[] I went to Brother A Badlams & spent the night. I got 3 letters from Philo Dibble N. H. Felt &c 
And one Millennial Star. I found Br & Sister Wesley Siddle from Charlottetown N. B. 100 mils. 

26th [] } } I went to Boston And recieved 5 letters from Phebe W Woodruff, Smith Tuttle, James 
Whitehead, Edward Cook, And Lydia Hartford. After seeing the water spout in the common, I 
took Cars with Br Nathaniel Corey And rode to New Bedford. Spent the night with Gilbert 
Manchester 142 North Second street. I wrote two Letters to Phebe W Woodruff & James 
Whitehead. 75 miles. 

I spent the day writing. I wrote one letter to Lydia Hartford. } I read an account of the Temple of 
Nauvoo being burnt on the 9th Oct by our enemies. 


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In reading the papers of yesterday I learned that All Europe was filled with Riot war distress And 
calamities of Almost evry kind Also that the Cholery had made its Appearance in London 
Glasgow Edinburgh & others places in that Country. Truly the wrath of God is resting upon the 
gentile world. $1,000,000 worth of fishing boats were destroyed on the Coasts of Scotland in one 
storm & 150 fishermen loss there lives. Also $1,000,000 worth of American shipping lost in one 
storm on our coast. 

27th } I spent the day at New Bedford. I wrote one letter to Sister Hartford. I preached in the 
evening to a few Saints. 

28th I took cars with Br Gilbert Manchester & rode to fall River And spent the night with Elder 
John Duckworth. 30. There was A Branch of the English Saints in this place of 22 members. 

Elder Wm. Low of Cherry Street was the Presiding Elder. Many of them came in in the Evening 
to see me. 

29th Sunday I met with the officers of the branch in the morning at Br Lows. Fellowship had 
been withdrawn from Br John /Henry/ Druce for unbelief And speaking against the Authorities of 
the Church. He Arose before us And made his objections And wished them Cleared up. I 
Answered them all to his Entire satisfaction And he wished to be restored to the Church. 

We met in the Afternoon At Br Allens And Administered the sacrament. I Addressed them And 
we had a good meeting. I met with them in the Evening At Brother Duckworths and I preached to 
them And had A good time. I parted with the saints. Walked home 2 miles in the mud And rain 
with Br John /Henry/ Druce & spent the night with him. 6 m. 

30th I took cars, rode to Boston & spent the night at Br Badlam. [] I recieved A letter from Smith 
Tuttle. 75 mils. 

3 1st ? Br Rockwood came in the morning. I spent A few moments with him. He informed me 
that Br John Luce informed him that Letters had been recieved from the Salt Lake valley as late 
as the 9th of July that there Harvest of wheat came in full & heavy. They had wheat Enough 
Alone to last the Encampment two years. Also that they had large crops of com & was doing 
well. That it was Also Healthy. This was certainly Glorious news to us. 

Br Badlam went into Boston with me. I procured some things for my wife And children then took 
cars And Arived in Saco At 8 oclok. Hired A waggon And rode to Sister Foss's. I there found my 
wife And children And I spent the night with them. 105. 

November 

Nov 1st I spent the day at sister Foss. I recieved two letters from W [I?] Appleby And Wm. H 
Wilson. 

2d I spent the day writing. While At Br Henry Druce I saw A wonder. His son 4 years old was 


Page241 




sick. His stomach was enlarging. They soon found he had wonns. They gave him A Bottle of Dr 
Jayner's tonic vennifuge. Take 1 teaspoonful, 4 of water, one of Shugar. Mix them together. This 
He took at once twice A day untill it brought [away?] 40 worms 26 of which were preserved in A 
Bottle, 18 inch long & half inch in diameter. A number of them would measurre [ ]. The child 

got well. 

3d We had A dinner at sister Foss of A fine roast Turkey. Father Carter was with us. I spent the 
day there. 

4th Calvin Foss arived home to day having been burned out. We went to Fathers in the evening 
& spent the night. A Hard storm Arose in the night. 

5th Sunday We had A severe storm through the day & evening. 

6th f f f I wrote three letters one to O Hyde containing $10, one to Smith Tuttle, one to Little & 
Hardy. 

7th I 1 Election. This day decides who is Elected President of the United States for the next four 
years to come. I have not cast A vote for A President since this nation Shed the Blood of the 
Prophets Joseph And Hiram Smith Neither do I expect to. I spent the day at home while most 
men went to the Election. 

The Electric telegraph has become so perfect And universal through the United States that 
citizens of New York recieved the returns of many of the States of the Union before they did the 
returns of the City itself, And before the papers went to press next morning after the Election, 
returns had been recieved enough to show that Gen Taylor was Elected President of the United 
States by an overwhelming majority. 

8th I left Scarborough with Father Carter & rode to Portland with the intention of taking Steemer 
for Halafax but it had stoped runing & I found no passage there from Portland. I spent the night 
with Ilus Carter. 10 m. 

9th I returned to Scarborough by rail road to the Station & walked through A hard snow stonn 4 
miles to Father Carters. 10 m. 

10th I spent the day at Father Carters And night at Sister Foss. 

1 1th [] We got the New York sun And Herald. They contained the News from Europe And the 
returns of the Election up to the date of their publications. The Herald of Nov 1 1th 1848 
contained much informations from Europe And America. I recieved A letter from Dover. 

12 Sunday I spent the day at Sister Foss. I finished reading Gen Greens Account of the Texan 
wars And Battle of Mires [and] his imprisionment. 

13th I spent the day at sister Foss. 


Page242 




14th I spent this day at Sister Foss And Father Carters. 

15th Wednesday I spent this day also the 16th In preparing to leave Scarburough. 

17th I parted with Father Carter And sister Foss And their Families & with my family took Cars 
And rode to Boston. Then An omnibus And rode to Br A Badlams No 1 Washington Street 
Cambridgeport. Distance 120 m. 

[] [] On my return to Cambridgeport I recieved 5 letters from the following Persons: 2 from Orson 
Pratt, 1 from John Enions, Joseph Hall, W I Appleby, And one from Wm Maxfield of Bedeque 
directed to Orson Spencer of Liverpool And sent to me to Answer. I Also recieved 5 No of the 
Star All bearing good news of the progress of the work of the Lord in that Place. 

18th I spent the day in Cambridgeport Boston And South Boston looking for A House to rent. 

19th Sunday I met with the Saints At Boyolton Hall in Boston. I Preached in the fore part of the 
day, And spoke in the Afternoon And was followed by several of the brethren. Take it As A 
general whole we had a good meeting. 

20th We have had A tedious snow storm through the night And fore part of this day. Br Badlam 
And myself spent most of the day in Boston geting furniture And sundry Articles to furnish A 
House I had taken for my family in Cambridgeport on the comer of Harvard And [ ]. 

21st We spent this day in getting home our furniture & sundry Articles to keep house with. 

22d Nov 1848 I moved my family into the House which I Had rented of Mr [ ] McClure [ j 

Corner of Harvard And Davis Street Cambridgeport for $1 12 A year. 

23d [] I recieved three [letters] to day from the following persons: one from James Furguson, San 
Francisco, 1 from Joseph & Hannah Hall, 1 from Wm. Low fall River containing $5. 

24th Brs Badlam & Page were in my house this morning talking over their business matters. 

25th } } I wrote 4 letter to O Pratt, Wm Maxfield Little & Hardy And Wm. Low And mailed 
them in Boston. I Also sent Wm. Maxfield one of the Epistles of the Twelve. 

26th Sunday I preached to the Saints in Boston during the day. 

27th I spent most of the day at home reading & writing. 

28th ^ I wrote 4 letters to the following persons: Ezra Carter sen Ilus F Carter Thomas 
Cartwright And Wm H Wilson. I Also sent An Epistle to Br Wilson. 

29th I went to Boston with Mrs Woodruff & bought a bed And some other things And mailed 
letters. 

30th This is thanksgiving day in Mass. I dined upon A Baked goose And plum pudding with my 


Page243 




family. 

Br & sister Page took tea with me. Br & Sister Badlam Br & sister Bird & sister Luce spent the 
evening with us. I spoke upon the things of the Kingdom of God. I recieved A letter from [] } 
Little & Hardy & wrote one to Br Haven. 

I was At A large fire in Cambridgeport during the evening several Buildings Burned. 

December 

Dec 1st 1848 Sister Ruth Sayers called upon me in the morning as she was to leave this day for 
the west. She Asked A Blessings at my hands. I lade hands upon her in the name of the Lord And 
blessed her. 

2d I rode in cars & stage to Peterboro & spent the night with Br J C Little. Also saw Br & Sister 
Hardy. 60 m. 

3d Sunday I preached to the saints in Peter-boro & had A good time. 

4th 5th 7th & 8th I spent the past 4 days with Brothers Little & Hardy & the saints in 
Peterborough for it rained & snowed so much I could not travel. I wrote A letter } to Mrs 
Woodruff. 

9th I rode to Guilsom And spent the night with Chilon Mack, Soloman Mack & their Father Capt 
Mack came in & spent the night with me. Capt Mack and the Widow Lucy Smith Are brother & 
Sister. 30 m. 

10th Sunday It rained hard All day. I Preached to the few saints that were in that place. 

1 1th I rode in company with Soloman Mack to Br Waldos & spent the night. He rehearsed to me 
the difficulties that exhisted in the Walpole branch. 1 1 mile. 

12th I rode to Br Gates in the walpole branch & preached to about A dozen who come together in 
that place. There had been difficulties exhisting with the saints in that place for several years And 
I did not find any unity of feeling exhisting among them. 6 m. 

13th Rode to Brother Wheelers And Newtons & Preached in the evening to A congregation of 
the world at [Ac?]worth. 12. 

14th Rode to Peterborough And spent the night with Br Little in company with Elder Haven. 28 
m. 

15th I spent the day in Peterborough. Attended their Auction in the evening. 

16th I rode to Lowell And spent the night with Br Pe[t?]y. 50 m. 

17th Sunday I Preached to the Saints in Lowell. 


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18th I took Cars rode to Boston to Cambridge-port And spent the night with my family once 
more. 50 m. 

19th {6} I recieved 6 Letters from O. Hyde L. N. Scovil & L Gaulter, Wm H Wilson, T 
Cartwright, W I Appleby & Jesse Haven. I Also Recieved A Large amount of Paper which Br 
Badlam had bout for me to pick out files to send to the valley. I went into Boston with Br 
Badlam. 

20th I spent the day at home reading & writing, And I find {Gold} from the Publications of the 
day that the signs of the times Are fulfilling many of the Ancient as well as modem Revelations 
And Prophesies. Thrones are cast down. All governments of the Earth are tottering from their 
foundations. Anarchy & confuseion are begining to reign. Hatred strife and war are begining to 
be poured out upon the Children of men. 

In the midst of this order of things, the Latter Day Saints discover vast quantities of Gold at the 
base of the mountains of Israel in the valley of the Sacramento in upper Calafomia. And not 
ownly the people of the United States but of other nations ketch the sound of Gold Gold & tens 
of thousands are rushing forward evry way in their power to get to the gold country as A Horse 
would rush to Battle. But the Amount of Gold, silver, Coper &c discoverd in that Country 
indicates that the word of the Lord spoken by Isaiah will be fulfilled, when He says that "for 
Brass He will bring Gold "for Iron I will bring silver, for wood brass for stones Iron, & c. Truly 
this is an age big with Events. 

Companies Are forming in all most all parts of the United States And ships in all our ports 
pre-pareing to take the people to the Bay of San Francisco which is ownly 20 miles from Capt 
Sutters Fort whare the Monnon gold digings commenced. And It seems As though all the world 
thought of at the present time was to obtain gold. Though the Cholera has commenced spreading 
in New York once more yet the gold panic is so much greater then the fear of the Cholery that it 
is hardy noticed. 

Among the letters which I obtained yesterday was one from O Hyde who informed me that 
Olever Cowdery had come back to the Church had made satisfaction And was voted to come in 
by the door of Baptism. He was the first man baptized into the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter 
Day Saints in this last dispensation, under the Hands of Joseph Smith the Prophet but after being 
out of the Church Eleven years He had now returned again. And may the Lord bless him & Keep 
him steadfast unto the end. 

The following is A Fac similae of the Alphabet used in conveying intelligence by the magnetic 
telegraph: 

A.- B-... C... D-.. E. F.-. G— . H .... I.. J-.-.K-.- L- M- N-. 0[..] P- — Q..-. R.-. S... T- U..- V...- 

W.» X.-.. Y.. Z— - &- - l.». 2..-.. 3...-. 4....- 5— 6 7-.. 8- 9-.- 0- [sic]. [One line oj 

dots and dashes not decipherable.] < Remember the [law?] [-] of[-].> 


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2 1st I spent the day at home writing. 

22d [] } I went into Boston And done A little preaching. Brother Gates Called upon me & gave 
me A letter from Br Joseph Grover. I wrote one to him in return. Br Little spent the night with 
me. 

23d } I wrote 4 letter to Little & Hardy, to Orson Hyde to Scovil & Gualter, & Thomas 
Cartwright. 

24th Sunday Elder Little preached to us in the fore noon. I followed him. I preached in the 
Afternoon And sustained [him] in what he had done for the Church ie Br Badlam. 

Br Little spoke of my Calling And the duty of the Saints to me. I followed & treated upon 
principle. I dined at Mr Websters. 

25th I spent the day at home Christmas Day. It rained some. :]■ I wrote 3 letters to Wm H Wilson 
W I. Appleby And Charles Russell Linden Vt. 

26th :]■ I wrote And mailed two letters one O. Pratt one Capt Joseph Russell. I Also wrote one 
letter to Luther Scammans. 

27th [] I recieved two letters one from Sister Foss one from Brother Gibson. I had A nice Turkey 
for supper And Had A. P. Rockwood A Badlam Wm Page & wife And Br & Sister Bird to help 
me eat my turkey. 

28th I perused the New York Herald Weekly ending Dec 2[0?] 1848 And turne which way I will, 
the signs of the times Are presenting seenes of Deep interest to the saint of God living at the 
present time in the opening of this last Dispensation to prepare the way for the coming of Christ 
to reign 1,000 years on the Earth with his saints. All the Nations of the Earth at the present time 
both Jew & Gentile Are presenting to the eye of men seenes that were unlocked for by the 
ignorant or learned, the Philosopher, Asstronomer Poet, Divine, Editor, Dr, Lawyier Statesman, 
President, Ruler King Prince or Pope, which events are ownly understood by the man of God 
inspired by the power of God & the gift of the Holy Ghost. 

Such an one can perfectly understand the Present signs of the times. He can see the fulfillment of 
the words of the Lord begining to present themselves According to the prediction of all the Holy 
Prophets since the world began. Such are the ownly class who have faith in the litterel fulfillment 
of all the Revelations of Jesus Christ in the last days. They are the ownly ones who understand 
their fulfillment as the Events Are passing before them, or that have cause to rejoice therein. To 
all others the Sequel of the present signs of the Times Are hid behind the veil of doubts Darkness 
And uncertainty. 

29 & 30th We had A heavy snow stonn. I spent the time reading & writing. I perused the New 
York Herald to Dec 30 which contained interesting items spoken of in following pages. 


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3 1st Sunday The last day of the year of AD 1848. A synopsis of my Journal will be found on A 
following Page. 

THUS ends the Year of eighteen hundred and forty Eight A Year big with Events A year in 
which the fig tree hath rapidly put forth her leaves & blossomed for the summer. A year which 
has lade the foundation for the fulfillment of more Prophesy & Revelation than has been fulfilled 
in whole centuries in other Ages. Thrones have been cast down, whole Kingdoms have been 
overturned, the power of the Pope of Rome laid prostrate & he driven from his Kingdom. All the 
nations of the Earth convulsed. Revolutions Wars Anarchy & Confusion follow each other in 
rapid succession. Cholera plagues, & famine follow in the train. And last of All though not least 
in importance is the foundation laid for the disolution of the American Government. 

While these things are going on the Jews are gathering home to rebuild Jerrusalem. Some 7,000 
Latter Day Saints have gatherd into the valley of the Mountains of Israel by the Great Salt Lake. 
And the Saints of the valley of the Sacramento have discoverd vast quantites of Gold, silver, 
Coper Iron & other mettels the report of which has spread like Electricity through the world 
which is causing tens of thousands of the world to flock to that place. These are some of the 
features of the signs of 1848. 

The revolutions of Europe commenced with France. The people rose in mass had 3 days fight, At 
the end of which they drove Louis Philipi King of the French out of France with All the Royal 
family. The People entered the Turrelles took the Throne upon their shoulders carried it into the 
streets & dashed it to peaces upon the ground. 

The people then undertook to esstablish A republican government. It was said to be ownly 500 
killed in the first 3 days fight. Afterwards A reaction took place with A fight. Some 15,000 
killed. They have finally organized, And the world are now looking Daily for the Account of 
their electing A President And it is expected by many that much Blood will be shed on the 
occasion in consequence of the many Conflicting Parties. 

The german States And Prusia next follow in Revolution which is still unsetled. Next the People 
of Austria Arose And Drove the King from his Throne & Kingdom. He Afterwards returned with 
Armies And Bombarded Vienna 8 days And regained his Kingdom but has been driven to the 
necessity of giving his people A milder fonn of government & more toleration. Still his Throne is 
in danger. The Emperor of Russia has had much war And his Throne is in danger. The Irish have 
made A Struggle to throw of the Brittish yoak & they have failed. Yet deep trouble is brewing for 
that nation. 

The inhabitants of Rome have risen up in their strength And compelled the pope to make Change 
after Change, And at last have dashed his power to the Earth Assassinated his Councellors And 
Driven him from his Papal seat which has never before been shaken for the last fourteen hundred 
years And He has had to seek Protection by fleeing to other Nations. 


Page247 




While this is going on in foreign Countries let us turn our eyes for A moment to the Position of 
Blood Stained America, A Nation though Blessed Above All other Nations under Heaven yet she 
has of late been guilty of sheding the Blood of Apostles Prophets Patriarchs And Saints. She has 
suffered mob rule to take the place of Constitution law & order. 

And what position is she in at the Close of this year? Not ownly one of her states Ohio has 
disgraced herself by having A legislatur sit for weeks & spend their time in fighting for the 
mastery instead of organizing & doing the business of the people, but the leaders of the whole 
Nation itself at Washington are engendering] the spirit of party strife, hatred disunion & war 
meeting in seperate parties And laying plans for the dissolving of the union And the Anhilation 
of the American Government. And James Gordon Bennett of the New York Herald & other 
Editors After Prophesying month After month that their was no danger of disolving our union 
Are with all their prophesies recorded in their paper stareing them in the face, under the necessity 
of recording the Account of the parties ways And means made use of to accomplish & bring to 
pass the vary things they have been prophesying Against. And while the Senators & statesman of 
the Slave States meet in convention And resolve that if Slavery in the Distrect of Columbia is 
Abolished or Prohibited from New New Mexico or Calafomia that they will immediately 
dissolve the Union, lay taxes upon the shiping of the free States &c. 

At the same time Citizens And Statesmen of the free states meet in Convention And Resolve if 
these things are not done they in like manner will dissolve the Union. While these parties are 
growing more & more detennined, & further & wider Apart, still the public mind seems to be 
blinded As to the result of these resolutions, And are ignorant concerning the fruit which will be 
produced by the seed of there own sowing. 

Yes they have "eyes but see not, ears but hear not & hearts but do not understand" while the 
servent of God filled with inspiration, can behold the seene in its true light And knows well the 
result, with As much certainty As Noah, Lot, And Jesus, did each in their day while gazing upon 
the conduct of the Antedeluvians, Sodom & Gomorrow, or the inhabitants of Jerrusalem. And As 
the words of the Lord were fulfilled in the fonner case in like manner will they in the latter. 

During the past year Asiactic cholera one of the plagues of the last days has Also again 
commenced its march through the Earth slaying its tens of thousands, ft has now made its 
Appearance in England & Scotland And has just Arived in the United States is in New York 
New Orleans Mobeal Memphis And Cincinnati. The last report states about 100 daily in New 
Orleans. 

The signs of the gathering of the Jews has been vary prominant during the past [year]. The 
governments of the world have in some measure been exherted to favor that people. And while 1 
turn my eye towards Zion 1 can see the Lord is favoring her. 

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints has been organized with A first Presidency of 
three viz Brigham Young, Heber C Kimball, And Willard Richards who have gatherd to the 


Page248 




mountains of Israel in the valley of the Great Salt Lake. Took with them about 3,000 souls & 
some 8,000 Head of cattle of All kinds which now makes a population of about 7,000 saints in 
the City of the Great Salt Lake Great Bason North America. 

The Saints who were located near the Bay of San Francisco have found A vast amount of welth 
in mines such As Dimonds, Gold, Silver, quick silver, platina, copper, lead tin, zink Iron &c. 
These things have been found to such an extent that it is creating great excitement throughout the 
world esspecially in the United States And tens of thousands Are flocking to that land. 

Crime of Evry kind has Apparently increased 100 per ct throughout the United States And the 
cup of their iniquity is full And the hour of their Judgment is come. Calamity sorrow & Death 
has recieved its commission to visit this land. And the spirit whispers to me that eighteen 
hundred & forty nine will lay waste many thousands of the inhabitants of the Earth Esspecilly of 
this land by Cholera fire plage And Judgments. 


{ 


I Travelled 

I Attended with the Twelve 
I Held public meetings 
I Baptized 
I Confirmed 

I Ordained /Jarias Sandford 85/ 
President of the seventies 
Administered to sick Persons 
I Blessed 
I wrote 
I Recieved 


4,850 Miles 
12 Councils 
44 Meetings 
14 persons 
14 Persons 
1 Patriarch 
1 Seventy 
20 sickpersons 
10 Children 
60 Letters 
39 Letters 


} 


{ 


Wilford Woodruffs Journal for 1849 

* 


} 


January 

JAN 1st 1849 Monday This is the first day of 1849. We have traversed in our minds And 
recorded some things which has transpired during the Past year. What the present year will bring 
to pass time must determin But I have no doubt but the present year will Chronicle events of 


Page249 




equal importance with the past. As the Crices has Commenced with the past it will progress with 
the future untill all nations will be constrained to Acknowledg their is A God in Heaven whose 
hand is stretched out to perfonn A great and marvellous work in the Earth in the last days. 

The News this morning is in the Boston Daily times is that the Steemer Europa had arived 
Bringing News that Prince Louis Napoleon was Elected President of France. The Emperor of 
Austria had Abdicated his Throne in favor of his young Nephew. Dredful starvation in Ireland. 
Raging of the cholera in Europe And Esspecially in the south of America. It is raging at New 
Orleans in such a manner that the inhabitants are fleeing out all that Can get out. All business is 
stoping. Captains Mates Clerks & Hands Are dying of the Steem boats so that they have to stop 
running. I shall watch the movements of the signs of the times & record them daily. 

* I recieved A letter from Br Josiah G Hardy brought by the Hand of Wm Goodridge [who] 
wished me to visit a sister who was possesed with An evil spirit. So I Accompanied Him to West 
Newbury to see her. I spent the night with them. I found her in A low state. She was controled by 
An Evil spirit Altogether. I Administered to her by the laying on of hands. She was better for A 
time but she Afterwards gave way to the same spirit again. 40 m. 

2d I spent the day at Mr Courier. It was A severe winters day. The air was filled with snow. 

3d It is still vary severe wether. A large body of snow on the ground the air filled with snow. Mr 
Courier Carried me in A sleigh 6 m to Br Samuel Hardy. I Covered myself up in a Buffalo And I 
came nigh friezeing. Mr Courier froze his face badly, spent the night with Br Hardy. 6 m. 

4th It is still vary cold. I spent the day at Mansel Hardy And night at Samuel Hardy. We had A 
meeting. I Preached to the people. I had A dream At night. Was with the Twelve. L Wight 
present. W Richards spoke of me. 

5th I went to Elder Josiah Hardy. Spent the day And night. I Blessed his youngest Child. It is still 
vary Cold. 

6th I went to Mr BurBanks And spent the day And night. 

7th Sunday I met with the saints At Brother Hardy And preached to them. Administered unto 2 
that were sick. Mrs Milton Holmes Attended meeting in the Evening. Milton Holmes came to see 
me and spent several Hours with me. He walked to Mr Bur-banks with me. He is quite unhappy 
at the present time. He is now out of the church And has not taken Any active part in the work 
since his Father And Mother was cut off. I spent the night at Mr Bur-ba nk s. 

8th I rode to Haverhill in a sleigh. Called upon Abram Boyington. Took cars rode to Boston And 
spent the night once more at home with My family. I visited widow Hardy. She has 5 sons & 7 
Daughter 12 in all. They were all seated in A row in her room All at work closing shoes They 
have 4 cts per pair & close 70 pair daily. The 12 children were bom in 14 years All living. 40 m. 

9th [] I recieved 3 Letters from O. Spencer Dan Jones & W. I. Appleby And one from Robert 


Page250 




Wind-ley. All contained good news. Capt Dan Jones expresses his feelings in warm tenns 
concerning letters to him And says he feels incouraged to go ahead in the name of the Lord. Says 
he has raised up a Branch at Myrtha the Mother Branch of Britain. Over 800 members. And the 
sum total He had raised up in that Country was represented at the general conference of 
Manchester England Aug 14th 1848 amounting to 2,747 member. The whole representation at 
this general conference of England Scotland & wales was 17,902 members 350 branches, 929 
Elders 1,185 Priest, 608 Teachers 341 Deacons Added since May 31, 1846, 8,467. Elder Orson 
Pratt is now President of the Churches in the British Isles And herd the Above representation. 
Elder Jones Adds I have published in the welch language 48 different kinds And size of 
Pamphlets comprising more original matter than the Book of Mormon Doctrins & Covenants & 
voice of warning And have circulated one million Eight hundred thousand of Pages all of which 
preach night And Day to rich & Poor the Eternal truths of Monnonism And cheer the Honest 
Harted. Many learned And some vary noted men have Embraced the work. 

I have been Enabled to subdue my foes Many of the gifts of the spirit are manifest. One young 
man who had been Deef & Dumb 8 years was healed when coming up out of the waters of 
Baptism so he both herd and spake. Was ordained to the Priesthood And is now preaching the 
gospel with success. Capt Jones is Adding 150 per month. 

Elder Spencer writes many good things. His is much better. Says the work is rolling forth in 
much Power. I have been of late stiring up the saints to Pay their tithing. I have visited many of 
the conferences for this purpose. I feel incouraged to Believe I shall gather A good sum for the 
Temple. Their Are 4 persons expecting to come in Possession of large sums of money before I go 
to America. From them I expect to get several thousand pounds As tithing to gladden the hearts 
of the saints in the valley. 

The Addition to the Churches continue to be great. The Emigration falls much short of the 
increase. Their may be 1,500 saints Emigrate this season but what is that Among so many? O 
Pratt thinks it would take 300 ships to carry the british saints at the present time. The hopes of the 
wicked Are perishing while looking for better times And individuals And Nations both feel like 
grasping all they can get hold of Either by fair or foul means. 

The Papel Crown has At length fallen. It looks As though the Beastly power of Mobocracy 
spoken of in Revelations was likely to destroy the dominion of the Mother of Abominations 
spedily. The Emperor of Austria has Abdicated And the King of Prussia has Called A 
Constitutional government But the Saints wax vary bold And utter their testimony with as much 
Assurance in the Holy Ghost. It is truly delightful to see them pushing sectarian churches And 
Demolishing human creeds As so much hay & Stubble. The week are becoming strong And the 
Gentiles marvel. 

You would be Asstonished to see the issue of Books Stars And tracts from the Star office evry 
fortnight. The issue of Stars has doubled since I took Charge in 47 And All other works in Equal 
ratio. The tide of truth Rolls irrisitably through the land. 


Page25 1 




There will soon be some vary Efficient Preachers in the French Nation from those parts. We Also 
have A HINDU in this Country that speaks more than A dozen different languages Arabic &c &c 
who is preparing to go to Asia to Preach the gospel soon. 

Elder Levi Richards & wife Arived in England safe. I feel thankful to my heavenly Father. I 
recieve in the foregoing letters And for his blessings to his saints And his wonderful works 
among the Children of men. 

I Also recieved Ney York Weekly Herald which contained A copy of the Calafornia land Bill 
Also the following before the House of Congress: A Government for the Monnons. Mr Rockwell 
from Massachusetts from the Committee on Territories to whom had been refered A resolution 
instructing them to inquire into the expediancy of reporting a Bill to Esstablish a Territorial 
Government for the Mormons residing At the Salt Lake in California were on motion discharged 
from the further Consideration of the subject. Other Papers gave An Account of the spread of the 
Cholera in the south. 

10th [] } I recieved 3 letters one from sister Enion Elias W Williams And Joseph Grover. I spent 
the Afternoon at Br A. Badlam. A. P. Rockwood spent the Evening with us. I wrote 3 letter to 
Mrs Foss, Jacob Gibson, & Robert Windley. 

1 1th The Boston Times to day says the Cholera is raging at wheeling Cincinnati, Louisville, 
Memphis And Vicksburg. 

A Letter from the Camp of Israel 400 miles from winter Quarters July 10th 1848 published in the 
Star of Oct 15 1848 says that President Brigham Young & Heber C Kimball Company which 
they led to the valley of the Salt Lake Consisted of 623 waggons, 1,891 souls 131 Horses, 44 
Mules, 2,012 Oxen 983 Cows 334 Loose cattle, 654 Sheep 237 Pigs, 904 Chickens, 54 Cats, 134 
Dogs, 3 goats, 10 geese, 5 Bee Hives 1 1 Doves, 1 Squirrel, 5 Ducks. 

It is An Exceding Cold day. While At Bradford I exhamined Smiths Illustrated Asstronomy. I 
like it for schools. Burnetts Beautiful Original Model of Ancient Jerrusalem As it stood in the 
days of our Redeemers All Carved out of wood is now being Exhibited through America And 
Attracting the Attention of many as the greatest work of Art Exhibited in the Last days. I wrote A 
letter to Brother } Thomas Cartwright And made extracts from Letters. 

12th I recieved the NY weekly Herald Containing the doings of Congress on Calafornia & 
Mexico but nothing of importance to record. 

13 th * I done up A Bundle of Papers of 100 or more & } sent to President Brigham Young put 
into A Box of Br A. P. Rockwood which he will take charge of. I sent in the same bundle several 
Papers to W. Richards Aphek Woodruff John Benbow A. O Smoot Z Pulsipher & others. I Also 
wrote A letter to President B. Young concerning the Papers. 

14th Sunday I was quite unwell through the day. Kept my house. The saints had no meeting in 


Page252 




Boston. 


15th I went to Boston to Reading & back again. 25 m. 

16th Elder A. P. Rockwood read A Letter to me directed to Br Joseph Young containing A list of 
Charges against Br Allexander Badlam which I consid-erd And Believed them to be fals in both 
spirit & letter in toro got up through Private Peak A Prejudice Against Br Badlam. I told Br 
Rockwood in Substance the same And Pointed out to Br Rockwood whare I Believed it was 
false. He said He would read it to Br Badlam Before He sent it. 

} 17th [] I recieved two letters from Br Thomas Cartwright of New York And wrote two letters 
one to W. I. Appleby & one to Joseph Henderson of Salem. Elders Rockwood And Badlam were 
At my house this day And Br Rockwood read to me And Br Badlam the letter which He read to 
me yesterday containing Charges against Br Badlam. He denyed the Charges in toto. Said they 
were fals & not true And Pointed out wharein. Br Rockwood herd the explaination And was 
Convinced He was wrong that it was not wisdom to send such A document And He said He 
would leave out those item out of the letter. 

18th Was quite unwell with the teeth Ake. 

19th Was Also unwell to day. Brs A. P. Rockwood & A Badlam Called At my house this day 
And settelled their Affairs in A friendly manner. Brother Rockwood Appeared satisfyed that the 
Accusations which He brought against Br Badlam were from A fals representation And not in 
truth And they parted in friendship. 

20th Brother A. P. Rockwood left for the west to day. I was quite unwell yet in company with Br 
Badlam I rode to Salem & spent the night with Br Joseph Henderson 29 Union Street. I was vary 
sick at night with teeth Ake cold And Ague in the face. 

Did not sleep at All during the night so I had A plenty of time for meditation And among the 
subjects before me 1 reflected upon A Mission that one of the Presidents of the Seventies 
Presented to the Eastern Branches while on his mission East to collect funds for building A 
Seventies Hall in the valley. Why was the mission not signed by President Brigham Young if it 
was right for such A mission to be taken, or was it got up to Assist the individual in Person more 
than to build the Seventies Hall? I think it right And safe to present All missions And Business of 
importance Before the President of the Church when they can be got at. 20 miles 

21st Sunday I was still sick through the day my face badly swollen yet I spoke 11/2 hours to A 
small company of the Saints And spent the night with some English Brethren. But it was Another 
severe night of Paine And affliction. 1 did not sleep at all. 1 Arose Early my face so swollen that I 
could scarcely see out of my Eyes. I had not eaten but little since 1 left home. I took the first train 
of cars with Br Badlam 

22 ? And rode to Boston And Arived home sick And weary. Mrs Woodruff commenced 
doctering me. I took an Emetic of strong thoroughwert or Boneset tea. I found myself very 


Page253 




Bilious And the tea done me much good. Sister Sarah B Foss & Br Ilus F Carter Called upon me 
to day. Br Ilus went on to New York. Sister Foss stayed with us. I recieved one letter * from Br 
Henderson. 

Almon W. Babbit called upon me And spent the evening And conversed upon A variety of 
subjects. He had been to Washington And spent A length of time And Had Called to see me And 
wished me to go to Washington with him to get An introduction to the members of Congress in 
case the Church would wish me to do any business there another year. 

He said He had been labouring while there to so Arange the Territorial Bills As to have A 
Territorial government Esstablished in the Great Salt Lake Country Great Bason North America 
embracing about 300 miles of Territory in length Called the Utah Territory. He thought it would 
be necessary in order to get it Accomplished for the inhabitants of the Salt Lake valley to 
organize A state Government with A Govonor And All repuisite officers And then let them be 
Presented to the general government for reception. He said He thought it better for the saints to 
Have A State Government of their own than to be connected with New Mexico or that Portion of 
Calafomia lying west of the Mountains & then have to be Governed by some Petty officers sent 
from those parts. 

He Said He had got A Post Office Esstablished at the Salt Lake Valley And Elder Haywood 
Appointed Post Master. He had Also got A Post Office Esstab-lished At Garden Grove & Mount 
Pisgah. 

He said He was vary familiar with the members from Ioway & Illinois And that Thomas Benton 
of Mo came to him just before he left & shook hands with him in A vary familiar manner. He 
Also read me the printed Correspondence between him And Elder O Hyde Comprising their 
difficulties And After Hearing all of his subjects through Embracing his whole Course 
Expectation of office in the general Surveyorship of that Country & in the Territorial & State 
Government &c &c I come to the following conclusion in my meditations: 

That He was at work upon his own hook, that he was not Counciled by the Presidency of the 
Church to Engage in this Government matter, And considering the course the Government had 
taken towards us As A People I felt no disposition as An individual to Petition them for Any 
thing, But let them take whatever course they felt disposed And trust ourselves And Affairs in the 
Hands of the God of Israel. Yet whatever Course the Combined Council & wisdom of the Church 
thought proper to persue in that Channel I would throw my labour And influence. But As their is 
danger of mens trying to perform more than they are sent to do, And whareas I was sent to 
Preside over the Eastern Churches Preach the gospel to them & gather out as many of them As I 
Could to Zion, Therefore Resolved that my Present state of Health, Duty, calling, inclination And 
the spirit within me will not pennit me to leave the business I was sent to do And go to 
Washington to form An acpuaintance & gain influence with wicked & corrupt men to lay A plan 
to assist in governing the saints in the Valley for with the grace of God I believe they are Able to 
govern themselves. Yet when Called upon to go to Washington By the Presidency I [am] on hand. 


Page254 




23d I was sick through the day. Br Cory & Another Brother Called to see me. He had made 
Arangements to [go] on board of a ship & start in few days for the gold diggins. He goes He says 
to get gold as He is A poor man to move his family to Zion. He has Asked no Council from me 
upon the subject but goes upon his own hook. 

24th } } [] I recieved three letters from G. A. Smith & E. T. Benson, Dominicas Carter, from the 
Bluffs And two from the valley one from A. O. Smoot. Br Smoot Gives me an account of the 
Affairs in the valley since his Arival there. He sayes the organization of the Presidency was 
recieved at the valley And All business attended to that was necessary. 

He spoke of Father Woodruff situation since He had been there, his poor health &c. He said 
James Bevin had acted the part of any thing but that of A Gentleman towards my Father had 
treated him ill would not give up my house to Br John Benbow According to my desire And done 
wrong in many things. He says the Crickets eat up most of my Fathers grain that He put in &c 
&c. 

G A Smith & E T Benson writes they had organized 50 Branches of the Church at council Bluffs 
& all doing well. Most of the soldiers that went into the Army had arived home to their families 
And A feast was made for those who were at the Bluffs. 

They had built A New Tabernacle on Pigeon in Potta-watamie Co. Br Egan And 12 others arived 
at the Bluffs on the 7th Dec. Eeft the valley on the 13th October. President Young Arived in the 
valley on the 20th September And H. C. Kimball on the 24th sept. The following is the 
organization of the church at the Valley: 

Brigham Young President over the whole Church. Heber C Kimball And Willard Richards his 
Councel-lors. John Smith is Patriarch over the whole Church, Charles C Rich is President in the 
valley. John Young And Erastus Snow are his councellors. 

Arangments were making for inclosing An Additional field of 1,100 Acres. 860 men had taken 
shares in it vareing from 5 to 10 Acres the smallest lots being near the city to accomodate 
mechanicks. All the buildings composing the fort were to be moved onto city lots except the 
square inclosed by the Pioneers. The Indians Are friendly And it is considerd safe to settle on 
farms. 

A new city has been laid out 10 miles north of the Temple Block Another About 10 miles South. 
All the lots surveyed had been taken up & An Addition had been made running to the mountains 
on the East side. The Pioneer claims Are respected so we shall find A Place when we go there. 

Elder Addison Pratt had Arived safe to the valley in good health And spirits. A company of 
Saints that went on the Brooklin were in route for the valley. Willard Richards & Amasa Lyman 
were within 3 days drive of the valley when the Express left. Dr Richards was driving his own 
team. 


Page255 




Elder Kimball writes that they raised spuashes in the valley from 63 to 84 lbs & turnips 8 1/2 lbs. 
P P Pratt made A vegitable dinner for the Presidency when they arived. Among the Bill of fare 
were the following Bill of items: Green Com, Green Peas, green Beans, Cucumbers, beets, 
Parsnips, carrots, onions, Potatoes, turnips, squash Pumpkins pies cabbage, Mush mellons, water 
mellons, cantelopes, com Bread wheat Bread, com stalk Molasses And Rost Beef &c &c. 

G A Smith says that it is vary hard winter so far at the Bluffs. He further Adds that Walker the 
Famous Utah Chief visited the saints in the valley with his band of Riflemen. He said Always 
wished to live in peace with our people. He wanted his children to grow up with ours As 
Brothers that his People should not steal from our People. If any of them did let him know it And 
He would Punish them And stop it. The Brethren told him they did not want his men to steal 
from the Calafomians for we were at peace with them. Walker replyed my men <[-]> hate the 
Spanyards And will steal from them And I cannot help it. 

Brothers Daniel Browett, Allen And Cox were all killed by A Band of Diggers in the Calafomia 
Mountains As they were exploring A new Pass through the mountains. They were surrounded 
when Asleep And killed with stones. $100 worth of gold dust was found on the ground which 
belonged to Brother Allen. Their bodies were striped of their Clothing And then buried by the 
Indians. This occurd 40 miles from the settlements on the Sacramento. Their bodies were found 
by A company who followed them. The Above named Brethren I Baptized in Herefordshire soon 
After I commenced Preaching at Br John Benbows. Br Browett Esspecially has been A valiant 
tme barred Latter Day Saint And I know nothing to the contrary of the others They went into the 
Army As Soldiers And have died As marters. 

Brother D Carter writes that During the Conference at the valley that the ordeal was Passed upon 
Lyman Wight to retain his standing but they had not recieved his Pamphlet nor did not know that 
the Church had withdrawn fellowship from him at the Bluffs. He also says that fellowship is 
withdrawn from Almond W. Babbit for Stating or Confirming the statement to the world that 
Orson Hyde had sold the mormon votes for A Printing Press. President Young has Advised the 
Twelve At the Bluffs to come on without bringing Any Provisions with them ownly to last them 
there but Bring groceries Iron, steel, glass seeds of all kinds Apples Peaches, Pares Ches-nuts & 
Kocas &c. 

I recieved A small letter [] Also from the valley speaking of some papers I sent Br Bullock. 
President Young thought [they] had better remain as they were for the present. I wrote one letter 
to day to James Burgess. 

} 25th [] ^ f I Recieved 1 letter from Josiah G Hardy & wrote two to I F Carter And A. W. Babbit 
Esqr. I dug & pulled out two of my worst teeth I had with twine And A Jack knife. 

26th [] I recieved A letter from Dwight Eveleth of Taunton. My health is some better than it has 
been. Br Bird And wife spent the evening with us. 


Page256 




27th I recieved the New York Herald weekly of 27th. It is full of the Calafomia gold fever. It 
seems as though All the world was running stark mad to go to the gold mines of Calafornia on 
the Sacramento. Hundreds of ships And tens of thousand of men are preparing to go there. Elder 
Allexander Badlam has purchased goods & necessaries And is now Preparing to go there also on 
Board of the Corsiar via Panama As his brother in Law Samuel Brannan is out there He thinks 
He will do well. 

28th Sunday I preached to the Saints And the world at Br Birds on [ ]. 

29th } [] I wrote 3 letters to Dominicas Carter James Burgess And Tittle [ Little ] & Hardy. I 
recieved three Letters from Capt Joseph Russell & Charles Russell And James Burgess. I sent $2 
[in] Br Carters Letter for O Hyde to send the Paper to Job Parkhurst. 

30th I went to Boston And bought A Cooking stove. Paid $12. 

3 1st ^ I wrote two letters one to Samuel Brannan & * one to James Fergeson to send By the hand 
of A. Badlam who is About to start for the bay of San Francisco. I Also wrot Elder Allexander B. 
two recommends one to Samuel Brannan, And one to B. Young And Council in Zion. I Also 
wrote Br Badlam A letter of Memorandom making knows my wishes of him while He is gone. I 
Also sent S Brannan 5 Papers by Br Badlam. 

February 

Feb 1st I arose early in the morning. Accompanied Elder Badlam to the ship Corsiar whare He 
takes passage to Panama And goes on to the Bay of San Francisco to visit his Brother in Law 
Samuel Brannan to try to get some gold to meet his liabilities & to remove his family to the 
gathering place of the Saints. He has Acted in concert with the Presidency of the Church for years 
past And has stretched out his hand so liberally to try to Assist in rolling on the general Cause of 
Zion Untill He became involvd several Hundred dollars in dept. And men of the world now stept 
fourth And offered to Advance money to pay his depts And support his family if he would 
accompany some of their sons young [sic] who were going to the Bay of San Francisco to try to 
get gold at the mines this being the ownly opening which He could see to pay his depts He 
considerd it an omin that the hand of the Lord was in therefore he Accepted it. This is the cause 
of his going. 

It snowed hard to day And the ship did not go out. There were 104 passengers on board. They 
sent most of their provisions around cape Horn on board of the Pharsailia. Br Badlam Came 
home And spent the night. He And Br Wm Page spent the night at my house untill 10 oclok & 
went home. I recieved two letters [] :]■ one from Wm Low one from A. W. Babbitt. I wrote two 
letter one to Wm Low one to Eldridge. 

2d } [] I wrote A long letter to Freedom & Shuah Moulton. I Recieved the 24 No of vol X of the 
Millennial Star of Dec 15th. It was truly an interesting paper. It Contained interesting letters from 
the valley of the Salt Lake. The following is an Extract from A letter written by P. P. Pratt in 


Page257 




August of 1848: 


"We are blessed in gardens, in wheat, in Com And in all things I have set my hands unto. I have 
raised some sixty bushels of good wheat without Irrigations A few bushels of rye & oats, And my 
com in the field looks as well as any corn I ever saw in the states. The wheat Crop exceeds all 
expectation. Oats do better than in the States say 60 bushels to one sowing on sod ground. Every 
kind of vegetable suited to the northern latitudes does well. Levi Hancock sowed Eleven pounds 
wait of calafomia wheat on the 14th April And reaped twenty two bushels the latter part of July. 
He sowed half a bushel of Common English wheat on An Acre And A half And reaped upwards 
of twenty bushels. One grain of seven eared wheat produced seventy two ears. Barley that was 
sown ripened And was reaped And Carried off. The land then was irrigated And produced from 
the roots A fresh crop four times the quantity of the first Crop. Oats that were sown produced a 
good crop And cleared. The roots again sprung up And produced Another beautiful crop. Three 
Crops of Peas ripened on the same spot of ground And the peas of the crop raised used for seed. 
Beet seed planted this spring produced beets As thick as A mans leg And go to seed And yield A 
large quantity. Cabbage seed planted this spring produces seed Again." And any other good 
things were said. 

Well may the Saints Praise the Lord And Shout Hosannah for He has led his People through the 
wilderness deliverd them from his Enemies And given them A goodly land that brings forth in its 
strength. Praise Ye the Lord all his Saints for his loving kindness unto us. 

3d I spent the day at home writing. 

4th Sunday I had A meeting in the fore part of the day with my family. ? My wife And children 
come to gether once Aweek. We sing And Pray And I teach them the things of the kingdom of 
God And I break bread And partake of the sacrament with them. 

My ownly Son living was baptized when he was Eight years old. He is now most nine year of 
Age. He is A good youth And seems to be under the influence of the spirit of the Lord. He obeys 
his Parents in all things. I ordained him this day to the office of A Priest to officiate in that office 
in his Fathers houshold untill He shall Arive At A suitable Age to officiate in the Church. When I 
Am abroad away from my family Attending to the Affairs of the Church Phebe W. Woodruff my 
wife & Mother of my children calls them together And teaches & instructs them to Pray And to 
understand the principles of faith And the gospel. And Wilford Woodruff Jr. Now ordained A 
Priest can bless the bread And wine And Administer it to the family who Are members of the 
Church from time to time inasmuch As they have not A chance to Attend meeting in Any branch 
of the church. 

I met with the boston branch of the Church at Br E. F. Bird. As Brother Badlam the Presiding 
Elder had left for Calafornia I thought it wisdom to Appoint Another Presiding Elder After 
speaking to them An hour, Elder Stephen H Pierce was Appointed Presiding Elder over the 
Boston Branch, And Silas P. Barnes And E. F. Bird were Appointed his Councillers. 


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Wilford was quite sick during the night. We Administered to him by the laying on of hands And 
He was better. 

5th We had A hard snow storm through the day. Wilford was quite feeble through the day and 
night. 

6th Wilford was vary sick through the day And at night. His symtoms were vary much like the 
Cholera. His symtoms of cramping vomiting & c Appeared dangerous. We Administered to him 
by the laying on of hands. We also steemed him And gave him herb teas. His cramping stoped 
yet he Complained of great pain in his bowels, which commenced swelling & Appeared As 
though inflammation was setting in. We gave pulverized charcoal in his teas to stop infla-mation 
which has great effect in such cases. We each bowed before the Lord & Called upon his name 
And Administered to him according to the order of the Priesthood And from that hour he began 
to recover & slept comfortably the latter part of the night. 

7th Wilford Appears quite comfortable to day. His sickness seems to have turned And A prospect 
of his soon recovering for which I feel thankful to my heavenly Father. 

I recieved A visit from Mr Wm B. Shedd No 3 Franklin street Charlestown Mass. He was A 
Brother to the Brother Shedd who was poisoned At the city of the great salt Lake by Eating wild 
Parsnip. He died in few moments After Eating it. Mr Shedd wished to send out seeds to Adorn 
the field with shrubery & fruit that his brother occupied And He recommended that trees be 
planted in A row through the centre of the street. We have good slaying through the streets to 
day. 

8th } I wrote two letters to day one to Dwight Eveleth the other to Horace Humphry or John Jay 
of crookers neck of cape cod requesting infonnation concerning the Church in that region. I 
recieved A letter from Little & Hardy And A small Box [] f of groceries. I wrote them A long 
letter And made An extract from P P Pratt's letter at the valley. Sister Lydia Hartford called for 
some Council And spent the night. 

9th I spent the day at home writing. I re-cieved the New York weekly Harald. It was occupied 
with the Calafomia gold fever And Excitement, sailing of ships to the gold digings list of 
passengers &c And peaces Headed Proposed Disolution of the Union the Slavery And Aboliton 
question still rages through the Country. 

10th } I wrote A Letter to Br Wm Sweat. During the evening Mr Ezra Carter jr. & Lady called to 
spend the Sabbath with us. It was the first time they ever visited us. We spent the evening vary 
agreeable. I conversed with them upon A great variety of subjects relating to Mormonism. 

A 

1 1th Sunday In Company with my Brother & Sister in Law Ezra Carter jr. & Sarah B. Foss I met 
with the Saints at Br Birds And I preached to them more than one hour from the [ ] ch of Heb. 


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I had freedom in speaking. It was the first time that Ezra Carter Jr ever attended A Mormon 
meeting. His prejudice which has been strong against the Latter Day Saints was perfectly broaken 
down to day. He expressed his entire satisfaction at what he herd. And I find the prejudice of 
many men are breaking down at the presant time throughout the world. 

12th Mr Carter And Lady & sister Loss left us to day. I spent the day in writing. 

13 th } [] I wrote A letter to Br David E Monroe Portsmouth RI. I recieved the Star of Nov 15 th 
which was as usual interesting. I extract the following: (Just arived from the Invisible world 
Marlon Pratt— a large fat noble boy. He was introduced into this world on the morning of the 13 
October AD. 1848. He has taken up his residence in a tabernacle of flesh & bones & may be seen 
at 15 Wilton street Liverpool. He brings no news from his brother & Sister spirits whom He left 
in his native world but if we were to Judge from the following letter, the spirit of Emigration 
must be greatly on the increase.) ED. "Sister White wife of Br Eli White was safely deliverd on 
the 17 inst of three Children two sons & a daughter All of whom with the mother are doing well." 

* * * 14th I spent the day writing. A Shower of worms has appeared on the top of the snow alive 
& one inch long. 

Feb 15th 1849 } {To President Young And Council 2 sheets on Territorial Bills And Government 
1 sheet To Historian 1 sheet.} 

I wrote A letter to President Young And Council Containing two full sheets of fools Cap writing 
in my Journal Hand giving an account of my leaving Council Bluffs my meetings at Mount 
Pisgah & Garden Grove, My providential delivery from Death, visit at the Temple & Nauvoo 
meeting at St Louis, Death [of] our child on the journey, Arival at Boston, Burning of Albany, 
Stay of my family in Maine & return to Cambridgeport my travels Among the Churches. 
Represented the branches as 808, the capacity of the Saints to gather the Course I have persued in 
teaching, the report of the Elders that the world have no interest in hearing the gospel in this land, 
the No we have baptized the cause why this people are Hardened And do not hear, interview with 
capt Joseph Russel, price of his property, & help &c. I spoke lengthy of Elder A Badlams Case. 
Gave cause for his going to Calafomia. Spoke of the benefits of going to the valley instead of the 
Sacramento. I rejoiced in the News from the valley & of the progress of the work in Europe. 
Spoke of Elder Barnes going to Zion, Little & Hardy traiding Appleby sickness. Requested 
letters, Council, Prayers &c &c. 

I wrote Another letter to President Young & Council. Filled A sheet of letter paper. Spoke upon 
the visit of A. W. Babbitt his doings in Washington. He wished me to go there, the post offices at 
Garden Grove Pisgah Salt Lake valley &c. Spoke upon the various bills concerning that country 
the Cause of my not going to Washington; my views on goverment of that Country T. H. Benton 
course & views on Calafomia, Babbitt carrying the Mail, His future intentions, difficulties 
between him & O Hyde. Spoke of the visit of Mr Shed, Wm. Smith Appearance & teaching, gold 
fever excitement, 200 ships gone there, End of the Excitement be a tale for the Recorder, 

Railroad discussed via Pannama, Mexico, Santife, Salt Lake, Oregon &c. 


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I am Called upon for infonnation to go by land to gold digings via Salt Lake. I oppose the route. 
Do not think the saints would wish it. Would it not be well for soldiers to plant some claims in 
the salt Lake valley to secure it against land specula-ters? I Closed this letter with the following 
Notice to the inhabitants of the salt Lake valley: 

As the inhabitants of Boston Are about preparing A light train of Cars Engins Baloons &c to 
Navigate the air to carry passengers And goods to the gold digings Should they come over the 
valley And burst there boiler & run off the track And it should rain hot water, boilers engins, 

Cars Baloons, sails, dry goods & men, Be not alarmed as it will ownly be a shower of the march 
of intellect internal improvement ingenuity, and yankee Notions. 

I Also filled A sheet of letter paper to the Historian of the church on the signs of the times. I 
spoke of forwarding the Herald to him, made An extract from my Journal concerning the leading 
features of the signs of the times of 1848. Spoke of the revolutions of France, Jermany Prusia, 
Austria Russia, the fall of the papal crown & power, the restoration of the Jews, opening the way 
for the spread of the gospel, progress of the work in the British Isles, the situation of the 
American Government, foundation for dissolving the Union, the blindness of the people And 
increase of Crime. I closed by making An address concerning Zion in the following words: 

I cannot close my record upon the signs of the times of 1848 without turning my eye towards 
Zion, yes Zion, which is not now merely a phantom of the brain or a name, but actually a living 
thing. Truly she is yet but a babe just bom. Yet she has A Tabernacle, the Mountains of Israel. 
Her bed is in the chambers of the rocks, Her garden one of the rich valleys of Ephraim. She 
speaks and Her voice is as the voice of God. She has A spirit which bums like flames of fire. She 
has power, And has started A little stone rolling from the mountain her habitation, which 
increases as it goes: It is causing the Earth to quake & tremble. Take care ye Nations. It will grind 
you to dust. She has messengers who go & come at her bidding, one of them Can Chase A 
thousand And two put ten thousand to flight. They Command the Element & they obey them. She 
has An Ensign for the Nations to flee to. She has A law which will soon govern the Earth. She is 
born in the generation that David had A view of. O Praise the LORD. I am a witness that mine 
eyes have beheld her. She has Keys to open & no man can shut, And shut And no man can open. 
Her power is from Heaven whare she hath Noble senators who plead her Cause both day & night. 

This is the Zion I seek After. This is the Zion I speak of. Her Church is the church of Jesus Christ 
of Latter Day Saints. Her City was sought in 1847 And the Lord has favored her from that time. 
And During the year 1848 the Church has been organized with A first Presidency of three 
persons viz Brigham Young, Heber C. Kimball & Willard Richards, who have gatherd to the 
mountains of Israel, in the valley of the Great Salt lake, Great Basin North America, And taken 
with them some three thousand Souls with their flocks & Herds which makes A population of 
about seven thousand souls in the City of the Great Salt Lake. The Lord has also blest their land 
which has brought forth in abundance. 

And while the Lord has been multiplying blessing upon Zion in her quiete Habitation Her 


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messengers have been crying aloud to the Nations of the Earth & the Isles of the sea preaching 
the gospel unto them And uttering their testimony in the power of God and the gift of the Holy 
Ghost untill they have gatherd their thousands together untill one of the Twelve Apostles of the 
Lamb (Orson Pratt) Estimates that it will take three hundred ships to remove the saints from the 
British Isles Alone to Zion. 

The Saints who were gathered] into the valley of the Sacramento have discoverd such vast 
mines of gold silver copper & other precious ores that the report of it is creating great excitement 
throughout the world Esspecially in the United States untill tens of thousands are rushing to the 
gold regions to try to obtain the precious mettal. 

And as the hand of God has been so visible in all the signs of 1848 May He continue his work 
through 1849 and all following years untill His ann shall be made bare in the eyes of all Nations 
untill Zion shall arive to her full strength of Manhood. For Brass may she have gold for Iron 
silver for wood Brass for stones Iron. May her execters & peace officers be righteous men. May 
her Nobles be of Ephraim And her Govournor procede out of the midst of Him. May all of her 
Messengers be armed with righteousness in the power of God in great glory. May all of the 
Nations of the Earth fear & tremble because of her law. May the wicked find her sons terrible 
when they go to battle against her & not have power to stand before them. May her dwelling 
places be distinguished by a pillar of fire by night & cloud by day & in fine may she arise & 
shine forth And spread herself abroad with all that perfection of beauty power & glory which has 
ever been spoken concerning her Even to the full Expectation of God Angels & Men. 

Wilford Woodruff 

16th [] I recieved A letter from Wm. Low. Spent the day writing. 

17th I visited Boston And obtained the New York weekly Herald. It was full of news on 
calafornia, gold digings, &c. Large Extracts from the Calafor-nia Star. Advertisment of Samuel 
Brannan & Wm Stout merchantmen took gold at $16 per oz. Murders were spoken of And 
Exhertion to fonn A government. 

18th Sunday I met with the Saints at Br Birds And had A good meeting. I preached upon Zion. 
Read 60 Chapter of Isaiah. I read A letter sent to Br Barnes from G A Smith & E. T Benson. 
They wished him to send them $1,000 dollars to help them away in the spring. Said there was A 
Conspiracy getting up to take their lives And Elder Hydes & wished to move with their families 
in the spring, During the Evening I had A lengthy conversation with Mr Andrew Delin A 
Jentleman from Switzerland. He had been in this Country two years. Spoke considerable English. 
I preachd the gospel to him. He seemed to believed it & thought He would embrace it. 

19 □ I recieved A letter from Br Appleby. I wrote 4 letters :)■ :)■ to the following persons: Little & 
Hardy, Josiah G Hardy Jonas Livingston, & Jeremiah Browen. 

20th :)■ I wrote 3 letters to day to Charles Russell, David A Bishop Augustus B. Pevey. 


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2 1st ^ I wrote 1 letter to Merrill C Pevey Lowell & one to W I Appleby. I went through Boston 
with Calvin Foss to get him A Chance in some organization to go to the Calafomia gold Mines. 
We went on board of the Sea Eagle & Bark Emma Isidora. The last I prefered. 

22d I went through Boston to day again with Calvin Foss to get him A chance in some company. 
We finally fixed our mind upon the Bay State Company who have bought the ship Arcarcs 550 
ton. 

} I have written to day to G. A. Smith & E T Benson in Answer to their letter. Spoke of Br 
Barnes, Badlam & capt Joseph Russell &c. 

23d I went with Calvin I Foss to Boston And assisted him to secure his passage ticket & share in 
the Bay State and calafomia & Trading & Mining company who go to Calafornia on Board of the 
Ship Arcatos 559 tons. The company consist of 140, each share to cost $350, which gives An 
equal right to the Ship And all its Contents And to all the income after they get there. 

I recieved two letters one from W. I. Appleby } [] And one from Thomas F Eldridge. I wrote one 
letter to Ezra Carter jr. Br Appleby inform me that Sidney Roberts is an imposture & has 
collected $70 of the New Haven Branch &c. 

24th [] I recieved A letter from A W Babbitt. Says he has got the carrying of the Mail from 
Council Bluffs to the Salt Lake Valley 6 times in A year. I recieved the New York Herald of 
24th. Nothing vary important. 

25th Sunday I met with the Saints And had a good meeting; Rhoda And Phebe Foss was present, 
the first time they have had the privilege of Attending meetings with the saints for A number of 
years. 

26th { f [] } I wrote A letter to President Young & Council concerning introducing school Books 
into the valley. I sent them 13 School Books as A present from Sanborn & Carter of Portland 
Maine for their exhamination. I expressed my feelings upon the subject. 1 Also recieved A letter 
from Br Wm. Maxfield of wilmot Creek N.B. 

27th [] I recieved one letter from Ezra Carter Jr containing two drafts both amounting to $335 to 
pay in Boston for Calvin Foss. 1 Also recieved A letter from Walker Lewis of Lowell. I wrote } 
two letters one to Wm [I/H?] Smith of Halifax & one to W 1 Appleby. I recieved one Letter from 
Augustus B. Pevey. 

28th 'T I recieved A letter from Josiah G. Hardy of Bradford infonning me of the Death of Father 
Nathaniel Holmes who Died Suddenly on the 20th And was buried on the 23d of Feb 1849 Aged 
[ ] years. He had been in the Church some 15 years And out of it for the last year of his life. 

Died A Strangite. I Also recieved A Liverpool Millennial Star containing Orson Spencers 
farewell Address which was truly interesting. Also A good letter from Prst Willard Richards & 
other things of interest. 


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I wrote two letters one to Carlin } I Foss of Saco & one to Josiah G. Hardy. I went to Boston And 
settelled Calvin I. Foss fare in the B.S. C.T.M. Company who were going to start on the 10th 
March. I Paid $300 for him which was sent me By E. Carter jr. of Portland, Me. I called At 166 
Hanover street to see Mrs Rogers, Rhoda & Phebe Ross. They had gone to they Boarding place 
3d Bennett Avenue Bennett Street. I returned home went to the post office And Had An 
interview with J.P. Aldin. His Sister Married David Petigrew. I spent the Evening At Br Birds 
reading the Star & conversing with Mr Hugh McCully & Andrew Delin. I left them about upon 
the point of Being Batpized. 


March 

{March 1st 1849} This is my Birth Day Also the first day of the Spring of 1849. 1 am 42 years 
old this day. How such figures look to A man while Counting up his years, As the Lord has 
preserved me through another year of my life, I Pray my Heavenly Father to keep me safe 
through the year which I am no Entering. O God the Eternal Father I ask the in the Name of thy 
Son Jesus Christ, & by virtue of the Holy Priesthood to preserve me blameless through this year 
of my life which I am now Entering. Keep me from evry temptation, from Entangling my feet 
with sin. Let the Holy Ghost be my Constant Companion & teach me my duty in all things. Give 
me favor in thy sight O Lord & in the sight of thy Son Jesus Christ, in the sight of Angels And in 
the sight of All Prophets, Apostles, Patriarchs, & Saints both in Heaven, & on Earth. Preserve my 
wife & Children in safety & all appertaining unto me. Bless thy Servant Brigham His Council, 
the Twelve, Seventies High Priest, with all the Saints of the Most High God in all the Earth. 

Bless the Seed of Abraham, And gather them Home. Favor Zion, O Lord, Break in peaces every 
weapon formed against her. I Ask all these Blessings with all others which thou seest I need in 
the Name of Jesus Christ & by virtue of the Holy Priesthood Amen. 

I arose early while all nature was wraped in sleep And Commenced writing in my Journal. I Also 
wrote A letter to Orson Pratt of Liverpool & one to Leonard Hardy. I recieved :{■ [] A letter from L 
Hardy. I recieved A visit from Br Whipple, Br Haven, Br Boynton. I had A plesant visit with 
them. Br Boynton had with him A model of A machine which he Had invented for cutting out 
soles for making shoes which is A vary ingenious peace of work. Is getting A pattern for it. 

2d [] I recieved A letter from Br Wm. Sweat And filled another sheet to Orson Pratt. I spoke of 
my birth day, gave him all the News I had from the valley, my interview with Br Whipple, with 
Br Babbitt made An extract Concerning him And the Government from my Journals. Also made 
An extract from my address to the Historian concerning Zion &c & c. The following is an Extract 
of my letter to him: 

? Cambridgeport March 1st 1849 

Elder Pratt Beloved Brother, As this is my birth day Also the first day of spring, my mind is led 
this morning more than usual to reflect upon the signs of the times of the Globe upon which we 
dwell. And while meditating upon Zion And Her messengers my mind flits across the Ocean & 


Page264 




runs over the wall And takes A view of A large company of swift messengers who are the Horns 
of Joseph used to push the people together from the ends of the Earth. These meditations Create 
A desire to Convers A few moments with Br Pratt. So while all Nature is locked fast in sleep 
before the dawn of day is broke to start man from his slumber I seat myself to say A few words to 
you. 

I said this was my birth day. Yes I am 42 years old this day. How such figures look to a man 
while Counting up his years in this probation. The vary sight of them Croud into the mind A 
flood of thought even more than tongue can utter or pen can write. The last sixteen years of my 
life has been spent in endeavouring to preach the Gospel & build up the Kingdom of God in 
connexion with my brethren. The past is gone. I have no desire to recal it. I would not wish to 
live my life over if I Could. I feel like looking forward & not backward. I have a great desire that 
I may spend my future days doing the work of righteousness, Honoring the Priesthood & my 
calling, saving the Souls of men, & building up the Kingdom of God that I may have a place with 
the faithful at the end of the race. 

Turn my eyes which way I will Either towards Babylon or Zion And I find the movements & 
signs of Either of them at the present day Are fully keeping pace with the wheels of time. It is 
deeply interesting to see hear, feel, & live in this age and gaze upon the scenery of the whole 
Earth rushing like A Mighty cataract to finish its work while the high minded Jew in the highth 
of his pride was exhausting his talents & oratory to prove to the Roman and the world their right 
to independance greatness & power. 

The Son of God was in Lamb like meekness bowing to one ordinance of Baptism And all the 
rites of the gospel & commandments of his Father looking forward to the day when He should 
make his second visit to his brethren with his reward upon his head. So at the present day while 
the Emperors, Kings, Princes, Lords, Nobles, Presidents Governours, Statesman with all the great 
men of Babylon have been making A desperate Effort to maintain their dignity And appear to a 
good Advantage before the whole Earth, many of the most Noble spirits that ever dwelt in flesh 
like Jesus and the Apostles have been meekly submitting to the ordinances of the gospel, and like 
little children have been subject to the Authority of the Holy Priesthood And have made evry 
sacrafize required and laboured day & night to build up Zion that the honest in Heart & the meek 
of the Earth may have A place to flee to in order to Escape the just judgment of that God whose 
rod is now suspended in the Heavens and is about to Fall upon the Earth and lay great Babylon 
with all of Her greatness pomp power, and glory in the dust. 

My Prayer to God is that evry Elder of Israel & saint of God throughout the whole Earth may be 
incouraged to labour dilligently & faithfully while the day of Harvests lasts. For soon night will 
come when No man can work. Then they will be Just as sure of their reward As was their Chief 
Captain & Head. 

3d } [] I wrote A letter to Mr Wm. B. Goodyear Anapolis Md. I Also recieved A letter from 
Wesley Siddle. Br Whipple called upon me And spent the Afternoon. I had A good time with 


Page265 




him. We conversed upon A variety of subjects. Among other things He informed me that the 
Utah Lake abounded with the largest kind of the Mountain trout some As much as two & three 
feet in length And that all the small & large streams puting out of the Mountains Also Abounded 
with trout. 

I went with Br Whipple into Boston. On my return I Assisted in the Baptizing of two individuals 
in the sea in the midst of the Ice. Br Bird Administered the ordinance in 3 feet of water. They 
were the first He Baptized yet it ? was well done. 

{4th Sunday} The United States is without A President to day. President Polk went out last night. 
President Taylor is installed to morrow. Hence there is no president to day. 

I met A Congregation of Saints And many strangers at Brother Birds for A meeting At 2 oclok. 
Elder Whipple from the Valley of the Salt Lake was present. Elder J. P. Haven from the Bluffs 
Also And A vary full House. 

I Addressed over one hour & had much of the Spirit of God resting upon me And bore A strong 
testimony unto the People. Preached the first principles of the gospel And spoke of the general 
Bare-ings of the work of God in the present Dispensation. In speaking of the body of Christ And 
members in particular I told them I had seen men in my travels without Arms, legs some without 
eyes, &c but I had never seen A man going about without A head. And As A natural body 
without A head would dye so the Church without A Head would die. 

Br Whipple followed me & made some vary good remarks And edefying. He said 
notwithstanding the Jews had Apostitized the right of the kingdom belonged to them & Jesus 
came & set up the kingdom among them. They rejected it. He took the kingdom from the Jews. 
Gave it to the gentile. All that were in the kingdom went to the gentiles with the Kingdom ol 
God. The Gentiles in like manner have Apostitized And have not continued in the goodness ol 
God. Still they have A right to have the kingdom of God set up among them in the last days And 
Joseph Smith being warned & commanded of God has recieved the gospel from the hand of an 
Angel, preached it to the gentiles set up the kingdom for the last time among them. They have 
rejected it. It will now again be taken from them & given to the Jews & all in the kingdom will 
go to the Jews with it & many will come from E. W. N. S. & sit down with Abram &c while the 
/gentiles/ Children of the Kingdom will be cast out. 

Brother Haven followed with interesting remarks in explaining the principles of repentance by A 
figure. If A Mother set two little children at work, they should leave it & go to play & dirty their 
clothes. And when the Mother Came [she] find they had not done the work but been disobediant 
but promised forgiveness if they would go wash their face change their closes [ clothes ] & do the 
work. One goes & do as she is required. The other follows her Mother & crys all day & pleads 
with her to forgive her. When night Comes one has cryed all day for forgiveness but has not done 
the thing required. The other has done the things required which is most justifyed? The one that 
obeyed the Mother. So with Man. It is not evry one [who?] says Lord Lord, that shall enter into 
my Kingdom but He that doeth the will of my father who is in Heaven. 


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I Administered the Sacrament And Confirmed two persons And Blessed three Children, And 
dismissed the meeting. We had A good time. 

5th President Taylor takes his seat to day. I sent 13 school Books * By Br Haven to President 
Young & Council for their exhamination. I mailed Br Pratts letter & paid postage. 

6th } [] I wrote two letters one to James Ferguson & one to John Benbow Also one to Mr 
Good-yier. Recieved [one] from Br McKenzie. 

7th I spent the day writing. 

8th I went into Boston with Mrs Woodruff Br & sister Page. Called at Br Barnes then upon Br 
Cannon 123 Washington street. We met Calvin I Foss in the Streets. He went home with us. 

9th I went into Boston with Calvin And assisted him in getting his Calafomia outfit And returned 
home. 

10th [] I recieved 3 letters to day one from Br & Sister Luther Scammans one from W. I. Appleby 
one from Br John Druce Haverstraw N.y. I also recieved the Herald N york weekly. It contained 
the Closing & breaking up of Congress which was A disgraceful scene. The member got drunk, 
fought, knocked each other down had bloody noses cursed damned &c which shows the state the 
Government is runing into. Elders J. C. Little & Whipple called upon me & spent the evening. I 
had a good time with them. 

1 1th Sunday I recieved A visit from Br Joseph Crapo, Little, Whipple & we all attended Meeting 
At Br Birds. Had A full house & good time. Br Whipple Addressed the meeting And spoke well. 
Was followed by Br Little who spoke in the spirit of God much to our Edifycation. I followed 
And spoke upon A variety of subjects. We partook of the sacrament & Closed the meeting. Br 
Crapo & Bird spent the Evening with me. Calvin Rhoda & Phebe Foss Also spent the with us the 
last sabbath Evening that Calvin will spend with his friends for a long time As he will sail for 
Calafomia this week. 


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12th I spent the day at home writing. Elder Little spent the night with me. We conversed untill 
midnight & returned to rest. 

0 * * * * March 13th 1849 I this day Called upon Francis N Mitchell stone seal engraver, Die 
sinker &c, 15 Tremont Row, Boston, And searched A record entitled General Armoury of 
England By John Burnard Burke Heraldry (to find my coat of Arms which I found to be the 
following): 

Woodroffe or Woodruff Lord Mayor of London 1579 Poyle Co. Surrey. G U on a chev ar, Crest a 
Dexter er three Bucks heads erased sa a Cheil perfess nebulee, sa and ar crest - A Dexter arm 
embowed Hab-ited with leaves vert holding in the hand a branch of Honeysuckle all ppr. 

Woodroffe Paly of six gu and ar a bend gobo-nated az and or Crest A Demi PPr (Ludy) vested ar, 
Holding in the Dexter hand a Civic Crown or. 

14th I Also recieved A present from Br Cannon of two Deguritype likenesses of myself wife & 
three Children in A family groupe. 

15th :)■ :)■ I wrote 3 letters one to Capt Joseph Russell one to Wm. Maxfield one to John Druce. I 
spent the evening with Br Little, Bird & Calvin Foss. 

16th I parted with Br Little & my family & took A packet Chatham And left at 6 oclok PM. 

Sailed through the night & landed at the Break water 7 miles North of South Dennis at 5 oclok in 
the Morning. I was sea sick through the night. I was unwell in the morning. Distance of the 
watter Conveyance 66 miles. 

17th I took Carriage. Rode 7 miles with 7 passengers. Broke the carriage down but landed at Br 


Page268 





Nathanial Eldridge House & spent the day. And preached at his house at night. Had the spirit of 
the Lord And A good time. 7 m. 

18 Sunday I met with a large Congregation of the inhabitants of the cape, Saints, captains, 

Sailors, fisherman, Christians & infidels. I preached to the people in the forenoon, afternoon, & 
Evening. I dismissed the Congregation at 9 oclok then held A Church meeting untill midnight. I 
organized the Church with 21 members. Appointed Nathaniel Eldridge an presiding Elder And 
Horace Humphry & Thomas [.] Eldridge his councellors. I baptized & confirmed one. I 
Administered unto 2 that were sick. I retired to rest at 1 oclock Having held 4 meetings through 
the day And night. I found the Body of the Church badly broaken to peaces through the wicked 
Conduct of A Mr Russell. This is the first time I have ever visited the cape. 

19th I parted with the saints And took the stage at west Harwick And rode 20 miles then took rail 
road & went to Boston. My Company in the stage & mostly in the Cars was sailors Mates & 
Captains on their way to Boston & New York to take ships & go to sea mostly to Calafomia. 

165.1 One Captain was vary sorrowful in consequence of having to leave his family so long. Was 
about on the point of Giving it up & going home the last I saw of him. 

Cape Cod is A plesant place for A summer residence. They have A sea breeze from evry point of 
compass, plenty of fishing on evry hand. The soil most altogether sand, upland pitch & white 
pine low land cedar. What crops are raised is mostly done by dressing the land with fish. 

Distance of the day 75 m. 

On my return home 1 found My Father in haw Ezra Carter Sen. At my house. It was the first time 
He had ever had an opportunity of paying us A visit. Calvin Foss was also still there. 

20th [] } I recieved three letters from W. I. Appleby from Hempstead L L & Sarah B. Foss. I 
wrote one to W. I. Appleby. I recieved the New York weekly Herald And other papers And learn 
the thrones of Europe Are still falling. Two ships have lately been wrecked one [on] our Coast 
one at Cape Cod on purpose to save the insurance which was much more than the Ship was 
worth. The Captain & crew of the ship Franklin were drowned in trying to reach shore after He 
had destroyed the ship & papers were found in the pockets of the Captain showing the loss of the 
ship was by agreement of the owners one of which is under trial for the same. 

21st A tedious rain storm to day which is dangerous for the mariner. Some ships will probably be 
lost to day. 

22d { ■]: } There are certain days of my life which contain events of marked interest to me And my 
posterity An account of which I record in my Journals. These events Are in fulfillment of Ancient 
or modem Prophecy & revelation from God. This day was one of them. 

When Joseph Smith sen The first Patriarch in the church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints laid 
his hands upon my head to give me my Patriarchal blessings He said I should have my Father & 
Houshold standing with me in the covenant of the Gospel And that I should have power to bring 


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them into the kingdom. I afterwards visited my Fathers Household preached the Gospel to them 
And Baptized My father, step Mother, sister & every member of His household & several other 
relatives. 

Also Phebe W Woodruff who[se] Maiden name was Phebe W. Carter before her Marriage Also 
recieved A promise that she should have her Father & Household with her in the New & 
Everlasting Covenant. Her Mother was baptized before her death. Two of her sisters have been 
baptized Her brothers are now vary friendly, And this day I walked through the City of Boston 
with my wife's Father which is my Father in Law Ezra Carter Sen & Calvin Foss his Grand son. 
We went through the ship Areatus in which Calvin Foss is going to Calafomia. We visited the 
common And many parts of Boston. 

We then returned home And Had A meeting at My own Hired house. I opened by prayers Br J C 
Little Addressed the meeting And Wm Page spoke A few moments. I then Arose And addressed 
my friends for an hour in great plainness And expressed my feelings to them in Great plainness. 

At the Close of the Meeting I led my father in Law Ezra Carter sen. with two others down into 
the sea And Baptized them. Mrs Woodruff accompanied her Father to the water And Back again. 
We both felt to rejoice that the words of the old Patriarch was fulfilling upon our heads. Father 
Ezra Carter sen was 76 Seventy six years and 3 three days old this day that I baptized him. I have 
now baptized my Father Woodruff & Father in law Carter. This is a great Consolation to my 
Soul. 

Father Ezra Carter sen was the son of Ezra Carter 84 years old, who was the son of Daniel Carter 
who was the son of Ezekiel Carter. His Mothers Name was Phebe Whitemore the Daughter of 
Elias Whitemore. Father Carter has been vary friendly from the time he first herd the gospel. He 
has always entertained all the saints that called upon him. * * 

23d [] f I recieved one letter from John Druce & wrote one to Br Appleby. In Company with 
Father Carter Mrs Woodruff, Calvin Foss & Wm. Page. We visitd Mount Auburn, which is 
considerd one of the Most interesting Cemetrys in the world. We next visitd Bunker hill 
Monument & Father Carter though 76 years old walked to the top of that monument 222 feet 
hight. After looking through our glasses & with the Naked eye evry point of compass we then 
desended the way we Come up & returned home. 

24th I spent the day writing. I recieved the Herrald Containing the foreign news. War is still rages 
in Europe. One American ship was lost 125 persons lost &c. 

25th Sunday I met with the saints. Spoke A short time. Was followed by Brother Grover Page & 
others. I then Confirmed 3 persons. One was my Father in Law Ezra Carter. We partook of the 
sacrament was Administered. I spoke A few moments upon the power & influence of the spirit & 
work of God in heaven & on Earth. In heaven the Lord had power over Lucipher son of the 
Morning & on Earth the Lord has power over the devil & so has his servants when they have the 
spirit of God in them. And if A man does his Duty his house will be a house of salvation. All 


Page270 




men the righteous & wicked that come beneath his roof will feel the influence of the spirit that 
reigns in that house. 

I held A meeting Also in the Evening & had a good time. 

26th * } I done up A Bundle of slips of paper & sent to Br Willard Richard And wrote A line to 
him containing an account of A letter from Capt Joseph Russell saying that he would give £300 
to assist in paying the debts of the presidency &c. I wrote A letter to Capt Joseph Russell 
Acknowledging the recpt of his letter And Advising him to send the draft to Orson Pratt for 
Collection. 

} 27th [] I done up A bundle of papers for Dr Richards And some Articles for Father Woodruff, 
Sisters Smoot, Edwards A Harris & M. J. w[ere?] things sent by Mrs Woodruff. I recieved A 
letter from Mrs Sayers & wrote one to Leonard Hardy to inform him of the death of A sister 
Courier at Bradford & wished him to come & preach her sermon. 

We had most A tedious storms of rain a wind through the day & night. Many lives will be lost in 
the stonn. 

28th } I wrote A letter to Allexander Badlam by Calvin Foss. I gave him all the news up to this 
time. Sent him New York weekly Herald & other papers. 

29th [] } I recieved A letter from Allexander Badlam at Chreges. They arived at the Harbor in 22 
days from Boston. He gave me an account of the whole voyage. They got along well. I wrote him 
an answer in the one I wrote yesterday. I wrote 2 letters to Josiah Hardy & Henry Mullin. 

30th It is still A rainy day. This past week has been almost one Universal scene of stonn, wind, & 
rain. Rhoda Foss has lain at our House quite sick with A fever. Mrs Woodruff & myself prayed 
with her in the night & administered unto her and she began to recover. We also recieved A letter 
from Br Samuel Hardy saying that Br Josiah Hardy was vary sick & wished us to pray for him 
And we made his case A special subject of prayer. 

There is A report in this days papers that Col Freemont lost 120 Mules in one night with the cold 
& snow on the Mountains, which left him on foot And All his party perished & eat each other up. 
All died but himself & he vary badly frost bitten. 

This is the second party of Missourians who have died A miserable death & each eats [the] other 
up. What is the cause of this? The measure they meet is measured unto them again. They one put 
the prophets patriarchs & Apostles in Chains in prision & fed them on human flesh even the flesh 
of their brethren. That state with this Nation has some heavy bills to pay & serious things to 
Meet. So prepare for it. 

It has since been ascertained that all of the Company did not perish but 120 Mules died in one 
night & all baggage was lost except one trunk. 1 1 men perished in trying to get to the settlements. 


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3 1st I took Cars. Rode to Worcester Springfield New Haven & to New York all the way on the 
rail road. I spent the night with Br Cartwright. I got A letter from Br Appleby. 200 m. 

April 

[] April 1st Sunday I preached to the saints in New York in the forenoon & afternoon in great 
plainness to the Saints. G J Adams was present in the Afternoon. Left before meeting Closed. I 
took tea with Elder Hollister. I Called upon Ilus F Carter in the evening. 

2d I met with Br Hollister & Mr Joseph Smith at 38 wall street in the Afternoon crossed to 
Brook-lin & spent the night with Mr Water House corner of Columbia & President street 
Brooklin. I read some of Andrew Jackson Davis work Called A Revelation but I am convinced it 
was not A Revelation from God. 

3d I went to 38 wall street. Spent some time with Hollister And Joseph Smith who is believing 
the Gospel & expects to Go to the Salt Lake. He went with me to A store And I bought some 
goods 6 lb [-] for $21.39 to send to Father Woodruff. 

I spent the night at Br } Cartwright. I wrote A letter to O Pratt. I spoke of the draft of Capt 
Russell. I saw the 2d No of the Guardian. I wrote to Mrs Woodruff & mailed both letters. 

I have Ascertained to day the Cause of my plain talk on Sunday. Their is A Cause for it. 

4th I packed up all the New York Herald & took [them] with me for the Historian & took boat & 
rail road & landed at Philadelphia & called upon Elder Gibson 83 dock street And preached to 
the saints in the evening & spent the night with Br Gibsons House on Wallace street 8 doors 
below 13. 100 m. 

5th :]■ :]■ I wrote two letters one to Orson Hyde. Sent him $2 for Papers to cape cod And two full 
sheets to President Brigham Young & council. I spoke vary plain upon A variety of subjects. 
Gave An account of the work with me. Spoke of Smith Adams, Van Dugan & Co. And the spirit 
of God was upon me when I wrote. I spoke of the Judgments of God upon the Earth. 

6th ;}■ I wrote two letters to H C Kimball & A. Woodruff. [] I walked to Gibsons office. Got A 
letter from John Sanderson. 

7th :]■ I wrote A Letter to Br Wm Stewart & inclosed $35 dollars in Gold, And an order on O 
Smoot for $15 making $50 in all which I send him for A Mule He let me have. I wrote two other 
letters. Elder Appleby Arived in the city. I went to see him. 5 m. 

8th Sunday I met with the Saints And preached to them 3 times. Laid hands upon 4 Saints who 
were sick. I had a good meeting. 

9th I paid for Aphek Woodruff for Boots shoes &c $3.75. 1 done up packages & pamphlets for 
the Presidency in the valley And A full file of the New York Herald And I wrote A page f to W 


Page272 




Richards And put into it many scraps of papers. Br Appleby Baptized 3 of his sons And 1 
Daughter. I Confirmed them And blessed them. 

* 

10th A rainy day. I had An interview with Appleby & Crump. I deliverd to Br Appleby $21, $15 
for A. O. Smoot And $6 for Aphek Woodruff to buy Groceries with. I wrote A O Smoot } A 
letter. I Called upon Mrs Mary Ann Banks 254 Seventh street. I took tea with them. Herd 
excellent Music & went home. 

1 1th ^ I wrote A letter to Aphek Woodruff & done up a bundle of papers to A O Smoot, A. 
Woodruff J. Benbow & B Young. I put my package in A Box & put in 4 lb. of [-] 2 lbs. tea for 
Aphek Woodruff besides the main bundle. I had $2 for the Above things of Crump. I met with 
the Saints. Had a good time. 

12th The saints took passage in a section Boat for Pittsburgh 8 from Reaklestown 13 from New 
Haven & 50 from Philadelphia total 71. They were much crowded & A great bustle in getting off. 
I took boat road to Beverly. Spent the night with Br Flagg. 20 m. 

13th I spent several hours on the banks of the Deleware river & saw the fisherman catch shad. I 
saw them catch 100 to a haul. I walked through Beverly & in the afternoon I took cars for 
Bearding-town. Walked 5 miles to Caleb Wrights. I was vary weary. I spent the night. 20 m. 

14th I Arose with sore feet in the morning & walked to Jacobstown & to Homerstown. I ought to 
have gone to Arnytown. I was sent 4 miles out of my way. The wind blew so hard I Could 
scearsly walk against it. I Carried my Carpet bag & walked 10 miles with blistered toes & weary 
limbs. I felt as though I Could Hardly get to Hornerstown. I Arived At Elder Curtis at noon vary 
weary & lame. I took some dinner & went to bed. 

Wm Smith had visited this region of Country & drawn some 3 or 4 after him. He told many lies 
about the 12 & others. 10 m. 

15th Sunday I preached to the Saints at Homerstown in the forenoon & Evening. I spent the night 
with Br Curtis. 

16th I left Hornerstown & rode with two young men to Toms River. Our road lay through A level 
pine forest about 30 miles almost one universal sand bed. There is A small village in the midst of 
the pine forest Called Manchester. I rode on a load of plank 3,500 lbs drawn by 4 mules with 
wide tire yet they sunk into the sand over the [b?]elly which made hard travelling. I called at 
Anthony Ivins And spent the night. 30 m. 

I preached in the evening to the saints. I had a severe Cold And sore throat. 

17th } Called upon Br Reamen. Got Boots mended. Wrote 3 letters to John Druce Phebe W. 
Woodruff & Jairus Sandford. I preached at night to a full House. Spent the night with Mr Ivins. 


Page273 




18th It rained in the morning. At Noon I went in company with Br & Sister Wilber in their 
waggon through the pine plains to Hornerstown. It Hailed Snowed & rained hard on the road. We 
were Cold when we got through. We spent the night when we got there at Elder Curtis. 30 m. 

19th I preached in the evening to a full House. My Cold & lungs were better. I talked vary plain 
to the people. 

* 20th /Stephen B Rose./ 1 Baptized & Confirmed 3 persons of Mr Wycolf family. They have 
been believing many years. Joseph the Twelve & others have visited them. I Blessed 4 children. 
Laid hands upon 3 that were sick. I then rode to Boardentown & Called upon Sister Fenting. I 
took Cars At 5 oclok Saw an old blind man fall from the Cars onto the track & break his ribs & 
He sufferd much. I rode to Newark New Jersey & spent the night with Br John Sanderson At Br 
Luke Provost. Distance 7 m. 

21st I walked with Br Sanderson to Bloomfield & spent the night at Elder John Johnsons. 6 mile. 

22d Sunday I preached in the Morning & Afternoon. 1 was Baptized. I confirmed him. I 
organized A branch & ordained 1 Elder & Administered to 4 that were sick. We walked to 
Newark. I preached & Organized A Branch there. Ordained 1 Elder Administered to 3 sick & 
spent the night there. I wrote A letter to O. f Hyde & sent $ 1 for papers. 6 m. 

23d I took Cars. Rode to New York. Herd that T. D. Brown from Liverpool had Arived in New 
York had waited A week to see me. Was now about to leave for the west. I went down 
immediately to see him. Found him at the Hotel opposite Jersey City ferry. Our meeting was one 
of Rejoicing. We spent about 3 hours to gether. He had 9 in family wife children relatives &c. He 
paid the fare of About 40 families to Zion who went with Capt Jones & Spences. He sent up also 
about $10,000 dollars worth of goods to the valley. He was known as A Latter Day Saint on the 
Steem Ship & Exherted a good influence so much so that the first Officers of the Steemer with 
the Mates, Clerk, purser &c came to see him leave the city for the west. I was introduced to them. 
I took tea with him & family. He put £1 A sovereign into my hands at the table. May the Lord 
bless him fourfold I pray. 15 miles. 

24th [] I recieved A Letter from Br Wells of waterville Ct. I walked to the foot of Chamber street 
N.Y. /to/ took boat. It had left so I walked back. Read the papers, stars &c containing Elder Jones 
Letter Containing An account of his last visit & Conference with the welsh saints. It was 
glorious. I shed tears of Joy over it. A Brother gave me A Calafomia knife blade 15 inches long. 
At 2 oclok I took the warren foot of vesey street And rode to Haverstraw N York. I found Elder 
John Druce. I spent the night with him. 50 m. 

25th } I wrote Mrs Woodruff A letter And Preached at night to a full House. Solemnity rested 
upon all. A number were believeing. I spent the night with Br Druce. He has A good large House 
& garden. The House was Called Haunted by the Dead. His family was disturbed for A while, 
but after Dedicating the family & House unto God, & Rebuked all spirits which were not of God 


Page274 




to depart out of the house they were not troubled any more. 

26 I took steamer & rode to New York. There was two Cases of Cholera while I was at 
Haverstraw. Both proved fatal. I spent the night with Br Cartwright. 40 m. 

27th I took cars. Rode to Hempstead. Walked to Jeremiah Bruwers. Gave out an appointment for 
Meeting. Caught 8 trout weigh 1/2 lb each in few minutes in the pond. I preached at night & 
spent the night with Jacob Brower. 35 m. 

28th I returned to Brooklin & spent the night at the Water House. 35. 

29th * * * Sunday I met with the saints in New York And preached to them in the morning. 
Newell, Rogers, & others who had been cut off from the Church were present. I preached in the 
Afternoon to all who were present. I then dismissed the meeting, retained the Church, And held 
A Church meeting & from testimony we cut off four persons for Adultery, whose names were as 
follows: David Day Wm Evens Emma Day Ann Hart. The testimony was of such A nature that 
there was not A dessenting vote. 

30th I took cars rode to New Haven called upon Lewis Allen Comer of Grove & High Street 
New Haven Ct And talked over old times. I then went to Smith Turtles & Jairus Sandfords & 
held a meeting at his house & organized the saints into A branch. Appointed Br Sherman Barnes 
as presiding Elder. Voted that he be ordained an Elder. I spent the night at Smith Tuttles. 
Distance of the day 75 m. 


May 

May 1 st I took Cars rode to Chester took stage rode to waterbury & waterville & spent the night 
with Br Wells. 30 m. 

2d I went to the Creek caught A few trout & walked in the Afternoon to Br Sheldon Woosters 
Nau-gabug. Held a meeting and Organized A branch And Appointed Samuel Wells Presiding 
Elder. I spent the night with Br Wooster. 8 miles. 

3d Br Wooster carried me in his waggon to Br Doolittles. I preached at night at Br Thorp’s & 
spent the night there. 20 m. 

4th I took cars rode to New Haven, & spent the night with J. S. 13 m. 

5th I parted with Father Jairus Sandford. After ordaining Br Shennan Bames to the Office of an 
Elder, I took the cars rode to Boston, And Arived Home with my family in the edge of the 
Evening, & found them well After being Absent more than A month. I found Father Carter had 
Arived An hour or two before me. I was glad to meet with him. I spent the night at home once 
more with my family. 150 m. 

6th Sunday I met with the saints At my house & preached in the Afternoon. Elder Thomas 
McKenzie was present. We had a good time. 


Page275 




7th [] 4 ^ I recieved this morning from Mrs W 8 letters which had been recieved in my Absence 
from the following persons: Wesley Siddle Wm Maxfield, James Mellen Henry Mullen, Wm H 
Wilson, Wm. Low, Samuel Dam, & Allexander Badlam Containing 4 full sheets of paper written 
from Panama which was Highly interesting. He gave An interesting account of the Isthmus & his 
journey And Prosperity. He was About to set sail for the gold digings. 

I Also wrote 5 letters to the following persons: Wm Low Wm Sweat, Tho. Cartwright Wm H. 
Wilson G J. Hardy. I Also sent Orson Pratts Pamphlet of Answer was Joseph Smith Called of 
God to J Mellen & Ep. 

8th } I wrote 3 letters to James Mellen, Wm Maxfield and Samuel Dam. I demanded Br Samuel 
Dam license for intoxication lying & disgracing the Cause. I sent O Pratts Pamphlet to the 
following persons: /Wm Low, Wm Sweat Wm H Wilson G J Hardy John W Roberts Jairus 
Sandford & John Druce/ Wm. Maxfield Joseph Russell Ozem Woodruff Azmon Woodruff G A. 
Smith Esther Fanham. Elder MCKenzie has now two days to write & to day we dug our garden 
all over with shovels. Br Leonard Hardy spent the night with me last night, & came again this 
evening. Br Abram Boynton Also called upon me to day. I re-tiered the Guardian up to the 5 No 
& Stars to April 1st. All bear good News. 

9th } [] I recieved A letter from Jacob Gibson & wrote one to him & sent him O Pratts Pamphlet, 
& one to Shelden Wooster, an Epistle to John Druce. 


Receipt for Etching & Engraving on Steel 

Take A small quantity of lampblack mixed with some of the strongest Varnish mixed to A paste 
with A knife on A plate then thined with turpentine so as to write or draw with it. Then write on 
steel any thing that is Needed And let it dry. Then take A Tea spoonfull of Aquafortis A drop of 
quicksilver in it. When the quicksilver is desolved Add A tea spoonful of water. Then it is ready 
for use. 

How to use the Material for etching 

Cover the edge & back with the same material that we write with And all parts whare it is not 
wished for the Aquafortis to take Effect And when the Article is dry (the steel should be kept free 
from greese) then Apply the preperation of quick silver & Aquafortis with A small rag rolled into 
A little brush diped into the preperation & rubed even across the length of the blade & let it 
remain 2 1/2 minutes after the polish is taken off. Then dip the blade in water then wipe it dry. 
Then take clear turpentine & rub over the blade untill the varnish is clean off & while the blade is 
wet with the Terpentine dip it into dry slack lime. Then polish the blade in Chalk & water with A 
peace of soft leather And it will Appear of A silver cast. 

To Engrave on Steel 


Page276 




Follow the same direction As for Etching ownly Cover the steel all over with the varnish. Then 
write on it as soon as it is dry with A Needle or Any sharp instrument that will cut through the 
varnish so as to give room for the Aquafortis to eat And instead of 2 1/2 minutes let it Eat 10 
minutes or as long as is found necessary by Experiment. Go through the same process of cleaning 
& polishing as before. 

For Curing Any kind of Hydes with wool or Hair on 

Take Common salt & Allum of Equal quantity & make strong brine of it. Let the skin be washed 
Clean with water, then lay them flat on the ground with the wool or Hair down. Then take the salt 
& Allum water & cover the skins with it on the flesh side. Let it remain on a small skin 24 hours 
on A large skin 48. Then wash it in clean water. Then stretch it. Let it dry. Then Curry it with 
Courrier tools untill it is pliable. 


10th [] } I recieved A Letter from Jacob Gibson & wrote him one in return & sent him A 
pamphlet on the 9th. I planted my Garden to day all over & had A good meeting in the evening at 
my house. I laid hands upon sister Page for sickness. 

1 1th [] I recieved A letter from Samuel Wells containing $2 for papers. I walked into the City 
with the Br Mckenzie & Father Carter. I sent O Pratts Pamphlets to the following Persons: G J 
Flagg Anthony Ivins Jeremiah Brower Samuel Wells John Doolittle John Johnson Elder Curtis. 

12th I took Cars rode to Worcester then to Northbride at Holebrooks Station and stoped at Sister 
Parley Pratts. Then went up & spent the Night at Mr Aldrich. 65 m. 

13th Sunday I preached to the people & held a Church meeting. Communed with the Saints. 
Reproved some. Spent the night at Mr Bennetts. Laid hands upon 1 sick. 

14th We Baptized 1, & I confirmed her. Then took cars with Br Sweat [and] Sister Pratt & rode 
to Worcester then to Boston. 

I spent A little time in Boston. I Called upon Br Cannon. Saw Elder Thomas McKenzie Pack up 
a large Box of Books near 400 lbs which He has Collected in Boston for schools in the valley. He 
has been faithful in his mission in collecting Books during the past season to assist the Saints in 
es-stablishing schools in the valley of the Mountains. I went home & spent the night. 

There has been A great Mob of late I 1 in New York. The papers have been full of it for several 
days. The Boston Daily times contained A long Article Headed Dreadful Riot and Bloodshead At 
the Astor Place Theatre. The Military Called out, fire-ing on the people. Awful sacrifice of Life, 
21 Persons Killed, 33 wounded, & 53 of the rioters Arested. On Thursday night May 10th 1849 
A mob of 20,000 Collected at the Above Theatre in consequence of the Appearance of Mr 
Macready An Englishman upon the Stage. The Military [was] called out & fired upon the people 


Page277 




And killed 21 And wounded 33. The spirit of Mobing has been Manifest evry since in New York. 
And the spirit of Mobing war confusion And Anarchy is appearing all over the Earth. A mob of 
late arose in Canida of 7,000, surrounded the Parliament House broke in the windows. Stoned & 
Egged the Govornour Lord Elgin & all members of Parliament. Burnt the Parliament House to 
the ground & all the Canadian Records for 500 years. War is poured out upon all Europe at the 
present time. 

On my return home I recieved two letters one from Wm Lowe [] And James L Curtis. 

15th * } I wrote 3 letters one to James L Curtis, Wm Low, And one to Orson Hyde, Containing 
12 New subscribers for the Guardian viz J. Brower, J. W Roberts, L Doolittle, M. Cannon, B. 
Watts, S Wells, D Deavenport 2 Cap J. Duckworth &c. & H C. Aldrich, Amounting to $18 
which I this day put into the Hands of Br McKenzie to take to Elder Hyde. I wrote A few lines to 
the Post Masters who would open my letters to steal the money on the way. I sent Br Hyde A 
Paper containing an account of the riot. 

16th [] f 0 1 went into Boston with Father Carter Mrs Woodruff And Phebe & Susan Woodruff & 
got all our Dageurrotype likeness taken in one group, By Br. M. Cannon. I then went to Oak Hall 
& bought A suit of clothes Dress Coat, vests, & Pants & Hat All amounting to $28. 

I returned to Cambridgeport & obtained 4 letters from Thomas Cartwright, Josiah G Hardy James 
H Wilson & Phebe W Woodruff. I wrote 3 letters to Thomas Cartwright, Wm. H. Wilson, and 
Orson Hyde And sent one New subscriber for the paper Wm H Wilson. I recieved $4 in Br 
Cartwright Letter for Papers which He recieves from Br. Hyde. I forward the money By Brother 
McKenzie also $2 from Br Wilson, Total $6 to day, $18 yesterday. In all $24. 1 forward this last 
letter & Money by Br McKenzie. I walked up with Father Carter to see A fire in Cam-bridgeport. 

T Mckenzie recieved of T Cartwright $4 in Boston $1 Total $29. 

? I met with Father Ezra Carter & Mrs Phebe W. Woodruff And Conversed with Father Carter 
upon the subject of the Priesthood. I laid my hands upon his head & ordained him to the office of 
High Priest And to the office of A Patriarch in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. 

He is the ownly individual out of A numerous family who has recieved the gospel. It was 
Manifest in various ways that He was of the Blood Of Ephraim from the loins of Joseph. It was 
fully manifest unto me while my hands was upon his head that this was the case. The power of 
God rested upon us while attending to these ordinances And we were filled with the spirit of 
God, Prophecy & rejoiceing. 

17th We recieved European News this morning. Nearly all Europe is still in war. The Cholera is 
making great ravages through the United States. It has just entered New York. 8 deaths yesterday. 
Br McKenzie left me to day for the west. I think He is faithful. I preached in the evening to A full 
House. A number were believing. 

18th In company with Father Carter & Mr Woodruff I visited Brs Cannon, Snow & Page. I then 


Page278 




went to the water & Br Bird Baptized one man. 

19th Note(3) I recieved the New York Weekly Herald, filled with News. Also the Morning 
Papers say that half of the business part of the city of St Louis Mo is now lying in ruins by fire. 
Five banking houses evry insurance office & twenty seven steem Boats, together with the 
Telegraph office are among the vast property destroyed. Also several terrible ship wrecks & loss 
of life. Watertown New York is also burnt up. The Herald has the full particulars of the dredful 
riot & Bloodshed in New York. Also the Continued wars of Europe And the sweeping progress 
of the Cholera in America Esspecially in the western states. It says that 2 1 deaths occurred by 
Cholera on a ship loaded with Latter Day Saints, or Mormons. Pestilence is raging among the 
25,000 gold seekers gatherd in Mo to go to the gold digings By the way of the Salt Lake. All the 
Earth seems to be in Confusion & Commotion with war savord, plague pestilence fire 
earthquakes & storms. The Bible Doctrin & Covenants, & Book Mormon are truly being 
fulfilled. 

Among other interesting News the Herald contains An account of A visit of the Engeneers of the 
Panama rail road Expedition to the People lately discoverd Called the Mandingo Indians at the 
Man-dingo Bay which contains 113 Islands which are held in the sole possession of the 
Mandingo Indians who do not permit the residence therein of any Human being not of their own 
tribe & linage. They will not as yet communicate to any but their own tribe any knowledge of 
their records or History. 

They live by themselves some occupying the Islands some the main land but all firmly united as 
a band obeying one chief or Old man (A Patriarch) who is believed to be Endowed by God with 
all wisdom might And power. The Government is Patriarchal. The Old man (or Patriarch) is the 
spiritual Adviser as well as Chief Judge of all temporal affairs. He is powerful in mind & body 
And all his faculties are evergreen. God endows him with peculiar health. He is Acknowledged 
& regarded as the vicegerent [sz'c] of God And all his orders Are obeyed. He is also the great 
Medicine or Cure all in Cases of sickness or infirmity. They apply to him And whether relief is 
obtained or not the applicants are contented. 

Col Hughes propounded the question upon whom does the office of old man (Patriarch) descend 
At the decease of the present "old man." The reply was to the next oldest man of the tribe. 
Suppose the successor should not be Endowed with the same qualities of intelligence? Reply that 
cannot be for when the mantle to descends the Great spirit imbues that mind with all knowledge, 
x x 

The main land is seldom if ever Approached by foreigners & nothing is known of it. The Islands 
produce the Cocoa nut tree, x x x 

Before reaching the entrance of the Mandingo Bay some 20 miles from land we discoverd A fleet 
of canoes under sail managed with a skill that Equals the best water hall boatman & on bearing 
down found them to contain Mandingo Indians upon fishing Excursions, x x x 


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The men are short & stumpy not over 4 feet 6 inch on the Average. Thick & square built And are 
Capable of Enduring great fatigue. Their heads are remarkable large & round features prominent 
with all the physiognomy of the Jew. 

They have A plurality of wives according to their means. They pennit No Communication with 
foreigners & wom[e\a?]n so offending is stoned to death. It is A part of their religious creeb to 
keep their race pure & unadulterated. 

They profess to have A restorative for the organs of production the Effect of which upon one 
Administration will last for Eight years. Our surgeon obtained some of the remedy which has 
been pronounced part & parcel of the body of the turtle. 

A question Arose As to whether this people be not descendants of one the lost tribes of Israel. 

Col Hughes Avowed the purpose of his visit viz to make A Journey overland to the [ ]. He 

was refered to the "old man" who alone Could give a reply. He was sent for. In three days made 
his appearance. 

They are careful in answering questions in regard to their Country And are jealeous of All 
foreigners. They have never submitted to any foreign Government. Although they are within the 
bounds of the New Granadian Government they pay no tribute nor Admit of Any Allegiance 
whatever. 

In trying to get some clue of their Early History the question was Asked who lived here 400 or 
500 years ago? The reply was "Tires Father." We asked A man [who] looked about 60 years of 
Age how old He was. He replyed 121 years 

The following Conversaton took place between the "Old man" (or Patriarch) & Col Hughes: Old 
man of America has much land far off on the pacific. Two much days to ketch um by land. Too 
much days to catch um by water round Cape Horn. Wants to make A road nearer. Catch em 
quick. Wants old man to send some faithful indians to escort him over the land to the Pacific. 

Old Man "Land not good. Cant catch em there. Better catch em by Cape Horn. No make A road 
in Mandingo Country. God Almighty get vexed." Huoo, Huoo Huoo, Huoo, repeated in groans 
by the Indians. 

Huges Will you allow us to go across? 

Old Man No. Huoo, Huoo, Huoo, responded the Indians & the Council broake up. 

The foregoing is the account which the visiters give of the interview with those Indians. It is truly 
interesting. Many new things are about to be brought to light truly. 

I took Cars. Rode to Fall River & spent the night with Br Low. 50 m. 

20 Sunday I met in council with the saints in the morning Communed in the Afternoon & 


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Preached in the Evening. Laid Hands upon 5 sick. 

21st Spent A part of the day fishing & Caught but little. Held A meeting at night. Spent the night 
with Br Low. 

22d Took Cars. Rode to Boston & spent the night at home. I recieved [] 1 letter 2 New York 
Papers & one M. Star. The Star Contained A letter from me. 75. 

23d The St Louis fire has now ascertained to have burned 418 buildings. Number of lives lost 20. 
Loss of Property $6,000,000. Two thirds of the whole sale dry goods dealers & one half of the 
retail commission & other stores of the city are burned out. There has Also been a great fire in 
Milwakie Mich. Also A great fire in China. Many thousand Houses burned, iminens property 
destroyed & many lives lost. The great Steemer Empire on the North Ri[ver?] was run into & 
sunk And about 30 persons drowned. 

The City of New Orleans is inundated with water And about being washed away by the Missippi 
River breaking through the levy & runing into the City Lives are lost iminens property destroyed 
& danger of the whole City being washed into the Gulf of Mexico. Truly calamities are bursting 
upon this Nation & the Judgments of God are resting upon her. 

I recieved 2 letters to day from Thomas McKenzie & [] Phebe Wheeler. 

24th [] } I recieved A letter from Br Thomas Cartwright & wrote 4 letters to T. Cartwright T 
McKenzie, P.M. Wheeler & Mr Grover. 

25th [] I recieved A long letter from Mother Woodruff. 

26th * Elders G. J. Hardy & Samuel Hardy visited me And in Company with Lather Carter we 
visited Boston. Went into the Common on to the state house, through the Quincy Market, 
through the Navey Yard, on Board of the Lranklin. Visited the ships on the stocks. Went through 
the rope walk 75 rods long. Saw the Canon Morters Balls shot &c. Went to Bunker Hill. Saw the 
remains of the ditch flung up. I then went to the rail way. Parted with the brethren. They went 
home & I the same. 8 m. 

27th Sunday I met in the family capacity]. Had A meeting in the morning And I Preached in the 
Afternoon, confirmed one. Spent the Evening at Br Snows. 

28th * I walked with Lather Carter to the East Cambridge glass works & went through them & 
home again. 

* I spent the evening with Br Delin from Sweeden. We compared the sweed Bible with the 
English. He related two interesting incidents which took place in sweeden. 1st as follows: During 
the days of the sixts reigning king before the present one on the Throne, The King had a dream in 
the night. He saw Blood upon the floor of his room untill it increased so that he stood in blood 
above his Ankles. It frightend him And He awoke. 


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He thought the room he occupied was the Parliament House. As soon As he awoke He Called 
one of his Generals to him to tell him his dream. And As the General Entered the room He drew 
his window curtain Aside & looked towards the Parliament House & saw A light in it. He said 
General I see A light in the Parliament House. The General says I think it must be the Moon. 
K[ing:] No sir the Moon does not shine there. He then Called Six other Generals & two soldiers 
And ordered them to accompany him to the Parliament House & they accompanied the king. 
When they arived at the House they saw it lighted with A large pair of Chandeliers holding 
lighted Candles And as their had never been any such thing in the house they were Afrighted. 

The king ordered one of the Generals to take the key upon the door & go in & each one of the 
Generals in there turn fell upon there knees & said they would rather die than go into the house. 

The King then said I am your king. I will lead the way. You must follow. So the king opened the 
door & the Generals & soldiers followed him. They Passed through A long Hall which was hung 
in black in morning. They went into the Main Hall of the Parliament house, which was brilliantly 
lighted. They there saw three tables. Two was occupied by two young men one sitting at each as 
recorders with Books. Upon the top of the other sat A vary Ancient Old looking man. Upon one 
side of the Hall or room stood an Exicutioner with an Ax in his hand And A Block before him 
And 500 Nobleman were crouded together like sheep in A pen. And when the old man gave the 
word the executioner took one at A time & cut their heads off upon the block untill he had 
beheaded evry man And the blood Coverd the floor more than Ancle deep & run into the street. 

The king understanding that it was An open vision & not a reality Asked the old man several 
times when the fulfillment of it would be. The old man Answered not. The king then fell upon 
his knees And Prayed the Lord to tell him the fulfillment of the Vision. The old man then spoke 
& Said that it would not be in his day or the days of his Children but it would be in the days of 
the sixth or seventh living from him. Then the light went out the vision passed & all was 
darkness. 

The king & Generals all went into the street shut the Parliament house door returned to there 
homes & wrote the testimony to the world in their own language which remains in the libraries of 
Swee-den to this day. The sixth King is now reigning And it is expected the seene will soon take 
place As the King is now with the poor And the Nobleman against both king & People. 

The second incident was A Certain Hymn was herd sung in three different Meeting Houses in 
different parts of sweeden, at the same hour of the night, by three seperate parties. And the 
account was published in their seperate News papers at the same day in different parts of the 
kingdom. This was in the year AD 1837. 

[ ] 

29th [] } {W. I Appleby Died of Cholera} I recieved one letter from W W. Wade one from Elder 
Gibson And the Frontier Guardian. I wrote 5 letters to O. Hyde to J. Gibson Little & Hardy W W 


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Wade & Sarah B Foss. 


I recieved the Painful intelligence By Br Gibsons letter that Elder Wm I Appleby Died of the 
Cholera on board of the steemer while on his way from St Louis to the bluffs with many of the 
Company with him. The Cholera is laying waste the inhabitants of the Earth in the western states 
esspecially on the rivers & our brethren are in the midst of it & several of them are falling by it. 
Elder Appleby has been A faithful labourer in the vineyard & has left A strong testimony to the 
world. I little thought the last time I saw him that He would leave us so soon. 

How many of the Saints are falling or have died by the Cholera I know not But I have felt much 
depressed in spirit for A week past And have felt the forebodings of trying News. My prayer to 
God is that He will spare his Saints from the pestilence which is now walking in darkness & 
wasteth at Noon day. I expect this season will be a trying time to the inhabitants of the Earth And 
time must determine whose life will be preserved. /June 13 I recieved word saying that Elder 
Appleby is not dead but is well & gone to the Bluffs./ 

30th A rainy day. Br Sanderson Called upon me in the Morning. I recieved A letter from Elder [] 
} James Mellen on tything & papers And wrote one letter to him in return & sent him one 
pamphlet. 

3 1 st { 'T } 1 recieved Another letter to Day from Elder Jacob Gibson from Philadelphia saying 

they had recieved further word Concerning the death of Elder Appleby And his Company. He 
says Br Hammer writes from Jefferson City Mo to his Brother in Phil, saying the following 
persons had died of the Cholera: W.I. Appleby, Adams & Wife & 2 Children, Malin, Mrs 
Hammer & Child, & Hand, wife & Child, Hall, & Sister Granger And A number of the Venners 
& more not named. /June 13 Elder Appleby is alive the rest named are dead./ 

Also the Boston Daily times Has the following Concerning the companies going to the gold 
Digings: "Letters from Independance Mo say that the Cholera is sweeping evry thing before [it]. 
Among those who have Died there is Lieut Schenck of the Navy. Gloom reigns on evry side. 
Business is at a complete stand. All the Calafomians have putty much left in a fright. The 
Cholera rages so extensively among some of the Emigrating parties that they do not even stop to 
bury their Dead. Corpses Are found wraped in their winding sheets lying along the road in heeps 
of five & six together. The seene on evry side is painful & Horrible in the extreme. 

I held A meeting at My house. An Infidel of the worst Class opposed After I Got through 
preaching. His conversation was nonsenes folly & Blaguardism against God, Jesus Christ, and 
All their revelations given for the benefit of man. 

June 

June 1st [] 4 1 recieved A letter from Br Wm Sweet And I wrote one to Wm. Sweet. I wrote Br 
Gibson A letter And sent him 125 O. Pratts Pamphlets. 

June 2d I rode in the Cars in company with Elder Leonard Hardy to Bradford And we spent the 


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night with Br Samuel Hardy. 30 m. 

3d Sunday I met with the Saints at Br Samuel Hardys. I preached to them And Had a good time. 
We had a church Meeting And All spoke. I Administered to 3 that were sick. 

4th In Company with Samuel & Josiah Hardy we went fishing. We caught 8 trout & 8 Pickerell 
& some other fish. I caught most of the fish. It was A vary hot day And A Heavey rain & thunder 
storm at night. I spent the night with Josiah Hardy. 6 m. 

5 I left Bradford in Company with Leonard Hardy & rode to Boston. I returned home & hoed my 
Garden over in the Afternoon And found my vegitable had grown half their size in 3 days. 

I perused several papers to day And found the Missippi River had flooded more then half the City 
of New Orleans. The river had broak through the levies & was Almost destroying that City. All 
the burying grounds were under water. The Court Houses floodlied so that men had to float about 
on Hen coops pig trough Crockery Crates & any thing they Could get onto in order to go from 
House to House. Alli-gaters & serpants of all kinds take up their residency in the city & enter into 
the Houses. Their is great destruction At the present time of life & property by flood fire plague 
pestilence & war in all the Earth. War is begining to be poured out upon the Whore of all the 
Earth in fulfillment of the word of God. The Cholera is raging in the western world to A great 
degree And A number of the Saints have fallen with the rest. A letter from Jefferson Mo says that 
there had been 52 deaths out of 150 on the [Mo river?]. Br Appleby was on that boat. Br Hardy 
spent the night with [me]. 30 m. 

6th Accounts continue to pour in from various parts of the country respecting the Cholera. 

7th 20 cases of Cholera reported in New York to day. 4 cases in Boston. I spent A part of the day 
in Boston. [] I recieved A letter from Br Hollister to day. 

8th 60 cases of cholera & 10 death to day in New York. I recieved [] A letter to day from sister 
Sayers at Jefferson City Mo saying I am sitting by the side of sister Sabra Granger was taking the 
last departing of her body as she is dying with the Cholera. I recieved A Paper from the Bluffs 
Also the Star of 1st May which gave interesting Accounts of the progress of the work of God in 
that land. 

9th NY. 26 cases 12 deaths. Gen Gaines of New Orleans has died of the Cholera also Gen Worth. 

I recieved the following in the Boston Times: We have advices by Express from Salt Lake [of?] 
the 15th April. New and extraordinary discoveries of Gold have been made in the Mountains 
near the Salt Lake. The people in the valley were Anxious for A Territorial Government & were 
about to send Mr Bern-hisel to congress for that purpose. The saints were prospering at the salt 
Lake. 

;}■ I wrote A letter to Elder Orson Pratt & gave him an account of the signs of the times in this 
country the ravages by mobs fire, water Cholera Indian wars &c &c. Br Sanderson called upon 


Page284 




me & spent the night. Allexander Badlam was taken sick like the Cholera. I Administered to him 
& he got well. 

10th Sunday I preached to the Saints in Cam-bridgeport & had a good time with them. 

1 1th ^ I wrote 3 letters to John Druce, D. S. Hollister David Turner [ [] ?] to the following 
persons: Mr Isaac Moorehouse JS likeness, O [Pratt?] letter & Epistle David Turner portrait & O 
P Letter Frederick Webster portrait & Letter John Druce 3 portraits 10 O Pratts Letters. All sent 
by Express to D. S. Hollister 259 4th Avenue New York. I Mailed Elder Pratts Letter & sent him 
A Copy of his letters which I published. I recieved the following account of the Boston Daily 
Times which I forwarded to O Pratt in his letter: 

"From A letter from Fort Leavenworth May 15 The Amount of Emigration over the plains is 
immense beyond all estimate. It is predicted there will be great distress & privation among the 
Emigrating Caravans The Teams travel about 16 miles per day. There have more than 20,000 
Mules oxen & Horses gone from Indipendance alone from St Joseph 14,000 And the whole 
region at this moment seems like one tented field for miles & Miles in all directions. There are 
more than 50,000 animals on the plains at the vary lowest estimate & more than nine tenths are 
travelling along the same track. Recommendations are about to be made officially from this point 
to the general Government to furnish relief as soon as possible to be forwarded on to the plains 
for the vast multitudes who otherwise must inevitably leave their bones to bleach by the way. Col 
Summers the Commanding officer at this point who has had much experience on the plains & 
knows their peril says he fears there will be more deaths on the road to Calafomia this summer 
than there was in mexico during the war." 

12th ;} * I wrote two letters to Dominicas Carter & Orson Hyde & two to N.H. Felt making a 
request of them to see to my things in case Elder Appleby was dead. 

13th *[]:]■ I recieved A letter to Day giving me the glorious news that Elder W. I. Appleby was 
still in the land of the living was well also his family & had gone up to the Bluffs & was not 
dead. As half a dozen letters had stated him to be I was truly glad to hear this. I wrote two letters 
to Little & Hardy & S & J Hardy. I spent the afternoon with my wife & children & Br Cannon & 
family in walking over Mount Auburn. It is indeed a grand scenery in the summer. 

In New York to day 40 cases 15 death. 8 m. 

June 14th I spent most of the day in aranging my affairs to leave for New Brunswick. I packed up 
a large Bundle of scraps of Paper to send to the recorder in the valley. I preached in the evening 
to A few saints in my own house. 

15 { ^ } I wrote two letters to day one to Elder W. I. Appleby or Orson Hyde & one to Jacob 
Gibson. I was glad to have the privilege of writing one more to Elder Appleby after supposing 
that He was dead from reports we had herd. This is the last day I shall spend at home for a 
season. 


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16th I aranged my business in the fore part of the day for leaving home to start on my Mission. I 
took cars in the evening & rode to Lowell & spent the night with Br Pevey on Branch st. 35 m. 

* 17th Sunday I preached to the saints in Lowell. I read A Book in the evening Called Book of 
Captives Among the Indians including Smith Captivity. He gave an interesting account of A 
sacralice offered upon to the Lord by An old Indian Chief who was nearly in a state of starvation 
& in great trouble. After purifying himself for 3 days with the best herbs He could get He goes 
before the Lord And builds An Alter lays A stone on the Alter And burns upon it all the tobaco 
He has And says O though Great Spirit I Here offer up unto thee the best thing I have, And all I 
have. And I know not when I shall get any more. And I now pray thee to hear my prayer & grant 
me my Petition which is this. Send A rain to raise this river two feet & a half that my Canoe can 
go into the Lake (Erie) so I can meet my brethren. Give me one Bear 2 Beaver, & 3 Coones. The 
Lord Herd his prayer & granted his request in all things. A rain came, the river rose 2 1/2 feet 
that night, He killed A bear 2 Beaver & 3 Coones. 

How much the sacrafice of this Indian Chief was like the offerings of Ancient Israel. This 
Exhample should teach even the Latter Day Saints A lesson. Let them offer their sacrafices as did 
this Indians And their prayers will be herd And Answered. 

18th Took cars. Rode to Portland. Called upon Ilus and Ezra & there families. I went over Ezra 
Carters House from top to bottom. It was A new House And probably furnished in the best stile 
of any house in Portland. I rode to Scarboro in the Evening with Fabyan And spent the night at 
Father Carters. Distance 110 m. 

19th I went out fishing with Fabyan & Ilus. We made A good Cho[wder] for dinner at the point 
we caught 50 skullipins 50 flounders 3 Cod and 4 Eels 2 conners & reached home weary. I spent 
the night at sister Foss. 10 m. 

20th I road to Portland. Took supper with Ilus. I got the New York Herrald which was full of 
News. The Cholera was making its ravag[es] throughout North America Containing An account 
of the death of President Pole I took boat at 9 oclok for Thom-aston. I left several buildings on 
fire in Portland when the boat started. 10 m. 

21st I landed At Thomaston at 4 oclok And Called upon Benjamin Knowlton. I was quite unwell. 
Had a severe Attack of the Diarhea. I had an interview with Br John Luce. I spent the night with 
Mr Knowlton. Distance 100 m. 

22d I am sick this morning. Taken cold. Went to John Luce and w[e heard?] A man by the name 
of W. Whiman Hilman. He felt that He was called to preached the Gospel And the Baptist 
[church] to which he belonged would not let him preach And He was much troubled about it. 

In the Afternoon in company with Br Luce And Br Stone I crossed the bay to North Fox Island. 
When we left Thomaston the Thermometer stood at 1 10 in the shade & 132 in the sun. It seems 
as though all would die. I spent the night with Br Nehamiah Stone on North Vinal Haven. 13 


Page286 




miles. 


23d It is an exceding Hot day as was yesterday. Twelve years ago I brought the Gospel to this 
Island in company with Jonathan H. Hale. I spent A year upon this Island And Baptized near A 
Hundred persons And took about 60 persons with me & my family to Quincy. I found the Saints 
fleeing before their persecuters out of Missouri And settelled in 111. Since I was upon this Island 
before, I have Crossed the Atlantic four times and traveled in all about 50,000 miles And I now 
find myself treading this soil again to visit the few remaining Saints that they may be gatherd to 
Zion. 

24th Sunday I Preached to A full House at 5 oclok and spent the night at David Mullin. I found 
12 members of the Church on this Island. 

25th * A rainy morning. Brother Stone set us across the Channel in a boat to the South Island. 

We walked 4 miles & stoped at Br Josiah Pearce & spent the night. I called upon his Father 
Thomas Pearce 78 years old. Mother Pearce was also 78 years old this day. Both are members of 
the Church and strong in the faith. I had a good time with them. 

I called upon Governor Brown who warned [me] off the Island when I was Here 10 years since 
But afterwards was Baptized And since Cut off from the Church. I went with him & Br Pearce to 
the Grave yard near Br Browns House. Visited Br John Herretts Grave. A stone was put up at the 
Head of it about one foot High from the ground A rough square granit stone. The grave Joining it 
on the North had A stone of the same size with A Hollow on the top And A seam through the 
middle of it which would be readily found. It stands in the following order: {North J H} {South}. 
I picked up some pebbles from his grave to preserve in memory of him. [6?] m. 

26 I went out fishing with Br Luce & Pearoe in A 24 ton bark 6 m. We fished in 30 fathoms 
water 25 Codfish some would weigh [2?]0 lbs. 50 large Haddock 5 Hake & got back to the 
House at 10 oclok. I was quite sea sick going in strained my side & stomach & vomited some 
blood. I preached to A House full at Br Pierce at 4 oclok. Spoke 2 Hours. Had the spirit of the 
Lord upon me & spoke vary plain to the people. There had been many baptized upon this Island 
but were now all broaken up. Some gone west some Apostitized & some dead. 16 still profess to 
have A standing in the Church. 

27th I was sick this morning. Have taken cold. Settelled in my side. In the Afternoon I crossed 
the bay to Camden with Br Pearce & Luce. Called upon sister Glover. Took tea & walked to 
Goose River. Spent 2 Hours with Br Henry Mullen who was at work on a ship. We went to Mr 
Paul Perrys who was friendly & spent the night. 15 m. 

28th Walked to East Thomaston. Called at John Luce & wrote A Letter to Mrs W Woodruff in 
the Afternoon we went up to Mr Peas to Hold A Meeting And his own sons rose up & swore they 
would not admit of it. They finally ruled the Houshold instead of the Father & we had no 
meeting. It seemed as though the Devil Stired up the people in Thomas-ton as soon as I went into 
it. 


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I had a long talk with Mr Hilman who had his mind exercised about preaching. I gave him some 
council. I called upon Mr Colby & Lady which I found to be a Noble pair. I spent the night with 
BrLuce. 10 m. 

29th A rainy day. I visited Mr Colby Peas MCCallister Knowlton & spent the night with Br Luce. 

30th In company with Br Luce I rode to Brother Wm. H. Wilson South St George. I spent the 
night with him. 20 mi. 

I read the New York Sun which reports 100 & 126 deaths da[ily?] In St Louis by Cholera & 100 
deaths in Cincinnati. 

* 


July 

July 1st Sunday I Preached to the saints at Turkey Cove of Elder Wm H Wilsons. He informed 
me that John Hopper still holds all the property belonging to the Heirs of Nathaniel Turner three 
in Number viz Nathaniel Rebecca & David Turner. John Hopper gave a recept to Nathaniel 
Turner for all the property put into his hands. The Above Named Child should have a Guardean 
chosen who should hold those recepts if they can be found & come down & settle it & collect the 
money which can be obtained on presenting the recepts which amounts to about $600. 

We rode to Thomaston. I spent the night at Br Knowlton. John Luce was sick. I administered to 
him. 16 m. 

2d John Luce is quite sick to day. I anointed him with Oil. Administered to him by prayer & the 
laying on of Hands. 

3d I took steemer. Rode to Bangor. Spent the night at the House of Elder David Gibson on 3d 
street. She infonn[ed] me that ie sister Gibson that Elder Gibson had gone to Calafornia gold 
dig-ings & that she And another female were the ownly saints in the place. I do not think they 
had much faith for they wore my patience out in Asking Questions upon subjects wharein was 
No profit. I went to bed sick. 50. 

4th July Great Preparations are making to celebrate Independance at Bangor & Thomaston. 500 
came on to the steemer this morning [to] Go to Thomaston. One company dressed up like Negros 
in disguise in evry shape & form imaginable Marched on to the bank as we were about leaving 
on board of a steemer for Thomaston. In all places as we passed along cannon were fired in 
honor of the 4th. 

A Table was set at Thomaston for 800 men to take dinner But I should feel more like fasting & 
praying on the 4th of July than making A display of Celebration untill the Latter Day saints And 
all people could Have the privilege of worshiping God according to the dictates of their own 
conscience without having there brains blown out for it. And now while I write A Company is 


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passing my door in the street dressed in all the Horid form that the ingenuity of man could form 
up. One would suppose that the inhabitants of the bottomless pit had come forth in possession. I 
wrote a letter to Mrs. Woodruff. 50 m. } 

5th I Baptized Mr Priom Pease which made some stir among people. I dined with Brother Peas. 
Spent the Afternoon with Knowlton & night with John Luce. 

6th It is A Hard rainy day. I seem to be weather bound in Thomaston. Am waiting for Passage to 
New Brunswick. 

I found 8 members of the Church in South St George 7 in Thomaston. } I wrote two letters one to 
Little & Hardy one to J. Gibson. 

7th I took passage on board of the schooner Cashier capt Eligab S Blaisdell & Capt Archibal 
Spear, & Mr Sterrett, Cook and myself composed all on board bound for Macbias. We run with a 
fair wind as far as Musketoe Harbor & put in & spent the night as it was foggy & we could not 
run. 60 m. 

8th Sunday Foggy. I lay in Harbor all day. Staid on bord. The rest went to Meeting. 

9th Still foggy all day. No wind. Lay in Harbor. Capt Spear lay in Harbor & caught 20 lobsters. I 
took Cold. Settelled on my lungs & made me sick side & breast sore & lame. We walked out & 
picked 2 quarts of strawburies & had A feast of them. 

10th Still foggy. I preached in the afternoon to the people at winter Harbor. 

1 1th Spent the day in the harbor. No wind to get out. 

12 Still foggy. I went onto the Mountain with the capt. A light Breeze came up. We went to the 
ship. Sailed out of the harbor. A dead Calm & fog came on & tide carried us back into the Harbor 
again. 

I Had Conversation with Capt Bieford who gets his living by whaleing in this bay. He has Caught 
3 this season. He is the ownly person carrying on the whaleing business in this country. 

13th No wind. We are all getting about discouraged. We have now been 5 days confined in this 
Harbor. I caught 2 skates the first I ever saw. We beat out of the Harbor 3 [8?] times during the 
night. Wind would die away & we would flote back again into the Harbor. So in the morning we 
found our selves in the same place we started from. The capt was discouraged & went to bed. A 
light breeze arose & we labored hard & got out. We then got a Breeze from the south west & left 
the harbor for good whare we had been confined for a week. We had a good run through the day 
& entered Macbias port at 10 oclok at night. 60 mile. 

14th Wind Dead ahead. We beat up the river. Got to the town of Macbias at 5 oclok. After 
spending a few moments on Shore I went to the wharf & went on board of a 5 ton schooner John 
Eldridge capt & owner. We started for Beaver Harbor in Penfield. We had a good run & breeze 


Page289 




all night. Distance from Machias port to the Town 7 miles And vary Crooked. 7 m. 

15th Sunday We arived in beaver Harbor at 8 oclok. Distance 60 m. I slept on board of the little 
Craft. I spent the day with Mr Eldridge. } I wrote A letter to Mrs Woodruff. 

16th I left Mr Eldridge & shouldered my travelling bag & walked and walked 7 miles to M C 
Cor-rells & waited 3 Hours for the Stage to go to St Johns. When it came along it was loaded 
down & Could not take me. 

Here I was 42 miles from St Johns on foot & no Conveyance with A Heavy travelling bag with A 
vast burning forest to go through. I did not stop to meditate or complain of my situation but 
swung my carpet bag over my shoulder again & started on my journey on foot in good spirits. 
Most of the road was through dens forest rocky & poor soil. Many parts of the forest was 
inhabited by bears & wolves. 

After travelling a few miles I overtook an Irishman on foot. We walked together several miles. A 
man Came in a waggon & took my bag & Carried it 4 miles for me to Mr McGowins which was 
great relief to me. On my Arival at McGowens I found my bag safe & got a Chance to send [it] 
on 15 miles further to Mr Tiltons, & was glad to get rid of the load if I had to walk myself. I took 
dinner here the Irishman left. I saw no more of him. I had now walked about 20 miles at 1 oclok 
besides waiting 3 hours for The stage. I had 15 m more to walk before I Could stop for the night. 

I found the whole forest as I came along laid waste by the late fires which swept fences, 
dwellings, bams, Mills, lumber yard & evry thing els in its march & but few dwellings 
remaining. Although I began to be vary weary & lame yet I entered the dark forest before me And 
I found my last 15 miles A sore dreary road indeed. And it seemed as though I could not get 
through. 

And when I did arive at Mr Tiltons I was so lame I could scearcely walk at all & was under the 
Necessity of going to bed without my supper. I washed myself in Cold water from Head to foot 
to take the soreness out of my cords & limbs & went to bed but was to weary to sleep much. I 
had walked this day 35 mA thing I had not done before in 10 years. 

171 arose this morning vary lame from yesterdays walk. I have 15 miles to reach St Johns. I 
walked one mile & found A Merchant Mr Beaty who gave me a ride with him into the City of St 
Johns which I Considerd A great Blessings. I found St John to be A plesant business place 
esspecially for Mills & Lumber. The whole face of the Earth that I saw from Fox Islands to St 
Johns was vary rocky barren & rough, timber mostly spruice & ceder. 

A few days before I arived at St Johns the Orange men of that City had a walk. Were attacked by 
the Catholicks. A fight ensued. 20 or so were killed & many wounded. I went onto the seene of 
Action. Saw the ball & shot Holes in the doors & windows & buildings as we passed along. This 
was in the edge of the burnt district. There has been some vary destructive fires in that City. 

I spent 2 Hours here then went to Indian town. Went on board of the Forest Queen steemer bound 


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for Frederickton 90 miles up the St Johns River. It was quite A rainy windy Afternoon yet I 
walked the Herricane deck to view the Country. For the seene had now Change from A vary 
rough Country to A delightful plesant one. For the whole Country for several miles each side of 
the river from St Johns to Frederickton was in a high state of cultivation & settelled. More 
resembled the farms of Illinois then the barren Hilly, rocky Country which I have before visited 
in the Colonies. I never saw 90 miles on the bank of any river more beautifully Cultivated or 
plesantly located than the St Johns River. It is quite A stream for fish. I saw the Salmon & 
Sturgeon jumping out of water as we went up the river. 

We arived at Frederickton at 8 oclok. I put up at the temperance Hotel in York street. Distance of 
the day 115 miles. 

18th I learned this morning I could not go to Miramichi untill the 20th. I walked into the City to 
try to get some New York papers to read. I called upon the Hon Mr Partlow M. P. who loaned me 
the New York Journal of Commerce which I read with much interest. I then walked through the 
City & found it to be a delightful situation upon the bank of the river. Location level with all of 
the streets runing west tenninating 2 or 3 miles west of the City upon a High Mountain with a 
gradual ascent. 

I saw a company of 24 Soldiers excercise by fireing musket balls at a target. Some 500 balls were 
fired at some 20 or 25 rods. About 5 of them Hit A board twice the size of a man. Some Half 
dozen hit the bulls eye 8 inch in diameter. The balls fell into the St Johns river some half a mile 
distant. 

I visited the grave yard And A large Cathedral building. I learned from the papers that there had 
been 1,300 deaths in one week in Cincinnati & about the same No in St Louis. I Attended A 
Prysbeterian meeting. The priest sprinkled A Child & Called it baptism. It was an abomination in 
the sight of God. 

19th I learned from the New York papers of the 1 1 & 12 instant that there had died in St Louis in 
10 weeks from 7 May to July 9th 4,321 by Cholera 2,688 Pop 45,000. July 10 died 190. Also 100 
deaths daily at Cincinnati. 

} I wrote A letter to Orson Pratt. 

20 This Morning I make my first trial of taking A stage passage in New Brunswick. We Crossed 
the river in a ferry & prepared the Stage for a start which was as follows: One pair of Horses was 
put onto an open two Horse waggon with the Mail, driver, & two passengers. A progection run 
out back of the wagon 4 feet. Upon this stood A large carpenters Chest And trunks. A second 
waggon was brought up & the tongue made fast to the reach of the first waggon. This was loaded 
with wool & boxes both loaded waggons to be drawn by one pair of Horses. In this way we 
started to go 100 miles through A Hilly rough country to travel day & night. 

I did not see what way one pair of Horses was going to travel with any speed with such a train of 


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Lumber behind them but I soon found out. For as soon as we come to the top of A Hill the 
Horses could not Hold the waggons And of Course they went down the Hill upon A keen run as 
fast as there legs Could carry them & continued to run untill they got part of the way up the next 
Hill. In this way we got along vary fast. We Changed Horses evry 20 miles. We travelled in this 
way the whole rout. 

21st I find myself this morning sitting in the open stage with the Horses runing down all the Hills 
at full speed with the driver snoreing & fast asleep And continued untill sun was two hours high. 
We came within a foot of running the waggon off a precepice 30 feet deep which would have 
dashed us to peases among the rocks. The driver awoke & when He saw the danger He had run 
he turned pale but was soon asleep again. We continued Journeying in this way for 100 miles & 
arived at the ferry of the Beau-baurs Island whare we arived at 10 oclock whare I left the Stage 
feeling vary thankful that my bones were whole & my life preserved. 

I crossed the ferry to the Island. Walked one mile through A plesant grove to the House of Elder 
Joseph Russels. I found Him at home & we had A Happy Greeting indeed. I was thankful to 
strike Hands with & to see a latter Day Saint after travelling two weeks without seeing any 
Saints. I found Sister Russell also a vary kind sister & Mother. After visiting his ship yard & 
looking about I went to bed & had a good nights sleep. Distance from Frederick to Miramichi 
100 m. 

22d Sunday [] I recieved A letter on my arival here from Br Cannon. I was quite unwell this 
morning. I found Elder Joseph Russell located upon An Island Called Beaubars Island situated at 
the Junktion of the two branches of the Miramichi River 7 miles Above Chatham. The Island is 1 
1/4 miles in length half a mile wide. Brother Russels has owned the whole of the Island for 
Eleven years during which time He has built 23 Ships upon it with an averaged tonage of 650 
tons each. His location land & improvements at a low rate would be worth $30,000 dollars 
besides 3 ships on hand. He is now Calculating to sell on the 5 Nov at some price or other settle 
his business & go to the valley & settle with the Saints. The Island is A vary beautiful & ples-ant 
situation. A good location for ship building in the centre of the river which abounds with Salmon 
Mackerell Harrau shad & other fish in the season thereof. 

Br Russell was also A presiding Elder over A small branch of the Church of L.D.S on the Island. 
He had A Chapel in his own house. I met with him on this Sunday morning. I was much edifyed 
with his teachings & pleased with the order He had carried out in his meetings & family circle & 
also in all his temporal business. I met with them in the Afternoon & spoke to them from these 
words: Surly the Lord God will do nothing but Be revealeth his secrets to his servants the 
prophets. I was quite unwell. 

23d I rode with Brother & sister Russell to Chatham & Called upon His son George H. Russell. 
He recieved me vary kindly. A Preacher of the Congregational Church called & opposed Br 
Russel in his Religion but Br Russell used him up & He went away. We returned back in the 
evening to Br Russells & spent the night. 14 m. 


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I walked out in the evening to visit Br Russell Burying ground for His family. It was surrounded 
by A Cluster of tall pine trees. It Contained the bodies of 7 Children 2 sons & 5 daughters viz 
James & Thomas Elizabeth, Jennett, Agness & two infants the Sons & Daughters of Joseph & 
Agness Russell. All died in infancy & Childhood except Thomas who was 22 years of Age. He 
was holding the office of A priest in the Church of Jesus Christ of L.D.S. & Died strong in the 
faith. These seven bodies were taken from the various places whare they were buried And all laid 
together upon this Island And surrounded by a wall of solid mason work 12 feet square 7 feet 
high with a Cope stone. 

I recieved [] A letter from Br Gibson giving me News of the Epistle of the Twelve that the 
Quorum of the Twelve was fdled up with the following persons: Lorenzo & Erastus Snow, 
Charles C. Rich, And Franklin D. Richards, were Appointed to fill the Quorum. They are all 
indeed excellent men. A better Choice Could not have been made. I was also informed that Capt 
Dan Jones had lost 50 of his men Company with the Cholera from St Josephs to the bluffs And 
that the Cholera was raging at St Louis And some of the Saints had fallen. 

24th } I wrote A letter to Mrs Woodruff. Also finished the Letter to O Pratt & Mailed them. I 
recieved the European Times giving an account of the wars of Europe. Also A Collision between 
the Steemer Europe & A ship from Boston. The Boston Ship sunk in 4 minutes 134 lives lost. Br 
Russell got a letter from Capt McFerson saying that 200 of the welsh saints & 100 of the English 
died of Cholera on the way to the bluffs but I think it is exagerated from the Accounts I get from 
the west I do not think one half that No is dead. 

/ ^ ? July 24th A great Celebration in the City of the Great Salt Lake. A liberty pole erected 104 
feet high, with A flag or ensign 60 feet long. 7,000 feast at 2 tables 1 1/2 miles long./ 

25 I walked with Elder Russell to New Castle & back. I walked through the Island. It was A vary 
hot day. 8 m. 

26 I Addressed the people at Br Russells upon our Journey to Calafornia the location of the 
Saints &c City of the Salt Lake. 

27th I attended A Prayer meeting at Brother Russel. I addressed them at The Close of the 
meeting I baptized Archibal Russell son of Joseph Russell. I confirmed him. We then went onto 
the burying ground Containing the family of Br Russell which was enclosed with A wall of 
mason work as spoken of before And by the request of Brother Russell we knelt before the Lord 
& dedicated & Consecrated it unto the Lord with prayer. We returned to the House And spent 
some time in Conversation. I then went to rest. 

28th I took the parting hand with Sister Russell & the Saints And in company with Elder Joseph 
Russel And his son George H. Russell we left the Island to go to Bedeque. I felt greatly blest 
while on this Island. I recieved great kindness from Brother & Sister Russell who are Israelites 
indeed & full of faith & good works. Our hearts were knit together and I felt it good to be under 


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their roof & in their society. I shall long remeber my visit with them. 

We rode to Chatham. We have parted with George H Russell. We took stage & Br Russell & 
myself started on our journey for Bedeque. We rode through Ketchmaquack Rushabueto 
Bocktoosh Cookhane to She-dece. Spent the night at Lemon In. I got a letter from Br Cannon. 80 
m.Q 

29 Sunday Spent the day in Shedice. Br Russel and myself attended the Church of England 
meeting. The Rector preached A Preperation sermon before the bishop confirms the Church by 
the laying on of hands. He dwelt mostly upon this subject to prove the laying on of hands to be an 
ordinance from the Apostolic Church. He run down the Presbyterian church & all other sects. 
They had NO authority to Preach. It was ownly pretention for them to under take it. But the 
Esstablished Church had got Authority to preach from the Ancient Apostles through the Church 
of Rome, which He also discarded. All there ceremonies were vary wearysome. We spent the 
night at the Inn. 

30th We went on board of the packet A small schooner who carried the Mail. The Capt & Hands 
were all gone when it was time for them to [cast] off. We found the schooner was aground. With 
a good deal of labour got it off several rods from the wharf. The Capt came on board & was mad 
about it. We took it back whare we started from. The Capt tryed to start out. Got her aground & 
had to lie for the next tide. So we left Shedice at 4 oclok with a good breeze & run all night. 

Nearly all on board were sick. Br Russel & myself staid on deck all night in the wind. The Capt 
slept part of the time. Finally lost his way in the night. Cast Anchor. Lay untill day light then 
found whare He was & run into the Harbor of Bedeque at sun rise. Distance across the Bend 45 
m. 

3 1 st We hired A man to carry us in a waggon 4 miles to Br Wm Maxfield. We were quite weary 
when we arived. Took some Breakfast then went to A stream near by & caught about a dozen salt 
water trout. 

In the Afternoon I met with the saints at Br John Peter Pickets. I found 22 members & 4 Priest in 
the Bedeque Branch rather in a Cold State as A Body. I preached to them the gospel & spoke of 
the signs of the times I returned back with Br Russell & we spent the night with Br Wm 
Maxfield. There is also 4 Saints in Charlottetown. 10 m. 

August 

Aug 1st A rainy day. We spent the day at Br Maxfields. I found Prince Edwards Island A 
beautiful farming country to Appearances but with all its Grand appearance the people are nearly 
in a state of Starvation. The Crops have failed for two years past And the Merchants are taking 
all the Money out of the Country. All the Colonies seem to be in a deplorible state. Hundreds of 
Miles of the Country has been burned over this year with fire sweeping many millions of acres of 
forest farms fences barns dwellings Mills Lumber & Lumber yards. And in some instances the 


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inhabitants have had to flee into the sea or on the beach to escape the flames. Evry branch of 
business seems to be dead. People are fleeing to the States evry possible way. 

I met with the Saints At the House of Brother Wm Max field for the purpose of organizing the 
Branch of the Church. There were present W Woodruff of the Twelve Joseph Russell Elder Wm 
Maxfield Priest. 

Conference opened by singing & prayer. Remarks from W Woodruff on the importance of the 
Organization of the branch. It was then Moved And Carried that Br Maxfield be ordained to the 
office of an Elder & preside over the branch And also that John Maxfield be ordained to the 
office of Priest. They were both ordained under the Hands of Elders Woodruff & Russell. 

Elder James Skerry who formerly presided over this branch of the Church was Accused of 
Adultery & Drunkenness. He was 42 miles distant & not present but from the abundant testimony 
of witnesses present He was Cut off from the Church by the unanimous vote of the same. 

The President then gave much useful teaching upon Emigration, meeting & family duties. Also 
gave information upon the travels of the pioneers the location of the Saints in the valley of the 
salt Lake & order of Zion. Then the saints spoke most of them. Elder Russell Addressed the 
Meeting. The President then followed for an hour. Then Blessed 5 Children Healed 2 that were 
sick. The meeting was lengthy. The President W Woodruff spoke 3 Hours or more. 

2d ^ I wrote A letter to Elder James Skerry And informed him that He was Cut off from the 
Church. Also made out the minutes of the Conference. Gave Brothers Maxfields their liscense. In 
the evening Brother Maxfields both went with us to the wharf to take the Packet back to Shedice 
at 10 oclok we parted with them. Brother Russell & myself [went?] on the packet. They hoisted 
sail & put out under A good breeze. Plesant evening. I remained on deck all night. 6 m. 

3d Calm this morning th[ere?] [is] A head wind. We had nothing to eat but a sea biscuit. We 
arived at Shedice at night. We staid at the Inn of Mr Leonoh's. On my arival at shedice [] I got 
two letters from Mrs Woodruff which had followed me to Bangor, Merimichi, & to this place. 
These are the ownly letters I have had from Her since I left home. I was truly glad to hear from 
my family. 

4th I spent the day at shadice with Br Russell. 

5th Sunday A Hard rainy morning. I took the parting hand this Morning with Brother Joseph 
Russell. He is truly A man of faith & great kindness. We have had an interesting time to gether. 
When we parted He gave me A suit of New Clothes & other presents paid all my expenses while 
together & gave me money to help me home. May the Lord bless him & reward him fourfold. 

I took the open stage & rode to the bend. Both Shedice & the bend are small villages. The ownly 
busines ther seems to be going on in this region of country for many miles is getting out 
[Hetmatee?] knees to send to Boston & New York for building ships in the states but they are 
making a great mistake in this thing in the commencement of the trade by cutting them in the 


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summer season instead of fall or winter. For those Cut in the summer season will not keep over 
three years for in that time all the gum will work out & dry rot will follow & they become as light 
as A Cork. And any ship or Steem boat will be ruined whare they are used, while those Cut from 
Sept to March will last 40 or more years, retain the gum & be sound. This is important 
information which I recieved from Joseph Russell who in 20 years has built over 40 ships over 
600 ton burthan. I spent the night at an Inn at the bend. 15. 

6th I spent the day at the Bend. We went on board of the Steemer at night & slept on board 
expecting to go out at High tide but it was so foggy she could not get out. 

7th We are still at the bend. The tide Here rises & falls about 50 feet each tide. At the turn of the 
tide it comes in with a great swell [reach?] from 7 to 10 feet deep. It is called the bore. It often 
destroys ships when they are in the bore. This is the reason why boats cannot go out & in bore 
rivers ownly at High tides. The bore came in to day at half past 1 1 oclok & we all left the bend on 
board of the Steemer at 2 oclok & rode all day & night. 

8th We arived at St Johns at 6 oclok this morning & stoped at Mr Reads boarding House. I went 
about the City some & spent part of the time writing. I wrote one Letter to Ezra Carter jr. at [ ]. 

:]■ Distance from the bend to St Johns. 110 miles. 

Receipt for the Erysipelas. Put on the swelling rye flour (but no other flour). Put no wet 
applications upon it except a little linsed oil for the dry flour to stick to. 

9th I went on board of the fairry Queen at 8 oclok. I took deck passage. We left St John at 9 
oclok for Portland. It was quite rough through the day. We got to Eastport at 2 oclok. I went on 
shore. The boat Stoped 10 minutes. It was vary rough And A storm through the evening & night. 
Nearly all were sick on board. I took care of a family of 5 small Children all sick at a time with 
there Mother untill 2 oclok at Night. I was then taken sick & had to leave them. I was vary sick 
the latter part of the night. 

10th ? It was vary rough all through the day. I suffered much with sickness. We landed at 
Portland at 1 oclok. I was sick. I Called upon Ilus F Carter. Took tea. I then went to the cars to go 
to Boston. I there found sister Sarah B Foss going with the same train to my house. It rained all 
the way. I was still sick. Went to Boston at 8 oclok. Took cab to Brattle street & omnibus to my 
House. My family were all in bed. Mrs Woodruff arose & were glad to recieve us home. Distance 
from St Johns to Boston 500 miles. 

1 1th I was still vary sick through the day confined to my bed. 

12th Sunday I am still vary feeble. I had a family meeting. Also met with the Church in the 
Afternoon & spoke to them. 

Aug 13th { ^ *} I this day looked over my letters & papers sent to me in my Absense during 
last two months And I find I have recieved the following viz 15 Letters from the following 
persons: G. J. Hardy, John Druce H Felt, Albard, J. Cowden, Mary Ann Pratt, Bathsheba W. 


Page296 




Smith, John Benbow Thomas Cartwright, James Burgess 2, Joseph Grover Sarah B Foss 2, Jacob 
Gibson 2. Brother Benbow informed me in his letter that Father Woodruff was well & living 
with James Ferguson. 

I Also recieved 5 Numbers of the Millennial Star filled with good news of the progress of the 
work of the Lord in the British Isles. I also recieved the 10 & 12 No's of the Frontier Guardian 
Also containing good News. Also 8 No of the New York weekly Herald containing the general 
political commercial & National News of the world. 

14th [] I recieved 3 letters from Ezra Carter A.D. Boynton And A long letter of 5 full sheets from 
Elder Allexander Badlam who has arived at San Francisco U. Calafomia. He had met with 
Samuel Brannon. He had not Commenced getting gold but wrote with a good spirit. Was 100 
days from Boston to Francisco. 

15th I spent the day writing. 

16th } } I wrote 6 Letters to the following persons: Orson Hyde Jacob Gibson, I F Carter, John 
Druce, Josiah G Hardy A.D. Boynton. 

17th I spent the day at home writing. 

18th I spent the day at home writing. 

19th Sunday Br Bird was vary sick to day. I spoke to the saints & was followed by others. 

20th I rode with Br Page 18 miles. Spent a little time fishing in a River. Caught 4 Pickerell & 
went home. 36 mi. [] I recieved A letter from Br Thomas Cartwright & A Frontier Guardian. 

21 st } I wrote A letter to Thomas Cartwright. 

22d } } I wrot A full letter of foolscap to Elder Allexander Badlam to send by Steemer. 

23d I had a severe Attact of Bowel Complaint. Was quite unwell. 

24th } I wrote 2 letters to Joseph Russell & Freedom Moulton. 

25th [] } I recieved A letter from Br Wm Low & wrote one to him in return. The papers say that 
there is fifty two thousand Jews in the Hungarian Army fighting against Austry & Russia. Also 
that A desease has appeared in the Russian Army that is Called the lice itch. It appears like lice or 
maggots. Appears under the skin in the flesh And they soon become a mass of corruption & die 
in great misery. None are cured. 

A Revelation in the Doctrin & Covenants says Among the Judgments of the Last days the flies 
should bite the bodies of man & magots should Come in there flesh. There flesh fall from there 
bones & eyes from there sockets. 

26th Sunday I met with the saints & spoke to them & was followed by others. Sister Foss & Br 


Page297 




Nickerson spent the evening with us. 

27th } I wrote 3 letters to Little & Hardy J & S. Hardy to A.D. Boynton. 

28th [] } I recieved two letters [from] Josiah G. Hardy & John Druce. I wrote two letters to J & S 
Hardy & Leonard Hardy. There is several Cases of Cholera around us. 4 died out of one family in 
the same street we are in. 

29th :]■ I recieved two letters from Wm. Lowe & John Johnson. 

30th } I wrote two letters to Wm. Lowe & John Johnson. 

3 1st I spent the day at home writing. 


September 

Sept 1st I took Cars & rode to Fall River. Spent the night at Br Lowe. Distance [5?]3 m. 

2d Sunday I met with the Fall River Branch of the Saints & set all day to settle A difficulty. And 
I herd it untill my head heart & brains Aked. It lasted untill night. 

3d I spent the day visiting Fall River And Preached to the Saints at night & had a good time. 

4th I rode to New Bedford And Preached at night & organized the Branch. Appointed or 
Confirmed Elder Joseph Crapo to Preside Elder Cory Councellor. 18. 

5 I took Cars & returned to Boston & Cambridgeport. 50. [] I spent the night at home. I recieved 2 
letters from J. G. Hardy & Shuah C Moulton. 

6th [] I recieved A Letter from J Gibson. 

7th :]■ I wrote a letter to Orson Hyde And walked into Boston. Sister Mary Ann Pratt & family 
Called upon me & spent the night. 

8th I spent the day at home. At night there was A fire & several buildings burned up near by us. 
The last European arival informs us that the Hungarians have fallen beyound redemption. There 
Armies have been defeated & surrendered to the Russians and Austrians. 

9th Sunday I preached to the saints & had a good time. I Ordained Brother [ ] Delin A native of 

Sweeden to the Office of an Elder. I walked with Mrs Woodruff through Boston Common & saw 
the water spout near 100 feet into the Air. We took tea at Mr Websters & returned Home. 

10th } I wrote 3 letters to Josiah G Hardy Leonard Hardy & Mrs Hartford. Elder Sweat Called 
upon me & spent the night. 

1 1th ^ I wrote two Letters to Nathan & Thomas F. Eldridge & John Luce care of Benjamin 
Knowlton. Brother Sweat left for home to day. Brother Boynton & Richery took tea with me. 


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12th } I wrote two letters one to Allexander Badlam & one to Calvin I Foss of San Francisco sent 
by Brother Baldwin. Sister Baldwin was attacked at our house this morning with sum thing like 
the Cholera. We laid Hands upon her & rebuked the desease & she was healed almost instantly. 
Got up dressed herself eat breakfast & went in to Boston. 

13th I rode to Brighton with Br Page. The first time I was ever in Briton on Market day. I 
recieved one letter [from] A J Cowden [] 17 m. 

14th :]■ I wrote one letter to Albert J Cowden & recieved one from L W Hardy. 

15th In company with Mrs Woodruff two Children Phebe & Susan & Rhoda & Phebe Foss I left 
Boston on the Cars Also in company with Leonard Hardy & rode to Bradford. Was there met by 
Mansel Hardy who took us all home in a waggon to Brother Samuel Hardys whare we spent the 
night. 30 m. 

16th Sunday I met with the Bradford Branch of the Church And Preached to A full House. Was 
followed by several others. We had a good Meeting. We had A Church meeting in the Afternoon 
And settelled a little difficulty. I spent the night in company with Elder Josiah Hardy. 

17th It was a cloudy day. I went & gatherd some herbs in the fore part of the day And went to 
fishing in the Afternoon. We caught 20 Pickerell & about the same Number of other fish. 

18th * This was the day set Apart by the Bradford branch of the Church to have there Annual 
plum Island ride. I had been invited with my family to Join them on this occasion. It proved to be 
A pleasant day. We Assembled in the Morning at 1/2 8 oclok at Mr Burbanks whare we formed 
our procession consisting of 18 Carriages Containing 78 persons. Mr Burbank being the oldest 
Man He led the company. Was followed by Wilford Woodruff. While on the way they were 
overtaken by 25 persons drawn in the Bonny Boat by 6 cream Coloured Horses who headed our 
Company as we went into Newburyport. We spent 15 minutes there then proceded on to plum 
Island being 15 miles from Mr Burbanks. 

On our Arival at the Island we went into A romantic valley surrounded by hills of sand And plum 
bushes. A spot of half an Acre in the centre of the valley was well coverd with nice grass. 

Around this spot we formed our Carell of Carriges, upon the green grass the females spread there 
table cloths And loaded them with evry dainty of meats, pies, cakes, fruits & vegitables that heart 
could wish. 

The ground Having been previously dedicated by the Saints, Elder W. Woodruff was seated at 
the head of the table And Asked a Blessing upon the food & bounties of the Earth which were 
spread before us. After which All feasted with glad hearts & Cheerful countenanes. We then all 
walked to sea shore & spent An hour. 

We then returned Home via Newburyport & Georgetown Co[....] whare each man returned to 
their homes. It was indeed A vary plesant ride & visit. All past off without Accident & in love & 


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good order. I spent the night with my family at Samuel Hardys. Distance 30 m. 

19th We went to the pond fishing the fore part of the day. Caught 15 Pickerell some 25 other 
fish. So we had a feast of fresh fish for our dinner. I had a good meeting with the saints in the 
evening. I spoke lengthy & was followed by the brethren. 

20th I took the parting hand with the Saints also my family & we all Felt that we had never 
enjoyed A better visit with the saints in Bradford. We took [ ] to Boston & spent the night at 

home. 30 m. 

21st [] I recieved one letter from Sister Shuah Moulton. 

22d [] I recieved one letter from Br West. 

23d j: Was nearly sick with A Cold. I met with the saints & preached one hour from Jer 30 ch 2 1 
vers "And there Nobles shall be of themselves And their Governor shall procede out of the midst 
of them." After speaking of the fulfillment of Prophecy in connexion with the progress of the 
Church & Kingdom in the present dispensation I read to them the following Paragraph from the 
Epistle of the Twelve recorded in the XI vol. No. 16 Page 247 of the Millennial Star as follows: 
"Monday March 12th The Election Came off to day and resulted in the unanimous choice of 
Brigham Young as Governor, Willard Richards Secretary, N. K. Whitney Treasurer, H C 
Kimball Chief Justice, John Tailor and N. K. Whitney Associate Judges, Daniel H. Wells 
Attorney General Horace Eldridge Marshall, Albert Carrington Assessor and Collector Joseph L 
Heywood surveyor of Highways And the Bishops of the several wards as magistrates." 

In one sens of the word I had the fulfillment of my text before me. It is highly interesting to see 
the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints Progressing And Continually fulfilling the 
Ancient Prophecies As recorded in the Bible & Book of Mormon. The late news from the valley 
informs us that 15,000 of the emigration after gold have passed through the valley and 3,000 
have stoped to winter in the valley and many have Joined the Church. An Iron foundery is about 
to be esstablished in the valley & workman in that Branch of business are loudly Called for from 
abroad. Crops and health are both good in the place. 

Addison Pratt is about to return to the Islands & take several with him. Amasa Lyman has gone 
to the valley of the Sacramento. P. P. Pratt is expecting to go to South America. 

The revolutions of the Nations of the Earth during the past season have been interesting. The 
following is a synopsis of the movements during the summer of 49: The Romans arose in mass 
drove the Pope from his Throne & kingdom & he Had to seek protection in foreign Countries. 
The President of France Louis Napolian sent An army to Rome to subdue the people & reinstate 
the Pope And after much hard fighting, they entered Rome & took Command of the City. The 
Hungarians arose & Proclaimed there Inde-pendance raised large Annies & would have subdued 
Austria Had not Russia sent out her Mighty Annies Against her. And After many thousands of 
the Allied Annies of Austria & Russia were slain by the Brave Hungarians they the Hungarians 


Page300 




were overpowerd or Gen Georgey Surrendered his Annies & Louis Kossuth the President And 
main spring of Hungary left the Nation & went to Turkey. Jennany has Also been in an 
unsettelled state And within a few days past the French Minister at Washington has been 
dismissed & his Passports offered him & He is invited to return home. Also High words have 
passed between the American & British Ministers And what the result of these things will be 
time must determine. 

But one thing is certain. Wars & dreadful Judgments Await the Nations of the Earth. The 
destroying Angel in the form of the Cholera has slain its tens of thousands during the past 
seasons both in Europe & America. 

24th } } I wrote 5 Letters to day to James Burgess, Solomon Mack, Merrill C. Pevey, Joseph 
Crapo, And Wm. Carpenter Esq. for Wm Page. I invited the two Brother Peveys at Lowell to 
Emigrate next spring to the valley to work in the Iron Foundery. 

25th I dug my small crop of potatoes to day in my garden. I had A little over A Bushel. Sister 
Shuah Moulton arived at our House at night to pay us A visit. She is Mrs W. Sister. 

25th In company with Sister Moulton we visited Mount Auburn & went well over it. Br Cannon 
Called upon me in the evening & informed me that Br Bum-hisel had arived in Boston from the 
Salt Lake City. 

26th } I wrote A letter to Elder Wm Sweat. 

27th Brother John M. Bemhisel Called upon me to day And we spent several hours together & 
had a good time. I Asked him many questions Concerning the salt Lake Valley the situations of 
the saints there &c. 

28th } I wrote A foolscap sheet full to John Benbow City of the great Salt Lake great Basin 
Upper Calafomia via Chicago Desmoin & Kaneville Iowa. Paid 10 cts. 

29th Elder Burgess from Gilsom Called upon me & talked over his difficulties which He had 
lately had in that place. 

30th Sunday I met with the saints in that place Cambridgeport. Dr John M Bernhisel met with us 
& gave A rehersal of Affairs in the valley which was interesting. I followed him with remarks. 
He has Come East as A representative from the valley to Washington Bearing our petition to 
Congress for a Territorial Government, in the Great Basin of the Rocky Mountains. At the Close 
of the Meeting A Collection was taken up to defray his expenses on the way of $22.05. 

} I wrote A letter in the evening to the Bradford Branch Recommending to the Bradford Branch 
Br Burnhisel. 


October 

2^ Oct 1st } I wrote A letter to Iria Foss. Our Equinoxial Storm is upon us this morning. I 


Page301 




Attended A funeral this afternoon of Brother Stewart of Charleston who died of the Cholera after 
6 Hours sickness. He is the ownly member of the Church who has died of the Cholera in this 
country this season. 

Oct 2d 1849 {?} I recieved 4 letter from the following persons viz one from G. J. Crapo, Albert 
J. Cowden Wm. Sweat & one from the Presidency in the Great Salt Lake City viz Brigham 
Young Heber C Kimball & Willard Richard. The following is A Copy of the same: 

Great Salt Lake City July 25th 1849 
Dear Brother Woodruff 

As our mail is now making up for the States we cannot [let] so favorable an opportunity of 
Communicating to you pass unimproved. Our prospects for grain are tolerable good, & if we are 
not flooded with immigration intending for the Mines but compelled to tarry here we should have 
plenty for the ensuing year. 

Our Wheat harvest is now at its highth and is coming off far better than appearances seemed to 
warrant. The spirit of industry which has ever Characterized the saints of the Most High God has 
been brought to bear with wonderful effect upon the burning & Arid desert. The Next time that 
you encounter The hardships privation & toil of A Journey over the plains & mountains you will 
meet with a vary different reception from what attended your first arival Here. Friends will greet 
your Arival and the products of the Earth will administer to your Comfort. 

Our City and valley is fast improveing. Roads are being made & Bridges, Mills, & Houses 
building on evry side with Asstonishing rapidity Considering our Circumstances and the 
disadvantages under which we labor. But the blessings of health peace & union have attended us. 
Hence our prosperity. We have A settlement in the Utah valley & have Extended North above the 
Weber river. We have to irrigate our land which is considerable labor but will diminish as we 
improve in fixtures & experience. One thing is Certain. All the necessary products of the Earth 
for the sustinance of man can be raised. 

You have probably learned before this that we are endeavoring to obtain A legal government 
from the U.S. Dr Bemhisel is East upon this business And Brother A W Babbitt will leave 
tomorrow as our delegate to Washington. Our object is to gain admission as a Sovreign State into 
the Union. Whenever you can use your influence to further this object do so. Also gather up the 
saints & come on with all you can bring another season we shall be quite Happy to see you as 
will all your friends. 

We had yesterday a celebration of the Anniversary of the Arival of the Pioneers in this valley. It 
was A Day long to be remembered. Your Father Enjoyed it well being one of the 24 Aged 
Fathers selected as part of the Escort. For full Details of these procedings see the Frontier 
Guardian. Wishing for the Peace of Heaven to rest upon [you] your Brethren in the gospel of 
Christ. 

Brigham Young 


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Heber C Kimball 
Willard Richards 

I spent the Afternoon in Boston with Phebe W Woodruff, Shuah C Moulton Rhoda Foss & 
Andrew P Delin. I walked to the Common on to the State House And recorded my name as from 
the Great Salt Lake City. 

Oct 3d, 1849 } I wrote two letters to Albert G Cowden & Wm. Sweat. Sister Robbins Called 
upon me for Council about going west this fall. 

4th I spent the day at home writing. 

5th Dr Bumhisel spent the Afternoon with me & [we] walked through the city of Boston 
together. As He had lived with President Joseph Smith & his family for years was with him in 
prision the morning He was masacreed, our conversation turned upon the subject of his life & 
death. Among other remarks he infonned me that Brother Joseph Addressed his remarks to him 
alone when He said "I am going as A Lamb to the Slaughter. Yet I shall die with a Concience 
void of offence towards god and man. I feel as Calm as A summers morning. (And the 
expression of his Countenance showed that he was so.) "He said it will yet be said of me that He 
was murdered in Cold blood." Other remarks were made concerning the Saints building up the 
kingdom of God & there reward for so doing. 

I Parted with Brother Bumhisel & I returned home. I wrote A letter to Br J G Hardy :]■ By Brother 
Bumhisel to recommend him to them. Soon after I arived home Elders Little & Hardy called & 
spent the night with me. We conversed untill one oclok at night. 

6th I rode into Boston with Brother Little & Hardy & Page. I took Cars & rode to Milbury & 
spent the night with Elder Cyriel E Brown. A Dredful [-] gale raged through the night. 45 miles. 

* 7th Last night was A Dredful stonn. Many lives were lost at sea no doubt during the night 
which we shall hear from. It stormed vary severe through this day. 

I rode 8 miles through the stonn to meet with the saints at Northbridge to settle A Difficulty 
between Elder Sweat the presiding Elder & Elder Wade both of the Seventies. It was found on 
trial that Elder Wade was in the fault & Elder Swett was justified. I should have been justifyed in 
Cutting off Br Wade for He manifested the spirit of Aposticy & opposition to the presiding Elder. 
He said the presiding Elder Could not Cut him off, & did not think Br Woodruff Could. I was 
under the necessity of reproving him sharply for his proud, Haughty spirit & rebellion to the 
Authority of the Church. Such things are vary disagreeable to me. I have had several difficulties 
to settle of late. After meeting I rode in the rain to Br Adams took supper & spent the night. 16. 

8th [] ^ I rote A letter to the saints in Mansfield. Councelled them to be organized. I also wrote A 
letter of recommendation to Elder Sweat. I then took cars & rode to Boston & spent the night 
with my family. I also recieved A letter from Brother Solomon Mack of Guilsom. Distance 44 m. 


Page303 




9th The Papers this morning are full of accounts of the shiprecks during the storm. Among others 
the British Ship St Johns was wrecked at Cohassett & 145 lives lost. The bodies & wreck was 
washed ashore. Also many buildings & trees blown down of Boston & New York. I recieved the 
1 [.] & 1 1th No of the Guardian & A letter from Br Percy. His Child is vary sick. 

Oct 10th } [] I recieved two letters one from Brothers Marryweather & Miles & one from Brother 
Wm. Evans who was Cut off from the Church at New York. He Confesses his sins and wants to 
return to the Church. I advised him to make satisfaction to the New York Branch & come in by 
the door. I wrote two letters one to Evans & one to Jacob Gibson. I recieved also one letter from 
Br Gibson. 

During the Evening we had the Happy privilege of going down into the water of Baptism & 
administering the ordinance of Baptism to Sister Shuah C. Moulton Mrs Woodruff own sister. 
This makes another one of the family who is in the Church. Now Father & Mother Carter & four 
of his daughters are in the Church. Father Joseph Smith sen the first Patriarch of the Church 
when he gave Phebe W Woodruff her Patriarchal blessing he promised that she should have her 
Fathers Household with her in the kingdom of God. She has now one sister & three Brothers out 
of the Church And my Prayer to God is that they might yet embrace the gospel. 

1 1th ^ I wrote 3 letters to Ira Foss, Father Carter and Freedom Moulton. 

12th ? I spent the day in Boston. I called upon Brother Barnes. While I was there A man was run 
over by the rail car & killed instantly. Was cut in to. I saw the body. It was in A Horrible 
mangelled form. 

13th ;}■ \ ;}■ I wrote two letters to day one to Allexander Badlam at San Francisco & one to Orson 
Pratt of Fiverpool. I sent A Copy of the New York Herraid Weekly of Oct 13 to Orson Pratt, 
Orson Hyde, Allexander Badlam, & Joseph Russell. This Paper Contained An account of the 
Saints organizing themselves into An Independent Sovreign State called the state of Deseret And 
appointing their Govomor & other officers. Brigham Young was Elected Governor. This is 
certainly an important erie in the History of the Church & kingdom of God. 

There has been more written in the New York Herraid, Tribune, Sun, Boston papers & many 
papers in the United States in favor of the Church of Jesus Christ of Fatter Day Saints than has 
been written before for many years. The Editors of papers begin to see that the saints will 
prosper, rise up & build Zion, nowithstanding all there Efforts to crush us & destroy us from off 
the Earth, when they now find us organized into a State Government holding in our hands the 
Key of the North American Continant And that we will not die but live & rise up in the midst of 
all our oppressions they begin to speak in our favor & the world marvel at our prosperity. And 
One remarkable fact is that thousands of men who had A hand expelling us from the United 
States & drove us into the wilderness have this season while on there way to the gold digings 
have had to come bending unto the saints & have had to look to them to save them from 
starvation & death. 


Page304 




14th Sunday I had A meeting with my friends & family in the morning. I confirmed sister Shuah 
Moulton. We had a good time. 

At noon two Strangites Called upon me Mr Shem-mings And A man from Michigan. He wanted 
to debate the Claims of Mr James J Strang to lead the Church. I told him I Considered my time 
flung away to spend 5 minutes talking with him upon the subject. There had more than A dozen 
men risen up since the death of Joseph risen up to undertake to usurp Authority to lead the 
Church & govern the affairs of the kingdom of God when Neither the Lord nor the Saints had 
called them unto that office And I felt that I had sum thing of more importance to attend to than 
to spend my time in debating against the pretending Claims of such men. 

I met the saints in the afternoon & had A good meeting. 

15th I took cars in the Morning with Mrs Woodruff, Moulton & her daughter Martha. We road to 
Saco. Was there met by father Carter & Ira Foss who came to take us to Saco & Scarborough. 

We found Father Carter well & all the friends in Maine. Soon after we left the cars & started on 
the road in the waggon A Horse run away in A waggon & came on in the road after us. He run 
into a waggon with a load of Apples. An old Gentleman was driving it. One of his wheels was 
knocked all to peaces. The waggon turned down & the old Gentleman fell onto his head. And the 
Horse came near runing into Father Carters waggon. We road to Father Carters & spent the night. 
Distance of the day 110 miles. 

16th We went up to Iria Foss & spent the day & night. 

17th We had A visit from Ilus Carter. We spent the day and night at Father Carters. 

18th We spent this day at Father Carters. 

19th * We visited the Country or spot Called the land slide. It has the Appearance of A great 
Convulsion of Nature. It looks as much like the Effects of An Earthquake as any thing. More 
than 20 acres of land is all torn to peaces. Some large Maples trees are still standing upright but 
the earth has settled more than 20 feet while other parts were raised. Deep blue clay is raised 
from its deep foundation to the top of the Earth by thousands of tons. After walking over it we 
road into Portland & dined with Ilus Carter. Spent the Evening with Dr Fabyan & night with 
Ezra. 12. 

20th Freedom & Shuah Moulton came into Portland this morning. [..] Fabyan took me into his 
Carriage & Carried me over the City. We went to the observitory & saw the houses that were 
mo[bed?] of late. We dined with Ezra Carter. He will give me letters of introduction for our 
representatives from the State of Deseret to the representatives & Senators from Maine. 

At 4 oclok we parted with our friends. Ilus made me A present of some Books. We took Cars 
rode to saco & met with Olive Foss who came with us to visit her Mother in Boston whare we 
arived at 9 oclok. We took the Hourly & rode to our house & spent the night & was glad to once 


Page305 




more get home. On my [] arival home I recieved 5 letters from Dr Bemhisel Thomas Cartwright, 
Joseph Crapo, Wm Sweat & George Shipley. Also the Guardian & M. Star. 1 10. 

21st I met with the Saints At my house & preached to them from the second ch of Daniel 
Concerning the kingdom of God. We had a good Meeting. 

22d } } I wrote 5 letters to Orson Hyde, T. Cartwright George Shipley, Joseph Crapo, Brown & 
Swett. 

23d [] I recieved two letters from Joseph Russell and Mary Weather. 

24th ? f I wrote A letter to Br Joseph Russell. I felt unwell through the day. 

25th [] } I recieved A letter from John Johnson & wrote two letters one to Col Kane one to Dr 
Bernhisel. I Also recieved the 18th No of the Guardian. 

26th } I wrote A letter to John Johnson. Walked into Boston. 4. 

27th I went on board of the David Porter & sailed to Dennis on Cape Cod & spent the night with 
Mr David Robbins. 80 m. 

28th Sunday I rode to west Harwich & held A meeting with the Saints. Most of the men were out 
to sea on a Merchant fishing voyage. I spent the night with Br Horace Humphry. 

29th The brethren came in with there cargoes of fish to day. They gave me A Barrel of fat 
Mackerell to take home. I spent the day with them. At night they went out again at night. 

30 I spent the day among the Saints. I administered unto two who were sick. 

311 rode to David Robbins & spent the night. 8 mil. 

November 

Nov 1 & 2d I spent two days at Mr Robbins waiting for the Packet to sail. I Administered by the 
laying on of Hands & prayer to An aged Sister 84 years old. She immediately arose from her bed 
& commenced washing some small articles. I preached at night at her house. 

3d I went on board of the Packet at 1 oclok set sail & arived in Boston Harbor at 2 oclok at night. 
60. 

4th Sunday I preached at my own hiered house. 

5th [] I recieved 2 letters from Low & Day And many papers. 

6th } I wrote A letter to N. H. Felt of St Louis. 

7th I spent the day at home reading. 


Page306 




8th } I wrote A long letter to Azubah Woodruff in answer to one from her under Date of March 
20th. 

9th } I wrote 2 letters to day to Wm. Low & David & Emma Day. 

10th [] } I recieved one letter from Brother Gibson And wrote him one in Return. I recieved A 
Pamphlet Entitled Constitution of the State of Deseret with the Journal of the Convention which 
formed it &c which was good. 

1 1th Sunday I Preached to the saints & loaned 9 No of the Star to Mrs Brown. 

12th We recieved in this mornings papers Arivals from Calafornia Also from Europe. The 
steemer from Calafornia brought $500,000 dollars worth of gold dust from the Mines. The Ship 
Areatus in which Calvin Foss was in Arived in Calafornia on the 23d Sept 170 days out from 
Boston. I recieved the frontier Guardian the 19 No. 

13th [] } I wrote a letter to Brother & Sister Moulton & got one from Brother Wm. Page who had 
got to Buffalo with his family. 

14th I Accompanied Olive to the rail road who took cars & returned home to Saco. During the 
evening in company with Brother Cannon I Attended one of Le Roy Sunderland Lectures upon 
Patheism. He had some 10 persons in a state of Clarvoyance And About a dozen asleep And 
many affected in the first degree. He classes his Mesmerism under 3 degrees 12 3 But it is 
evident in a great measure that his operation are a money making scheme. Those in the third 
degree are trained subjects And I could free-quently see the Cloven foot manifest. 

15 16th I spent the time at home writing & prepareing to go on my mission. 

17th Saturday Left home. Took cars at Boston. Rode to Worcester Danielsonville. Took stage. 
Rode to Willmantle & spent the night with Brother Swett Harrison & Cyriel Brown. 100 m. 

18th I met with the Saints in the house of Brother Dan Atwoods the Father of Millen Atwood 
who lives with President B Youngs. Father & Mother Atwood with Millen Mineus & Samuel 
there Sons are all in the Church and talk of going to the valley in the spring. This branch of the 
Church is Called the Mansfield Containing 35 members. Cyriel E Brown Presiding Elder. I 
preached in the forenoon & afternoon & Administered unto 5 that were sick. In the evening I 
returned to Brother Harrison Browns, & preached at his house. 

19th } I wrote A letter to Mrs Woodruff. I rode to Brother Atwood's And spent the day. It was A 
terrible Storm. 

20th I spent the day at Brother Browns. Had A talk with the Saints. 

21st We took cars. Rode to Norwich & Steemer at 7 oclok to New York. 100 mile. 

22d At Office 9 west street opposite the Boston Boat peer 2 North River. C. W. Brush Brother 


Page307 




Swett got ticket for Cincinati through in 4 days via Buffalo & Schenectadey for $14. 1 took 
steemer at 4 oclock. Rode all night. 

23d I arived at Philadelphia at sun set Called at Brother Gibsons And found all well. I found Dr 
John M. Bernhisel. We spent the night together & had a good time. 125 m. 

24th A rainy morning. In Company with Dr Bernhisel I Called at the Office of Col Kane but He 
was not in. I spent the day with Brother Gibson. 

25th Sunday I preached in the morning to the Church in Philadelphia. Br Bernhisel in the 
Afternoon gave an account of the History of the valley And I preached in the evening to a full 
House and had the spirit of God and bore A faithful testimony. Spent the night at Brother Gibson. 
I Confinned one blessed one Child, Administered unto 5 sick. 

26 } I wrote A letter to Mrs Woodruff. I had an interview with Col Kane in Company with Dr 
John M Bernhisel. I Called upon Mrs Jeffreys N.E. Cornor of Callow hill & Franklin street. 
Asked Advice About stoping two years. Stated circumstances. I Called upon Sister Conrad 
Conner of fourth and Brown and spent the night with Brother Gibson. 

I had an interview with I 1 Hiram Kimball. He sympathieses much with Foster the Laws Marks 
&c. He saw Foster out on the prairie by himself vary poor & in trouble. Said he would be willing 
to sacrafice his last Child he has if that would place him back in his former Standing in the 
Church And if He possessed riches He would give it all to have 5 minutes Conversation with 
Joseph Smith. Kimball said he was vary sorry for him & Could not help sheding tears for him. 
Said he could forgive him with all his heart & Advised him to go to the valley And thought all 
would forgive him. He seemed to take much interest in that Class of people than in building up 
the Kingdom of God. 

27th } I wrote A letter to Col Kane Also one to A W Babbit. See Copy. 

28th ? I took cars for New Ark Del. The cars which I was in contained many Noted members of 
Congress who were on their way to Washington. The following were said to be among the 
number: Hon Henry Clay, Gen Cass, Gov Seward Hon Mr Wilmot Truman Smith Mr Wheeler, 

& others. 

I walked to Turkeytown Maryland and Preached at night to the big Elk branch of the Saints 20 in 
No. I spent the night with Br Loyd Fellen & Stephen Mahony After travelling in three states 
preaching 2 hours I went to rest at 1 1 oclok. 45 mile. 

0 Dr John M Bernhisel remarks on health. 1st keep A Clear Conscience A Happy Contented 
mind. 2d Always night or Day keep a free exercise of air. 3d Drink water instead of tea, coffee 
Ail or any other drink. Dont use tobaco. Be temperate in Eating. Use plain food & not high 
seasoned meets. 5th The skin of the stomach being vary thin & Containing Juices for digestion 
we should not take Cayane Black Pepper, Alkahal, pickles or any thing that will inflame the 
stomach or destroy the Juices for it will inflame the whole system & injure health. To Prevent 


Page308 




Habitual Costiveness grown persons & Children should be learned & practice going to the Stool 
about the same hour each day & the Bowels will Harmonize with that practice & be in a healthy 
Condition. 

The principle of Cultivating the memory and Concentrating our powers of thought to one focus 
in conversation upon any important point which we may wish to remember is of great 
Consequence. We ought not to suffer anything els to occupy our thoughts or attention when we 
wish to be correct in remembering any thing. And we ought to teach our children to read a peace 
& see how much they can remember or hear preaching [and] see how much they can repeat. One 
man practiced in this way untill He could read and repeat a whole News paper Advertisements & 
all. 

29 I walked up to Br. Thomas Manoheys Fair Hill Cissel Co Maryland back to Fellens. Rode to 
Brother Stagemans. Preached to the people. Rode to Fellens & spent the night. 8 miles. 

30th I took cars rode to wilmington Del & spent the evening with A few friends in conversation. 
Spent the night with Joseph A Hall 27th Eight street Wilmington Del D.C. 10 m. 12 m. 

December 

Dec 1st I took Cars. Rode to Philadelphia. Spent the night at J Gibsons. I recieved 3 letters 2 
from Mrs Woodruff & one from Dr Bemhisel containing a ticket to visit Girard College. I called 
upon Col Kane & saw A sleigh robe presented to him by Dr Bernhisel as A present from 
President Young. It contained 7 wolf skins & 10 Fox skins got up with great taste & splendor. It 
was worth $40. 1 wrote A letter to Mrs Woodruff. ^ [] 

2d I Preached 3 times to the Church in Philadelphia & the spirit of God rested upon me And I 
taught the Saints in plain terms. I laboured hard. We had a hard snow storm during the day & 
night. 

3d Note(4) It still storms. The papers are full of murders from all parts of the Country And 
Congress is A political hot bed of Corruption And there is danger of its exploding the union. I 
went out in the rain & visited Jerard College. 

* Jerard College is one of the most splendid buildings I ever visited. The general design of the 
building is that of A Greek Temple having eight Columns on each end and Eleven on each side 
(Counting the Comor Columns both ways) making in all thirty four Colums. x x The Columns 
are 6 feet in diameter 55 feet in higth. The bases are 9 feet 3 inch in diameter & 3 feet 2 inch high 
& the Capitals 8 feet 6 inch high, 9 feet 4 inch wide on the face of the abacus. Each shaft is 
Channelled in 24 semicircular flutes. 

The nett amount of marble in each Column including the base And Capital is 1,346 cubic feet the 
weight 103 tons & the Cost $12,994. Total Cost of the 34 Colums $51,976. 

The exterior of the Celia or body of the building measures 111 feet wide 169 feet long & 59 feet 


Page309 




8 inches high. The whole of the Exterior of the building is Composed of marble of A vary 
superior quality, x x Evry block of marble in the building is set on peaces of milled lead. 

The roof is Composed of marble tiles 4 1/2 feet long 4 feet wide 2 3/4 inch thick. Each tile is 776 
lbs & each saddle 214 lbs the whole Number of the tiles in the roof being 2,046 and of saddles 
2,061. The aggragate wait of the tiles & saddles is 906 tons. Marble Chimney tops And the cast 
Iron Sky lights Also weigh 20 tons And the lead & masonery of the gutters 43 1/2 tons making 
the entire weight of the roof 969 1/2 tons. 

The building is three stories in highth. The first & second stories are 25 feet from floor to floor & 
the third 30 feet in the clear. Each story is divided as directed by the Will into four rooms 50 feet 
square in the clear. The outside walls are 4 feet in thickness the inside 3 feet. Each arch including 
all abutments contains 1 17,000 brick which together with the marble floor on top makes the 
weight suspended over each room about 350 tons. 

The stairways are situated in the fore comers of the building the spaces Allotted to them being 
each 22 feet 6 inch wide & 26 feet 6 inch long. They are all Composed of white marble And are 5 
feet 3 inch in width with two landings or quarter p[ace?]s in each story. The plan on which they 
are Constructed is that of Geometrical stairs having one end of each step secured in the wall & 
one edge resting on the step below. All the stair ways as well as the landings in the upper stories 
are finished with rich balustrades of cast Iron & mahogany rails springing from many marble 
Newels. The Cost of these stairways including the balustrades was $18,500. The following are 
the material used in the Construction of the main building: 



Weighing 

Tons 

177,168 Cubic feet of marble 

do 

13,537 

25,139 flooring tiles 

do 

409 

12,134,980 Brick 

do 

27,087 

12,495 perches of building stone 

do 

19,635 

21,366 Cubic feet of granite 

do 

1,717 

Wrought Iron for bands Cramps &c 

do 

134 

Cast Iron in ceiling of portico 

do 

142 1/2 

do in water pipes 

do 

18 1/2 

do in skylights & inner rims 

do 

18 

Milled lead for gutters & setting 



marble & lead for Cramping 

do 

48 1/2 

53,720 bushels of lime 

do 

1,431 

50,224 bushels of river sand 

do 

3,292 

133,646 bushels of pit sand 

do 

8,759 

4,200 bushels of Hydraulic cement 

do 

250 

Locks fastenings, glass, lumber 



indoors & windows &c 

do 

116 


Page310 




Making the aggregate weight of 

the building 76,595 

Cost of the whole esstablishment $1,933,821.78 

An extract of Stephen Gerard’s will 

"Secondly I enjoin and require that No ecclesiastic missionary or minister of any sect whatsoever 
shall ever hold or exercise any station or duty whatever in the said College: nor shall any such 
person ever be admitted for any purpose or as a visitor within the premises appropriated to the 
purposes of the said College. 


Copy of my ticket 

Strangers ticket. Admit Mr Woodruff to visit the main building of the Gerard College. Jas J. 
Boswell directer Nov 28 ’49. 


4th } I wrote 3 letters one to Mrs Woodruff, one to Col Kane one to Dr J. M. Bernhisel. I took 
Cars rode to Beverly & spent the night with Br Flagg. 30 m. 

5th } I wrote A letter to J. M Bernhisel. I took cars to Boardentown & stage to New Egypt & 
spent the night. 35 m. 

6th } I wrote A letter to Elder Hyde. I rode to Hornerstown. I preached at night in a school House. 
I Blessed one child & spent the night with Br Curtis. 3 m. 

7th I rode to Toms River Preached to the Saints & spent the night with Anthony & Israel Ivins. 

25 m. 

8th I rode with Israel Ivins 25 miles to Freehold in the Stage 15 Rail Road 20 miles in steem Boat 
to New York 30 miles. 

I recieved 3 letters from Mrs. W Col. Kane and ^ * Dr Bernhisel. I wrote 2 letters to Col Kane & 
Dr Bernhisel. Spent the night with Br T Cartwright. 90 m. 

9th Sunday I preached twice at New York. Administered to 2 sick. Read 2 numbers of the Star. I 
had A dream Concerning Br Delin. 

10th } I wrote A letter to Mrs Woodruff. I had an Interview with Mr Copway the Ojibwa Indian 
Chief who is calling upon this Nation to stay their hand in the persecution of the Indians And is 
Carrying A petition to Washington & Calling upon the Government to give the Indians A 
Territory that they may have for their own & not be driven any more. I had a plesant time with 
him. 

1 1th I took Steemer & rode to Havenstraw & preached at night at Br Druce House & spent [the 
night]. 40 mile. 


Page3 1 1 




12th I took Steemer rode to New York then to Newark N.J. And spent the night with Brother 
Pro-v[ost?]. 50 mile. 

13th I rode to west Bloomfield & spent the night and preached & talked untill 2 oclok then went 
to bed between two men on a cold straw bed 3 Hours & got up at 5 oclok. I confirmed one And 
Ordained one Elder. 10 m. 

14th In Company with Elder David Turner I took Cars. Rode to Summerville to Preach. Also to 
Baptize Mr Isaac Moorehouse. 

But when I arived I found He had been on A Drunken spree with two Irishmen Patrick Burnes 
And Another man at Mr Burns House which finally resulted in the murder of one of the Irishmen. 
Burns knocked the other man down & stamped on his breast untill He killed him under the 
following Circumstances: Moorehouse gave Bumes 1 Bill to go & buy some liquor. He gave the 
$1 to the other Irishman to go on the errand. He Pocketed the money & would not go Burns then 
Knocked him down Stamped on his breast untill He Could not speak. He then left him lying on 
the floor with the Blood running out of his mouth. 

Burns then looked up Moorehouse in his house for two days. Said He would kill him also if [he] 
stired out of the house or reported against him in any way. The 2d day Moorehouse got out. The 
man died soon after He left. Moorehouse reported the case. Bumes & wife were both 
imprisioned. The Jury brought in A verdict of murder & Moorehouse will be the witness in the 
trial. But Moorehouse was miserable fearing that Bumes & wife would sware the Murder upon 
him. I did not baptize him of course, But preached at Brother Turners to A full House & spent the 
night. 40. 

15th I took Cars & rode to New York. I got 3 letters from [] Mrs Woodruff Tuttle, [and] Mr 
Copway containing A Ticket to attend his lecture. I went in Company with Elder Cartwright. Mr 
Copway deliverd An interesting lecture to near 1,000 people who listened with good attention. 
His Address will be found on this Journall at the End of this month & year. 

16th I Preached twice to the Saints in New York. I had a wet rainy day. I walked over to Mr 
Water House & found him vary sick with the Lung fever. I laid hands upon him & prayed for 
him. He was Healed so that He went to his labour next day. I wrote two :]■ Letters to Babbitt & 
Bernhisel for Copway. 

17th I had an interview with Mr Copway & Smith Tuttle spoke About A rumour about Brother 
Appleby concerning leaving Mr Hands Children &c. I Called upon Mr Water House & rode to 
Hampstead & spent the night [at] Br Browers. 30 m. 

18th I Preached at the Hampstead Branch at night to a full House & spent the night with Brother 
Brower. 

19th I walked to Hampstead. Took Cars. Rode to New York. Had an interview with Elder 


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Kelsey. Took Steemer. Rode to the quarentine on Statten Island. Took Stage. Rode 7 miles & 3 
miles in a waggon. Called upon Brother Joseph Brower A worthy Brother in the Church & spent 
the night. He is A ship builder & repairer & is doing well. 60 m. 

20th I rode in the rain 10 miles took Steemer to New York & spent the night with Brother Kelsey 
& talked upon A j_ variety of things such as the importance of the Elders keeping the Commands 
of God. 20 mil. 

2 1st I Closed up my business at the City & took A Steemer And rode to New Haven & spent the 
night at Father Sandfords. 100. 

22 ^ I wrote A Letter to Mrs Woodruff & one to O. Hyde & sent him 13 names for the paper. It 
was A hard storm. I spent the day at Smith Tuttles. A Speaker in the House of Congress was 
Elected to day after trying 20 days. 

23d Sunday I Preached twice in Fair Haven once in New Haven & spent the Night at Warrens. 
Blessed one Child. Administered to one sick. 

24th I took cars. Rode to wellingford. Called upon Brother Doolittle & preached at his house & 
spent the night. I finished O Hydes letter & sent him 15 names. 13 m. 

25th I rode with Brother Doolittle in an open waggon to Naugatuc through the snow which was 
Blowing in our faces. It was much the Coldest day we have had this year. We suffered much. 
Came near freezeing. We spent the night with Brother Woster. 16. 

26th I met with the Saints at night & preached to them Also to the world. It was hard to penetrate 
the veil of darkness caused by the unbelief of the wicked. I had a good time talking with the 
English Saints in company with Elder Wells. 

27th I parted with the Saints & rode to well-ingford with Brother Doolittle And spent the night 
with him. 15 m. 

28th I took Cars & rode to Boston & went to my family in Cambridgeport & spent the night at 
home once more. Distance 150. 

29th [] I spent the day at home & found much business upon my hands. I recieved 15 letters & 
many papers sent me in my Absence. I had letters from the following persons: Bernhisel, Babbitt, 
C. E. Brown Wm H Wilson, J. G. Hardy John Grierson, Wm. W Lovett Swett H. Aldrich Ellers 
Kneating, L Taft, J. Druce, G Taylor J T Eldridge Ezra Carter, Joseph Russell. 

30th Sunday I preached to the Saints. 

3 1st A Hard snow Stonn. I went to Boston And Attended the funeral of a Child of Brother 
Edward Cook No 2 Bartlet Street Boston. I wrote 3 letters } to J G Hardy E. E. Brown & Wm H 
Wilson. 


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The following speech was deliverd by Mr Copway or Kah-ge-ga-gah-Bow the Chief of the 
Ojewa Nation before a large audience in New York City on the eve of Dec 15 1849: 


Ladies, Gentlemen, American Citizens, Of necessity my address this evening must be short. Yet I 
will touch upon a few prominent items which I Consider important to the subject in which I feel 
deeply interested. There are certain events which stand forth in bold relief of deep interest in the 
history of evry nation under heaven. Therefore the History of the Indians or there present 
Condition has also a deep interest. An interest of greater importance than at first presents itself to 
the mind of the American People. Although it may appear to them as coverd with A Cloud or 
buried deep from their view yet it none the less exhists. 

Then listen to me. I have deeply studied the situation & interest of my brethren the Red men for 
years and I have resolved to Call aloud upon the white men of this Nation to give ear to my 
Petitions. If you do not see the Indian Orator in your midst making a display of oratory like the 
white man it is not because he has not talent but because he has not a Chance to exercise it. 

1st My object in visiting the United States is to present A petition to this Government that they 
may assist me in concentrating the Indians to gether that they may live & not die. I want 
Congress to grant them a portion of Territory that they Can call their own and be concentrated 
upon it that they not be driven from it any more. They once were the owners & occupier of the 
whole soil of all North America. The white man came & removed the Indians and Continually 
driven them untill they Can see no hope but the grave before them. I now ask in their behalf a 
Territory to settle them upon that they may have a permanent home forever And Come under the 
United States Government. Let them have some form of Government & become part And parcel 
of the United States. In this matter I have studied the interest of all both the white & redmen. 

1st Give them a Territory that they Can Call their own whare the Children can point to the graves 
of their fathers & say we can now live in Peace and be driven no more. We can visit the graves of 
our fathers with none to drive from them us. And they will be inspired to engage in evry laudable 
undertaking that now marks the Course of the white man. 

2d You can then esstablish schools among them that will be of benefit to them. They would 
obtain knowledge and would make a good use of it. The gospel Could then be introduced among 
them and they would be far more ready to recieve it when they find the white man is consistant & 
willing to do them good. But when the white man offers the gospel to the Indian one year & the 
next Comes & drives him from his home & the graves of his fathers He has no faith or 
Confidence in either the white man or his gospel. 

3d You can then introduce agriculture among them and they will recieve it for they would then 
see of necessity they must Cultivate the land or die. They could not depend upon game for 
support and they would turn their attention to Cultivating the soil make improvements and take 


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delight in the same way as the white man. 

4th They would then be in a position whare they would be deliverd from the 111 Consequences of 
Constant removing which has continualy followed them for many years. The 111 Consequences of 
removing have been multiplied & vary great. This has been one main reason why schools have 
been unproductive of good among them. This is also one reason why Missionaries have done no 
more good among them. 

The Indians are fast decreasing and Passing Away. What is the Cause of ah this? There are 
various Causes. Their Constant removing is one Cause. Disease which has been introduced 
among them By white men in the capacity of traders, missionaries, and Emigrants Also the 
introduction of Alcohol have had a tendency to waste them away. Also wars among themselves 
& wars with white men ah of which have Continually wasted away the Indian tribes. 

I will here remark that in the origin of the wars with the whites the conducting of those wars and 
in the treaties of peace made and broaken the Indians have been badly treated and abused by the 
whites. For instance some ruffian or trader visits the Indian & introduces wild fire or Alcohol 
among them & will get the Indian drunk & perhaps drunk himself and will cheat them in any way 
he can And perhaps kill some of them and in his Career he gets killed himself. Then the cry goes 
forth that the savage Indians are killing & murdering the inhabitants of the Country. It is 
proclaimed in ah the public Journals of the Union. 

Yet one side of the story is proclaimed as with peals of thunder throughout the Earth but no voice 
is raised in behalf of the poor Indian. Their story is not told. The world hear it not. They do not 
enquire or ask for it. But as soon as the story of the white man is told & proclaimed to the world, 
the armies of war must be prepared & soldiers sent forth to drive and Kill the Indians and burn 
their home and in this way the most desolating and expensive wars have been carried on for 
many years untill we feel it is time for the white man to take a different Course with the Indians. 

As an example of the bad Effects of Continually removing the Indians I would refer you to the 
Cherokee Nation. That people were fast improving following rapidly in the footsteps of the white 
man. Had extensive farms & good dwellings and coninued rapidly advancing in improvements 
untill they were suddenly brought to a stand in their Course by being cruelly called upon by the 
State of Georgia to give up their lands And go away from the graves of their fathers into the 
wilderness. And thus it was that the mighty nation instead of recieving that support 
encouragement & comfort from the Nation that He ought to recieve was forced By the cruel hand 
of oppression to bow their heads in sorrow and dispair as they wend their way to their so called 
home in the wilderness whare they can find no other hope ownly to pass a few more years in 
sorrow untill they shah be Called to pass through the same ordeal again to remove and remove 
untill they are anhilated from off the face of the Earth. 

O Ye white man what incouragement do you give the Indian to plant, to build to leam to cultivate 
the Earth, or to recieve a Religion that professes love mercy kindness and truth while those who 
profess to Enjoy it deals out such deeds of oppression & Cruelty upon the heads of the red men 


Page315 




that it drives them to madness and Despair? 

Let the American Nation stay their hand from this time forth in their oppression & drivings of the 
Indians lest they drive them beyound a point which the Indian will endure and return a Blow 
upon the head of the white man which will fill many a habitation with death. Once give the 
Indians A Territory A home whare they can have a full assurance that their ears or those of their 
Children will no more be saluted with a Call to remove from their lands. Then if they do not 
show forth a spirit of improvement then Cast them off as not worthy of your support or attention. 
But untill then you are not justifyed. Your garments are not Clear. 

The spirit of the age & times demands that Congress should take immediate action upon this 
matter. 

1st The Indians cannot retain their lands. Emigration of the white men are already surrounding 
them & in their midst. And the richness & fertility of the Indians lands are a temptation to the 
white man and invite him to settle thereon. 

2d The Indians have two much land. More than what they need to till and Cultivate for their 
support. Let there be a Territory set off on the North west of Ioway North of Council Bluffs on 
the Missouri on which there is now no white settlement. And let the Indians East of the Rocky 
mountains And in the United States be gatherd upon it. Then let other Territories in the west be 
appropriated And let all the Indians on the North American Continant be Collected together & 
learned to Cultivate the Earth. They will soon associate themselve to gether and cease their wars 
among themselves also with the white man. If there is not sumthing of this kind done the vast 
Emigration through all the Indians lands will soon destroy the game & then want & Starvation 
will ensue & this will bring on war between the white & Red men. 

If my Proposition is excepted by the American government And they will Carry it out it will be 
of vast benefit both to the Indians And the people of the United States. 

1st The Benefit to the Indians will be it will give them a permanent home whare schools can be 
es-stablished among them and their Children taught the English language. 

Farms Can also be opened among them and when they see they have a permanent home for 
themselves and their Children and they have no game to depend upon for food they will 
immediately go to work & Cultivate the Earth like white men. 

The gospel can then be introduced among them to a good Effect and they will recieve it with 
Thankfulness when they can be made to believe that the hand that deals out the gospel to them is 
not laying a plan to take the advantage of them and preparing a way to drive them from their 
home & Country. It will also unite not ownly their interest & attachment towards each other but 
their regard & interest with that of the United States. 

The benefit to the Government is less expenses. 


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1st Buying their lands and Paying them yearly annuities which is Costing the Government 
immens sums of money. 2d The Continual transporting of Indians from place to place. There has 
already been 96,000 indians removed by the government. 3d The keeping of many Indian Agents 
at great experts to Government could then be dispensed with. 4th Fortifications have now to be 
erected on the borders of all Indian tribes with the Intention of keeping the Indians in subjection. 
These would not be needed if the Indians were in a Territory of their own for by having their trail 
clear & no encroachments of the white man upon their borders there would be no Cause of war 
or fortifications. 

I am going to Washington soon to lay my Petition before the Congress of the United States and 
urge them to grant my Prayer for the benefit of both the white and Red men. I want your aid. I 
want you to sign my petition that the voice of thousands may be heard in behalf of this petition. 

I want the names of Legeslators governors and American Citizens in General that my prayer may 
be heard & answerd. Give the North American Indian A home, a place whare the soles of their 
feet can rest in peace. Then you will do your duty towards them & place them in a situations 
whare you can teach them Literature, Agriculture & Commerce. Give them the Chance the white 
man has, And I Prophesy in the name of the Lord that there will ere long be found among them 
their Philosophers, Franklins, & Washingtons who would do honor to any civillized or Christian 
Nation on the globe. But let this Nation turn a deaf ear to my Petitions and the Petitions of the 
Indians, continue to oppress them and drive them to desperation and the hour is near when the 
Camp fire will be seen upon many a hill. The war hoop will reach from one end of the Rocky 
Mountains to the other. The Indian will then sell his life as dear as possible and deal out death 
whareever an opportunity offers. When this blow is struk It will be Terrible to all. May God 
forbid that such a blow should fall at all. That the seenes of Bloody Brook should any more be 
enacted. 

American Citizens it is to ward of this blow that I now stand before you, That I now Call upon 
this Nation bearing a petition unto them. Will you hear my Prayer? Will you give the Indian his 
rights? Will you help bury the hate forever? Or will you make a grave to bury your dead? I leave 
you to DECIDE. 


The following is A true Copy of the Petition: 

To the Honorable the Senate and House of Representatives. 

The memorial of the undersigned Citizens and Residence of the United States Most Respectfully 
Showeth 

That the present state of the Indian Tribes within the jurisdiction of the United States and the 
Continant of North America is a subject worthy of the consideration of evry Christian and 
Philanthropist in this union. That if by any practical method these Aboriginal and Primitive 


Page3 1 7 




owners of the soil can be civillized and incorporated into the body politic as enlightened and 
useful Citizens no time should be lost in making the attempt. 

The rapid advancing spirit of the age presents this subject before Congress as indispensible to be 
acted upon now. With this subject in view and with earnest prayer to Almighty God to Enlighten 
your Councils on this momentous subject we the under signed present the Cause of the Indians to 
the Earnest Consideration of your Honorable Body praying that such means may be spedily 
adopted that will give to the Red Man a pennanent home and all the Arts Conveniences and 
Comforts of Civillized life. To this End we pray that A sufficent portion of the great North 
Western Territory may be appropriated to this use for the reception & consentration of such of 
the Indian Tribes as may Be willing to become agriculturist and recieve from the hands of the 
white man a sound system of moral & intellectual training. The land so appropriated to be 
erected into an Indian District subject to such form of govennent & such laws as congress may 
deem con-sistant with the constitution & laws of the United States. 

Mr Copway remarked to W. Woodruff in personal conversation That He had long Contemplated 
the situation of the poor Indians and he well know their position and feelings and if the United 
States did not soon take a different course and scease their persecutions and oppressions and 
driving the Indians to such extremities as they were doing that the Indians would soon rise up in 
their wrath Unite to gether and seek revenge and strike a Blow unto death. And it was in 
consequence of a knowledge of this fact that had inspired him to go through the United States 
Call meetings and lecture before the people and strive to Call the attention of the white man to 
use his influence to assist in staying this spirit of oppression against the Indian. But I meet with 
but little success. The Christians of this day manifest but little sympathy with me. 

I was a while with the Methodist and If I would confine myself with there doctrines they would 
help me. But the moment that I wanted my liberty to be free And act independantly they would 
forsake me. 

But I am tired of such bigotry. I am resolved to do all in my power to Call upon the people and 
Government that my gannents may be Clear in trying to ward off the blow which I know will 
Come if the people of the United States do not scease their oppressions. And when it does come I 
had rather not be alive than to see what will follow. But if they will not harken to my petition nor 
to the cry of the Indians I am as ready to die at the cannons mouth as any whare els. I will go 
before Congress and talk plain before them and tell them that I want them to do sumthing with 
me for the Indians. That we have bourn affliction & oppression from the hand of the people of 
the United States all the day long and it is time it was stoped. 

The world have accused us of being Co [...Jared with the Mormons to overthrow the Government. 
I shall tell them it is false. There has been no such Combination at all. But I shall tell them the 
Indians have treated the white men well. And so have the Mormons treated the Indians well And 
the People of the United States And even have fed their enemies And helped them while in 
distress in the wilderness. The Mormons have never given the Indians any Council to go to war 


Page318 




with the whites or with themselves but always have Councilled them to make peace. This 
principle I shall declare upon the floor of the Halls of Congress. 

But says this Lamanite Chief If this Nation does not hear us does not help us does not cease their 
oppression Still we have hope for the Great SPIRIT will at last both Hear Help and Deliver us. 
For as A people we shall not die. For If the Lord has to raise us up help out of the Rocky 
Mountain that Help will aris which will both save us and do us GOOD . 

Views of Col. Thomas L. Kane on 
a Government for Deseret 


Nov 26th 1849 In Company with Dr J. M. Bernhi-sel I called upon Kane to have an interview 
with him In Relation to Petitioning Congress for the reception of the State of Deseret into the 
Union. The following is a synopsis of the Conversation of Col Kane: 

You must not commit yourselves to any party but keep a close mouth with all parties and the 
utmost discreet and wise course must be pursued in order to do any thing at all. I will do what I 
can with the free soil party, My Father and Mr Dallest with the Democrats. It will be the most 
Critical Congress ever held. 

"I Applyed according to the wish of President Young for a Territorial Government. I had my last 
sad and Painful interview with President Polk. I found He did not feel disposed to favor your 
People and had his men of his own stamp picked out to serve as Govornor & other officers who 
would have oppressed You or injured you in any way to fill their own Pockets. He would not 
appoint men from among yourselves And I saw it absolutely necessary that you should have 
officers of your own people to govern you or you were better without any Government. I had to 
use my own discretion and I withdrew the Petition. I am fully decided upon that point. That you 
must have officers of yourselves, & not military Politicians who are struting around in your midst 
usurping Authority over you. 

It will not do for you to take the slavery question or Antislavery or any other side but the nutral. 
[..jtchinson of Missouri with the Monnon opposing party will still be your enemies Thomas 
Benton has been an inveterate enemy and still may be. And all the Parties with the whole of 
Congress is a mass of Corruption & abomination. They are all governed by party management 
without any regard to principle & if we do any thing upon this Subject we shall have to Enter into 
wise Management. We may have to favor the South some though they are your Enemies and I 
hate to do it. 

Parties are all breaking up And New ones forming and no man Can tell what a day will bring 
forth. Thomas Benton was at the Head of your being driven from Winter Quarters the Indian 
Country and Polk favored it And I Could not turn them from their purpose. I told Mr Polk we 
should not present any Petition while He dictated matters. Benton is still your Enemy at heart. 


Page319 





Douglass is going down with a Certain Class Connected with him. The time was when He Could 
have done your People much good by merely bearing his Testimony of your good Character 
while he was as Judge in Illinoise and He would not do it. (Let this be remembered.) 

Col Kane remarked that from the acquaintance I have had with Mr Bxxxxx I entertain serious 
Appre-bentions that He will by his Course at Washington injure your cause. [The "x" marks are 
Woodruffs.'] He was formerly A small politition but a rough one of the Missouri Stamp and this 
in my view to some extent would disqualify him for the business. Besides He expressed a want 
of Confidence in his wisdom prudence and discretion to manage this affair and that He would 
associate with an inferior Class of men in the lower House which would also exhert a prejudical 
effect upon our Cause. 

The following remarks were made By Col Kane to W Woodruff Dec 4th 1849: 


Col Kane remarked You are better without any Government from the hands of Congress than a 
Territorial Goverment. The Political intreagues of Government Officers will be against you. You 
can govern yourselves better than they can govern you. I would prefer to see you withdraw the 
Bill than to have a Territorial Government for if you are defeated in the State Government you 
can fall upon it again at another session if you are not a Territorial Government. But if you are 
you Cannot apply for a state government for a number of years. I insist upon it. You do not want 
Corrupt Political men from Washington strutting around you with military [-] & dress who will 
speculate out of you all they Can. They will also control the Indian Agency land Agency And will 
Conflict with your Calculation in a great measure. You do not want two Governments with you. 
You have a Government now which is firm & Powerful and You are under no obligations to the 
United States. You owe them nothing but kicks, Cuffs and the treatment of wicked dogs for that 
is the ownly treatment you have recieved from their hands since you have been a People. ("And 
the golden rule is what measure men meet out shall be measured to them again.") 

Brigham Young should be your Govornor. His head is not filled with Law Books and Lawyers 
tactics but he has power to see through men & things. And all councillors Elders & agents should 
be made to know their place sustain the head man & work for the general good in all things and 
not act from selfish motives or to get some Petty office or a little salary. 

He said if we did make up our minds to ask for a Territory we should use evry exhertion in our 
power to get the assureance of the President that our Choice should be granted us in a Govornor 
& other officers [as?] Brigham Young for Govornor &c. But if we Could not get this assurance 
not to ask for it at all but wait the result. He said If we were a State there might be ever so many 
men come along and say I am Judge, I am Col, I am Gen. You can whistle and ask no odds of 
them. But while a Territory You Cannot do it. And then their is always so many entrigues to 
make Political parties among you the first thing you know A strong Political party is rising up in 
your midst who are selfish And against your interest. 


Page320 




Col Kane requested me to remember what He had said to me as He might not have health to do 
for us what he was now doing And He wished his views to be known to the Presidency in the 
valley. I remarked to him that I would do so and Pray for his success in our behalf also for his 
health strength & prosperity. He thanked me & said He should Prize our prayers Highly. 

I felt impressed that Col Kane was Endowed with much wisdom in his work in our behalf and I 
think that He had right views of things in General. 


Signs of the times and remarks upon the year AD 1849 


The narrative of the year 1849 forms A remarkable Chapter in the History of the world. Perhaps 
no single year has embraced a greater number of important events or involved so great & lasting 
consequences in such a variety of relations. The overthrow of the Sikhs. The esstablishment of 
the British Power on the ruins of the Sikh dynasty. The deposition of the pope. The declaration of 
the Roman Republic and its early extinction by the French intervention & the struggles in 
Sardinia. The movements of the people in Jermany; the Contest between the Danes And Jermans; 
the intervention of Russia in Hungarian affairs; the fall of Hungary; the overthrow of Venice and 
the movements in the national mind of France on social questions are all Pregnant with vast 
Results. Also the passing of the Bill in the British Parliament on the 23d of Feb granting to Jews 
the right to seats in the Parliament of Great Britain is one strong omen of the redemption of that 
Peculiar people. These in connexion with storms, whirlwinds, Earthquakes, fires and the most 
desolating pestilence & Plagues which has swept over Europe & Eastern world Shows Clearly to 
the reflecting mind who has any portion of the Testimony of Jesus Christ that the Great God has 
Commenced his Controversy with all Nations. And that Great Babylon is Coming in 
Rememberance before God. 

And when we turn our attention to the western Hemisphere the United States of America, any 
true Seer might Justly say that notwithstanding thy Nation O Land like the Antedeluvian world & 
Sodom & Gomorrow boast of their union strength goodness greatness & glory Yet is here that 1 
behold the signs of the times big with Events. It is here that I behold the Clouds thicken the 
Heavens gather Blackness, And the wrath of God ready to fall upon thy head. 

For thou art worthy Notwithstanding O America thou are blowing aloud thy trumpet of fame & 
honor to all the world in sympathizing with Cossuth and other Brave Hungarians and offering a 
Home to the oppressed of All nations. Still thou art the man who dare commit the blackest deeds 
of the Earth. It is here the God of Heaven has commenced set up his kingdom and offered thee 
the gospel of Jesus Christ to save the from the wrath of God. It is here whare that kingdom & 
gospel have been rejected first. It is here whare Presidents Govomors Judges and rulers of the 
Land with thousands of the people have broaken the laws & constitution of the United States and 


Page321 



the several States by turning mob And persecuting many of their own citizens who were the 
Saints of Goth Have deprived them of the rights of citizenship, burned their goods & dwellings, 
taken some of them prisioners held mock trials over them by a mob Jury who were their Jury by 
Day & guard by night who would pour whiskey down each others throats And then God Dam 
God, And Jesus Christ the Holy Ghost, And evry religious sect they could think of & close their 
songs with the words God Dam the God Dam Monnons. Then would imprision the saints in 
Chains And feed them on Human flesh And finally murdered many of the Saints with the 
Prophets whom God hath sent unto them to Call them to Repentance. And when those persecuted 
American Citizen pled at the feet of the President, Govornors and Judges of the Nation, they 
have been rejected & ridiculed while at the same time they have in some instances been informed 
that there cause was Just. And even down to the present day evry Petition presented by the Saints 
of God who have been driven into the wilderness by the cruel hand of oppression is rejected in 
evry possible way. Because of these things the Lord hath said that He will arise out of his Hiding 
place and in his fury He will vex the Nation And in his Hot displeasure will Cut off those wicked 
and unjust Stewards and Appoint ther Portion with Hypocrites & unbelievers. 

One glance at the signs of 1 849 in the United States will show that the Lord has commenced to 
fulfill his promise And He will not scease untill it is finished. There has never been A year since 
the esstablishment of the United States Government when there has been so great a loss of 
property & life by fire & Pestilence, or such an increase of mobs or confusion and Perplexity in 
the Government as in 1849. 

Among the most desolating fires may be named the burning of Watertown on Sunday the 13th of 
April. $121,000 worth of property destroyed. Five days after on the 18 of April the tremendious 
Conflagration at St Louis. More than half the busi-nesspart of the city was burned. $6,000,000 
worth of property destroyed. The Plague also in the form of the Cholera visited the same city 
soon after the fire and in few weeks laid in the grave 8,000 of its inhabitants. The Cholera has 
also swept many thousand into the grave in various parts of the United States, ft has raged 
through most parts of the land during the past season. Mobs have also increased to an alarming 
degree in the United States. In New York, Philadelphia, & Portland they have been very 
conspicuous. 

The desolution of the American Union also seems to be fast ripening during the past year. The 
slavery question seems to be the great hinge upon which the Nation will split. At the meeting of 
Congress the House spent 1 8 days in Organizing the House & Electing the speaker which cost 
the Goverment near $100,000. And it continues to be one of the most exciting Congresses ever 
met in the United States. And if the war spirit now visible in the midst of congress continues to 
increase ft is quite probable that the Union may be dissolved before the close of this session, 
Although many Editors of the public Journals have ridiculed for several years the Idea of the 
Dividing of the American Union. But this year they feel vary serious upon the subject And all the 
signs of the times in this government indicate that the hand writing upon the wall is begining to 
be visibly seen concerning the fate of this Nation. 


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When we turn our eyes towards Zion during the year 1 849 we can behold the hand of the Lord 
also visible in her behalf. The Lord hath promised great Blessings Concerning Zion And the 
faithful Saints are watching all signs appertaining to her with feelings of the deepest interest. For 
years past Zion has been oppressed and as a captive removeing to and fro. But she has finally 
found a resting place in the rich valleys of Ephraim in the great Bason between the High 
Mountains & Everlasting Hills of North America. And during the year 1849 she has organized 
herself unto an Indipendant sovreign State And appointed her Governor & Nobles of themselves. 
So that Her Nobles are of themselves & her Govornor has proceded out of the midst of Ephraim 
in Zion she has prospered more than during any year since her organization. She is rapidly 
building up a city in peace, has good crops universal Health, has made Arangements to lay of 
three New cities. Has reorganized her marshal Legion of mighty men. 100 families have gone 
200 miles South to fonn A settlement under the Presidency of Bishop Morley in the sand Pitch 
valley. 

The Church during this years has laid the foundation for a fund called the perpetual fund the 
object of which is to gather unto Zion all the poor saints who Cannot gather themselves from 
Council Bluffs, the United States And from all the world, expecting it to increase yearly untill all 
Israel is gatherd. This fund is esstablished by voluntary contributions of the saints. $5,500 was 
collected in the valley in this way in one month And Bishop Edward Hunter was sent to Council 
Bluffs with the money to buy oxen to take up the poor from there to the valley the Coming 
spring. 

The Elders of Israel are also detennined to send the gospel to all the world as soon as possible. 

All of the Apostles who were in the valley have had missions assigned them. 

Brigham Young, Heber C Kimball & Willard Richards Compose the first Presidency, Orson 
Hyde, the President of the Twelve. The following are the full quorum of the present Twelve: 
Orson Hyde Parley P Pratt Orson Pratt, Wilford Woodruff, John Taylor, George A Smith, Amasa 
Lyman, Ezra T Benson, Charles C Rich Lorenzo Snow, Erastus Snow, & Franklin D Richards. 

Orson Hyde is publishing the Guardian & presiding at Council Bluffs. Parley P. Pratt is 
Appointed to preside over the Pacific Islands. Orson Pratt is doing a great work in England; some 
ten or twelve thousand have been baptized under his Presidency During 1849, Wilford Woodruff 
has been presiding over the Eastern States & Canidas & has travelled over 5,000 miles among the 
churches And is now Called upon to gather the remnants to Zion. George A. Smith And Ezra T. 
Benson has led a Camp of the Saints from the Bluffs to the valley through many dangers. Amasa 
Lyman & Charles C Rich Are at Italy, Denmark San Francisco presiding over western 
Cala-fornia. John Taylor Lorenzo Snow, Erastus Snow, & Franklin D. Richards, with about 20 
Elders have arived in the States from the valley On mission to England, France Italy Denmark & 
Sweden. So evry thing is prospering in the Church & kingdom of God And All the signs of the 
Times bespeak the Coming of the Lord Jesus Christ. 

What 1850 will bring to pass time must detennine but it is certain it will be full of the Events of 


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the times. The History of Each year is important now. Plagues, war, fire & Pestilence & famine 
will lay many low in death. Who will live? 

I am expecting to start in April to lead A Company to the Bluffs & on to the valley. The dangers 
are many I shall have to go through But I Pray my Heavenly Father to protect & sustain me & 
those who should go with me that we may reach [it] in safety. 

I Also pray to the Lord to preserve & bless the Twelve And all the Elders of Israel who go on 
foreign missions. And Bless the Presidency with the power of God, & cause Zion to arise And 
put on her beautiful garments. I pray that the oppression of Zion may scease. That her inhabitants 
may have power to build Houses & inhabit them plant vineyards and eat the fruit thereof. I Pray 
that her [la?]nding be like the Garden of the Lord that she may have the early & latter rain that 
the Land may bring forth in her strength. 

O Lord order our cause aright which is before the congress of this Nation. Hay all things work to 
gether for the good of thy Saints. Preserve us all from Evil of evry kind and help us to do thy will 
in all things on the Earth. O Lord Hasten the gathering of Israel who are cast out And the 
dispersed of Judea. May the Lamanites soon blossom like the rose. May the Zion of God who has 
risen And gone up into the mountains be Clothed upon with wrighteous-ness and the power of 
God. May the Church become prepared like a bride prepared for the Coming of the Bridegroom. 
And may the People not ownly have cause to rejoice in the Holy One of Israel during the AD 
1850 But through all time And All Eternity. 


I Travelled through Eleven of the United States 
And New Brunswick, Miramichi, and Prince Edwards 
Island During the year 1849 Total distance 


Travelled 

5,040 Miles 

I held Public meetings 

92 Meetings 

I Baptized 

1 1 Persons 

I Confirmed 

21 Persons 

I Ordained Ezra Carter my Father 


in Law 

1 Patriarch 

Elders 

4 Elders 

High Priest 

1 High Priest 

Blest 

1 1 Children 

Administered unto sick persons 

47 Persons 

I Wrote 

202 Letters 

I Recieved 

150 Letters 


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Wilford Woodruffs Journal for 1850 

* 


January 

JAN 1st 1850 [] I recieved A letter from O Hyde Containing power of Attorney to Collect 
$580.08 of Mr Oliver Carter No 4 Garland street Boston. I spent [part] of the Day Journal 
writing. 

2d I went into Boston. Called upon Mr Carter. Bought some things. 

3d In Company with my Son Wilford I rode to East Bradford in cars & sleigh & spent the night 
with Br Samuel Hardy. Distance 40. 

4th In Company with three Brother Hardy's I went fishing on Rock pond & caught 20 lbs of 
Picker-ell through the Ice. 

5th We fished some on three ponds to day & Cought 18 pickerell. 

6th Sunday I preached to the Saints in Bradford. Had a good time. Took tea with Br Burbank. I 
spent the night with Elder G J Hardy. 

7th * I returned home by cars and recieved 3 letters from Heywood & [Wooley?] N H Felt, And 
A letter And an Epistle from the presidency in Zion All of which were full of good News. The 
following is a portion of the Contents or substance of it: 

"They have universal health good crops plenty to eat. No sickness or Death of late. Are 
Prospering on evry hand are laying off three new cities one at Brownville one at Utah Valley & 
one at Sandpitch valley 200 miles South of salt Lake valley. From 40 to 100 families had gone to 
form a settlement at Sand Pitch valley under the Presidency of Father Morley. 

They had organized the Nauvoo Legion in the valley and it would have been a source of Joy to 
the saints throughout the Earth Could they have witnessed its movements on the day of its great 
parade to see a whole Army of mighty men in martial aray ground their Arms not by Command 
but simply by request repair to the temple block and with pick & spade open the foundation for a 
place of worship & treat the pilasters beams & roof so that we now have a commodious edifice 
100 by 60 feet with brick walls whare we assemble with the Saints from sabbath to sabbath & 
almost evry evening in the week to teach. Council & defise ways and means for the prosperity of 
the Kingdom of God. And we feel thankful that we have a better house or bowery for Public 
worship the coming winter than we have heretofore had any winter in this dispensation. 


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Also the walls of the Council House are nearly Completed. The baths at the wann spring house 
are in Progress and the foundation is laid & the brick prepaired for an extensive store house & 
granary and no exhertions are wanting on our part to push forward the Public works as fast as 
tithing & means are put into our hand. 

They spoke of their great Celebration on the 24th July as being a day long to be remembered. 15 
brethren had arived from the gold Country. Some had plenty of gold. Some were as destitute as 
when they went on board of the Ship Brooklin. "The true use of gold was for paving streets 
covering houses & making Culinary dishes & when the saints shall have preached the gospel 
raised grain & built up cities enough the Lord will open up the way for a supply of gold to the 
perfect satisfaction of his people. 

They have laid the foundation for a Perpetual fund for the purpose of gathering all the poor 
Saints to Zion who Cannot gather themselves untill all the poor are gatherd from Council Bluffs, 
the United States and all the World. And $5,500 as the first fruits of it is sent to Kanesvill by the 
hand of Bishop Hunter to buy oxen to take the poor with him to zion this season & then Each 
year to return to the states with all the money of the perpetual fund to continue to gather the poor 
so that when A nation is bom in a day they can be removed the next of [if ] necessary. 

They are also resolved to send the gospel to all the world as soon as Possible. All of the Twelve 
Apostles who are in the valley with many others have their mission assigned them to the Nations. 
Elder John Taylor accompanied by Curtis E Bolton and John Pack goes to France; Elder Lorenzo 
Snow to Italy & Joseph Toronto with him; Erastus Snow to Denmark & Peter Hanson. Franklin 
D. Richards goes to England accompanied by John S. Higdy. George B Wallace, Job Smith H. 

W. Church, Joseph W Johnson, Joseph W Young & Jacob Gates will all go on a mission to 
cooperate with President Orson Pratt. Elder John Forsgreen will go on a mission to Sweeden. 
Elder P. P. Pratt will go on a western Mission to the Islands in the Spring. The above named 
Elders except P P Pratt have Just arived in the States 

The Epistle also makes the following remarks: Elder Orson Pratt is Doing a great work in 
England & the cause of truth is advancing rapidly in all her home dominions & the rejoiceing of 
the Saints causes satan to howl for he is Compelled to be subject to the power of the highest. 

"Elder Woodruff is located at Cambridgeport Mass, and has been Comforting and instructing the 
Saints in Canida and the Eastern States the Past year. If Elder Woodruff will gather up all the 
Saints in his vicinity and come with them to this place, He will be doing a great work and will be 
opening a way for a visit to those Nations who have both eyes and ears and are crying to the 
Elders of Israel come tell us of the things of God for we have heard that God is with you." 

They Call loudly upon me to gather up all the Saints in the Eastern Country & bring them to Zion 
to Esstablish Woolen & Cotton factories & Iron founderies. They say there is Iron & Coal in 
good locations not far distant. 


Page326 




The following is an item of the minutes of the Conference: On motion, Prest Brigham Young 
was sustained as the first President of the Church of J.C. of L.D.S. by unanimous vote of 
conference and also Heber C. Kimball as first and Willard Richards as second Councellors to 
Prest Young. Motioned that John Smith be Sustained as the Patriarch of the whole Church. 
Carried. Do do Willard Richards do do Historian to this Church. Carried. Do do Orson Hiyde do 
do President of the quorum of the Twelve. Carried. Also Parley P Pratt, Orson Pratt Willford 
Woodruff, John Taylor George A. Smith Amasa Lyman Ezra T. Benson Charles C Rich Lorenzo 
Snow, Erastus Snow, And Franklin D Richards And all the other Quorums were recieved in the 
same way. And many other good things were Communicated to me all of which filled my soul 
with Joy. 

Sister Huldah Frost Called upon us & spent the night. I also recieved the 23d Number of the 
Guardian. 30 m. 

8th I spent the day writing perusing the Epistle & letters. 

9th } } } I wrote 4 letters to O. Hyde J. G. Hardy George Russel and Joseph Russel. In Brother 
Russels letter I copied much of the letter And Epistle And some of Ezra Carters letter. 

10th } I wrote 9 letters to M. C. Pevey J. W. Crapo, T F Eldridge J. G. Hardy Wm M Swett & 
Druce Dr. Bemhisel J Gibson A H Scott. I also recieved [] two letters from A. H. Scott & Ezra 
Carter. 

1 1th ^ I wrote 6 letters to J C Little J W. Grierson Wm Page, N H Felt C. C. Brown & Wm Low. 

Jan 12th 1850 } I wrote 7 letter to J. Livingston J. Luce T. Cartwright D Turner, S. Wells D. 
Carter and J. Townsend. I recieved two letters from [] S. Wells & S. Tuttle. 

13th Sunday I Preached in Cambridgeport. 

14th } [] I wrote 8 letters to T Cartwright J. Burgess S. Wells, Hicks, O. Pratt E. Keating, J 
Sandford, J. Doolittle. I recieved two letters from J Doolittle M Pevey. 

15th } } I wrote 4 letters to Father Carter, Fabyan Ilus F & S Moulton. 

16th } I wrote 7 letters to A Badlam J Brown S. Scareroans A C Pevey T Whitney, S Mack & 
Israel Ivins. I recieved 3 letters from T Wooley S C [ ]& D Argus. 

17 } } I wrote 2 letters to J C Little & T. Cartwright. I wrote Copway [-] Address. I recieved 2 
letters from J C Little & E Whipple. Elders Bam & Pi[.re.?] spent the evening with me. I read the 
Epistle, letters & some Journal to them. 

18th [] } I wrote to Wm Low. I recieved 2 letters from Wm Low & John Parkinson. I recorded Mr 
Copways speech in my Journal. 

19th I rode to Lowell with Elisha B Foster & spent the night at Brother Peveys. 30 m. 


Page327 




20th Sunday I Preached twice at Brother Pevey And in the evening I called upon Abiel Pevey a 
few moments in the evening But I think he has No interest in the kingdom of God. I spent the 
night with Elder Lou[gae?]. 

2 1st [] } I recieved 4 letters from A. W. Babbitt Esqr Dr J M Bernhisel Nathan Eldridge O. B 
Huntington. I wrote 2 letters to A W Babbitt & O Huntington. I rode from Lowell to 
Cambridgeport. 30 m. 

22d } I wrote A letter to Horace Humphry. 

23d [] I recieved 2 letters from Thomas Cartwright & S. Wells. 

24th * I wrote A letter to Thomas Cartwright. Sent him $7. 

25th } } [] I recieved 4 letters from Wm Walker Lewis Taft & Sarah E. Taft. I W[rote] 5 Letters to 
Col Thomas L Kane & J M Bernhisel Ezra Carter Lewis Taft Wm Walker. I recieved A letter 
from Dr J M Bernhisel And 24th No of the Guardian containing a letter from George A. Smith. 

26th [] } I wrote 3 letters to Orson Pratt Mary Ann Pratt & John Parkinson. I recieved [ ] Letter 

from Ilus F Carter. I sent A Guardian to Joseph Russel. 

27th Sunday Elder Edson Whipple was with us to day. We held a meeting And had a good time. 

28th Elder Whipple spent the day with me. We conversed upon a great variety of things. 

29th [] } I recieved two letters from Brother Maxfield & Livingston. I wrote 2 letters to Max-field 
& Fallon & sent a paper to Ezra Carter. Took Cars rode to Lowell & spent the night at Peveys. 30 
m. 

30th I rode in company with M. C. Pevey to Peterboro & spent the night with J. C. Little. I dined 
with Br Leonard Hardy. 65 m. 

3 1st I rode with Brother Pevey to see his Mother who was 84 years old but abot House. Quite 
smart. I preached at night at Brother Leonard Hardy's to the Saints. 14 m. 

February 

Feb 1st I spent the day at Peterborough with Brother Little & Brother Hardy. I took up a Bill of 
goods on Brother Barns account of shoes, Clothes Harness &c to about $100 dollars. 

2d I rode Home to Cambridgeport & spent the night. I [] Recieved 5 letters on my return home 
from A W Babbitt D. Turner, J. Druce A. Bablam & J Johnson. Also the Portland Argus. 

3d Sunday I met with the saints in Cambridge-port. Elder Whipple Preached. I followed him. We 
had a good time. 

4th I had an interview with Br Whipple in the morning & conversed upon a variety of things. I 


Page328 




wrote 3 letters to D Turner } I. F. Carter & J Johnson. I went to Boston. Mrs Woodruff took cars 
for Portland to spend a week with her friends. 

5th I spent the day at home. It was an exeeding cold day. 

6th } * I wrote a letter to J G Hardy. It is still vary cold. I wrote letters to J. Gibson C E Brown & 
Dan Atwood. I recieved [] two letters from J. Gibson & C E Brown. I recieved the Portland 
Argus. 

? GDI recieved 2 letters from Shuah Moulton & O Huntington. I spent the day writing in my 
Journal. 

8th } I wrote two letters to John Druce & O Huntington. * The Papers this morning brought one 
months later news from San Francisco. The Steemer brought $2,000,000 in gold dust. Gave an 
account of a terrible fire in Sanfrancisco. One half of the town burned up. Lost $1,500,000. There 
had also been a fight between the Chilians & Americans. Some Americans killed & 15 taken 
prisioner. 

Among the list of Death I saw the name of Miles M Goodyear from Ct. He left home at 16 years 
of Age. Has lived among the Indians ever since. He was settelled 40 miles North of us at Cash 
valley. Brother James Brown bought him out. He went to the gold digings & there died. 

Yesterdays papers contained Also an account of the Bursting of A Steam Boiler in New York 
City, And raised a three story brick building from its foundation 8 feet, And dashed it to the Earth 
in a pile of ruins burying over 100 persons in the fall whose lives were lost. Many Calamities are 
visiting this generation. 

[] I recieved A letter from A Badlam who speaks of Coming home the first of next month. I 
Called upon Mrs Badlam. On my return home I found Elder Hardy. He spent the night with me. I 
recieved the 24th No of the Guardian which Contained An interesting letter from Elder John 
Taylor. I [] Recieved A letter from Ezra Carter. 

9th In company with Elder Hardy I rode to Bradford & spent the night with Br Samuel Hardy. 35 
miles. 

10th Sunday I Preached to the Saints. Was followed by Elder Hardy & others. I had a good 
meeting. I spent the night At Mr Burbanks. 

1 1th I Called upon [D/B?]r Samuel & Josiah Hardy. Then rode to Cambridgeport & spent the 
night at home. 35. 

12th I spent the day in part in Boston with Brother Hardy. I found Brother Ilus F Carter at my 
house on my return. I spent an hour with him And conversed upon A variety of subjects taking 
goods to the valley &c. 

Soon After He returned home Father Carter and Mrs Woodruff Arived from Maine. Father Carter 


Page329 




expects to spend A Month with us to make us A visit. Once more it probably will be his last visit 
with us. 

13th I went into Boston. Called upon the superintendent of the Rail Road to make a Contract to 
take out the Saints to Albany in the spring. I attended a lecture in the evening on Physiogiomy 
And it was quite interesting. 

14th [] I recieved two letters from Wm. Walker & Baldwin. 

15th * I visited the school in Cambridgeport during the exhamination And found good order & 
improvement. 

16th } I wrote 3 letters to C. N. Baldwin, Wm Walker & John Lute. 

17th Sunday I preached to the People & Administered to 1 sick. 

18th [] I obtained one letter from N. H. Felt. I walked into Boston with Father Carter. Visited the 
Medical College whare Dr Parkinson was murdered. We then visited other parts of the city. 

I Called upon Br Cannon 123 Washington street. He took my Daguerotype likeness And put it 
into a Bosom pin for Mrs Woodruff. Also one in a small Case. I engaged A Pair of lasts for my 
feet to make * Shoes & Boots upon And returned home after walking 8 miles. 

19th I spent the day at home writing. 

20th Elders Heywood & Woolley Called upon me to day from the valley. I conversed with them 
upon many things. I walked with them over Boston. They stop at B F Baker No 4 Rowe Place 
Boston. Their Shiping Houses are R. M. Livingston St Louis, C F Bud of New Orleans. 

21st []} I Recieved one letter from George H. Russell & wrote one to I F Carter. Brother Wallace 
called upon me to day on his mission to England. We Conversed upon things in the valley, and 
All the news all the brethren bring from the Valley is cheering to the soul. The time to favor Zion 
is in vary deed come. The Saints are prospering in all things. 

22d I 1 1 spent the fore part of the day reading in my Journal to Elder Wallace upon bygone days. 

23d [] } I wrote 3 letters to James Livingston T. Cartwright & J. Brown. I recieved one letter from 
F. D. Richards at New Orleans. I recieved the New York Herrald and other Papers And they are 
full of Alann Concerning the doings of Congress. It has become A hotbed of political warfare 
and most all parties are looking for the exploding of the union. 

The war spirit is increasing in the hearts of the people And deep judgment awaits the people 
nation. The hearts of men are failing them for fear of those things that are coming on the Earth. 
The Lord has said that in his fury he would vex the Nation And He is about to fulfill it. 

24th Sunday We were Favored with the Company in our meeting to day of Elders Wallace 
Heywood & Woolley & we had a glorious time. We all got the fire of Zion. I addressed the 


Page330 




Saints. Was followed by Elders Heywood Wooley & Wallace who spoke much to our 
Edifycation. I felt the spirit of God like fire shut up [in] my bones as I spoke upon the things of 
the kingdom of God. 

25th * I got one letter from Wm H Wilson. I went through the City of Boston with Br Woolley. 
Elder Cannan Called upon me in the evening. I Advised Him to prepare to go to St Louis As An 
agent with funds to buy Cattle. Elder Little called upon us & spent the night. The stage turned 
over twice with him coming from Peterboro & like to have broak his leg. 

26th [] } I recieved A letter from O. Pratt & Lady. I wrote 4 letters to B. S. Wilber J. Gibson Mrs 
Jeffreys & Wm. Low. I walked through Boston with Br Little. 

27th * I went into Boston with Brothers Heywood & Woolley & see them pick out their goods. 
Their hard ware was at Charles Scuddar &c 33 & 35 Granite Block pearl street Boston. A 
Crockery at Hellen & Co No 16, 18 20 Merchants Row, Boston. 

I spent the rest of the day in writing. I wrote 3 Letters to J. G. Hardy M Pevey :]■ & Lewis. 

28th * * I went into Boston. Bought A small Bill of Crockery for my families use. I had a busy 
day. I got one letter [] from Ilus F Carter. 

March 

March 1st This is my birth day. I am forty three years * of Age this day. The Lord has blessed me 
& preserved my life and Carried me through many dangers seene & unseen both temporal & 
spiritual for which Blessing I feel to thank my Heavenly father & Pray that I may still be kept 
And that myself & family may live to see another birth day & that it may find me in the Land of 
Zion with my friends. 

I wrote 5 Letters to 1 F Carter C E Brown O Hyde & S. B. Foss & H. Druce. 1 got the Guardian 
this evening which was quite interesting. 

2d [] I recieved 2 letters to day from Hus F Carter. 1 Called upon Brothers Heywood & Woolley 
then took cars for Portland. Arived in the evening, quite weary & spent the night. 110 m. 

3d Sunday 1 had an interview with Ezra & Hus Carter & Mr Shaw. I visited their store. Ilus F 
Carter had made up his mind to go to the valley with us. I accompanied Ilus in a sleigh to 
Scarboro. We Called at Father Carters & it seemed quite Lonesome as no one was at home 
except Mrs Carter & Mr & Mrs Plummer. We stoped at the place to wann then rode to Sister 
Foss. We there found Fabyan Sister Foss & family all busy. We stoped an hour, took tea gave 
some Council, & returned to Portland. And it was exeeding Cold. I became quite Chilled. 

I spent a portion of the evening with Ilus Ezra & Mr Shaw. I then went home with Mr Ezra 
Carter & spent the night. Miss Sarah Elizabeth Foss was residing with Brother Ezra Carter. 24 m. 

4th I left Portland in company with Mrs Judith Carter & her Daughter & returned to 


Page331 




Cambridgeport. 

I was quite unwell through my Cares & labours. I feel at times [it is] as much as I can stand up 
under, in having the labour & care of getting the Companies ready. I recieved A letter to day 
from } Walker Lewis. I wrote 1 letter to Horace G Gladwin. 110 m. 

5th [] } I recieved 3 letters from O Hyde Wm Low, & M C Pevey. I wrote 1 letter to Wm Low. 
This was an exeeding busy day. I * bought & packed up a stove. Also packed up a large Box of 
goods at home, looking glass, Clock, carpet rugs, Boots, shoes, pants drawers &c &c. Ilus F 
Carter spent the night with me. 

6th * [] In company with Mrs Judith Carter Mrs Woodruff I F Carter I went into Boston. Had an 
interview with Brothers Heywood & Woolley. After Consulting upon the subject of purchaseing 
a Bill of goods I Assisted in Purchaseing A Bill of goods mostly dry goods at the firm of Newton 
Eaton &c No 34 Pearl street to the Amount of $1,500. Then returned home & spent the night. 

I Paid Brother Woolley $245.00 for waggons & sundrys. I recieved one letter from J Gibson. 
Oliver R Dorrance of the firm of Newton Eaton & co proffered to supply any orders for goods 
that I would send for Hereafter. 

7th This was also A vary busy day. We continued our purchase to day. We bought A Bill of 
goods of J W Blodget & Co No. 26, 28 & 30 Pearl street. G. B. Samson, salesman of About 
$1,500. And A Bill of Crockery of Hellen & Co 16, 18 and 20 Merchants Row of $200. }I wrote 
A letter. I recieved $100 dollars from M. C. Pevey & gave it to M. Cannon to buy oxen for said 
Pevey. 

8th We Continued our Purchases to day for Mr Carter untill dark. We were all vary weary. I went 
to the rail Road Station with Father Carter early in the morning And had considerable 
conversation with him not knowing that we should ever meet again. I have had many an 
interesting visit with him. I re-cieved 2 letters from A. W. Babbitt And Mother Woodruff. 

9th [] :]■ I recieved 3 letters from S. B. Foss Luther & Rhoda Scammans & one from Fall River. I 
wrote 5 Letters to A. W. Babbitt L. Taft, Wm. Low, J Gibson, Wm H Wilson. 

I went to upper & lower Depo western rail Road & to the ship Beatrice & back home. Brother 
Uriah Nickerson spent the night with me. 

10th Sunday I preached to the people & spoke of Brother & Sister Cannon leaving us. 

1 1th I Paid M. Cannon $545 dollars to Buy Cattle with. I went over Boston to East Boston twice. 
I took 3,000 lbs of stationary & Books from the Eastern Depo to long wharf & put on board of 
the Ship Beatrice Also 900 lbs of Baggage for S. B. Foss. 

* 12th We had one of the heardest snow storms this morning that I ever saw. There was About 12 
inches of snow fell in 3 hours. I went into Boston with Ilus F Carter to continue the Purchase of 


Page332 




goods. We made a Bill of Hard ware Nails &c of $[ ] Also a Bill of $600 of Boots & shoes. 

Elder Allexander Badlam arived home to day from the gold diggings of San Francisco to 
Cambridgeport. He had been gone one year to that Country. He was truly glad to get home & we 
were glad to see him. He Brought $2,000 dollars worth of gold dust And He brought me A 
present of 9 1/2 oz. of gold dust as A present from several Brethren in the mines. And this begins 
to fulfill A portion of my Patriarchal Blessings which I recieved under the Hands of Father 
Joseph Smith in AD 1837. He said I should have access to the treasures hid in the sand to assist 
me in my necessities & in gathering many orphan Children to Zion. And it is begining to Come 
to pass. 

Brother Badlam Called upon me in the evening & we had a plesant interview together. 

[] } I received An interesting letter from Capt Joseph Russell. I wrote A letter to Joseph Russell. 
12 m. 

13th [] I received 8 Fetters from Ezra Carter sen Samuel Wells, F. C. Foss, Elder Kelsey & 
Wooster & Feonard Hardy & Ashland, & Amasa Fyman of San Francisco. I wrote } one letter to 
Sister Foss. I Bought to day A Bill of Groceries of Fevi Bartlet & Co. No 2 Fong wharf of $[ ]. 

I wrote one letter to N H Felt. I parted with M Cannon. 

14th [] } I received 1 Fetter from Mary Ann Pratt. I wrote 7 Fetters to F. Hardy M. C. Pevey 
Thomas Knowles, S. Wells Wm Ashland. Elder Cannon took his departure from Boston to day. I 
walked over the City with Ilus to day. He went to Portland & I returned Home. My Cares & 
Fabour are vary great thes days. 

Elder Badlam put into my Hands $200 sent from the gold mines to Thomas Knowles to help him 
to Zion. I sent him word that he might get ready to go with us. Brother Badlam Brought over two 
thousand dollars in gold for himself & considerable to cheer the Hearts of several individuals & 
to help them to Zion. Brother Badlam has been faithful on this mission. Has returned with gold 
sufficient to pay all his Debts Honorably & to go Comfortably with his family to the valley. He 
has Come home in good health & spirits & faith & the Ford has blessed him for which I feel 
thankful. 

} I wrote 2 letters to J. F. Heywood & Thomas Cartwright. 

15th [] } I received 2 letters one from George H. Russell one from Wm Page. I wrote to G. H. 
Russell. I Boxed up A one horse carriage wheels And all & shiped it on board the Beatrice. 
Brother Joseph Fabyan Carter & Sarah C Foss Called upon us & spent the night. 

16th [] } I received 2 letters one from I. F Carter one from A. W. Babbitt. I went over Boston with 
Fabyan Carter & got his likeness. Called at the ship. Sent A telegraph Notice to portland. I 
bought 2 otter caps & one hat & returned home. 

The following are the various names & firms in Boston whare our friends made there purchases 


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for Deseret Market: 


Charles Scudder & Co. Hardware No. 

33 & 35 Pearl Street $[ ] 

Newton, Eaton, Oliver B. Dorrance &c 

34 Pearl Street wollens $ 1 ,23 1 .33 

J W. Blodget & Co Dry Goods, B G. Samson 

tradesman 26,28,30 Pearl st $ 1 ,579.62 

Hellen & Co Crockery China Glass ware 

16, 18, 20 Merchants Row $ 183. 

Levi Bartlet & c wholesale grocers 

No 2 Long wharf $ 628.98 

Fogg Brothers Carpet Merchant 

91 Kilby Street $414.12 

Joseph Whitney & co wholesale shoedealers 

38, 40 Pearl street $ 750.38 

Samuel Curtis 123 Washington street 

looking glasses $[ ] 

S Atkerton & Co Leather 

25 Broad street $ 75.48 

Rice & Wason palm leaf Hats $ 9.75 

Sunborn & Carter Portland Maine 
Books & Stationery $ 902.19 

Whitarer & Sweeber No 4 Long Wharf glass $ 56.50 


17th Sunday I preached to the people. Was followed by Elder Badlam. 

18th } [] I wrote 6 Letters to T Cartwright A W Babbitt Little & Hardy & Mary Ann Pratt Ezra 
Carter Jr & Wm. Sweat. I received 3 letters from Erastus Snow, M. Cannon Wm Sweet. Ilus 
Called upon us to day. I went over Boston with him. He with his Lady spent the night with us. 

19th [] } I received 3 Letters from E Carter Little & Hardy & Shennan Bames. I wrote to Little & 
Hardy. 

20th [] I wrote 2 Little letters. * I received 5 letters from J G Hardy Harry Druce John Johnson J 
W Wilkings & Taft. I saw Ilus F Carter on board of the Beatrice bound for New Orleans. He 
parted with his wife & my family in the morning & set sail about 3 oclok in the afternoon. Went 
away in good spirits. 

21st []} I received 2 letters from Ezra Carter & Smith Tuttle. I wrote to N. H. Felt Little & Hardy, 
G. J. Hardy, Ezra Carter, & sent in it A Bill of Exchange. I gave Elder Badlam A letter of 
recommend. I walked over the city of Boston with Brother Badlam which is the last day that I 
shall walk in the streets of Boston with him for a long time. 


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We called upon Brother Barnes And upon Mr M. L. Ray Genaral Agent No 3 1/2 Commercial 
And I changed my route from the North to the Southern Route via New York Philadelphia They 
will ticket us through to St Louis for $14.50. We will start on the 9th April. 

Brother Badlam Called upon me in the Evening & Elder Wallace. We wrote together. 

The Fremont House was partly burned to day. The trial of Professor Webster has been going on 
in Boston for the last two days which has Caused great excitement. 

22d March [] f f /I wrote 1 1 letters./ 1 wrote letters to the following persons: H. Druce S. Tuttle C. 
E. Brown J. Johnson, Sherman Barnes, Nathan Eldridge L. Taft Samuel Wells, Mary Ann Pratt, 

S. B. Foss J. Hotinson J. Gibson Thomas MCKenzie T. Cartwright. 

23d [] } I received 5 letters from E. Carter Heywood John Druce Wm Walker, & C & [.] Scholy. 
I wrote [ ] letters to Wm Low C. E. Brown Wm Walker. 

The Steamer arived this evening & brought Professor Pratt from Liverpool. He arived at my 
house in the evening. We sat up at a late hour conversing upon the things of the kingdom of God. 

24th Elder Orson Pratt walked into the City with me. We met Elders Erastus Snow & J B. 
Wallace. We Called on the Revere House And then all went to my House. 

We met the Saints in the Afternoon. Elder E. Snow Addressed the meeting in an interesting 
manner. Gave an account of the dealings of the Lord with them in the valley. The faith of the 
Saints was tried to the utmost in the valley by the cricket war & other things they had to 
encounter but the Lord had deliverd them out of all their troubles. 

Elder Orson Pratt followed & also spoke much to our edifycation. We spent the evening to gether 
& conversed much upon A variety of subjects in relation to the kingdom of God and we were all 
Edifyed. He expected to increase the circulation of the Star from 500 to 20,000. Elder Snow sung 
several songs of Zion. We were all edifyed. 

25th [] } Elder Orson Pratt parted with me early in the morning & went on to New York. I wrote 5 
letters to D Turner, J. Druce Charles Scholy, & received Letters from 3 J M. Bernhisel, M. 
Cannon & Ezra Carter Containing a draft for $800 for Ilus. I wrote to T. Cartwright & sister 
Cummings. 

26th 0 [] f I wrote 3 letters to E. Carter J Shaw & J. M. Bernhisel. I received 3 letters from J. 
Gibson Maryweather & Haines. 

I visited the Court room to day & had a view of the Court Asembly, Council, Jury, & Criminal 
Professor Webster. The Criminal seemed nervous & excited. Sumthing was said About some 
keys. The Criminal took a Book out of his hat wrote a few words tore it out of the Book & sent it 
to his Council. Was the ownly thing I saw him do except sit & listen with Attention ownly. He 
would move his finger in a rapid manner at if [ ]. 


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Elder Snow spent the night with me. We conversed to gether untill near midnight. 

27th [] } I received the Frontier Guardian Also speech of Wm H Seward on the Admission of 
Calafomia And one letter from Ezra Carter Jr. Br Wm H. King & sister Aldrich Called upon us 
to day. I wrote A letter to F Merryweather. I Called into the Court house & saw Professor 
Webster who is now on trial for the murder of Dr Parkman. His Lawyier was making his first 
plea. The prisioner looked melancholy. It is thought He has not much chance at esscape. It was 
one of the most solutah assemblies for a court I ever saw. 

28th f [] * I wrote 9 Letters to N. H. Felt Thomas Cartwright David Haines, Wm [Ads?]head & J 
Gibson. It was A Cold severe snow storm through the day. I also wrote to Wm. Maxfield, Smith 
Tuttle, Wm. Low, & Amasa Lyman. I recieved two letters one from Smith Tuttle & Wm. Low. 
Elder Leonard Hardy spent the night with me. 

29th [] } $40. 1 received two letters one from Wm. Walker Containing $40 for Thomas Cartwright 
one from Ezra Carter. I wrote two letters one to Thomas Cartwright containing $30 to him one to 
Wm. Walker acknowledgeing the recept of $40. 1 walked through the City of Boston with Elder 
Hardy. I went into the Court room & saw Dr Webster. The testimony to day is in his favor. 

30th } [] I received 5 letters from J S. Shaw C. E. Brown Shuah C. Moulton James Mellen & 
speech of Mr Douglass. I wrote one Letters to Mellen, one to Shuah & Freedom Moulton. 

[] } Websters trial Closed to day & it was A serious solumn court. The Jury after being out A few 
moments brought in A verdic of guilty of Murder in the first degree And He was sentenced by 
the Court to be removed to Prision And at the time Appointed be taken to the place of Execution 
& be hung by the neck untill he was dead. 

I received 2 letters from Ezra Carter & J. Gibson. I wrote 2 letters Abram Boynton spent the 
night with us. 

3 1st Sunday I was sick through the day & mostly confined to my bed. 

April 

April 1st □ } I Received A Telegraph Despatch from M. Cannon of St Louis. I went into Boston. 
Was still unwell. E. Snow spent the night with me. 

2d Q 4 1 received A letter from Sister Cummings & wrote one letter to J M Bernhisel. Spent the 
day packing up. 

3d i 0 f I received 2 letters & wrote 5 letters to C. E. Brown D. Turner T Cartwright J S Shaw J. 
M. Bernhisel. Elder Erastus Snow took his departure from Boston to day on board of the Steemer 
for Europe. We are all vary busy packing up & getting ready to start for the valley again. 

4th [] } I received two letters from Shennan Bames & M. C. Pevey. I wrote A letter to Shennan 


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Barnes It was A rainy day. 

5th [] I received 2 letters to day from T Cartwright & R. H. Hinder Agent for Leaches line. 

6th A severe snow stonn. I received two letters & wrote [] } two to Orson Hyde & James Mellen. 
Ezra Carter sen spent the night with us. 

7th Sunday We had our last meeting in Cambridge port to day. I spoke to the saints. Was 
followed by Elder Wallace & others And took the parting hand with those who tarried. 

In the evening in Company with Ezra Carter Jr Elizabeth Foss & Mrs Woodruff I walked to 
Colleges. Also visited the House of Mr Geo W Webster the murderer of Dr Parkman. We 
returned home & spent the night. 1 . 

8th I 1 Mr Ezra Carter my Brother in Law took the parting hand with us this morning. It was rather 
Painful parting. He Returned home to his family in portland. We spent the day in packing up for 
a start. 

9th ■=(: I left Boston with 100 Saints Also my family & other relatives at 5 oclok took cars & 
steemer for New York. We were much Crouded on the boat yet we arived in safety in New York. 
I bought tickets through of Mr Ray for the company to Pittsburgh. Paid $ 1 1 each. He with Little 
accompanied us to New York. 240. 

10th We were Joined this morning by 100 more saints. We were visited by many friends from 
New York. We left New York at 5 oclok with 209 Saints. Travelled all night. Changed all our 
baggage & Freight twice amounting to 42,000 lbs. We arived in Philadelphia in the morning. 

100 . 

1 1th On our Arival we were Hurried in the greatest manner to unload our baggage & cart it to the 
rail road. Here it all had to be weighed over, And loaded into Cars. An extra train had to be 
prepaired for us. We started at 12 oclok. While on the rail Road one of the wheel gudgeon got 
dry & took fire. We stoped & fixed it. We arived at the Canal at mid night. Had to unload our 
baggage onto Canal section Boats. We had 3 boats Allotted to our company. As soon as our 
passengers & freight were on board our Captain started on his Journey & we travelled through 
the night. We found these section boats the most disagreable part of our journey. We were 
Crouded to gether like slaves in a ship & not more than half Could have the Chance to lie down 
at all. The Horse Stable was about the most comfortable place on the boat & the ownly saloon we 
had. Myself & wife were both nearly worn out with care & hard labour. 

12th Several were quite unwell this morning. Rode all day & night on the canal. 

13th A plesant morning but some hard snow squals before night. The air was filled with Snow 
which made quite a romantic Appearance Among the mountains. 

14th Sunday A Cold day. I preached to the company in Brother Hardys Section. Two were taken 


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sick. I administered to them And they were healed. 

15th We Arived at Holydaysburgh & took rail road to go over the mountains. We Arose the 
second incline plain & spent the night. Sister Allexander was taken in a fainting fit & Appeared 
as though she would die. I laid hands upon her with prayer & she began to recover & was well in 
the morning. 

16th We started in good season & Continued over the mountains in good order. Arived at the 
canal at sunset. The other two boats are behind. We road all night. Elder Boynton was taken quite 
sick. 

17th All well this morning. Cool but Cloudy. We continued through the day on the canal. 

18 A plesant day. We arived in Pittsburgh at 12 oclock. All quite as well as could be expected. I 
was visited by several Steem Boat Captains who wished to take our Company to St Louis. I 
finally made A Contract with Captain Devinney of the De Wit Clinton to take our company to St 
Louis on the following terms: Cabin passage $8, Steerage $2, freight 20 cts per 100 lbs. & He 
agreed to wait for our other Boats to come up. Most of us spent the night on board the section 
Boat. 

I received A letter stateing that the Hind Boat had met with an accident. Knocked a hole in the 
boat & detained them two days to mend it. Distance from Philedelphia to Pittsburgh [ ]. 

19th [] I Received another letter from the hind boat requesting us to tarry untill they come. The 
Second Boat containing Elder L Hardy & Company arived this morning. We unloaded both boats 
& weighed all the baggage & Carried all the baggage on board of the De Wit Clinton And 
assigned the Berths to the Company & we waited patiently for the Arival of the last Boat. 

20th We spent most of the day getting our baggage into the Hole of the Boat. 

2 1st Sunday We spent the day on board of the boat. 

22d Monday The last Boat arived this morning. We took all the Baggage & Company on board 
of the Steemer And assigned all their berths making 212 souls in all of our Company & we had 
nearly 200 other passengers in the steerage & cabin making near 400 passengers in all. 

23d We started about 4 oclok this morning down the Ohio. We travled well through the day. The 
Captain & all hands & officers on board are vary kind to me & all my Company. I never saw a 
Captain of a Boat take more pains to make A Company comfortable than Captain Devinney. 

24th The weather is delightful to day. The peach treees are all in Bloom upon each side of the 
River. We are sailing rapidly down the River. 

25th We Arived at Cincinnati at 1 1 oclok And spent the day & night Here. I called upon Brother 
Mary weather at the comor of Vine & Maine Street. Also upon Brother Miles the Presiding 
Elder. I learned that most of the Church had gone to Council Bluffs from this place. I found Br 


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Preston Here & took him on board with us making our company 213. 

26th We left Cincinnati about 12 oclok. We passed the residence of Gen Harrison. We glide 
smoothly down the river. There is a great rise in the River. The water is up near full Banks. We 
Arived at Louisville in the night & remained untill morning. 

27th We started this morning & went over the Louisville falls instead of going through the canal 
which saved one days time. We had a good time all day. 

28th Sunday The River is full Banks. A Hard storm of wind & rain raised A great sea on the 
River And in turning the Boat around to take in some Coal in the mids of the troughth & waves 
of the sea with a Heavy load & slender build she was in danger of Breaking in two. She trembled 
Creaked & bent untill many of the passengers were much frightend. She broke one of her stay 
bolts into But after taking in her Coal she started out again & travelled several hours in the storm 
& sea in the midst of danger but before night went in behind an Island & tied up for the night. 

0 Sister Cartwright was deliverd of A Daughter this evening. 

29th Run down to Paduka KY & spent several hours And continued down the River. Entered the 
Mi River at [2 ock\20 M?]. 

30th Br Brown was taken quite sick in the night. We have travled well through the day. 

May 

May 1st We arived in St Louis this morning. I was soon visited by Elders Heywood Felt & many 
of the Saints. It was A vary Busy day. In Company with N. H. Felt I made A Contract with 
Captain Baker to take up our Company on the Sacramento to Council Bluffs on the following 
terms: Cabin $13, Deck $4, freight 50 cts. The Sacramento Came along side the Clinton & took 
our freight on board which occupied most the day. I felt thankful to God that we had arived in St 
Louis in safety And no lives lost. And up to this time we had No death among us. Sister 
Margarett Bird was taken sick in the night with the Cholera. Mrs Woodruff went down to visit 
her & found Her Dangerously sick. 

2d ^ Sister Bird Died at 6 oclok this morning. She was laid out & the City authorities called 
upon to bury her. The sexton soon came with a Coffin. Brother Edwin Bird & one of the pioneer 
Company & myself laid her into the Coffin & she was carried out of the Boat [and] buryed by the 
sexton with no relative to follow her to the grave. It was A trying seene to the Husband, Children, 
Relatives, & Company. As soon as this was over we all had to go to with our mights to purchase 
goods provisions &c to get ready to leave at night. It was A Hard days work. 

1 settled up all my business. And the boat started at dark. And Brothers Leonard Hardy & Russell 
was left on shore. They afterwards came down & the Captain took them on. I went to bed worn 
down & nearly sick. I bought $40 dollars worth of groceries & provision: one ton flour, one 
stove. Took on bord 1 1 waggons for I. F. Carter. Learned that He had arived with the goods & 


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gone to Council Bluffs on the Mary Blane. All had gone well. Distance from Pittsburgh to St 
Louis [ ] Miles. 

3d We travel Slow against the Currant & are loaded to the guards. Some were afraid of the 
cholera on the boat as we had one death on board. I told the brethren not to have fears about it 
but to keep clean, exercise take the air & be faithful & watch unto Prayer & all would be well. 

4th We find we are blessed with a good Captain & officers on board of the Sacramento which I 
consider A great blessing to us. We travel Slow. It is Cold weather. 

5th Sunday a At 5 minutes past 6 PM Br & Sister Branch had their ownly child Irvin Harry 
Branch Die. He had been sick with the w[a?]rm fever for 10 days. 

At 7 oclok we past Jefferson City the capitol of Mo. We saw the place whare our Brethren that 
died on the Monroe were buried on the bank of the River. They were afterwards taken up & put 
in the burying ground. The State House stood upon an Eminance vary conspicuous. 

6th We stoped about 2 Hours at Bloomfield & Brother Branch went to the grave yard with two or 
three other Brethren had a grave dug & buryed his child. 

I obtained A paper Here which gave an account of the barren state of the plaines. No grass & 
oxen Could not live. Some were turning back. 

7th We have A severe Cold rain Storm most of the day. Quite a number on board of the boat are 
much troubled with a Bowel Complaint. I am troubled with it myself. Brother W. H. Brown has 
been sick some 10 days but is getting better slowly. We have thus far been blessed while on this 
River which is full of snares & dangers And I pray the Lord to preserve us unto the End. 

8th We still travel slow. We passed a large prairie & A flock of swan which was quite a sight to 
those who had never seen either before. I addressed the Saints in the evening & had to reprove 
some. 

9th ? I am quite unwell today. We are passing to day along the Banks of Jackson & Clay Counties 
whare the Saints have received such severe persecutions in former days. May the Lord Reward 
there persecuters according to their deeds. 

10th } I wrote 2 letters to day to Father Carter [and] to Luther Scammans. We passed Fort 
Leavenworth. Called at weston in the evening. Left some Freight & tried to run some in the 
night, but we run onto several snags as the river abounds with them. It is dangerous runing. 

1 1th A man came on board this morning and infonned us that many were coming back from the 
plains & selling out their teams & going home & so oxen were falling. No grass grown yet. 

The Mary Blane was at St Joseph Yesterday. It seems as though the world were vary blind to 
rush onto the plains in such vast Numbers to go to the gold mines before any grass grows to 
sustain the Oxen. We arived at St Josephs in the evening & spent the night. I called upon James 


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Townsend & Stephan Markham. 

12th Sunday We started from St Josephs at day light. I was infonned that 25,000 gold seekers 
Crossed at St Josephs & gone onto the plains. We see them on both sides of the river to day in 
the woods & on the prairie preparing to start out. It is A plesant day. I sat on deck & looked at the 
travelling caravans through my glass. We run onto A sand Bank in the evening & it took a hards 
night work to get off. 

13 th We were out of wood And all hands went on shore & cut a few Cords of wood to get along 
to whare some Could be bought. We took on several Cords about noon. It was A vary plesant 
day. 

14th } Early in the morning word was given out for the passengers to go on shore & walk up the 
bank of the river to lighten the boat so they could get up the sand bars. They went on shore. 

About two dozen men with some mules two women & children left the river & struck for the 
Bluffs so that when we got ready to take in the passengers those persons Could not be found. One 
woman was vary feeble with two Children. It was supposed they had fainted by the way side. The 
Captain & others rode miles in search of them. Could not find them. Came back & went on with 
the steam boat some 5 miles & found them all in a pile on the bank of the River. The woman 
nearly exhausted. It detained us several hours. 

We passed many dangers this day the river being full of snags, we stoped a few miles below fort 
Kearney for the night. I wrote to Brigham Young a letter of introduction to Dr S H. Tibbits. Also 
stated to him our Number whare we were &c. 

15th Arived at Fort Kearney early in the morning & left all passengers & freight except what was 
for the Bluffs. We then went on to Deseret Depo whare we arived about dark. We here found Ilus 
Br Badlam & many others. This is about 18 miles Below Kanesville. I spent most of the night on 
my feet taking charge of Baggage. 

16th I rode upon the Steamer to Kanesville & met with Br Gibson & many others. Distance from 
St Louis to Kanesville [ ] miles. Whole distance from Boston to Kanesville via New York 

Phil. Pittsburgh & St Louis [ ] miles. I went to Kanes-ville. Spent A little time with Elder 

Hyde then returned. Called upon Brother Alread & went on board of the Steamer & spent the 
night. 

17th The boat started early in the morning & I returned to Bethlehem or Deseret Depo And spent 
a Busy Day. 

18th * I wrode to Kanesville in Company with Elder Bablam. I saw Elder Hardy. Spent A little 
time with him. I then went to Elder Hydes. I there met with Elder Orson Hyde & Orson Pratt. I 
spent A long evening in Conversation with them. Elder Hyde wished me to lay before the 
Presidency in the valley the situation of affairs in Pottawatamie county Ioway. He wished me to 
say to them that all the men of Capital were leaving for the valley. Men from the East & England 


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that were able were going to the valley, And all the men that were living there that were able to 
make a fit out were talking of going. Another class who were able to get a fit out in part even 
able to get waggons were taken out by Bishop Hunter. So those that are left are the poorest part 
of [the] Community & if this order of things is continued A year or two more this County will be 
broaken up & the Saints will have to scatter abroad. The poor who come from the East & 
England who are to poor to go through are left upon our hands & Oxen are now selling in 
kanesville from $60 to $100 & when this Springs Emigration leaves there will not be left more 
than one Yoke of oxen to 7 families & the fields would not be ploughed or planted. 

He said He did not think that Kanesville & the Surrounding Country should be deserted or 
broaken up but if the Presidency wished it to be so He should not then object to it. 

He spoke upon the subject of opening large fields & farming upon a big scale by employing the 
poor brethren to work upon them. This He would like to do if He could be assured that He would 
not be Called away in a year or two after Commenceing it. 

He remarked if the presidency wished to evacuate the place or wished him to go any whare els 
He would go. He seemed to oppose the idea of Having the poor come to Kanesville to stop. He 
thought they had better Stay in the East or at St Louis, than to Come Here. I make this record to 
present to the Presidency according to his request. 

Elder O. Pratt wished me to say to the Presidency that there were many Elders in England of 
power faith & talent who had to labour hard to get bread for there families. And when Elders 
were sent to them from America who had not talent & could not edify them they felt it was A tax 
upon them that there own Elders were more capable to Edify them than those that were sent unto 
them. And when men were sent they should be such as Could Edify & instruct. I spent the night 
at Brother Hydes with Elder Pratt. 18 miles. 

19th * According to appointment I met in Conference with Orson Hyde Orson Pratt And the 
High Council near the stand in the grove one hour before the general meeting. Elder Hyde 
Addressed the Council in substance as follows: 

That there was business left unfinished at the conference which must be closed to day. As some 
officers are going to the valley others must be appointed. Bishop Johnson was going. Another 
Bishop must be appointed. Also men must be appointed to visit the various branches who would 
attend the Council & carry the spirit of the Council to the people & bring back the spirit of the 
People to the Council. Joseph Young & Benjamin Clapp who were appointed last Year were not 
with them at all either in Body or spirit & whenever they did attend A Council Joseph Young 
Could not stay till He went away. We will pass them over & let them go. 

Elder Hyde also remarked that it was necessary to make arrangements to receive the poor that 
had of late arived among us. I have given Council through the guardian for the poor not to come 
here & some have Contrary to this Council through a misguided zeal Councilled them to come to 
this place & such must bear the Consequences of it. It was voted that A Bishop be appointed to 


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take the place of Bishop Johnson, & that Elder Stodard be appointed to travel among the 
Churches & Call such men to his help as He needed. Three men were Appointed as A Committe 
to locate the poor. 

We then repaired to the Stand before the congregation & each item of business was presented 
before the people the same as before the Council And a vote taken upon each item. Elder Hyde 
made many remarks upon each item as they came up before the people. Among other things said 
that the Priesthood & Saints Held the keys of Blessings in there own hands & said we have not 
had but one shower of rain this year or since last fall & we have not seen the bow in the Heavens 
at all this season. The earth is parched up & dry now. If you want rain open your doors & receive 
the poor And you will have the Blessings. The people said they would do it & Elder Pratt Prayed 
for rain. Elder Hyde Also wished the Sin Curse & evil that arose in that place from the grog 
shops should rest upon the Head of those who kept such dogeries & the people Said Amen to it. 

In the Afternoon Elder O. Pratt Preached to the people in an Edifying manner. Spoke Also 
against the Grog shops Also of his travel in England the progress of the work in that land the 
many thousands who were Coming into the church the great increase of the publications the 
opposition that was begining to be manifest against them. Spoke of the signs of the times the 
building of the city of Zion the peculiarity of that city having A piller of fire by night & a Cloud 
by day resting over the Habitations of the saints. Elder Pratt spoke quite lengthy upon these 
points. 

When He Closed He was followed by Elder W. Woodruff who spoke briefly upon a few item. He 
manifested much pleasure in once more meeting with the Saints. Said He had been on a mission 
to the East nearly two years. He Could not give so flattering account of matters as Elder Pratt 
Had for the field in the Eastern States had been like the gleaning of grapes after the vintage was 
done. Thare had been Baptized in his field of labour about 200 since he had been on his mission. 

As there had been much said about the poor coming to kanesville Elder Woodruff remarked that 
He had recieved Council from the Presidency in the valley to stretch out his arms and gather all 
He possibly Could to Zion. And when the Lord tells me to do any thing or I receive Council 
through the proper Sourse I go at it with all my might. And I can neither eat Drink or sleep in 
peace except the work that is required of me to be performed is progressing about right. I have 
laboured hard to gather out the people according to the instructions given me. One Company 
started from Philadelphia under Elder Gibson of [ ]. I Also started from Boston on the 9th 

with 209 And from St Louis with 225 & we arived here in safety & there are a few poor who 
came with me who cannot go through & will stop here & if in my zeal to carry out the instruction 
of the Presidency I have been instrumental in causing more poor saints to come to Kanesville 
than ought to have come it has been an Error of the head & not of the heart. 

I feel to sustain Elder Hyde in the course He has taken here in taking a stand against drunkenness 
gambling stealing Bogasmaking & iniquities of all kinds. There is order in the kingdom of God. 
The Presidency of the Church are the first to receive & give instruction to the whole Church & 


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Elder Hyde is the president in this place & the one to receive & give instructions & He is 
accountable for his course to the Presidency of the Church. 

Other remarks were made & was followed by Elder Hyde who said that what Elder Woodruff 
had done was all right & would work for good & other remarks were made. He then gave council 
for the Brethren who had farms to sell & were thinking of going to the Valley to take this as an 
omen that it was right for them to go if they could sell them for what they were worth to sell 
them & go. If not to stay and till them unless they felt disposed to give them to some poor 
brethren. 

The conference was dismissed & though there had not been a shower of rain but once since last 
fall & the bow had not been seen since last year yet as soon as meeting was dismissed the Clouds 
gatherd the rain poured down the Bow appeared And it was a matter of observation with many of 
the world as well as Saints. I spent the night at Elder Hydes. 

20th In company with Elder Badlam I rode to Bethleham & was weary when I arived home. 18 
miles. 

211 spent the day at home. Ilus Carter took the boat & went to St Josephs to buy oxen. Took with 
him $1,300. A. O. Smoot took $400 to buy Cows. R. C. Petty took $300 to buy Oxen. 

22d [] I Received 3 letters while at Kanesvill from Shuah Moulton, from Harwich, & Mary Ann 
Pratt. I spent the day at home writing. 

23d 24, 25 I spent the time preparing the waggons for the Journey. 

26th Sunday I spent the day writing. There was a meeting in Camp. 

27th The Brethren are buying Oxen & paying from $45 to $80 per yoke. 

28th I spent the day in Camp. 

29, 30 & 3 1st I spent the time in Camp labouring hard. 

June 

June 1st Ilus Returned home at night. Had bought 19 yoke of oxen & two Horses. Had a hard 
time in Driving. 

2d I preached to the people in the evening at Bethleham. 

3d In Company with Br Bird I rode to Kanes-ville & spent the night with Br Hardy. 18 mil. 

4th I Attended the sale of 40 yoke of oxen & bought two yoke. Was in the rain & mud all day. I 
dined with Br T. D. Brown, & spent the night with Br Hardy. 

5th I had a hard ride after lost cattle. Found them & drove them to Bethleham. 18 mils. Elder O 


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Hyde went down & organized some companys. 

6th I rode to Mr Modys & bought 5 yoke of wild oxen & drove them Home. 12. 

7 & 8th I was quite unwell but worked in camp. 

9th Sunday I spent the day at home at work in Journal writing. 

10th 1 1th 12th 13 & 14th I spent the time labouring hard to prepare the camp to cross the ferry. 
15th We commenced to cross the Mo River to day. 

16th I received instructions from Elder Hyde to organize our company whether they were few or 
many. I organized in part, but Could not in full untill I crossed the River. 

16th Sunday We finished crossing the river to day. It was a tedious job. 

17th We Encamped on the Hill but the woods bushes & rattle snakes made it bad Herding Cattle. 
18th We spent the day on the Hill. 

19th We left Rattlesnake Hill & travelled 5 miles to a creek & camped for the night. 6 miles. 

20th I returned to Bethleham. Bought some Articles & returned to Camp. 12. 

21st * I Called the Camp together & organized them in the following order: We Appointed 


Robert Petty 
Leonard W Hardy 
Edson Whipple 
Joseph Hall 
James Curries 
Miner Atwood 
[ ] Gardner 

[ ] 

[ ] 


Captain of the first Hundred 
Captain of the first fifty 
Captain of the Second fifty 
Captain of the 1st Ten 
Captain of the 2d Ten 
Captain of the 3d Ten 
Captain of the 4 Ten 
Captain of the 5th Ten 
Captain of the 6th Ten 


Total [ ] persons [ 


] waggons [ ] cattle [ ] Horses [ ] sheep 


Remarks were made by W. Woodruff Concerning the order of the Camp regulations &c. Strongly 
opposed drunkenness Swareing, gambling, whiping oxen &c & was followed by Captain Petty 
who sustained the remarks made by W Woodruff. 

Ilus F Carter Had ten waggons of merchandize & was appointed Captain over them but in 
consequence of the lateness of the season Be Concluded to return home so we made out the 
report of the organization to send to Elder Hyde by him. 


22d We Parted with Brother Ilus F. Carter this morning who left his business in my hands. He 


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started to return Home. We took up our oxen & drove to squaw creek & camped for the night. 8 
miles. I find it much more Hilly than on the North route. 

23d Sunday We travled to rock Creek in the rain & camped for the night. 8 mils. 

24th A Hard rainy day. We lay in Camp. I have in my possession 12 waggons 27 yoke of oxen 30 
cows, including Mr Carters Merchandize which makes me A vast amount of labour & Care & we 
have in our company several men as drivers who are of the world which is more difficult to 
manage than the Saints. 

25th A hard rainy day. 

26th Rainy And vary bad Roads And vary hard Journeying for man & beast. 

27 Our Jentile teamsters manifested much of the spirit of the Devil And tried to make 
disturbance. We passed the grave of John C Campbell & a Child buried to day from Br Snows 
Company of Cholera. 

28 Our Teamsters had another blow up this morning. 5 or 6 gold diggers who were driving 
baggage waggons said they would leave. Their object was to take advantage of our situation & 
Compel us to pay high wages for driving. I told them they might quit as quick as they pleased 
And they would none of them go. I turned off Williams the ring leader & the rest went on & were 
more Bumble. We crossed Salt Creek to day. 

2 ^ Br Samuel Smith Died of Cholera at 8 oclok at night Aged 43 years. Brother Badlam & myself 
laid him out in his Robes. Laid him on the ground in his tent. But we had but Just got it done 
untill A tremendious thunder Storm over took us. Blew the tent down. We had to cover over the 
corpse & let it lie untill morning. 

29th We buried Brother Smith this morning & Continued our Journey. Dr Braily was buried on 
the South Side of Salt Creek this morning by Joseph Young & co. 

30th Capt Joseph Hall drank free of slew water & in an hour was taken with the Cholera & died 
after 12 hours sickness. We all felt His loss. He was vary useful to the Camp. 

July 

July 1st We dug Capt Halls grave. Be had 4 men with him who made a Covenant together that 
should any one of them die on the road they would not bury them the same day so to be true to 
their Covenant they remained with the body through the day. We Continued our Journey & At 
night camped with A company of Brethren from the valley with the Mail. Brother Campbell Had 
Charge of it. We met in the evening herd the list of Letters read over several songs of Zion sung 
& A cheering account of good news related from the valley. 

2d We parted with the Brethren from the valley. They go East, we west. A plesant day. We have 
had much rain of late & the roads were bad. We passed several graves to day. 


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3d Matilda Hardy died of consumption this morning at 2 oclok. Was buried this morning. 

4th We spent the day in Camp on the Bluff before going on to the platt Bottom. Washing Baking 
Black smithing was Attended to. Lucy Johnson was taken sick at the river with the Cholera. 

5th Lucy Johnson Died this morning at 3 oclok & was buried before we left Camp. Susan 
Woodruff was taken sick suddenly with extreme pain in all her limbs & Could not move a hand 
or foot without her schreaming. We Administered to her & she was healed. Phebe was also taken 
sick. We Administered to her & she was healed. 

Mrs Woodruff was also quite unwell. There is some sickness & death in all the Camps we have 
heard from. 

6th {Mrs Snow} Mrs Snow of Cambrldgeport was taken sick in the Afternoon with Diarhea. 
Took some Medicine called Cholera Medicine & immediately grew worse & Died at 3 oclok at 
night. We travled 20 miles to day over A bad road on to the platt bottom & camped for the night 
by a slew. 

7th Sunday We rode 5 miles & camped on the Banks of the Platt whare there was wood & water 
with both of our divisions Also Brother Gibson ten & Brother Snows Company. We had a 
meeting together at 4 oclok. 

8th Drove 18 miles & camped. 

9th Drove 17 miles & camped. Had a Thunder Storm. 

10th Drove 20 miles on the Platt. Camped on the bank of the River. I Baptized 14 Persons for the 
remission of sins & confirmed them & 2 for Health. (EH} Emily Huntington Died & was buried 
this day. She was A Saint Aged 24. 

1 1th Elder L. Hardy was sick. I laid Hands upon him & He was Healed. I had two Teamsters 
whose names was Graham. Their conduct was disgraceful in evry sense of the word. They would 
steal, lie, sware, & do almost evry evil thing in their power And we came to the conclusion to 
Cast the Family out of Camp, for their wickedness. 

12th The Graham family all left Camp this morning with Williams & went ahead. We felt that 
we had got red of many Evil spirits. We continued our journey. Had a Hard Thunder storm at 
night which scattered our Cattle much. I think the road on the north side of the river is much the 
best for wood & water. 

13th It took us several Hours to gather our cattle. We started about 10 oclok & travled 12 miles 
& camped with both divisions in one Carall for the Sabbath on the banks of the Platt 10 miles 
East of Fort Carney. 

14th Sunday A tremendious wind & Thunder stonn in the morning & through the night. I had A 


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fine ox die through bursting A Blood vessel. We held A meeting in the Afternoon. 

15th } I wrote A letter to I F Carter at Fort Kamey. I visited the fort. During the Evening we were 
visited with A terrible Thunder storm. The lightning struck all around us & while the teams were 
crossing A slew the lightning burst into their midst & shocked many persons & beast & it killed 
3 oxen & one man dead. It was Brother Ridge from Lane End Staffordshire England that was 
killed & his team. He was buried in the evening. He belonged to Elder Whipples fifty. I Bought 2 
1/2 yoke of oxen of Mr Booth at the fort. I had of Wallace $80 Elizabeth Foss $10 Father 
Atwood $25 Wilford $5.75 to buy them with Two Teamsters Left. I got two more. 

16th After I got my oxen I drove 15 miles & camped on the Bank of the platt. 

17th Travled 25 miles & Camped near plum creek. 

18th Robert C Petty lost a child 6 month old. It was buried in the morning. 

19th Travled 20 miles. Camped on the bank of the Platt. I rode with Mrs Woodruff onto the 
Bluffs. Took a survey of the Country. Had prayers in A Cavern & returned to camp. We passed 
many graves of the gold diggers to day. I rode into the Bluffs through the day. Found A flat level 
fertile Country back of the Bluffs. 

20 Robert C Petty was taken sick with the pleuricy in the side to day. His Teamster Mr Stickney 
is dangerously sick. We travled 18 miles & camped on the platt. 

21 Sunday Brother Petty is dangerously sick this morning. We Administered to him. Mrs 
Woodruff & Mrs Foss both had dreams last night that appeared to be omens of death or distress. 
We lay in camp to day. Many of our Oxen have sore necks & lame feet. We held A meeting in 
Camp. 

22d Travled 8 miles. Capt Petty was still dangerously sick. 

23d I went for ward of my Company to find the Cold Cottonwood Spring but passed it & did not 
find it. I went on to Wm. Snows Company & spent several hours with him & took dinner of fresh 
Buffalo meat. They killed 3 the day before. We have just struck the Buffalo range. Our Company 
killed An Antelope. I had 1/4 of it. We camped for the night on the platt. Our men broke one 
Tongue to day. 

24th This is the day of Selebration in the valley. We lay still in Camp. 

25 Three Buffalo was killed to day. I killed one of them. We travled 8 miles & camped on the 
platt. 

26 We travled 16 miles & Camped on the platt Shore above the lower Crossing. We found a 
Cold Spring. A soldier killed himself drinking out of it. 

27 Crossed the Bluffs 6 miles. Camped by a grove of timber & made a cole pit. 


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28 Sunday We stayed in camp. I had A severe Attack of? Sickness. I was Administered to & 
took herb tea & was better at night. I did not set up any through the day. 

29th * The Encampment of both divisions had A meeting. Hardy & Whipple both Addressed the 
meeting. 

(July 30th 1850} * * Our Encampment or the first division of it was called to pass through one of 
those Horrid scenes to day which are so much dredded by all Emigrating Companies on the 
plaines which was A stampede of all the ox teams with the family waggons of the first division 
with the exception of the 10 Baggage who were in the rear. No person who has not Experienced 
or witnessed one of those dredful scenes cannot fonn any Correct idea of them And it is almost 
impossible to give A Correct description of it for to behold 30 or 40 ox teams from 2 to five yoke 
of oxen in each team Attached to a family waggon of goods & women & Children All in an 
instant like the twinkling of an Eye be deprived of all reason sens & government & be filled with 
madness frantic & fright & all dart off with lightning speed each running their own way, roaring, 
bellowing rolling & tumbling over each other waggons upsetting smashing their wheels Exles & 
tongues spilling the goods women & Child in the street, for the next teams to trample under their 
feet as they roar & charge on their way with their yokes bows & chains flying in evry direction is 
A scene not easily imagined or described. A Stampede of Ox teams is much more horrid than 
Horse teams As there is Bits in the Horses mouth that He may in A great measure be guided 
though under full speed. But not so with the ox. He goes where ever his fancy or will may lead 
him. 

This stampede in the following manner, commenced: Willford commenced getting onto his 
Horse & while getting on William Murphy started his horse into A run & the Horse flung 
Willford over his head onto the ground. The saddle turned under His belly & He run And As He 
Approached one of the waggons Mr Cannons team became frantic & dart off with great speed & 
in A moment 20 or 30 Teams followed the same Example. And the whole Encampment 
Apparently was rushing into the jaws of Death. 

I was by my carriage when it commenced drawn by A Noble fine black Steed. Rhoda Foss & 
Susan Woodruff was in the carriage at the Head of the Company. At this moment I saw Mrs 
Woodruff rush into the midst of the scene whare she was in danger of her life evry instant with 
many other women & children. I told Rhoda to let the Horse run into the Bluffs & do the best she 
could. I hit him A Blow to start him into a run & left them to their chance & the Care of 
providence & rushed into the midst of the stampede to try to save the life of my wife & as many 
others as possible. But I had hard work to save my own life. 

Mrs Woodruff soon found An opening & fled out of the midst of it. Brother Pettys two waggons 
was turned over. My family waggon with 4 yoke of oxen run over one of his waggons & A 
waggon run over one of his children. Brother Badlam waggon or team run over one of Samuel 
Hardys children. Prescott Hardy was knocked down by his own team & badly wounded in the 
thigh & ann. 


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Whareever I saw women or children in danger I done what I Could to rescue them. Little can be 
done at such times ownly for each one to dodge the best He can & save his own life if possible. 
When I found I could do no more for the encampment in general I run forward to see what state 
my Carriage & family waggons & family was in. I found my Noble Horse still A running but on 
three legs. Rhoda was knocked out of the Carriage & Susan was lying flat upon the Bottom with 
her feet hanging out between the wheels & she was screaming aloud. I hollowed for her to hold 
on untill I come. She did so untill I Caught the Horse by the bit & Stoped him & rescued Her. 
One of the Ox teams Had run onto the Horse & Carriage. Had bent one of [the] exes smashed 
one of the Horses legs to peaces & knocked Rhoda out of the carriage. 

As soon as I got the Horse out of the Carriage I went through the Encampment to see who was 
dead & maimed And I was Asstonished to find that no one was killed & but one badly wounded 
& but little damage done to waggons or oxen. And to look it all over it looked like a miracle to 
see how so many escaped. I had to Shoot my Horse to get him out of his misery which was 
painful to me but I was thankful my wife Children & friends were well & their lives preserved. 

3 1st Elder L Hardy was vary low to day And I am nearly worn out with Hard labour & care. We 
travled 2 1 miles & camped on the Bank at the crossing of the south fork of the Platt 20 miles 
from Ash Hollow. 


August 

Aug 1st We forded the Platt River with our teams to day. It was A Hard days work. It required 8 
or 10 yoke of oxen to draw A Ton across the river. It was about half a mile across. I got some 
goods wet. 

2d We lost 20 Head of Oxen which detained A part of the waggon. I started out all that were able 
to go. The rest of us went out to Hunt Cattle. I found them in the bluffs in a bason & drove them 
into camp. The men many of them had gone Hunting Cattle. I yoked the oxen & with the 
assistance of women & children I drove the encampment on & soon the men returned from 
Hunting oxen. They found their encampment gone & followed on & over took us. We got along 
well untill we came to go down those tremendious Bluffs into Ash Hollow. Here Watts & Bess 
both smashed each a Hind wheel to peaces & broke evry spoke out. I worked untill eleven oclok 
at night to get the broken waggon into Camp & then left them by the way side & walked into Ash 
Hollow & camped for the night wearied out. 20 m. 

3d The day was spent setting tire & mending waggons. 

4th Sunday I spent the day in Camp. Had a meeting with the Saints As my men had broken down 
two wheels & I must stop to mend them I Advised Elders Hardy & Petty to go on with the first 
division & I would stop & mend up & keep some of the 2d Division with me. This Council was 
heard by the first Division with great surprise. They Did not feel that they could leave me. There 
was much feelings upon the subject. 


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5th The first Division left according to my Council though with great reluctance. I spent the day 
at Ash Hollow mending waggons. We had good Cold spring water in this Hollow which was a 
great Benefit to the camp As most of the water we had to drink on the way was either slew or 
platt water And seemed to be unhealthy. 

6th We spent the Day setting waggon tyre. 

7th Wednesday After setting 80 tyre fitting two wheels all new putting in some tongues & 
Hounds we left Ash Hollow & Continued our Journey. We travled 5 miles through deep sand 
And Camped with Brother Whipple who went they day before. We made two Divisions of our 
Company. 5 mile. 

Elder Whipple & Gardner was organized with me. We Called ours the 3d Division. We had 26 
waggons & the 2d Division 18. We made this Division to forward us on our journey as we would 
travel faster with few than many together. 

8th We travled 12 miles through Deep sand in the region of Castle Bluffs & Camped on the platt. 

9th Travled 15 miles through deep sand & camped on the platt in sight of Ruin Bluffs on the 
South side of the river. Some of the Soldiers who went to Larimie returned & Camped by us to 
night. They reported that President Taylor was Dead. 

10th Travled 18 miles & camped on the Platt 25 miles east of Chimney Hock. 2 & 3d Division 
Camped together. 

1 1th Sunday morning Our men found A large splendid Bull on the north side of the river. They 
went over & Drove him across the river to our herds. We have many lame oxen & Cows which 
we doctered this morning. We spent the day in Camp. Held A meeting at 2 oclok. Elder Whipple 
Addressed the meeting upon the first principles of the gospel. Spoke of the difference between 
Jew & Gentile. I followed him in few words. 

12th Travled 18 miles. Camped within 6 miles of Chimney Hock. 

13th I visited Chimney Hock in Company with others. Br Branch measured the base of the 
foundation or mound upon which the main shaft or pillar stands. Found it to be about 600 yards 
in Circumference, 100 feet high from the base. The pillar is 50 by 25 feet in diameter & holds 
nearly that proportion about 125 feet High making about 225 feet high from the base. The whole 
Column appears more of a hard clay formation than Rock except A few veins runing through it 
of white stone. 

We travled around it & clumn the pillar as far as possible. Mrs Woodruff myself & many others 
engraved our names as high up the piller as possible. The whole Appearance of Chimney Rock 
would indicate that the Ancient Nephites or some one els had built the mound & erected a great 
tower upon the top of it. And the whole formation of the Bluffs in this region of Country Appears 


Page351 




more like the ruins of Ancient Cities than of Nature. We had a Hard Thunder storm & travled 
several miles in it. We camped 6 miles east of Scotts Bluff. 

14th Travled to scotts & Elder Allexander Badlam & myself explored Scotts Bluffs from top to 
Bottom for About 10 miles. They had many Grand fonnations of Nature. In some places we 
rolled of large rocks of near a tons weight that would go thundering down the mountains & into 
the vale beneath levelling the ceders to the earth & starting the woolves from their Hiding places 
as it bounded on its way for half a mile from its starting point. 

After spending several Hours of Hard labour though plesantly Among those grand lofty ruins or 
Bluffs we left them & returned to Camp. We passed Burdoe trading post. He inquired for me but 
I did not see him. Brother Currier turned his waggon bottom side upwards down A Bluff. Broke 
things bad. The Indians tried to raise A stampede among us but did not do it. Travled 20 miles & 
Camped. 

15th Rode to Horse Creek & camped. 12 miles. Good grass & water. 

16th Drove 16 miles without water. Camped on the platt. 

17th Drove 12 miles & camped on the Platt near Indian lodges. The Indians had the small pox. 
Many Died with it. One child left to Die. The lodges deserted. The child cralled out. Came 
towards us as we passed by for bread. We gave him some to eat. 

18th A rainy day. Drove to Laramie fork. Crossed it. Went to Fort Laramie. Drove 1 1/2 miles 
from Laramie. Camped on the Platt. Had a Cold rain storm through the night. 

19th The rain continued through the day. An exceding Cold day through the day & night. 

20th I have one fine ox dead this morning. The Camp moved on 5 miles & camped. We remained 
in camp. I traded some. 

21st I Bought three yoke of Oxen at $60 each. I went on to our encampment 5 miles & spent the 
night. 

22d Travled over the Hills to Bitter Creek 15 miles & camped. 

23d We travled 20 miles on the river road & camped for the night on the platt. Saw one Buffalo. 

24th I met with Elders J. A. Stratton & Hanks sent as messengers from the valley to look out 
camping places & feed for the companies through the Mountains. They travled with me through 
the day. They brought A good report of things in the valley. We Camped on the platt. Had A 
meeting. Herd the Letter of instructions from President Young read to us. 

25th Travled 18 miles & camped on the La Borte. Brother Stratton camped with us. We travled 
to gether through the day. 

26th Elder Whipple took some of my loading to carry one sack of Coffee from Bess wagon 160 


Page352 




lbs 1 Box of paper from Watts waggon 200 lbs. We travled over 17 miles of the worst road on 
the Journey. Our oxen wearied out & darkness overtook us in the Hills. We camped on a branch 
or near the La Prele river. We find but little of any grass for cattle in this region & expect to find 
grass vary short on much of the journey. The first & 2d Division of our company was camped on 
this creek. They killed two Buffalo this evening. 

27th Hardy & Morfet companies moved on. We found 92 of our oxen gone this morning & know 
not whare to find them. Men went out in evry direction & returned & could not find them. Two 
Horsmen went back on the road 6 miles & tracked them back on the road to a small creek & lost 
track of them. Returned at night & brought 3 oxen with them. 

I went on to A High mountain & with my glass could explore the country for many miles. I saw 
many Herds of Buffalo on the platt Bottom. Brother Stratton & Atwood followed A Grisley Bear 
A distance But did not kill him. Sommers shot At A Panther near camp. Did not kill him. The 
Country abounds with Buffalo, Elk, Deer, Antilope Bear, Panther, woolves, &c. 

28th Our situation seems to be serious this morning Having Lost more than half our cattle Elders 
Stratton Hanks & Whipple started on Horsback after the oxen & 4 men on foot to try once more 
what could be done. I staid in camp & took care of the Herd. 

29th The brethren returned & brought in 39 of our oxen. 

30th The Brethren brought in the remaineder of our Oxen all but 4. Brother A. O. Smoot brought 
in about 30 of them. The other 4 could not be found. 

I went out with several of our men to get some meet. I killed one Buffalo & capt Bess & co one 
Buffalo. I got mine into Camp. They did not get any of theirs in & the wolves eat it up at night. 
We were all much rejoiced to Hear that our cattle were found so that we could continue our 
Journey. 

3 1st We travled 1 1 miles & camped on the platt. 

September 

Sept 1st Sunday We travled 13 miles & crossed Deer Creek & camped on muddy creek. Saw Br 
Smoot. 

2d Travled some with Brother Smoot. We travled 13 miles & camped near the upper crossing of 
the platt. 

3d We forded the river without difficulty but for severel Days we have had much Difficulty in 
finding grass for our oxen. 

4th Travled 8 miles. Camped on the Platt. A. O. Smoot camped near us. We drove our oxen cross 
the river for feed. 


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5th Travled 14 miles. Camped on the willow springs. The creek was full of Dead Cattle. Also the 
road is strewed with Iron of almost evry description tyre, bars plates chains Boxes waggon Irons 
of all kinds. We found no grass for our oxen. 

6th Travled 16 miles. Camped on the greese wood near the sweet water 8 miles below 
independance Rock. Brother Hanks Caught A wild mare the fatest & most beautiful Animal of 
the Horse kind I ever saw. He run by the side of Her on a small bay Horse flung A larriett over 
her Head flung himself from his Horse onto the ground. The wild Horse drew him half a mile 
over the sage plains untill she was stoped by being choacked down. She then tryed to bite, kick & 
strike him but He fought her by whiping her with A rope untill He conquerd Her & led Her in 
triumph into camp. 

7th We travled 8 miles & camped under Inde-pendance Rock. A O Smoot Camped A mile Above 
on the sweet water. Men women & children went onto the rock to visit it. Some wild Animal 
supposed to be A Panther Jumped onto one of my cows & nearly killed her. 

8 Sunday We travled 15 miles. Camped on the sweet water. In company with Mrs Woodruff & 
several other Ladies I [went?] through the whole length of the Devels gate. 

9th Travled 9 miles to the sandy Bluffs & camped. I shot One Antilope. Cut his throat with a 
Bullet. 

10th I turned off Mr Case Hedges & Summers went also. It was no loss to us As they were 
stirring up strife daily. We travled 8 miles & camped on the sweet water. 

1 1th I went on to the Mountaim Saw two salaratus Lakes 1 mile North of the sweet water. I 
travled 16 miles & camped at the Ice Spring But we found it A poor place to Camp. All swamp 
& salara-tus water. A O Smoot Camped also there. 

12 We crossed the 5th Crossing of the sweet water by the guide & travled 15 1/4. Some cattle 
gave out. I had hard work to get them into Camp. 

13th The air feels like snow this morning. The wind River chain of Mountains is in sight coverd 
with snow. We travled 6 miles & camped on the sweet water. We killed A Cow for Beef [in] the 
Evening of Br Whipples. I had about 200 lbs for the men. 

14th We travled 14 miles the whole Distance of Strattons New cut off or road. It was 3 miles 
further & 5 miles [west?] without watering or feeding our oxen on the road. The road ought not 
to be travled. 

15th Sunday We travled 6 miles & camped at the crossing of the sweet water 8 miles east of the 
south pass. Brother Woolley and his Company camped near us. Brothers Woolley & N H Felt 
Attended our meeting in the evening & we had A lengthy meeting. They preached some strong 
doctrin for some of the Congregation. We had a good meeting And the spirit of the Lord was 


Page354 




with us. 


16th A plesant morning. We travled to the South Pass. I here found Capt Petty & Hardy & 
company camped on the sweet water. Capt Hardy was stuck fast. One yoke of His oxen had died 
& the Indians Had stolen his Horses & He could not move. He was furnished with A team & we 
all moved on to the Pacific springs & camped. Distance 16 miles. We turned our cattle on to the 
ground of the pacific springs. It was all quagmire yet covered with grass. I waided to my knees in 
mud & water untill midnight among the oxen to keep them from the mire. 

17th * * * Our encampments started on their Journey about noon. I mounted my wild mountain 
ranger & in company with Brother Atwood I started in search of the Indians who had stolen Br 
Hardys Horses. They were encamped at the foot of the wind river chain of mountains. When we 
came in sight of them they were moving. We headed them on the sweet water whare they stoped 
and pitched their lodges. Their was about 500 Indians & 1,000 Horses. 

I had an interview with the Chief. Infonned him that they had got three of our Horses And I 
wanted them. I made him some presents. They were the Snake Indians going to war with the 
chians & after Buffalo. He treated us kindly. Invited us to his camp or wigwan which we 
excepted. I had no interpeter yet He infonned me that our Horses were taken away & He would 
send after them. He started many Indians on Horseback to seek after them. They brought in one 
Horse to me at Sundown another at midnight. 

I sat in Council with the chief & warriors untill 12 oclok at night. They wished me to draw on the 
ground the river & road & tell whare the Buffalo were. I did so. They wanted me to tell whare the 
Indians were. The chief showed me whare He had been shot & some scalps He had taken. They 
had there whole band with them men women & child. They brought in much Antilope & gave us 
some to eat. We lay down at 12 oclok. Slept 2 Hours. Awoke at 2 oclok vary Cold & chilly. We 
got up. Made a fire. The chief & squaw got up & set up also & talked much about going to war & 
the Buffalo. 

18th At Sun rise the Indians came in & informed me that the 3d Horse had got away from Him & 
could not be found & the chief wished us to get on our Horses & go among their Horses & see if 
we could find him. We did so. Rode many miles untill 12 oclok & could find nothing of him And 
Brother Atwood went with two Indians several miles & they showed Him the track whare He got 
away from them. He returned at 2 oclok & we made up our minds to return to camp. We were 
over 30 miles from any of our encampments. We took our 4 Horses & started. Rode Hard for 30 
miles & arived at Br Woolleys encampment at 8 oclok & both man & Beast was weary & 

Hungry. 

19th We started early in the morning to find our camp. We travled 5 miles & met two of the 
Bethren on their way back to Woolley camp to enquire after us & if they did not hear from us 
were calculating to raise all the Armed men they possibly could & go into the mountains after us 
but we soon arived at our camp which ended their fears concerning us And their shouts of Joy on 
our arival made the [welkin ring?]. We gatherd up our teams travled untill night & camped on 


Page355 




Big Sandy. 

20th We travled 15 1/2 miles & camped on Big Sandy. Our oxen Began to fail. 

21st We Travled 15 1/2 miles. Camped on Big Sandy. Our old Buffalo ox Died at night. He had 
drawn timber for the Temple in the pine Country, Had been in the punkah expedition & had 
picked his living for several years past through Hard winters & Died After A Hard 3 months 
work in Drawing goods towards the valley. 

22d Sunday Drove 8 miles & camped on Big Sandy within 4 miles of Green River Ford. We 
were informed that Elder Hyde would call upon us in a day or two. Many wrote Letters to send 
by him to the States. I wrote A Letter to I. F. Carter & gave him An extract from my Journal of 
each Days travel } up to this date. 

23d Travled to Green river. Put in 6 spokes into a waggon wheel. Crossed the river & camped 5 
miles below. 9 1/2 miles. 

24 Drove 18 1/2 miles & camped on Hams fork. Many cattle failed. I left one ox & one cow Died 
after ariving in Camp Bess leader & [reed?] Cow. 

I met two men from the valley Brothers Robinson & Stringham who informed me that their Had 
been some Difficulty with A party of snake Indians. They had commenced Stealing & made war 
on our people. They had killed one of the Brethren & one Indian was killed. They had made an 
Attack on Brownville. The Brethren had sent 200 armed men to their assistance & had sent these 
men to warn us of the danger that we might be on our guard fearing that they they might attack us 
while on the road. I called both Divisions of the camp together at night & required them to Have 
their guns & Amunition ready for inspection early in the morning. I spent A sick night. 

25th I was quite unwell this morning. The Encampment came out in companies of tens & 50 
Armed for inspections. There were 22 men in 3d Division & 12 men in [lst\2 & 1?] Division. 
Their were 34 guns & 50 Pistol shots. We travled 12 1/2 miles & camped on 3d crossing at 
Blacks fork. 

26th Drove 10 1/2 miles. Left one ox that Murphy Drove. 

27th Drove 8 miles. Camped at Fort Bridger in the evening. I took my trout rod & line & caught 
22 trout in one Hole in 10 minutes. We lost at night 6 oxen that went back on the road. 

28th We Had to lie in camp while men went back after the oxen. Many went to fishing As there 
was A rushing creek which Abounded with trout. I caught 30 Another man 32 And many Caught 
About A Dozen each. The men returned at night with the oxen. 

29th I 1 We left Fort Bridger this morning. I went Forward with my Division to day And the first 
Division or some of them complained or murmured much about it & their was sin committed by 
so doing. I called them together at night & gave them a sharp rebuke & reproof for I was 


Page356 




constrained by the spirit of God so to do. And I Advised that division to go ahead in the morning 
& not wait for me. We came down a long tedious Hill & broke down one exle tyre & one wheel. 
Travled 1 1 miles & camped on a small stream. 

30th The first Division went ahead & we staid in camp to mend the Ex & wheel. 

October 

Oct 1st Drove 15 miles & camped. Lost one cow. 

2d Travled 8 miles on a bad Road & camped on Bear River. 

3d Travled 10 miles & camped on Yellow creek. Lost another Cow. 

4th Travled 10 miles. Visited the cave. Had an interview with Elder O Hyde who past us with 
His train on his return Home. 

5th Travled 7 miles. Camped with Hunters camp on the echo creek. Found A Bad Road. 

6th Sunday Travled over a Rough Road 9 miles & camped on the Webber River. 

7th Lay in camp. Caught 15 trout. 

8th Travled 12 miles on a bad Road. Camped on a small Creek 2 1/2 miles from canion creek. 
Met with Brothers Atwoods & Branch with Cattle from the valley to our assistance with 12 Yoke 
which we much stood in need of. 

9th We Had A rain & snow Storm. We lost some oxen but found them. Lay in camp. 

* 10th Travled 8 miles & Camped on kanyan Creek. Brother Fross Turned my family waggon 
over & made quite a smash up inside. My family was inside the waggon & run a Narrow Chance 
of being killed but escaped unharmed. 

1 1th Travled 3 miles left kanyan creek. Turned up the big mountain. Travled 2 miles. Broke evry 
spoke out of one wheel & one tongue out. Stoped & mended waggons. 

12th Travled 8 miles over the second mountain And O Horrid what A road. We had to repair the 
road near one third of the way. Gutted out by the late storm. We were in Danger of Breaking 
waggons. 

13 th We travled & stoped within one mile of the Kanyon & President Young Came to see me 
But He Returned And I Did not see Him. 

14th * I Drove to the mouth of the kanyon met L Hardy & Company And I drove into the city of 
the G. S. C. at the Head of the company. I was truly glad to gaze once more upon the City of the 
great Salt Lake & valley of the mountains. I met with Elder G A Smith & many others. I drove to 
the two rooms that I made while in the valley before. 


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15th I visited many of the Brethren. Had our oxen on hand. I got a state Brand to Brand our oxen 
which was Recorded as follows * ["IV" lying on its side ] on the left shoulder. 

16th I put into the Hands of Willis & Co 52 Head of oxen & 18 Cows. Total 70 Head to Heard at 
one cent per Head each day. 

I met in Council with President Young Kimball & Richards P P Pratt G. A. Smith P P Pratt & 
others. I found President Young sick abed. The subject was discused of Esstablishing A trading 
company to do business for the Church instead of suffering the Gentiles to come in & g[et?] the 
Church. Adjourned untill 2 oclok at the Dr W Richards office to morrow. 

17th Met in Council with the Presidency & Twelve And it was thought Best for me to open the 
goods with Heywood & Woolley. 

18th I spent the day at Home. 

19th I moved my log Cabbins from the old fort on to my lot Joining the Temple Block. 

20th Sunday I met with the Saints in the Bowery. Was Called upon to Address the meeting. I 
gave An account of my mission to the East. I spoke of my dream I dreamed of dying & going to 
the place of the departed spirits. I saw Brother Joseph & Hyram Smith & many of the Saints who 
had died. They all appeared to be in a Hurry. I thought Strange to find them in A Hurry And I 
enquired the Cause. They informed me that the time was set for Christ to Come as the great 
Bridegroom to the Earth to meet the Bride the Lambs wife & they had not had time to prepare as 
those of other dispensations & Had to be in a Hurry in order to get ready. And when I awoke I 
was overwhelmed with a peculiar sensation at the view of the work the Latter Day Saints Had to 
perfonn in order to prepair the Bride for to meet the Bridegroom. I was followed by P. P. Pratt 
who spoke well. 

21st [] I Loaned $1,000 to send to Sanborn & Carter of Portland Maine on the goods which I 
brought out. I sent it By Mr James M Livingston. 

22d I spent the day in Covering my House. 

23d I spent this day in work upon my House. 

24th I went into the Bigfield to see some Hay of Mr Vancotts. 

25th I went into the Bigfield & drew 4 loads of Hay home. 

26th I spent most of the day at Home labouring at [ ]. 

27th Sunday In the fore part of the day I attended meeting at the Bowery. G A Smith Addressed 
the meeting & spoke from the word of Samuel to Saul when He returned from the Battle 
Bringing the Beasts to offer as a Sacrafize. "Obediance is better than sacrafize And to Harken 
than the fat of Rams." He spoke much to our edifycation. He spoke upon the subject of Tithing. 


Page358 




He was followed by President Young who spoke very plain unto the people & told them what the 
Consequences would be if they did not pay their tithing. 

I met in Council with the president in the upper room Also the Twelve And Had prayers before 
the Lord. I read to the presidency Mr Copways speech Also Col Kanes views of the Government 
of Deserett & other Matters. 

Elder Joseph Stratton 'T was vary sick. Brother P P Pratt & myself Had Administered to him. Also 
Br A Lyman was sick. 

28th The Presidency on Consideration of the case thought I might as well settle my own affairs 
So I commenced this morning to sell some goods which I had on hand. The people crouded Hard 
around my waggon to buy sugar Coffee &c as they had not had a supply in the valley. 

29th I spent the day in trade & had many Costomers. In the Afternoon I Attended the funeral of 
Elder Joseph A Stratton who died Last night. P. P. Pratt Preached his funeral sennon & spoke 
much to our edifycation tracing the state of man from his birth to his death at which period of his 
life He would be transplanted in A field whare He Could Act in A far wider sphere than He 
Could do in this life. I followed him & bore my testimony of his good conduct while on his 
mission with me to England. 

30th I spent the day at Home in trade in my business. 

3 1st I spent the day at Home. 


November 

Nov 1st Brother Benbow Called upon me. Also President Young came & purchased some things 
of me. It was A Cold rainy day. 

2d I spent the day at Home. 

3d Sunday I attended meeting. Elder G A Smith the Twelve & presidency met with the Regency 
and much was said in relation to Schools &c. In the Afternoon I met with the quorum for Prayers. 

4th 5th 6th 7th 8th & 9th The time this week was spent in merchandizing selling my goods. I met 
once with the Regency during the week. 

10th Sunday I met with the Twelve & Presidency for prayers. 

Nov 1 1th Monday I opened my store of goods this morning at the House of Brother Baylis. Was 
to give $24 dollars per month for the same. We had considereble company to day to trade. 

12 Spent the day in the store. 

13th & 14th Spent the time in the store. Father Woodruff went with Ezra Clark to day to find His 
oxen. He is 74 years of Age this 14th day of Nov & will walk home with His oxen in a day about 


Page359 




20 miles. 


15th I spent the time choreing & at the store. 

16th I spent the time in the store. 

17th I Attended meeting in the Tabernacle. G. A. Smith Preached A funeral Sennon much to the 
edifycation of the congregation. 

18 to 23d I spent the week mostly in the store. 

24th Sunday I attended meeting. President Young Addressed the meeting in An interesting 
manner much to our edifycation. Said even those who were keeping the celestial law had their 
imperfections. Were found in a fault Here & there yet they would pray to God Angels & men that 
they were willing to sacrafize all things for the sake of the kingdom of God. He exhorted all men 
to do right as they would wish to be done by for the saints would judge the world. 

25, 26, 27 & 28 My time was spent About Home. 

29th 1 went into the mill creek Canyon in Company with Br Bess. 1 went onto the mountains & 
cut timber & slid it down the mountain. Loaded one Horse waggon who took it home. We spent 
the night at Brother Porters at the upper Mill. 

30th I went into the Kaniyon with Brother Bess. We Climed the mountains & worked in 3 feet of 
snow & cut 120 post & 150 poles & slid them down the mountain 1/4 of a mile. Drew them a 
quarter of a mile & slid them down another bench. 1 had water in my Boots & suffered all day. 
We spent the night at Brother Porters. 


December 


Dec 1st I walked Home. 20 miles. 

2d The legislature of the State of Deserett met in session this day. I spent the day at home. 

3d 1 laboured at Home to day. 

4th 1 attended the legislature to day. Herd many interesting remarks from Gov B. Young. He 
requested me to meet with them As He wished me to Become a member of the senate. 

{5th Dec * Senate of Deseret} 1 met to day with the Legislature of the State of Deseret. The 
House of Representatives & Senate sat in Joint Session. As there was two vacancies in the Senate 
By Death viz Bishop Newel K Whitney & Cornelius P Lott the Govomor Appointed Wilford 
Woodruff & Charles C Rich to fill their places in the Senate. Several were appointed places in 
the House. 1 was Also appointed by the Lieut Gov as chainnan of the Committee on Counties in 
the place of G. A. Smith, who deliverd his farewell Address to the Senate & had taken his 
depa[rture] as chief Justice of Iron County. Many Bills Came up to day & passed. The 


Page360 




Legislature adjourned untill the 1st Monday in Dec. 

6th I spent the day carting Hay Also the 7th making fence around the Hay & yard. 

8th Sunday I Attended meeting & was Called upon to preached to the people. I addressed them in 
a Brief manner. 

9th 10th 1 1th 12th 13 & 14th I was quite out of Health this week. I Bruised my hand took Cold 
got inflamation in it & it confined me to the House most of the week. 

15th Sunday I spent the day at Home. 

161 spent the day at Home. 

17th I Butcherd one ox weighed 720 lbs. Made some posts for fence. 

18th A snow stonn. I spent most of the day writing. 

191 spent the day making fence. 


Patriarchal Blessings 

On this 20th Day of Dec 1850 Father John Smith the Patriarch over the whole Church Appointed 
to Bless the people met at my House And gave unto my Father Aphek Woodruff His Patriarchal 
Blessing. Also Sister Sarah B. Foss and Her family Received their Blessings at the same time. 
Phebe W. Woodruff & myself had both of us Received our patriarchal Blessings from under the 
hands of Father Joseph Smith the first Patriarch to the Church in his day which were Recorded in 
the Church Records. Father John Smith However Blessed Mrs Woodruff with the rest to day. 

Before Commencing to Bless Father Smith made sum remarks upon the subject. Said He 
Considerd the mark spoken of by Ezekiel set in the forehead of the Righteous by the one having 
the writers inkhorn by his side was the patriarchal blessings & seal in the last days. And the 
Revelator St John had the same thing in view when He spoke of the one hundred & forty four 
thousand sealed out of the Twelve tribes of Israel. Also spoke of the Blessings of Abram Isaac 
and Jacob to their children the Patriarchs And many other Edifying Remarks were made. 

The following Are our Patriarchal Blessings As sealed by the Patriarchs upon our Heads: 

Aphek Woodruff Patriarchal Blessing 

A Blessing by John Smith Patriarch upon the head of Aphek Woodruff son of Eldad & Dinah 
Woodruff born in Farmington Hartford Co Connecticut November 1 1th 1778. Brother Aphek 
beloved of the Lord I lay my hands upon thy head in the order of the Priesthood and 
Notwithstanding thy great Age I seal upon thee A Fathers Blessing inasmuch as thou hast obeyed 
the gospel with full purpose of Heart left thy Native land disregarding persecution thou hast 
passed through many trials and difficulties. Thy faith hath not failed. Thou art determined to 
persevere in the ways of truth and righteousness and thy name is written in the Lambs Book of 


Page361 




life and is not to be blotted out. 


The Lord will grant unto thee evry blessings which your heart desires for thou art a lawful heir to 
the Priesthood of the Blood of Ephraim which Priesthood shall be confered upon you in its 
fulness in due time. Thou shalt have power to heal the sick in thine house and do any miracle that 
was ever done by man in the name of Jesus when it is necessary for the salvation of Israel. Thy 
posterity shall become numerous upon the Earth And shall fill a station in the House of Israel 
which shall endure unto the End of time. The days of your years shall be according to the desire 
of your heart Even to see Israel gatherd and Zion Esstablished in peace in the Earth. Thou shalt 
have health peace & plenty while you dwell in the flesh. 

Thou art Called to do much good in instructing the saints even to preach the gospel not ownly 
while you live but beyound the veil. [You] shall gather thousands of the remnants of the House 
of Israel and bring them to a knowledge of the resurrection of the dead. Thou shall live many 
years and see much good accomplished among the Saints be sat-isfyed with life come up in the 
Resurrection with thy former companion and all thy Fathers House to inherit a Kingdom which 
shall Endure forever and ever. Amen. 

Wilford Woodruff Patriarchal Blessings 

At A Blessing meeting held at the Lords house in kirtland Ohio on the 15 day of April AD 1837 
Joseph Smith Sen. the Patriarch of the Church of Latter Day Saints Confered A Blessing upon 
the Head of Wilford Woodruff Son of Aphek Woodruff Born in Farmington Hartford County 
Connecticut March the 1st 1807. 

My Beloved Brother I lay my hands on thy head in the name of Jesus Christ the Son of the living 
God and seal A Blessing on thy head which shall reach thy posterity A seal that shall not be taken 
from thee. I Bless thee As Melchesideck Blessed Abram when He returned from the slaughter of 
the Ten Kings. I confer on thee all the Blessings of Abram Isaac & Jacob which includes all the 
Blessings of Both temporal & spiritual the blessings of Heaven & the Blessings of the Earth. 

Thou shalt have all the power and Authority of the Melchesideck priesthood. Thou hast a great 
work to do in the Earth. Thou shalt visit many barberous tribes of the Earth. They shall seek to 
take thy life yet God will give the wisdom and Power to frustrate their Designs. 

Thou shalt be Blessed with posterity. Thy sons shall Receive the Priesthood and be an ornament 
to the Church of Christ. Yea they shall be great men in the Earth. Thou shalt be honord by them 
And they shall call thee blessed. 

I place A seal on thy head And No power shall be able to take it from thee if thou art faithful in 
keeping the Commandments of God. This seal shall guard the against the destroyer. 

Thou mayest have the Administration of the Angels of Heaven. An Holy Angel shall soon 
Administer unto thee And reveal unto thee thy duty yea and give unto thee many instructions. 
Thou shalt have the spirit of God to instruct thee in thy mission And lead thee into all truth. Thou 


Page362 




shall be filled with the spirit of God. Thine Eyes shall be open to look within the veil to behold 
the things of Eternity. Yea the Lord of Glory shall appear unto thee. Thou shall put thy Hands 
upon his feet and feel his wounds with thy hands, that thou mayest be a special witness of his 
name. Thou shall understand great mysteries in this generation Yea all the mysteries of the 
kingdom of God. And the wisdom of God shall Cleave unto thee. 

I seal all thy fonner Blessings upon thy head. And they shall be fulfilled. Thou shall be a great 
man in the Earth. Thy intellectual powers shall be preserved and thy understanding shall be great. 

God has looked upon thee from all Eternity And has known thy Blood. Thou art a descendant of 
Joseph. Thou shall stand in the flesh & witness the winding up scene of this generation. Thou 
shalt stand /remain/ on the Earth to Behold thy Savior Come in the Clouds of Heaven. Thou shalt 
be numbered with the One hundred forty and four Thousand and shall stand upon Mount Zion & 
shall sing a song that no man can learn or sing Except thy Company. 

Thou shalt have access to the treasures hid in the sand to Assist thee in thy necessities. An Angel 
of God shall show thee the Treasures of the Earth That thou mayest have riches to assist thee in 
gathering many orphan Children to Zion. 

Thou art one of the Horns of Joseph to push the people together to the Ends of the Earth. No 
power shall stay thee. At thy word the winds shall be stayed. Thou shalt walk upon the waters. At 
thy Command the waters shall be divided. Prisions vaults & Chains shall not hold thee for thou 
shalt rend them in twain. Thou shalt be deliverd out of the Hands of thy Enemies By the mighty 
power of God And by the prayer of faith Thou shalt have great Blessings. 

Thou art of the Blood of Ephraim if thou will Claim it by faith thou mayest Bring all of thy 
Relatives into the kingdom of God {See vol 2d July 1st 1838} for they are of the blood of 
Ephraim. 

In the name of Jesus Christ I seal this Blessing on thy Head by the Authority of the Holy 
Priesthood I seal thee up unto Eternal life. Even so Amen. { ^ } 

Phebe W. Carters Patriarchal Blessing Nov 10, 1836 

At A Blessing meeting held in the Lords house in Kirtland Ohio on the 10 day of Nov AD 1836 
Joseph Smith Sen the Patriarch of the Church of (Jesus Christ) Latter Day Saints Confered A 
Blessing upon the Head of Phebe W Carter born in Scarborough Cumberland County State of 
Maine the 8th March AD 1807. 

Sister in the name of Jesus of Nazareth and By the power of the Holy priesthood which God hath 
con-fered upon me I lay my hands upon thy head and place a seal upon thy forehead and if thou 
art faithful & keep the commandments of God No power shall take it off. It shall be a seal against 
the destroyer. 

No blessing in heaven shall be two great for thee. Thou hast thought much on thy Redeemer. 


Page363 




Thou must Call on God the Father in the name of his Son And He will open the Heavens & rend 
the veil that thou mayest see the son of man stand on the right hand of power. 

Thou hast suffered in former days by being deprived of friends unto whom thou couldest 
unbosom thy mind. Thou hast sorrowed in the night season & in solitary places. None know thy 
sorrow or saw thy tears but God thy Father. 

Be comforted for thy troubles are over and God will pour out his blessings to thee. Thou shalt 
have long life & see good days. Thou shall be the Mother of many Children. They shall be an 
ornament to the Church of Christ. Thy Husband shall be a man of wisdom knowledge & 
understanding. Let thy heart be Comforted & have faith in God & his word. Thou shalt labour in 
the Temple of the Lord thy God. Thou shalt teach thy Companions the ways of righteousness. 
Thou shall have many temporal Blessings. Riches shall flow in unto thee & thou shall rejoice 
rather than complain. 

Thou must put thy whole trust in God for thou art of the Blood of Ephraim. Thou shall Have A 
Celestial Crown. Thou shall have A residence in Zion & do a great work there. Thou shalt sew 
the veil of the Temple and rejoice in the work of thy Hands. If thou will keep the commandments 
thou shalt have all of thy friends. They shall be members of the Covenant. I seal all of these 
blessings on thy Head in the name [of] Jesus I seal thee up unto Eternal life. Amen & Amen. 

[ ] 

Father Smith Recorded my Fathers Blessing my own, Mrs Woodruffs Sister Sarah B Foss & her 
familys Blessings all together in his record. 

21st Dec I spent the day labouring with my hands diging sullar. 

22d Sunday I Attended meeting at the Bowary And herd ■]: An interesting & Edifying sennon 
preached by President Brigham Young. His text was truth. His subject Salvation. His circuit the 
world. He said we see the Child seeking the knife fork or Rai-sor or sumthing to Hurt itself with. 
So with many of the saints & Elders. They seek for that which is not good for them And they 
know it not. Many seek for things which tend to death & not life. Spoke of some wishing to go to 
the gold mines. He spoke of the desire for tobaco Alchohol Coffee tea &c and the desire for such 
things was because they contained poison & excited the nervous system & it was death & not life 
& many useful remarks were made. 

I attended A prayer meeting at the Presidents in the Afternoon & Had a good time. 

23 & 24th I spent the time drawing rock from the Canions. 

25, 26 27 & 28 Was spent most of the time at Hard labour. 

29th Sunday President Young preached & was followed by Elder Kimball & we had an 
interesting meeting. 


Page364 




30 & 3 1 I spent the time labouring with my hands. I met with the President & Council of the 
perpetual Emigrating society And was Appointed by the president As A member of that body. I 
gave Bonds in the penal sum of Ten thousands dollars for the faithful perfonnance of my duty as 
A member of that board According to the rules governing the Council. Abram O Smoot & 
Leonard W Hardy was my Bondsmen. 

Thus Ends the Time & labour of another half Centaury AD 1850. Yes Eighteen hundred & fifty 
has gone to make another link in the great Chain of this Earth probation. It has been an important 
year in many respects. The Revolutions & Changes & signs of the times among the Nations of 
the Earth indicate the fulfillment of the word of God & the preperation for the coming of the son 
of Man. 

It has been A year of Blessings upon Zion & her Children. The Lord hath preserved my life to 
lead one of the camps of Israel out of the midst of the Gentiles to mingle with their Brethren in 
Zion now building up Cities in the rich vallies of the mountains of Israel. The Saints have been 
abundantly prospered & Blessed during this year in all they have put their hands unto. Some 
thousands have Emigrated this year to Zion from the States. 

The following pages contain an account of my travels during AD 1850: 

{WW= = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = 

{WW= = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = 

I Travled through fourteen of the United States 
Organized A Company of 209 Latter day Saints at the 
City of Boston Mass. Led them to Bethleham Iowa. 

From thence across the plaines over the Rocky Mountains 
to the valley of the Great Salt Lake into the 
State of Deseret. 

The whole distance Travled 
I held public meetings 
I Baptized 
I Confirmed 
I Administered unto 
I Attended Councils with the 
Presidency & Twelve 
I was Appointed A Member of 

the Senate of the State of Deseret 
Sat in Joint Session with the 
Legislature 
I Wrote 


4,617 Miles 
32 Meetings 
14 Persons 
14 Persons 
20 Sick Persons 

5 Councils 


5 Days 
172 Letters 


Page365 




I Received 

I was Appointed A member 

of the Council of the Perpetual 
Emigrating Association. Met with 
them in 

I was appointed one of the Regency 
of the University of Deseret. 


126 Letters 


3 Councils 


} 


Page366 




Endnotes 


1 (Popup - Popup) 

The first two lines and signature are in Woodruffs hand. The remaining four lines are in L. John 
Nuttall's hand. 

2 (Popup - Popup) 

Woodruff begins forming as that are often frequently indistinguishable from e . When the reading 
is uncertain. Woodruffs established spelling patterns are maintained (for example, "vary" for 
"very"); otherwise, conventional spellings are followed. 

3 (Popup - Popup) 

19 MAY: The xs throughout the entry are Woodruffs, apparently intended as ellipses. 

4 (Popup - Popup) 

The x s are Woodruffs, apparently intended as ellipses. Following the description of the college 
and Woodruffs visitor's pass, another version of the 1-3 December entries is crossed out. The 
variation of wording, spelling and capitalization suggest that the present texts are based on earlier 
notes or drafts. 


The second version of 1-3 December: 


"After I visited the college I called upon Col Kane and saw a sleigh robe presented to him by Dr 
Bernhisel as A present from B. Young. It Contained 7 wolf skins & 10 fox skins got up with 
great taste & splendor. It was worth $40. 1 wrote A letter to Mrs } Woodruff. 


"2d Sunday I preached 3 times to the Saints in Philadelphia And the spirit of God rested upon 
me. I taught the Saints in great plainness. I laboured Hard among them. We had a hard snow 
Stonn during the day & night. 


"3d It still stonns. The Papers are full of Murders from all parts of the Country & Congress is a 
hot bed of Political Corruption And there is danger of its exploding And destroying the union." 


Page367 




Volume 4 

Wilford Woodruff s Journal: 1851-1856 



1833-1898 

Typescript 

Volume 4 

1 January 1851 to December 1856 
Edited by Scott G. Kenney 

Midvale, Utah 


Editorial Apparatus and Symbols 


See Editorial Procedures in Volume I for a more detailed explanation. 


[ ] 

[••] 

[-] 

[ty/try?] 

[ing] 

[Asterisks are Woodruffs .] 
<Distance> 

/and Joseph/ 


{ 


Blank space or original unfinished. 
Illegible letters. 

Illegible words. 

Conjectural reading. 

Words/letters supplied by editor. 
Editorial comment. 

Shorthand text. 

Interlinear or marginal addition. 
Decorative or delimiting border. 
Beginning of entry enclosed by borders. 


Pagel 



=====} 

{PWW} 


Ending of entry enclosed by borders. 
Brief text enclosed in drawing. 
Unique or infrequently used drawing. 


Symbols used to indicate drawings appear below followed by one, two, or three examples from 
the text: 


13 <& 

T fh* 

fl? IS 

< d 3 Vi 

t 

i S jj 


l & 

0 O 

« M r .^ Q 


. oO 


Volume 4 Chronology 


1851 


January- April 

Attends legislature 

February 3 

Weekly meetings of the Twelve begin; 

Woodruff given charge of the Record of the Twelve Apostles 

April-May 

Accompanies Brigham Young party on tour of central and southern Utah; 
Woodruffs first visit to Utah valley, first meeting with Chief Walker 

1852 


January-March 

Attends legislature 

April-May 

Accompanies Brigham Young party on tour of central and southern Utah 

December 2 1 

Appointed clerk and historian of the Twelve 

1853 


February 14 

Attends dedication of Salt Fake Temple site 


Page2 




February 2 1 Given charge of the tithing hands on construction of Salt Lake Temple 

1854 

May Accompanies Brigham Young to southern Utah 

December Attends legislature 

1855 

January Attends legislature 

February 3 Elected president of the Universal Scientific Society 

April 25 Attends first meeting of Deseret Theological Society 

May 5 Attends dedication of Endowment House 

May 9-27 Accompanies Brigham Young to southern Utah 

December Attends legislature in Fillmore 

1856 

February 4 Appointed to committee on Deseret Alphabet textbooks 

April 7 Appointed Assistant Church Historian and superintends work in absence 

of George A. Smith 

October-November Rescue of the hand cart companies 

December 22 With Orson Hyde, Lorenzo Snow, and Franklin D. Richards, urges first 

seven presidents 

of Seventy to resign 

December 29 With Orson Hyde and Lorenzo Snow, offers resignation of 

apostleship to Brigham Young (declined) 

{========================= 

Wilford Woodruffs Journal for 1851 

* 


January 


} 


Page3 




Jan 1st AD 1851 Wednesday I met with the 14 ward of the City of the Great Salt Lake of Deseret 
to Dedicate A New School House which we had built for the purpose of schooling our children. 
Elder P. P Pratt delivered A vary interesting Address on the occasion. Took for A tex "the fear of 
the Lord is the Begining of wisdom. He was followed by President Richards in a few remarks & 
the dedication prayer After which remarks were made by W Woodruff W. W. Phelps & Bishop 
Murdock when there was An intermission one hour. 

Met at 2 oclok when it was moved & Carried that W Woodruff deliver A discourse to the people 
from the following text: "Bought wit is the best if you do not buy it to dear." I Addressed the 
meeting in a Breaf manner As required of me After which the Evening was spent in recreation 
under the direction of the Bishop of the ward. 

2 & 3 I went into the Canyon & drew rock for stoneing A sullar wall for A dwelling House which 
I intend to build to locate My family in Zion while I go abroad to preach the gospel to the Nations 
of the Earth. 

4th I met with the regency at the school House. Remarks were made by the Chancellor 
concerning the Classifying of the scholars of this City. Many remarks were made upon the 
subject. I Also Attended in the Evening a meeting with the President & council of the perpetual 
Emigrating Company. Edward Hunter lade an account of his summers labour before the board & 
his report & account was accepted. 

5th Sunday I met with the Saints at the Bowery. The presidency & Twelve were present. Elder P. 
P. Pratt Preached a good sennan to the people. Was followed by A Lyman & Major. 

I met in the Afternoon At President Youngs for prayer. I was unwell through the day. I met in the 
evening at the school House. A large Congregation for meeting. The meeting was Addressed by 
Bishop Murdock Elders P. P. Pratt W Richards W Woodruff P Richards & Wm W Phelps. We 
had the spirit of the Lord & a good meeting. 

6th I met with the Legislature of the State of Deseret. I found the Supreme Court in session. Two 
men were tried on Saturday for stealing Cattle. The Jurors brought in A verdic of guilty. Two 
other men were brought in in Chains for breaking in stores & stealing money. The Court soon 
Adjourned to the Bowery And the Legislature opened by prayer & commenced Business. Reports 
of committee were heard. 

7th A Coad of Criminal laws were presented before the Legislature & scanned closely through 
the day without passing one section of the Bill. The Govomor made some interesting remarks to 
his Council in the Evening. 

8th The Legislature had an interesting day. Both Houses sit in joint session. The criminal Code of 
laws came up again to day and it caused many interesting & Edifying debates from many 
members of Both Houses. Also remarks from the Governor who said the law was written in their 
Hearts & it was difficult to put it on paper And even in criminal cases it should be left much to 


Page4 




the discretion of the court. Ownly 3 sections of the Bill passed during the day. 

9th I spent the day in the Legislature. Most of the day was spent on the Criminal Code. But little 
done except debating. Adjourned at night untill next Tuesday. 

10 & 11 Was spent diging sullar. 

12th Sunday I met at the Bowery. The meeting was Addressed By B. Clapp Z. Pulsipher Major, 

& President Young. Among other remarks of the President He spoke upon the subject of 
swareing or takeing the name of God in vain. A Covenant was made by the whole congregation 
to put down swareing through out the City & State. President Young remarked that the time 
might Come when the Lord would require him & the Elders of Israel to sharpen up their swords 
& go fourth & hew down the wicked in their midst. He said any Righteous man that Herd any 
one of his Children take the name of God in vain that He might whip them untill He was 
satisfyed. 

I met in the evening [with] the Seventies at the Council House. The meeting was Addressed By 
W. Woodruff B Young J. Young J M. Grant. 

13th I spent the day diging sullar. 

14th I met with the Legislature. They passed several sections of the Criminal Code during the 
day. 

15 Spent the day in the Legislature. A portion of the criminal Code was passed to day. 

16th I spent the day in the Legislature. The Criminal Code was finished to day. 

17th I spent the day in the Legislature. We had an interesting day. Councellor O. Spencer made 
an interesting speach & was followed By the Govomor who presented light & truth in the spirit 
of God. 

I spent the evening in A Lyceum of the Seventies. The word of wisdom was the subject discused. 
Five speakers were called upon who addressed the meeting & was followed by president Young 
who made many interesting remarks. He spoke upon the word of wisdom of its origen &c. Said it 
was well kept when it was first given. 

18th 2 ^ Joseph Young the President of the Seventies Appointed a two days meeting for all the 
Seventies. They met to day at 10 oclok. A large Assembly gatherd together at an early hour. 
Meeting was opened by prayer & Singing. Remarks were made By Joseph Young after which 
those were called to come forward who were to be ordained as members of the Seventies when 
104 came forward [and] were taken into the State House & ordained under the Hands of the 
presidency of the Seventies. They then returned to the congregation. The assembly was 
Addressed through the day & evening by many persons. The spirit of God rested upon the 
Congregation & we had a good meeting. Much instruction was given. 


Page5 




19th Sunday The people Assembled in a vast Body. The presidency Twelve & Seventies were in 
their place. The meeting was opened as usual by singing & Prayer. Was Addressed by Joseph 
Young Lorenzo Young George Grant was followed By president Young who infonned the Saints 
the time had now Come to begin to prepare to build A temple & the people must pay their tithing 
& He requested the presidents of evry Quorum to take the names of evry member of their 
Quorum & they should sign a paper & covenant to pay their tithing & they who would not do it 
should be Cut off from the Church. 

The ground wants to be laid off for a Temple & garden & materials prepared this season. A font 
wants to be built & the Endowments Commence As soon as possible. Those who went through 
the Temple at Nauvoo know but vary little about the endowments. Their was no time to leam 
them & what little they did leam they have most of them forgotton it. Many other interesting 
remarks were made by the president And He called upon the congregation to raise their right 
hand towards Heaven as A token & covenant that they would help him build a Temple And it 
was one unanimous vote. 

President Kimball next spoke & backed up the testimony of president Young & spoke much to 
our Edifycation. He was followed by Elder P. P. Pratt who spoke lengthy & to Edifycation. 

After An intennission of one hour the meeting was Addressed By E T. Benson A. Lyman & W. 
Woodruff & the spirit of God rested upon us through the day And A refermarion Appeared to 
present itself among all the saints. 

At the close of the meeting the Presidency & Twelve met in Council & herd all the ordinances 
read over that had been passed during the present Legislature. 

During the day Truman Angel presented A draft or plan of the Seventies Hall about to be built in 
the City of the Great Salt Lake before the Congregation. If it is built according to the plan it will 
be an ornament to the City. There was also about 30 others ordained to the seventies to day. This 
two days meeting has been of much interest to the saints in this place. 

20th Monday President Young with several of the Twelve & others started on a mission to 
Brownsville this morning. I commenced laying my Sullar wall to day. 

211 spent the day laying wall. 

22 I spent this day laying my sullar wall & Hewing post. 

23 & 24th Spent the time at home labouring. 

25th I rode with my family to the Big Cotton wood & spent the night with Brother Kington. 10. 

26th Sunday I preached in the morning to Brother Kingtons And Blessed 6 Children. In the 
evening [I spoke] to a large congregation in the school House. 


Page6 




27th I rode Horse Back to porters Mill in Mill Creek Kanyon & Back Again & spent the night 
with R. Allexander. 20. 

28th I returned to the City with my family. I there learned that some Brethren had Arived from 
Calafomia Bringing A Mail with them bearing the news that Brigham Young was Appointed our 
Governor L. W. Heywood State Marshall the Judges to be sent from the States. There was great 
rejoiceing in the valley that the Government had given us our Choice in a Governor. President 
Young had gone North on a mission. 

Was within 15 miles of the City. The Band of Music & an Escort went out to meet him & on 
their arival in the City A salute of 10 guns was given & fireworks &c. I shook hands with the 
Govornor at his house & spent the evening with him & Council at his house. 

The News brought is that the people are holding large mass Meeting in the states against slavery. 
That the gold digers were dying 20 per day. 

29th I spent the day at home. I received to day for the first time the deserett Almanac got up By 
W W Phelps. 

30th I dined at the Bath House with The Presidency of the Church and the Twelve & their 
families. The keeper of the Bath House Brother Hendricks had A daughter Married. The 
Ceremony was perfonned By President Young after which He addressed the Assembly & said 
here are Elements gathered to gether which will create & make a heaven or create & make a Hell 
Just as the course you choose to persue. He exhorted the people to righteousness & wished them 
to keep the Commandments of God. We spent the evening to gether. 

3 1st f f I wrote two letters one to I. F. Carter one to Azmon Woodruff. 

February 

Feb 1st I Bought a ten acre lot of [ ] Brown in the Big field for Sarah B. Foss. Paid $120 for 

the same. Rode down to the lot & back to the city. 

2d 'T Sunday The Congregation met at the Bower and Mr Bateman requested the privilege of 
Addressing the meeting in behalf of Elijah the prophet who He sayes is in this city. President 
Young made some remarks before He spoke. Bateman Addressed the meeting 9 minutes & 
brought forth Just Nothing. President Young followed And said we have herd what Bateman Had 
to say but He has brought forth Nothing. Many have arisen in these last days professing to be 
Elijah the prophet but they have brought forth Nothing of interest to the people. 

Will any one tell me what the office of Elijah the prophet was to be to the Earth when He Come? 
The Answer is to turn the hearts of the Children to their fathers & the fathers to the children lest I 
Come & smite the whole Earth with a Curse. The Answer is right. 

In what way is this to be done? By sealing upon the head of the prophet Joseph those keys to 


Page7 




remain in the Church & kingdom of God untill the winding up scene. The Elders of this Church 
know those keys were sealed upon the head of Joseph Smith & still remain in the Church. 

What are they to accomplish? As the saints Could not be perfect in fonner days with out the 
Latter day Saints Neither Can we be perfect without our Fathers who have died for many 
generations & these keys of Elijah Confirmed upon the president of the Church are to seal the 
fathers to their children the Children to their fathers, & to assist in welding the great link 
connecting evry gospel dispensation together. 

I see the wheat growing in this dispensation ripening for the Harvest. I see the tares also growing 
for the burning. I say to the wheat & tares grow on. I say to the Goats & Sheep both to go ahead 
unto the End. 

The Saints of God are increasing in knowledge fast but they have got to be a hundred times better 
wiser & advance in knowledge befor the End. I have watched the windings & progress of this 
people & the spirits that surround them. I have seen many arise as it were to heaven & in a 
moment of temptation fall down to Hell and loose their hops of glory. I know the spirits of men 
& the invisible spirits that affect men & operate upon them better than I do the faces of men. 

I want to speak a little upon natural philosophy. We sow the grain. It dies rots in the ground & 
then it brings forth A Hundred fold. The Elements which surrounded us produce these effects. If 
we had a correct knowledge of the Elements & knew how to control & separate them we Could 
make Bread as well out of the Elements as Jesus did when He fed the multitude. The day will 
Come when we can go [on] a Journey without taken any food with them. Would have power to 
make it as they went along. Many other interesting remarks were made by the president. 

Amasa Lyman followed. Spoke upon the word of wisdom. Said if a man was wise in eating [and] 
drinking & they would begin to learn wisdom in work & walking would walk & not be weary run 
& not faint for they would have wisdom enough to stop before they got weary. 

At the Close of the meeting President Young invited All the Twelve to Come & dine with him. 
We did so And feasted upon A fine large turkey supposed to be the first ever killed & eat in the 
valley. We had A good time in the upper room of prayer. 

Capt Hunt met with us at the Dr office in the evening. He made a report of the situation of 
Williams Ranch. Said He wanted to sell to our people. A Company was to be organized to go 
down & settle a stake or Colony & to buy him out. 

Brother Hunt Brought some papers & Letters from the States. One paper Contained the account 
of the appointment of the Govornor & other officers for Utah Territory & spoke of Mass 
Meetings being held in the free States expressing public sentiment against the fugitive slave Bill. 

3d ^ ? I met with the quorum of the Twelve at Brother Bensons Elder P P Pratt president prutem. 
There were present P P Pratt W. Woodruff E. T. Benson C C Rich. The meeting was opened by 
prayer By C C Rich. P. P Pratt then presented the Record of the Twelve Apostles which was read 


Page8 




before us. This Record Commenced in the valley of the Great Salt Lake at the filling up of the 
quorum of the Twelve. It contained many items of Interest. After it was read & remarks made it 
was moved & carried that the Record of the Twelve Apostles be put into the Hands of Wilford 
Woodruff to keep & record such acts as was necessary. We then Appointed A meeting for the 
Twelve to meet each Monday night wh[en?] we Could be together As the time would soon come 
when P. P. Pratt A. Lyman & C C Rich would be called upon to go abroad on their mission. We 
adjourned untill next monday night. 

A 

4th According to adjournment the Legislature met today to transact business for the State. I spent 
the day with them. An ordinance was passed granting A liberal Charter to the Church of Jesus 
Christ of Latter Day Saints protecting them in their religious rights. 

During the pasage of this ordinance many interesting remarks were made by the president or 
Govournor of the State. He says we do not want the church to pass laws to punish crime ownly to 
try members on church fellowship. If the members shall transgress the laws of the Land turn 
them over to the Laws of the Land. But we want to protect the Church in their right of worship & 
so we will evry other sect that comes here. When the kingdoms of this world become the 
kingdom of Our Lord & Savior Jesus Christ will they all be members of the Church of Jesus 
Christ & obey the gospel? No not one 8th part of them. No more than the Telestial kingdom is a 
Celestial one and they Stand in about the same relationship one to the other. 

If a society of the Shaking quakers was to Come here & settle in this valley & wanted a Charter 
to be protected in their worship let us give them one & if they believe it right not to marry a 
woman let them live without it & not Compel them to it. So if the Latter Day Saints wish to have 
more wives than one to live Holy & raise up Holy seed unto the Lord let them enjoy that 
privilege. 

Now the Gentile Christian Nations & Legislatures guard vary Strictly against passing any laws to 
do away with whoredoms but they will make it almost Death for a man to have two wives but 
they will have as many whores as they please. Yes thousands upon thousands of the Christian 
Nations are rotting with the pock & filty Corruption & they think this is all right. But for a 
Righteous man to have several wives like Abram Isaac & Jacob, David & others to raise up a 
Holy seed unto the Lord & will keep themselves pure before God they think this is an awful sin. 
But if I had power I would take all good virtueous females from all wicked Corrupt Adulterous 
Husbands & give them to Holy men of God that they may raise up seed unto the Lord. 

I have more wives than one. I have many and I am not ashamed to have it known. Some Deny in 
the States that we have more wives than one. I never Deny it. I am perfectly willing that the 
people at Washington Should know that I have more than one wife & they are pure before the 
Lord and are approved off in his sight. I have been Commanded of God to persue this Course &c. 
Many other interesting remarks were made. 


Page9 




5th * I spent the fore part of the day in the Legislature. The subject of Distilling Ardent spirits in 
the valley was brought up. After Hearing the arguments brought up on all sides the Govournor 
addressd the Assembly and among other remarks said that As we have to leam to handle & 
control all the evils that oppose the Heavens or Effect the Earth can we not control Ardent 
Spirits? We can. Many interesting remarks were made. Adjourned untill tomorrow [-] at 2 
oclock. 

I Attended A funeral at Brother Shirtliffs. Mother Shirtliff Aged 74 years & some months Died 
yesterday the 4th And was buried this Afternoon. I spoke from the last chapter of Daniel on the 
Resurrection. 

I met in the Evening with the Emigration Association. The High priest Also met at the Council 
House. 

6th 7th I spent the time in the Legislature. At the close of the 7th we Adjourned untill monday 
Morning. 

8th In Company with Leonard Hardy & Celey I started in a two Horse Carriage to go to Toilla 
valley. We travled 20 miles to the cave Bated & went on. After turning the point of the mountain 
we broke down our forward Iron Axletree. We left the waggon [went] to Bensons Mill got 
another waggon went back & dr[ew?] it up to the Blacksmith Shop & got it mended. Brother 
Hardy & myself spent the night with Brother Badlam on spring Creek opposite the Big Rock. 30 
m. 

9th We rode to Brother Willis Herd ground & spent the night. 10. 

10th The day was spent getting up cattle. I found I had lost 10 Head of Oxen & cows. 

Ill left the Herd ground. Took with me 20 cows & 6 oxen & drove to Badlams. Took dinner 
then drove to the big Cave & spent the night in the cave with a number of Men. The Cave was in 
a solid Rock 100 feet long 30 wide & 8 to 10 feet high. 25 m. 

12th We were visited this morning with A severe snow Storm which was severe all day & night. 
20 . 

13th It was exceding Cold today. I drove my Cows to Br Holebrooks & spent the night with him. 
I delivered into his hands 18 cows, which He takes on Shares. Delivers to me one half of the 
Butter cheese & Stock to me. 

I saw a sample of the 7 Headed wheat which Brother Holebrook Had raised. He gathered 75 
bushels of wheat from the acre. I never have seen such a country to raise wheat as these vallies. 
Often they cut 40, 50, 60, 70 & 75 bushels of wheat from the Acre. 10. 

14th An exceding Cold day. I returned home today. 10. 


Page 10 




15th I spent the day at home. Sister Mary Nobles died to day. 

16 Sunday I was quite unwell. President B Young preached A funeral Sermon on the death of 
sister Nobles. 

In the Afternoon Mrs Woodruff went with me to president Youngs. I was in Council with the 
Presidency & Twelve. Among other things the President said He was Afraid there would be A 
spirit with A Lyman to Build up Williams Ranch & loose sight of this place. He says to Brother 
Rich remember if this is the case that I have seen the bud of it & other things were said. He 
thought there were many more going than was wisdom to go. I took supper with the President & 
Lady & returned Home And had quite a sick night. 

17th I was quite unwell this morning. Drew one load of Straw. Had much Company &c. 

1 8th I went into the Kanyon with Ezra & tumbled rock from the top of the Hills all day to get two 
loads to draw home. I left one wagon by the way. I returned home vary weary. 

19th k I spent the day with the President & others at the Council House preparing A room for 
our Council. 

20th 2 ^ I spent the day in Council. Had a good time. Was Anointed & Blessed under the Hands of 
President Young. 

21st Elders Appleby Wells Allen & Hammond was Admitted into our Council to day. We spent 
the day in Council. 

22d We had a Tedious snow storm the most severe of any stonn this winter. I spent the day at the 
Store. Settelled up all accounts with Elder L Hardy. 

23d \ Sunday I met with the Saints. J Murdock [ ] Sherwood & A Lyman Addressed the 

meeting & was followed By President B Young who spoke much to the Edifycation of the Saints. 

24th The Legislature of the State sat to day. I spent the day with them. The Govornor Addressed 
the Assembly in an interesting manner upon various subject. 

25th k I spent the day in Council in the upper room & had A good time. Father Aphek Woodruff 
was ordained to the office of High Priest under the Hands of Heber C Kimball & W Woodruff. 

26th I rode in Company with Mr Coffin to the Island in the Salt Lake & spent the night with Mr 
Garr. 20 m. 

27th It was a Cold day. I returned home to the City. 20 m. 

28th I spent the day at home. 


March 


Pagel 1 




2 ^ March 1st 1851 This is my Birth day. I am 44 years old this day. May the Lord Preserve me in 
rightousness in all my future days & help me to build up his kingdom. I spent a part of the day in 
the upper Room And A part of the day in my labour. 

Brother Lorenzo Young was shot by mistake or accident through the left ann on Jordon Bridge. 
Came nigh looseing his life. 

2 ^ March 2d 1851 Sunday The Assembly was addressed By P. P Pratt as A farewell address on 
his taking his leave on a foreign mission. Among his remarks He Said He had been Connected 
with this Church about twenty one years. He had laboured travled Joyed Sorrowed felt & 
Experienced with them during that time He had seen men rise & fall & one thing He wished to 
speak off He had seen many of the Sisters at various times feel disposed to marry out of the 
Church & think their is no harm in it. They can marry a Gentile and no harm in it. But what is the 
truth in the Case? It is the same now as anciently. For instance in the days of Noah the daughters 
of Noah married out of the Church in some instances & were not saved with him in the ark but 
they & their seed were Cut off from the Earth forever. 

So with Lot. Some of his daughters married Gentiles out of the Church while in Sodom & 
Gomorrow And would not go out with their Father Lot but were destroyed they & their posterity 
from off the Earth. So it is with the Sisters in the Church in this day. Those who marry out of the 
Church marry those who are doomed to destruction & their posterity while those who are in the 
Church & are faithful will live & their Children to the last Generation. 

Brother Pratt Exhorted the Saints to unite in building up the kingdom of God. He felt that their 
was a good spirit generally prevailing in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. He was 
going on a long mission. He wanted the prayers of the saints in his behalf & those who were 
going with him that they might save the Souls of men & open the gospel to those of other 
tongues & languages. I think the time has come when it should be done. I feel that I Can do 
nothing of myself in this matter except the Lord helps me. I feel thankful that I can leave my 
family & Children here in the midst of the Saints. I do not wish to go to the States to preach the 
gospel to the nation that has driven us out. If they want the Gospel let them Come and ask for it 
as we have travled with Blistered feet to carry it to them & then they would Curse us for it. Many 
other good remarks were made by Elder Pratt. 

President Young Addressed the meeting some minutes before it closed concerning the Building 
of the public works & other things. We met in the upper room for Prayer & had a good time. 

3d ^ I spent the day in the upper room in Council. I ordained one High Priest & one to the 
Quorum of the Seventies. I administered to 7 others & addressed the Saints in the afternoon. 

4th I spent the day at home & made 10 rods of post & Board fence on the 1st west Temple street. 

5th I laboured at home. Ezra returned at night from the Herd bringing my cattle with him. 


Page 12 




6th I drove my oxen to Lorenzo Young Herd. Distance 25. 

7th I drew 16 dead oxen out of the Carall & then returned Home to the city. 25. 

8th I drew 3 loads of sand for making morter & commenced again to lay up my sullar wall. 

9th Sunday The Meeting was Addressed in the fore part of the day By Elder J. M. Grant who 
spoke well on Prayer, faith industry & other things. Was followed By President Kimball who 
spoke much to our Edifycation. He prophesyed that we should have an increase of work & labour 
to all Eternity. 

During the intennission President Young Kimball & the Twelve called upon Brother Richards & 
his Sister Rhoda lay at the point of Death. We all Administered unto her by the laying on of 
hands. President Young said she should live & not die at this time. 

President Young Addressed the meeting in the afternoon upon the subject of building the 
Temple, Tithing, & labour on the public works. He said if evry man was willing to do what was 
right their would be no need of Tithing. He said He would not be responsible personally for the 
labour of any man on the public works. If the people paid their tithing the workmen would get 
their pay. If we build Temples public works or fit out missionaries abroad or feed the poor it has 
to be by the Tithing of the people. 

He also spoke of the merchants who had trusted the Saints. If they did not get their pay they must 
not turn around & dam the presidency & the Church & undertake to mob us as they did in the 
States for that we shall not suffer Here. During the Evening we met for Prayer. Afterwards we 
met with the Regency. 

10th I spent the day laying sullar wall. 

1 1th I drew 6 loads of Sand & Clay. 

121 drew 2 loads of Stone from the kanion & 2 masons laid the wall. 

13 I drew 2 loads of Stone. 

14 I drew 2 loads of Stone. 

151 drew 2 loads of Stone for the foundation of my House. 

16th Sunday Elder Appleby preached in the forenoon & was followed By W. Woodruff. In the 
afternoon the meeting was Addressed By W. W. Phelps. We met in the Evening for Prayer & had 
a good time. 

17, 18, 19, 20, 21, & 22 This week was Also spent drawing stone & laying wall for the 
foundation of my House. 


Page 13 




23d Sunday W. Woodruff Addressed the meeting in the forenoon & E. T. Benson in the 
afternoon. President Young was gone to Utah. [Ao 24 March entry.] 

251 spent the day laying wall. 

26th I went into the Bigfield & commenced ploughing & sewing wheat. 

27th Spent the day ploughing. 

28th We had a Mail come in from the states. We received letters & many papers. The world is in 
great confusion & trouble. 

29th I spent the day at home. The Nauvoo Legion came out. Elder Benson & myself were 
Appointd Chaplains of the legion. 

30th Sunday Brother Kimball Addressed the meeting & was followed By others. We met for 
Prayer in the evening. 

3 1st We had a snow storm. I went into the big field However to ploughing. 

April 

April 1, 2, 3, & 4 I spent this week in the field ploughing. We sowed 13 Acres of wheat 5 Acres 
of 7 Head wheat 5 acres of Club wheat & 5 of Touse. Another Eastern Mail on the 3d. 

5th The legislature of the State of Deseret met in Joint session for the last time. And after Closing 
the business of the day the assembly was dissolved As A Territorial Government was about to be 
esstablished. 

6th Sunday I spent the day in the Bowery at Meeting. 

7th 8th 9, 10, 1 1th & 121 spent sewing wheat. 13 Sunday We had a meeting in the Bowery. 

14th I spent the day furrowing out the land. 

15 th I went to Bishop Robinsons & got 40 bushels of wheat. 

16 We went to Mill. 

17 & 18 We ploughed J Benbows lot for oats. 19th I spent the day at home. 

20th We spent the day at Meeting. 

21st Monday I spent the day getting ready to go with the President & others to visit our Brethren 
in the south part of the Basin. Br Young thought it wisdom for us to go as far south as the Little 
Salt Lake to visit the Brethren. 

22d President Young & many others left the City to start on this Southern Mission. Brother 


Page 14 




Young spent the night with Brother Smoot. I rode to Brother Kingtons & spent the night with 
him. 

23d I prepaired myself to go on the Journey with Br E T Benson. He Came Along this Morning. I 
went with him to A O Smoot. Their Joined President Young & Kimball & Started on our 
Journey. We Had 20 waggons & about 40 men to go on our Journey to visit our Brethren 250 
miles to visit the Brethren & comfort their Hearts. I do not think their was ever A Company of 
men of the same number ever left as much business to go on a visit as we did. We crossed the 
Mountain into Utah valley & camped for the night. This was the first time I ever was in Utah 
valley. I found it to be A splendid valley of Land. 

24th The company went on. I rode to the fort on the N West side of the Lake. Dined with some 
friends on some fine trout then Rode to our Encampment on the provo. Port was vary [ ]. 

25 I rode to Brother Behannans & spent several hours with Him. Then rode on to Camp on 
Hobble Creek. I Here found Walker the Utah Chief with His band. I Here saw him for the first 
time. He is an ugly cunning chief. 

I called upon Aaron Johnson & wrote A letter to Mrs Woodruff. 

26th I rode with Br Wells across the Battle ground whare the Indians fought our Brethren with Br 
Wells as the leader of the saints. He gave me an account of the Battle which was interesting. We 
Rode to Petatenich creek. Met with the ox teams Here who were appointed to go to Iron County. 
They went along with us. 

We trayled to Summit Creek & camped for the night. In the evening A meeting was called to 
organize the camp. Brother Wells was our Captain B. Young President H. C. Kimball W. 
Woodruff E. T. Benson & J Young Councellors. President Young while speaking of the 
Resurrection said that we should Receive the same Bodies that we lay down if our dust was 
Blown to the four winds of Heaven. 

27th We Rode to Salt Creek & Camped by the salt cave which is composed of about 2/3 salt & 
1/3 clay & it is suppose that many of the salt springs originate in this way by the wash of the salt. 

28th We Rode about 5 miles into the kanyon to visit a salt Spring which forms salt on the Rocks 
sufficient to supply many families. We rode into san pitch valley & Camped on a creek for the 
night. 

29th We Rode to San pitch Settlement. As we came in sight we were saluted by the fireing ol 
cannon & waveing of flags. We were Received with wannth By Father Morley & the people in 
general. Their is about 100 families Here. They are farming Have a school House Commenced A 
Council House, &c. I called upon Brother Brown & other friends Capt Jones &c. 

We had A meeting in the evening. B Young Addressed the meeting in An interesting manner. 
Said His faith was that the Earth would not Have produced for the Gentiles as it has for us & il 


Page 15 




we had faith & power with God to Have the Curse taken off instead of the sage Brush & other 
useless shrubs we should have the Apple pear peach grape & evry good fruit. But if this people 
do not take a different Course from what they do in some things their Blessings will prove a 
curse & wo will be unto them & other Remarks were made. He was followed By Elder Kimball 
who spoke well & backed up His testimony. W. Woodruff followed & Expressed his feelings. I 
spent the night with Br Brown. 

30th We met for the purpose of organizing A High Council. There were twelve men chosen & 
were ordained to be High Councellors & 4 were ordained to be High Priest under the Hands of E 
T Benson & W. Woodruff. The meeting was then addressed By John & Lorenzo Young. In the 
Afternoon W Woodruff E. T. Benson & J. M. Grant Addressed the Meeting. The People met in 
the Evening & Had a time of Recreation. 


May 

May 1st We left Sanpete in the Afternoon & travled 6 miles & camped on South Creek. 

2d We travled to the severe & camped on salt Creek kanyon. I visited A Mountain of Rock salt. 

3d In company with several others we went 3 miles up salt creek. Saw a spring of salt water 
which forms A Beautiful white salt on the Rocks as it runs down. It makes several tons each year. 
We visited one mountain of Rock salt pure & clean. The Body was more than 40 feet High & so 
Hard it was difficult to cut it with an Ax. We also saw the ground white made from salt springs. 
We saw A plenty of the quarts Rock & Isonglass. We Rode to the severe & camped on its Bank. 
Shot one deer while He was swiming the creek. 

4th Sunday We crossed the severe rode 25 miles through the sage & camped on cotton wood 
wells. Explored the other Kanyon But could not get through. 

5 th We Crossed the Mountain into Mary vale which was A plesant place but most of the severe 
River & valley is rightly named for it is a Barren world. This stream Abounds with Beaver & it is 
said a plenty of trout. A 200 mile s[take?] from Salt Lake is in this vale. 

6th We travled over A High Bluff & Had a Rough Road all day. We camped at night on a creek. 

7th We Crossed the severe twice today. Camped on the side of the Severe Mountain. Had a 
Rough Road. 

8th A plesant Morning. The Mountain scenery that surrounds us is truly Beautiful & Romantic. 
The air Breeze clear & serene & Healthy. We travled over A vary rough Road the fore part of the 
day But a Better [one] in the evening. We camped as usual on the Mountains with the towering 
Rocks around us. 

9th We are met this morning with a tremendious snow & Hail stonn which met us in our faces & 
we suffered much. We started early Before Breakfast Hoping to get down off the Mountain out of 


Page 16 




the Storm. We travled 25 miles before we stoped to eat. We came in sight of the valley of Little 
Salt Lake about noon drove down into A kanyon made a fire wanned us & took dinner. We then 
descended into the valley over A rough Road of rock & sage. Found a Road drove to Red Creek 
& camp for the night. 

We have been over the worst Road for A few days past that I ever knew waggons to pass over. 
We had to draw our waggons up & let them down with ropes it was so sideling we had to Hold 
our waggons up to keep them from turning over. We camped within 4 miles of Cedar City. 

During the evening G. A. Smith & two other Brethren came down to see us. It was A Happy 
meeting. Red Creek was A good place for a settlement. 

10th We had another snow storm this morning. The snow fell 8 inches in the valley whare we 
were which was A great Blessing to the people as it watered their wheat. There had not Been 
such a snow in the valley during the winter. We took Breakfast got up our teams & started for 
Cedar City. We were met By G. A. Smith & A Horse Company who came out to escort us in. 

When we arived we were saluted by the fireing of Cannon & the flag of the Stars & Stripes. We 
took up our abode among the Brethren in the fort. Brother Benson & myself stoped with Bishop 
Robinson. We took a walk to see G. A. Smith saw Mill which was up so he [rode?] saw. He 
informed us they Had an abundance of coal magn[....] Iron, Allum Salt timber & c nearby. 

We found the Brethren Had done much since their arival. They have about 100 men. Have been 
there 3 months. Have enclosed A fort containing 19 Acre & 96 Rods of ground And Have 
ploughed & sewed about 1,000 Acres of wheat. Have fenced about 6,000 Acres of land. Have 
built one saw mill And got A Councel House up the 1st story. This is An important point And 
probably will be next to the great Salt Lake in importance As they have found an abundance of 
Coal & Iron. 

1 1th Sunday It was A stormy day. Br G. A Smith Addressed the Meeting A short time And the 
people was dismissed. 

12th A Company started out this morning to examine the coal & Iron. The President & Council 
remained in fort to Hold a Council & do such business as was Necessary. A meeting was called 
at 4 oclock to ascertain the minds of the Brethren. It was found about 30 wished to go home 15 to 
get their families & the other 15 to remain at the great Salt Lake. Each one made [there?] excuse. 

President Young then Addressed them & said He would express his feelings upon the subject to 
those who wished to go home. If you were now on a mission to France England or any other part 
of the Earth preaching the gospel you would not sit down & council to gerber about going to get 
your families or go home untill your mission was ended. This is of quite as much importance as 
preaching the gospel for the time has now Come when it is required of us to make the wilderness 
blossom as the rose. Our mission now is build up stakes of Zion & fill these mountains with 
cities & when your mission is Ended you are at Liberty to go & be free & ownly do right. 


Page 17 




When I go on A mission I leave my affairs in the Hands of God. If my House, fields, flocks, wife 
or children die in my absence I say Amen to it. If they live & prosper I feel to say Amen to it & 
thank the Lord. He wished the Brethren to finish the fort & secure their grain &c. Wished the 
land to be surveyed so that the Brethren who laid the foundation could have their choice of farms. 
He Councelled the Brethren to buy up the Lamanite Children As fast as they Could & Educate 
them & teach them the gospel so that not many generations they would be a white & delightsom 
people. For the Lord could not have Devised A Better plan than to have put us whare we are in 
order to accomplish this thing. 

13 The Saints Assembled this morning & was Addressed By E. T. Benson in the morning who 
spoke lengthy. In the Afternoon the meeting was Addressed By John Young J M Grant & W 
Woodruff who expressed their feelings upon various subjects. 

B Young followed And Advised to have the logs so close that Arrows could not be shot into the 
fort. He would prefer to have many Address the saints so as to get Ideas from many than to have 
one occupy all the time. He wished the Boundaries of the Cities to be Altered on the Charter As 
their was A mistake in [ ]. Also the name was to Be Altered from Cedar City to the Indian 

Name PAROWAN. 

14th We Rode to Red Creek to see the Country. We had A feast at Brother Baylis House of the 
rich luxeries of Earth. Our Exploreing party Returned from the coal & Iron Mines. Brought 
specemins &c. 

15th We Rode to Summit Creek to day whare we could view the land & see the Country 10 miles 
from the fort South. We concluded to Start home tomorrow. In the Evening In company with 
Elder Kimball I went to the water & saw the Baptism of 6 persons. Brother Kimball & myself 
Confirmed them. Brother Whipple & family was 3 of them. 

16th Met with the citizens to agree upon Electing officers. President Young said that He cared 
nothing about the feelings of the Nations who had driven us out. We should not follow in the 
path & political foolery. We should have one candidate & but one as delegate to congress. We 
can speak our feelings freely Here but when we vote let it be for the Candidate of our Choice. 
Should we have two candidates & they have about equal votes. The United States would know 
we had apostitized from our faith & union or we were trying to deceive them. We would stand 
Better in their Eyes to take our own independant Course & act united. If we have but one track 
the Saints will walk on it. If we have two tracks their will be A plenty of Devils to run on them. If 
we Begin Right we shall go right. If we Begin wrong we shall keep wrong. The United States are 
afraid of our union & so is the world. 

In speaking of the Indians He Said these Indians were the descendants of the old Gadianton 
Robers who infested these Mountains for more than a thousand years. 

We dined together in the City of Parowan & then left amid the roar of cannon & drove to Red 


Page 18 




Creek & camped for the night. About 30 of the citizens Returned with us to go Back to the Great 
Salt Lake City. 

17 We left the valley crossed the mountain & camped on Beaver Creek which abounds with 
Beaver & trout. G. A. Smith & several others came as far as this creek & camped with us. 

18th Sunday We parted with George A Smith & his company who returned to Parowan. We 
drove to willow Creek & camped, I felt quite unwell through the day. 

19th We travled to Chalk Creek & camped for the night. Brother Smoot & several others are 
quite sick with the Mountain fever. I am quite unwell with it. 

20th Several of the Brethren went to the chalk mines to get some chalk. They Brought a quantity 
with them. I rode with Br Kimball to day. All the Sick are getting Better. We camped in dry 
valley. We found the Country filled with the Best of grass for cattle. 

21 We had a rainy morning. We rode to the severe crossed it & nooned. The ox teams came up 
with us & crossed the ferry. Also, one waggon turned over in the River. We drove to sage Hen 
creek & camped for the night. I saw About A dozen Beaver play in the swamp at night. 

22d We had a good Road to day. We drove to Salt Creek Nooned then passed Mt Nebo & willow 
creek. Went to Summit Creek & camped. We drove 36 miles to day. 

23d We Rode to Petetonich & to Provo fort & on to Battle creek & camped. 

24th We drove into the Salt Lake valley. I left Brothers Smoot & Stewart quite sick. They were 
glad to get Home. I took tea with Br & Sister Smoot. I then called at Thomas Kingtons. [Left?] a 
letter. Went on with the company to the City. An Escort of 100 Horseman came out to meet us. 
We went into the city amid the roar of canon. I went Home to my family & found them all well. 
And we found on our return the Lord Had given our crops A plenty of rain. It had rained 12 days 
in succession And the people were Blessed. Little Salt Lake is 250 miles from Great Salt Lake so 
the whole distance of our travel to & from was 500 miles. 

An Eastern Mail Arived An hour Before we did & Brought many papers [] And Letters. I 
Received 2 letters from I F Carter & one from Foster. 

25th Sunday The People Assembled in the Bowery & filled the House. President B Young 
Addressed the meeting. Spoke of our Journey over the Mountains & made many interesting 
remarks. In the Afternoon the meeting was Addressed By W Woodruff E. T. Benson And 
President Young then preached A loud sermon to the people. Told them if they went to the 
Merchants as they had done & run in debt they would soon find themselves slaves to their 
Enemies & fools. Told the people to go to making leather & cloth & the women to card their 
wool & flak spin their flax & make cloth & many plain & pointed things were spoken. In the 
evening we met for Prayer & Had a good time. 


Page 19 




26th In company with Father Woodruff I rode to Thomas Kingtons & spent the night. 10 m. 

27th I went to fishing & caught 49 trout. Spent the night to Br Kingtons. 

28th I Returned Home. 10. 

29th I spent the day at Home choreing. 

30th I spent the day Hunting a lost cow. Rode 15 miles. 

3 1st [] I received A letter from Ilus F Carter containing an Invoice of goods sent By Mr 
Monroe. I wrote Him one letter Containing one sheet & a half giving him what News I could. 

June 

June 1st 1851 Sunday When I arived at meeting President Young was speaking & the following 
is a synopsis of His discourse: 

"If a man does right He shall have the spirit of God to Enlighten his mind in all things. Yet all 
men will be tryed, Buffeted, & tempted more or less in this probation & He that governs himself 
is wise. If a man is unrighteously Angry He should let it sleep & not show itself untill He is right 
again. Good Men may be left to commit a gross sin But if He had watched Closely He would 
Have escaped the evil. The Lord intends all men to be tryed in this life & if you Build your faith 
upon a true foundation that faith Has got to be tryed. All men have an oppertunity of appearing 
wise or foolish of governing themselves or making their folley manifest. 

Peter commit a gross Error. Had He have been on the watch tower He might have turned away in 
silence & not denyed his Lord. Many have been tryed & turned away from us at a time when they 
Expected to have gained sumthing by [it] & in doing so they have lost all. Others have been 
Blinded & overcome & done evil. Then their Eyes were open to see the consequences. But it is 
the privilege of all men to live so that they can see what each act will amount to either good or 
Evil. How different the prospect would be before the world or this people if they would live so 
from what it now is. I endeavour to do right in all things & then leave the Event in the Hands of 
God & am satisfy with the result. If a man is led or tempted to do a thing that you do not 
comprehend the result of & that result /not/ lead to good then let it alone. 

During the past week one remarked to me that my observations last Sunday ought to be observed 
& was good But it ought to have been spoken in the right spirit. But I wish to say that I am 
satisfied with the power & influence the Lord has given me. The Lord directs things according to 
his own will. I know my feelings & zeal would make my words like a sharp two edged sword so 
that they would separate the sins from this people that they should practice sin no more. Not be 
tempted with it. But this is not the will of God. The people still must have their warfare & trial & 
if the storms & waves overwhelm the ship still all is well for we have a good Captain at the helm. 

Some people are vary anxious to reprove others while they are wrong themselves And do not 


Page20 




know the spirit they are of. They are ready to say How do you do Peter & Judas Jesus, & How do 
you do Mr Devil And are vary pious but will go to Hell with their spirit & the whole world will 
go to Hell with the same spirit. Awake ye Elders of Israel & make your calling & Election sure 
lest you go to Hell with the wicked. I do not point you to the sectarian Hell whare Devils are 
tosting you with A pitchfork in the Billows of Hell fire Eternally. But go & mingle with the 
wicked in the states. Wrangle & fight with them. Get their spirit & feelings & loose the light & 
spirit of God & you will begin to feel the true state of the Damned. 

The wicked killed Jesus Christ out of mallace & wickedness & they did not know that His death 
was to save the world. The Lord turns many things for good which the world means for Evil. The 
whole Earth is filled with misery sin & wickedness. I could find no worse Hell than to be 
Confined among them. 

I labour for the welfare of this whole people. I wish my Brethren to be A Happy free people that 
their course of life may be such as to get an Eternal & temperal Salvation. I labour to Effect this. 
Their is time & change to all things. Their has been a code of Laws given in fonner days which 
was for all people which is the gospel of Jesus Christ. 

In the days of Christ the Apostles & Elders were sent out to preach the gospel & warn the people. 
They did so but were then martered for preaching it & the Saints were killed off the Earth. That 
time is gone. The change has come. For now the set time has come to favor Zion to Build it up in 
strength power & glory to gather Israel to Build Jerrusalem & Zion to fight for our liberty & 
freedom. We have sent the Gospel forth & preached the Book of Mormon And the minstry of 
Jesus on this Continent in Ancient days. Now the time is come to gather Israel & polish them. 

Their is a great Excitement in the world about slavery & the Abolitionest are vary fearful that we 
shall have the Negro or Indian as Slaves Here. We have a few that were prisioners that we have 
bought to save their lives. But what will the Abolitionest do? If you owe them a dollar they will 
Jog you up. Neither will they liberate the slave by buying them & setting them free. The Master 
of Slaves will be damned if they Abuse their slaves. Yet the Seed of Ham will be servants untill 
God takes the Curse off from them. But they are not all the Slaves their is in the world. The 
whole world are Slaves to sin & wickedness & passion. 

I Have two Blacks. They are as free as I am. Shall we lay a foundation for Negro Slavery? No 
God forbid. And I forbid. 

I say let us be free. We will be rich but we must be rich in faith first or we shall be rich in no 
other way. We must lay A foundation to manufacture our own goods. If we do not we shall be 
slaves to our Enemies. We must stop being so much dependent upon our Enemies & a foreign 
market or it will make us trouble. 

And this people must sceace getting in debt to the merchants for if you will get in debt you shall 
pay your debts. But I say stop getting in debt. Let No one come to me & complain that He has got 
in debt & the man will sue him & ought to be cut off from the Church. For you that get in debt & 


Page21 




wont pay your debts are the ones that ought to be cut off from the church. Dont get in debt. Go in 
the spring & get the Bark off the shrub oaks. Their is enough in this valley to tan $200,000 worth 
of leather, & Here your Hides are rating over the Earth & you are paying 50 cts per lb for leather 
& you pay the merchants $80,000 annually for shoes. But instead of persueing this course if you 
will lay a foundation for taning leather making Cloth making what we want you then lay a 
foundation to build & sustain Zion. 

I drove sheep to this valley & bought others & Brought a carding machine Here to Card wool. 
Who will put it up? I have done more to stock this valley than any 4 men in the place. I want 
others to do sumthing. Set up the mashine & make the cloth. Is there any woman in this valley 
who will make me a suit of clothes? So if I do not wear them? [If so do I not wear them ?] 

What is the spirit of the times? In the world if a woman pays a great price for an article it is 
considered vary nice & all want some of the same but You get a thing cheap & all are ashamed to 
wear it. You are looked upon with disdain. But if you pay a great price you are vary respectable. 

Their is many practices not right. To see the men ride through the Streets they go as though they 
were in a Hurry to get to Hell. To men of wisdom such things look vain & foolish but to the 
world it looks glorious & the mark of fellow[shiping?] with them is fine clothing & splendor. I 
want the saints to adorn themselves first their Hearts with faith & grace then their Bodies with 
the workmanship of their own Hands. If it is silk & satin all the Better. It will show your art 
wisdom & ingenuety in temperal things. 

True friendship is not known on the Earth if it is not among this people. But the friendship of this 
people is the fruits of the gospel of Jesus Christ. This must Continue to improve untill they are 
perfect. 

In speaking upon the subject of tithing the President thought their Had not Been $200 dollars 
paid in cash during the past Year by this people in tithing. But they have paid the merchants 
$200,000 in Cash, & their is now 30,000 Bushels of wheat due on tithing. Shall we dispens with 
the Law of Tithing? Dont you want a Building to meet in to worship God? We want a 
Tabernacle, & A Temple for our Endowments Also A Tower to Hang a Bell on & we want to 
keep building up Zion that Israel may have A place of rest. If we do this we do our duty. We have 
duties to perform And a warfare to accomplish but the victory will soon be ours. The greatest 
warfare is with ourselves. If we can gain a victory with ourselves so as to have peace with 
ourselves our wives & children we shall do well. Many other interesting remarks were made by 
the president. 

In the Afternoon the meeting was Addressed by O Spencer in an Edifying manner, And was 
followed by Elder Kimball who spoke much to the Edifycation of the people. We Had our prayer 
meeting in the Evening & was in Council untill 10 oclok. 

2d June I spent the day at Home. 


Page22 




3 I went to porters Mill & got A load of Lumber & caught 15 trout. 

4th I went to see my Herd of Oxen that was brought down. 

5th 6th 7th I spent the time about my labour. 

8th Sunday President Young Addressed A full assembly of the Saints as follows: 

I want to speak such things as are in my heart. All that are acquainted with me know that my 
Religion embraces all things that Belong to the duties of life. The Religion I have Embraces all 
the principles of present future, progressive & Eternal Salvation in evry sens of the word. I labour 
for the Salvation of myself & my Brethren. I would be glad to speak to thousands even the whole 
world if they could Hear. I would not like to preach in this House to 80 or 100 persons when 
more than 1,000 could get in Here then for 80 or 100 more come & Have to preach 20 or 50 
times to have the people leam when they could leam it all at once. 

The President of the Seventies called A separate meeting to day. I come & dismissed it. What if 
the Twelve Seventies High Priest, Elders, priest, Teachers Deacon & member should do the 
same? There would be bear walls for the House to preach to & what Good would it do? If the 
presidency of the seventies Have such important things to lay before the quorum as to get them to 
gether on Sunday let them come & teach us all. I now want to give Council in this matter. From 
this time forth & forever let not the president of any quorum ever again call a separate meeting 
from the public Congregation unless the president of the Church [orders?] it. The seventies 
should be Here And all the people should be Here. Let the seventies Hall go & all other Business 
when Sunday Comes let the Saints of God Come together & Hear the Elders teach. Apply your 
Hearts unto wisdom & get it. 

If I am full of the spirit of God I shall not get any more than I want. It is the duty of all to come 
Here that can come & let the power of Eternity rest upon us. And you should not be asleep but 
wide awake. 

When I contrast the present with the past situations of the Saints It gives me a great variety of 
feelings, Both good & Bad Joyful & sorrowful. I have seen this people waiding through a school 
of affliction. They then were pray[er]ful & had faith. Their trying situation made them remember 
the Lord their God. But now prosperity is heaped upon you. And as this people are to be tryed in 
all things when prosperity comes some forget God, wax fat & Rich do not realize the Blessings 
they are Enjoying. 

Some who are in poverty abroad desire to gather with the saints. When they arive & get rich they 
forget what they have Been. Could you see the feelings of thousands now who are abroad who 
desire with all their hearts to come Here they would be willing to lick up the dust of your feet if 
they could but be Here. They still are with the wicked. Bring them Here. They look upon many 
who were poor but now [are] rich. They then desire to be rich also. They want gold & will soon 
be willing to sacrifice the society of the Saints & go to the gold mines & plunge themselves again 


Page23 




into Hell as it were from whare they came to gratify an unlawful desire. 

Thus it is with many men. Some were to go to the [plat?] to Bear River & keep a ferry to get gold 
& wait on wicked ungodly men to get gold. Whare are their minds? Like the fools? O yes. I told 
them I would not wait on the devils for loads of gold. I would rather stay here & serve the Lord. 
All I want of property is to serve the Lord & build up his kingdom with it. I suppose many of the 
Brethren & Sisters are much tryed to think they cannot have all they want. I will tell you what to 
do. Do all you can to day & let the rest go untill to morrow. Do your duty to day And all will be 
right. 

What good would it do you to Have 999 years to search & Hear the Revelations & 
commandments of God if we have no time to Carry one of them out? If any one wants to get 
more Revelations than they improve upon they are greedy dogs. It will take 20 years to do the 
work that God has revealed through the Mouth of His servant Joseph which He laid out for us to 
perfonn before his death even during the last year of his life to say nothing of what He gave 
before. 

I will tell you your duty. Command your minds from evry thing that is not for you to day & sit & 
worship God. Not sit & sleep But worship the Lord today, go home at the close of the meeting & 
get your food & rest then come to meeting again. Ponder & reflect upon the cause of the Lord 
Jesus Christ & his sufferings. If their is any thing necessary to be done do it. If an ox or an Ass 
falls into the pit pull him out. Drive any Beast out of your Neighbors grain & put up the fence. 

Do you meditate? Do you pray in your families & in secret to get the spirit of God? 

You say you have your trials. I Have mine. I will tell some of them. Brethren will come Here to 
meeting on Monday morning go through my field leave my fence down let their Cattle & Horses 
eat my wheat Borrow my cart waggon shovel Hoe Ax & evry thing I have got & that to without 
liberty & never bring it home. And if it was not my duty to stay here I would lay my hands upon 
some I could pick out who I have confidence in & would go & form a colony by myself & would 
not Admit of any person who was not proven. I cannot get grass in the Big field but many of you 
do it. But I now warn you not to steal my wood nor any of my property for if you Continue to do 
it I will put a mark upon such men that they will carry all the days of their lives. They are 
hypocritts and think all others are the same. I dont love them vary well. 

Again I say to you it is not your duty to get in debt to these Merchants. I say you shall pay your 
debts. If you say you Cant pay I say you shall pay them. 

I speak of the faults of my Brethren. You may ask shall we forgive our Brother his trespas if He 
repents? I say yes. "How many times? Untill Seventy times seven in one day if He repents & asks 
for it even all sins except the sin against the Holy Ghost. If you will bring back my tools grass & 
grain which You have taken unlawfully or any of my property And ask forgiveness I will forgive 
you. I will not cast of any man untill He cast himself off. I will not reject any man untill He 
rejects himself. I will hold on to any man as long as he has Any prospect of salvation. 


Page24 




9th 10 11 th 12 13 & 14 This week has been spent in hunting lost cattle wattering wheat & 
common labour. 

15th Sunday President Brigham Young Addressed the Congregation of the Saints in the 
following words: 

I would like to say enough in few words to fill three sennons. I have had to deliver my discourses 
in few words. I wish the people to sustain the priesthood as the priesthood. As to the opinion of 
men concerning myself As a man I care no more about it than I do the dust under my feet. I dont 
care what you say about me If you will ownly serve the Lord our God. Do the people live so as to 
know the voice of the Good shepherd? 

I wish to state one item Here which concerns you seriously. That is concerning the Indians Here. 
They are Ignorant have been taught to Steal & kill from their childhood & those who could do 
the most of it were considerd the greatest Braves & chiefs. As soon as they begin to Steal Here 
many of you want them killed. 

Compare their Circumstances with your own. You are taught from your cradles not to steal or kill 
as it is a great crime. Now do you kill a white man as soon as He steals? Weigh this subject well. 
Those who wish them killed for stealing A Horse reduce themselves far Below the Indian. You 
love them as well as I do, But when the curse is taken off they will again be fit for society. But 
while they are in their degraded state it rests upon us to use wisdom & judgment in their behalf. I 
say to the saints kill evry white man you see stealing & not kill the Indian for it for the white men 
know better. I speak to the Saints not as the Govomor of Utah But you & I are sent to save Israel 
not to kill them. Evry Elder that croses a certain line I do not wish to see him.But those who do 
right or seek to do right if they commit an Error we will forgive them. 

I do not Ask for influence ownly what God gives me. Neither will I give any man influence 
ownly what the Lord & his own good Conduct gives him for if God does not give A man 
influence all els will be of No use to him. If I do the work of God all is well. But I will give No 
man influence ownly what God gives. 

A Few words to families who have not a Head to Govern [them. They] will be destroyed. The 
man is the Head of the family & should Govern it. The Hand may say to the Head if I really 
thought you would govern right I would be governed by you but I am afraid you will not And I 
want to govern you & dictate the Head. Then the Shoulders & Stomach will want to dictate. But 
does not good sens teach you that your Head should Govern your Body? Your experience teaches 
the same. Your Head dictates you what to do & when your Head dictates the Body to do 
wickedly & pollute the Body then the Head should be cut off so as not to pollute the Body any 
longer. 

G A Smith remarked that there was some Bodies who could not [act/eat?] unless the Belly told 
the Head what to do. In the strict sens of the word No man is qualifyed to be judge & rule in the 


Page25 




priesthood untill He is qualifyed to rule Himself & be king over himself. It is thus in families. 
Children & Mothers Have you a good Husband & father? Let the wife rule the Husband & she 
will keep him tied to the dish cloth & kitchen all the days of his life & it proves A curse upon 
him. 

Their is a curse upon m[e/a?]n that I would not take off if I could. For in the Experience you have 
you are led to salvation through our Lord Jesus Christ. 

Do you know your calling Mothers? It is your duty to Brace up your feelings as men have to do 
& Be Mystress of your House. I go to the House to rest. The Mother sayes I cannot Govern the 
children. I wish you would. But this is not right. The Elders of this church have to go abroad to 
preach the gospel. They Cannot be with their children. When they come Home to spend a little 
time they want to dandle their children upon their knee & not go to whiping them. The Mother 
should govern them untill the Sons go with their Fathers in the field. Then let the Father Govern. 

I can govern my children when they are with me. I would rather one of my sons would stab me to 
the Heart & kill me dead than to conquer & master me in government. 

When any undertake to govern out of their place they do not prosper. As An ensample P P Pratt 
& John Taylor undertook to govern & controll & set right my affairs at winter Quarters while I 
was on a pioneer Journey to the Mountains & they liked to have destroyed many. But I said peace 
be still And I saved the people. 

I say to Mothers in the Name of the Lord God of Israel do your duty. Dont Ask the Father to 
whip the child. Do it yourself if necessary & let Mothers controll their daughters untill they go to 
their Husbands. But let the Man rule & preside over His household. 

And I say to the Men do not go home & abuse your wives because of what I have said But treat 
them kindly. What would you think of A man who would get up before A glass & cut & tear his 
own heart out? As well of him As I would of A man who would Beat & abuse his wife. 

President Richards Remarked Evry man makes His own Hell or Heaven. If we keep the 
Commandments & do right we have A Heaven within us all the time. 40 Men & all the devils in 
Hell cannot make a Hell for us if [we] do right But if you stop to parley with the devil He will 
soon get the Advantage over you & make a Hell for you. 

^ During the evening we met for prayer After which the president taught us much to our 
edifycation. The spirit should controll the Body. The monitor whispers to the mind of man when 
it does wrong & sayes this is wrong points out the right path & sayes walk ye in it. The Soul or 
spirit of man wants feeding as well as the Body or it will dry up & wither like the quakers & 
other sects. 

A Mormon Boy will whip out the priest. We will Advance untill we can stand in the society of 
the gods. Then let us do right & keep the commandments of God in all things. Our knowledge 
comes By Experience. It is Necessary that we should have crosses & trials of All kinds in order 


Page26 




to gain knowledge by experience. If we overcome we get a great victory. Continue to do so untill 
we arive at our High stations to become Gods Organize worlds & controle them. All our passions 
God gave us but we must controll them & make a right use of them. Our spirits were pure from 
Eternity but condescended to take a Body in its impure state was married to it will continue with 
it through time in mortality through Eternity in Immortality. In speaking of the married state 
sayes if man & wife become Alliniated from each other it is in one sens the spirit of Adultery. 

16th 17, 18, 19, 20 & 21 This week was spent Hunting lost cattle & at Hard labour. 

22d Sunday President Young Addressed the saints as follows: 

If I can see the motives of the Heart of man & know Eternal things by the Spirit of God it is far 
more Beautiful than to Hear the words of men. Should an Angel come & convers with any man 
in the congregation No other one might know it. He would think the person spoke to him as one 
speaks to another face to face when He would not be seen at all ownly by the spirit of God or By 
vision. We may know by the spirit of God what is in a mans heart before He speaks. At all times 
listen to the still small voice of the spirit of God And it will save the saints from many snares. If 
you get Angry dont sin nor let the sun go down upon your wrath. 

I do not expect perfection in men not what the world calls perfection. I have seen A perfect 
prophet And perfect Apostles. That is perfect in their calling but not the perfection the world 
looks for. If Joseph had Been as perfect as the people wished him to be He could not have lived 
with the people nor stayed this side of the veil as long as He did. We could not Have herd his 
voice nor seen his face. He would have had to Been veiled. Israel could not endure the face of 
Moses at times. 

The Lord expects us to be in the path of Duty. When we get in Eternity we shall be Angels or 
Gods. We shall their Advance to the Godhead if we do right. In speaking of the law what a 
simple thing it is. What is the Law to those who do right? It is not made for any body but the 
transgresser & lawless & wicked. If we do not infringe upon the rights of others all things are 
ours in Heaven & Earth time & Eternity Life & Death Heaven Earth & Hell & all that is therein 
is ours. If we do not infringe upon the rights of any other Being we shall become Gods & fill 
immensity as our Father in Heaven does. 

I can weigh all the s[lee?]pers philosophers, & Learned men of the Earth in the scale & know just 
what they weigh & can circumscribe them all. All is mine Heaven, Earth, Hell wives children 
and I am Christs & Christ is Gods. It is not known to us whare the stakes are set to Gods 
immensity. Take the world at large and they get to the end of their chain when they get to the mill 
pond. 

It is a startling Idea to think we are worshiping a God that once was in the situation that we are in 
ourselves. They had to pass through a probation of pain, suffering & the [-] like ourselves & He 
made perfect through sufferings. The Son of God passed through it & the Father would not 
Require of a son what He would not do Himself. All our sufferings will exhalt us in the presence 


Page27 




of God if we endure them patiently. 

A word of Advice concerning lawing. I dont never want to Hear of another law suit among the 
Brethren. Is it any thing but good common sense to Never have another suit before a judge to say 
nothing of Revelation? It does not Require any great perfection to accomplish this. Let men do 
right. Do your Neighbour good not evil. The Lord will burn up the Earth to cleanse it as you 
would an old pipe. 

You think it hard to have to water your land Here but it is far more healthy than to have rain. It 
was so in Egypt. If it did not rain in Illinois & Missouri more than Here it would be far more 
Healthy. This could be reasoned out on Natural principles. A word more upon Law suits. Their 
would not be a Law suit in this valley if all men would do right & were saints but the net has 
gathered all kinds good bad & worse. Let twelve men get drunk in this community & it ruins the 
place in the estimation of Good men. We have to bear the character of the drunkard. A few 
stinking fish in the net defile it & the whole net stinks And it creates a prejudice against it. Those 
who were acquainted with Joseph know that if He delt any in temporal things it created a 
prejudice against him. He bought many goods to help carry on the public works but the people 
were ready to get it all away from him. So it is now. But I say unto all men who are Saints put to 
your hands & help build up Zion & the Kingdom of God. We are scholars in the great school & 
must leam we are a kingdom & must bring the kingdom in subject to the will of God. 

23d 24th 25, 26, 27 & 28 This week was spent in prepareing to build. 

29th Sunday President Young Remarked I Join in testimony with the Brethren. I wish to be a 
doer of the word. I feel the importance of the remarks of the last speaker Brother Spencer. Those 
who are not ready to meet the Bridesgroom will not be invited to the supper. And the time is 
near. 

Jesus Christ is an ensample to all Saints. He was filled with wisdom in his youth but in his 
childhood & infancy He was like other children. It has been said that He was in infancy wise as 
in manhood but this is not the case. He was subject to temptation as we are but was not overcome 
by it. If we have become acquainted with our follies let us put them away & apply our hearts unto 
wisdom. Let us have compassion on others as we wish God to have compassion on us. We 
should increase in wisdom untill the day of Redemption. No person can receive all at once but 
increase little by little untill the day of perfection. Apply our Hearts to wisdom & it will produce 
peace, Health, wealth & evry good thing. Should you see a people carry out the principles of 
wisdom peace would be the fruit & you would never see contention unto the day of your death. 

Ask the world if they do not like a people who live in peace & are contented & they will say yes 
it is Beautiful. Take the world at the present time & they are like wolves. Eat each other up. They 
fight & contend & devour each other. The Abolitionest become Heated & say the Negro must be 
made equal to the white man at the table & all other places. They will at the same time turn away 
the widow & orphan & put into prision a poor man for debt, and deprive him of his time to pay 
the debt. 


Page28 




Instead of this we should feed the Hungry & do good to all men as we have an opportunity. Then 
we have a Zion. It is peace in the Heart. We should bear an evil from a Friend as well as An 
Enemy. You ask the Lord to bear with your infirmities so we should bear with each other. What 
is the necessity of doing wrong having laws suits & contending with each other? Go to Law & 
spend $100 to collect $5. You may be told you are independent & have rights. You have a right 
to do good & not evil. 

The God I serve will deal out good to his Saints & evry thing that is necessary for them & reveal 
his will unto them, & teach them what to do. He will not lie or decieve me. I will ask O Lord, did 
you do this or that? Did you bless this man or that man so & so or did you suffer that evil to be so 
& so? Yes I have done this to try men so & so. Do you want me to do so & so? If I am going to 
do a thing I ask is it the will of God? If I cannot get the will of God upon it I refuse to do it lest I 
do a thing wrong. 

We want to do right. Then we prosper. Is the people doing right? Is the kingdom growing? Is 
their principles in this kingdom to govern all men with? All that the Nations of the Earth Now 
possess would not make this people Happy as they now are. Give us the kingdom of God instead 
of the glories of the world. 

Their has been a great stir to exhalt the Negro & make him equal to the white man but there is a 
curse upon the seed of Cain & all Hell cannot wipe it out & it cannot be taken off untill God 
takes if off. When A person unlawfully seeks for power & exhaltation by taking the blessings 
which belongs to Another He will sink far below the other. As Lucipher the son of the morning 
Sought the glory that belonged to Christ the first Bom He was thrust down to Hell. So Cain 
sought Abels Blessing & took the life of his brother. The consequence was Cain was cursed & 
his seed & this curse will remain untill Abels posterity will get all the Blessing their is for him. 
Then the curse may be taken from Cain or his posterity but his posterity will be below Abels. All 
are slaves. Polititions are the worst slaves And if we dont do right we shall ketch the lash. We are 
the freest people on Earth. Queen Victoria is A slave. Had to Ask the liberty to Marry prince 
Albert. But we are free. We have the right God & kingdom. 

Let us not dishonor God His kingdom or our Brethren. If we do we shall sink below them & their 
children. If the wife dishonors the Husband the children will dishonor the Mother & she must 
welter under it. Honour the priesthood in all its parts. Be more faithful. Be more prudent. 
Administer to the wants of All as far as you can. I will not quarrel with my neighbor about the 
water if I loose the wheel for if my Neighbors raises wheat I can obtain some of it to eat. Other 
remarks were maid By the speaker. [No 30 June entry.] 

July 

July 1st I commenced laying Adobies in my House this day. 

2 & 3 We continued building the House. 


Page29 




July 4th * In celebration of the Independance of America the City of the great Salt Lake poured 
forth her inhabitants who went forth in good order with her Legion of mighty men As an Escort 
to the Govomor & citizens of the state. The company organized at the Temple square & started at 
9 oclok in the morning to take a ride to the great Salt Lake. Their was about 140 carriages of 
waggons besides the Horsemen. The car containing the Band of Musicions was drawn by 16 
mules. We arived at the rock on the Lake at 2 oclock A[.P ].M. We had A meeting. Was 
Addressed By Govornor Young & several Orators who spoke much to the edifycation of the 
people. In the evening many went into the salt lake to bathe. At 10 oclk the signal was given for 
prayers when all assembled in the carrell or circle And prayer was offered up before God & the 
encampment retired to rest. We were 24 miles from the city. 

5th At 10 oclok AM All the teams were hitched up & we returned to the City of the Great Salt 
Lake in the same Order that we came out. It was as plesant a forth of July As I ever spent. My 
own family & Sister Foss & her family went out together in a large family waggon drawn by 4 
Horses. 

Sunday 6th President Young Remarked we get good from all men who speak by the spirit of God 
& according to their calling. I speak free. So may all men. If we speak incorrect we should be 
corrected. We want to speak free that we may gather good whether it is in the past present or to 
come. Brother Kempton has been speaking. He professes to be a scholar. I do not. But He has 
murdered the english language today. I want speakers to speak the English language correctly for 
our children sake. 

As to principles their is no principles in Heaven Earth or Hell but what the Saints have to Appley 
to their proper place. If we could understand all things we should know that Here is the place to 
begin to make the people Happy. If we could understand the dealings & providences of God with 
us & the object of it their would not be the discontent & murmerings of the people that their now 
is. But we should have peace Joy & Contentment. 

Concerning spiritual & temporal things I would say that temporal & spiritual things are one. But 
what we call temporal are the courser things which we see with our Eyes [bu?]t the finer or 
spiritual things we cannot see with our Eyes unless they are touched By the spirit of God. Then 
we could see spiritual things. To say the spiritual eye cannot see temporal things is folly. But it 
looks unnatural to see people put out their own eyes to spite their Neighbor. Anciently God 
Angels & Eternal things were considered Natural. My mind can see many things when clothed 
with the spirit of God that my Eyes cannot. 

In speaking of Hell it is called vary hot. But our God is a consumeing fire. Hell is here. It is said 
the devil was cast down to the earth. Also that he was cast down to Hell. He is in our midst 
striveing to lead captive the children of men. 

I want the Brethren to speak freely to speak all that is in you & if you have an Error let it out & 
exchange it for true principle. Some of the Saints want more Revelation mysteries, great things. 


Page30 




But do they know what they ask for or what they have already got? If the request of many men 
was granted it would be like casting pearles before swine. They would trample them in the mire. 
We have Enough now of the key words & tokens to take us through the veil into the celestial 
world & lead us to the Throne of God, & what more do you want? Have you ever pondered in 
your hearts By visions & the spirit of God Eternal things even the redeeming of all worlds? From 
there down to the smallest things God Has made? Have you ever reflected upon the Great system 
of Salvation of the creatures of God? Is man Contented? He is not. Can man alter the Decrees of 
God Concerning the seed of Abraham or any thing Els? He cannot. Why not quarrel about Christ 
Coming instead of the Father? 

When the Father Appointed Jesus Christ the first Born to come & redeem the Earth there was 
Contention got up. The second Brother Lucipher the Son of the Morning He wanted the Honour 
to come & Redeem the Earth. But Christ was the Appointed one. It was his right By 
Appointment & Birthright. But the war & contention became so Hot & the influence of Lucipher 
was so Great that He Got one third of the Hosts in Heaven to Join his Standard & when He was 
Hurled down to Hell like lightning from Heaven one third was cast down with him. Whare is He 
& those that were cast down? With those spirts that accompanied him. They are here on this 
Earth and they have Blinded the Children of men & [are] still seeking to overthrow the kingdom 
of God. He is a thorn in the flesh to the Children of God. 

But this is all right & we should be contented with what God sees fit to Grant unto us & be 
contented with our lot. If the devil Had Been contented & acted in his place He would not Have 
Been thrust down to Hell. Any man who seeks to do a thing that He cannot do & should not do it 
cast him into Hell & makes a Hell for him when men ask for things that does not belong to him 
& it makes him unhappy. But do what God wants you to do & wait on those who are above you 
& all will be right. 

Why did not one of the Apostles quarrel with Jesus Christ to Redeem the world? Jesus set a little 
child in their midst & said if ye do not become as this little child you cannot Enter into the 
kingdom of God. If you would be the Greatest man in the kingdom of God you must be the 
Greatest slave or servant. You will do more than any other man. The Apostles did not quarrel to 
know who should or should not be president. Why do I or you not quarrel? Because we were not 
Joseph Smith. To want to & cannot is Hell. Never seek to do a thing you cannot accomplish. 

Evry man has his lot appointed Him & he should be contented with it. Their is the work of God, 
Angels, men & Devils. 

Is the Bible Good? The Book of Mormon Doctrins & Covenants? Yes they are good. Those Book 
contain the words of God Angels Men & Devils. And if you dont want to be in Hell all the time 
be contented with your lot. If you dont leam to Be contented you will be in Hell with Brother 
Kempton who sayes He was in Hell one year. Then learn to Be contented and you will be Happy. 
Dont Complain Because you are not God, Jesus Christ, An Angel Joseph, Brigham A man A 
woman A Father A Mother A Son A Daughter or any thing Els but be contented with the lot in 
which God has placed you. Then you will be Happy & Blessed. 


Page3 1 




The Blacks cannot take the curse off themselves untill God takes it off Make all men Saints & 
they will treat each other well. So the Lamanites are Cursed. But is there not Blessings for them? 
Yes the Same as their is for the Saints for Joseph, Brigham, & Jesus Christ & All Faithful men & 
women in their time & Season. So be Contented. 

7 8 9th 10 11 & 12 This week was spent in building my House except Monday the 7th I spent in 
the council House with my Brethren labouring in the duties of my office. 

13th Sunday Met as usual at the Bowery. Elder Sherwood preached in the forenoon A lengthy 
discourse which was Edifying to the people. In the Afternoon Elder Kimball Father Smith E D 
Woolley & President Young spoke. 

Among the Presidents Remarks he said why should we not know our own talents & Abilities as 
well as others? If we do not their is sumthing lacking. Concerning singing their are some men 
who know sound & others do not & those who do not know sound ought not to sing. We should 
act upon what we do know & let the rest go. Sherwood said He thought we were kicked out of 
the fire into the frying pan. President Young said we were kicked out of the fire into the middle 
of the floor. When this people get their Eyes open so as to see that their interest lies in building 
up of the kingdom of God then the kingdom of God will roll on And the people will do better. 

14th I spent the day in the Council chambers with my Brethren. I Herd two interesting letters read 
from our Friend & Brother Col Kane of Philadelphia. Kinkade had a large train of Goods arive to 
day. 

15 Some of the Government Officers & their train arived to day. 

16 17 18 & 19 I spent the time building my House. /Bulah Augusta bom this 19 July 1851./ 

20th Brother Kempton was vary anxious to preach from text Abrams bosom. Liberty was granted 
him And He went ahead but did not do much. 

President Young followed & said Brother Kempton has had his liberty as is given to evry man 
who speaks here. He has not satisfyed his mind at all. He may have much in his mind but can say 
but little Here. He is not able to Handle the scriptures & know all the spirits in the world as some 
can. When the dark sayings in the scriptures are understood they are plain. The scriptures Here 
that speaks of Abrams bosom is not as given By Br Kempton. Abram is in paradise. Lazarus is 
with him. 

For me to explain is to tell the truth. A man that feels & talks to the people should be a Bible of 
himself. If a man that teaches & leads the people is not filled with truth so as to be Able to teach 
the people without quoting the teachings of others altogether is a Blind guide & will go to Hell 
with those He leads. 

It is the intention of the Lord to teach men principle in progression untill He shall know all things 


Page32 




that He may arise through faith power & victory untill they obtain evry good thing even to arise 
to be Gods even the Sons of God which Blessing we cannot obtain without experience. We 
should not sin when we are tryed & tempted But overcome which will give us Glory Honor & 
Eternal life. As fast as I improve upon what I have more will be given me. The Savior was 
subject to all that we were from his birth to his death. He applyed his heart unto wisdom. We 
Should do so to apply our hearts unto wisdom from day to day And you will receive all that He 
did. If I through out all that is in me what faults I have will give place for truth & that is good. I 
feel to praise the Name of God for all He has done for me. My heart is like Aminidab 
Continually. 

All persons see times when they wish truth to prevail. Mormonism is all truth. The Lord has 
raised up a Prophet & Seer who brought it forth & esstablished it. He was faithful unto death & 
sealed his testimony with his Blood. A certain prophecy sayes when the Book of Mormon shall 
come unto the Gentile the Jews shall be gathered at Jerrusalem. All truth is ours in Heaven Earth 
& Hell. It is all the truth we want. 

But does the church or Elders want correcting? Yes for they have Errors & fals Notions. The net 
has all kinds of fish. We have some as Cursed Rascals among us as dwell on the Earth And we 
find Evil Here as well as any whare els. Yet Zion is here. It is in my heart. Peace dwells with me 
& good principles will prevail Here untill all evil is overcome even in all the Earth. Let no man 
find fault with his Neighbor untill He is righteous. I dont Ask any thing of others that I wont do 
myself. And never find fault with another about any thing you allow in yourself. Dont you sware 
scold, & do wrong yourself? Then dont find fault with another for it untill you subdue your own 
passions & the Evil that is in yourself. Some will do any thing to preside over another when they 
cannot preside over themselves. Now remember this that we will have Zion when all wickedness 
is gone. We have got to fight fight fight untill we gain the victory over ourselves. Remember this 
& overcome. 

What is the feelings of my heart? It is to Bless the people & do them good. 

21, 22 & 23d Spent the time on my house. 

JULY 24th * This is an important day with the Saints of God in the valliey of the Mountains. The 
following is An extract from the Deseret News: 

"The Celebration of the 24 of July." The Anniversary of the enterance of the Latter Day Saints 
Pioneers into the valley of the Great Salt Lake. The approach of the rising king of Day was hailed 
by the roar of cannon & the stillness of the Morning was Broaken By the moveing of the 
Mammoth Carriage of the Nauvoo Brass Band sending forth on the wings of the Morning its 
sublime straines of martial & cheering music & the Citizens of Great Salt Lake Shot forth from 
their domestic circles dressed as in the robes of beauty concentrating towards the scene of a 
congregated throng of life whare the ebullitions of Joy the rose of Health the [g?]laness of 
intelligence & the combined feelings of an united & redeemed people shed a lustre of glory 
through all the Congregated Saints. 


Page33 




"The order of the day was kept up by the fircing of cannon 110 times. The organization & 
parading of Streets by an escort consisting of the Nauvoo Brass band the Military Band the 
Pioneers of 47 the Regency, the aged Fathers young lads, followed By the Mothers in Israel 
young girls, young men & young women the Presidency with the officers of State formed the 
escorted party. In their rear were 24 Bishops forming a Phalanx of the combined wisdom & 
strength of the Kingdom of God in the last days. The numerous flags & Banners the various 
Emblems of art agriculture & industry & the music accompanying the procession from the 
presidents residence to the Bowery could ownly be surpassed in the Armies of heaven. 

The bursts of feelings by music, singing, speeches, orations, toasts the order of arangement 
during the exercises in the Bowery was beyond the most exquisite calculation of the most 
fastidious & was unsurpassed by any proceding i[t/f?] among the most refined & civilized nation 
on Earth. Here was the power of truth the literature of Gods spirit, the Eloguence of Apostles, the 
laws of the kingdom of Heaven, the Songs of Zion sung not in a Strange land & the Harps hung 
not upon the willows the beauty & ornament of the beau ideal of mans existence the ladies of 
Deseret the Heroism of the valiant of the Earth & the Enjoyment of the luxuries And productions 
of a consecrated land in all its richness & profusion & the enjoyment of contentment. 

The closing shades of evening came over the city without the alloy of any accident to mar the 
procedings of the Hallowed day. No curses of a drinking rabble no feelings of an ignorant or 
Jealous bigotry, no effusion of party strife but all that could elevate the mind of man & add to the 
enjoyment of a social & civilized [ ]. Among the speeches made was an interesting one from 

W W. Phelps. 

In many respects this was the most interesting day of my life. My Father, myself, & my Children 
making three generations in the linage of my Fathers was in that Grand Escort to Honor the Holy 
Prophets of God while on their march from President Youngs House to the Tabernacle which 
was filled with the Saints of the Most High. 

25 & 26 I spent the time about my dwelling. 

27th Sunday I attended meeting. We had a good day. Brother Kimball addressed the meeting a 
part of the day. Among other remarks He said Jesus Christ was the first Born of the Father & He 
was the candidate & Elected to redeem the world. Lucipher set up as a candidate to run against 
Jesus Christ But He was overcome & thrust down to Hell with all that followed him. And we will 
have no more division Henceforth & forever in Israel. We will have but one candidate for office 
but No opposition. All will be Elected & proven. If a person is qualifyed to fill a greater station 
than He holds He will have a chance. The Presidency & Twelve will fill in Eternity those stations 
Appointed them. So with all men. But I expect to remain on this Earth untill I am able to create a 
world of my own & people it. The lord Has given us rich portions of the Earth to inherit. We 
have been driven from time to time from th[ere?]. We now inherit a goodly land the best land on 
the Earth for vegitation & it will be good for fruit & the people of the Earth will yet Come to us 
for fruit. 


Page34 




28, 29, 30, 3 1 I spent in my Harvest field. 


August 

Aug 1 & 2d I spent Harvesting. I Had 20 Acres of wheat 5 Acres of 7 Headed wheat. Was vary 
stout. Supposed to yield 60 or 70 bushels to the Acres. I Had 10 Acres of rouse & 5 Acres of 
club. 

3d Sunday I attended meeting. Dr Bernhisel occupyed the time in the forenoon giving an account 
of His procedings in Washington also His obtaining A library for Deserett. 

4, 5, 6, 7, 8, & 9 I spent this week Harvesting & going to Dr Richards kanyon which was a 
Horrid road. 

10th Sunday I Attended Meeting. Brother Babbit Attended meeting & Addressed the Assembly 
in the forenoon mostly upon the gospel & priesthood. 

11 12&13/14 15&16/I spent the time mowing & Harvesting. 

44 4# 44 17 Sunday I was unwell & was at Home. 

18 19 & 20 I laboured. 

? 2 1st 22d & 23 I spent the time in Council with some 40 or 50 men And they were some of the 
Best days of my life. Much good was done. Light truth & the power of God was manifest. 
Difficulties of long standing Between men were settelled. The power of God was upon president 
Young who is made By the power of God a great good & glorious man & a Father indeed to the 
Church & kingdom of God. 

24th Sunday Elder O Hyde Addressed the meeting & said the floods in the western states Had 
been exceding High so much so that many could not Emigrate. There were about 700 wnggons 
on the way. The spirit of Emigration was among all Nations. The Seas were white with the sails 
of evry Nation who were emigrating to this Country to find a Home. Many might Embrace the 
Gospel & come to Zion & Help builb it up. 

The feelings of the saints are if 1 can get to the valley then 1 Shall be Happy. Then some want to 
Go to Sanpete to Iron County & to Sandiego. Then they would not be satisfyed & people wish to 
Emigrate to another world & think when they get to Heaven their sorrow will end but their will 
be things for us to reach after still when we are there & it will continue through all Eternity. 

Their is many Novels written & painted out but we do not want fals things to interest us. But Just 
look into the Book of Nature & evry thing whether it looks up or down points to God. God is 
seen in it all. 

Evry substance is surrounded with an Atmosphere in some respects shows what is within. So 


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their is an Atmosphere surrounds All persons which you feel when you meet with them. Some 
persons Atmosphere you light like others you do not. With some you feel safe others you do not. 
It is so in meeting with families. Jesus Said when you go into a House let your peace dwell upon 
it but if they do not receive you let your peace return unto you again. This is true doctrin. (Let my 
Atmosphere be good so that the spirit of God & good men may dwell with me in peace for that 
person who dwells near the Lord & has an Eye single to his glory can tell whether He has the 
spirit of God or not when He meets with him. Many bodies are Opake & not luminous but when 
the light of a luminous body strikes them it sets them all in a Blaze. So with one who has the 
spirit of God. When his spirit rests upon another it overshadows him. It sets him in a Blaze & the 
great light can see the Heart. We are all as it were painters painting our own characters. And evry 
good deed will give our sign a white Coulor & evry wicked deed a Black Colour & when we 
have painted unto the End of Our days our character will be presented before God in its true light 
& we shall see as we are seen & know as we are known. 

Some think the Judgment will not be untill after the resurrection of some thousands of years. But 
remember that when you lie down at night & are weary and fall asleep before you are aware of it 
the morning comes the time is past & you are awoke. But in the church & kingdom of God what 
is sealed on Earth is sealed in Heaven what is bound on Earth is bound in Heaven. And if a man 
sins He is soon brought into Judgment for now is the Judgment with Him. God will Judge the 
world But He may not Judge an individual Himself but His servants will Judge them under his 
direction. It is said the Saints will Judge Angels But what Angels? Why fallen Angels. For those 
Angels who remain in Heaven are now Above us while those who are fallen are below us. For 
who is better Able to Judge them than the Saints who cast them out? Many other interesting 
Remarks were made By Elder Hyde. 

Elder H. C. Kimball Arose & said the remarks of Elder Hyde were Good And I will Apply them 
And I want all to lift up their sign And I want to imitate the Best painted sign in Israel & the 
character that is most like God. I never expect to see a time in all Eternity but What I shall have 
to abide a law be trimmed & scourged untill I am a fit subject to become a God. If you get into 
Heaven & rebell you will be cast out. Their is always danger of falling as long as we are going up 
a ladder. 

11 Aug 25th [] I spent the day in Council with my 1501 Brethren & while in the Council the Mail 
arived from the States in 20 days from Independance the largest ever recieved about 400 lbs. I 
received 3 letters one from Azmon one from Thompson & one from Ilus. 

My Brothers Azmon & Thompson Woodruff informed me in their letters that my Step Mother 
Azubah Woodruff Died {March 20th} 1851 At 7 1/2 oclok P.M. And that my Brothers Azmons 
wife Elizabeth Woodruff Died {January 3d} 1851. Both were ow[n/r?] sisters by Birth. 

I found from Brother Azmons letter that He was in much Sorrow. He was Baptized into the 
Church of Jesus Christ of latter day Saints with myself the last of Dec in 1833. He was ordained 
an Elder And myself a teacher in the church under the Hands of Zerah Pulsipher. Elizabeth my 


Page36 




Brothers wife with the assistance of the Devil made war on my Brother & soon caused him to 
leave the Church. He Has been in sorrow ever since. With the Help of the Lord I now intend to 
feel after my Brethren & bring them Here that they may be saved. 

On my Arival Home with my letters I called My Aged Father into the Room with me & red him 
the letters from His two oldest Sons containing an account of the death of Both his own wife & 
his Sons wife. He was quite resigned to the providence of God in these things. 

26, 27, 28, 29 I spent a part of the time in Council & a part of it in the Harvest field. Brother G A 
Smith Arived Home from Iron County on the 28th in good Health. 

30th I was in Council with the Elders & Herd a long letter red from Lorenzo Snow. 

3 1 Sunday Elder G A Smith preached to the people & was followed by Elder O Hyde. 

September 

Sept 1st* I wrote 3 letters one long letter to Ilus one to Thompson Woodruff & One to Father 
Carter. 

I sent Sanbon & Carter $1,825.30 

Sent A draft to Sanbon & Carter from $ 1 ,237.32 
B Young on Dr J M Bemhisel. (Total sent $3,062.62 
Deseret Coin was $772.50. 

I Also sent A letter to uncle Ozem Woodruff giving him an invitation to come & settle with us. 

2, 3, & 4 Was sick & not able to labour. 

5 & 6 Spent the time Hunting our family Cow Mosel. 

Sept 7th 1851 Our general Conference of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints met in 
the tabernacle this day at 10 oclk AM there being present of the first Presidency B. Young H. C. 
Kimball & W Richards of the Quorum of the Twelve O. Hyde W. Woodruff G A Smith & E T 
Benson, The first seven presidents of the Seventies with the other Quoroms & a large 
Congregation of Saints. 

President H C Kimball Arose & Said the Conference was not for the benefit of one but for the 
whole. Is the Store House full of wheat? Is the tithing Butter & cheese brought in? Some of you 
will Ask can I get my Endowment? But I will say not one of you will get your endowments untill 
you pay your tithing. Prayer By O Hyde then singing. 

President Young Arose And said as far as you can exercise patience you should do so. We are in 
comfortable circumstances & now let us sit here & worship God & let our business rest & let us 
reflet a little & exercise ourselves in our religion. Let our Houses rest & farms & crops. Let the 
people be still & not talk in the House or about the window. 


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In my meditations I am like other men who reflet And I marvel to see men so intent upon objects 
that will so soon perish. How many their are here who ask the question how long will this 
Conference last? I want to go. I cannot stop. And others will be willing to Stop & worship God. 
Some spirits are like the troubled Sea. Uneasy. If I could have my wish about it I would wish 
such spirits to pass out of our midst leave the Congregation & let us worship in peace. 

We are such an industrious people that we Could not commence conference untill Sunday. I care 
as little about our gardens farms lumber &c as you do about snuffing Ashes. If you get all the 
riches of the world you cannot Hold them. If you will get the wisdom it is your privilege to 
possess you will know that God cares more for you than the ravens. If you seek the Kingdom of 
God & its righteousness the Lord will add all things Els that is necessary. 

Our first duty is to provide for our families but we must take a course to accomplish it. Fools are 
often rich & the wise in Begery. This is the providence of God. We may be ever so rich to day. 
We may be beggars to morrow. This is the case with those who are Before me. 

Let me draw the line between the Good & Evil. Have you not had more good than Evil? More 
than you would had if you had been in the world? More peace than in the world & happiness in 
the meditation of the things of God than in the world? Yes you have. Then shame on the man 
who complains of his Hardship. The worst persecutions of the people are their best days. I went 
to Mo in 1834. Walked 2,000 miles in 70 days. Was so weak I could not step over the fence 3 
feet High. I now Have better Health & strength than ever before. I would not give all Geaugo 
County for the experience I have had in 6 months. Now stay Here. Dont go home untill 
Conference Ends. 

Many of the Saints [forget?] mormonism. Any body who Enjoy the light of the revelations of 
Jesus Christ must have the spirit of God. The / key to mormonism is all the truths their is All 
Eternity that was ever revealed or ever will be that Exhists with God Angels or men. Whare shall 
I Go to Find truth? In Mormonism. If you get a truth any whare it is there as that Covers all truth. 
When the light came to me sin did not revive in me And I died but I revived & lived. I Had not 
consented to the death of Any good man like Stephen as Paul did. But let him come to Any of the 
Churches reared in honour to his name & the world would kill him if they could. I will ask you 
are you excepted of the Father & Son? You will say I dont know. Well it is because your minds 
are taken up with the things of the world. Then let us stay here untill we do know. 

I Am A Mormon or what is called so And I know that Joseph was A prophet. It was revealed to 
me long before his death. I always thought while reading the Bible About a prophet that I would 
go around the world to see one or any man who knew things as they were & not have to guess at 
them. Evry thing will have to Bow to Mormonism or Eternal light & truth. We have the true 
government of all the Earth. I know the path this people has to walk. I am prepared for 
Mormonism. There was no Better man than Joseph Smith ever lived on the Earth. Hear it O ye 
Heavens & ye Earth and all men. This is my testimony that He is as good a man as ever lived 
save Jesus. The world will not vote for a man because his religion governs. They will not have 


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God govern them because of their Cursed meanness. But if God did not or can not deal out 
Justice & rule in righteousness who can? 

E T Benson spoke to Edifycation. Said some bore record of the things of God as they were 
revealed to them. Others believe on their testimony. The servants of God Bind & Seal on Earth & 
it is Bound & Sealed in Heaven. I bear testimony that we have a prophet that will hold the keys 
of the kingdom of God through All Eternity Also a Patriarch. Both have sealed their testimony 
with their Blood for the cause & kingdom of God. Mormonism is true & the keys of the kingdom 
of God are with you. The presidency of the Church who now live with us And are righteous men 
the Twelve, High priest, High Council, Seventies & Elders of Israel are Righteous men. Joseph 
said we went into the little End of the Horn & came out of the big End of the Horn. Any thing is 
ours if we are faithful & do the will of the Lord. 

0 Hyde took the floor And said this is one of the Happiest periods of my life. The testimony of 
all is good. If the Brethren who have spoken have broaken a clean loaf still I may gather few 
Crumbs. We are living in the most important age And when the Greatest events are to take place. 
Evry thing is on the move. The testimony of this work will go through the Earth And the Lord 
will arise out of His Hiding place And reign King of Nations As He does now king of Saints. 

This would destroy all the Governments of the Earth. 

Do the Latter day Saints wish the Nations of the Earth any Evil? No we would save them all if 
we Could. But it was a mercy Anciently to Cut off the wicked from the Earth that their posterity 
should not inherit the Earth to follow the wickedness of their fathers. Gog & Magog will ere long 
gather to fight against the Saints of the Lamb of God. And when Hope is almost fled Christ will 
come and End the scenery. 

If a prophet has been schooled in the society of the Gods to come to the Earth as A prophet to do 
a work for the kingdom He has the power of God with him to Help him do it the same as we 
Ordain a man to build up A County whare we cannot go. So when A prophet comes He comes 
Holding the keys of the kingdom of God & binds & seals on Earth that which is bound & sealed 
in Heaven. 

G A Smith Arose And said if I did not know the truth I should not have taken the pains I Have to 
preach it to the world And Act the part I have in it. But I know that God has sent a Prophet to us 
And Ordained a Priesthood & set up his kingdom on Earth. And A religion that is not evry thing 
is nothing. 

Jesus broke bread & said Eat in rememberance of me And this do untill I come And always 
remember me. When Joseph was murdered the piety of the people did not oppose His murder. 
When they arise will it be with white Robes? No but with gannents spotted with Blood of the 
Prophets. None on the Earth Had sympathy but the Saints. 

1 have been spending a time to build up a stake in the wilderness. Why is it we have been driven 
to these vallies of the mountains? Is it not that we may be sheltered when the Judgments of God 


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come on Babylon? A man should not be so taken up with his farm as to Forget this work. Some 
will say I have done so much for this Church that I must now do sumthing for myself. There is 
now many in Jackson Co who are waiting for the Saints to come there but they will not get the 
Blessings. Those will who have come to the Salt Lake valley. This is the best way to Heaven. 
Some want to go to Calafomia to get rich. I want men to go with me who want to go to meeting 
and Get reproof & kiss the rod. I had such men with me & we done well. I bear testimony that 
God is with this people. 

W Woodruff Addressed the meeting & said He was much interested & Edifyed in the testimony 
which had been bourn by the presidency & Twelve & those who had spoken. President Young 
had borne testimony that Joseph Smith was a prophet of God. He was well qualifyed to bear 
testimony of him. He has been with him day & night in his public & private Councils. He knows 
his life And He has followed close in His footsteps. He always loved him And [had] He have 
been in Nauvoo at the time of his Arest He would Have stove the Bam doors into kindling wood 
with his fist if He could not have liberated him any other way. Their is sumthing interesting in 
the testimony of men. The ancients were martered for the testimony which they Held which they 
bore of Jesus Christ. So men in this day are opposed for their testimony. But I know Joseph 
Smith was A prophet of God. So is Brigham Young. The mantle of Joseph rest upon him And He 
has power to lead this people And my soul is filled with Joy when He stands Here & speaks the 
word of the Lord & brings forth the glorious things of the kingdom of God. 

President Young Said I read that when the wicked rule the people mourn. Ask the world do the 
wicked rule? Yes And they mourn. Do they seek a righteous man to rule? No. If the curse has 
followed the rule of the wicked will follow but let them sleep on & take your rest. But we 
understand the Lord has rent the veil sent Angels to us And the gospel to preach to the poor. The 
difference between us & the world is they say but do not nor believe not. We say & both believe 
& do. The world spend thousands of Dollars to preach the gospel but do not Believe it. When the 
Judgments of God rest upon the wicked & they are Cut off then will be the [....] ing of Grapes 
after the vintage is done. 

Let the Righteous reign & the Righteous will rejoice in the House of Israel. God takes up the 
Isles as a little thing builds up & pulls down at his pleasure And why are not the people willing 
He should reign? Because of their meanness. Some may ask do not good man reign? I will Ask a 
question. Should An Angel come to President Fillmore & tell him How to govern the Nation & 
He was to tell of it they would shut him up in a mad House. And if God was to reveal to him 
truth concerning the people & He was to tell of it the people would kill him. This is the situation 
of this government the Best on Earth. But let the president sware & take the name of God in 
vaine & curse God i[n a?] 11 its form [and] they would let him stay with them as Hail fellows well 
met. And the Nations will be damned & go to Hell. 

Who killed Joseph? The State of 111 in Connexion with the Carthage Mob And the whole 
Government Sustained it & they will be damned from the President to the least member. I think 
no more of A King or President than of the meanest poorest Begger. The worst Scoundrel is the 


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most popular man in the Nation. This Nation is the first the gospel was sent unto. She has killed 
the prophets that God sent unto them & their doom will be the neithennost Hell. 

W. Richards says we have had much testimony to day. I will Add a few words. When Hiram 
Smith fell in Carthage Jail And exclaimed I am a dead man then Joseph Smith fell dead John 
Taylor fell wounded. I Carried him to another part of the Jail and covered him up. I walked out 
before the people & said that Joseph & Hiram Smith who lay before me slain were two of the 
best men that ever lived. Joseph Smith was A prophet of God & Hiram A Patriarch. Two Better 
men never lived. Two Better men God never made. Joseph was A Prophet. Brigham is as Great a 
Prophet And He that Believeth it may be saved & He that Believeth it not will be damned. 

Monday Morning 8th Judge Brochus requested the privilege of Addressing the people. It was 
granted him. He arose And commenced his speach by testifying of his kind reception among this 
people. He had Been sick among them & Been kindly treated. The flies had been brushed from 
his face by a Lady & he was thankful. He refered to the Judiciary. Requested the people to 
sustain it & professed to be vary sorry that He was going to leave it. He then refered to a report in 
circulation that He came Here for the Purpose of being returned A delegate to Washington & 
other things that were reported against him & c. 

He then took up the subject of his Appointment And Said that President Fillmore Had appointed 
him Although He was A Democratt & said He should not have received his Appointment had He 
not been a Capable virtuous good man. He then Addressed the Ladies upon the subject of the 
Washington Monument. Wished them to procure A Block of Marble & to present it to 
Washington. Also wished them to donate for the Building of the Monument. Talked Much about 
the virtues of Washington & his Battles & good deeds. 

He spoke of the persecution of the Saints. Considered them Badly treated. Sent to Winter 
Quarters whare our Dead was buried & had a sprig of Myrtle plucked. He carried it in his bosom. 
It was now dryed up. He showed it to the Congregation. 

In speaking to the Ladies said He hoped they would become a virtueous people. He did not wish 
them to send the Block of Marble unless they could do it in full fellowship with each of the 
seperate states Composing the United States. He had red some things Casting Reflections upon 
the United States Government concerning our persecutions. But He would defend the 
government as long as He had an Tongue to speak or Hand to lift And said the Government 
could not do any thing for us as they had No power. But if we wanted redress of our wrongs 
Apply to Missouri & Illinois whare we had received our [wrongs]. (This part of the speech stired 
the Blood of the whole congregation.) Much was said By the speaker which was Calculated to 
Stir the Blood of the people And offend them. He then Closed. 

President Young arose & Said the Judge Brochus was either profoundly Ignorant or wilfully 
wicked In presenting some sentiments which He had to the Assembly to day & had He have 
supposed for a moment that He was going to throw out a Challenge upon that Stand in a religious 
Meeting & present such sentiments as He had He should not for a moment have given his 


Page4 1 




consent to have had him spoken on that occasion. He said several stood by & wished to take up 
the Challenge given by the Judge But He would not pennit of it for some might get their Hair 
pulled if not their throats cut And He would not Have it. He wished the meeting to Adjourn & 
meet in the Afternoon & transact Business in the capacity of a Conference for which the meeting 
was called. Meeting Adjourned one hour. 

Met according to Adjournment. After Singing & prayer Brother Kempton addressed the meeting. 
Was followed By Broth Gifford. Br John Young next addressed the House & was followed By H. 
C. Kimball who said I will tell one thing that will have a great Effect upon us. [We] will remove 
the mist when we Come to the House of the Lord. Bring an offering to the Lord. I will make an 
Offering to the Lord & to the Priesthood As Abraham did to Melchezedic & offer the Best you 
Have. [And?] this law come from Joseph who was ordained under the Hands of Peter. Brigham 
Young was ordained under the Hands of Joseph to Hold the keys of the kingdom of God. If you 
strike against him you strike against God who sent him. The Judges Came Here to Judge 
Criminals not to Judge us who keep the Law. He then sat down & we had a song from the welch 
Brethren. 

President Young then arose & said I will speak of principle. You may think it is a Novel 
Conference. How long has it been since we have had the privilege of spending a conference 
undisturbed? A long time. I would like to hear Brother Kempton speak or any good man. 

I will preach Br Abbott funeral Sermon And the funeral Sennon of All the faithful. His body is 
laid in the dust to rest untill the resurrection forever Blessed is the man that lives & dies a Saint. 

I will tell whether the Messenger sent to Brother Kempton was of God or the Devil. If the 
Messenger sent was of God He would know it. If the messenger was any whare Els but Here He 
must have come from Heaven or from another Hell for we are in Hell. Go to the world & preach 
the gospel. You will find some people as honest & good as Angels as far as they know. But do 
they have Revelations from God & know the things of God? No they do not. If Brother Kempton 
has had his sins forgiven & remitted without Baptism So could all men. But this is false for no 
man could have forgiveness without the Sheding of Blood & Baptism. The Bible says unless you 
keep the commandments you cannot be saved. When Br Kempton sayes he knows his sins were 
forgiven before He was Baptized He dont know what He sayes. At times the spirit of God is 
given to men to see the kingdom of God And they think they are in it when they have not Entered 
the door of Baptism. 

Dont go & call the different Denominations Because their sins are not forgiven them that they are 
always going to dwell in Hell. Lor if they were honest they will have a glory greater than many 
who carry the Gospel to men. Their is as good people among all sects Gentiles Jews & Heathen 
as their is on Earth. They act according to the best light they have. 

What is the condemnation of this Government? Light has Come into the world & men love 
darkness rather the light. They reject that light fight the prophets & shed their Blood. Lor this 
they are damned. 


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Elder Sherwood Arose & said that the priesthood Had made Joseph Brigham & all men what 
they were by the assistance of light & truth. As far as we follow light & truth so far we shall 
Appoxamate towards light & truth & God. If God & Angels were made what they are by truth as 
far as we leam that truth & follow[s out?] the Council of it so far He will be like God & when He 
leaves that truth He goes into darkness & misery. If the united States were practicing truth they 
would be vary different from what they now are. The practice of right things make men rejoice. 
The practice of Evil things make Sorrow. We are Agents to do right or wrong. If A man feels 
disposed to go to Hell He has a right to. It is no mans business. He goes on his own responsibility 
And Agency. So if He wishes to go to Heaven He has A right to By keeping A Celestial law [-] 
do my work to Acceptance. We know many truths We cannot think off. Adjourned untill 2 oclok. 

Met According to Adjournment. The officers of the Church were presented to the Assembly And 
Accepted in the following order: The Presidency, Twelve, President of the Stake, Patriarch, High 
Council, High Priest, Seventies, Bishops Elders priests, Teachers & Deacon, Perpetual 
Emigrating Company & Historian, Building committee. 

President Young sayes I want to Esstablish some travelling Bishops A thing that we never have 
done. When I Approach the subject of the Bishops I pause not with a trembling hand but I want 
to take time & look at it all day until we can see clearer than we now do. This people still stick to 
the world love the world. We should use the world & not worship it. No man is free indeed untill 
He is free in Christ And Above the world. Dont worship the world. You will not be f[ree?] 

Is their any one that has any thing but what God gave him? You cannot make one hair white or 
Black. Now it is our duty to feed cloth & sustain the families of those who are in the vineyard 
preaching. If we let them suffer & they die their Blood will be required at our hands. We as a 
people have never done it yet. But it was time it was done. The Bishops are reproved. They dont 
do their duty. 

N.H. Felt & John Banks was ordained Travelling Bishops. E T Benson J. M Grant & O. Hyde 
were set Apart to Go to kanesville & gather out all the Saints in that region of Country. Samuel 
Richards was Appointed to Go to England. Willard Snow & A. O. Smoot was Appointed to Go 
to England, D Games to Jennany, Dorr P Curriss & Venson Shirtliff on a foreign mission Dr 
Donyan to preach in the Eastern States. 

Clayton then red an account of the Tithing. 

The Patriarch John Smith Said I rejoice to Have the privilege of Speaking to you. I have Been in 
the work since Jan 1832 And am about the oldest man here. I was ordained an Elder under the 
Hands of Joseph Wakefield. The Smith family was Chosen to bring forth this work. My team 
Hailed the first load of Stone to build the kirtland temple. My Son George A Drove the team. 
There was 4 Brothers [of] us in the stand in kirtland. I am now left alone. I was in Jail with 
Joseph & Hiram the night Before they were killed. Next day 3 guns were snaped at me. 


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I Could not weep for a long time. When I did weep I wept much. I have laboured much from that 
[day] untill this to keep things right. It is the little Foxes that spoil the vines. We have A Prophet 
for a leader now pay your tithe & make good measure when you sell any thing, & fulfdl all your 
covenants if made right we shall then prosper in this valley. I Am an Old man & cannot say much 
But I will write a record to be published in the paper. 

H. C. Kimball said I am going to make an offering to president Young. Abram paid tithes to 
Melchezedeck. A certain woman gave a purse. Others filled it. Br Rhodes gave the President 
sixty four pounds of gold for the public works. He has not lacked any thing. You should give the 
Best you have to the Lord & He will pour you out a Blessing that there will not Be room to 
receive it. 

Bishop Edward Hunter spoke. Said He was Appointed the Chief Bishop. Was thankful for the 
Confidence put in him. I want to Bear my testimony of the things of God. He spoke of his 
experience. Wanted to know his duty & was ready to do it. 

W W Phelps spoke. Took for a text Pay your tithing. Brother Chase speaks [right]. Start right, 
keep right & then you will come out right. He spoke well upon tithing. 

B Pulsipher spoke & said I feel thankful to Hear the Aged Brethren speak & bear their testimony 
of the Prophet Joseph. We have had many revelations. Let us improve upon them. 

B Young said I will put the motion. Will the Sisters * vote to quit using tea & coffee? The 
Brethren have voted not to use tobaco. 

I will speak of the Bishops. I spoke of them yesterday, & reproved them sharply. Some wanted 
me to offer an apology to them. I will not. I will see them in Hell before I will do it. If this people 
do not do Better than the Bishops have they will [go to hell] And if you do not do better than you 
have done you will go to Hell. 

I will begin with myself. I have taught the Bishops principle & their duty. Ask them if they can 
do it. No. I will Cut the Bishops off from the Church if they do not do Better. Did I ever Council 
them wrong? You have trampled my council under foot. 

I shall not shrink from duty. I say to all Old & young learn to pray. Pray in your families. Be 
Content in all Circumstances whare the Lord shall place you. Scease your Contention one with 
another. Never go to law. Gather your families together & pray for me & my Brethren & 
yourselves untill A Blessing r[ains upon?] us. 

Noah Packard spoke. Said many things. Said He wanted to be a son of thunder. E. D. Woolley 
Addressed the meeting. Made many good remarks. Said we had a Joseph with us in the person of 
B. Young. 

B. Young wished to say a few words to the Monnon Battalion. Those who are wanting their extra 


Page44 




pay are Applying to [Will?]iam Blair & Babbit. If you apply to these men & give them the papers 
& they cheat you out of it dont Complain, & I say to those men not to take any papers from those 
who have had their pay or sold their claims to others. If you want your pay Apply Here, & you 
can get it. You did not enlist to get $8 per [-]. They Enlisted us to kill us And Because we speak 
our sentiments we are Accused of treason. I dont ask any odds of the U.S. I will Express my 
feelings. To drive us from our Millions & possessions then require us to fight their Battles is not 
right. 

I shall pay my tithing. The Twelve will pay one 10th of their possessions] & the Bishops And all 
will pay their tithing. This is the kingdom of God & if it falls I am willing to fall with it. I had 
rather fall than Stand if the Priesthood falls. All Covenanted to pay their tithing one tenth of all 
they possess. 

Bishop Hunter spoke upon the tithing. Would Begin with himself & wished all the Bishops to do 
the same. Lorenzo Young spoke upon the Tithing. 

President Young said He wished all the people to pay their tithing to the Bishops of their ward. 

He refered to the remarks made by Father Smith on the word of wisdom. He said $50,000 dollars 
had Been spent in the valley during the past year for needless things for Coffee tea Tobaco &c. 
Many others remarks were made By president Young. 

Elder Banks spoke upon the law of liberty. 

President Young followed in reply & said the liberty of the Holy Gospel was peace & 
righteousness. We had no liberty to take away another roans rights but the first principle of 
liberty was resignation & submission for go whare you will to Heaven or Hell you have to submit 
to laws. We are at liberty to Adobt evry Holy principle to all Eternity. Go East North or South 
keep evry thing you want for yourself, wife Children Houses Cattle & create out of the Elements 
evry thing you can yet you are not at liberty to infringe upon the rights of men. You may have the 
privilege to do all things that is done in heaven, Organize the Elements Give Commands & rule 
over kingdoms But be subject to such laws as you are under. The law of liberty is to do right for 
God to all Eternity. The opposite principle is to be discontented with things to be different from 
what they are. This is Hell & all the Hell their is. I dont Care how things are. If I do right we shall 
find the law of liberty to be Eternal life light & peace which will increase to all Eternity. We 
ought not to do an Evil to cause pain to any creature. Still their are some things that would appear 
to be Evil I know to be good to cut some mens heads off as it would be the ownly way they could 
be saved. 

God will increase his kingdom to all Eternity. So shall we increase our kingdom to all Eternity. 
Abraham seed will reign as kings of kings & Lords of Lords & to his seed their is no End. Let 
this people live to do right & the Blessings of God will attend you to all Eternity. Conference was 
Adjourned untill the 6th Oct. 


October 


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Sunday Oct 5th Elder O. Pratt Addressed the Assembly and said I feel thankful to once more 
tread my feet in the valley after being absent 4 years. I feel thankful to behold the faces of my 
brethren & friends & see the improvements that have been made in my Absence. I could not tell 
whare I was. I was in danger of Being lost without a guide. I trust that while I have been absent 
on a mission to Great Britain I have also been Assisting to build up the kingdom of God, & when 
I left I believed it would continue to roll forth. The work had taken such a deep root the powers 
of darkness could not break it up. It seemed at times as though [we?] should take the kingdom. 
The organization of the Church by the Twelve in that Country was so perfect that 
notwithstanding the great spread & increase of the work we can know monthly the state of the 
Churches increase &c throughout the whole realm. The faith of the Saints in that land was 
increasing. A great spirit of Enquiry was manifesting itself in the High ranks of Society 
Esspecially when they Hear of the rapid progress of the work & prosperity of this people. 

We are not hid up as some suppose. It is the general Idea that we are destined to become a great 
people & a Mighty Nation. (Is this treason?) We are a strong people & destined to be stronger 
untill our News reaches the utmost parts of the Earth So that when the Mail comes the question 
will be asked what News do you hear from that mighty people in the Mountains? As the 
Emigration increases & ships Arive It will all increase the work & it will be as impossible to hide 
it from the world as it would for the shining of the Sun to be hid & Zion will be terrible to the 
Nations of the Earth. 

I feel as great a desire to help bear of the kingdom as a man can. I am willing to spend my life & 
all I have to build up this kingdom. I am willing to stay here or go back tomorrow. I presum this 
is the feelings ol the Elders here in this Body. Their is Nothing so Joyful as to build up the 
kingdom. I would rather be abroad binding up the grain than to break up my Fann. If I had all the 
welth of the Earth I would rather go without purse or scrip than to spend the time to work for 
myself. When I look at the magnitude of this work I cannot feel otherwise with the spirit of God 
in my heart. I want to see the Seventies going forth & gathering from all kingdoms & Countries 
& from every Island of the Sea untill all Israel is gatherd. I do not feel to say more to day but will 
sit down & hear from my Brethren. I wish to do my duty while here. 

G A. Smith said it is with pleasure I behold the faces of O. Pratt & others. This is my Fathers 
House. We have had good instruction from our Brother Here. I have spent my time to settel other 
Colonies. We cannot all settel down Here. We should spend our lives to improve & prepare 
ourselves for immortal glory And Exhaltation. I have Exhorted my new Comers to go down to 
the South before they settel Here & help to build up a stake. If you remember the words of God 
in the days of Joseph says Ye are laying the foundation of a great work and ye know it not. We 
are now preparing to have a State soon. Soon the Brethren will come by 10 100 1,000 & 10,000. 
We have at Parowan 80 men & Boys. We want to have evry man who knows any thing about 
making Iron go to Iron Co. & make Iron. As long as we have to buy evry thing & pay 3 prices for 
it we shall be poor. I would rather make our own ware & ploughes than to be a slave to Missouri 
or 111. 


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I never dreamed that when I or any Elder had a mission to preach the Gospel or build up Zion to 
ask to be dismissed or return home untill my work was closed. Such an Idea Never Entered my 
brain. If the Saints will scatter abroad & settle these far vallies we can come up here & present 
our tithings & offering & come & worship as they did in Jerrusalem. Come & raise 1,000 
Bushels of wheat & potatos & say to the Nations of the Earth come & Eat & do somthing to 
build up Zion. 

Afternoon. President Young sayes we hear the Brethren Arise & return thanks for the Blessings 
Received. We can respond to it. The work is of all importance to the Human family. The 
Brethren are all willing to do right & they say Lord not my will but thine be done. If the Lord 
should say come & preach to us we would say Amen to it. The Lord has his means to carry on his 
work And also his own means to do it when the peoples hearts are prepared to do the will of God 
the victory is ours if we come to understanding so as to have the organization of the kingdom of 
God so that evry one acts in unison like a beautiful peace of machinery. [When] we gain the 
victory we shall then know how to order our speech & Conversation aright Before God. 

This is a good people. Cannot we be better? We have faith & knowledge. Cannot we have more 
of it? Yes their is an Eternity of it. We have learned to obey by the things we suffer but what do 
we behold? Their is evil surmising, speaking, & doing. The Evil intruder has not left us. 

Who is keeping this Commandment He that loves his Neighbor as He does himself will save his 
Neighbor Garden & Crops &c? We shall then believe & practice all the Commands. We shall 
Have one Common interest. I dont care what you believe if you practice right & act as though 
you love the Lord & then you will do right. Their is no school like your own experience. 

When I herd George A Smith speak I thought of fonner days when men from Canida & other 
places [would] stop 50 miles this side of kirtland leave the money with the wife go & see Joseph 
& say how I love you. But let Joseph Ask him for a few dollars & they would instantly dodge at 
it. While in the world you would go away. Now you are here I cannot get you to go to the far 
vallies because watter& earth[age?] are not there. 

I felt like crying abot Amasa Company. They were ready to go to Hell. How ready the people are 
to go to Hell. Let the Eyes of the Saints be open. I had to plead with A Lyman & Company for 
days not to go. I could not stay them. Now I want you to go & you wont go. I want to have you 
go to Iron Co. The people here are so full of wheat & good things that they loath it. 

If you dont want to pay your tithing the Lord dont want you tithing untill you go into Hell. If you 
dont want to save yourself nor your child nor your dead dont pay your tithing. If you do want to 
save them pay your tithing for it is for your Benefit not mine. You cannot do the Lord any good 
in it or Add to his glory But it is for yourself. The cattle have Come in well of late And I think 
the Best has been sent in. 

You should be industrious & saving. I dont want my child to be lazy. If I die I dont want any man 


Page47 




to foster [them in?] idleness. Make your cloth your self. I wish my boys had to work as I did for a 
living. 

Monday Oct 6th Conference Assembled according to Adjournment. Singing & Prayer By W W 
Phelps. President Young said the time had come to commence the business of the semianual 
Conference. The business of the last Conference was productive of more good than any 
Conference we ever held. 

The keeping of the word of wisdom has done much good. I will be exceding glad when we arive 
at wisdom in all things. The word of wisdom was given in kirtland 20 years ago for the benefit of 
all Saints. When we live 20 or 50 years longer we shall see that we do not understand much of 
the word of wisdom. We are but babes in understanding wisdom. Who understands it? Was all 
spoken that might be spoken? Their is but one system of explaining any Revelation & that is the 
Revelation of Jesus Christ in the heart of man when He possesses the Holy Ghost. We are 
forbidden to use meat in hot weather. Hot drinks & tobaco is not good for man. You should not 
eat to overload your stomach. Their is a greater lack in my system of wisdom of tempering my 
food & Exercise than in Eating meat or tobaco. 

Tithing is coming in so fast their will not be room to receive it. 

1 wanted this conference to come together So 1 could see their faces not to scold them. 1 want to 
see their faces. They look better to me than all the Glories of the Earth. 1 said when the Brethren 
got out of prision 1 wanted to sit & look at them three weeks. 

Our graineries & store House are full of wheat & good things. If this people are rich Beautiful & 
Happy 1 am with them. If they are miserable 1 am still with them. If the people are not all 
Crowned & saved none of us will be. :]■ ft is in vain for one man to build himself up & neglect his 
brothers interest. He will fail in it. 

We must begin to manifacture all we want or we are slaves to every thing in all the Earth. Evry 
thing is against Monnonism & Monnonism is against evry thing. Every thing is against us. Hear 
it O Earth for the kingdom of God is against all Earth & Hell. This is true & we shall fight them 
untill the kingdom of this world become the kingdom of our God. We shall fight Battle after 
Battle untill the victory is won we have to fight & lay down our lives for Christ sake. 

We now want to gather Companies to go to the different vallies. I want the potters to rem[ain] 
here & work at their Business. Jesus descended Below all things before He Ascended Above all 
things. We have got to sacrafice eve[r/n?] freely in order to be exhalted before God. I once said I 
will go & build me a House On the Hill out of the mud. Joseph said you will stay whare you are. 
This was Enough. I dodged as quick as I could. I Said Enough. Since [then] I have been willing 
to be Governed by circumstances that have surrounded me & leave the event in the Hands of 
God. 

Judge Snow said I arived in the valley in July [-]. I expected to Sit & Hear & learn. I have been a 


Page48 




silent observer of your temporal & spiritual matters. Your Governor has laid a foundation for you 
to build upon. I consider it to be the province of this people to determine for themselves what 
they most need. I do not see that you will break any law of God in doing right & your own will. I 
like the remarks made that you be free & not abject slaves. Make what you want & be free. Buy 
all you want & be slaves. We say we look to God & do his will. We are a little people upon a 
little patch of the Earth but if we all pull together we shall become the Head. I did not run with 
the rest because I thought it right to stay. If I thought it right to run I should run but it was right to 
stay. So you must be right. 

The Lord said you must gain your Bread by the sweat of the Brow. You must make your own 
leather or you cannot get money enough to buy it with. So with tea Coffee & sugar. You must 
raise & make it or go without it. You must make your own Iron or fail for Iron must be had. 
Leather & Iron must be made & make your own clothing. 

I like your Conferences & to hear the Best men speak to communicate intelligence to others. The 
church all draws one way & this puzzles the world. They all draw one way & have a reason for it. 
This I glory in. I would not obey if their was not a reason for it. I would leave. Br Snow would 
not draw with you if He Could not give a reason for it. 

I came here to deal out Justice to all Jew & Gentile alike. I came not to watch for iniquity but to 
punish iniquity when it does appear. I have had 200 cases in a year with the same No as you are. I 
hope you will not have a case. You will never be destroyed unless you destroy yourselves. If you 
do not war with yourselves I hope others will not war with you. 

B Young said at our Conference we appointed Lelt & Banks to be travelling Bishops to visit 
other Bishops to call them to an account & see that they are Laithful Bishops & you should feed 
the poor & do your duty untill the spirit of God rest upon you & you hold the keys of the 
Melechezedek priesthood of the Eternal God & the power of it rest upon you forever. Brother 
Banks & Belt were Ordained under the Hands of the Presidency. 

Afternoon Prayer By A Cordon. H C. Kimball says A Cordon is nominated to be a travelling 
[Bishop]. Carried unanimously. He was ordained under the Hands of HCK John & G A Smith. 
Heber C Kimball sealed upon his head all the keys of the priesthood. Said the power of God 
should rest upon his head to preside over other Bishops. Another thing is necessary which will 
Effect the whole world. That is a Reffermation. Chose men who are filled with the Holy Ghost to 
go forth as missionaries to stir up the feelings of the Saints in all these vallies of the Mountains. I 
thank God that we are free. 

Joseph Young D Fulmer & Z Pulsipher was Appointed as missionaries. 

G A Smith Arose & Said I feel perfectly at home here. I want to Speak Concerning Iron Co. I had 
but 20 or 30 with me there. President Young w[anted?] John D Lee to get a Company to go over 
the rim of the Basin & form a settlement in a good place for wine fruit & com. I asked some of 
Amasas Company what they were going to do. They said they were going to plant a vineyard. If 


Page49 




they had done it there they would have done good. 

You should go to Iron Co settle your families then go down in the winter & build a fort. The 
Indians there are well supplyed with Arrows on foot No arr[ows?] or Guns. It is poorer than Iron 
Co. It borders upon the Great Sahara desert. I felt that we are free when I heard that Iron & Coal 
was found in abundance within 15 miles of each other in Iron Co. We have not the Great Blast 
furnises that are in the world but must begin with the Native Element. He also made other 
remarks. 

B Young made remarks concerning Education of our children. Wished parents to pay particular 
attention to [teaching?] the children after which the Conference closed. It was one of the most 
interesting Conferences ever held by this people. 

November 

Nov 9th Sunday [Ao entries 7 October— 8 November ] O Pratt Addressed the Assembly & said He 
did not believe any man capable or qualifyed to speak acceptable to God no matter what his 
abilities were unless he had the spirit of the Holy Ghost. He would not take any office on Earth. 

If the office of the president of the United States was offered Him He would disdain it. As far as 
the honor of it was Concerned He would rather have the office of a teacher in this church as it 
would last forever while the office of president of the U.S would not last but 4 or 8 years. I 
should be glad to live to see the day when their should not be a kingdom or government on Earth 
ownly that ordained of God to govern the world. I do not know as I shall live to see it But I have 
much desired it. For A man to desire to live merely to get honor to himself would not be right. 

But for him to desire to live to honor God & build up his kingdom would be a good desire. 

If I knew I Could be translated to all the glory of the Celestial kingdom in an instant I would 
rather live & suffer with my Brethren through all their troubles untill the coming of Christ. I am 
sorry to see the old vetrans who have helped to lay the foundation of this church lay their bodies 
in the Grave. I believe many will live those who have had it promised unto them if they remain 
faithful untill the coming of Christ & help build up the kingdom. This has been promised to me 
By the patriarch & prophet while receiving my Endowment. The hearts of men were inspired to 
give us these blessings while their hands were upon our heads. This always stimulates us to hold 
on by faith when death is around us & slayes thousands upon our right & left hand. 

It is an Easy matter for God to strengthen a man in his Tabernacle in the midst of Death & 
plagues all around him. He did the Ancients who lived to a great Age. Their Eyes were not dim 
their Ears were quick to hear. But we all have weaknesses & much to contend with. This is that 
we may increase & arive at Great Glory by getting the mastery over the devil & much evil. If we 
were not tempted & tryed & overcome we should not get the glory that we otherwise shall. How 
could God trust a man who would be overcome by temptation? It would take him a long time to 
get Confidence in him again. Jesus was a fair sample subject as He was [subjected] to temptation 
in all things. He overcame. So can we & follow in the steps of our Elder Brother. Better to do this 


Page50 




than to Enjoy the pleasure of sin for a season then die as the fool dieth. 

If a man had power given him & had not discretion given him to use it he would ruin himself. 
This is the reason why this people 20 years old has not greater power. They have not wisdom to 
use it. We have the gifts of the Gospel to Heal the sick to speak with New tongues, to cause the 
Blind to see lame to walk deaf to Hear, & cast out devels & with these gifts some have been so 
lifted up taken honor & glory unto themselves they have fallen. 

I thank God for sparing his gifts any further than they prove beneficial to us. If God Gave us all 
things at once it would kill us but if we were proven in all things, then we could Endure all 
things. (Things are frequently given of the Lord that men cannot all Endure. They are more than 
they have wisdom to manage. When this is the case they cannot Advance untill they master what 
has been given. Let this be remembered & not ask for more than what we can manage for if we 
ask the Lord for a Revelation & He gives us a New commandment we are under the greater 
responsibility for we have to keep all the Commandments of God. If Commandments are given 
us & we dont obey then our light becomes darkness. Then how great is that darkness. It would be 
better for him not to have the light at all. 

If the Lord had given all men all they have Asked for they would many of them been out of the 
Church now. I have herd many say I have Asked the Lord to reveal certain principles unto me & 
He did not do it. But this is because it was not wisdom to give it unto you. But if you are faithful 
the day will come when God will give any man what He asks for if He asks for it in 
righteousness. 

I believe the Lord loves this people & is preparing us to recieve all good things. The day will 
come when the Lamanites will build a city called the New Jerrusalem. They not we [will] build 
it. We with all the Gentiles who repent will help build it. The powers of Heaven will be revealed 
& Jesus be in our midst And the power of Heaven be revealed By Adam & all men will know it 
in the kingdom of God. And all secrets & key words of the priesthood & all things will be 
revealed. I hope you will harken to Council & do all things which god requires of us in the name 
of Jesus Christ Amen. 

Sunday 12 [October?] S M Blair spoke to the people & gave a good exhortation. Brother Simeon 
Carter followed the same day. Spoke of the deeds of the prophet. He knew the Twelve had to 
lead. Had no desire to follow any Body els. He was followed By Brother Major. 

Sunday 20th Oct [.sfc] Elder O Pratt spoke upon the death of Sister Hendricks. He was thankful 
we as a people were settelled in these vallies of the Mountains whare it was Healthy. We have 
here to fore suffered much by sickness in other places but we cannot get entirely away from 
sickness & death let us go whare we will in this life for all men must taste of death. Even those 
who were translated had to have a chage to Immortality. Their may be some pain attending that 
even if it was ownly for an instant. Their must be some space between death & the resurrection. 
Sin is the cause of this evil even death. Without sin men would have been Immortal. 


Page5 1 




If I should hear of a God who had made man to have pain & sorrow without any Agency or sin I 
could not have any confidence in him, & the Heavens could not. It may be said it is necessary to 
have sorrow & misery in order to Enjoy good. The Lord when He made the world knew how to 
fix things so that Man should bring upon himself death evil & Sorrow if He [had ag?][ency]. He 
planted the tree of knowledge of good Evil in the midst of the garden. Little children did not 
commit sin but their parents did. It was not our own sins that Brought death but the sin of our 
first parents. Death being introduced into the world we all partake of it. 

If we had not the great plan of Salvation Revealed we should be without law. If it was not for 
Revelation we should not know that we had an Immortal Spirit within us. We should take care of 
the spirit as well as our Bodies. The spirit needs taking care of as well as the Body. 

The spirit is a Being that possesses certain capacities that are as Eternal as God himself that were 
never given to it. I do not Believe that any matters that ever saw the time that it could not love 
hate fear &c can ever do it again. But I believe it is Eternal. The formation may not be Eternal 
but the substance of which it is composed is Eternal. The capacities may be enlarged but its 
capacity always exhisted. Their may be a time when our spirits had a Begining of fonnation but 
the capacity always exhisted. 

The Infant at first appeared as a Blank page but that spirit before it came here was full of 
knowledge as was the case with the Babe of Bethlehem Jesus Christ. He had wisdom to construct 
worlds before He Came Here but had now descended below all things. Came from His Fathers 
throne but his knowledge power & wisdom was laid aside & nothing but the bare capacity was 
left. Can any man remember the first month of his life in the flesh? No. Neither can you 
remember the time of your Exhistance or doings before you came Here. This is to prove men if 
they will prove faithful while this knowledge is taken from them in infancy childhood & 
manhood life & Death. If one man Jesus Christ can ascend & overcome all things so can another. 

If we find any thing that is good lovely virtueous good exhalted then let us lay hold of it untill we 
are exhalted. Then the Spirit will a[do?]rn the body & do away with many of the Evils of the fall. 
Their is sumthing in the countenance of a man who takes care of his spirit that is glorious & 
good. 

The Lord made the spirit of man according to the plan devised in his wisdom but this was made 
of Eternal Substance of many beings composed in one [in?] Ourselves Brought together into one 
& Gems given to our spirits. Then let us take care of our spirits. 

Many thing may be said about the object of our Bodies & spirits. They are destined to Arise in 
glory Exhaltation And Eternal life. Then let us take care of our Bodies & spirits. We have our 
minds filled with the cares of life & yet when we die we have to leave all our temporal Affairs. It 
seems to be the object of God that we should earn our Bread by the sweat of the Brow. If this was 
not the case we might be Idle which would produce more evil than it would to labour. If we 
improve our [time?] we shall get glory that we should not get if we were Idle for when we die the 


Page52 




knowledge we have gained will be of Benefit to us. We cannot get a fulness of Glory while our 
spirit & Body is separated. We may think reflect & know right from wrong but we cannot act as 
in the Body. We shall look for the Resurrection of the Body with much interest & great anxiety. 
If it was not for the resurrection of the Body we should be subject to the devil & death temporal 
& spiritual. Those who kept the Celestial law will be redeemed from all sin & death restored to 
God and all Blessings their is for man. Such will have Joy in paradice. Joseph says if we keep the 
law we shall have a celestial paradice & our spirits return & hunt up our bodies & enter it again 
with a fulness of celestial spirit. 

How will the Resurrection be brought to pass & when will be the different times of the 
resurrection? The good will arise before those who die after the Resurrection of Christ. The good 
did arise at the Resurrection of Christ. We find mummies in the catacombs of Egypt who died 
long before christ arose who remain yet some saints in Asia & America did arise & appear unto 
many. 

I do not believe the resurrection will take place by being bom again as the doctrin of some is. I 
would not believe it for the world unless President Young was to say the Lord had Revealed it to 
him. I Believe the Saints will arise out of their graves as Ezekiel said they would. 

The Resurrection will take place Before the son of Man Comes as the Scriptures declair. Before 
He comes their shall be a great sign appear in Heaven. All the Nations of the Earth shall see it 
together. An Angel shall sound his trump that all Nations will Hear it saying that Babylon will be 
burned. Then after half an hour of silence the veil of the covering will be taken off. The face of 
Heaven will be Revealed & the face of the Lord will be unveiled and the graves of the Saints will 
be open & the Saints on the Earth will be caught up to meet the Lord. This is the first 
Resurrection. The Zion of Enoch will also Appear & dwell on the Earth. The Saints will then 
Receive their Everlasting inheritances. 

Joseph got a promise from the Lord that He should have a right to an inheritance in the Nauvoo 
House forever. If the Saints do not get their possessions by covenant as Abram did Canaan or 
Joseph Nauvoo their will be Judges Appointed to give evry man his inheritances for an 
Everlasting inheritance. 

Then comes the time when Joseph and all will receive their keys & turn them to the saints in this 
dispensation & reveal the mysteries of Eternity to the Saints who have their celestial Bodies. 

They will be qualifyed to receive a fulness of celestial glory & spirit & will Receive all they can 
Endure. But they will grow to all Eternity in knowledge & power. 

Will the Saints be confined to this Earth? No they will be caught up & not die & lie in the dust. 
Jesus will have a Throne in Jerrusalem & the Saints will have thrones on the Earth but they will 
go to other worlds or in the Heavens & all will be free. Adam will give instructions Concerning 
the garden of Eden. We will go on foreign missions to visit other worlds. We shall also 
remember our acts in this life & inasmuch as they have been good it will be a consolation to 
reflect upon them. 


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/I Baptized Sister Foss & family & my own family & confirmed them 9 in all. Rhoda Foss was 
Married on the eve of Nov 30th 1851./ 

[.Vo daily entries appear for the remainder of 1851.] 

President Youngs Medical lecture deliverd Before A board of Health at Great Salt Lake City Dec 
1851: 

President Young arose & said I wish to impart intelligence to the people. My first proposition is 
the science of Medicine. The study & practice of medicine as a science if it may be called a 
science is the most imperfect of any science in existance as is practiced By the doctors of the 
present day. The doctors & priests of the day send more to death & Hell then any whare Els. 
About One in a million may get some glory. A Bigger set of cursed Scoundrels never graced the 
Earth than that class. Surgery is a different class & is vary necessary in many instances & that 
system can be learned. But to learn the system of man they cannot No more learn that than they 
can learn the Heavens. A worst set of Ignoramuses do not walk the Earth. They do not know how 
to turn <[-]> wind in a mans body when it gets cross ways. If you cut their infernal throats the 
people will live. 

I know what this society is here for. It is to impart what knowledge they have to others. But I 
have seen the folly of the doctors even at my own doors. Take them as a whole they are the most 
damnable set on the Earth. Their practices are infamous & their medicines produce death; If the 
people want to Eat Calomel let them do it & be damned. But dont feed it to any of my family. If 
my doctor does & I know it I would kill him as quick as I would for feeding Arsnic. I do not 
employ such doctors to visit me. I dont Employ any doctors to visit me. 

The practice of Doctors in visiting women in childbirth is damnable. Women should be let alone 
& let Nature have its [perfe?]ct work. Let a woman keep her child if she can 2 or 3 years but she 
cannot do it. When the time has come Nature will deliver her of her child without a Doctor. Dont 
fret. Let evry thing take its proper course & sickness would depart away. 

The Doctors in New Haven met by mutual agreement to see how far they could frighten a man. 
Did actually frighten him to death A robust Harty man. 

Many things should be said to this people. Their has not been a Doctor Baptized into this Church 
that has the Holy Ghost but what will acknowledge they are a fool. Their is not a Physician in the 
Church or in the world that is taught from on high By Revelation but what will acknowledge this 
to be true doctrin. If their is a doctor who can see & know man from Head to foot & know how to 
cure his deseases by Revelation such are the ownly true & safe Doctors on Earth. All others are 
fools. I see men die in the Hands of the doctors. The medicines kill them. Why dont they tell 
what ales the patient or Acknowledges they dont know? The foolery their is among this class is 
disgraceful & makes me mad & the day will come when you will not wonder at my feelings. 

You are natural persons & God has made you natural. If you are with child that child will come 


Page54 




forth by nature without a Dr. The Earth is just so. Will bring forth of itself seed after its kind. If a 
person is sick & have not faith to be healed give them herbs the product of the Earth & it will 
cure you until it is time to die. 

When a cat is sick she will eat Catnip without a doctor & she gets well. Nature promps her to it. 
If a dog is bit with a Rattlesnake He will dig a hole in the Earth & lie in the ground untill the 
poison is gone out. So Nature will teach us as well as the cat & dog. When a toad is bit by a 
spider [it] will go & Eat plantain if He can get it. If a child is to die in being bom let it die but 
dont Employ a Dr to kill it. 

How will you be instructed? I will tell you what to do if you are taken sick dont be frightened but 
be calm. If you get a cold let Nature be [-]. Disease will go up & down through the system to find 
a place to be located. It is as much our duty to know how to cure our system as to feed our Body. 
The Doctors would say you are deseased & dont know it. Who made the Doctors? The Devil. 

The Lord did not make the Doctors of the present day. Such a thing as a man midwife was not 
known untill about 1500. Why did not the women all die before this time? Look at the Indians. 
For 100 years millions of children have been bom in the wilderness of male & female & they live 
& not die without a doctor [-] . 

You may ask what shall we do? I will tell you. I will give you a lessen & I want you to remark it. 
When you go to visit a woman in traval let her alone untill her full time has come. Remember it. 
Let the mother alone. Let your system be natural. Teach them also to exercise all that they can 
that when they come to be deliverd it will be better for them. 

A doctor if He had good sens would not wish to visit women in child birth. And if a woman had 
good sense she would not wish a man to doctor them on such an occasion. 

I want you to teach your children the principle of truth. I talk as I do for the people will not sens 
any thing unless they are half knocked down or thunder rolls in their Ears. Soft words will not do. 
I want you to hear & understand. 

Their has been some difficulty in this Board of Health. If I had Been with you you would not 
have had any difficulty. It has been through a misunderstanding. If you understood principle you 
would not quarrel. You may spread Calomel on your Bread & Butter & eat it if you wish but it is 
deadly poison as Arsenic but not as quick. It is not good. You may ask if it was ever good in any 
case? There may be cases whare it might be a benefit but it would [want?] a Revelation to tell 
wh[are/en?] it was. Their is not poison in lobelia. I will give $5,000 dollars for the 16 part of an 
oz of poison that can be extracted out of all the lobelia in this valley. 

It is not probable that any two persons are organized just alike in all respects. Then who is a 
Physician? Now unless He be taught of God & is a prophet or Revelator He cannot understand 
the Human System know desease & what will cure it. I dont care how a man acts if He intends to 
act right & when He act wrong are willing to be righted. We will take the Best physician of the 
day that lives the closest to the Lord. I dont care how will He is He will be brought down as a 


Page55 




fool for He will be made to let God be honored. 


I have been on a Journey in the dust. I have got dust on my Brain. That is what ales me. It will 
wash off. Could a doctor tell what ales me? No. Can a doctor tell what ales a sick man by feeling 
of his pulse? No more than He could by feeling of a dogs tail. Their is no Physician except He is 
taught of God. 

You should learn how to doctor yourselves. You should study your own system. Any people who 
must trust to a doctor at all times will die. But trust in God & you will live longer. What a 
diferent time it would be if all trusted in God rather than in the doctors for 9 out of 10 die under 
the doctors care who would live if they trusted in God alone. Dont get freightened & you will do 
well enough. It is Just as reasonable to send for a doctor to have a calf, colt or pig brought forth 
as it was for a child. 

After you receive your reserrected Bodies you will bring forth spirits to all Eternity who will go 
to some world & take a tabernacle or body the same as we have. You dont want a doctor any 
more here than there. If the members of this society are true either male or female they will inpart 
all useful knowledge they have to others. If they are not willing to do this they are corrupt. If one 
man knows more than another let him tell his knowledge & if a man knows more than all the rest 
let him be a Father unto the people & teach them & not act like a Boy. If I hold myself Equal 
[for?] Equal. If I am Superior let me manifest it by doing a Better deed & being superior myself. 

It is the man that rejects light & knowledge who shows him that God Condemns & I condemn 
him. 

Some say we have spiritual wives but I think God has made us all natural & I think we should be 
Natural. 


We received several lectures from Judge Zerubabel Snow concerning law our Legislative 
Enactments & various other subjects. He Commenced with the Constitution of the United States. 
Said the several states sent delegates & fonned a general Convention & there after deliberating 
upon the situation they agreed to form a Constitution & to Cede up a portion of their state rights 
for the purpose of forming a general Government Constitution & Congress of the United States. 
And all the power that was not ceded up still remains with the people. And it was his opinion that 
we as a people had a right to make such laws as suited our own Convenience Notions & 
circumstances, as long as it did not Conflict with the constitution of the United [States] of the [ 

]. Their were rights belonging to all civilized men which no power had a lawful right to take from 
them. And He advised us to make such laws as we wished without any regard to the Common 
law of England or the laws which any of the states had adopted as long as we did not interfere 
with any of the Constitution of the United States. He dwelt lengthy upon the Criminal Code 
which we should Adopt that Criminal law was Considerd more for the suppression of crime than 
for the punishment of the guilty. 


Page56 




/I ordained 8 High priest & 7 members of the quorum of seventies at different Councils at the 
Council House not before recorded./ 

{========================= 

I Travled with the Presidency and others to Parowan Iron County and explored the Country from 
Great Salt Lake there. 


Whole distance travled 
I attended public Meetings 
I Preached 
I Baptized 
I Confirmed 

I Ordained High Council 
I Ordained High Priest 
I Ordained to the Seventies 
I Blessed Children 
I administered to sick persons 
I Married 

I Met with the Regency 
I spent with the Legislature of Utah 


764 Miles 
28 Meetings 
14 Discourses 
9 Persons 

9 Persons 

12 High Council 

10 High Priest 
8 Seventies 

8 Children 
12 Sick 
2 Persons 
8 times 
12 days 


I Met with the perpetual Emigrating Co 4 times 
I met with the Presidency & Twelve 25 Councils 
I wrote 10 Letters 

I Received 8 Letters 

I was Appointed Chaplain of the Nauvoo Legion. 


} 


{ 


Wilford Woodruffs Journal for 1852 

* 


} 


January 

Eighteen hundred & fifty two has commenced. Each year is big with Events to Both Zion & 
Babylon to the kingdom of God & the kingdom of the world. What this year will bring to pass 
time alone can determin But great deeds & scenes are crouding to the Birth. We may look for 
great Revolutions to commence in the old world for confusion & disunion in the States, & for 


Page57 




some opposition against the Saints to be manifest. But the Lord will govern the helm of the 
States & Nations for the final good of the world & to his honor & glory & for the benefit of the 
Saints. 

Jan 1st 1852 Note(l) I spent the day as a day of Thanksgiving according to the proclamation of 
the Govornor. 

Jan 5th Monday The legislature of the Territory of Utah met according to the appointment of the 
Govornor. I met with them. 

6th House met & received the Govornor Message. 

7th 8 91 spent the time in the Legislature. Attended to the B[usiness?] of the same. 

101 spent the time in the Legislature. 

1 1 Spent the time in meeting. 

12, 13, 14, 15, 16 & 17 I spent the week in the Legislature. [No 18, 25 January or 1 February 
entries.] 

19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24 I spent this week in the Legislature. 

26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 3 1 I spent this week in the Legislature. 

Feb 2, 3, 4, 5 I spent this week in the Legislature. The Legislature was Adjourned on the 5th to 
Meet on Monday the 16. 

f I wrote 4 letters to Azmon Woodruff D. Webster I. F. Carter & J. M. Bernhisel. 

6 & 7 I spent the time at home. 

Sunday 8th I attended meeting at the Council House. President Young Preached. His sennon is 
recorded on another page. 

9th 10, 11 & 121 spent the time at home. Was quite unwell a part of the time. 

13 ? 21 1 Made A party for the Presidency & Twelve. They Arived at about 3 oclok took a rich 
supper & enjoyed themselves in the dance untill about 12 oclok. 

14 & 15 1 was quite sick with teeth Ake & ague in the face. 

16th Monday * I Made a party this evening for the company that came to the valley with me Also 
some of my Neighbors. I had between 40 & 50 persons present. After taking supper they danced 
untill they were satisfyed then all returned home apparently satisfyed with their party. I was quite 
sick. 

17 I took a Course of Medicine to day which done me good. 


Page58 




18 I was quite weak & confined to my house. 

19 I was better to day but still feeble. 

20th I spent the day in writing. I visited the ward school exhibition during the evening. 

21st I met with the Legislature this morning but it adjourned till Monday morning. 

22d Sunday I spent the day at home writing in my Journal. I met in the evening with the 12 & 
Presidency for prayer. 

I have not given the procedings of the Legislature in this Journal as it is to lengthy for insertion. 

The following is the population of the valley according to the census Bills: Great Salt Lake Co 
6,155 Davis County 1,128 Utah Co 2,005 Tooele Co 152 Sanpete Co 365 Green River Precinct 
46 Iron Co 360 webber Co 1,143. Total of the whole population 1 1,354. 

The following Judges were appointed by the Legislature: Isaac Clark for Webber Co. Joseph 
Holebrook for Davis County Elias Smith Salt Lake Co Alfred Lee Tooele Co George Bradley 
U[..] Co George Pecock in Sanpete Co Anson Call in Millard Co Chapman Duncan Iron Co 
Preston Thomas of Utah County. 

23 I met with the legislature in the morning. They adj[ourned] till to morrow at 10 oclok. I spent 
the time in Counsel. I ordained two Elders. 

24th Both Houses met in Joint session. I spent the day. 

25 26, 27 & 28 I spent this time in the legislature. 

Sunday 29 ^ I wrote 3 letters to Dan Jones I F Carter & E T Benson. I received 1 letter from Dan 
Jones. } I also wrote a letter in Company with G A Smith to Hon J. M. Bernhisel. 

I met in the Evening with the Counsel for prayer. Herd a letter read to J M Bernhisel conseming 
our Governmental matters. It was a Bold independent spirited thing such as is worthy of the 
master spirits of the age. The government officers in many respects seem disposed to try to 
destroy us the same as the state officers have tried to do. 

February 

Jan 1st 1852 Govornor B. Young Had made a proclamation of thanksgiving for the inhabitants of 
the Territory of Utah to set apart the 1st day of Jan for the purpose of thanksgiving & prayer. The 
following is a portion of the proclamation: 

"And I recommend to all good citizens of Utah that they abstain from evry thing that is calculated 
to mar or grieve the spirit of their Heavenly Father on that day. That they rise Early in the 
morning of the first day of the New Year and wash their bodies with pure water. That all men 


Page59 




attend to their flocks & herds with carefulness & see that no creature in their care is Hungry 
thirsty or Cold while the women are preparing the best of food for their Housholds & their 
Children [are] ready to receive it in Cleanliness & with cheerfulness. Then let the Head of Each 
family with his family bow down upon his knees before the God of Israel and acknowledge all 
his sins & the sins of his household call upon the Father in the name of Jesus for evry blessing 
that He desires for himself his kindred the Israel of God the univers of man praying with full 
purpose & heart & united faith that the union of the United States may be preserved inviolate 
against all the devises of wicked men untill truth shall reign triumphant & the glory of Jehovah 
shall fill the whole Earth. Then in the name of Jesus ask the Father to Bless your food and when 
you have filled the plates of your Houshold partake with them with rejoiceing & thanksgiving & 
if you feel to make merry in your hearts sing a song of thanksgiving and lift up your hearts 
continually in praise & acknowledgement of the unbounded mercies you are momentarily 
receiving. [ ] 

Sunday Jan 4th 1852 President Young addressed the assembly & took for his subject sin & the 
forgiveness of sin. I speak upon this subject because we are in the midst of it. It has been among 
all classes. It has been in our houses in our families & in our hearts and although it has been a 
constant Companion their is but few that understand the Nature of sin. Many have made 
themselves miserable thinking they had sined against the Holy Ghost. Others that they had sined 
a great sin. 

But what have the Revelations of the Lord said upon these subjects? We learn that Jesus Christ 
came & took a Body & redeemed the world. But Lucipher rebelled was cast down without any 
Body and He has sought to vex & destroy the children of men. He seeks diligently to drive all 
from the right path esspecially if a Saint tries to follow the track & get whare Jesus was. Then the 
devil would try hard to over throw them. Many have thought they have committed much sin 
when they have not understood the nature & work of sin. We must understand many principles & 
arive at much knowledge before we can fully understand the Nature of Sin. 

The Veil of Darkness is over the Earth so that the inhabitants of the Earth are so overwhelmed in 
tradition & darkness they do not know light from darkness truth from Error wright from wrong or 
the difference between the dictation of the Holy Spirit or that conscience which has been framed 
for them by the dictation of their mothers & priests. Many think far more of the traditions of their 
youth than of any principle that God could reveal from Heaven unto them. Their Mother must not 
do any thing on Sunday. To dam a Stocking would be a great sin. 

Sin is one thing & tradition is another. The word of God Revealed will tell what sin is while 
tradition will not. The Education of the world is good as far as they have any truth found in any 
science which they possess. But they do not understand truth as connected with the plan of 
Salvation. 

I want the Saints Here to understand that they cannot sin against God, & Jesus Christ & the 
priesthood, against his family & the Saints then come & ask forgiveness of the church then pass 


Page60 




on Smoothly & /thinking we will/ go to Heaven. This is to cheap a way to get to Heaven. I want 
this subject riveted on your heart. If it is not you will not remember it. You must remember your 
covenants & the Law of the Lord that is given to us. 

It is written that sin is a transgression of the Law. Whare is it? In the Book[s?] that is given us in 
the main. Yet this does not go into all the meanderings of life. Whare do you find a law that you 
shall not drive a team across your Neighbors lot or go to his Hay stack or suffer your families to 
take liberties that you are not willing should be done to you? Yet you know it to be wrong. But 
do unto others as you wish others to do unto you is the Law & the prophets. 

Some men who have been ordained unto the priesthood & are vary high in Authority will take 
the Name of God in vain & Swear by this & that. Does such persons suppose that the Church can 
forgive that sin? If you do your hope is vain. They can never forgive that sin. No man can do it. 
None But God alone & it never will be forgiven untill He does it. The time will come that if a 
man will take the name of God in vain He will be hewn down without Judgment or trial. Hear it 
O ye Elders for it is time. Let this people sanctify their Hearts & then take the Name of God in 
vain & they will not be forgiven. 

The time will also come when if the parents are Sanctifyed before the Lord & their children rise 
up in disobedience against them they will be hewn down. If you sin against God & take the name 
of God in vain if you get forgiveness it will have to be forgiveness?] by Him & not from man. 
Some think if they are alone & sware or sin nobody will know it. But they will find themselves 
mistaken. Still if a man has to sware let him be alone. If a man damns himself let him be alone 
that others may not be polluted by his sin. If you take the name of God in vain I will not forgive it 
for I cannot. If the Lord will forgive you I will forgive you for roaring my feelings by speaking it 
in my Ears. 

The more you see the veil parted & the more you learn the more you will see Gods ways are not 
as our ways. This people are passing through a great school of Experience. I remember while in 
kirtland if any of the Brethren felt their rights infringed upon in any wise or abused [they] would 
retaliate & be ready to quarrel about it & be ready to get up a law suit for /a debt of 7 three dollars. 

But the minds of the Saints have become more noble. Now if a man is abused who understands 
principle He is above quarreling about it and He feels to say it is nothing to me. I am not to suffer 
by it. But you that have Abused me has the penalty to pay. But if the devil can ownly make you 
think that you are abused or ill treated And you begin to fret about it and you give the devil 
power over you & in the End it is as bad as though you had done wrong yourself. Now if a man 
sins against you untill seventy times seven & He repents & with an humble heart Asks 
forgiveness you should forgive him for this is the law & the prophets . He must ask forgiveness & 
be humble or He cannot be forgiven. 

As much has been said & many fears entertained by many concerning the sin against the Holy 
Ghost. I will speak further Concerning that subject. To sin against the Holy Ghost is a Sin against 
God the Father the Son & the Holy Ghost that Bears record of them. A man cannot sin against 


Page61 




the Holy Ghost untill the Holy Ghost has Revealed unto him the Father & Son & a knowledge of 
Eternal things in a great degree. When He has a knowledge of these things with his Eyes open He 
rebels against God & defys his power. He sins against all three. 

If a man does sin against the Holy Ghost the people Have nothing to do with it for they cannot 
forgive that sin & none but God can do it & probably He will not in this world nor the world to 
come for they become sons of perdition & probably will never repent of [their sin] or Have a 
disposition to. If you Blaspheme the Name of God dont ask this people to forgive you for they 
cannot do it. You may ask them to pray God to forgive you. If God does forgive the Sin then you 
can go down into the waters of Baptism. When you get knowledge you will be ashamed to sin. 

Now I want to Bring this subject Home. What are the acts of the people? Do they not sin & 
trespass against their Brethren Parents against their children & children against their parents the 
Husband against the wife & wife against the Husband? This is with us & this we can reach & 
manage & tell what ought to be done. You ought to [cease?] from taking the liberty of any person 
but do unto all as you would wish them to do unto you. Infringe upon the rights of no one. 

Borrow no tool but what you will return according to promise. Take no wood nor any thing Els 
but what belongs to you and if you find any thing that is not your own do not Hide it away but 
report it that the owner may be found. 

If I had some stones Here in my hand I could cast them & hit two or three in this congregation in 
the Head who are guilty of these acts. You may say why dont you tell who they are? Why you 
poor Devil are you not going to repent of it by & by? If not when the day of clensing & 
sanctifying of Israels comes you will have to be sacraficed & your Blood spilt upon the ground. 
For the day will come when iniquity must scease in Zion And the Profane man who takes the 
Name of God in vain will be slain. 

In the days of Ancient Israel Justice was dealt out in a manner that showed they understood 
principle & Revered the Commands of God. It was a mercy to many to have Justice & Judgment 
executed upon them on the Earth even to be slain & have their Blood poured out upon the Earth 
that it might be tolerable for them. God made a Covenant with Abraham & his seed that He 
would save them. When they Commit Sin He slew them that He might save them by their 
spilling their Blood as an offering. Had they have lived in sin they might have sinned so as not to 
have Been forgiven or saved. It was a mercy to slay them. 

Now Brethren if you sin against God go to God to get forgiveness if that sin is not unto death. 
Their is a sin unto death which we were told we need not pray for. If you sin against your Brother 
go to him to get forgivness. Ask forgiveness at the Hands of the inocent. If you sin against your 
family your parents your Husband your wife your children seek forgiveness at their hands. But 
what is done in secret should be forgiven in secret & go no father that sins may be hid. But if sins 
are committed openly they should ask forgiveness & be forgiven openly. These are true 
principles & let them be remembered forever. 

Govornor B Youngs address Before the legislative assembly of the Territory of Utah upon 


Page62 




slavery: 

He remarked that the whole world were slaves. Eve partook of the forbidden fruit & also Adam 
& it brought slavery upon all their posterity in some way or other & this will continue untill we 
become righteous enough to drive the devil & evil from the Earth. 

Adam had two sons Kane & Abel. Cain was more given to evil than Abel. Adam was called to 
offer sacrifice also his sons. The sacrifice of Abel was more acceptable than Canes & Cane took 
it into his heart to put Abel out of the way so he killed Abel. 

The Lord said I will not kill Cane But I will put a mark upon him and it is seen in the [face?] of 
every Negro on the Earth And it is the decree of God that that mark shall remain upon the seed of 
Cane & the Curse untill all the seed of Abel should be re[deem?]ed and Cane will not receive the 
priesthood untill or salvation untill all the seed of Abel are Redeemed. Any man having one drop 
of the seed of Cane in him Cannot hold the priesthood & if no other Prophet ever spake it Before 
1 will say it now in the name of Jesus Christ. 1 know it is true & they know it. The Negro cannot 
hold one particle of Government But the day will Come when all the seed of Cane will be 
Redeemed & have all the Blessings we have now & a great deal more. But the seed of Abel will 
be ahead of the seed of Cane to all Eternity. 

Let me consent to day to mingle my seed with the seed of Cane, ft would Bring the same curse 
upon me And it would upon any man. And if any man mingles his seed with the seed of Cane the 
ownly way he Could get rid of it or have salvation would be to Come forward & have his head 
Cut off & spill his Blood upon the ground, ft would also take the life of his Children. 

ft is said if a man kills another that he takes that that He cannot give. If a mans head is cut off his 
life is not destroyed or his spirit that lives. His tabernacle is destroyed But 1 can make as good 
tabernacles as 1 can destroy. If you do not believe it look at my Children. Much blood was shed 
in ancient days both of man & Beast. The firstlings & best of the flock was sacrafized on the 
Altar & in some instances many men & almost whole Nations were sacraficed or put to death 
because of their sins & wickedness. This was the ownly way they could be saved at all. If Jesus 
Christ had not had his Blood shed the Blood that He received from his Mother Mary the world 
would not have been saved. 

Their is not one of the seed of old Cane that is permitted to rule & reign over the seed of Abel 
And you nor 1 cannot Help it. 

Those that do bear rule should do it in righteousness. I am opposed to the present system of 
slavery. The Negro Should serve the seed of Abram but it should be done right. Dont abuse the 
Negro & treat him Cruel. 

ft has been argued here that many of the Jews were Black. Whenever the seed of Judah mingled 
with the seed of Cane they lost their priesthood & all Blessings. 

As an Ensample let the Presidency, Twelve Seventies High Priest Bishops & all the Authorities 


Page63 




say now we will all go & mingle with the seed of Cane and they may have all the privileges they 
want. We lift our hands to heaven in support of this. That moment we loose the priesthood & all 
Blessings & we would not be redeemed untill Cane was. I will never admit of it for a moment. 

Some may think I dont know as much as they do But I know that I know more than they do. The 
Lord will watch us all the time. The Devil would like to rule part of the time But I am determin 
He shall not rule at all and Negros shall not rule us. I will not admit of the Devil ruling at all. I 
will not Consent for the seed of Cane to vote for me or my Brethren. If you want to know why we 
did not speak of it in the Constitution it was because it was none of their Business. Any man is a 
Citizens Black white or red and if the Jews Come here with a part of the Canaanite Blood in 
them they are Citizens & shall have their rights but not to rule for me or my Brother. Those 
persons from the Islands & foreign Countries know nothing about Governing the people. The 
Canaanite cannot have wisdom to do things as the white man has. We must guard against all 
Evil. I am not going to let this people damn themselves as long as I can help it. 

Sunday Feb 8 President Young Addressed the assembly and said I trust in the Lord for light as I 
have heretofore done. When the minds of men are open to understand they will see things as they 
are. We are subject to all the evils which are in the world. I have thought this world as fallen as 
any of the Creation of God. When the Lord created the Earth or any world if they have an 
Exaltation they will have to experience all that we Experience. I see no reason why they Should 
not be tempted as we are tempted. 

If we are candidates to exhaltation & glory & that we [-] of get that exaltation & glory in no other 
way then we should be reconciled to it & be satisfyed to let the Lord do with us as He pleases. Is 
their any Evil upon any [..] person or affliction upon any Nation or kingdom that God does not 
permit? Their is not. We should then be faithful to God in all things to be his secret Counsellor if 
necessary. Why should we complain or find fault with God about any thing? We should not. So 
the Example of the Nations of the Earth. They complain about evry thing and against all his 
providences. 

Their is no proceding of ours or act or [ ] at variance but what He knows all about. If it would 

be any Satisfaction to you I would say that God has passed through all the trials & experience 
that we have. Jesus Christ has passed through all the trials & experience the same as we have. It 
would not be prudent for me to say that the Father has not the same experience that his Son had. 
He had quite as much as his Son had. Let the Saints look about themselves & see if they have as 
great things as they expected when they first received the gospel & the Holy Ghost upon their 
minds. They saw that Zion was to [be] built up & Israel gatherd the power of God & the Holy 
Ghost to be poured out upon us. If we Could get a place by ourselves how faithful we would live 
& thank God. Do you have the same things you look for? Well I dont know you say this shows 
that somebody has let down their watch & influenced others & they have not lived up to their 
privileges. When we first received the gospel we were humble but since the tempter has Come & 
we are tempted with many things But this is right. The Lord pennits it. We could not get glory 
without it. 


Page64 




Let me ask if any one is here who went to Jackson County in 1831. The feeling was If I Could get 
with the Saints all my sorrow & trouble would be at an End. So it is with the Saints in England. 
Before we preached the gathering to them the lord Revealed to them that they would be gathered. 
We told them not to reveal it untill the time came. Do you have any thing now that you looked 
for in the Begining? If not sumthing is the matter. You dont do right. You dont settle this 
difficulty or that. 

But what is the matter? You are wrong yourself. What benders you from praying all day & 
fasting and prayer? You have Enough to Eat. But the great difficulty is when they moved to Zion 
they brought themselves with them. You had so many devels in you that they trouble you. When 
the devel & wicked men have afflicted & persecuted us as far as is for our good then the Lord 
says stop & go no further. They are held up. But if we take evry thing patiently all our afflictions 
will work together for our good. 

But do you at the present time have any thing to mar your peace except what you bring upon 
yourselves? You have privileges here but do the people prize their privileges? Why do the people 
go to the kanyons after wood on Sunday? Why have they gone to day? Why dont I do it? Why do 
I not visit my fann or the Bath House on Sunday? Because it is not right & sets a Bad example. I 
cannot do these things on the Sabbath. Some will take poles of from his Neighbors farm take a 
Chain or an ox without liberty. This is wrong. 

Their is nothing on Earth to mar our peace but our own [acts?]. But the great difficulty is they 
cannot get away from themselves. They think perhaps if they go to the gold digings they can get 
away from themselves but they cannot. When persecution & trials come they search the good 
seed and it dries up. 

How are you going to get Zion? Nothing Henders our having Zion But ourselves. We have all the 
privileges of Angels to worship God & get all Blessings we need. We mean to war with all 
Devils temptations & trials untill we overcome. I will fight untill I overcome. If I fall in the grave 
their is others who will take my place. Their are many who will fight & if it needs be we will take 
the sword. I hope all who want good principles will have the privilege of receiveing them. To day 
is a day of tithing & Sacrafice. To morrow cometh the Burning. 

I would say that you cannot be perfect without me nor I without you. The providences of God has 
so interwoven & identifyed the interest of the Children of Adam together that they cannot be 
perfect without each other. 

Do you enjoy yourselves & have peace? I have peace & no man can take it from me. If you do 
not have peace it is because you drive st[akes &?] & the Lord will not let you do it. But let the 
will of God be done. If you dont Enjoy Zion it is Because you dont say let the will of God be 
done. Their is nothing to take your Zion away but yourselves. We are to be tryed & tempted in 
evry way in order to prove ourselves the friend of God in all things & God will Bless you. 


Page65 




My prayer is that God will bless this people & that they may be faithful and a friend to God. I 
told the Legislature that I would be proud to have the world know that I told the assembly to fast 
& pray untill they get the spirit of God to do their duty. I would like to see the Judges upon the 
Bench to ask God to Bless them And all the Jury & witnesses to assist them in all their testimony 
& decissions. 


March 


Monday March 1st 1852 This is again my birth day. I am 45 years of age this day. The Lord hath 
preserved me thus far in life. I pray that He may still preserve me and lengthen out my days to 
behold the work of the Lord on the Earth & to assist in Carrying on that work. I spent the day 
with the Legislature. 

2 & 3 I spent the time with the Legislature. It was A vary busy time with us As we were about to 
Close the members of the Joint session Concluded to have a day of recreation feasting & 
rejoiceing on the morrow. 

4th Thursday The Govornor President of the Council * Speaker of the house with All the 
members of Both Branches of the Legislature Assembled with their ladies At the Council House 
& Legislative Hall & partook of an excellent fest And had an excellent social party. <We all went 
[-] [them?] in the [-].> The Govomer gave an interesting Address in the evening which closed 
with a shout of Hosannah. All returned home satisfied with the procedings of the day. 

5th Both Houses met in Joint Session this mo[rning?] And spent a Busy day. 

6th Saturday Both Houses met in Joint Session And Closed up all the business of the session And 
Adjourned untill next December. The Govornor Blessed the Assembly And the President [of?] 
the [-] end & speaker of the House returned thanks to the m[aster?]. The Assembly returned A 
vote of thanks to the Govorner And all returned [to] their homes. I spent the evening in school 
learning Fonography. 

7th Sunday I preached in the school House in the 13th ward. Visited Brother Hardy in the 
Afternoon for Charles Hardy was fast sinking with the Consumption. He will not live long. At [-] 
in the evening I met with the Presidency & 12 for Prayer. 

8th A snow stonn in the morning. I spent the day at home. I set out a Bed of Raspburies. 

9 10, 1 1 I went to dry Creek after my Horses & oxen. It was A Hard storm. 30 mils. 

12 & 131 spent the time at home. 

14th Sunday I Preached at the Council House in the afternoon & was followed By O Pratt & H. C 
Kimball. We had the spirit of the Lord. 


Page66 




15th I spent the day in the Council House with my Brethren. 

16, 171 spent the time settelling my Accounts. 18th I commenced Ploughing in the Big field. 

19th We had A Snow Storm. I remained at home. 

20 * I planted 8 wine grape slips large on the East & 7 Rhode island grape slips small on the 
west. I spent the day in the Big field ploughing. 

21st Sunday I preached in the 14th ward school House to a large Congregation & had the spirit of 
Preaching. 

22, 23, 24, 25, & 26th I spent the week ploughing & putting in wheat. I put in five acres of wheat 
at Parley Pratts House. 

27th I spent the time in the Council House. 

28th I Preached at the 13th ward School House in the forenoon & wrote in the Afternoon 
[unt?]ill 4 ocok ^ then Attended the prayer Circle with the presidency And Prayer Twelve. The 
president called upon me in the Evening with several others & spent A little time with us. Sister 
Mary Meek Giles took up her abode with us as a Boarder /And was sealed to W Woodruff for 
time & Eternity/. 

29th I spent the day at home writing. I wrote two } letters one to I F Carter one to A O Smoot 
with an enclosed letter of Sister Smoots. 

30 & 3 1st I spent the time in the field ploughing & sewing Oats. 

April 

1, 2, 3d I spent the time ploughing [and?] sewing oats Except the 1st day of April I Attended a 
party at the Bath House, About 50 Gentlemen & 100 Ladies present. I Addressed the assembly at 
8 oclock in the Evening & returned Home. 

The Presidency & Twelve & those that Had ^ been at work in the Council House assisted in the 
Endowments?] were washed & annointed. I did not get word of it & was not present. 

The Eastern Mail arived this Evening which had been anxiously looked for for many weeks. The 
Mail was large. I Received 4 letters one from Azmon Woodruff [] one from Thompson & one 
from Ozem Woodruff & one from I. F. Carter. A large Amount of Papers were Received & 
contained much news from various sources. A Fire in Philadelphia] $200,000 of Dollars loss. A 
water spout destroyed 500 lives & much property. Dredful Steem Boat Disasters & fires all over 
the country. All Europe in Commotion. England preparing for war. Warm times in Congress 
because the Utah Judges had gone home and made reports against the Monnons Govornor 
Young & others. 


Page67 




Sunday 4th In Company with G A Smith I visited S. M. Blair who was sick but found him better. 
I went to the presidents Office & spent most of the day in Council Hearing the news from 
Abroad. During the Evening we had A prayer meeting. 

5th Br & Sister Young nailed on the Cushion to the Tabernacle Stand. I spent the day at home 
writing. 

April 6th 1852 The general Conference of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints met in 
the New Tabernacle built on the Temple Block in the city of the Great Salt Lake On this 6th day 
of April. There was present B Young H C Kimball & W Richards who Compose the first 
Presidency O Pratt W Woodruff & G A Smith of the Twelve Apostles Also the Patriarchs John 
Smith & Isaac Morley The president of the Stake D Spencer The Presidents of the Several 
quorums. The Tabernacle was filled to overflowing in a hour after the doors were open & 
hundreds could not get into the house. 

The President took the Stand at 10 oclok and Said we adjourned last conference to meet in the 
tabernacle. To day we are here in the New Tabernacle according to Apointment. The Hymn was 
read & sung (Lord in the Morning thou shalt Hear). The dedication Prayer was offered by 
Willard Richards. It was great & good. Is published in the Deserett News. Then two Hymns were 
sung. The President: 

I arise to say a few words as we have offered the dedication Prayer upon that subject. Who could 
foresee the way of the Lord as we now See it? We can now believe the manifestation of the Lord. 
He has done what we could not have expected but we have an experience that teaches us to trust 
in the Lord. We should not undertake to dictate the Lord for his work will go on. We have seen 
plenty try to dictate the Lord and try to build up themselves & not this kingdom. But they soon 
fall and the Lord overthrows them. But this work goes on the gospel is preached & all his work 
goes on. Let the wicked do what they please we have the privilege of worshiping God and Being 
happy. I wish to dedicate all I possess unto God & praise him & do all He requires of me. 

At the last conference I was sick & not able to be with you not able to be up. I meditated upon the 
state of the Church. I see some going to the right some to the left some after gold and the riches 
of this life. I said I would tell the Brethren my feelings. I said I would go to work & build a 
Tabernacle & worship the Lord so that we would not be driven home by a storm. I saw also that 
some would say I cannot go for I must take care of my Cattle my fann my fields &c. But I said I 
would go & worship God as long as I wished If the whole Earth sunk. Some delight in a fine 
Horse fann or House or good things of this life. But this is nothing to you. It is good in its place 
But you cannot pray because you cannot spend time. Some women cannot spend time to have 
prayers. You know it is your duty to pray & dedicate yourselves to God & your family & all you 
possess. Some feel as though they must go to night to the canyons. But if you will harken to 
Council you will say to all the world Stand By I am going to worship the Lord let the dead Bury 
the dead and dedicate myself & family & all I have to the Lord. No matter whether the Lord sets 
you about go at it & do it. 


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Their is a great change with this people. We have been sick now are well. Have been poor now 
are rich. Have been distressed & mobed now have peace. How long will it last? As long as this 
people do right. It has been 22 years since this Church was organized. We should serve the Lord 
Love the Lord with all our hearts scease to do wrong or find fault with any of the Saints If they 
do wrong Chastize them & not hate them. 

Are the people prepared to make a Covenant to dedicate themselves & their hearts to God from 
this hour? I feel to urge all the Brethren & Sisters to dedicate themselves unto the Lord. If we can 
gain the victory & say I will do the work of the Lord in all things. If He will make his will known 

1 will perform it. Not ownly say but perfonn it. Dedicate our affections unto the Lord. 

We may find some that Cannot feel it. They say I want some gold or sumthing to help myself 
with to get out of difficulty. What will be done in such a case? I will tell you what I would do If I 
had got but one Cow & she plagued me I would give her away. If you have any thing that is in 
your way give it away to the public works. Let nothing get between you & God and I will tell you 
what to do if any thing gets between you & God give it to the service of God for you cannot get 
through the gate of the Celestial City. Why are you not as pure as the Church of Enoch? Because 
you are not a mind to be. I will make my hands do the will of God & my heart will go with it. 

The spirit of Envy will not obey. Then unite your interest with this kingdom & this kingdom will 
Stand forever. Then put your interest with it so that you cannot get away. Then you will Stick to 
the kingdom. But if your purse of gold is in your pocket & you Apostitize you will go away but if 
your interest is in the church & [you] do wrong you may stay untill you get the spirit of God 
again & may be saved. 

We must build up this kingdom first & dont be afraid of Starveing for this kingdom will be an 
ever lasting Kingdom that will not be throne down. It will Stand forever. The more the wicked 
try to throw it down the more it will stand. If you want it to stand unite your interest with it in 
such A manner that you cannot get it away. Then you are safe. 

If I was to ask what your opinion was concerning the Millenuam I should get a great many 
opinions but the truth is all will be in one sens as it is now. You will eat, build, & do all things as 
now ownly you will be more pure & united and all will serve the Lord & not the devil any more. 
Let this people possess this spirit & Here would be the Millenium. It would be with any people 
that would do that. 

The President then Blessed the people And asked God to Bless them. They then sung an Hymn 
And Adjourned till 2 oclok. 

2 oclok PM. The House was crouded to excess. O Pratt of the Twelve Apostles Addressed the 
Assembly after singing & prayers. He said I address you but not without many reflections upon 
my mind. It is no small matter to address such a sea of faces. If the Lord does not pour out his 
spirit upon me it will not be but a little benefit for me to speak. Yet I do feel a great desire for the 
Lord to give me his spirit for your sake that you may be edifyed. 


Page69 




I feel anxious to receive principle & the salvation of the living & dead. What has that to do with 
the living? It has much to do with it. It is a truth revealed from Heaven that we are to be saviors 
upon Mount Zion to redeem the living & the dead. This is the subject that is given to me. I am 
detennined to trust in God who will give any man their portion in due season the responsibility of 
preaching this gospel to all the world & redeem the dead. We must live before the Lord in such a 
manner that we can have his approbation. 

What says the Book of Mormon upon this subject? Those that assist in building up Zion & shall 
do it by faith shall have the blessing of the Lord upon them. How will we do it? By listening to 
the Council of the priesthood of the Church & consecrating ourselves before God to his service 
as we were told by President Young we shall then have the power of the Holy Ghost & what 
greater gift can we have then this for this will teach us all things. And if a faithful man is sent 
abroad to any Nation to preach the gospel & is faithful & follows the spirit of truth He will 
accomplish his mission in spite of all Earth & Hell. When Nephi was sent back to get the plates 
of Brass & his brethren would not go the Lord told Nephi that He was stronger than 10,000 men 
to go & He would deliver the plates into his hands. He went & done as the Lord told him & got 
the plates. Look at this people. Our enemies told us we must go away to the west & not stay with 
them untill we were driven into the Rocky Mountains. But the Hand of the Lord was in it & the 
Leaders of this people were as much inspired to come to this place as the Nephi[tes?] were to get 
the plates. 

We can see that the Lord caused us to accomplish what we could not have done. We see to day a 
great mass of Saints before us. We have been sustained by the Hand of God in all these things. 
The Lord hath said I will give you an inheritance that you shall have in time & Eternity And 
Israel shall be led by the keys which I have given. We have been led into a goodly land with 
o[ur?] good Houses & fields of grain & all good things so their is Hardly room enough to receive 
it. Can it be possible that any man after seeing all the goodness of God up to this time can have a 
doubt about this work being true? 

Can you find a people that has got wisdom enough to get a revelation for themselves unless God 
is with them? This people are willing to do all things as far as they understand. The Mormons are 
increasing & will more, and their is no power that will st[ay/op?] the work of the Latter Day 
Saints. I rejoiced this forenoon while looking upon the faces of the saints & to see the spirit of 
God upon them & that their union was increasing & that they [wished/wanted?] to hear & learn 
truth. 

He refered to a certain Revelation that said that Zion should look upward & their Union be 
increased & thus strengthened. Then Zion should look down from above refering to the Zion of 
Enoch And that Zion would come & the Heavens would shake with gladness & the Earth would 
tremble with gladness And they will build up each other. I want to see that day come that we may 
see the Old Jerrusalem [Joined to meet?] Adam. This people will then look but small in 
comparison to what will be at that time. Here are the Twelve & seventies & thousands who will 


Page70 




bring the gospel to all men and Israel who are numerous will have to [have?] the feelings all 
manifested to them. They must be visited & instructed as we have been. They must be gathered 
as we have been. We cannot be perfect without them no more than they can be perfect without 
us. They all must be gathered from the fore quarter of the Earth & be instructed together & be 
prepared for the coming of the Lord. Is there not a prospect of this being done? Yes their is as 
much . 

I wish you could have a view of the State of affairs in England. Their was some 40,000 Saints 
Baptized when I left and there was not one in 400 but what would give all they possessed on 
Earth to be set down here. Many of them would be faithful if they were here. Again would not 
the Saints of the western Islands beg to Come Here? They would & they will come. You 
remember the parable of the vineyard that the servants of the Lord Had to labour & keep the top 
& rock Equal so that the top need not be to Heavy for the rock. If we can get a few thousands of 
the Saints that we can teach & instruct so that they will be come strong in faith & works then we 
[-] bring in thousand of weaker ones & they get tried the strong ones can succor them & they 
become Strong. Also the Devil have No power over them & Zion will soon be Esstablished & 
thousands upon thousands will come from the Nations to take shelter under the tree of Liberty in 
the gospel & kingdom of God from the dire calamnities of famine Pestilence & wars which will 
be poured out upon the whole Earth. 

There is sumthing els to be done to prepare this people for coming Events. Here are many of the 
rem[nant?] of Joseph that have got to be f[ollowed?] after & redeemed. I Believe the signs of the 
times indicate that the time has come when the work must commence. If they are sunk in the 
lowest depths of degredation yet they are the chosen seed the Desendants of Joseph who was sold 
into Egypt. The promises are unto them. They must be redeemed. 

Could we be placed in a better Condition to commence the work than we Now are? We cannot. 
Look what way we will they are all around us And the promises of God are to be fulfilled. Then 
shall we not pray for them? Let us exercise faith in their behalf & do all we can for them. No you 
not they are to be the main instruments that will build up Zion & Her Temples? And all the 
Gentiles who repent shall assist the Remnant of Jacob to build up Zion & the power of Heaven 
will come down to Help them. 

First we are to introduce the gospel to them & teach them the principles of the kingdom of God 
& give them the priesthood. Do you want to see the Zion of God built up & the Temple of the 
Lord reared up in this Generation upon the consecrated land? Then pray for the remnants of 
Joseph & their redemption for they have to assist in gathering all the House of Joseph & when 
they all get together the Heavens can no longer be Stayed but their prayers & faith will prevail & 
the Heavens will Come down & meet with the Saints. Then be ready ye Elders of Israel to go 
when the Lord calls upon you by his servants to leave all to go to preach the gospel to them in 
their own language & tongue and the power of God will rest upon you. I believe the Lord will 
send forth his messengers who are ordained unto this power to go forth unto the Lamanites & 
will clothe them with far greater power than when they were sent unto the corrupt Gentiles. The 


Page7 1 




Lord will not come untill we go to this people. We have a portion of the power of God with us 
but not in its fulness as it will be in days to come. This people will have to be tried in all things & 
proven & when they are found faithful & united they will then thrash the Nations by the power of 
the spirit of God & they cannot Help themselves. 

Orson Spencer then arose & made a few remarks. Felt to rejoice in the principle that Had been 
presented to us. They had cheered his heart & the Hearts of this people. I hope we shall improve 
& be faithful for these principle are true. The Lord says my people shall be willing in the day of 
my power that people who have g[iven?] the war houp & crept through the brush find the spirit 
of God & of their Father Jacob once more running through their veins & the people who think 
they are almost extinguished will find they are still alive & will fulfill all that is said concerning 
them. 

But I must say nothing. I must Hush. I will Hush. But will God Hush & be Still? No He will stir 
up the remnants of Joseph in his own [way] & in his own time. The Nations of the Earth are 
trying as [B .... ?] together they may do so & be prepard for the day of Burning. The child will be 
taken care of untill He can take care of Himself. We are on the stage of Action & we have our 
part to act in this gr[eat/and?] work and I rejoice that we have a part in the work And that it may 
roll on spedily is my Prayer. 

April 7th House filled at an Early hour to overflowing. Conference opened at 10 ock. Singing & 
Prayer By Elder Sherwood. President Young then said we shall take up the Authorities of the 
Church. The First Presidency Brigham Young H. C. Kimball & Willard Richards were then 
sustained. Also the Twelve Apostles & father John Smith as First Patriarch. John Young & 
C[ouncil?] as President of the High Priest [Quorum?] the Presidents of the Seventies. The Elders, 
Priests, Teachers & Deacons were all sustained in their places. Also the Bishops And all 
authorities & Committies. N H Felt John Banks & A Cordon were then ordained travelling 
Bishops. 

Brother Benjamin Clapp was [rejected?] as one of the presidents of?] the Seventies for not 
believeing in the Authorities of the Church & not doing his duty. And after a discussion upon the 
subject He was left without being [named] or rejected untill they could Hear from him. 

President B Young said I dont care whether the people Believe me to be a prophet Seer or 
Revelator or not. I have been vary profitable to this people & I have seen a good many things, & I 
have Revealed many things. He remarked that Brother Clapp was ruled by his wife & children & 
they were ruled by the devil. 

E Hunter was sustained as the presiding Bishop. Brigham Young was sustained as the Trustee in 
Trust for the Church of LDS. & E Hunter as assistant Trustee. Willard Richards was sustained as 
the Historian of the Church & General Church Recorder. Brigham Young was sustained as the 
president of the perpetual emigrating company to gather the poor. Also Heber C Kimball Willard 
Richards Wilford Woodruff Orson Hyde George A. Smith E. T. Benson J. M. Grant D. H. Wells, 
Willard Snow E Hunter D Spencer T. Bullock John Brown Wm Crosby A Lyman C. C Rich L D. 


Page72 




Young P P Pratt Orson Pratt & F D Richards were all sustained as assistance to the President. 

Daniel Spencer was sustained as president of the Stake of Zion H G Sherwood as president of the 
High Council. 

H C Kimball moved that Brigham Young Be the Govomor of the State of Deserett. Carried 
unanimously & H C Kimball Lieut Govornor, which was sustained with Applause. President 
Young remarked that No doubt before you get home you will hear we have committed treason. 

With Regard to the labour of this Tabernacle I will say the cost will be read before the meeting 
And all the Tithing & outlay. But if you feel that if your Expectations are realized you should be 
satisfyed. I will say I never saw No one room as Convenient as this. It will seat 2,200 persons & 
their is 2,500 persons [present?] to day. I expect the Tabernacle which we expect to build on this 
Block will seat fifteen Thousand people. We never did build a House large Enough to Hold the 
people. If we was to [Erect?] this whole 10 Acre Block so that it would Hold 200,000 people By 
the time we got it done their would be enough to fill it. The Lord is controlling our affairs & does 
more for us than we can do for ourselves or ask him to do for us. The more we are humble & 
labour & prepare for the gathering of Israel the faster they will gather. The Establishment of this 
Tabernacle was the result of my meditations while upon a sick bed. 

If their is any man that is full of the Holy Ghost & wishes to speak let him rise up & speak & use 
his liberty. 

I feel as usual to praise the Lord with all my heart. The hand of God has Been as visable in 
leading this people as it was in leading Israel in the days of Moses. Some had not faith to come 
on for fear of Starveing to death. Dont be in a Hurry to go away but stay untill you have 
worshiped. Enough at this time. 

Brother Kempton spoke a few moments. Believed this to be the kingdom of God. Had No doubt 
of it. 

President Young remarked that the Gentile would take exception to what is Said Here. I know as 
the Lord lives that the people of the United States have departed from the spirit & letter of their 
Constitution And this people will be ownly the people that will sustain it. 

G A Smith arose & Said we are a singular people. If we signify that we cannot worship as other 
Sects do but want to exercise our rights it is considered Treason. But a Senator from South 
Caralinia could rise up in the Halls of Congress & declare that the United States was more 
tyrancial than the Government of Austria &c [and] South Carolina would re[sist/ject?] the 
Government. This would not be considered treason. But dont be alarmed. God rules our destiny 
& will rule the world & if we do our duty their is no power that can harm us for we will make 
God our refuge. 

Br Gifford spoke a few moments & bore testimony of the work of God. Had been in the Church 
2 1 years in June next. Wm W Phelps next followed. Said this was the third time He had been to a 


Page73 




Dedication of A House built to worship God. I was at kirtland while the Angel of the Lord came 
in & sat there During service. A Hymn was sung & Adjourned till 2 ock. 


Met according to adjournment. Singing & Prayers. The President then Said we shall now lay 
before the Conference the manifest of the Recepts & Expenditures of the Tithing from Oct 1848 


to March 27 1852: 


Amount Received in cash 

$28,950.00 

In Produce 

$90,310.03 

In Horses Mules Cattle &c 

23,515.45 

In Houses Lots Lands & waggons 

66,546.21 

In Labour 

35.445.04 


$244,776.73 

Profits on Store goods 

17,411.70 

Goods Bought not yet paid for 

42,372.43 

Loaned Cash not Paid 

17,731.17 

Expenditures 


Council House 

$45,833.00 


$ 2,000.00 

Store & Store House 

$ 50,000.00 


$ 3,000.00 

Livingston store 

8,000.00 

Wm Store 

4,650.00 

Old Bowery & Removing 

3,500.00 

Blacksmith Shop 

3,500 

Tabarnacle 

18,500 

Bath House 

6,600 

Mint &c 

3,500 

Making fencees 

5,000 

1st Church fann 

15,000 


1,000 

Paid for City Lots 

15,654.27 


1,630 


4,500 

Deserett Potery 

7,200 

New Office 

500 

College 

1,123 


4,000 


2,500 


Page74 




Services of Tithing office clerks 


$ 3,883.35 
11,739.06 
6,000 

Houses built 12,462.34 

3,500 

Cost of Hay fed to Horses 500 

Teams & Provisions for Iron Co 3,000 

1,750 

7,000 

400 

375 

525 

Total of All $353,765.69 

Yet to be accounted for 36,495.12 

Property on Hand 74,550.04 

Many remarks were made by the Recorder which are not Here incerted explanations of the same. 
Those figures with No explanation opposite was lost in Reporting or not put down. 

President Young Remarked for my own satisfaction & great consolation there has not one dollar 
gone into the hands of a Lawyier as in the days of Joseph. At that time almost evry dollar had to 
go into the hands of the Lawyiers. They prosecuted him all the day long. But I said I would kill 
any man that sought to take me. Many thought my purse reached from Eternity to Eternity that 
their was No End. We were Called Bogus makers. Brother Kimball Said we would go whare we 
Could coin the pure gold $10 at a lick. We have done so even $20 at a time. 

Our Brethren went to Calafornia. The Hand of God was in all this. They opened the gold mines 
and the Lord had a Design in it to see who would be tryed by it. Never did nor never will any of 
the saints go to dig gold there without being sent without being d[amned?] by it. Mark my words. 
If we go unto the devils ground we shall be left to smell Hell. We shall feel the wrath of God. If I 
was sent there by the Lord I would go But the Lord has not Called me to go. Many Elders in 
Israel good men have tryed it & smutted themselves up so that it is quite a question if they will 
ever be washed clean. 

I have said I did not think their was $1 in $70 paid in Tithing that has Been spent on the public 
works but it seems from the Book that there has been about one fourth. The other three fourths I 
have had to borrow. If I have to Borrow all the money that is used and none assist me to pay it it 
will make my head ake. I have trusted the Lord & served him all the day long. And when I 
undertake any thing I persevere untill I accomplish it. I see the difference between trusting in God 
& doing business according to the order of the world. Their is not one hair droped from my head 
unnoticed & does God not know what I want? 


Page75 




Their never was a miracle ownly to the Ignorant. It is all to be accounted for on Natural 
principles. The Lord will not turn stone & clay into gold to suit me. Their is enough without it. 
Jesus did not make Bread out of stone but He had knowledge & power & did Call together the 
Elements to make Bread & the Elements into the water to make wine & he can call the Elements 
together to make gold as well as bread & wine. 

But the Lord is not going to work a miracle to cloth us. Raise your wool & flax & spin & weave 
it. Make it up & not have to pay cash for evry pound you use & what you by is Hardly worth 
making up but what you make is strong & will wear. 

Brother Major spoke on Home Manufacture a few moments. 

Wednesday Evening. The Elders filled the House at an Early Hour And was Addressed by 
President B. Young who arose & said this is Certainly a mixed Congregation of all the officers of 
the Church. We are to be instructed in all things. The knowledge that is now in the midst of this 
people is more than in all the world besides. All science is in the midst of this people even if they 
have not learned it as the world has. I have my cogitations & views of the affairs of this kingdom 
But I have learned that we must write work to the scribe. If not we may fail in it. But if we work 
in faith & Confidence the Lord is apt to Help us. I asked a favor of the Bishops to divide the 
money debts in each ward, that it might be paid. Let us contend with ourselves & disipline 
ourselves untill evry thing that is within us is brought in subjection to the Law of Christ. 

You have been taught the first principles of the gospel now teach yourselves & the Church. 

Our school is the school of the prophets. This is a school to plain & polish ourselves. And 
suppose under such privilege we should endulge in Evil & neglect our families & our duty to 
God. All our former sins would be upon our Heads. It is for a man to commit himself & all that 
He presides over unto God to do his will & Continue to do it untill you are sanctifyed. If your 
Neighbor does you Evil do not do evil to them. Bear with him & set him right but dont quarrel 
with him but be careful that you conduct yourself well untill you are prepared for the society of 
Holy men. This is as I said the school of the Prophets. Our Baptism is ownly the Begining of our 
work. You must then go on to perfection. You must perfonn this work. Our children understand 
the gospel but do they understand the way to govern their lives? We will never see a day but what 
we can leam. We shall not inherit the glory of God all at once or understand all knowledge but 
God teaches us small principles to prepare us for greater ones. Let us leam in this school. 

There is a great many [Books?] of Educating of the present day. The main Branch of our study is 
Theology. I understand it Better than any of the world. Adam, Enoch, Moses & Aaron, Jesus & 
the Apostles Have all been in the same school in their day & Have faithfully [ ] that they 

might be perfected. They are my Brethren & will be my company. 

And I now tell you if you want me to have full fellowship with you scease speaking Evil of God 
& all good men whether in Heaven or on Earth. When a man is in the right tract He will [come?] 


Page76 




& lay down any thing at the feet of a Brother to settle a difficulty & rather wrong themselves than 
to have a difficulty. Do for the truth sake & my sake take my Councel. The people want 
Revelation. This is Revelation. / / If you wanted Revelation written I Could write Revelation 
evry day about Building a Temple diging gold going to England or any other place. 

I profess to be an Apostle . Evry Apostle will have to be a Revelator & have Revelations if their is 
thousands if they do their duty & live up to their calling. If not they will have to be removed. But 
A man that is not an Apostle has not power to stand at the Head of the kingdom of God Hold the 
keys of the priesthood & build up & lead the church of God. The Highest authority on the Earth 
is an Apostle. Jesus Christ will have a set of men [by appointment?] with him that will follow 
him to the [end?] and do all that He requires of them. They will have the greater glory but those 
that cannot endure these things will have a Lesser glory. 

G. A. Smith followed & Said I want to bear my testimony to the Saints. Many want a mission 
But let me tell you that any man who has been baptized into this kingdom that moment He took a 
mission which will continue untill death before it closes. If we do not work in all things 
agreeable to the Council of the Church it would not be right. Talk of paying one tenth & buying 
our way to Heaven. Brother Joseph wished the Seventies to subscribe as much as a gim[let?] 
Handle to build up the Seventies Hall. If Brother Joseph Young Had the right spirit He would not 
ask for such subscriptions. If the Elders was as ready to build that Hall as they would be to go on 
a mission they would rise up & do it right off & the quicker you commence to build the quicker it 
will be finished & such a Hall will be worth 5 times the amount of personal property. Make your 
large fanns large Houses & Have spare Room. Neglect public Building. It would be a loss. 

You may work yourself almost to death And then be Called away at a moments warning. I was 
called to go to Iron County. Some Elders that was called to go on that Mission sent gold diggers 
to go in their place & fill the mission for them. I never thought of leaveing a mission that was 
given me untill that mission was closed up. Many worked all winter to build & put in grain then 
Left it in the spring & go home. 

Our Mormon News is our paper. We should sustain it. We are neglecting the Education of our 
Children. Knowledge is power. The Lord will help those who help themselves. The English by 
the knowledge they possessed conquered 200,000,000 of people & brought them in subjection to 
their Laws. What we learn we shall carry with us. The mobs will bum our ho[mes/-uses?] & 
destroyed our property but they cannot bum or destroy the knowledge of our hearts. We should 
keep the Sabbath. It is not right to spend this day in Hunting Cattle & labouring but should spend 
the time in the worship of God & we should improve each leasure moment in treasureing up 
knowledge. If we Could lay up one Idea each day for a year we should have a store of knowledge 
that no man could exhaust in a speech of three hours in length and the wicked could not stand 
before you. The most learned man of the day is Burrett A Blacksmith. He was a self learned & 
made man. Pay attention to this Brethren & improve yo[urselves] by it. We now have the 
privilege of speaking in one of the Best Halls in the world thank God. Amen. 


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Zera Pulsipher spoke & Bore testimony of the [ ] work. 

Thursday 8th House filled at 9 oclok. Meeting opened By Prayer by Wilford Woodruff who Also 
addressed the Assembly. Spoke in sum measure upon the subject of Education. He said we are 
commissioned to preach the gospel to all the world & stand before kings & rulers. It is our duty 
to store our minds with knowledge learning & wisdom that we may be qualifyed to stand before 
all men. 

The Lord has called upon this people & ordained them to preach the gospel & make war upon the 
powers of darkness & continue that warfare untill the Earth is redeemed & the name of God 
honored among men. Who should spend all of his life in preaching the gospel & should ownly 
bring in one man into the kingdom of God who should be saved with an Everlasting salvation 
that man would have cause to rejoice through all Eternity over the redemption of that one Soul & 
if He brings many souls into the kingdom of God His Joy will be still greater. The warfare of the 
saints is great in the Earth in this dispensation & we should all take hold of it with a 
determination to Conquer & never scease untill our warfare is accomplished and evry man will 
be satisfyed with his reward in the End. 

Many other remarks were made by the speaker who soon gave way for Orson Spencer the 
chanceller of the Deseret University who delivered an address upon Education. 

Orson Spencer Delivered an Address upon the subject of Education which he read from his 
manuscript which I suppose will be published in the Deseret News so I did not report it. 

Judge Z Snow made a few remarks & said if a woman was an Educated & Exalted minded 
person she would teach good principles to her Children. A person without any Education would 
be as ignorant as the unborn child for whatever knowledge A person did possess He got it by 
some kind of Education. Some think that Education consists solley in teaching Elementary 
Branches. It may consist in farming or any pursuit of life. We have got to create all we have out 
of the Elements around us & we want to learn how to do it. We must manufactur all we use for if 
we get any thing from the States we will have to pay High for it if not bring us into Slavery by it. 
Therefore we must lay a plan to beat our Enemies or they will beat us. 

W W Phelps followed with some remarks. 

President Young next followed & said the subject I aim at is to Enlighten the mind. It is expected 
we have to learn letters with regard to the principle of Education. It Commences with the 
mothers. I do not like to See Mothers attend to every thing Els but their children. They should 
teach their Children all they can for Early impressions will last persons through life whether they 
be good or Bad. I will tell you the truth as it is in Eternity. If the child does not have good 
instruction in Early life it will be required at the Hand of the Mother & not at the hand of the 
Mother . The Child will think the mother is the best woman on Earth & the mother has power to 
instill into the mind of the child what they please & what the Mother imparts unto them will stay 


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with them through life. The Mother Should take care of the Children & not spend their time 
watching the Husband. It is the duty of the Mothers to Stay at home & take Care of the Children. 
My duty Calls me to be in this Stand. I know not what my Children are about or what they are 
doing. They may be in the Streets swareing [for] what I know as others do. If they should go to 
Hell it would be required at the Hands of the Mother & not at my hands. 

A Child of mine shall not Conquer me. I would sooner see them die than that they should 
conquer me. If any one of my Children will not follow my footsteps I will disinherit & disown 
them. They shall not have part in my kingdom. I would rather get children Adopted to me that 
will keep the Commandments. No Child should rise up & teach & controll the Mother Or woman 
should /not/ rise up & dictate the Husband. And the Husband should not rise up & try to dictate 
His president or the Lord. 

In speaking of the English Language He said it was vary incorrect. He would not adopt it any 
more than He would the Methodist disipline. 

Education begins with the Mother to the Child. You must keep it in rememberance that the Lord 
Has Commanded you to multiply & replenish the Earth that you may have Joy & rejoiceing in the 
day of the Holy Resurrection. Do you keep your minds pure & do you pray night & day? Now 
pray from the time of conception till the time of Delivery that your child may be filled with / the 
Holy Ghost & that a Noble Spirit from Eternity may Come into the tabernacle & that the Holy 
Ghost may rest upon the father Mother & child. 

Often when some speak you cannot understand they make use of such High flown words. But 
when I speak you can understand for I speak to you understanding the variety in the English 
Language. I would like to be with the Holy Ones who are full of Eternal light. A point of the 
finger [at another?] would Communicate without words. When I am full of the Holy Ghost I can 
see a man as well behind me as before. I can see their hearts by the Spirit of God & know what is 
in them. Adjourned untill I oclok. 

Met according to Adjournment at 1 oclok. President Young arose & Said Red a Hymn which was 
sung. Prayer offered. 

H C Kimball then arose & said I wish to speak to the understandings of the people. I never saw 
any room like this on earth. The cock pit in Preston is some like it. I am satisfyed that [we?] 
Cannot build fast enough to Accomodat the People. President Young teachings are sweeter than 
the best morsel I ever tasted. If we are faithful in keeping the Commandments of God you will 
never fall in Battle but will be preserved to finish your work on Earth. Other interesting Remarks 
were made By Brother Kimball. 

Volenteers were then kalled for to go with their teams to meet the Emigrants. 100 was kalled for. 
88 names were taken who volunteered. Some men were then appointed to go on foreign Missions 
as follows: Thomas Margaretts to Italy, T B. Broderich John Dolley, John Annstrong to England 
George Parmon to the nations. Wm Fatheringham go to Calcuty, Edward Stephenson to 


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Giberalter. James Dilly & two others go to Scotland. Alfred A Smith go on a Foreign Mission. 
Meeting was then Adjourned so the 70 Could Have the room at 4 oclok. 

The Seventies Held A meeting & was Addressed By Joseph Young GA. Smith W Woodruff & 
others concerning buildings the 70 Halls & other matters. 

Friday 9th Snow Stonn in the morning. House Filled & meeting commenced at 9 oclok. After 
Prayer the people were Addressed By Phineas Young who exhorted the people & spoke many 
good things. 

President Brigham Young Said this people are Blessed with all that Heart can wish, and yet many 
are not satisfyed. This is the case with some spirits & they want things illegally. But is it not 
necessary that we should have a Temple? It is Absolutely necessary that we should have a 
Temple to worship the Most High God in. A Tabernacle is to Assemble the Multitude for 
meetings but a Temple is to gather the priesthood in that they may do the work of the Lord. Are 
we prepared to go & redeem our dead? Is their a place prepared to go & Redeem our dead? No 
their is not. We give Endowments Here but it is like trying to step on the top round first. If we 
had the privilege of stoping or Building a Temple our works would not be legal but we do these 
things untill we have time to build a Temple. If we had gone onto the top of the mountains if we 
had no room it would be legal & right. 

Brother Kimball says we have to make our own heaven. The Lord cannot save us if we do not 
save ourselves. If we expect to get our selves Endowments we have got to follow the footsteps 
that God has set for us to walk in & if we walk in that Channel God own our labours & 
acknowledges all that is done. Now all the ordinances will have to be attended to again when we 
get a temple yet if any one dies in the faith those ordinances will be legal but all that live will 
have to do it again. And I want to say as a Revelation that if you will not help build a Temple & 
have faith in the work you will be lost. 

A word to those who have got their Endowments. We shall work as fast as we can And what we 
have done is legal. If we had been in [our] own land & had a right to a Temple we should not do 
as we now do. Many [who] have died in the faith have been worn out. 

Th[ose/eir?] ordinances are legal. Those who came in the Church first & are faithful have a right 
to the ordinances first. I wish the people to understand that when the Lord has any thing for them 
they will have it. But when the Lord has Nothing for the people I dont wish them to teaze me for 
what they cannot have. When their is to be a work done I will tell you. Now we shall begin to 
build a Temple in 1853. This Tabernacle will have to accomodate the people untill the Temple is 
built. If this wont Answer for the people untill we build a Temple we will make a Bowery on the 
North & South sides of the Block. As soon as the Temple is built we will give you your 
Endowments. 

If their is any who was in Jackson County & other places & have Helped to build up the kingdom 
of God in the early days we want to bless them first & if their is any man or Child who went in 


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the Battalion or in the Pioneers come forward & get your Blessings Before others & we will bless 
you. If you are faithful their is no Blessing in the Celestial Law or kingdom of God but what you 
will get. 

I want to be sealed to my Father before I shall be a legal heir. If I was to die & their was not a 
child of mine to live to do it for me Some friend would be raised up to do it for me. If not my 
Body will soon be raised up and I would be in some temple with my Brethren to tell them what to 
do. 

I can see the Hearts of man & the Spirits of men. If they do try to be hid I can see them. I see 
many who asspire to be the first & to be exhalted above their fellows. But I can tell you all you 
will be rewarded according to what you do whether you do little or much or nothing at all. Some 
wish to be above Brother Brigham. Why was I not called before Brother Brigham Joseph? Why 
does not some one ask the Lord to appoint them to be above Brother Brigham? But the Lord will 
laugh at you. Such forget the kingdom of God. They are corrupt. Let evry man [should] say what 
can I do to build up the kingdom of God? Ask the Mother who is trying to do the will of God 
what Her reward will be. They will say I dont know. I will say if you are faithful & satisfied with 
your Condition in this life and you will be blessed & satisfyed with your condition in the world to 
come. Let evry one strive to be satisfyed with their condition in life & that will be a Blessing to 
them. 

We are in debt & we can pay those debts in oxen now we want to have the Brethren turn out 
some oxen to pay those debts &c. 

Elder Banks followed in some interesting remarks & said the spirit of God was burning like a fire 
in his bones. I dont Ask Brother Young to say that the Lord has sent him & that He must say this 
or that in the name of the Lord. I dont belive that any man has made a sacrifice for this kingdom 
for all that a man does He gets his reward for not ownly in this world but in the world to come 
Eternal life. It is distressing to hear men say they [want?] the president to get a Revelation in 
order to do this or that. His Council to me is sufficient. 

I Also hear men say that we are the off scourings of the Earth. It is a great Burlesk on the Church 
& kingdom of God for you are the greatest people & the most Blessed of any on Earth. You have 
power to teach [and] kings & princes & potentates of the Earth tremble. I have seen a man that 
had learned But 3 letters & forgotten 2 of them. Was ignorant yet he made A learned Doctor fear 
& tremble & leave the House. This people are a wonderful people. There are none like them. I 
Have herd the President say that instead of our being called to pay one tenth we should be h[..]led 
as Tithing & send all we possess. Be ready to help build up the kingdom of God. The spirit of 
God [is now?] with this people. 

Brother John Young next Addressed the assemble & bore Testimony that Joseph Smith was A 
Prophet of God that Brigham Young H C Kimball & W Richards are prophets of God & that we 
had many prophets of God. 


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I remember the time when we were to work Hard to build the Temple in Nauvoo. I remembered 
what Broth Brigham Said that if we were faithful in finishing this Temple we should have our 
Endowments if we had to get them in a Tabernacle in the wilderness. 

We are now in a tabernacle in the wilderness & getting our Blessings. He said He would lead us 
to a place whare we should have helth & drink the pure stream from the mountains. We now see 
it & I bear testimony that we have a prophet of God with us even a Reveletor & it stregnghtens 
[strengthens] my heart continually. I enjoy all I have for if you do not listen to the voice & 
council of the presidency of this Church it will be more tolerable in the day of Judgment for 
Sodom & Gomorrow than for this people. 

This has been one thing that has been an injury to me. When Brother Brigham went to England 
He asked me to go with him. When He got into the waggon to Start I told him I Could not go. He 
said I Could go & He kept beckening for me as long as I was in sight. I then missed it & it was an 
injury to me. 

I have Enlisted for a great salvation. We make our own Heaven or Hell & have Angels or devils 
enough to fill it. I dreamed the Devil Had a looking glass. By looking into it you could see all the 
faults of your Neighbors but Could not see any of your own. I also Dreamed A woman went into 
Bishop Hunter & stole sister Hunters dress & came out into the street. I followed her to get the 
dress. When I looked into her face I saw she was a Black Negro wench. I asked her name. She 
said it was Mesmerism. You who have the priesthood should be careful to do the will of God. 

President Joseph Young Requested the Seventies & the [-] to meet him in the Council House. 
Meeting Adjourned till 2 oclok. 

Meeting [-] at 2 oclok. Was Addressed By Father Morley who bore testimony of the work & 
spoke of the I[ndians?]. 

Brother Sherwood next spoke. Bore testimony of the work. Spoke of the Endowments in kirtland 
the desire Joseph Had to come to the wilderness but the Brethren would not come untill the 
Devel drove them out. Would do any thing for Salvation. Advised the Elders when they go out to 
preach not to teach any thing they do not know & stop when they get through. 

Brother Wm Hyde next spoke & made many good remarks & said 18 year ago I was Baptized By 
Br J Murdook confirmed By Orson Pratt. Brother Kimball said I will give you a key wh[areby?] 
you may never fall. Always keep within your bosom a T[eaohable?] spirits. Brother Joseph said 
Be Humball & Teachable & the Lord will bless you. Speak a good word occasionally for Brother 
Joseph. I believe the next time we are opposed the door be opened wider & wider then ever & we 
shall be freer then Ever. I want to live in such a manner that at last we may meet Brother Joseph 
with a glad Heart & Cheerful Countenance & a smile upon the face. 

Brother Kimball next spoke & said our design is to teach the people & perfect them for what is to 
come. I have herd many say what sacrafizes they had made for this cause but I have left all for 


Page82 




the cause. I do not call it a sacrafice. You are to be rewarded with me. The Saints will have trials 
to pass through. The day will come when the women will have to Feed the Beef & pork while the 
men go to war. Take the counsel of Brother Young & the Leaders of the Church. You have got to 
follow your leaders & they will lead you to the Celestial kingdom of God. Keep to things that 
have been committed to you & the Lord will preserve you. Come to meeting to night male and 
female at 6 oclok & we will tell you sumthing. I never saw this people when they were doing 
better or felt better than they do to day. I know that Brother Brigham is tender & kind to the 
people. Their is no woman more kind to a child than He is to this people. He is a Father to us 
continually. I am going to put in evry Ox I havegot into the public works & I want evry man to 
do the same untill the debts are paid. We must trust in God & cleave unto him as Jesus does unto 
the Father. 

Meeting Adjourned till evening when the House was filled again. Was Addressed By Bishop 
Hunter who told His experience [how?] He came into the Church & was followed By President 
Young. 

£ President Young arose & said I will bear Testimony to what Brother Hunter said that the 
Elders go work & pull in their wards & get the people together at my house if nowhare els & 
preach if it is but few moments. I would pray & labour till I could Preach. You say that you 
would go & preach to the Stranger & teach them the gospel. I know it is esier to [teach?] them 
than it is to get the Saints together & teach them to be saved & exalted. I now it is the desire of 
this people to get sumthing new But you should improve upon what you have. Here is the place 
to expose your ignorance & fals views, to let them out & be corrected. If you have faults dont go 
into private Houses & preach them whare there is No one to correct you nor while abroad among 
other countrys but Here is the place to let your Errors out not keep them back. Teach people to 
controll themselves. Teach good doctrin & practices. 

Here is the place to become a polished shaft. I like to remain Here to see you to be with you. I 
want to say to the Elders of Israel were you ordained to preach the gospel? If so it is not wisdom 
or prudent to mingle with the excesses of the wicked or in any of their exercises for then the devil 
will have no Advantage over you. I mingle with the Saints Here in their recreations & exercises 
but let me go abroad & subject myself to mingle with the wicked [and] I am on the Devils ground 
& subject myself to him. If I mingle with any company Here for recreation I controll that 
company but if I step onto the Devils ground He contrails it. Remember then of all [things?] that 
what you do do it in the name of the Lord & let all your acts be to do the will of God. 

It is so that A man Could not exercise his privileges because of the traditions of the world. All 
Christians would think it a great sin to have a fiddle. They would say it is wicked to have music. 
They have made it a sin. I have not put a desire in my heart for music but the Lord Has. Music 
will calm the ferocious beast. Who caused this? The Lord. 

I want to say a few words about tithing. You now what was said at the last Conference. The 
Saints have done more during the last 7 months than in 7 years before. I feel to bless you. Call 


Page83 




upon this people to put their all upon the Alter & they will do it. 

I feel like a Father to this people. No mother can love Her babe more than I do this people. When 
you do wrong I feel oppressed in spirit & the Lord is grieved. I feel to urge it upon you all to 
sceace to do evil & learn to do right. 

All that we have is the Lords. He does as He pleases. The Thrones & kingdoms of the world are 
all governed by him & in the End all will be found right & they will find they have an agency 
unto themselves & all will do as they please. If they do right they will be saved get Glory & 
Exaltation & the wicked will go to Hell. There is no place whare God is not. Find Empty space & 
there the Lord will not be. 

^ I will now preach you another Sermon. Their is one great Master and Head in all kingdoms & 
governments?]. So with our Father in Heaven. He is a Tabernacle. He Created us in the likeness 
of his own image. The Son has also a Tabernacle like the Father & the Holy Ghost is a minister 
to the people but not a tabernacle. 

Who begat the Son of God? Infidels say that Jesus was a Bastard but let me tell you the truth 
Concerning that matter. Our Father begat all the spirits that were before any tabernacles were 
made. When our Father came into the Garden He came with his celestial body & brought one of 
his wifes with him & eat of the fruit of the garden untill He could begat a tabernacle. And Adam 
is Michael or God And all the God that we have any thing to do with. They Eat of this fruit & 
formed the first Tabernacle that was formed. And when the VIRGIN MARY was begotton with 
Child it was By the Father and in no other way ownly as we were begotton. I will tell you the 
truth as it is in God. The world dont know that Jesus Christ Our Elder Brother was begotton by 
our Father in Heaven. Handle it as you please. It will either seal the damnation or salvation of 
m[e/a?]n. He was begotton by the Father & not by the Holy Ghost. When you go to Preach & 
believe that Jesus Christ was begotton by the Holy Ghost dont lay Hands upon the Heads of 
Females for the reception of the Holy Ghost lest it Beget her with Child And you be acused. I 
have told you nothing in this thing but what you have red in the Bible. I do not frame it. 

The President then refered to the tithing & said if one quarter of the Tithing money that was due 
had been paid we should have had more means. The merchants have carried away $100,000 to 
the States. Did the people pay tithing on that? No. Now Bishops see to this matter & then see 
what your feelings would be if you was in my place & see the Hundreds that call upon me & my 
Brethren. If the Tithing was paid that is due we would have enough to pay all debts. I now say to 
the Bishops go to my yard & take all my stock & lick all up clean then do the same by my 
Brethren untill all the debt are paid. All voted to follow the presidents example. 

[April 10] ? Saturday morning Meeting opened at 10 oclok. House filled. \ Prayer By W. 
Woodruff. President Kimball called for Professor A Carrington But made the following remarks: 

You have learned Enough to know that the spirit of God will be grieved at any folly manifest in 
the House of God. Angels are ministering spirits to those who are heirs of salvation but when you 


Page84 




do wrong the Angels of the Lord will leave And the Angels of the devil will take their place & 
keep their company. Then you are on dangerous ground & if you will not hear the prophets that 
God sends unto you you would not hear the Angels of God. 

Some have said that I was vary presumptuous to say that Brother Brigham was my God & 
Saviour. Brother Joseph was his God. The one that gave Joseph the keys of the kingdom was his 
God which was Peter. Jesus Christ was his God & the God & Father of Jesus Christ was Adam. 

The Lord wants us to have wisdom to circumscribe the Earth. Do you not suppose that God has 
pleasure in seeing this people who are the weak things of the Earth to confound the wise Noble & 
great? Some will tell the gentiles all that transpires among us. 

Brother Joseph Young followed with a few remarks. 

\ A Carrington was then called to the Stand who \ arose & said I rejoice with you my Brethren in 
the Blessings you enjoy. Yes I rejoice with you. Brother Kimball sayes that what I say will be 
right. All science that is in the world that is not Consistent with reason & demonstration is false. 
But all that is truth is good no matter who has it. With regard to Education we are all interested in 
it yet we have different views of it. Their is three things that are hard to speak upon: 1st is a 
dinner speech 2d is a Temperance speech 3d is a speech on Education. I despise that vain 
phylosophy that puffeth up. I do not know of any truth that does not belong to salvation that is of 
worth. Evry thing that is knowledge pertains to salvation. We have come unto the work and have 
to save ourselves our Children & our progenitors. 

I dont know of any thing that we can do to lay a foundation for this better than to disipline the 
mind & Body & bring them both in subjection to the mind & will of God. The ownly way we 
Can do right is to keep the Commandments of God. 

One of the Command[ments] of God require us to multiply & replenish the Earth. When a young 
man gets married to a good young woman & the Hunny moon is over and a foundation laid for 
posterity then the man begins to scold his wife. The wife gets the same spirit & this goes to the 
Child. This is an Evil & follows the Child through life. The Blood nurses the embrio & as the 
child grows the Evil increases with the child. The Hunny moon should last always & the 
Husband should gratify the wife in all things that she righteously wishes as far as He can & the 
mother should possess a spirit of contentment & peace at least untill the Child leaves the Breast. 
Then you will see a Noble Tabernacle for a Noble spirit to dwell in. 

The spirits in Eternity have their times & seasons. Would not a Noble spirit rather take a Noble 
Tabernacle than a poor one? When many Children are bom they cannot suck the breast because 
of the Corruption of their parents. This is probably the fault of the Doctors for not teaching the 
female as they ought to be taught & when the Child is Bom the practice has been to give it a 
Brandy tody or Chamberlie while the breast is the place for the Child. Let the Child have the 
milk & let such foolery alone. Dont play with the tabernacles of your children or treat them 
foolishly But treat them in wisdom. You dont see any body giving a Brandy Tody or chamberlye 


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& they do well to follow the Course of nature. 

The Gentile Doctors Cannot Cure deseases. They do not know how. I will prove it to you. The 
old school give medicine by the shovel full. The New School will not give a pill as large as the 
smallest Bird shot. Is their any Equality in this? I say down with the whole system. I have no use 
for them. Next comes the Hydrapath the water Cures. Well even water is not to be trifled with. 
Look at the foolery & the differeance of the doctors. It is much better to follow out the natural 
law in all things than to trust to them. Who would ever think of giving such a dose to a Calf as 
they would give a Child? 

Their is no such Children as the Latter Day Saints. If we cannot do what we want to our Children 
may. If we cannot get Back to the primeval platfonn becaus of the iniquity of our Fathers still it 
is our duty to teach them principle & truth. When children begin to talk dont teach them baby 
talk for what you learn the Child in that State has to be unlearned. Then be careful what you say 
or do before your Children for you would be asstonished at the attention children pay to what you 
say. Be sure to take time to teach your Children & not neglect it. Many other interesting remarks 
were made by Brother Carrington on the occasion. 

Brother G. A. Smith followed with interesting remarks. 

President B Young next followed & said I want to bear testimony to what Brother Carrington has 
said. He has spoken the truth. I thank him for what He has said. What he has said is true and if 
we follow the testimony we will return to the power of our first parents. This is the way for the 
Nations of the Earth to return to God. The Lamanites will be a white & delightsome people 
through this procedure or principle. The Nations of the Earth cannot return to God upon any 
other principle. This kind of teaching is what pleases me. The Doctors are ignorant & they teach 
others to be ignorant. We should understand our organization but the people of this day have lost 
all good scense. They are a set of fools because they have been taught to be fools. Now have 
some sens & believe what Brother Carrington has said. I now these are virtueous principles. The 
world are corrupt. You have got to be pure in heart or you cannot abide the day that is coming. 

At 2 oclok PM D H Wells Addressed the Saints & bore testimony to the work of God. Brother 
Wm. I Appleby made some remarks concerning parents & Children. Brother G D Wall next 
spoke. He said He was the first Baptized in England. Wm. Clayton next spoke & expressed his 
feelings. Brother Kimball next spoke for a short time & meeting was adjourned till Sunday 
morning. 

Sunday Morning April 1 1th After singing & prayer Brother Kimball Addressed the meeting & 
said the spirit of God would make a humbly man handsome. I do not place my affections upon 
any thing but God & Jesus Christ. You ought to love Brother Brigham enough to keep his 
commandments. So with my family. If they love me they will keep my commandments. If you 
want to be a friend to Brother Brigham & his Counsellors live Holy Before God & do right & if 
you will do what you know you will do right. Do by your neighbor as you would wish him to do 
unto you. 


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Some men wanted to get women from their husbands who are dead & get them sealed to them. 
Such would rob the dead. This is wrong. Let me do for the dead what they cannot do for 
themselves & this is right & the dead will plead for that man to be blessed. Never take a course to 
rob the dead. 

I will have time to redeem all my dead friends either in time or Eternity. The Melinium will be 
spent in the Temples of the Lord in Redeeming our dead. If my friends will not Receive my 
testimony I will let them alone & when they have been in Hell long enough I will go & Redeem 
them. I will take a Course to get the Blessing upon my seed that Adam had upon his seed. Joseph 
Had it & I have it. If my children sin they will have to Repent of & pay for it but will be saved in 
the End. We Should not go to law with each other. All that will not go to Law say I. All said 1. 1 
would as lieves be damned without a man as to be damned with a man that would steal a dead 
mans wife for He will be damned any how. 

I will say that Brother Hunter is the chief Bishop & He has a right to Chose his two Counsellors. 

Bishop Hunter arose & made some Remarks & said He should choose men that could assist. He 
said Brother Brigham Young was at the Head & his Councellors were inspired of the Holy 
Ghost. I select for my councellors Brigham Young & Heber C Kimball. Then Brother Kimball & 
W Richards laid Hands upon Bishop Hunters Head & Blessed him in the following words: O 
God the Eternal Father I Ask in the name of Jesus Christ while we lay our hands upon th[e/y?] 
head that all our words may be dictated to the Holy spirit while we set apart Brother Hunter as a 
presiding Bishop. We here by set you apart to be a presiding Bishop & to be a Judge in Israel. We 
Bless you with the spirit of your Office & calling. You shall have wisdom to Judge between good 
& Evil in all things & to be a great Benefit to the House of Israel & that they may uphold thee by 
their faith that thou mayest administer in faith & righteousness & be a great Blessing to the 
people & administer to the poor & needy. Thou shalt have desernment like the lightning to detect 
the evil & those who seek to deceive & that all may receive thy teachings & that thy work may 
work together for the good of all the people. Even so Amen. 

Brother Truman Angel was Nominated to continue in his Office of Architect for the Church. Was 
Carried. f_ Brother Kimball said to Brother Brigham you shall be blessed & all your House & not 
one of them Shall be lost & no man shall get Between me & Brother Brigham & Brother 
Richards & no man or woman shall get between the Twelve & Presidency. If they do they will 
get pinched & any man or woman that tries to get between us will be damned. They tried to 
prejudice Joseph against us in his day & they will be damned. The Twelve are the best men that 
live and any man that tries to put their feet upon their neck will get the feet of the Twelve upon 
their neck. 

(Brother Brigham came in at this time.) Do as Br Brigham tells you & all will be right & you will 
not have sorrow. Follow my council & you will not have sorrow. If my own family would take 
my Council & had faith in me I would never have a doctor in my family but I have doctors here 
that I have faith in. Let me send for a doctor & they have faith in him & not in me then what 


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further am I? 


Brother Brigham Said that is true & worthy of note. It is natural for a man to be always 
borrowing trouble but we have trouble enough without Borrowing. If you are not one you are not 
mine saith the Lord. But if you abide in me you will bring forth fruit to the glory of God. When 
we learn this lesson our sorrows will scease. When we get the cloak off we shall be in heaven. In 
this House is my Heaven for I am in a heavenly place with Holy men & Angels. The Bishop with 
Brother Hunter are good men. 

Seth Taft was Appointed a travelling Bishop. Others were spoken off as travelling Bishops. 

I have been talking about the union in the world their would be a p[a/e?]tition between the 
different Branches but in the kingdom of God it is not so. But they are all united. 

If I hier a man to work I want him to be faithful in all things. Evry man Should earn all they can 
& labour all they are able to do & not over labour. I believe a man should be paid according to 
what they earn as God Rewards men according to their works. 

The old Lions neck is out of the yoke & they will not put it on again for Brother Brigham shall 
whip them out & they shall not whip him out nor me nor my Brethren. You shall be Blessed & 
the Earth shall bring forth for your good & you shall be blessed in your posterity. And I say it in 
the name of Jesus Christ. Brother Brigham said it was a prophesy & was true. Conference was 
Adjourned untill the special conference in August. 

From this Conference till Friday April 23d I spent the time at home doing my spring work & 
preparing to go on our Journey to the South. On this day April 23d I left the City of the great Salt 
Lake & rode to dry Creek in Utah through a snow Storm & spent the night in company with 
Brother Nobles on the Bank of the Creek. 30 miles. 

The object of this Journey was to accompany the presidency to visit the Southern settlements & 
explore as far as we had an opportunity. 

24th We rode Held a meeting rode to Hobble Creek. Went forth in the dance with the Saints in 
that place. Distance of the day 25 miles. 

25 Sunday We held a meeting at the school House. The people were Addressed by O Pratt. Was 
followed By B Young H C Kimball. Much good instruction was given. At the Close of the 
meeting we rode to Potetenere & camped for the night. 12 miles. 

26th We rode to salt creek & spent the night & president Young Preached to the people in the 
school House. 

27th We rode through salt Creek Canyon into Sanpitch valley to Canal Creek & camped for the 
night. 26 3/4 mils. 

28th Wednesday We rode to Manti City & spent the day. We held a meeting with the people. I 


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reported the sermon. We had a hard rainy night. Distance 10 miles. 

29th A Rainy morning. We spent the day in manti City. We held a meeting & the spirit of God 
was with him. 

30th We left manti City this morning & rode to sanpitch creek & nooned. We then rode to a 
small stream & Camped for the night. 


May 

May 1st Started before Breakfast & rode 8 miles & fed then went off the road & had to make a 
new road. Went to a Creek & camped for the night in a snow Storm. 

2d Rode to Ceder Springs & nooned then rode to Filmore City & spent the night. It was an 
exceding cold day with Frost. 

3d We held a meeting at Filmore City & President Young Preached to the people. I reported the 
sermon & have it in manuscript. We had a good time & the Lord Blessed us. 

4th 1 5 Mounted men Armed & equipt with provisions left us this morning to go on an exploring 
tour after led & silver. Brother Major our Artist took the likeness of an Indian Chief. 

[] 5th The Brethren overtook us this morning with the eastern mail. We had much rejoioeing with 
the much news we obtained. I received 3 letters from Willard Snow Mrs Woodruff. We drove to 
pine Creek & camped. 

6th We drove to Bever Creek & camped for the night. It was stormy. 

7th Left Bever Creek rode to little Salt Creek Valley passed Red Creek & drove into Parawan 
City. I Broke my double tree & tongue on our arival at this City we took up our abode among the 
Brethren. I stoped at Brother Groves. 

May 8th The people assembled to gether this morning for a meeting in the Counsel House. I took 
minutes of the same. 

9th Sunday Meeting at 10 oclok. O Pratt preached in the morning & Presidents Young & Kimball 
in the Afternoon. I reported their discourses. I spent the day with the Saints. 

10 We rode to Ceder City & held a meeting with the people. President Young Addressed the 
Saints. I reported the procedings of the meeting. Have the reports in manuscript. 

1 1th We Also held a meeting to day with the Saints. I Preached to the people. Was followed by O 
Pratt H. C. Kimball & President Young. The Iron Company was organized & many good remarks 
By President Young. We took a walk on the Hill in the evening & viewed the Country. We spent 
the night in the fort. 

May 12th The Rodeometer made the whole distance from Great Salt Lake City via Sanpete to 


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Ceder Fort 314 1/2 miles. 314 1/2 miles. 


^ We met to day to organize the High Counsel & presidency of the Stake &c at Paroan Having 
returned there this morning John L Smith was appointed President of the Stake John Steel 1st & 
Henry Lunt 2d Councellors. E H Groves M. Cruthers R. Harmons Joseph Chatterly, J Graham J. 
A Little Wm H Dame, John D. Lee, Samuel West, Elijah Newman Francis T Whitney & Joel H 
Johnson The High Counsel. Philip Chicken Smith Bishop of Cedar City Tarlton Lewis Bishop of 
Paroan. 

The above were ordained under the Hands of Elders O Pratt W Woodruff & G. A. Smith. 10 
High Priest 12 High Counsellots, 1 President & 2 Counsellots of this Stake of Zion. H. C. 
Kimball Adressed them. 

13th Left Parcan & rode to Bever kreek & spent the night. 35 mil. 

14th Rode to dry creek & nooned. Met with a Hard Hail Stonn. The ground was white with Hail. 
We Rode to Corn Creek & spent the night. 28 mile. 

15th Rode to Com Creek nooned then rode to Filmore City & spent the night. 33 1/4 mils. 

16th Sunday We spent the day in the Fort & held a meeting. O Pratt preached & W Woodruff 
followed Him. 

17th I Entered a city lot in Filmore City the Capitol to build a City inheritance or House. I Also 
got one Entered for G.A.S & O. Pratt. We left the city & rode to Cedar Spring nooned & rode to 
a cre[ek?] & spent the night. 32 m. 

18th Rode to Severe Ford, to Chicken Creek then to Salt Creek. 37 miles. 

19th Rode to summit Creek to spring Creek, then to Spanish Fork whare we spent the night. I 
have entered 160 Acres Here for a fann. 

20th We Rode to provo & through Utah valley to the foot of the mountain & camped. I left the 
Company Here & drove to dry creek & camped for the night. Distance 48 mils. 

2 1st I Rode from Dry Creek to the City of the great salt Lake. We were all made welcome to the 
city again. 

22 I worked in the Garden to day. 

23d Sunday I attended meeting to day in the Tabernacle. President Young Preached. I wrote it. 
24, 25, 26, 27, 28 I spent the time labouring. 

29 The Eastern Mail came in to day bringing many letters & paper. 

30^1 rote 3 letters to Col Kane Willard Snow & Bemhisel. We held a meeting at the Tabernacle. 


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1 reported. We had a prayer meeting in the evening. 

3 1st I spent the day in the garding. 

June 

June 1st I rode to Brother Simons & Back. 20 miles. 

2d I spent the day Hoing potatoes. 

3, 4, & 5 I spent the time gardning. 

6th Sunday I spent the time in meeting & reported preaching. 

7 to 121 spent the time watering land. 

131 spent the time in meeting Reporting. President Young Addressed the meeting. 

14 to 19th I spent the time at Hard work getting Hay. 

20th Sunday I spent the time in meeting Reporting. Meeting was Addressed By G A Smith O 
Pratt & B Young. 

21 to 25 I spent the time Haying & settleing accounts. ? Brother I F Carter Arived at my House 
early this Friday morning. 

26 I spent the day Haying. 

27th Sunday I attended meeting. Brother Richard Cook Addressed the Saints. I reported it. 
Brother Carter attended meeting with us. 

28 29 & 30 I spent most of the time with Brother I F Carter setling accounts. [_ On the eve of the 
30 of June 1852 I Baptized Brother Ilus F Carter into the Church of L.D.S. 

July 

July 1st Thursday I rode 6 miles with Brother Ilus F Carter & took the parting hand with him as 
He started for Calafornia. 

2 & 3d I spent the time geting Hay & in the garden. 

4th Sunday I Attended meeting. A Corden preached. Was followed By Joseph Young. 

July 5th Monday This day was spent in celebration / of the 4th of July. Govornor Young & 
Escort were escorted to the Tabernacle By the Mormon Battalion Silver Grays Horse Company 
&c. The day was spent making speeches singing prayer &c. 

6th We had a soaking rain. I spent the day Hoeing & in the House. 


Page9 1 




7, 8, 9, & 101 spent the time farming. 

1 1th Sunday I was at meeting. 

12 to 181 spent the week Haying the wheat that was broak down by a great Hail Stonn. 

18 Sunday I spent the time at meeting Reporting. C C Rich E Miller & others spoke. 

19 to 23 I spent the time Harvesting. 

24th j_ We held the Celebration of the Arival of the pioneers into this valley. It was a Splendid 
affair. See the report of it in the Deserett News. 

25 Sunday A sennon was delivered By Orson Pratt On the death & Resurrection of the j_ Heavens 
Earth & man. /I Baptized my daughter Susan C Woodruff & Mary Webster & Confirmed them./ 

26 27 & 28 Finished Harvesting. We had a meeting each evening at 6 oclok & Recieved good 
teachings from the presidency & others on building the public works. The Eastern mail came in 
on the eve of the 28. 1 was with the presidency & Twelve till midnight Hearing the News. 

29th Calafornia Mail came in this morning. I spent the forenoon in the presidents office geting 
News. I f wrote a long letter to I F Carter at Sacramento. 

30th Brother C C Rich left us for Sanbarnadeno to day at Presidents Young office Hearing the 
news. 

3 1st I spent the day at Home. 


August 

Aug 1st Sunday I attended meeting. President Young made some remarks & said I am willing 
you should be a Methodist a Catholic or an infidel but I am not willing you should steal from me 
or my Brethren or turn your cattle into my com or drive me from my house & home. But if my 
Enemies do it I will trust in God But if all the world fight against me I will not deny my religion 
or my God. 

In the evening Alfred Smith addressed the Saints advocating the claimes of Gladden Bishop who 
had tried for many years to gather a company together that He might lead them as many other 
foolish men & fals teachers have tried to do at different time. Much confusion rested upon Alfred 
Smith while speaking. He made many fals statements & at the close was followed By President 
Young. Made a few remark after which Alfred Smith & wife & another person who Joined them 
in their Sentiments were Cut off from the Church. 

Aug 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, & 7 I spent most of this week in drawing and stacking wheat. 

8 Sunday I spent the day at Meeting & reported President B Youngs discours. G D Watt 


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Reported the same as is published in Extra Deserett News Containing the new Revelation on 
Patriarchal Matrimony. 

9th I Cut a load of wood & drew it home. 

10 * In company with Samuel Hardy & Father Woodruff I went to Parley Canyon & caught 39 
Trout & camped for the night & cooked our fish. 

1 1 We took an Early Breakfast walked up into the canyon about 3 miles & fished down. We 
caught in all 203. We had to wallow all day through a hard thicket in order to keep by the creek. 

It made it vary hard labour. We went home quite weary. We had a hard thunder Storm in the 
canyon. 20. 

1 1th [sz'c] I spent the day at home. We had a Rain Stonn. 

12 13 & 14 I went to Cottonwood with Mrs Woodruff. Spent the time visiting friends & Hunting 
Cattle. 30 mils. 

15 Sunday I Attended meeting & Reported President Youngs sennon. One of the greatest ever 
preached. It is also published in the extra star. 

16 17 18 & 19 I went to Mill Creek Canyon each day & got a load of dry maple wood. Each day I 
had to travel some 34 miles Clime the mountain cut some 3/4 cord of wood and draged it down 
the mountain loaded it & went home through a vary bad Road. It nearly wore both myself & team 
out. 

20 I attended a great feast at the South Cottonwood ward. President Young was taken quite sick 
so he could not attend. Brother Kimball O Pratt & W Woodruff of the 12 were there & a great 
collection of people. Speaches were made By President Kimball O Pratt & W Woodruff of the 12 
& W W Phelps Bishop Hunter & others. 4 of the Twelve Arived from their mission in the City to 
day viz J Taylor E. T. Benson & E Snow & F Richards. 

21st Met in Council with the Presidency & 6 of the 12. It seemed good to see so many of the 12 
together again. We had a Social time to gether for several hours then dispersed to their homes. 

The Shoshonees or snake Indians came into the City to day to make peace with the Utahs & 
Walkers Company. They smoked the pipe of peace & shook hands in friendship & fellowship. 
They have been at war for many years but through the wise course of President Young they are 
brought to peace. 

22d Sunday Six of the Twelve were at meeting. We had a good time. The Twelve addressed the 
Assembly upon a variety of subjects. 

23, 24, 25, 26, 27 I spent the week at hard work & drawing wood. 

28 A Special Conference of the Church assembled this morning to appoint Elders to foreign 


Page93 




missions. 100 were appointed to Foreign Missions & to almost all the world. I took minutes of 
the conference. We had a good time. The Spirit & power of God rested with the people. 

29th Sunday The Conference closed this evening. 

30 I went to the Salt Lake. Took 2 of my children with me & I got 20 bushels of Salt. About 20 
tons was drawn from the Shore to day. Shoveled it up from the Shore. 

3 1st I went to the canyon to get some Lumber. 

September 


Sept 1st Cut up my corn in the field. 

2 I stacked up my corn. 

3d I spent the day at home choreing. 

Sept 4th I went to the canyons & got 2 loads of wood. I got a Horse off a Bridge. I got wet & 
Chilled. 

5th Sunday O Pratt Preached a strong & Edifying sermon. I was taken sick at night with the 
Chills & fever from getting wet on Saturday before. 

6th 1 was quite sick all day. 

7 I had a sick day. 

8 1 was about to day some better. 

9 I was quite sick to day. 

101 am some better to day. 

Ill Attended meeting with the 12 & Presidency to teach & Bless the Elders who were going on 
missions. I wrote the Blessings of 20 High Priest who were Blessed By the Twelve. 

Sept 12th Sunday 12th O Pratt Preached the Funeral sermon of Lorenzo D. Barnes & Wm Barton 
who had died in England & were buried there but their bodies were taken up & brought to the 
vally of the great Salt Lake & buried with dead Saints in this place. The follow is a synopsis of 
the discours: 

{LDB} {WB} Elder Orson Pratt arose & Said the subject before us this morning is one that fills 
my mind with many reflections. I think the Elders of this church & kingdom do not improve their 
time as they should but are to slow in treasure up knowledge as God has commanded us to do. 

We shall want all the knowledge we can obtain when we go to the nations of the Earth & visit 
evry circle of the learned to teach them the plan of Salvation. If we have improved our time we 
can bring forth out of the treasures of our hearts things new and old. 


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The subject before me to day is the Remains of Lorenzo D. Bames & Wm Barton. The question 
might arise what benefit could it be to these Brethren to be brought from their Graves in a foreign 
country & be buried with the saints here? I do not think it would be a great advantage to them in 
the Eternal world. I had as lieves be buried in Asia or Africa as with the Saints here as far as my 
Eternal interest is conserned. But aside from this it is a great pleasure both to the living & the 
dead to know that our bodies will be brought to Zion from the Ends of the Earth to be laid with 
the Saints & then to be raised with them so that He can strike hands with his relatives first & the 
with then Saints instead of being thousands of miles apart & having to waft himself thousands of 
miles through the air to meet with his brethren. 

An Immortal being can take himself up into the heavens as Jesus Christ did when he was raised 
from the dead. He went to heaven. So it might be with them. How long would it take for Brother 
Barnes & Barton to waft themselves to the bosom of the Church? Not long. Whare will be the 
bosom of the Church? In the clouds above the Earth. Before the wicked are destroyed the Lord 
will be in the Air & all the Saints with him of all generations and He will desend to earth & will 
bring all the Saints with him. 

At what speed would the Saints travel? We are told that light is the power that governs all things. 
If the Saints travel as fast as light they would go at the rate of 200,000 miles in a second. God can 
go as fast as light and He has made the Saints And 1 am led to conclude that they can travel as 
fast as light for they have got to go on missions to far distant worlds and if they did not go as fast 
as light they would be a long time on their way spending their time without doing any good. If 
this is the case 1 had as lieves lay my body down abroad as at home as it would not take more 
than a second to meet with the Saints. 1 say this to encourage the Elders who are going abroad. 
Some may die abroad. Some may Seal their testimony with their Blood. 

The Elders should take Heed & not break the commandments of God. If they were to commit 
Adultery After Receiving their Endowments they cannot be forgiven but must be destroyed in the 
flesh & his spirit given to the Buffiting of Satan untill the first Resurrection. How long it will be 
from the morning till evening 1 am not able to say but after the day of redemption He will come 
forth and inherit all the Blessings that were sealed upon his head. No power can take them from 
him If he has been sealed to any woman thrones powers Dominions or Kingdoms or any other 
Blessing. He will inherit them to all Eternity if they do not shed innocent Blood. 

The Scriptures speak of these same Subjects. Paul while speaking to the Corinthian Churches 
speaks of delivering a certain one to the Buffiting of Satan that they may be destroyed in the flesh 
that their spirits may be saved in the day of the Lord Jesus Christ. 

We will now speak of David who had a numerous family that was given him. He finally took 
Uriah wife put Uriah at the Head of the Battle & He was slain. Here He lost all right to the 
celestial Glory. His wives Thrones Kingdoms & Eternal lives. All had vanished. He Just escapes 
Hell & that is all. He will be a servant to somebody perhaps Uriah for the Gods in Eternity will 
want servants to greece their Carriages makes Crowns & Robes &c. They will be Gods & want 


Page95 




servants. All may be capaciated to become Gods but all will not keep the Laws whareby they 
may become Gods. 

Peter spoke of a people who had shed inocent Blood [-] the Blood of the Savior. They were told 
to repent that they might be saved in the day of the Lord Jesus Christ. There was a Chance for 
them as they did not know the Priesthood or the fulness of the gospel. If they had know it they 
would not have been forgiven. 

We will now speak of Brother Lorenzo D. Bames. He was faithful but died before He received 
the fulness of the gospel. He had no Thrones, wives or any thing els of that kind Sealed upon 
[him]. What shall we do for him? Any thing that we do for ourselves. When we get a temple built 
Such men will loose nothing for they will be Judged By the same laws that we are and they have 
a chance either in time or Eternity to Receive all we have. For all that would have received it here 
will receive it there. For all men will be Judged like men in the flesh for all mankind will have an 
Equal privilege. 

There cannot be any Baptism Endowments or Ordinances in the Spirit world performed but we 
shall be called to perform in a Temple of the Lord all the ordinances for the dead the same as for 
the living. All things will be sealed to the End of all things preparitory to the coming of the Lord 
Jesus Christ whether they Be appertaining to Thrones, kingdoms, families or anything Els 
pertaining to Earth or Heaven time or Eternity. 

When we fully consider our duty we shall not be at Ease in Zion or spend our time to make fanns 
& Houses orchards & vineyards for ourselves alone. But we should go to work to build up Zion 
& a Temple & do the great work of our God. Wo to them that are at ease in Zion but wake up & 
do the work of our God. 

Sept 13 I had a sick day but wrote of some Blessings. 

14 ^ I wrote A letter to J.M. Bernhisel & sent him $153.35 cts to be forwarded to Sanbon & 
Carter. 

15, 16, 17, & 181 was quite sick & confined to my bed with the Irricipilis. 

19th Sunday I was sick & not able to attend meeting. 

20, 21, 22, 23, 24, & 25 I was quite sick during the week Mrs Woodruff was quite sick Also our 
youngest Child Bulah was quite sick during the week Also Mrs Webster was taken vary sick. 

26th Sunday I am getting some better. Mrs Webster is growing worse. The rest of the family are 
geting better. I am not able to attend meeting. 

27th I am getting betting [ better ] but weak. Mrs Webster is dangerously sick. The rest of the 
family are feeble. 

28th The Mail came in today. I went to the office got some papers from J. M. Bernhisel & red the 


Page96 




news of the day. Not much of interest. Brother Joseph Russel of Marimichi has arived in the 
valley with his family. He has spent several days with me but has now rented some rooms of 
father Taylor. His Son Archibal Russel is sick with the consumption. Orson Hyde Has also arived 
in this city. 

29 ^ I wrote a letter to Thompson Woodruff & sent the New Revelation to Thompson & Ozem 
Woodruff. 1 paid 50 cts mail postage all up to this date. 

30th Mrs Webster is still failing. 1 spent the day at home. 

October 

Oct 1st & 2d Mrs Webster is constantly sinking. Mrs Woodruff is quite feeble. 

Oct 3d 11 Sunday Sister Mary Giles Meeks Webster died at 1 oclok P.M. this day. I sat by her 
at her last moments & closed her eyes. 

I attended prayer meeting with my quorum in the evening. 1 had not met with them for 3 weeks in 
consequence of sickness. 

4th 1 had sister Websters funeral attended at my house at 3 oclok. President Willard Richards also 
Erastus & Lorenzo Snow & F D Richards of the Twelve attended. Erastus Snow Baptized her 
Married her to Mr Webster And also preached her funeral sermon to day 1 buried her on my lot in 
the public burying ground. 

5th 1 spent the day at home. 

Oct 6th The General Conference of the Church of Jesus ? ^ Christ of Latter day Saints 
Commenced this day. They assembled in the new Tabernacle and preached the business of the 
day. 

7th 8 9 & 10 Conferece Continued untill Sunday night when it Closed. 1 attended all the time & 
reported all the discourses as they were delivered. It was a vary interesting Conference & a 
glorious time. The spirit & power of God rested upon the people & the Elders. 

On Sunday night I went with the Twelve to Bless the Elders who were going On foreign 
Missions & the Spirit of prophecy rested upon us while we laid Hands upon the Heads of the 
Elders & set them apart unto their several missions. 

II 12 13 & 141 spent the time at home in the garden & in the store &c. 

15th I spent the time in the council house with Brethren & other friends. I ordained 2 High Priest. 
We had a good day. 

\ 1 6 This was an interesting day. I met at the Counsel House A company of Elders & spent the 
whole day in teaching 44 Elders that were going on Foreign Mission to China Australia, Siam, 


Page97 




Hindustan, the Isles of the Sea. Brother Joseph Young & J M. Grant Assisted in Blessing the 
Elders. The spirit & power of God rested upon us in a great degree. The Heaven was opened unto 
us & our minds was fdled with visions Revelations & Prophecy & we sealed great Blessings 
upon their heads as we were moved upon by the Holy Ghost & we told them things that would 
befal them by sea & by land. They will do a great work & gather many saints & much wealth to 
Zion. 

17 Sunday I attended meeting. Several of the Elders spoke & I addressed them a while. 

18, 19, 20, 21, & 22 & 23 I spent this week at home. P. P. Pratt arived at home in the valley on 
the 21st. 

24th Sunday P P. Pratt & J Taylor Addressed the Saints to day. 

25 I spent the day at home. 

26th I Rode to Brother Thomas Kingtons 40 mils on webber. I was vary lame through the night. 

27 I started home with some Cattle. Was taken vary sick with the Diarea. Was vary sick all day & 
night. I spent the night at Brother Steads. 18 mis. 

28th I rode home to the Salt Lake City. I suffered all day immensly with the Bowel Complaint 
cramp &c. 14 mils. 

29th I spent the day at home writing. 

30th } I was introduced to the Secretary to day. He paid me $ 162 for my services in the 
Legislature last winter. I wrote 4 letters to day to Ezra Carter I. F. Carter J M Bernhisel & Mr 
Webster. I sent to Sanbon & Carter 


US Gold $1,387.50 

37 Sovreigns 164.90 

Order to J M Bernhisel 29 

Total $1,581.40 


3 1st Sunday P P Pratt preached in the fore noon & gave an account of his travels in South 
America & many things of interest. 


November 


Nov 1 2 & B I spent the time about home. 

4th I finished puting in 5 acres of wheat to day. It was windy. 

5 & 6 I finished diging potatoes to day & carried my tithing to the office. 22 1/2 bushels potatoes 

6 6 1/4 bushels Beets. 


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7th Sunday A cold Stormy day. O Hyde preached. I attended prayer meeting in the evening. 

8th to 12 I spent the time at home labouring. 

131 Rode to Cottonwood to J Benbows And spent the night at A O. Smoots. I was sick in the 
night. Sister Benbows was vary sick. 

14th I preached at the cottonwood school house. Was followed by Brothers Smoot & Wright. 
Took supper with Brother Smoot. Spent the night with Brother Benbow. 

151 drove my oxen to the Salt Lake City. 16 mils. 

16th I killed an Ox weighing 933 lbs. Had 81 lb [trid?] tallow. 

171 killed the other ox weighing 800 lb. 55 lb [trid?] tallow. 

18 19 20 I spent the time preparing lumber for a picket fence. 

21st Sunday P P Pratt Preached on the Everlasting \ Covenant made to Abraham. The law was 
done away in Christ But the promises of Abraham remained and all the prophesies of the 
prophets are to be fulfilled. The Jews gathered all Israel with their wives & Children would come 
from the East west North & South & sit down with Abraham Isaac & Jacob in the kingdom of 
God. 

The speaker then asked the question who are the people to build up the kingdom of God in the 
last days preparitory to the coming of Christ? Whose laws rules & regulations are agreable to the 
Blessings and order of the Ancient patriarchs? He called up the different sects & kingdoms & 
governments & compared them to see who was in a situation to receive [the promises] made to 
Abraham. He brought up the Catholics & showed that they were not the Ones for their Priesthood 
had not the privilege of Either wives or Children and the greatest Blessing to Abraham consisted 
in his seed & posterity. It could not be the protestants. They did allow one wife to be sure but no 
more. So when they come to the kingdom of God and find Abram Isaac & Jacob there with their 
many wives concubines & children they they the protestant Christian Nations if they had power 
would cast out those patriarchs out of the kingdom for having more wives than one & concubines 
& many children & for having the Names of which they would Call their Bastard children written 
on the Gates of the New Jerrusalem. They would point the finger of scorn at these things so they 
would not agree. 

But when we come to the Latter Day Saints we find them the ownly people on Earth that suit the 
case exactly in evry respect and they are the kingdom of God & hold the keys of the kingdom & 
they fell disposed to honor & respect their Father Abraham & their Children & desire to render 
unto Israel all that belongs unto them. 

He was followed By O Hyde & W. Woodruff who bore testimony to the same subject & 
expressed their feelings plainly. 


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22d We had a tremendious Snow Storm. 

23d The Roads are Blocked up with Snow. Bulah was taken quite sick to day. 

24 Bulah is vary sick to day. 

25 Our child grows worse. 

26 & 27 Our child is getting better. Mrs Woodruff has been on a visit to Brother Benbows as his 
wife was vary sick. 

28 Sunday The roads are vary bad. I drove to cottonwood after Mrs Woodruff but she started for 
home & arived before me. 25 mils. 

29th & 30 I spent the time making fence. Vary stormy. 

December 

Dec 1, 2, 3, & 4 I spent the time making picket fence before my house. It is vary stonny weather. 
5th Sunday O Hyde Preached & I followed him. 

6, 7, 8, 9, 10 1 1 I spent this week making fence. 12 Sunday I spent the day at home writing. 

Dec 13 Monday The Legislative Assembly of the Territory * of Utah met this morning in the 
Counsel House at 10 oclok. The House was Organized by Appointing J M Grant Speaker & 
Thomas Bullock clerk. And the Counsel was Organzed By appointing Willard Richards President 
& James Furguson Clerk. W Woodruff E. T. Benson & Lorenzo Snow of the Twleve were 
members of the House, And O Hyde P P. Pratt G. A. Smith & F. D. Richards of the 12 in the 
Counsel. The members took seats permanantly. The two Houses met in Joint session at 2 oclok & 
the Govornor was Received with Honor & delivered his message to the assembly which was red 
By the clerk of the House. It was a message of great interest. 200 copies was ordered to be 
printed for the benefit of Both Houses & to be printed in the news for the benefit of the people. 

14th House met at 10 oclok & atten [ ]. 

15 16 171 spent the time in the Legislator. 

18th No siting of the Legislator. I spent the time at home. 

19th Sunday I spent the time at home writing. 

20, 21, 22, 23, 24 I spent the time in the Legislature. 

2 ^ Dec 22d Wednesday evening The quorum of the Twelve met In the upper Room of the 
Council House at 6 oclok. Here was Assembled together Eleven of the Twelve Apostles. All of 
the quorum were present Except Elder Orson Pratt (who had gone to Washington the seat of 


Page 100 




Government to preach Salvation & Eternal truth to Presidents Senators & Legislators that they 
might be left without Excuse). The meeting with Eleven of that quorum was A Blessing I never 
before enjoyed during my life. I never saw so many of the Twelve to gether at any one time. 

The Meeting opened by prayer By President Orson Hyde who is president of the Twelve 
Apostles. The names of the Twelve who were present were O Hyde P. P. Pratt W. Woodruff J. 
Talyor G. A Smith A Lyman C C. Rich E. T Benson L Snow E. Snow & F D Richards. 

President Orson Hyde made some appropriate Remarks upon the Rare & eventful occasion upon 
which we are now met. He offered up a fervent prayer & Thanksgiving to God for his blessings 
that Had been over us in our separation & in bringing us together & asked for all needful 
Blessings to qualify us for our futur labours untill we arive in the celestial kingdom of God. He 
then said He did not feel like making a long speech but merely interchanging our harty 
Congratulations in acknowledgeing the mercy & blessings of God. 

P. P. Pratt expressed his feelings And after happily refering to our vast separation & merciful 
reunion said this is the first opportunity we have had of being together as a quorum & feeling that 
each member has the most implicit confidence in evry member of the quorum of the Twelve & 
also in each member of the Presidency who presides over us. I feel as though the day is not far 
distant when men will stand among us in their Immorrtal Bodies holding the keys of death & 

Hell & that Brother Joseph would say if He was among us that we had suffered enough & that we 
should be numbered among his Jewels. He alluded to the great work we had to perfonn, the 
building of a Temple &c. 

W. Woodruff next spoke & expressed his feelings upon the subject of this meeting of the Twelve 
Apostles a Blessing which He never before enjoyed in his life, As He never had met with Eleven 
of the Twelve Apostles. He Considered there had never been but two Bodies of men since the 
days of Adam who had met under such peculiar & interesting circumstances & those were the 
Twelve Apostle with Jesus in Jerrusalem & the Twelve Apostle with Jesus in America. We know 
their History & work & we know our own & they are three events of great importance to the 
salvation of the world. 

He refered to the peculiar & striking fact that there had never been a death in the quorum of the 
Twelve Apostles except in the case of David W. Patten who fell a martyr to his religion by a 
special request which he made of the Lord that He might die that death. But the rest of the 
quorum of the Twelve have stood in the front of the battle & the danger for the last twenty years 
in the midst of mobs sickness & plagues & danger by sea & land but still they were preserved 
untill the present day in bloom & health. 

He refered to the great prosperity of the work of the Twelve Abroad among the nations & 
rejoiced that the Lord had preserved them to return from the fore Cornors of the Earth to again sit 
in counsel together in Zion. He had the most implicit confidence in each member of the quorum 
of the Twelve Apostles Also of the Presiden[t/cy?] who presided over us. Said President Young 
was a Father to the whole church. 


PagelOl 




Erastus Snow next spoke & said though He was one of the youngest of the quorum of the Twelve 
yet He had known the quorum from the begining when they were first together in his fathers 
House. He expressed his Joy in being with the quorum & his Entire confidence in each member 
of the quorum & in the Saints generally. Since his absence to Denmark He had felt & learned 
how to appreciate the society at home & the brethren & Anticipated much pleasure in the 
association of this present winter. Hoped our meetings might be freequent & that we might 
become much improved. 

President O Hyde Remarked that if we were at liberty to prop[hesy?] it is while we are to gether 
as we are moved upon by the Holy Ghost And if we dont fell to prophesy speak by faith & by 
faith it should be fulfilled. Expressed his unlimited confidence in evry member of the quorum & 
of the Presidency And Prophesied in the name of God that we should all meet & come forth in 
the morning of the first Resurrection & receive our crowns in the celestial kingdom. It was 
confirmed by a good Amen by all the quorum. 

John Taylor next spoke. Said He [was] glad to meet with the quorum. He refered to the changes 
taking place among the Nations of the Earth & he believed we were destined to soon hold a great 
influence among them. He had felt moved upon at times to offer some counsel to sir Robert Peel 
& Louis Napolian & such men & tell them that He could give them advice that would do them 
good. He believed the day near when the kings would seek counsel at our hands. In the begining 
the Elders went out & were weak & ignorant men. Now they are full of intelligence & the 
Nations of the Earth will feel their influence. When I am with this quorum I feel as though I was 
with the Gods. 

G A Smith Said He was delighted on the present occasion. He rejoiced to see the union of the 
quorum & their disposition to do right. We dont have to feel that one of the quorum like Lyman 
Wight is drawing off one way & John E. Page another & A Wm Smith Commiting iniquity & we 
have to sustain him against our feelings. I have the satisfaction of believeing that each member of 
the quorum is doing right & I rejoice that the quorum is able to publish the gospel in six different 
Languages & to gather the people to gerber. Hoped we should meet once a week & with the 
Presidency offer our prayers. He felt a proud satisfaction of being associated with 10 men which 
He believed to be the highest learned best Educated & possessed the most intelligence of any 
men on Earth. That our circumstances were such that we were oblieged to have the most 
knowledge whether we would or not. He believed the prophesies uttered this evening would be 
fulfilled to the uttermost. He Closed with his blessings upon us. 

A Lyman said He had so many things upon his mind that He knew not what point to speak from. 
He felt in his nature that He was made up in the work of the Lord. He could not embrace any 
interest any whare els ownly in this work. He has found out to his satisfaction what that love & 
affection for his brethren is that surpasses the love of women for he had a confidence in his 
quorum that was far greater than in his wives or Children for they have been brought up in the 
hard school of experience & have been tried in all things & proven to be true & I have been 


Page 102 




proven with them & I am wedded to my quorum with all my interest. I go when I am sent & 
come when I am called, & so expect to continue to do. My interest is inseparably connected with 
this kingdom & I trust ever will be through time & Eternity. 

C. C. Rich said those who had spoken met his feeling. He concured in them all. I am happy in the 
present meeting. I had a dream while on my way home. I thought the Ancients in their resurrected 
bodies were associating with us in this place. I have the most unbounded confidence not ownly in 
the quorum of the Twelve but also in the first Presidency. I hope the winter seasons may be 
profitable to us in our associations And that we may improve our time. 

E T Benson said He felt to concur in what had been said. I feel it to be a great Blessing to come 
to gether. We have been blessed according to the desire of our hearts. Before I Joined the Saints I 
felt as though I would give all I possessed if I could find a people who would do right & be led 
by the spirit & power of God & I could be associated with them. I now feel that I have found that 
people. I now feel associated with men with whom I could trust my Eternal interest. I could leave 
my family with them any length of time & find them all right on my return. I have the utmost 
Confidence in evry member of that quorum. 

There is nothing to be done but what we can do. Evry gift & qualifycation exhists in this quorum 
that there is in the church [viz?] we cannot be equal with the first Presidency & they must have 
all we have got or they could not preside over us. If the first Presidency were to be removed the 
quorum of the Twelve would have to preside & if they had not the fulness of the gifts they would 
not be fit to preside. I feel excedingly thankful to be associated with such men. I have not 
language to express my feelings. When I was first called to be an Apostle in this quorum I could 
not sleep for three days & nights. I feel now as though I could break a Nation to pieces. I felt 
renovated with the Holy Spirit while P P Pratt was speaking. No blessing is to great or to good 
for us & we shall possess them all. ^ Turn over 3 leaves. ]ET. Benson Continued from 6 pages 
Back. Ask whatsoever you will and it shall be ours. My love for the quorum of the Twelve 
Apostles & the First Presidency is far above the love of wom[e/a?]n. <You may take the most 
virtuous woman on earth into your bosom and there is something [-] in it.> There is not exhisting 
with the most virtuous man on Earth (while destitute of the priesthood & Holy Ghost) that spirit 
of life that there is with the servant of God. My ownly hope is with you. It is life when we met & 
life when we part. He closed with Thanksgiving & Blessing. 

Lorenzo Snow next followed & said He felt some as Amasa. Did know not whare to begin. He 
felt that his sentiments & feelings were Shadowed forth in his labours. I have great Joy in 
meeting with you & beholding your faces & contemplating the influence & power of this quorum 
& the greatness of their work. I anticipate much this winter in our meetings & in enjoying the 
blessings of God. I have rejoiced this night to hear the exhalted expressions of the quorum in 
rendering thanksgiving to God & not one word of complaint or hardships imprisionments or 
affliction of any kind but are filled with hidden Joy & pleasure. I feel determin to do all the work 
that is assigned me that I may be worthy of a place in this quorum. I felt thankful to hear the 
blessings pronounced upon us by our president. He Closed with Joy & Thanksgiving Note(2) 


Page 103 




W. Woodruff Addressed the quorum upon the importance of their writing, the importance of 
their keeping a private History of their lives labour & ministry, & also a Joint History of the 
Quorum of the Twelve Apostles. He said he had ever been inspired since He had been a member 
of the Church not ownly to write all of his own acts & life, but to write all the sermons teachings 
& prophesies of the prophet Joseph, president Brigham Young & counsel & of the Twelve 
Apostles as far as he was acquainted with their labour. He said each member of the quorum 
should keep an account of their missions works miracles & the blessings of God unto them, And 
that the history of the quorum of the Twelve could now be easily obtained but if we omitted it 
untill we were dead our friends could not get it correctly before the world. 

P. P Pratt spoke of the filling up of the quorum of the 12 in 1848 & of their Commencement of a 
record of the quorum & wishes it Continued. He said He did not know how far & minute we 
ought to be in writing a Journal but thinks we ought to record our official acts & considers it for 
our interest as well as duty thus to do. 

E. T. Benson Said that President Richards wished him to request the young members of this 
quorum to hand to him a short statement of their lives & ministry the time they received the 
gospel &c to go into the Church History. 

G A Smith W Woodruff & P P Pratt interchanged a few words upon the subject of Journal 
keeping &c. F D Richards next spoke & said He felt Highly to participate in the common Joy of 
the evening & felt it was an omin of the times, an Eventful Epok in the last dispensation to us & 
the world. I feel behind most of the quorum in not having the privilege of so much Counsel & 
teaching from Brother Joseph as they. When I Contemplate the future I feel that the field of our 
labour was equal to the Noblest amibition which man Could entertain both in this world & in the 
next. Felt his Joy tempered in the recollection [ ]. 

O. Hyde said while I have been listening I have had an unusual train of reflection. Of necessity 
we shall soon be called again to separate & the Kingdoms of this world must become the 
Kingdoms of our Lord & his Christ. We are trained in the school of experience. I may live to see 
you all in different parts of the Earth & while the kingdoms of the Earth are falling you will in 
many instances be enabled to stretch out your hands & give counsel & save many people & be 
enabled to rule governments & thus fulfill the prophesies, & many of thes things are not afar off. 
All is Eternity to us whether this or the other side of the veil. We are bom in Eternity & let us be 
whare we will, it will be our Calling to win souls to Christ. The Presidency are unwell or they 
would be here. 

I wish the Journals of the Twelve to be written up so they can be on hand when Needed to be 
published. I wish each one of the quorum [asked?] write as good an Epistle as they are capable of 
[them] & have then put in book form & send them forth unto the world. P P. Pratt Thinks the 
subject is abounding in us & we owe the world a testimony not as individuals but as a quorum of 
the Twelve Apostles & suggest that each contributes & write an Epistle & form the whole & 
compile & embody a Book to go forth with the signatures of all the quorum as the Combined 


Page 104 




History of all the 12 Apostles. 

G. A. Smith thinks it vary important that an Authentic History of each member should be 
preserved. 

W. Woodruff made mention of certain items which He considered necessary in the preservation 
of our History. He lamented that David W. Patten had not left any record of his life for He was a 
prophet & an Apostle & a mighty man. Many miracles were wrought by him in his ministry. He 
told a rich man in Tennessee who fought the work of God that He & his family should beg their 
bread. Robert C. Petty saw that same man cry at a blacksmith Shop because he could not get 
trusted to have his plough sharp [ene]d. * 

President Orson Hyde moved that Wilford Woodruff be the Clerk & historian of the Twelve 
Apostles. Carried unanimously. 

P P Pratt proposed a new Record & wished that the Narative of each of the quorum of the Twelve 
be first recorded in it begining with the president of the quorum & going through in rotation with 
each member as He stands in the quorum. 

W Woodruff says he is willing to serve the quorum as Historian as faithfully as He can, although 
it will be a heavy tax upon his time. 

E Snow enquires if this history contemplated is confined to the present quorum or of the 
members from the begining. P. P. Pratt thinks it should include the present quorum merely. E 
Snow would like to see included all that could be found of D W. Patten. C C Rich said He heard 
Brother Patten say the morning that He was martered that the Kingdom of God shall be 
delive[re]d or he should lay down his life. P P Pratt wished Brother Woodruff to leave all 
temporal business as much as possible & bring this history up. A Lyman says their is no date of 
his ordination. O Hyde proposed for the Twelve to meet with the Presidency & also to meet each 
week for mutual exchange of thought. Adjourned to meet one week from to night at this place. 

A Speech of P. P. Pratt in the Council Chamber of the Legislative Assembly. 


Council Chamber Wednesday Dec 18th 1852 10 oclok A.M. Councilor P. P. Pratt occupied the 
Chair in the absence of the president but resigned it to address the council. The Honorable 
Counselor Said Gentlemen, I resign my place to the Hon Councillor on my left & beg the 
privilege to express my views on government at some length. No merely human Government 
ever had the power to originate or esstablish A system of true religion but on the other hand a 
true religious system contains within itself the inherant and inalienable germs of all true 
Government. True religion has the right & the power to originate government & Laws for 
individuals Lamilies, Corporate Bodies, States, Nations, Empires, or worlds. A true systems of 
Religions Embraces all the real government that intelligent beings can need or reasonably desire 
in the Heavens or on the Earth. 


Page 105 




Mearly human government never Created a Prophet an Apostle an Eternal High Priest a God or 
A Son of God. On the other hand the Eternal Priesthood has Created worlds & peopled them with 
man & with all the vari[eties/ance?] of universal vegitable & animal resources. The Eternal 
priesthood has Elected ordained & anointed Kings & priests upon Our Earth & filled them with 
the spirit of wisdom knowledge power might majesty & dominion for the benefit instruction 
government, & exhaltation of the race of the nations of nations thus favored. 

All governments not growing out of the true system & authority of religion is a perversion a 
mockery a dark unwieldy mass without certainty, Stability or guarantee for evin peace safety or 
perpetuity. All such government is either founded in ignorance or self will wharein the people 
declair either in word or in act that God and Inspiration shall not controll them & that an Angel 
Prophet Apostle Priest or king Commissioned by him shall have no rule or have no sway in their 
National Councils. All such governments are either in open violation Rebellion against the 
powers that be or act wholey ignorant of the powers that have a right to be. 

I will illustrate this subject by refferance to the past. When man was first placed upon the Earth 
did He create governments or was governments /appointed/ given to him by the Election of God 
made manifest by Revelation? Did the lower Creation rise up & Elect Adam or dig God say Have 
thou dominion? From whence then was the first introduction of merely human government upon 
our Earth? 

The answer to this you will find in the words of God which He spake unto Moses on the mount 
as revealed in those days by our great Prophet & myrter informing us that Adam begat Sons & 
daughters who went out & peopled the land in pairs long before the birth of Cain & Abel. And 
when Adam taught them the word of the Lord & the principles of righteousness & true 
government Satan came also among them & said unto them believe it not And they believed not 
in the teaching of Adam But they believed Satan more than God or more than the ruler He had 
appointed. There then arose the foundation of self Government wi[thout God?] A government 
which was perpetual for many centuries and which finally filled the Earth with violence & 
corruption & was overthrown by the flood. 

Of those who survived the flood Noah was of course the lawful king Patriarch or ruler and after 
him the Election?] of God Continued through the loins of Shem down to Abraham. But in 
Abraham’s day according to his own writings lately taken from the tombs of ancient Thebees & 
translated and published by our great Prophet we find a man made government existing in Egypt 
under a race of Phariohs. This Egypt according to Abrahams account was first discoverd by 
Egyptus or Daughter of Ham who afterwards settled her sons in it & from whom sprang the race 
of Pharioh's & the Ancient Egyptians. The same authority also informs us that Ham & his race 
were cursed as it regards priesthood but blessed in matters pertaining to the fruits of the Earth & 
of wisdom. And that the Pharioh’s & their priests had not the priesthood although they pretended 
to have received it from Ham their progenitor. Hence we find a Government in Egypt of mere 
human origen and a priesthood and Religion by law Esstablished which worshiped several Gods 


Page 106 




among which was the crokadile & which sacrafized Human sacrafices upon the Alter of State. 
Hence the calling out of Abraham & the reesstablishing of a government of God to be 
perpetuated in his linage for Ever which linage is Elected to reign & rule & hold the keys of 
religion Priesthood Power & Government while the Earth Endures & in worlds without End. 

This government was perpetuated in the family of Isaac & Jacob & was exemplified in the person 
of Joseph who by the gift of Revelation became prime minister of Egypt & saved his Fathers 
house & the Nation from Death by famine. Here is an instance of A mere Human government 
yielding to be instructed & benefited by a Revelation & a prophet. Behold the result Descending 
the stream of time & traceing the fortunes of the chosen or Royal linage. 

We next find a Moses a man in whom was the spirit of true Religion. By this religion He 
overthrew the Egyptians deliverd the nation from Bondage led them forth to freedom & gave 
them laws. By this Religion his successor Joshua was also Elected & qualified through him by 
the laying on of hands. And by this religion were all the Judges Chosen & qualifyed to fill the 
Judiciary with equity & Justice. 

Now Mr President it is Clear that none of these glorious events were the result of popular 
Elections or of human institutions. God gave a system of Religion Embracing Inspiration visions 
Prophets & Priesthood & that Religion & those prophets & Revelations Created Nations 
Governments & Laws. Hence true government in all its Branches and Ramification is the 
legitimate result or production of true Religion. For instant the Prophet Samuel by virtue of his 
Religious gift had power to Elect by the word of God & to Anoint Saul to be king of Israel and 
by the same religious authority he had the right to reprove & even to reject that same king & to 
anoint & place upon the Throne a shepherd Boy called David in his stead. And when Samuel was 
dead & David was king of Israel Nathan another Prophet had power to reprove him for iniquity & 
to pass Judgment upon him for his sins. Again when Elijah had rebuked King Ahab & all his 
wicked rulers & adulterous Priests & had fled to the mountains because they rebelled & saught 
his life He was commanded to return and Anoint Jehu for King of Israel, Haziel for King of Syria 
& Elisha for Prophet in his Stead which He perfonned & was taken up. 

In all these things I see not a vestage of the trumpary of modem human institutions Either ol 
democracy whigery monarchy or Arisstocracy. I see nothing in fact but religion standing forth in 
its own native simplicity & clad in the panoply of its own legitemate heavenly powers giving 
government & Laws to Nations and appointing and Anointing majestrates kings & Judges to 
administer the same. 

But leaving for a moment the events of palestine I glance for a moment at Babylon whare sat 
Nebuchadnezzar in all the pride of self confidence & self government. This Monarch had denied 
the hand of God & imputed to himself the power & glory of Babylon and the magnitude & glory 
of his vast dominion. He had also Esstablished a Religion & Created it. By law at a given signal 
all persons /on pain of death/ were to bow down to his images & idols. But Daniel & his [— ] 
fellows were their with the true Religion Dreams interpetations, visions, prophesyings, and 


Page 107 




Miracles & the word of God Rebuking & punishing him soon converted him to the truth. He then 
published an Epistle to all Nations & Tongues under his dominions & in all languages the 
perpose of which was that God was a revealer of secrets a worker of signs & wonders & an 
originator & controler of political power & government. In Babylon it was soon conseded that 
the wisdom of one Revelator or Prophet was ten times more valuable than all the combined 
wisdom of its sages without this gift. Hence Daniel was wisely placed in power as president of 
the Presidents of more than a hundred provinces. This same Daniel by the word of the Lord 
afterwords reproved & Dethroned Belshazer and placed Cyrus the Mede upon the Throne of 
Babylon. This Monarch obeyed the word of the Lord so far as to restore the Jews & rebuild their 
City & Temple. 

So long as the Jews obeyed the voice of their Prophets they prospered & were free but loosing 
the spirit of prophesy & true religion they forfeited their institutions laws & doctrin. Hence John 
the Baptist & Jesus Christ found them in Bondage to a Government Called Rome. These Romans 
like the Greeks before them had manufactured their own Government & Religion & then 
enforced it upon others insomuch that the Jews themselves having lost the power of their own 
religion were oblieged to submit. John the Baptist & Jesus Christ reproved all the needless trash 
& powerless forms of Jewish sects & of Gentiles superstitions & restored to the world the gifts of 
prophesy visions Revelation & Miracles which would have broaken the human yoke 
reesstablished the independance of Israel & made Jerrusalem the perpetual seat of Government 
for all Nations. But they would not. Jesus Christ would have made their Temple a house of 
prayer for all Nations in all coming time. He would have placed theer the Eternal keys of 
priesthood power & Government & wisdom /* A page missed. Turn to the star./ * as Note(3) was 
is predicted by the Ancient Prophets. Though Heaven & Earth should be moved from their 
foundation Though the bright luminary of Day should refuse its light, the moon cease to fullfill 
its monthly ordinance and yonder Stars be hurled from their places spheres yet the Government 
the Nationality the priesthood the Oracles, the Religion, the Throne of Israel should never be 
removed, a man be wanting to fill that Throne or a priest to minister at the altar of her Holy 
Temple. All nations would have to Come to worship before the Lord and from this Center they 
would have drawn their light & power, Their Kings chosen & anointed and instructed by her 
Prophets & Apostles would have esstablished peace & Equity & Justice & truth in the Earth. In 
short there would have been One Lord & his name one in all the Earth. But the Jews rebelled 
against their King & prefered their own powerless forms of religion. Jesus & his Apostles on this 
account removed from their midst the Keys of Government & power & left them a prey to civil 
war pestilence & famine & to the Raviges of the Romans. After the overthrow of the Jews the 
Romans were suffered to imbrue their hands in the blood of Apostles Prophets & Saints till none 
[were] to remain who possessed the keys of religion and government. It was then the powers of 
darkness triumphed upon our Earth. Self constituted Government and human religions overran 
our Earth. Truth was banished & fled far away. Equity could not Enter. Justice was paralized & 
stood Aghast. Mercy retireing droped a tear of blood.) 

The Blackness of Darkness veiled the Earth in morning. Ages - Centuries - now fled - Politics 


Page 108 




-Laws - Religions have multiplied - Empires - Kingdoms - States - Republics have filled the 
world. But whare O whare! The Keys powers Religion knowledge or Government of God - Our 
puriton Fathers fled to the American Wilderness to rid themselves from the corruption of Ages. 
Their children made a Government wise & Free. But - Alas - The Priesthood -The Power -The 
Religion of Heaven had long since been lost to man - Prophets & Apostles were no more - Our 
Fathers knew this - And therefore as wise honest & consistent men they refrained from 
manufacturing a State Relgion. 

Again were the heavens opened. The Silence of Ages was broaken. The gloom of overhanging 
night was pierced with a ray from the worlds of Endless day. A celestial spark from the heavenly 
Altar was rekindled upon the Earth. The mystic veil was rent in twain. And the fogs & mysts of 
long Ages began to roll away as the gloom of a long night before the rising dawn. In the midst of 
the ownly great & free nation upon the Earth the God of Abraham Raised up a mighty Prophet 
gave him the ancient keys of Religion Government & power & Restored the Apostleship with its 
keys of Revelation vision & Prophecy, Through the administration of which the laws & 
government were restored to man & his Kingdom organized upon the Earth no more to be 
thrown down. People Mages-trates, Senators, Govornors, & States have opposed its progress 
with fire & sword & death but all in vain. It has waded through Calumny hate & oppression & 
blood & fire & martyrdom Till it organized itself amid the strong holds of these Eternal 
Mountains & Stood forth a Noble spectacle for the wonder & admiration of all Nations A 
Government created by Heaven preserved by the matchless power of the Almighty & led and 
instructed by Prophets & Apostles with the keys of Revelation. The United States were 
constrained to recognize & sustain that which no human power could subdue. Hence the 
Territorial Government of Utah. And Hence the local capacity in which we are now siting as 
Senators & Representitives to give Laws to a Territory. In our Local, political Capacity 
Executive, Legislative & Judicial we are limited to the geographical boundaries prescribed by the 
act of Congress. In this sens our Jurisdiction is bounded by Oregon On the North by Calafomia 
on the West By 37 of North Lat on the South And by the Snow clad sumits of the Backbone of 
our Continent On the East & thus confined in its immediate bearing to a Country not much larger 
than the British Isles. 

But the Eyes of the Nations are upon us. We are a City on a hill a candle on a Candlestick that 
cannot be hid. The great the noble of heart, the Enterprising, the oppressed of all Nations will 
flow to us as a Continues stream. Senators Govornors Kings & Rulers will Cast their Eyes to 
Utah & to her Prophets, Apostles, Revelations laws & institutions as a model a pattern in 
miniature for the renovation of the world. 

In Our Capacity as Prophets Apostles & Elders we have the keys of Authority to Organize & give 
form & Constitution to a thousand local governments like this. Yes Mr President it is our se[ j 
teach Judges How to rule, To give Senators wisdom & to reprove instruct & impart wisdom to 
Presidents and Kings. It is ours to impart wisdom & knowledge & Strength & Salvation to the 
Rulers & people of the great Nation which gave us birth. 


Page 109 




Untill they know this & seek it at our hands they will never arise to any considerable degree of 
permanent prosperity & peace. But On the contrary vexation disunion perplexity division is their 
doom and Bloody wars & pestilence & Storms & fires & whirlwinds & tempest Earthquakes & 
famines will continue to waste them till they shall be constrained to acknowledge the hand of 
God & to humble themselves as in the dust & seek wisdom & instruction at the hand of prophets 
& Apostles as did Kings & rulers in days of Old, untill like Nebuchadnezzar they shall 
acknowledge that God is a Revelator a worker of Signs & wonders and an Originator & 
Controllor of political Governments. 

Yes, Mr President Our Nation & the world shall be taught by the prophets & all Nations feel the 
influence of the Institutions now being developed in these Halls of liberty the chambers of the 
Eternal Mountains of Deserett. Let the United States go on in their curse own Strength without 
the inspiration & institutions of the Almighty now offered them by our Prophets. Let them spread 
abroad their dominions on evry side. Let the principles of Conquest or of annexation add the 
Canadis British America and even Greenland on the North, Spanish & Portugue America to Cape 
hom on the South. The west Indies on the East & the Isles of the Pacific including Japan on the 
west. Let these countries be gathered under the wings of the wide spread Eagle & let them be 
peopled by the Enterprising of all Nations by Hundreds of Millions. Let their rich & almost 
boundless resources be developed by all these & still remain Ignorant & destitute of the keys of 
knowledge & power which lead & govern the destinies of Deseret or of Utah. Yet shall the 
Institutions of that same Utah or of her people outweigh all this have more present influence in 
the Destinies of the world, and abide & give Laws & Religion to Man when the best of mere 
human, Civil, Political, Moral, Social and Religious Institutions has sceased to be And its 
memory ownly shadowed forth in the dim History of the past. 

Dec 23, 24, 25 I spent the time in the Legislature. On Christmas the 25 I attended the dedication 
of the school House in the 14 ward. 

26th Sunday I spent the time at home writing. 

27, 28, 29, 30 I spent the time in the Legislature. 

3 1 } I wrote a letter to I F Carter & sent him an account of the money I had sent him. It went via 
Calafomia. 

The quorum of the Twelve met on the 29th Dec & spent the evening in conversation about laying 
some plan to liberate ourselves & families so we can be foot loose & go & preach the gospel & 
leave a support for ourselves & families. Speeches were made by all the quorum present upon the 
subject. 

On the next Sunday Jan 2d 1853 President Brigham Young & H. C. Kimbal met with the quorum 
of the Twelve & the same subject was brought up & talked over & President Young said the best 
way for the Twelve to get a living for themselves & families was to preach the gospel with all 


Pagel 10 




their might & your means will Come in your way. 

T. B Marsh once said He did not know what Joseph Called the Twelve for without it was to 
abuse them. I told him if the Twelve were faithful they would soon see the day that they would 
have all the influence they could wield. That day has come. He said laying plans in our present 
situation for perpetuity was all a shadow. We may lay plans but they may be frustrated. 

On the last day of Dec 1852 I looked over my Journal & recorded on the following page the 
result of my Labour &c: 

{WW= = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = 

{WW= = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = 

I travled with President Brigham Young Heber C. Kimball And a large Company of Elders 
through the Southern part of Utah Territory visiting the cities, villages & settlements on the way 
teaching & instructing the people as far south as parawan & Cedar cities. 


Travled 

876 Miles 

I Attended Public meetings 
I Baptized a daughter, wife & Brother 

45 Meetings 

in Law 

3 Baptized 

I Confirmed 

3 Persons 

I Ordained 12 High Council 

12 H. C. 

I Ordained 12 High Priest 

12 H. P. 

I Ordained 2 Elders 

2 Elders 

I Ordained 1 President & 

3 Stake 

2 Councellors 

I Blessed 45 Missionaries sent to all 

of Zion 

the world 

45 Blessed 

I spent 13 days in General Conferences 

3 Conferences 


& reported & recorded the doings 
of the same 

I attended 14 Councils with the presidency & Twelve 
I Recorded 6 sermons & 20 Blessings of Missionaries 
I wrote 2 1 Letters 2 1 Letters 

(I Received 8 letters) 

I attended 30 Prayer meetings with presidency & 12 
I was Elected a member of the Legislature of the 

Territory of Utah and spent 50 days in the Assembly. 

I was Appointed Clerk & Historian Lor the quorum of the Twelve Apostles 
I married three Couple 3 Married 

= = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = =WW} 
= = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = =WW} 

Pagel 1 1 




{========================= 

Wilford Woodruffs Journal for 1853 

* 


} 


January 

JAN 1st 1853 The commencement of a new year in the midst of a New Era. O how time flies. 
And how great, how important how magnificent, And how mighty are the Events bom on its 
wings. It is the opening of a dispensation that swallows up all other dispensations since the world 
began. The deeds of the last thousand years sink into insignifficans in comparrison to the work of 
a year at the present time. The Heavens gaze upon the scenes as they pass with deep interest 
while the whole Earth beholds the scenes in wonder & am[azement?]. 

The ancients Prophets saw by vision & revelation the scenes which were to follow each other in 
quick succession in this age in the esstablishment of the great Kingdom of our God to be thrown 
down no more forever. The little Stone cut out of the mountain without hands that was to roll 
forth untill it became a mountain & filled the whole Earth & broke in peaces & subdued all other 
kingdoms & was to Stand forever as seen by the prophet Daniel has commenced its work. That 
Church & Kingdom of God is now on the Earth & is being Esstablished which must endure & 
the world are gazing upon it. It is now located in these vallies of the mountains like a City set 
upon a hill which cannot be hid. 

[The?] first Prophet & founder has laid down his life in its defence. He has been martered, & his 
blood is crying from the ground for vengance upon a great Nation. Many others have fallen a 
martyr to the truth & the gospel of Jesus Christ since the organization of this Church in A.D. 

1830 & many others may. Yet the Church is bound to arise & prosper untill the Zion & Kingdom 
of our God shall stand forth in bold relief containing all that power, strength, might, majesty & 
dominion which God has decreed concerning her & been spoken through the mouths of his Holy 
Prophets since the world began. This Church & Kingdom has continued steadily to arise since its 
first organization amid oppostion, oppression, persecution, & martyrdom untill it has become 
esstablished in the midst of the everlasting hills & mountains not ownly gaining strength in 
church but also in state. Ephraims Nobles are of himself & his Govomor has procedid out of the 
midst of him. 

And while truth inspires my heart shall I fear to write it? Shall I fear that the present or future 
Generations shall read those truths which are burning in my breast enkindled by the Holy Alters 
of Heaven? No God forbid. For the voice of truth whispers to me that Our Govornors Presidents 
& Senators now arising out of the Kingdom of God will be inspired to take bold measures, to 
perfonn daring acts, rise up in their strength & power & stregth [stretch] forth their strong arms 


Pagel 12 




& save from annihilation that Holy instrument the Constitution of the united States, which the 
American People are about to sell for a mess of potage & trying to consine it to the grave. Their 
is a power who has decreed that liberty freedom & the rights of the Righteous & the meeke of the 
Earth shall not wholey die & that power is God. And He has decreed to inspire & nerve up the 
Soul the sinew & the Arm of his Govornors Senators & prophets & Arm them for the contest, 
and defend them in their warfare. That Nation or kingdom or Tongue or people, from this time 
forth who shall rise up against Zion & the church & Kingdom of God to oppress her, They shall 
be visited by the Judgments of the Most High. They shall be overthrown & brought to desolation 
& may God spedily Hasten it. May the Almighty begin this year to rend the kingdoms of this 
world with his Servants & continue it untill All nations shall acknowledge] their is a God in 
Israel. 

Jan 1st 1853 The quorum of the Twelve Apostles met at the Council House at 8 oclok being 
eleven in number the whole quorum except Elder Orson Pratt (who is at Washington preaching 
the gospel). The quorum marched to President Brigham Youngs & wished him a Happy New 
Year. President Young received them with Joy & gladness & after the greetings were over 
President Young Asked what he should treat them with. The sentiment was instanteneous in the 
hearts of all the quorum & spoken by president Orson Hyde. Treat us with your blessings. Then 
President Young blessed the quorum of the Twelve & said they always had his blessings. And 
the Twelve Apostles felt & realized that the blessings of the Presidency of the Church & 
Kingdom of God was of far more worth & benefit to them than any Earthly gift or the Treasures 
of the Earth. Their hearts were full of joy & gladness which was unspeakable at the blessing of 
once more having the privilege of returning from the four comers of the Earth & beholding each 
others faces & sitting in council together & meeting with the president & his Counsel & 
receiving blessings at their hands. The Twelve left their blessings upon President Young & his 
house. 

While the Twelve were paying their respects to President Young the band was playing a lively 
tune in front of the House. The quorum saluted the two bands with a Happy New Year & 
received in return some excellent music. 

The quorum then visited President Heber C Kimball & wished him a happy new Year. He also 
received the Twelve with Gladness & gave unto them his blessing, which was also highly prized. 
In his blessings unto them He said his faith & feelings were that no one of the present quorum of 
Apostles should ever fall & no power should ever take their Crown & Kingdom but they should 
come forth in the morning of the first Resurrection & be exhalted to glory immortality & Eternal 
lives, and their blessings should increase from this time henceforth & for ever & they should not 
want bread but they should have means to support themselves & families. My feelings have ever 
been good towards this quorum & ever will be. The Twelve left their blessings upon president 
Kimball & household. 

And [we] next visited Father John Smith the Aged Patriarch & wished him a happy New Year. 
He manifested much Joy & satisfaction in seeing Eleven of the Twelve Apostles beneath his 


Pagel 13 




roof. This venerable Patriarch also bestowed upon the Twelve his blessing, & said they should 
live to see the Kingdom of God /& Zion 1 esstablished to be thrown down no more Forever & that 
none of them should ever fall but should have part in the first resurrection, no power should take 
their crown but they should be blessed in all their labours in the Earth & that the blessings of God 
should increase upon them from this time forth both temporal & Spiritual. The Apostles also left 
their blessings upon the Patriarch & his household. 

They next visited President Willard Richards. He also Received them with gladness & an open 
hart. They wished him a Happy new year. He also gave the Twelve his blessing. He believed this 
is a begining of an Eventful year in the History of this Church & kingdom on the Earth & he 
believed each succeeding year would be more & more so untill the coming of the Son of man. He 
said the Twelve were ever before him in his thoughts prayer & blessings notwithstanding they 
might be scattered to the fore cornors of the Earth. They were men of God & were destined to 
perfonn a great & mighty work in the Earth & they should live till they were satisfyed with life. 
They should see light & truth prevail over sin tradition & Error & triumph in the Earth. 

The Twelve next went to the house of Elder P P Pratt & there united with his family in singing 
the return of the Twelve & other songs of Zion. 

The spirit & power of God rested upon the quorum of the Twelve while their hearts were filled 
with praise & thanksgiving to God in all their visits on this new year of 1853. The bands also 
continued their salutations to Presidents Kimball Richards & Patriarch Smith & many others in 
various parts of the City & their enlivening music was evry whare received with open ears & 
Harts of Joy. God bless the bands. 

During the evening the quorum of the Twelve with the Presidency with about 200 Latter Day 
Saints met with their families at the Social Hall & dedicated it for the purpose for which it was 
built, after which they went forth in the dance & all seemed to enjoy themselves well. 

Jan 2d Sunday I attended meeting. Brother Joseph Toronto Preached & gave an account of his 
Travels through Italy & the dangers he run in Preaching the gospel to his native country. He was 
among the wald[enses?]. He spoke of the hard labour they had to Endure in order to get a living 
that they not ownly backed up their hay & wood upon their back but also the Earth to make 
gardins to raise their vegitables. His account of his ministry was quite interesting. He was 
followed by a sailor who baptized Brother Toronto in the commencement. The Presidency & 
Twelve met in counsel at 3 oclok & we had a good time. 

23456 7, 81 spent the time in the Legislature. 

9th Sunday I attended meeting. Brother P. P. Pratt Addressed the assembly in an interesting 
manner upon some interesting subjects. He was followed by Brother Groward who gave an 
interesting account of his mission on the western Islands. He gave a description of his travels 
among the natives his sufferings among them [and] opposition by the French Government. He 
was 9 years on his mission & several years without Hearing any thing from the church. His 


Pagel 14 




mental sufferings was vary great. The first infonnation He did obtain upon the subject was from 
a letter which I wrote him & that He did not obtain untill two years after it was written. He made 
many interesting remarks concerning the Customs of that people. 

During the Afternoon I attended meeting for prayer with the Presidency & Twelve. 

10, 11, 12, 13, & 14 I spent this week in the Legislator. 

15*1 spent this day in reading the Official Report of capt Howard Startsbury capt of Corps of 
Tipographical Ingeneer of the survey of the Great Salt Lake. It was truly an interesting work. He 
has given a true correct Just & impartial account of President Brigham Young & the Saints over 
whom He presides in the great Basin of North America. 

16th Sunday I attended [meeting], C. C. Rich Preached & said that He was seeking salvation. 
This was his object & chief persuit in life & the people would have Zion as soon as they learned 
to do & act [right] & if all the people were righteous & did right they would have Zion & the 
millinum would commence. He made many good remarks upon the subject & his exortation was 
good. 

President Brigham Young followed him & remarked that the whole human family were seeking 
salvation as they suppose but all in their own way. But many men could not comprehend the 
truth. Many Phylosiphers Could believe & comprehend that matter was Eternal but Could not 
Comprehend that God was Eternal or never had a begining. But I can. Brother Rich remark[s 
about?] Zion are Correct. I have had Zion with me ever since I have been in the Church. I have it 
all the time & thousands of others have it but many do not. What is the matter? They receive the 
gospel because it is almighty because they see that it will prevail & be upper most. They receive 
the truth but do not receive the love of it & hence they fall out by the way & if you want to know 
[who] receives the truth but not the love of it see who falls out by the way. Some who are in the 
Church sware take the name of God in vain. They say they will be dammed if they do this or that. 
So they will be. They are Damned already. Now is the time to get your salvation & exhaltation. It 
has to be done here. Your words thought acts & deeds are daily either Exhalting or debasing you. 
If you are not geting your exhaltation here you will not get it hereafter. Then try to improve your 
time here & get salvation daily. If you pay strict attention to yourselves in all things you will not 
have much time to attend to the faults of your neighbors. 

Met in the evening for prayer. 

17, 18 19 20 I spent the time in the Legislature. 

19th I maried Edward Allen & Mary Ann Wright today. 

21st * Our Legislature Closed this night. It sat till a vary late hour. Both houses sat in Joint 
session with the govornor & they closed with the best of feelings on all sides. Speeches were 
made by the members speaker President & Govornor. 


Pagel 15 




The Govornor said in refference to diversion that He never wished to see any sport made of any 
roans religion or the name of God or the Savior named in sport. It always grieved him to hear it 
& he did not wish to have any of his friends call for any play or scenery whare he was present 
that would call forth any thing of the kind. 

Many good remarks were made by all who spoke. The clerk of the House said that He had never 
called during the session but what there was a quorum present. The Roll & the speker had never 
had an occasion to call any m[eeting?] to order neither had one member ever called another to 
order. 

22d I spent the day at home. Was quite unwell. 

23d Sunday I attended meeting. Elder O Hyde preached. Said we should acknowledge the hand 
of God in all things. Refered to Martin Luther the refermation &c & said the hand of God was in 
it & that He had inspired Columbus & many men to perform certain works & who knows but 
what he inspired Mohammad to cause the people to acknowledge one God & one prophet. Martin 
Luther with others created a great Change in his day from Popary to more freedom of conscience 
in religious & political matters & the way has been prepared in process of time so the kingdom of 
God has been esstablished & so with all the events of the present day steem power, Rail Roads 
Telegraph lines, & all the Revolutions of the present Nations. May we not acknowledge the hand 
of God in them all as bringing to pass the purposes of the Lord? The Lord says he is angry with 
none exsept those who do not acknowledge his hand in all things. 

No man can find out God. We shall not know as much as God for then there would be two 
Competitors on the Throne. We may see the day when we shall know as much as God does now 
but then He will know as much more at that time than we as he does now. If we do wrong we 
shall be chastized for it. If we do well we shall have our reward for that. 

P P Pratt followed & said how could doors be open in China & other parts of the world if God 
had not moved upon some of the Nations to cause a change among the nations & to have the 
bible printed in the different languages so the people could have the scriptures to read. After men 
have published the bible & got $50,000 dollars for the same if they wont receive the fullness of 
the gospel when they hear it the Lord can say to them you are well paid for what you have done 
& if you wont do any more go your way. I will raise up somebody else so dont you complain as 
you have got your pay. I fell thankful for a few truths that are about in the world as it prepares the 
way for many more. 

Brother A Lyman followed & said He was glad to hear what had been said. He felt to 
acknowledge the hand of God in all things. Many might say we would have bettered our 
condition if we had gone to Calafomia but if you had gone there you would have gone whare the 
devil would have had a chance to have spewed his filth over you for it would have been like 
going into the midst of hell. Some complain about these Hills, deserts & mountains. It is in 
consequence of these things that we are here. If we were in a desireable spot whare the gentiles 


Pagel 16 




would wish to occupy it we would have trouble from them & these are some of the things we 
ought to be thankful for. These persons that would be discontented with this people would be 
discontented in paradise & they might have the making of it themselves. It would add much to 
the happiness of mankind if they would be submissive to those powers which they cannot 
Controll but which ought to controll them. 

I met in councel with the Presidency & Twelve in the Afternoon for prayer. I Attended meeting 
in the evening in 14th ward school house & preached to the people. 

24th I spent the day at home. 

25th I spent the time at home. Mrs Woodruff was sick during the night. 

26 {Aphek} Mrs Woodruff was deliverd of a Son this morning at 1 oclock which died at 3 
oclock living but 2 Hours. I named it Aphek & blessed it before it died. I buried it during the day 
in my garden. I felt it to be quite a loss to us. 

27th [] President Young appointed a party for the Presidency & Twelve & some other friends. I 
attended at the social Hall. A good feast was prepared & all enjoyed themselves well. 

28th Mrs Woodruff is quite poorly to day. I spent the day at home. 

29th } I wrote a letter to I F Carter to day. Mrs Woodruff is still quite poorly. 

Jan 30th Sunday P. P. Pratt preached. His Subject was the Kingdom of God which was to be set 
up in the last days. He said if we were to take the present order rules & regulations of either the 
Jews Gentiles Christian or pagan as a standard to set up as the pattern for the great Kingdom of 
our God of which the prophets had spoken their was none of them which would fit compare or 
answer the purpose at all for the last dispensation. When did we ever see a generation or any 
Nation make their own prophets & Apostles to get Revelation & do the work of God? In order to 
set up a kingdom & government in the last days to gather the 10 Tribes of Israel the Jews & 
gentiles & all Nations Break down the Roman power build up esstablish Zion & maintain it, it 
must be somthing different from any Human government or device of man. It must originate 
from the heavens be governed & controlled by the God of heaven led by inspiration & Revelation 
in all of its undertakings & it must contain within itself all the blessings & covenants which God 
made to Abraham concerning his seed & posterity. 

This Kingdom is here in the valley of the mountains. It has been esstablished by the hand of God 
and it embraces all that God has promised, or that is necessary to perfect the great work or all that 
Jew or Gentile Can look for. It embraces the whole of the New & everlasting Covenant the 
fulness of the gospel with all the power & Authority of the same the Keys of the Kingdom the 
Endowments sealing powers the patriarchal Matrimony & the foundation laid for gathering all 
Israel. 

The Ancient deciples & Apostles did not set up this Kingdom as some have supposed. When 


Pagel 17 




they inquired of Jesus if he would at that time restore again the Kingdom to Israel Jesus informed 
them that it was not given to them to know (eve[r/n?]) the times & seasons which the Lord had 
reserved unto himself when he would set up the Kingdom. So they were not permitted to know 
the time much less to perform the work. They asked the Savior what they should do then. He told 
them they should bear witness of his name before both Jew & gentile & for this same testimony 
they would have to lay down their lives. The Kingdom of God was set up in their day but the 
people would not permit it to remain long among [them] for they killed the prophets, Apostles, & 
Elders who preached the gospel of the Kingdom of God And the priesthood & Kingdom of God 
was taken from them & they have fallen into darkness & Error. 

But now the Kingdom of God is set up for the last time to again restore Israel & you cannot force 
Israel even by the sword to receive a Kingdom & Laws & acknowledge the great standard which 
is to be set up in the last days for the governing gathering & controlling of all Israel except it is 
right & according to the promises made to the Fathers & this Kingdom of God when it was to 
appear was to be like a mustard seed. It was to be the least of all herbs but was to grow untill the 
fowls of heaven lodged in the branches thereoff. 

Should we attempt to take any of the Kingdoms of the world as this great standard out of which 
to build the Kingdom of God? It would not compare at all with the parable given. But when we 
take the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints it does compare in evry respect & contains 
within itself evry thing that is promised in the great standard that was to be set up in the last days. 
It is no matter what this is called at the present time a church a rebublic or a Kingdom. The 
Kingdom is certainly here & in vary deed. It has commenced like a mustard seed vary small but 
as the seed gathers its mosture from the Earth which causes it to spring forth & take root so will 
this Kingdom continue to gather the good from all Nations untill it becomes the greatest of All 
Kingdoms under Heaven & untill the Kingdoms of this world become the Kingdom of our God 
& his Christ. The signs of this Kingdom are appearing in the heavens & the Earth that was 
spoken off by Christ & the Apostle & why should not the Kingdom appear? 

Some may say I have been Baptized Joined the Church am in the Kingdom Now why may not I 
go to Calafornia & get gold & take all the comfort I can in this world? Well if one part of the 
Kingdom of God have a right to go the whole have & scatter abroad. Then whare is your 
Kingdom & gathering? We are now in as good a place as we can get in. If we were to go to 
calafornia we would be whare we would be in the midst of the scum of Hell. If we should go to 
Cal or New Orlens because we could get sugar for 3 cts whare would the work of the Kingdom 
of God be? My views are that when we are gathered we keep so & build up Temples give 
Endowments to the living & dead except as we go on missions abroad in the world as the Angels 
would go to hell on a mission & [be] glad to return as soon as they got through. If you want gold 
build up the Kingdom of God make Zion a city on a hill that cannot be hid & carry out the 
purposes of the Lord & then gold will flow in unto you from all Nations. Your Presidency & 
Apostles will then hardly have time to go out of the Temple to get their breakfast instead of 
runing about to know how to get their [land/field?] ploughed so as to raise bread to eat & while 


Pagel 18 




all Nations are b[reak?]ing up the rich among them will invest their wealth among the institution 
of Zion & not trust it among any the sinking Nations & those that wished to save their lives will 
flee to Zion for safety for they will be the ownly people that will not be at war one with another. 
Many other Edifying remarks were made by the speaker. 

Elder Amasa Lyman followed & said that the members of this Kingdom possessed that faith & 
knowledge that if all the world would say they did not believe it it would not make any difference 
with them for they know of its truths. The sectarian world can write & say many putty things but 
why do they not carry them into practice? The main difficulty is their is no nucleus around which 
to gather in order to practice what they preach. But we believe that when God said he would set 
up a kingdom which should break in peaces all other Kingdoms & stand forever that He will 
perfonn what He has spoken. The Lord has said that that Nation that fought against Zion should 
be broaken in peaces & utterly wasted away & while the Elders are gathering the Saints from all 
Nations & Kingdoms & will continue untill the windingup scene we can make some Calculation 
what Zion is destined to be. Many other remarks were made by Brother Lyman. 

I attended prayer meeting with the Presidency & Twelve in the Afternoon & I preached in the 
evening to a full House in the 14th ward school House. I also spoke upon the kingdom of God. 
Said that none of the words of the Lord spoken would return unto him void but would 
accomplish all that he had declaired. That the Elders were gaining more strength & confidence & 
power in declairing the Kingdom of God to the world. I confirmed one member of the Church. 

3 1st I spent the time at home writing. 


February 

Feb 1st I spent the day writing. We had a hard Snow Storm at night. 

2d } I wrote a Letter to Benjamin Baker. 

3, 4, 5 I spent the time writing my byography. 

6th Sunday I attended meeting. Elder Lorenzo Snow preached. He spoke vary well. Exhorted the 
saints to faithfulness the young men to study the different languages that they might be useful 
among the Nations. He exhorted the saints that was expecting to stay in the valley to do all they 
could to forward the work of God. He said if any of the brethren wanted to be marterd or lay 
down their lives for Christ sake they can have a [hand?] by going to Europe or some of those 
foreign Nations. He said that after the Danish Government had banished the American Elders 
from the Kingdom that the native brethren said to the policee the seed is sown the truth is here it 
is in our hearts & we are here ourselves & shall defend the truth. Many interesting remarks were 
maid by Brother Snow. 

President B Young followed & said the organization of man is one of the deepest subjects that 
the philosopher of the day attempt to investigate]. The mystery of man in his organization has 
been a study for ages. It has been a mystery but it is because of ignorance. Their is no such thing 


Pagel 19 




as mystery or miracle ownly to the ignorant. [To] Any intelligent being that knows the caus & 
effect of things it is no myracle or mystery. It is our privilege to asspire after that knowledge that 
the greatest intelligence possesses. We should take that Course that we may ever increase in 
knowledge. Then we are sure of exhaltation. 

Why I make mention of this thing is because I look upon this people who are now before me. I 
am like the rest of you that when the light of truth shines upon me my mind enlightened and I am 
asstonished to look at the world of mankind. Their actions are like little Children. You look at 
your Children about the House & you will see a perfect pattern of the world. The children will 
fight & cry about & after evry thing that they ought not to have. They want a looking glass 
hammer razor & many things that they would injure themselves & are not old enough to handle. 
So it is with all the world. If they had all their desires granted them they would leep deaches, 
fences, Hedges & gutters & go to hell across lots & never wait to take the road. Even old men 
like Children will ask for things they cannot use and I can see the same in this Church. Many of 
the people ask for things they Cannot Handle. I see it evry day. 

I wish to exhort the people Here to an item of our religion yet I am happy to say that the item that 
I am about to exhort you to the people generally are ready to carry out. Firstly I would say let us 
observe the mormon Creed. Let evry [one] mind their own business. Evry one has weeds enough 
in his own guarding to attend to without attending to the weeds in his Neighbors garden. For 
while you are attending to the weeds of your Neighbor those in your own will grow vary thick & 
tall & will finally spoil the good seed. 

I am asstonished that the people do not see that they can get along much better without doing evil 
than with. If a person does you an injury dont retaliate & you get a great advantage of the person 
doing the evil. If a person injures you do him good & you get the advantage of him & the victory. 

Follow the Counsel of Brother Snow and improve your time in Study & treasureing up 
knowledge. Children should have their times of recreations for if they are kept still from seeing 
& knowing any thing appertaining to amusments till they are 1 8 years of age when they do get 
out they will act vary wild. But let the children sow their wild oats do up the dancing & 
frolicking while young that when they get older they may read the Bible Book of Mormon & 
preach the gospel & do goog [good] on the Earth. I want to know all their is on Earth in Heaven 
& Hell so that no person shall know more than I do. But in obtaining this knowledge I do not 
wish to sin. Their is no need of sining. 

If the weather had been good I should have called upon the people to have commenced diging out 
the foundation of the Temple. I want to lay the comor stone of the Temple on the 6th day of next 
April if the Lord will. If you want to know what size I am calculating to build the Temple I will 
say I am expecting to break ground 150 feet by 220 And the foundation for the building to stand 
upon 20 feet deep & 20 feet wide & 10 feet high. The basement story will then commence on the 
top of the foundation & that will be 16 feet high 8 feet under ground & 8 feet above. Then the 
main building will commence on the top of the basement story. 


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What is there here in the valley that should hender this people from being Happy? I am happy 
because I do not fret about any thing that I cannot do. I wont fret about any thing. What Henders 
your praying & praising God? Nobody but your own selves. If you are seeking to weed your 
neighbors garden you will have business enough. But this is a Happy people. I wish they would 
prize their blessings. You have not got to mourn as did the Ancients because their children would 
Apostitise turn from God & be Cursed. Our Children will not Apostitize. They will not have time 
but will have all they can do to perform the work of God as it rolls upon them to prepare the 
kingdom for the coming of Christ gather up the Nations & c. Then be happy & do the things 
required of you. 

I attended the prayer meeting in the Afternoon And preached to the 14 ward school House in the 
evening to a crouded House. I took for my text the mormon creed mind your own Business. I told 
them what our own business was to preach the gospel to the Nations of the Earth gather Israel & 
build up Zion weed our own gardens & let our neighbors alone. Dont interfere with your 
neighbors affairs for that is his business & not ours. 

7th I walked to Snows herd ground & back. Distance of the day 20. 

8,91 spent the day at home writing. 

101 spent this day at home writing. 

Feb 1 1th * 0 This was a painful day. I was called at about 1 oclok this morning to administer to 
sister Rhodes who had been labouring in Child birth for two days. She was nearly worn out as 
she Could not be deliverd. Brother Franklin Richards with myself administered to her but she 
died at 2 oclock amid the greatest Agony. I closed her eyes. At 3 oclock PM. there was a Post 
Mortom examination made. The Presidency and several of the Twelve were present. The surgical 
operation was perfonned by Dr Andrews. And no blame was attached to the mid wives who 
officiated. <The following is the result of the examination: The child lay across the womb with 
own hand oblong, the head lay on the right side the feet on the left. The child had tom the womb 
to bits with his feet and the [afterbirth?] so if the child had been bom the woman could not live. 
The doctor gave the following instructing to the woman: If the child presents feet first put the 
hand into the womb and bring out the child feet first. And if the child's face is turned so the chin 
would hook under the [-] bone turn the child with the face towards the backbone. Then it can be 
born. If the child’s feet come doubled up put up the hand and bring down one limb at a time in 
the womb and turn the child. He said a [— ] should not be consulted at such times but the midwife 
should use her own judgements 

12 11 I Attended sister Rhodes funeral. The President Twelve & a large congregation of people 
assembled And President Young Preached & said that the few remarks I have to make I will 
endeavor to speak to the point. My text is it is better to go to the house of mourning than to the 
House of feasting for that is the end of all men & the living will lay it to heart. When we are in a 
situation so that we Cannot know any thing ownly what we know by the natural senses it causes 


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us to mourn the loss of friends. But if we could understand all things it would often times be a 
source of Joy instead of morning. 

When a spirit enters a tabernacle here in this life it enters into a state of sorrow. Yet if we 
understood things in their tru light we should be satisfyed with it. When the spirit enters the body 
it enters a dark sell and is left to sorrow & to be tried in all things. But when the spirit leaves the 
body if a saint it enters into the brilliant light and glory of God like taking a prisioner out of a 
dark sell whare He could see a little glimmer of light through the grates & put him into the blaze 
of the mid days sun. 

When we loose our Friends we mourn. But what is it that mourns? Is it that light truth and 
intelligence of the Almighty that is in man that mourns? No it is the grocer part of our being that 
mourns. Let a person be unclothed and we could see the spirit of our sister And all other friends 
& shake hands with them & spirit be tangible to each other as our bodies now are to each other. 
When I am filled with the spirit of God I can see men and what is in them. And the more we are 
refined in spirit the more we can see. The reason I cannot shake hands with Sister Rhodes is 
because of this gross body. 

Women were not made to die in child bed as sister Rhodes has done. But what is the matter? 
Death is here. It is death that has caused it. Death is in the land around us. It is here. Children die 
before they are born. This [is] because their is death around us. We cannot see it. We have the 
Head ake. We cannot see that (yet it exist) because we are in the body. But if we were out of the 
body we could se it. 

We should advance in the phylosophy of Eternal things and leam as we live when we go to the 
House of feasting we go to feast our bodies. When we go to the house of mourning we mourn as 
it were in spirit and our minds are called to serious truths. 

But what would really be a case of mourning? It would be to follow a person to the grave who 
had not improved their day of salvation had an opportunity of being saved & exhalted & had 
neglected it. That would be a case of mourning. But a person that had done the best they Could & 
improved their opportunities of salvation we have no cause to mourn for such. I would say to the 
children dont mourn for your mother. I would to God you was as sure of salvation as your mother 
is. If I was to mourn for anything?] in this case it would be because we have not more power to 
cast the devil out of the house and out of the Neighborhood. 

Can we realize that sister Rhodes is not dead? She lives now more than she did before. It is the 
sinner that will die not the Righteous. When the spirit of this woman left the body it was ushered 
into a flood of light but her body is as any other clay but her spirit is in open day. She saw a little 
light in the body so as not to put her eye out when she came to the full light. 

I wish to give a little counsel to the Children here. Brother Snow will take charge of the place. I 
want the children to go to school And want an inventory of things here taken for the benefit of 
Brother Rhodes & brother Snow both. I request the children to do as well as your mother has 


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done according to the light you have & I will warrant you salvation & Eternal life & I would say 
the same to all who are here but upon no other principle can I warrant any body salvation exsept 
upon the principle of doing good & obeying the Lord. Do good to your families & to each other. I 
want to say to all present there is no blame to be attached to any of the sisters who waited upon 
Sister Rhodes. They have all done as well as they could for I have enquired into the whole affair 
& her time had Come to die & so will [yours] in its turn. 

13th Sunday Meeting was Addressed in the morning By Brother Joseph Young. He spoke of the 
blessings of the people. It was not wealth & riches that made men happy but it was by having the 
truth & obeying it. This people are called a happy people. Well they are in a great measure yet 
many of the saints have disappointment in their path. Yet we should trust all our affairs in the 
hands of God. We should do right & follow the counsel of those that are set over us & carry out 
their views & the blessing of God will attend us & we shall be happy. 

J. M. Grant followed and said he hoped all would attend to their prayers. It takes as much to 
damn a man as it does to save him. Some wonder why we dont have revelation now in our day as 
well as in the days of Joseph. In his day the brethren would not build a log cabin till they went to 
Joseph to ask counsel how they should set it whare they should put the door &c. But at the 
present day men have learned to do sumthing themselves without troubling the president or the 
Lord about it. Some have thought if they could get to Jackson Co Mo or in this valley they would 
be Holy & among a Holy people. But I do not know of any soil that will make men Holy if men 
are not Holy themselves. I dont know of any particular spot of ground that will make them so. 
Joseph Had to give written Revelation to get men to go on missions but I do not believe that any 
men were ever called more by Revelation or as much as any that were ever called to go on a 
mission to preach the gospel than were our Brethren last fall nor do I believe any men wer filled 
more with Revelation & inspiration in blessing those set apart then were our Brethren who 
blessed those set apart last fall. 

Their is no other kingdom like this on the Earth. The Ancient Apostles had no more of the spirit 
of God to prepare them for their work then our Apostles have for the work which they have to 
perfonn in our day. I would say that the dispensation of Moses & Christ & the Apostles looks 
like this dispensation though this dispensation will eclips all other dispensations for it is the 
finishing up of the building. Moses never began to do what we have to do. 

I am of the opinion that men that Are our prophets Apostles & leaders that have laid the 
foundation of this church & kingdom & are building upon it were reserved from Eternity to come 
forth in this dispensation to accomplish the great work which is to be done. Never did men live 
with more nerve desission o[r/f?] Character perseverance & faith & power than those that lead 
this dispensation. Had they have lived in the days of the Apostles they would have raised the 
devil with both Jew & Gentile. Had they have lived in the days of Moses they would have raised 
the vary Devil with the Canaanites & various Nations. The commencement of this church & 
Kingdom may not appear as great as it did in the days of Moses & Christ & the Apostles but look 
at the progress of this kingdom & And the deeds & work[s?] of Our leaders & the people are 


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startling. Even their exidous out of the States to these mountains & the results that have & will 
follow are greater than the results that followed Moses & the Israelites. 

A mighty great Nation have sent their Judges & rulers to us. They did not behave themselves as 
they should do. We cast them out & sent them home. If all the world was Consolodated into one 
[Nation?] & sent delegates & rulers unto us if they run against the priesthood & infringed upon 
our rights we would cast them out & send them home regardless of consequences. We know 
what the consequences are. 

I want to say to the mass of the saints here you do not keep up with the Presidency of this church 
& those that are associated with him & if you are not careful I fear they will get out of sight of 
you & perhaps be translated & leave you. I pray God to keep you in the path of duty so that you 
may inherit all the blessings that are promised you. 

President Kimball followed & said He believed we had more to do than other dispensations yet 
they had the Keys of the kingdom. If they had not had them they could not have given them to us. 
Jesus says my Sheep hear my voice & will follow me. If they dont pray I think they are not the 
sheep of Christ. If you dont ask the savior for what you want how do you expect to get it? Then 
ask the Lord for what you want. Brother Brigham holds the Keys of this Kingdom & no body els 
holds them as he does. Others hold keys but they hold them under him. He holds the keys that 
Peter held. 

Some want to go to Calafomia whare it is warmer but going to Calafornia wont wann your 
hearts. 

The majority of this people have great hearts & you want to be able to stand alone without 
leaning upon any one. If you dont do it you will be apt to fall. 

If I ever get to glory I expect to be tried. Some think they been tryed by leaving their homes but 
how is it? You was on other mans lands & servants & now you have houses & lands of your 
own. So this was no great trial but a blessing. But you have to be tried. We are going to build up 
a Temple. I expect the devil will kick up a fuss by & by to try you. Well Let it come. I hope the 
Chaff will be blown away. But when Brother Brigham says build this Temple let us go to it rit 
up. 

Some have asked if we could do any more good in the States. I say yes when those that profess to 
be saints will gather out & not much before. 

B Young followed & said if the people will be on the Temple ground to morrow at 1 1 oclok we 
will break the ground for the commencement of the foundation of the Temple. I do not believe 
that Enoch & his people increased in wrighteousness faith & obedience & improved any faster 
than this people have since the commencement of this kingdom. I said this in the days of Joseph. 

I have no doubt but God expects us to improve more than any other people that ever lived on the 
Earth. Then let us double our dilligence & let the parents both men & women never scease untill 


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they govern themselves in all things and if we are tempted to do wrong never scease untill we 
conquor that spirit & bring it in subection under your feet that you may ere long become rulers 
kings & Priest unto God. 

* Feb 14th 1853 This was an important and interesting day to the saints in the valley & even in 
all the world. The saints met upon the Temple block in a vast body to break the ground for 
another Temple. The people commenced gathering at an early hour & at 1 1 oclok there were 
thousands upon the ground. President Young & Counsel the quorum of the Twelve with many of 
the quorums of the church were on the ground. All the bands of music in the city were present. 

At 1 1 oclok President Brigham Young Heber C Kimball & Willard Richards got into a Buggy 
inside the square surrounded by the quorum of the Twelve. President Young arose and addressed 
the people and said our history is to well known for me to speak of it now. We shall now again 
attempt to build another Temple. We have tried it many times but have not been able to finish 
them so as to occupy them for any length of time. We may not now but we will try it. We may 
Just as well build a Temple that will cost a Million of dollars as well as not & we would be just 
as well off & better to than before. And I would just as well build a Temple that would Cost a 
million of Dollars if I knew we should be driven from it in a month by our enemies as though we 
should occupy it a Thousand years. It is all the same with me for when the Lord Commands us to 
do any thing we should do it just as freely without asking the whys & wharefore whether we have 
the privilege of enjoying it or not. 

If you ask if it is the will of God for us to build a Temple I answer yes it is the will of God we 
should build a Temple. We cannot attend to the ordinances of the House of the Lord without it. If 
you ask if I have received a revelation or vision upon the subject I would answer yes I have been 
in vision much of the time upon the subject. I knew it was the will of God that we should build a 
Temple on this same ground when I first came into the valley and while the brethren were 
exploring out I said all the time this is the place for the City & Temple & it is the will of God that 
we should do all we Can in this valley & surrounding Country for the benefit of the people. If the 
people needed it I would give them a written Revelation upon this subject but do you not know 
that it is your duty to build up Houses for your own benefit? You want a buttery Bedrooms & 
other convenient rooms in your dwelling house. Well we want a Temple more than we want 
dwelling houses. 

I will relate some of the sayings of Joseph while in Kirtland He said conserning the building of 
that Temple that it grieved him & also the spirit of God to think that the saints were not willing 
to build a Temple by the counsel of the priesthood without a written revelation & commandment 
from God. That was it not for the penurious feelings of the people the Lord would not give 
revelations & commandments as he does. Whenever the Lord finds the people willing to do good 
build up his Kingdom & do good without being commanded He will be more pleased with them. 

I will bring forth my art & plan for a Temple. Then if any man can present any better plan or get 
faith enough to call to his aid any of the old Nephites or any of the Ancients & will present a 


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better plan than mine will be we will receive it. 

A word to the people. I wish to ask if you want a commandment evry year to require you to pay 
your Tithing when it is a standing law unto Israel & has been from the days of Abraham. You all 
know this well. If you dont want to pay your tithing or any portion of you I dont want you should. 
It is for your good not mine. I dont want a Temple to get my endowments in For I got my 
Endowments and all the blessings appertaining thereto under the hands of Joseph before his 
death & before the Temple was built in Nauvoo & so did my counsellors and a part of the 
Twelve get theirs before the Temple was built. Brother Joseph seemed urged by the spirit of God 
to perform this work. Had he not have done it he might have died without conferring the Keys 
upon others. 

If this people pay their tithing we shall have an abundance in the Store house to build a Temple 
with without giving all you have got. Yet all you have should be upon the Altar ready to be 
offered if necessary. I shall ask the people to come & work out their Tithing by labour for that is 
what we want. I believe we shall have your help. 

7 years ago to morrow at 7 oclok I crossed the Missippi River. I believed then that God had a 
good place in the mountains for us & would lead us to it and He has done it for which I feel 
thankful, if some feel quite sorry for not having the privilege of suffering with us. But I will 
promise you all if you will be faithful that you shall have the privilege of suffering & being tried 
as much as you will wish. Let all men be satisfied faithful & Humble and God will bless you. 

Heber C Kimball then arose & with uplifted hands to heaven offered up a fervent Heart felt 
prayer to God imploring his blessing upon President Young & Councellors & all the Authorities 
of the Church with the whole house of Israel. He then dedicated the ground unto God & prayed 
for the blessings of the Lord to attend them in building the Temple & all the public works in 
Zion. 

At the Close of the prayer the presidency & Twelve walked to the South East Cornor of the 
ground laid out for the Temple. The ground being frozen President Heber C Kimball 
comm[ence?]d breaking the ground with a pick then President Richards then Orson Hyde Parley 
Pratt, W Woodruff, J Taylor A. Lyman C. C. Rich E. T. Benson L. Snow E Snow & F D. 
Richards. Then the ground was broke & President Young took out the first turf. While taking it 
out [a] silver Dollar was flung from some one in the congregation which struk in the hole. 
Brother Kimball said that was an Omen that we should have a plenty of mony to build the temple 
with. (Orson Pratt was at Washington & G A Smith at Provo. All the rest of the Twelve were 
present.) As soon as the turf was taken out the congregation [was dismissed?] & the people 
rushed to the hole to get a chance to throw a little dirt out. My Father Aphek Woodruff Aged 78 
years, myself Wilford Woodruff Aged 46 years and My Son Wilford Woodruff jr Aged 12 years, 
all flung out dirt out of the foundation for this important Temple. 

After leaving the Temple ground I went in company with the Presidency & Twelve to see the 
New sugar works operate. I saw the Hydraulic press oparate in pressing out the Juice. It was a 


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splendid esstablishment. Brother Joseph Russell of Marimichi had furnished about $50,000 
dollars to purchase the machinery & apperatus & get it to the valley to make sugar from the beet. 
My Children Willford, Phebe & Susan Also Emma & Sarah were all present at the breaking of 
the ground for the foundation of the Temple. 

Feb 15 A meeting of the seventies was called in the Tabernacle. The House was filled. The 
meeting was opened by prayer by Z Pulsipher. J M Grant Arose & said this meeting is to transact 
business, preach & teach the people Regulate the different quorums &c. The Meeting was then 
addressed by Z Pulsipher who spoke well & made good remarks. Henry Harriman next followed 
& spoke to edifycation. Milo Andrews next followed & also Edifyed the people. 

Harrison Burgess next followed. He also spoke well. Quoted some prophesies. Said the Seventies 
were to go out under the direction of the Twelve & build up the Kingdom of God & regulate all 
the affairs of the same in all the world. Who of the seventies are prepared for all this? We should 
improve all our time in treasuring up Knowledge & instruction & dont spend it foolishly for we 
shall want all the knowledge we kan obtain in filling our mission to the Nations of the Earth. I 
was Baptized in 1832 & have spent more than half of my life in the [work?]. Adjourned till 2 
oclok. 

Met at 2 oclok according to adjournment. Prayer By W. Woodruff who also addressed the 
congregation. The following are some of the remarks He made: 

I am always interested in meeting with the saints esspecialy with so many of the Seventies & 
Elders as are here to day. There never was a school in any age of the world that presents as much 
of interest to the reflecting mind as the one presenting itself to us in this age not ownly the affairs 
of the church but the History of the Cha[nges?] & Revolution of all Nations on Earth. The Time 
has come when the Earth is to be redeemed from the power & dominion of the Devil & the 
heavens with all the prophets that have ever lived are [included?] in the great work. The Elders 
who are before me to day have this great battle to fight & the victor to win. I never saw a time in 
any age of my life when I have had more desire to live than at the present time. I want to see the 
work progress, the kingdom rise that it may become esstablished in all the Earth & the Effects 
that will follow. 

Yes the Elders should improve their time in treasuring up knowledge & counsel for you will 
want it when you go the Nations of the Earth. Dont spent your time in playing Cards dice chess 
or in any such foolish way but improve the time to the best advantage & seek to conquer 
yourselves & preside over yourselves & bring all your passions in subjection to the law of Christ 
as our president has taught us. 

One item which I count of importance I wish to speak off. I wish to exhort the 70s & Elders to 
keep a Journal & History of their lives for the record & history of this Church & Kingdom will 
be wanted in a future day. Their has been no dispensation on Earth the procedings of which will 
be more interesting than the one in which we live. Should we ever have the privilege in our 
resurrected bodies of visiting other planits & the inhabitants of the same we should want to learn 


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the history of that people. If they had kept no records of their lives & the dealings of God with 
them so we could get their History we should feel much disappointed. 

So would they should they visit us. It is true that Joseph Smith kept a History of his own life & 
those things in some measure connected with him. He is now dead but his life & Testimony is 
now being published to the world in separate peaces in our publications. Also President Young 
has scribes who are recording his daily acts & life which is right & good. But does that record the 
life History & dealings of God with the many thousands of the Apostles & Elders who are or will 
be in all the world among evry Nation under Heaven? No verrily No. Then all ye Elders of Israel 
write your History & the dealings of God with you in all the world for your own benefit & that of 
your posterity, for the benefit of the House of Israel, for the benefit of Jew & Gentile for the 
benefit of futur generations & in fine for the benefit of those celestial beings from other planets 
who may see fit to visit us either in time or Eternity & wish to visit our libraries & peruse the 
History of the inhabitants of the Earth esspecially the Saints in the last dispensation & fulness of 
times. Then write & do not neglect it. Many other remarks were made by the speaker which are 
not recorded Here. 

Brother Wood next made a few remarks. Said He would do all the good He could. Would follow 
the counsel of the prophets & leave his conscience in the states for He believed the people would 
be led by the Holy Ghost if they followed the Counsel of the prophets who were sent to lead 
them. He thought they were [safer?] than his conscience for Paul once thought in all good 
conscience that He was doing Gods will by persecuting the saints so his conscience deceived 
him. 

A. P. Rockwood next spoke & said my text is in the words of the Apostle Wilford that we are the 
people chosen to build up the Kingdom. This I believe to be true. Many glorious principles have 
been displayed in the words of Brother Woodruff & they are worthy to be written & handed 
down to all generations as it would be profitable for all to read. All should write & leam to write 
in short hand that we may report speeches & sennons. Let us pay up our tithing & obey the 
authorities that are put over us. The brethren had much rather be brought before the Authorities 
of the land than the Church. 

Meeting Adjourned till 6 oclok in the evening when the people met & about 40 were ordained to 
the seventies & remarks made from several of the brethren. 

16th Meeting commenced at 10 oclok. Brother Gr[eenwoo?]d who had been to the Islands on a 
mission preached in the forenoon. Gave an account of his mission & closed up by speaking & 
saying the Lords prayer in the Tahitain language. I was not present at his discourse so I could not 
write it. 

A Lyman followed at some length. Said He had no Different feelings about the Seventies than He 
had abot the Elders or High Priest. He was no more partial to one than the other. He did not know 
of any ordination that was of any benefit to him aside from his own exhertion. He never boasted 
of any office he had. He wished to live in such a manner that I can say to all men follow me. I 


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dont wish to be under the necessity of citing evry body to follow Brother Young or Brother 
Kimball. I want to be able to say to all follow me as I follow Christ. Many other remarks were 
made by Brother Lyman. 

Brother Colebum made some remarks. Said He was Baptized by Brother Brigham Young in 
1833 was ordained an Elder by Joseph Smith. 

Brother Joseph Young Addressed the meeting. Wished all might soon be enabled to govern 
themselves. I am president of the Seventies & the quorums were set in order by Joseph Smith & I 
suppose it is right their is a president over each quorum of the seventies And I want evry 
president to keep their quorums in order. It is the privilege & duty of evry president to try & cut 
off any member of his quorum if they are worthy of it. I dont want to be to slow or two fast but as 
near the line as I Can get. And I wish others to do the same. I wish All the seventies to take the 
Deserett News & read it & let your children read it & put it in your library & preserve it. I also 
want you to sharpen up your swords & keep your ann[s?] in order & leam the art of war. And I 
want all to do military duty. Joseph Once said if we did not keep our arms in order An enemies 
might come upon us as unawares & destroy us but if we are prepared we need not fear. I was at 
the slaughter at Hauns mill. I dont want to see any more of it. I Also want the Seventies to pay up 
their tithing. It has now become a matter of church fellowship & I hope you will not forget it. 

E T Benson followed. Was rejoiced to hear what he had. It had warmed up his hart. I wish to 
obey the Lord & fulfill my Calling. We have had good counsel & we will do well to follow it. 

We are about to begin another Temple. I e[xpec?]t the devil will be mad. I dont care if we dont 
stay hare a month if the Lord wants we should go away. When I look back to the days of Nauvoo 
& compare them with these days I am satisfyed that evry move we make is for our good. Many 
said then we Could not travel but would be destroyed. Brother Brigham said we could Journey & 
not a man be lost & it has proved true. We are here & in a good situation. Yet if ye will live 
godly in Christ Jesus ye shall suffer persecution. This Kingdom has to be built up by manual 
labour. I hope this people will soon be in a situation to live by their own resources & not trust to 
the Gentiles. Some dont pray but a man can no more live without praying than they can without 
bread. If you dont keep the commandments of God the devil with use you for his deciple. 
Blessings will not stick upon an unfaithful man but they will upon one that is faithful. Let us pray 
in s[ecre?]t as well as in the family circle. Any body that dont know that mormonism is true is 
not fit to send on a mission. The priest of the day say they preach from the bible. I tell them they 
dont know that it is true but I know that mormonism is true. 

Erastus Snow followed & said that He was glad to hear what was said. It was good. I am glad to 
see the seventies together. You have as much of a calling as you can fulfill. Dont wish for any 
greater calling. The day has come when this body of men will be called into immediate action & 
if evry one of you could be in 20 places at once you would find enough to do. It is better to wear 
out than to rust out. The Seventies are the bone & sinnew of Israel the Battle Ax of the Almighty. 
What a mighty influence they must wield in Israel & the world. We are begining to become one 
as a people. Joseph said He had got a lever under the earth & He meant to turn it over that it 


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might be right side up. The seventies I expect will do much towards turning it over. It is for our 
best interest to build up the kingdom of God & do his will. 

Meeting continued through the evening. Some two New quorums of seventies was organized 
during the evening but I was not present & could not give particulars but the evening closed up 
the meeting for business preaching &c. 

17th I spent the day at home writing. 

18th I spent the day on the west side Jordon Hunting for my horses & cows. Found my cows but 
not my Horses. 

191 spent the day at home choring & writing. 

20th Sunday Erastus Snow Addressed the meeting & spoke well. He said * if he spoke to their 
edifycation it would have to be by their prayers & faith. He said he felt dull & did not feel as he 
did while in the vineyard preaching. He felt he said as the little boy at sea in the storm. His Father 
was Captain of the ship & had the helm & all were afraid of being lost. The boy was asked why 
he was not afraid. He replyed that he had no fear for dada had the helm & their was no danger so 
I fel[t/l?] Here. Dada has the helm here so their is no danger. He spoke of his mission in 
denmark. The Lord showed him that the King & Counsel was taking counsel against him to stop 
his preaching. He herd their conversation in a night vision but He said as I kept the Law & my 
brethren they could find no accusation against me. He exhorted the Saints to faithfulness & said 
many interesting things. He was followed by president Young. 

President Brigham Young arose & said he does appreciate the blessings we enjoy. There is no 
other people on earth that enjoy as great blessings in the gospel of Jesus Christ. Some suppose 
that no people but ourselves have enjoyed the light of the Lord. No other people do enjoy the 
fulness of the gospel but all men more or less have had the light of the Lord as he was the light 
that enlight[eneth?] evry man that cometh into the world. We are now living in the times of times 
the dispensation of all dispensation. None have put it down no matter how it may be disspiced it 
is the kingdom of God on the Earth hear in our midst. 

Now ask yourselves the question are you as happy as you expected you would be when you got to 
Zion? Have you got what you anticipated you would get? All the world cannot disprove this to be 
the Kingdom of God. Here the saints are gathered from the states England & other parts of the 
world. What were your feelings while there? It was if I could ownly get to the valley with the 
Saints I would be satisfyed for I cannot bear to stay in the wicked world & hear the blasphemes 
of the people. But I want to be with the saints. Well now are you not with the saints & are you 
not the saints? Then are you happy? What did you anticipate? Why it was that that there would 
the blessed saints dwell whare there would be no more sin or wickedness and I shall bask in the 
smiles of my Lord. Well how is it now? Is it as you anticpated? What benders your enjoying all 
that you anticipated]? I can answer it for myself. If I dont have all the light truth Joy & 
happiness & glory that I anticipated [it] is because of my vary self and my will prevents me. All 


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hell cannot hender me if I am right from enjoying all that I expet. 

If any other man does wrong trespasses steals my polls fence or any thing els it is no reason why I 
should do wrong again. Because my neighbor does an evil It is no reason why I should do an evil 
in all the days of my life. [I?] say that man that will do right in all things let his Neighbor do as 
he may shall have heaven here. Who has got power to chet me out of my crown, Glory, Heaven, 
Kingdom, &c? Who is it that has an influence over you? Who is /<[-]>/ will deprive you of all 
that you expect? Nobody but your own selves. And any body that does not know enough about 
salvation to judge what to do when you are instructed continually are not Capable of receiving a 
Celestial Kingdom. They are not worthy of it. No one that cannot preside over themselves is not 
worthy of it. But it is those who are valiant in the Testimony of Jesus Christ & bring themselves 
in subjection to the Law of Christ & say I will serve God let others do as they may. 

Another question. I will do all I can to ask the Lord for wisdom all the day long & if I do right am 
i not Capable of knowing things for myself? I am. When the people first went to Jackson Co they 
thought if they could ownly get there they would be in glory. Nearly all seemed anxious to get 
there. I did not go myself but went into the world & preached the gospel to the people. But by & 
by the people in that place had more trouble than we did. 

But I now will ask if they suffered in their feelings as much as they would have done if they had 
anticipated the trouble & known it before? No for they could not bear it. The Anticipation of 
trouble or Happines is far beyond the reality in this life. Some think they could not bear the 
troubles that this Church have passed through. But I have passed through it & bourn it well 
enough & never felt better than I have in the midst of the persecutions of the Saints. 

We talk of sacrafize. Do we sacrafize in the building of this Kingdom? If I had millions & used it 
in the building of this Kingdom would it be sacrafize? No. If I was Called to go & preach the 
gospel all the days of my life & never see my family again it would not be sacrafize. What is our 
reward for our labour & faithfulness? It is thrones, kingdoms, principalities Eternal Lives & a 
seat among the Gods. Then is it sacrafice? No such thing. 

I believe that all would be better to gather together with the saints than to remain in the world. I 
thought all would be honest. I laid aside all my account Books. I thought I should not need to 
keep any accounts with the saints but I have found it quite different. Many do not fell disposed to 
pay their debts if they can gag red of it. 

Many of the Saints are fearful. The little time that I talked on the stand to Judge Brocchus their 
was more suffering in the flesh & in spirit in the few minutes & for months afterwards than you 
would suffer in reality in years of persecution. Many in their imagination saw us all hung, shot, 
drown, murdered massacred in evry imaginable shape that you could think off & one reason that 
you suffer so much more than you expected here in Zion is you have brought yourselves with you 
but at last you will lay down Self & it will go to the dust. 

Now I want to give a text for evry body to preach from & that is take a Course to restore 


Pagel31 




Confidence throughout the whole land of Zion & the whole kingdom of God. Let confidence be 
restored to all men by an upright course of life & doing right unto all & practice it. Commence 
with you family your children. If you give your child [ren?] any thing for instance a trunk to put 
their things in dont never go to that trunk or disturb those things in any wise without the special 
leave of your child. So by your wife. Any thing that she possesses or that you give her never 
disturb that or take any thing that is hers without her leave. So [let?] the wife do by the Husband. 
Never disturb any thing that is his without his leave. So with children. They should never touch 
any thing that is their parents without their leave. I never opened a trunk belonging] to one of my 
wives in my life but once & that was to get a portrait to send to the States as I could not wait for 
her to return before the messenger left. 

Then from your families let this principle go through your neighborhood & throughout the whole 
kingdom of God. Pay all men what you owe them. Fulfill your promises and if your Neighbors 
Horse ox Cow or any thing that He has is suffering by your door feed it & save its life as you 
would if it was your own. And then let your Neighbors woods polls fence & evry thing He has 
got alone & let all of mine alone & I will yours. And in this way you will restore Confidence. 
Dont trespass on any body but do right & the blessings of God will attend you. 

Brother Richards said owe no man any thing. I owe gratitude to God & to all mankind in a 
measure but in a measure or another sens owe no man any thing. But do right in all things & you 
will have all the Heaven & Zion that you can enjoy in this world. 

2 id % I spent this day in Company with President Young And had a vary plesant agreeable day 
with him. I dined with him in company with E. T. Benson. President Young gave me a mission to 
go onto the Temple Block & take Charge of the tithing hands. I agreed to do so. 

22d } I spent a part of the day in company with Brother Wells & Brother Angel in learning what 
was required of me in taking charge of the tithing hands. Brother Angel Showed me the Temple 
plot or ground plan which he had drawn. I assisted Brother Coray in taking the names of the 
Temple Hands at night. 

? Wednesday 23d I commenced my labour this morning on the Temple ground in diging out the 
earth for the foundation. I found it a busy place. 

24, 25, 26 I spent the time on the Temple block. 

\ 27th Sunday I attended meeting. President Brigham Young preached & he presented some of 
the most interesting & deepest principles ever presented to man on the earth. I had not paper & 
did not write them. The following are some of the items given: 

In speaking of the privileges of this people He said the people should first perfonn evry known 
duty & not neglect them to enjoy any pleasure. 

In speaking of danceing he said when the saints were taken up with the spirit of the fiddle & 
dancing & had not the spirit of God they were wrong & in the wrong road. A man should never 


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go to a dance to the neglect of other Duties neither should he unless he Could have the spirit of 
God as well as in a prayer meeting. 

He said some Elders would threaten to curse their wives if they did not obey him because he had 
the priesthood. He said the Curses of such men wer of no force & the women need have no fears 
of it. 

He said again some men had a desire to stick to the work because it made them kings & priest so 
they Could sway a great septer & rule with a rod of Iron & damn men here & curse them there 
&c and had not in view the principles of Justice Jud[ge]ment mercy truth &c but they can not 
arise upon such principle. Even God himself should He act upon this principle He would scease 
to be God for the principles that Sustain him & his Throne would forsake him & he would scease 
to be God. For light & truth & evry other good principle cleaves unto itself And these all sustain 
the throne of God & He sustains them. He & all righteous men love the truth for the truth sake & 
embrace it & maintain it because it is just & true not because it gives them power to rule with a 
rod of Iron. 

Some men want women sealed to them at the same time they will steal my property. I want such 
men to go to Calafornia as soon as possible for they will go to Hell any how. 

Who should have women sealed to them? Those men who have proved to God Angels & 
m[a/e?]n that they are willing to do any thing that God requires of them at the sacrafice of all 
their own private interest or feelings & have been faithful all the day long. Such should have 
women sealed to them for they will be saved. I have told the brethren that all good men might 
have this privilege but they must be their own Judges. If men ask for this privilege & abuse it 
they sell their birth right like Esau. They cannot never regain it in all Eternity. Men that have 
women sealed to them & abuse them & turn them out doors & treat lightly those sacred things 
given unto them it will prove a Curse unto them. Then beware O ye people how ye treat the 
things of God that are Committed unto you. For many will wake up from an awful dream & find 
themselves wifeless & childless in the morning of the resurrection who thought they had 
possessions for they will sceace to increase & when they scease to increase they will decrease. 

The difference between Christ & the devil is Christ will increase & the devil will decrase untill 
Christ will have power to destroy death & him that hath the power of death which is the devil. 
Yes the devil will finally be destroyed & disorganized & will scease to exhist as a devil & the 
Elements of which he is composed will go back into its mother Element & the Devil will scease 
to be & so will his Angels & evry thing that does not increase will decreas untill it will be 
disorganized & he expressed it as his opinions that there were many who had a tabernacle on 
Earth that would never have a resurrection. Many other interesting remarks were made by the 
speaker. 

28 I spent the day on the Temple block. 


March 


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March 1st 1853 This is my birth day. I am 46 years of Age this day. This birthday finds me 
having charge of the tithing hands in commencing to prepare for the building of [-] Temple to the 
Name of the most high God. May the Lord enable us to finish it. 

2, 3, 4 & 5 I spent this week on the Temple block. 

6th Sunday I attended Meeting. J. M. Grant Preached to the people. Compared this people to the 
chequer board that they would rush the men on to the King row. They could then jump any way. 
[He advised?] the brethren to make their ditches fences guarding & c & said many good things. 

Brother Kimball followed & took up the clay upon the wheel in the hands of the potter & dwelt 
lengthy upon that subject & taught many excellent principle. He was followed by P P Pratt 
followed & made many good remarks & gave good council & W Woodruff spoke concerning] 
the Temple. 

March 7 : j I wrote 4 letters to I F Carter Maine & Mo St Louis J M. Bernhisel Washington H. S. 
Eldridge St. Louis Mo. Requesting them to let I F Carter have $1,000 or $1,400, & I would pay 
them here & I spent the day on the public work. 

8 9, 10, 11, 12 I spent the time on the Temple Block diging out the suller. 

13th Sunday I attended meeting & Elder John Taylor preached. It was a vary Cold day. We had a 
prayer meeting in the evening or afternoon. 

* March 13th 1853 Wilford Woodruff bom March 1st 1807 In Farmington Hartford County 
Connecticut. Phebe Whitmore Carter born March 8th 1807 Scarborough Cumberland County 
Main. 

Wilford Woodruff and Phebe Whitemore Carter was Sealed for time & Eternity By President 
Hiram Smith in Nauvoo at 9 oclok P.M. Nov 1 1th 1843. /It was not Recorded./ 

Wilford Woodruff and Phebe Whitmore Carter was sealed at the Counsel House in Great Salt 
Lake City for time & Eternity by President Brigham Young at 7 oclok March 13th 1853. 

Wilford Woodruff & (Emma Smith born March 1st 1838 At Diahman Davis County Missouri) 
was sealed for time & Eternity by President Brigham Young at 7 oclock P.M. March 13 1853. 

Wilford Woodruff and (Sarah Brown born in Hendersen County New York Jefferson County 
New York Jan 1st 1834) was sealed for time and Eternity By President Brigham Young at 7 
oclock PM March 13, 1853. 

March 14 15 16 17 18 & 19th I spent this week in diging out the foundation for the Temple. 

20th Sunday I attended meeting. P P. Pratt Preached. Was followed by David Whitmore. Brother 
Pratt Preached upon the first Principles of the gospel. Said the Ancient prophets had a knowledge 
of the gospel & of Jesus Christ & bore testimony of him And the Apostles were called to preach 


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it to the nations. I always was Anxious to have the same gospel esstablished in my day. A 
methodist once asked me if I did not rejoice to see that denomination prosper so. I told him no. I 
said I wished that denomination & all other would come down. He asked why. I said so The 
Church of Christ might be built up in its stead. 

I had a man a few days since come to me with a flying Roll from Gladden Bishop & wished to 
teach me. I herd him awhile. I then asked him if He believed Joseph Smith was a prophet of God 
& set up the Kingdom of God on the Earth & ordained Twelve Apostles to build up that kingdom 
in all the world. 

He said He did. I then told him as I was one of those Twelve Apostles that I should be damned if 
I was not in a situation to Judge him & all Other men that I come in contact with whether their 
work was of God or the Devil And I know your Roll & work is of the Devil & not of God while 
you say I shall be damned if I dont receive it. 

We know the Lord is with the leaders of this people. We know through the wisdom which God 
has given president Young he has fed & preserved this people in the wilderness & on other 
places & has done well. We know he has done well & that He is the good shepherd that feeds the 
flock. A true shepherd does not stand in need of telling the flock all the time that He is the good 
[sheperd] for the flock knows it without being told of it. 

Met for prayer in the evening. Brother David Fulmer made some good remarks & was followed 
by brother Kimball who brought up the parable of the threshing floor & Compared it with this 
place & people. He gave good instruction. Was followed by W. Woodruff who requested the 
people to continue their labours on the Temple. 

21, 22, 23 I spent the time in the Temple Ground. On the 23d the large bam owned by Hornor & 
Egan was burned to the ground with severel horses. 

24th A severe snow Storm. 

25 26 My time [was] spent on the temple ground. 

27th Sunday Elder John L Smith Addressed the meeting & spoke well. After He closed President 
Brigham Young Arose & said many interesting things concerning the Gladdenites & Apostates in 
this place. His discours is published in the Deserett News vol 3 No 10 which is Highly 
interesting. Was followed By P P Pratt J Taylor & W Woodruff. I also preached in the evening in 
the 14 ward school hous. 

28 29 30 & 3 1 Was spent on the temple Ground. 

;}■ 30th I wrote 4 letters to I F Carter Ezra Carter J. M. Bernhisel & H S Eldridge. I Also wrote A 
letter to Levi Stewart to be opened at St Louis. * I sent $1,000 by Levi Stewart to Sanbon & 
Carter. 


Pagel35 




April 

April 1 & 2d I spent the time on the temple ground. 

3d Sunday Meeting was Addressed by Erastus Snow & followed by A Lyman. We had a good 
meeting. Attended praying circle in the evening. 

4 & 5 I spent my time at hard labour to prepare the Temple ground for laying the comor Stones 
of the Temple. 

* April 6th 1853 The General Conference of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter day saints 
Commenced this morning & this day was one of the most interesting ever witnessed by the 
church since its organization. The procedings of the day is published in the Deserett News of 
April 16 1853 so I will not record it here. I will say however that the four Corner Stones of the 
Temple in Great Salt Lake City [were laid]. 

The presidency laid the S.E. comer Stone with the patriarch. Bishop Edward Hunter & counsel 
with the lesser priesthood laid the S.W comor Stone. John Young the president of the High 
Priests quomm & counsel, the president of the Stake & Counsel, with the High Counsel proceded 
to lay the North west comor Stone. The Twelve Apostles Lirst Presidency of the Seventies, & 
presidency of the Elders quorum laid the North East comor Stones. Their was a prayer offerd 
Oration Delivered & Song sung on each cornor stone as they were laid. There was the largest 
Assembly of saints ever gatherd to gether in Deserett on the occasion. It occupied the whole day 
untill 2 oclock. 

After the 12 Had laid the last stone on the North East cornor & closed the cornor ceremony. 
President Young ascended the stone & gave his benediction as follows: Brethren & Sisters I bless 
you in the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth & pray my father in heaven to encircle you in the 
Arms of his love & mercy protect us untill we have finished the Temple received the fulness of 
our endowments therein & then build many more And I pray also that we may live to see the 
great Temple in Jackson County Missouri. You are now dismissed with the Blessings of the Lord 
Jesus Christ upon your heads. Amen. 

The possession then returned to the Tabernacle & were dismissed by president Young untill 3 
ock P.M. 

Met at 3 oclok. Prayer by A Lyman. President Brigham Young arose & deliverd a vary 
interesting discourse which is published in full in the Deserett News of April 30th 1853. 

Brother Kimball said that the seventies had a portion of the Apostleship as had all the Elders but 
none were ordained to the fulness of the Apostleship except the Twelve or those who are 
ordained to the office. 

A Lyman spoke. Told a dream. Said Joseph came to him & told him to dip a large lake dry & 


Page 136 




gave him a spoon to do it with. Said he could not have any impression upon it with a spoon he 
thought but still would obey counsel & went to dipping & soon lowerd the lake 5 feet. Then 
Joseph told him He could not always Judge of things by appearances but the Lord would do all 
for us that our hearts could desire. Adjourned till tomorrow. 

7th Conference Called to order by president Young who presented for a text a set of fire Irons 
made by the brethren from the Native Iron in Iron County. 

Benjamin Clapp arose & made confession that He had been in darkness & done wrong in many 
things & wished to be forgiven & retained in the church. He was forgiven. The Presidency & 
Twelve with all the presidency of different quorums patriarchs High Councel Bishops & c were 
presented to the people & sustained. 

G A. Smith was Called upon to preach an Iron sennon when He took one of the fire Irons swung 
it over his head & cryed out Steropyped Edition & desended amid the Cheers of the saints. 

2 P.M. Conference Called to order by H. C. Kimball. Prayer by W. Woodruff. P P Pratt read his 
oration delivered on the comor Stone & delivered his sermon published in Deserett News. 

After dismissing the meeting, the presidency Twelve & others met in the vestry & James Alread 
Asahel Perry & Charles Walker Hyde were ordained Patriarch under the Hands of presidents 
Young Kimball & Richards. 

April 8th Conference Called to order by President Young. Prayer by J M Grant. President 
Kimball Arose & said we have a number chosen to go on Missions when 23 Names were given 
& set apart to their different Stations /of Europe/. 5 to other parts. Names published in Deserett 
News. 

President Young then arose & gave a text to preach from "The right of Heir ship." His discourse 
upon this important subject is also published in the News. Erastus Snow followed on the subject 
of selfishness & [-]. P. P. Pratt bore testimony of the truths that we had herd. 

2 oclok P.M. Elder John Taylor gave sermon on the right of Heirship in the Priesthood. J M. 
Grant followed & made some good remarks. 

April 9th Prayer by T Bullock. Z Pulsipher spoke of the mob scenes in Missouri. Elder O Hyde 
spoke on the principles of sanctfycation & blesings of the Almighty giving a parables of a flock 
of sheep with Shepherd dogs. 

2 PM. Conference called to order by president Young. T Bullock read the report of the perpetual 
Emigrating fund. President Young occupied the time on various subjects. Yet to be printed. 

April 10th Elder Lorenzo Snow Addressed the meeting. Was followed by H C Kimball. He was 
followed By B Young. All is published in the News. President Young Appointed the 2d Saturday 
in Aug for the next Conference special to appoint Elders to go abroad & transact such business as 


Page 137 




is necessary but shall [ ]. Adjourned this conference till Oct 6th 1853. And I bless evry man & 

woman in the name of Jesus Christ Amen. Benediction by President Kimball. 

11 12 13 14 15 16 My time was spent on the Temple & public works. 

Sunday April 17th Meeting was Addressed in the morning by Elder A. Lyman & was followed 
by C. C Rich. Both spoke unto edefycation. President Young followed with an interesting 
discoursed which will be published. 

18 to 23 Was spent on the Temple ground mostly. 

Sunday 24th W. Woodruff Addressed the meeting. Took for his text confidence & preached from 
it. Was followed by O. Hyde & P P Pratt. All spoke to Edifycation. At the close of the meeting I [ 
]. Thomas W Winters was ordained a High priest & Bishop under the Hands of O Hyde P P Pratt 
W Woodruff. 

25 to 30 I spent the week upon the public works. 

May 

May 1st Sunday O Hyde preached & was followed by others. 

May 2d President Young returned from his Southern rout. The Legion went out [to] escort him 
in. Their had been considerably excitement about the Indians expecting a war. 

3d to 7th Spent the time on Presidents Youngs [home?]. 

8th Sunday President Young Addressed the people at length upon his Journey which is published 
in the Deserett News of May 14th. Was followed by H C Kimball. 

9th to 14th I spent the week on President Youngs Ho[use/ome?]. 

15th Sunday [] I received 8 letters from Azmon & Thompson Woodruff A Badlam I F Carter 2 J 
M Bernhisel 2 & Wm H Wilsom. The meeting was Addressed by Major & followed by P P Pratt 
who spoke well. 

16th :]■:]■ I wrote [ ] Letters to I F Carter Freedom & Shuah Moulton Luther & Rhoda 

Scammans J M. Bernhisel, Thompson Woodruff, Aphek Woodruff, A Badlam. 

17th to 21 I spent the time on the public works. 

22d Sunday Z Pulsipher Addressed the people. Spoke well. Was followed By President Kimball 
who preached excellent Doctrin unto edifycation. 

23d to 28 I spent the time on the temple Block. 28^-1 wrote 5 Letters to sundry persons. 

29th Sunday David Fulmer spoke to the people & was followed by P. P Pratt who spoke upon the 
linage of our Fathers that we should seek to obtain it &c. He spok much to edefycation. {I 1 } The 


Pagel38 




Afternoon was spent by hearing president Young preach. He rebuked all wickedness as with a 
sharp two edge sword. 

30 & 3 1 1 spent on the temple Block. 

June 

June 1st to 4 Time spent on temple block. 

5th Sunday The meeting was Addressed by P P Pratt & followed by James Brown who gave an 
account of his mission to the Islands. P.M. J M. Grant spoke to the people well. 

6th to 1 1 Was spent on the Temple block. 

12th Dr J. M. Bernhisel gave an account of his mission to Washington which was interesting. I 
did not hear it nor take notes. 

19 Sunday President Young & others address the meeting to day. I have not notes. 

20 to 25 I spent the time on the Temple Block. 

26 Sunday I spent the day at meeting. 

27 to 30 Was spent on the public works. 

July 

July 1 & 2 I spent the time on the public works. 

3d Sunday W Woodruff Addressed the people. Took for his text I have set before you life & 
death. Chose ye whom you will serve. If the Lord be God serve him if Baal serve him. O Hyde 
followed in making remarks. 

July 4th ? This day was Celebrated by the inhabitants of Utah an account of which is given in the 
DeserettNews of July 10th 1853. 

5 to 9 I spent the time on the Temple ground. 

10th Sunday I preached to the people & spoke well. I have notes. 

1 1th I spent the time on the public works. 

12th I comm[enc?]ed my haying & harvesting. 

13 to 161 spent the time Haying. 

17th Sunday I spent the time in meeting. 

18 to 23d I spent the time Haying. 


Page 139 




24th Sunday The celebration of the 24 was spent in the Tabernacle in worshiping God. Lorenzo 
Young spoke to the people & was followed by President Young in an interesting discourse. 

251 took my family to big Cotton wood & Attended a feast & made a speech & herd others upon 
the subject of the pioneers entering the valley. Had a good dinner & returned home. 20 mils. 

July 26 to 30 Spent my time Harvesting. 

July 22d Mail Arived & I received two Letters one from I F Carter ;}■[]*& one from Dwight 
Webster saying that my sister Eunice Died on the 15th June After a long Illness. She sent me 
word that she died a full believer in Mormonism. 

July 30th } I wrote 2 Letters to I. F. Carter & Dwight Webster. 

July 3 1st Sunday President Brigham Young preached a discourse upon the subject of our Indian 
war for we have had a war with Walker & his band about 3 weeks. The Saints are all gathering in 
out of the small settlements & forting up. Their has been 2 Brethren killed & 3 wounded & 10 
Indians killed as supposed. 


August 

Aug 1st to 6 I spent the time hard at work Haying & Harvesting. 

Sunday 7th J M Grant spoke to the people upon the subject of the uniformity of the times & Ages 
of Moses & the prophets Jesus & the Apostles. Spoke of the evils that existed in those days & the 
main reason why Jesus & the Apostles was persecuted & put to death was because they had a 
plurality of wives & brought testimony to prove it. He spoke of the priesthood of Joseph & 
Brigham & said Brigham wielded this people to do what He pleased to pr[...] to war, to cultivate 
the Earth or any thing that He wished to do for the people know that God leads him in all his 
moves. Said Mormonism was against all hell & all Hell against Mormonism. When Joseph or 
Brigham speaks let them speak like men of God & let all Israel say Amen. 

H C Kimball followed. Spoke of the rebelion of Lucipher. One third part of the Hosts of Heaven 
was cast down with him to Hell by Michael & his Associates. He spoke of the resurrection of the 
Saints the wickedness of the wicked. He said I know the Nations of the Earth are Doomed to 
destruction with judgement Lamentation & wo & this people will feel it if they dont take care & 
do as they are told. Now save your wheat or you will suffer more than you have done this year. I 
am willing you should feed the Emigrant what they want to help them to Calafomia but no more. 
All Nations will have to bow to God & his truth his Church & Kingdom yet & we shall live untill 
the Devil is dead. 

8 to 121 spent the time Haying & Harvesting & draying Hay. 

13th Special conference met this morning. The minutes of the conferance I shall not record here. 


Page 140 




14 Sunday Conference continued. Not recorded here. 

/19th I Baptized Brother & Sister Rose & 2 children & confirmed them./ 

15 to 20 I spent the time drawing grain. 

211 preached at Bishop Smoots ward on cotton wood & spent the night with Mrs Woodruff at 
John Benbows. 10 mils. 

22 23d & 24 I spent the time on the Temple ground. Brother Kington spent the night with me. 

25 I rode in company with Elder T Kington to webber & spent the night with him. I was sent to 
webber by Govornor Young to locate the fort for the inhabitants. They could not agree among 
themselves. They had moved it several times & still were dissatisfyed. 40 mils. 

26th I rode throughout the webber Settlement on both sides of the river & examined the whole 
country & collected the whole people together at 12 oclock & I preached to them two hours & 
herd them talk 2 Hours more. I then esstablished the fort on the North side South Side of the river 
in the midst of the fanning lands. I was weary at night & spent the night at Brother Kingtons. 

27th j_ I left webber & rode to Salt Lake City through hard rain showers. Was wet. I then 
mounted a Hors & rode to John Benbows on Cotton wood & spent the night. 50 mils. Wm 
Benbow with two Daughters had arived from Wisconsin & was at John Benbows. Has also 
visited me several times. 

28th Sunday I Baptized Wm Benbow & two Daughters Ann & Marion Benbow & confirmed 
them & then rode with Wm & John Benbow & [ ] to the City. I was quite unwell. I attended 

meeting. Several spoke. 12 mils. 

[] } I received 6 Letters from H. S. Eldridge Sanbon & [Carter Ilus?] Badlam Middleton & Riley 
& Scovil. I wrote 1 Letter to Ilus Carter. I sent drafts to them one of $140 & 1 of $154.23 totel 
$294.23. 

29th I done some business with J M. Bernhisel. Took some goods to sell at 15 percent. Brother 
Barnes Commenced to [Hay to day?]. 

30th I spent the day choreing drawing lumber &c. I Baptized a Brother Brown & confirmed him. 

3 1st I spent the day Choreing. 


September 

Sept 1 to 3 I spent the [time] labouring about home. 

4th Sunday Meeting was Addressed by Lorenzo Snow & O Hyde in the fore part of the day & in 
the afternoon by P P Pratt who spoke much to the edifycation of the people. 


Pagel41 




5th to 10th President Young had opened City Creek Canyon to some of his friends to draw wood 
from. I drew 12 load of wood this week. 

1 1th Sunday I spent the day at meeting. 

12 to 171 drew 17 load of wood this week from City Creek canyon. I carried the President 6 load. 

18th Sunday Meeting was Addressed by S. M. Blair in the fore part of the day & by P P Pratt in 
the Afternoon. 

Sept 19 to 23 I spent this week drawing Com. 

24th Sunday Meeting was Addressed this morning by Brother Clawson & was followed by 
President Young. He said it was a common thing for the Elders to remark that they did not feel 
like teaching or speaking here in the Tabernacle to the people. This may be excusable in them for 
I have been schooled in this class a long time yet I want to say to the Elders when you get up here 
pour out what is in you & if you have Errors pour them out & let me correct you for this is the 
place to be corrected. Let out all the doctrin that is in you [as you] do in the wards meetings there 
you will teach the people your Doctrin whether true or fals but in this stand you are as still & 
dark as night. 

Prophets & Apostles & all the saints are edefyed when they hear an Elder preach by the spirit of 
God. The Devil would strive to make you believe that you could not preach & He would take all 
of the spirit of God from you if he could. I will tell you what the Lord & the prophets & Apostles 
want of all of the Elders & that is that you live in such a manner that you may be filled with fire 
so that you can preach or pray & be filled with the power of God so as to Edify all. 

Brother Clawson says that I am not capable of Edifying this people. What does this say that I 
have been in the dark? Now I will give you the key \ so that you will know how to improve all 
the lessons you have to take. Do right. Live so that you will have the spirit of God. Dont do 
wrong in any thing. Dont get Angry be slow to judge of your neighbor. Now the key is to live so 
close to God that He cannot hide his face from you if you do not you will always be dull scholars 
all your lives. You must walk in the light of the Lord or you cannot Edify & do good. You must 
do it. 

A man that is in his place can see all that is going on as well as I could stand on an eminance & 
see all that is going on on my fann. There is no more need of getting mad crossing the plains or 
in the canyons than their is while setting in a Rocking chair or in this Stand. If you have the Spirit 
of God & keep it then you can learn what their is to be known. You should pray. Go to God. Live 
in the spirit of God untill you are full & your bones are filled with fire. 

I am fully satisfyed with what God has given me. I am always satisfyed with what I have had. I 
Have had the spirit of God to lead me while in England as Joseph had in America for we have the 
same God to Assist us in one place as in another & this will be the case with the Elders in all the 


Page 142 




world. 


In speaking of the Revolutionary war said we would not have any national feeling against our 
breth[er?] or any good man. 

25 to 30 I spent the time ploughing & sowing wheat. 

October 

Oct 1st [] 4 1 Received one letter from I F Carter & wrote 1 Letter to J M Bern hi set. 

Oct 2d Sunday P. P. Pratt Preached upon the kingdom of God. 

3d to 5 Spent the time Labouring. 

Oct 6 th to 9th This time was spent in a general Conference of the Church. Much business was 
done. Many missionaries were Chosen to go to the Lamanites & other places. Much interesting 
instruction was given by the Presidency & Twelve. All the procedings were published in the 
Deserett News. I received a mission in connexion withe T Benson in the settlement of Tuella or 
were to pick out 50 families to settle that place. President Young gave an Address to the 
missionaries which I reported & gave him. 

/10th / 1 sowed 5 Acres of wheat. Ploughed till 15 th on the 5 Acres at P P Pratts. 

16th Sunday John Taylor Addressed the people in the forenoon & Brother Waugh & others in the 
afternoon. 

17th to 22d I spent the time ploughing & sowing wheat. I sowed the lot at Parley Pratt & the 
Shirtlif lot. 

23d Sunday Z Pulsipher & Phineas Young addressed the people in the fore part of the day & 
Brother Kimball in the afternoon. 

24th to 29th I spent the time in my garden in geting up my vegitables. 

30th Sunday [] } I received a Letter from I F Carter & Papers from A. Badlam. 

3 1st ^ I wrote 3 letters to Middleton & Ri[...] & Mrs Hornor & I F Carter Concerning the money 
that I sent by Wm E. Hornor. 


November 

Nov 1st Presidents Young & Kimball gone to Box Elder on a visit. I spent the time at home. 
2 d I laboured in my garden. 

3d I drew wood from City Creek Canyon & Attended a meeting of the regency but it was 
Adjourned. 


Pagel43 




4 & 5 I spent the time drawing wood. I attended the meeting of the regency at Dr Richards. 

6th Sunday O. Hyde spoke to the people in the fore part of the day & P P Pratt in the Afternoon. 
7th to 13th I spent this week geting wood out of the canyons. 

Nov 14th Sunday E. T. Benson spoke to the people in the morning & at 2 oclock the Twelve met 
with the company of Elders that were appointed to go to Green River to esstablish a station at 
that place. We blessed them & set them apart for the work. They were Addressed by W Woodruff 
& P P. Pratt who gave them good council. This is the 2d company for that place making 90 men 
for that place. 

15 & 16 Drew wood from the canyon. I met with the Regency on the evening of the 16th. 
President Young has called upon the Regency to get up a New Alphabet & make a improvement 
in the English Language & they have sat severel evenings for this purpose. 

P. P. Pratt has commenced a Spanish school. I have commenced to attend it to leam the 
Language. I attended several evenings this week laboured about home till the 19th. 

20th In company with Ezra T. Benson & Dr Andrews I rode to Toele City 34 miles & spent the 
night at Bishop Robery's. 35 mils. 

21st Sunday We rode to willow Creek settlement & Held a meeting with the people. I spoke to 
them & was followed By E. T. Benson. We dined with Bishop Thomas Clark. Their was about 
100 men in this settlement begining to Fort up & about 100 frendly Indians. All settlements are 
Councelled to live in forts untill they can wall in their Cities. At the close of this meeting I rode 
to Toela City & preached to a large congregation of Saints. I spent the night with Bishop Robery. 
25 m. 

22d I Returned to Salt Lake City but stoped on the way & appointed a site for a New Fort & City. 
35 mils. I attended the Spanish school in the Evening. 

23d I commenced ploughing a 5 Acre Lot in the big field \ & met with the regency in the 
evening. 

24 to 26 I spent the days ploughing & evenings in the Spanish school. 

27th Sunday A Rainy day. I wrote a Letter to J M Bernhisel. } I Attended quorum meeting in the 
evening. 

28 to 30 I spent the time ploughing. 


December 

Dec 1, 2, 3 I spent the days ploughing & evenings in the Spanish school. 


Page 144 




4th Sunday 4th I Attended meeting. * President Young Preached from this text Judge not that ye 
be not Judged. He gave much good instruction. In the Afternoon Orson Hyde preached unto the 
edefication of the people. The Mail came in last night. [] I Received 3 letters from Ilus Aphek L 
Woodruff & Dr Bernhisel. The president Received letters from many of the Elders who bring 
good News. War is also proclaimed between Russia & Turkey. 

5, 6, 7 I spent the time at home choreing & studying Spanish. 

8, 9, 101 spent the time at home. 

1 1th Sunday President Young Addressed the people. I reported his sermon in the afternoon & 
prepared it for the press. 

Dec 12th Monday The Legislator of the Territory of Utah Assembled at 10 oclock this morning. I 
am a member of the House & met with them. The House & Counsel both organized & 

Adjourned. 

13 Both Houses met in Joint session & recieved the Govornor & his message. 

14, 15 161 spent the time in the Legislator. I spend most of my evenings in the Spanish school. 

18th Sunday Father Morley addressed the people in the morning & President Young in the 
afternoon. 

19 to 23 I spent this week in the Legislator. 

25 Sunday Christmas. Hosea Stout who had Just returned from a mission to China Addressed the 
people on the religion customs & persuit with the present prospects of the chinees including their 
present Revolution. 

In the afternoon Claudius Spencer gave an account of his mission to England & his experience. 
During the evening I met with the 14 ward & addressed them upon the subject of Education & 
our duties to our Children. 

26th In Company with Elder P P Pratt I met with the 14 ward & Elder Pratt Delivered an Address 
to the people upon Education. I reported it. We had a party in the afternoon & evening. It passed 
of plesantly. 

27 f f I wrote 6 Letters to I F Carter J M Bernhisel Thompson O. Woodruff Ozem Woodruff 
Azmon Woodruff Aphek L. Woodruff Calafomia. I spent the day in the Legislator. 

28th } £ G I wrote a Letter to Sanbon & Carter & A few lines to J. M. Bernhisel. I mailed I F 
Carters Letter And enclosed a draft of $858.20/100 dollars. 

29th I spent the day in the Legislature. 30 I spent the day writing P P Pratts speech. 


Page 145 




3 1 F D Richards Addressed the young people & children at 1 1 oclock then again at 3 oclock for a 
social party to dance. I met with them & addressed them in the evening. They had a pleasant 
time. This is the last day in the year of 1853. 

{========================= 


Synopsis of my labors in 1853 


I Spent 210 days in overseeing the Tithing 
hands on the Temple Block. 

I spent 40 days in the Legislature 

in meeting 50 days fanning and 13 for other purposes. 

Total 365 days as Above in AD 1853. 

I Travled 

I Attended meetings at the Tabernacle 
I Preached 1 8 discourses 
I Attended 45 prayer meetings in the 
Prayer Circle with the Presidency & 

Twelve 

I Baptized 8 persons 
I Confinned 9 persons 
I administered to 5 sick persons 
I manied 2 Couple 
I met 8 Times with the Regency 
I met with the Presidency and Twelve 
In dedicating the Temple Ground in 
the City of the Great Salt Lake 
I Attended 3 Conferences 
I wrote 38 Letters 
I Received 2 1 Letters 
I located South Webber Fort 


52 Sabbaths 


100 miles 
50 meetings 
18 

45 prayer 
meetings 

8 Baptized 

9 Confirmed 
5 sick 

4 married 
8 times 


3 Con 
38 Letters 
21 Letters 
1 fort 


} 


{======================== 

Synopsis of the sum total recorded in this 
Journal during the last seven years from 1847 to 
1853 inclusive: 


I Travled 

I Attended with the Presidency & Twelve 
I spent in general Conference 


Pagel46 


18,866 miles 
217 Counsels 
15 days 




I met with the High Counsel 

15 Times 

I Preached 

326 discourses 

I Baptized 

62 persons 

I Confirmed 

I Ordained 1 presidency & counsellors 

192 persons 

for a stake of Utah 

3 

" " Patriarch 

2 

" " High Counsel 

24 

" " High Priest 

23 

" " Bishops 

1 

" " Seventies 

10 

" " Elders 

6 

I Blessed 41 Children 

I Administered the ordinances of 

41 children 

matrimony to 

12 persons 

1 Laid hands upon 134 sick persons 

134 sick 

1 wrote 517 Letters 

517 Letters 

I Received 364 Letters 
1 was Appointed a member of the 

364 Letters 

Regency. Met 

1 was Appointed a member of the 

perpetual Emigration fund. 1 met 

16 days 

with them in Council 
I was Appointed a member of the 

Legislature of Deserett also of 

7 days 

Utah Territory. Met with them 
1 was Appointed Chaplain of the Nauvoo 
Legion. 

1 was Appointed Clerk and Historian 

107 days 

for the 

1 Blessed 45 missionaries who were sent 
abroad to the world. 

\ 1 met with the Presidency & Twelve and all 
the Authorities of the Church of Jesus Christ of 
Latter Day Saints on the Temple block & dedicated 
the ground for building a Temple unto the Lord in 
the City of the Great Salt Lake. 

12 Apostles 


} 


{ 


Page 147 




Synopsis of W Woodruff travels & Journals from 
1834 to AD 1853 inclusive making Nineteen years. 


Travled during this period through England, 
Scotland, Wales, six Islands of the sea, twenty 
of the United States & three Territories including 
the rocky mountains and Utah & crossed the Atlantic 
Ocean 4 times. 

Total distance travled (80,558) 

Held public meetings & preached 
I attended in the vineyard 
86 Conferences 
I attended Elders Counsels 
I Attended General Conferences of 
the Church 

I Attended 217 Counsels with the 
Presidency & 12 

I met 1 5 times with the High Counsel 
I Baptized (696). Assisted in 

baptizing thousands of others 
I Confirmed 1,004. 1 helped confirm 
thousands of others 
I was Baptized for 36 dead friends. 

I Ordained Patriarchs 
I Ordained Bishops 
I Ordained High Counsel 
I Ordained High Priest 
I Ordained Seventies 
I Ordained Elders 
I Ordained Priests 
I Ordained Teachers 
I Ordained Deacons 
I Ordained 1 President & 2 Counsellors 
of a stake of Zion 
I Assisted the Twelve In ordaining 
200 Elders & seventies In Nauvoo 
not counted in the above number 
I Administered unto the sick by 
laying on hands 
I Blessed 235 Children 
I Administered the marriage 


80,588 miles 
1,395 times 

86 Conferences 
123 Counsels 

15 Conferences 

217 Counsels 
15 times 

696 Baptized 

1,004 Confirmed 
36 Dead 
4 Patriarchs 
10 Bishops 

24 H Counsel 

25 H Priest 
13 seventies 
162 Elders 
142 Priests 
63 Teachers 
13 Deacons 

3 


200 

498 sick 
235 Children 


Page 148 




ceremony to 

13 Couple 

I Planted 5 1 Churches 

51 Churches 

I esstablished 77 Preaching Places 

77 

I Had 10 mobs rise against me 
I Recorded in my Journals 30 of 

10 mobs 

Joseph Smith sennons 
I Recorded 25 of the sennons of the 

30 

Twelve Apostles 

25 

I Wrote 1,557 Letters 

1,557 Letters 

I Received 1 ,063 Letters 
I Collected for the Temples in 

1 ,063 Letters 

Kirtland & Nauvoo 
I Collected for Publishing the 

1,674 dollars 

works of L.D.S. 

5,000 dollars 

I Procured subscribers for ourpapers 
I Printed the Times & Seasons & Nauvoo neighbor 

205 subscribers 

in company with John Taylor for two years. We stero typed 
the doctrins & Covenants. 

I Printed 2,500 copies of the Millennum Star. 

I Published 3,000 Copies of the Doctrins & 

Covanants and secured the copy wright in England. 

I printed 3,000 Hymn Books. 

I published 20,000 Proclamations of the Twelve 
Apostles. 

I have been ordained during the foregoing period 

To the office of A Teacher, Priest, Elder, 2d quorum 

of the seventy 1st quorum of the seventies to the 
quorum of the Twelve Apostles. 

I received my washings Anointings sealings 

& Endowments under the hands of President Brigham Young. 
I was Appointed a member of the Regency. I 

met with them 16 days 
I was elected to the Legislature & spent with 

16 days 

them 

I was Appointed a Chaplain in the Nauvoo Legion. 

I was Appointed Clerk & Historian of the Twleve Apostles. 
I blessed 45 Misionaries Appointed to go to the world. 

I Attended the dedication of the Temple Ground 

in the City of the Great Salt Lake On the 6th April 
1853. 

I spent 210 days in overseeing the Tithing 

107 days 


Page 149 




Hands while diging out the foundation for the Temple. 
We laid the comor Stones of the Temple on the 6 
April 1853. 


} 


From 18564 to 1859 4 years 350 pages Note(4) 

7 

January 1st 1854 to December 31st 1859 


{========================= 

Synopsis of W. Woodruff travels & Journals from 1834 
to 1853 Inclusive making Nineteen years. 

Travled during this period through England Scotland 
Wales six Islands of the sea Twenty of the United 
States & Three Territories including the rocky mountains 
& Utah & crossed the Atlantic Ocean four times. 


Total distance Travled (80,558) 

80,558 miles 

Held Public meetings & preached 
I Attended in the vineyard 86 

1,395 times 

conferences 

86 Conferences 

I Attended Elders Counsels 
I Attended General Conferences of 

123 Counsels 

the Church 

I Attended 217 Counsels with the 

15 Conferences 

Presidency & 12 

217 Counsels 

I met 1 5 times with the High Counsel 
I Baptized (696). Assisted in 

15 Times 

baptizing thousands of others 
I Confirmed 1,004. 1 helped Confirm 

696 Baptized 

thousands 

1,004 Confirmed 

I was baptized for 36 Dead friends 

36 Dead 

I Ordained 4 Patriarchs 

4 Patriarchs 

I Ordained 10 Bishops 

10 Bishops 

I Ordained 24 High Council 

24 H Counsel 

I Ordained 25 High Priests 

25 H Priests 

I Ordained 13 Seventies 

13 Seventies 

I Ordained 162 Elders 

162 Elders 

I Ordained 142 Priests 

142 Priests 

I Ordained 63 Teachers 

63 Teachers 

I Ordained 13 Deacons 

13 Deacons 


Page 150 




I Ordained 1 president & 2 Counsellors 
of a Stake of Zion 

I assisted the Twelve in ordaining 275 

Elders & Seventies in Nauvoo not 
counted in the above April 8 1842. 
I Administered unto the sick by laying 
on of Hands 
I blessed 135 Children 
I Administered the marriage Covenant 
to 

I Planted 5 1 Churches 
I Esstablished 77 Preaching Places 
I Had 10 mobs rise against me 
I recorded in my Journals 30 of Joseph 
Smith 

I Recorded 25 of the Sermons of the 
Twelve Apostles 
I wrote 1,557 Letters 
I received 1,063 
I Collected for the Temple in 
kirtland & Nauvoo 
I Procured subscribers for our Papers 


{ 


3 


498 sick 
135 Blessed 

13 Couple 
51 Churches 
77 

10 mobs 
30 sennons 
25 

1,557 Letters 
1,063 

$1,674 dollars 
205 subscribers 

= = = = = = =} 


I Printed the Times & seasons & Nauvoo Neighbor in Company with John Taylor for two years. 
We sterrotyped the Doctrins & Covenants. 

I Printed 2,500 copies of the Millennium Star. I Published 3,000 Copies of the Doctrins & 
Covenants And secured the Copywright in England. I Published 20,000 Proclamations of the 
Twelve Apostles. 


I have been Ordained during the foregoing period To the office of Teacher Priest Elder member 
of the second quorum of Seventies first quorum of seventies & to the quorum of the Twelve 
Apostles. 

I blessed 45 missionaries Appointed to go to the world. I received my washings & Anointings 
sealings And Endowments under the hand of President Brigham Young. I received the washing 
of feet under the hand of President Heber C. Kimball. 


I was Appointed a member of the Regency And met with them 16 days. I was Appointed a 
Chaplain in the Nauvoo Legion. I was Elected a member of the Legislature And spent with them 


Pagel51 




107 days. I was Appointed Clerk & Historian of the Twelve Apostles. 


I Attended the dedication of the Temple ground in the City of the Great Salt Lake and the laying 
of the Cornor Stones of that Temple on the 6 April 1853. 

I spent 111 day in overseeing the tithing hands while diging out the foundation for the Temple. 

=========================} 

1 ========================= 


Wilford Woodruffs Journal for 1854 

* 


} 


January 

JAN 1 1854 Sunday I attended meeting at the Tabernacle. The people were addressed in an 
interesting & edifying manner in the morning By Elder Orson Hyde, In the afternoon by Elder 
Wilford Woodruff & Followed By President Brigham Young. He spoke as He always does much 
to the edifycation of the People. 

2d £ I delivered an address to the inhabitants of the 14th ward at the school House. Was 
followed by several others in the fore part of the day. I attended a party in the evening at the 
Social Hall. Time was mostly spent in music & danceing. We had However an interesting 
address from President Young on the subject of danceing. 

He said I consider this a suitable place to give some instruction. We have assembled here to have 
music & danceing. The world have had vary Strange Ideas Concerning these things. They have 
supposed it was a vary wicked thing for a Christian to dance or hear music. Many preachers of the 
day have said that fidling & music Came from Hell But I say that their is no fiddleing or music in 
hell. Their is not a fiddler in hell or any music of any kind. Music belongs in heaven to cheer 
God, Angel, & man. If we could hear the music their is in heaven it would overwhelm mortal 
man. The Lord gave us that organ that makes music so delightful to man & the Devel has Stolen 
music & many other things that was ordained of God for the Benefit of man & has turned it to an 
evil use but music & danceing is for the benefit of the Holy ones & if those that come here 
tonight are not Holy & righteous & feel to worship & Praise God they have no business here. 

What strange Idea the world has of a prophet. They would expect to see a man with finger nailes 
a foot long with his hair hanging to his hips with his body covered with dirt & filth with his head 
bowed down in sorrow for the sins of the world that He would not have a house or lie in one, or 
in a bed, but lie in the caves of the Rocks & on the Ground & must never smile or appear happy. 
And as to seeing an Apostles the people would expect to melt if one came along. 


Page 152 




But all of these Ideas are vain & foolish for this company before me to night does not begin to be 
adorned inside or out as they should be in order to meet with the Angels in heaven who are 
adorned in purity power & Glory clothed with clean white linen. 

I will say a word concerning danceing with the Gentiles. As I have got up this party If I had felt 
disposed to have invited some Gentiles here would they have contaminated me or this company? 
No because the priesthood rules here with the keys of power truth light & knowledge. And I 
would not suffer any thing that is rong for I would controll things & have them my own way or 
break up the party. But if any Elder in this church was to follow after Gentile parties they would 
submit themselves to their spirit partake of their evils & go to the devel. Any Elder would fall 
that persued this course. 

Why do not the Gentile merchants of this city embrace this work? Because they have locked 
banded & bolted their minds against it with evry lock they could put on. They swore by evry 
power they posess before they left home they would not embrace it. They came with but one 
object & that was to gain money & they are determined not to be turned from their purpose. 

Many good remarks were made by the president. I tarried at the party untill 12 oclok & then 
Returned home. 

3d I spent the fore part of the day at home writing. 

4th to 7th I spent the time at the Legislature. 

8 Sunday I attended a meeting. Lorin Far preached. I reported his sermon. 

9th to 14 I spent this week in the Legislatur. The mail [] came in this week. I received a Letter 
from Sister William Benbow & a paper from O. Pratt. 

15th Sunday We have 8 inches of snow on the ground this morning. I spent the day at home. 

16 to 20th I spent this week in the Legislature which closed on this 20 day of Jan 1854. 

21st I commenced a school this morning in my family with my own children. 

A 

22d I attended meeting at the Tabernacle & I preached in the morning to the saints from the 
following wor[k/b?]: "Whatsoever ye sow that shall you reap." I told the people that if they 
sowed good principles in their own minds & in the minds of their children that they will bring 
forth good fruit which will tend to exhaltation & glory so can we judge of the nations of the Earth 
if they indulge in sin wickedness & abominations & their Children are brought up in the same 
they must expect to reap the whirl Wind arrow & death, Judgment sorrow wo & destruction. We 
should warn our children of all danger & escape all sin ourselves. We were here in these vallies 
through the mercies of God & we should make an improvement by our situation. 


Pagel53 




President Young Preached in the Afternoon And I reported his sermon. 

At the close of the meeting I went in Company ? with President Young to see President Willard 
Richards who was vary sick with the palsy. He was in an awful spasm lying upon the floor with 
seve[r/n?] [ several ] men trying to hold him. He suffered immensly. It seemed as though he was 
strugling in the agonies of death. He had been sick several days. I spent the night with him. He 
suffered much during the night the presidency & Twelve administered to him by the laying on of 
hands & prayer. We were almost fearful that He would not recover from this sickness. Still we 
had hope. 

23d I left President Richards this morning and returned to my house & spent the day at home. 

24th I spent the day at home with my children & in the evening I delivered a lecture upon the 
subject of education in the school house of the 19th ward school house. 

25 I spent the day at home with my Children. 

26th 27 & 28 I spent the time at home in school with my Children. Dr Richards is still failing & 
suffering much. 

29th Sunday I attended with Dr Richards in the fore part of the day. He suffered much. O Hyde 
preached in the fore part of the day and P. P. Pratt in the afternoon. At the close of the meeting 
the Presidency & Twelve went to Dr Richards and Administered to him by the laying on of hands 
and we have done it freequently & at times had a testimony by the spirit of God that He would 
get better but all outward appearances have been against his getting up again. 

I met in the 14 ward school house at candle light & Preached to a full house. Was followed by P 
P Pratt. We had a good time. The spirit of the Lord was poured out upon us. At the close of the 
meeting I went to Dr Richards & spent 2 hours. He was very low & it appeared as though He 
would not live till morning. 

30th Dr Richards is alive this morning and appears some better. I wrote 2 letters to I F Carter & } 
J M Bemhisel. I spent the remainder of the day at home. 

A 

3 1st Dr Richards still lives and appears some better And I pray the Lord he may again get well 
for many reasons. One is the Twelve have administered to him many times and felt moved upon 
at times to promise him that he should live and get well and stand in the midst of his brethren and 
also to administer to his family. This I promised him once while the Twelve and all his wives 
were administering to him at the same time. 

I attended the Bishops meeting this evening with Elder Thomas Kington. I addressed the Bishops 
and had the spirit of the Lord. We are now begining to ordain our young Sons to the lesser 
priesthood here in Zion. 


Page 154 




February 

Feb 1st We are now gathering all our young Children from eight years old and upward in the 
several wards one evening in each week for the purpose of speaking and praying. I met with the 
Children in the 14 ward this evening and addressed them & herd some 50 of them speak and it 
was an interesting time. 

Feb 2d I spent the day in school with my Children. In the evening I attended the prayer meeting at 
the 14 ward school house & herd about 50 of the saints speak. I also Addressed them at the Close 
of the meeting and had the spirit of the Lord & felt well. 

\ There is one thing I will here record in my Journal which I take great pleasure in. I united with 
the Bishop & his Counsel & ordained 1 Priest 2 Teachers & 2 deacons and the Priest which I 
ordained was my ownly son now living with me Wilford Woodruff jr. He is 13 years old. He is 
now to begin to officiate in the Priest office of the lesser Priesthood. And I thank the LORD that I 
have lived to see this day when I have a son who has received the Priesthood and is recognized as 
such by the Church and is about to officiate in it. I Pray the blessings of the God of Abram Isaac 
& Jacob may rest upon him that He may honour the Priesthood all the days of his life and do 
much good in bringing many souls into the Kingdom of God and always maintain the Kingdom 
of God with all its laws & principles which may the Lord Grant for Christ sake Amen. 

2 ^ Feb 3d 1854 As my son Wilford was to commence this morning to begin to officiate in the 
priests office by going through the ward to visit the house of each member in company with 
Brother Ross in the capacity of teachers I called my family together for the purpose of Prayer and 
Dedicating my son unto the Lord. His father and mother laid hands upon his head and Dedicated 
him unto the Lord. The following is a copy of the Blessing bestowed upon his head: 

Wilford Woodruff Jr. Bom In Montrose Iowa March 22d 1840 Received the following blessing 
under the hand of his father Wilford Woodruff sen one of the Twelve Apostles City of the Great 
Salt Lake Feb 3d 1854 when he was 13 years & 323 days old. 

Wilford in the name of Jesus Christ and by virtue of the Holy Priesthood I lay my hands upon 
your head and seal upon your head a Fathers blessing and seal upon you the priesthood of Aaron 
which you have received and also to dedicate you unto God for the purpose of the ministry. I seal 
upon your head all the blessings of Abram Isaac & Jacob. I seal you up unto Eternal life and no 
power shall take your crown. And you shall live long upon the Earth and do great good and bring 
many souls into the kingdom of God. And you shall stand in the defence of Zion and if you will 
be faithful in keeping the Commandments of God you shall Receive the fulness of the priesthood 
and the Apostleship and the keys thereof and shall follow the footsteps of thy father wherein he 
has been faithful in the Apostleship. And thou shalt live and not die. 

Thy body shall not be laid in the grave but thou shalt live till the coming of Christ. Then shall thy 
body be changed in the twinkling of an eye from mortality to immortality, and Shall be caught up 


Pagel55 




to meet the Lord in the air when he shall come in the clouds of heaven to meet with the saints on 
the earth. 

Thou shalt be a great man on the Earth. Thou shall have posterity and thy sons shall bear the 
priesthood after thee. Thou shall be a comfort and consolation to thy father & Mother in their 
declining years. Thou shall cause the heart of thy mother to rejoice who has laboured hard to 
preserve thy life from thy infancy up to this day. Thou shall have power to teach the great things 
of the kingdom of God and do great miracles. Thou shall heal the sick & cast out Devils in the 
name of Jesus Christ. Thou shalt see visions & dream dreams and angels shall administer unto 
thee and teach thee great things. Thou shall see Zion esstablished in great power and glory. I seal 
all these Blessings upon you in the name of Jesus Christ Amen. 

This Blessing was sealed upon the head of my son Wilford and recorded under my hand on this 
the 3d day of Feb A.D. 1854. Wilford Woodruff sen. 


I spent most of this day in school with my Children. 

During the evening Sisters Whitney & Eliza Snow called upon us and spent the evening. We 
talked over the days of Kirtland & other times. I red over several of the old sennons of Joseph 
not recorded any whare ownly in my Journal. We spent a plesant evening. 

Before they left Sister Whitney sung in tongues in the pure language which Adam & Eve made 
use of in the garden of Eden. This gift was obtained while in Kirtland through the promise of 
Joseph. He told her if she would rise upon her feet (while in a meeting) she should have the pure 
Language. She done so and immediately commenced singing in that language. It was as near 
heavenly music as any thing I ever herd. 

4th I spent the day in school with my children. 

5 Sunday Brothers Kimball & Benson Preached to the people in the forenoon & President 
Brigham Young in the afternoon $ and it was a choice feast one of the best sennons ever 
deliverd to the people. It was rich in principles & Godliness. The hearts of the people were 
feasted and all rejoiced. 

At the close of the meeting I attended the prayer circle. Then I went to the 9th ward and preached 

&[ ]. 

6th I attended meeting with the perpetual fund company. Adjomed till 1st monday in March. I 
took out of the Library the 1st vol of Benjamin Franklin by J Spenby which consisted of 10 Vol. I 
red the first vol through which I found Highly instructing & interesting. The following is an 
extract of his rules of perfection which He endeavored to carry out in his Life. 

The names of virtues with their precepts were: 


Pagel56 





1st Temperance— Eat not to dulness; drink not to elevation. 

2d Silence— Speak not but what may benefit others or yourself. Avoid trifling conversation. 

3d Order— Let all your things have their places. Let each part of your business have its time. 

4th Resolution— Resolve to perform what you ought. Perform without fail what you resolve. 

5 Frugality— Make no experts but to do good to others or yourself. That is waste nothing. 

6th Industry— Lose no time. Be always employed in sumthing useful. Cut off all unnecessary 
action. 

7th Sincerity— Use no hurtful deceit. Think innocently and justly And if you speak speak 
accordingly. 

8th Justice— Wrong none by doing injuries or omitting the benefits that are your duty. 

9th Moderation— Avoid extremes. Forbear resenting injuries so much as you think they deserve. 
10 Cleanliness— Tolerate no uncleanliness in boby Clothes or habitation. 

1 1th Tranquility— Be not disturbed at trifles or at accidents common or unavoidable. 

12 Chastity... [The ellipses are Woodruffs .] 

13 Humility— Imitate Jesus and Socrates. 

Says Franklin: My intention being to acquire the habit of all these virtues I judged it would be 
well not to distract my attention by attempting the whole at once but to fit it on one of them at a 
time & when I should be master of that, then to procede to another, & so on till I should have 
gone through the 13. And as the previous acquisition of some might facilitate the acquisition of 
certain others I aranged them with this view as they stand above. Temperance first as it tends to 
procure that cooleness & clearness of head which is so necessary whare constant vigilance was to 
be up and a guard maintained against the unremiting attraction of ancient habits and the force of 
perpetual temptations. 

This being acquired and esstablished, Silence would be more easy and my desire being to gain 
knowledge at the same time that I improved in virtue & considering that in conversation it was 
obtained rather by the use of the ear than of the tongue. And therefore wishing to break a habit I 
was getting unto of prattling, punning, and jesting which ownly made me acceptable to trifling 
company, I gave silence the second place. This and the next order I expected would allow me 
more time for attending to my project and my Studies. Resolution once become habitual would 
keep me firm in my endeavours to obtain all the subsequent virtues Frugality and industry 
releiving me from my remaining debt and producing affluence and independance would make 
more easy the practice of sincerity & Justice &c &c. 


Page 157 




Conceiving then that agreeable to the advice of Pythagoras in the golden verses daily 
examination would be necessary, I contrived the following method for conducting that 
examination. I made a little Book in which I allotted a page for each of the virtues. I ruled each 
page with red ink so as to have seven columns One for each day of the week. Marking each 
Column with a letter for the day I crossed these columns with 13 red lines marking the begining 
of each line with the first letter of one of the virtues on which line and in its proper column I 
might mark by a little black spot every fault I found upon examination to have been committed 
respecting that virtue upon that day. 

Form of the Pages 
TEMPERANCE 

Eat not to dulness, drink not to elevation 
Sun M T W Th F S 

Tern 

Sil x 

Ord x 

Res 
Fru 
Ind 
Sine 
Jus 
Mod 
Clea 
Tran 
Chas 
Hum 

I was detennined to give a weeks strict attention to each of the virtues successively. Thus in the 
first week my great guard was to avoid even the least offence against temperance leaving the 
other virtues to their ordinary Chance ownly marking evry evening the faults of the day. Thus if 
in the first week I could keep my first line marked T Clear of spots I supposed the habit of that 
virtue so much strengthened and its opposite weakened that I might venture extending my 
attention to include the next and for the following week keep both lines clear of spots. Proceding 
thus to the last I could get through a course complete in 13 weeks and four courses in a year. And 
like him who having a garden to weed does not attempt to eradicate all the bad barbs at once 
which wood exceed his reach and his strength but works on one of the beds at a time and having 
accomplished the first procods to a second so I should have. I hoped the encouraging pleasure of 
seeing on my pages the progress made in virtue by clearing successfully my lines of their spots 
till in the end by a number of Courses 1 should be happy in viewing a Clean Book after a thirteen 
weeks daily examination. 


X 

X 


X 

X 


X 

X 

X 



X 

X 



X 


x 


Pagel58 




This my little Book had for its motto these lines from Addisons Cato: 

Here will I hold if there’s a power above us 
And that there is all nature cries aloud. 

Through all her works He must delight in virtue 
And that which he delights in must be happy. 

Thus I have copied so much out of the life of Franklin thinking it an excellent & worthy example 
and hoping it may do me or my children or some other persons some good. Another principle of 
Dr Franklins life & recommendations is vary good under many circumstances in life. He 
recommends to all persons in the pulpit at the bar, in debate, in conversation to take the moderate 
ground in Phraseology to say I think or apprehend, I believe or I am of the opinion that things are 
thus & so, and not that I know, I declare, I affirm, that things are thus and so. 

7th I spent the day at home with my children. 

8 9 10 & 1 1 I spent the time in school with my children. I attended meeting in the 14 ward with 
the Children on the 8th & had a good time. We are now holding meetings in the different wards 
through the city with \ the Children. We get all the children over 8 years of age together & learn 
them to pray & speak of the things of God and it is having a good influence. Their is a great 
responsibility resting upon the parents towards their Children. 

12 Sunday John Taylor addressed the saints in the forenoon and President Young in the 
afternoon. He delivered one of the most interesting discourses ever delivered to the people. I did 
not report it but others did and it will be printed. 

13th 14 I spent the time with my children in school. 

Feb 15th I spent the time in school. Attended the children meeting in the evening. Near one 
hundred were present & prayed & spoke & sung. 

16th I spent the time at home during the day in school & the evening with the children of the 19th 
ward. 

17th & 18 I spent the time trying to settle accounts. 

19 2 ^ Sunday E. D. Woolley was called upon to preach a f[i/u?]nal sermon or rather upon the 
resurrection of the dead as some of the saints had advanced some eronious ideas concerning the 
resurrection. Brother Woolley had some incorrect ideas. When he closed President Young 
followed & made many good remarks. He said that we should have the same bonefid identical 
body that our spirit occupied while in this life. Our graves would Utterly be opened and our 
bodies come forth. The question was asked if children that died in infancy lost any thing. He said 
No a person would not loose anything they Had not got. Children that died in infancy would be 
provided for in some way. 


Page 159 




He said that our GOD was Father Adam. He was the Father of the Savior Jesus Christ. Our God 
was no more or less than ADAM, Michael the Arkangel. I attended meeting in the prayer circle 
in the evening & then went & preached to the 13 ward. 

20th I spent the day at home in school with my Children. 

21st I spent the day in the Counsel House. Elder Kimball Taylor deliverd a long and interesting 
address in the evening. Among his remarks he said when strong drink or any evil thing brings a 
man down from his dignity to a brute it has no power to exhalt him. I spent the evening with the 
12 ward. <President Young was in the Council House this day.> 

22d I spent the day at home & attended meeting in the evening at the 14 ward with the children & 
had a good time. 

23d I spent the day at home with my children. 

24th I spent the day at home in the Counsel House and herd an interesting discours from Elder 
Kimball. 

25th I spent the day at home with my children in school. 

26 Sunday we have a severe snow storm through this day. I spent the day at home. 

27th The estem mail came in to day. Brought dates up to Dec 22d containing the fl[oa/ee?]ting 
news of the day. Europe is in war China in revolution. Harpers Book esstablishment burnd up at 
New York with many other things on the move. 

28 } [] I received two letters from Ilus & wrote 2 letters to Ilus. Sent by mail $70 to him. I also 
wrote a letter to J. M. Bernhisel. Mrs Woodruff wrote a long letter to her Father. I spent most of 
the day in the Counsel House. 


March 

\ March 1st 1854 This is my birth day. I am 47 years old this day So my days, months, years, & 
life is passing away. I thank my Heavenly Father that it has been preserved so long. I pray that I 
may have grace according to my day. I pray that the spirit of God may abide with me & keep my 
footsteps in the paths of virtue, integrity, & Holiness all the days of my life and that I may have 
favor in the sight of God & his servants. I spent most of this day at home. 

2d I met with the 14 ward at the school house as a fast day for prayer & the worship of God. We 
had a house full & the spirit of God was poured out upon us. I confinned 10 that had been 
Baptized this morning. I ordained 1 Priest & laid hands upon 3 that were sick. Dr Richards is still 
vary sick & weak. I addressed the Saints. Many spoke prayed & sung. One spoke in tongues & 
Brother Covington interpeted it. The following is the substance of it: 


Page 160 




That you should not give heed to the medium & spirit rappers that are in the land. For when the 
Lord sent the Holy Ghost anciently to the servants of God it came in the form of a dove. And 
when the Holy Ghost came to Abraham while He was bound & about to be slain by the Priest of 
Elkena He came in the form of a Dove & so when He came to Jesus He came in the fonn of a 
Dove. We continued our meeting through evening & had a good time. 

3d Wilford went out today on a mission in the 14 ward as a priest. I spent most of the day at 
home writing. The Calafornia mail came in. The world seems to be in confusion. Europe is 
begining to be involved in war. Calafornia is resolved to drive the Indians of the state. Santa 
Anna is proclaimed Emperor of Mexico & it is reported that He has sold three states to the 
United States for twenty three & a half Millions of Dollars & Plagues famine pestilence & war 
seems to be poured out upon almost all the Earth. I laid hands upon Brth Ira Ames who was sick 
And He immediately recovered. 

4th I spent the day in school with my Children. 

5 Sunday Brother O Hyde Preached in the forenoon & W. Woodruff & Lorenzo Snow in the 
afternoon. It was quite a stormy day. 

6th I spent the day at home in study. 

7th I spent the day at home & attended meeting in the evening at the 14th ward. Wheellock & 
Hollady preached And I followed them. We had much of the spirit of God resting upon us. 

8th I spent the day at home in study with my Children & I spent the evening in the Prayer 
meeting in the 14th ward with the Children. All the Children over 8 years of age meet in the 
different wards of the City for Prayer one night in each week & they have interesting meetings & 
I think much good will grow out of it. 

9th I spent the day at home in my school. 

10th \ I met in Council with Brother Kimball & the 12.1 ordained 2 Elders. We had a good 
Counsel & Elder Kimball gave a strong pointed lecture for 3 Hours & spoke upon almost evry 
species of sin & warned the Elders that were going out on missions to be vary careful to keep all 
the commandments of God that they might be saved from sorrow, disgrace misery & suffering 
which is the effects of sin. May all men give heed to such counsel & practice it in their lives & it 
will save them much sorrow. 

I met with the 70s in the 14 ward school House. Many bore testimony to the work of God. I also 
Joined my testimony with them. At the close of the meeting by request of the president of the 
quorum of seventies I Joined him & ordained members into the quorum of Seventies. 

{W Richards Died March 1 1th AD 1854} March 1 1th 1854 President Willard Richards departed 
this life this morning at about 30 minutes past 9 oclock. After President Richards was reduced as 


Pagel61 




it were to deaths door by the laying on of hands & the prayer of faith He was raised up so that He 
walked about his rooms & appeared as though he was going to get well. But he has taken a relaps 
& been failing for several days & this morning He appeared wors & the Twelve were sent for to 
Come & Administer to him. But before we could get there He was dead. He droped away almost 
with[out] any struggle or a groan. 

Thus closes the life of Brother Williard Richards. He has been a man of strict integrity to his 
brethren & his God. I have travled with him many miles both in England & America. We have 
been wann associates many times. He has been the Historian of the Church many years. He stood 
in Carthage Jail while the bullets flew like hail around him & Joseph & Hiram two prophets of 
God were martered by his side & brother Taylor fell pearced with many balls but did not die. 

He has been a great Counsellor in the Church & kingdom of God and He has died a mighty man 
in Israel. O what sweet counsel he has given me from time to time & many of the saints of God. 
He has po[sse]ssed a strong mind a mighty intellect & a valuable peculiar combination of 
intellect & such another the world can Hardly produce. He is the first man that has died a natural 
death in this Church & kingdom from the first Presidency or Twelve Apostles. All that have died 
before have been martered. 

March 12th 1854 In company with Levi Richards & GA. Smith I called upon President Brigham 
Young at his room as He was not able to get out & conversed with him concerning the buriel of 
the corps of President Willard Richards. He Advised us to bury him at 2 oclock. 

I went to meeting in the morning at the Tabernacle and Jedediah M. Grant Preached to the People 
Concerning executing the Law of God upon all persons who broke their Covenants. 

We met at President Richards House at 2 oclock to ^ attend to the burial of the body of Wilard 
Richards. President Young was not able to be present with us. President Heber C. Kimball took 
Charge of the ceremony. G. A. Smith made the Prayer. He prayed earnestly for President Young 
Heber C. Kimball & the Person who should be Chosen as the successer of Willard Richards. 

Also for the Twelve Apostles that they might prove true to their integrity as brother Richards had 
done even to the end. He prayed for his wives & Children that the spirit of Willard might rest 
upon his oldest son Heber John that He might stand at the Head of his Fathers House in dignity & 
honour. He prayed for all his brothers & sisters that they all might carry out the counsel of their 
father. He prayed for all the Relatives of Brother Richards & in fine for all the Church & 
Kingdom of God. Elder Watt reported his prayer so I do not enter into the particulars of it. 

At the close of the prayer the possession was fonned. Brother Kimball & Bishop Hunter 
Partridge Whitney walked forward of the corps & the quorum of the Twelve Apostles walked by 
the side of the Corps & the wives & Children & relatives followed the corps & the possession 
formed behind them & while going to the grave two bands of music played a solom death march. 

After the corps was lowered into the vault Elder Orson Hyde deliverd a short address upon the 
occasion & the remarks were vary appropriate. He said he was the first person that had died a 


Page 162 




Natural death either from the first Presidency or quorum of the Twelve Apostles. All that had 
died before had been martered & that Brother Richards was in Jail with Joseph & Hiram when 
they were martered. He said Brother Richard had proven himself true & faithful untill death. He 
was a man of the strictest integrity & had now gone home to meet Joseph & Hiram [on] the other 
side of the veil. Many good remarks were made upon the occasion & reported By Brother Watt. 

While the remarks were being made the time which I had spent with Brother Richards in a 
foreign country came to my mind & I felt Solumn & lonesome under it. After the burial I called 
upon the family & conversed with them. 

I Attended the prayer meeting with the Twelve & then with Brother Kimball & Franklin Richards 
to Dr Richards House & spent the evening with the family & Brother Kimball conversed with 
them till 9 oclock & gave them much Counsel. The following are some of the sentiments & 
council given: 

He said that He believed that the saints [on] the other side of the veil in the spirit world are 
gathered together the same as they are in this life while the world are scattered over the earth 
after death the same as they are now and in the same Confusion & that their would be head 
quarters of the gathering whare they would send out messengers to preach the gospel to the 
spirits in prision. He advised the family all to hold together & remain as they were on his 
inheritants & not marry again but to keep themselves for him & to be united together & assist 
each other all they can. 

13th } I wrote 2 letters one to L. N. Scovil & one to Brother Hoyt. 

14th $ I spent the day in the Counsel House with Brother Kimball & the Twelve. Brother 
Kimball spoke upon principle & Counsel for four Hours. He spoke many good great & glorious 
truths to the people. (He spoke of the sorrow & tribulation to those who broke the Law of God.) 

15th I spent the day at home writing. I spent the evening in meeting with the Children. 

16th I spent the day at home. 

17th I spent the day in the Counsel House & had good instruction]. 

18th I spent this day riding to Grantsville. I rode 47 miles & was vary weary. Spent the night at 
Bishops Clarks. 47. 

19 Sunday I Preached to a large Congregation in grantsville in the morning. Gave them counsel 
to Close up their fort. Their was many Indians with them though friendly. After meeting I rode 12 
miles to Toille City & Preached to the People in the evening. I spent the night with Bishop 
Roberry. 12 mi. 

20th In Company with Brother Maugn I rode to Brother Bates. From thence to the new City near 
Bensons mill & held a meeting with the people & they all agreed to build in a fort. I spent the 


Page 163 




night with brother Mecham. 15. 

211 rode to salt Lake City & spent the night at home. 25 miles. 

22d [] I Received a letter from J. M. Bernhisel Containing some News paper scraps. 

23 24 & 25 I spent the time ploughing& scrapeing on the city wall. 

26 Sunday I spent the day in the Tabernacle. Elder Taylor spoke in the forenoon & W. Woodruff 
& Lorenzo Snow spoke in the Afternoon. I attended meeting with the Presidency & 12 in the 
evening. 

27th \ The Twelve met at my house this evening to Bless the missionaries who were going to 
England. We had a good meeting. Elder Franklin Richards was to preside over the mission. He 
received his blessing on Sunday evening. Those that received their blessing this evening to go to 
England were George Grant Wm. Kimball Joseph Young Edmund Elsworth Brother Little & 
another Brother. We also blessed Brother Kesler & Hollady to go to the states. Many goods 
remarks were made & good blessings given them. 

28 I spent this day on the wall. 

29th I made a sheet Iron pan to day to set in an arch. I attended a meeting to night with the 
children. 

30 } I wrote a letter of instruction to Levi Stewart & sent by him a draft of $200 to Sanbon & 
Carter. 

3 1st I spent the day making an arch for the pan. 

April 

April 1st Brother Levi Stewart started east this morning with the mail. I gave him $100 in gold to 
send to Sanbon & Carter making $300 in all which I send by him. 

2d Sunday I attended meeting at the Tabernacle. Elder P. P. Pratt spoke in the morning. W. 
Woodruff followed. In the afternoon J. M. Grant spoke. I attended the prayer meeting in the 
evening & then preached in the 14 ward school House. 

3d I commenced to day to make molasses from parsnips. It done well. 

4 * Sarah was deliverd of a son this morning at 30 minuts past 3 oclock & doing well. I spent the 
day making molasses. 

5 I spent the day making molasses. I made about 15 Gallons during the last 3 days. 

Thursday April 6th 1854 General Conference of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints 
met this morning in the Tabernacle of the Lord. The Conference opened by singing & Prayer by 


Page 164 




President Kimball. President B Young then arose & addressed the people upon the business of 
the conference the death of Willard Richards filling his place, Appointing new gathering places 
for the Saints & many other things. The reporters wrote what was spoken. He was followed by 
President Kimball who also spoke well. 

PM. Elder O Hyde Addressed the meeting in the afternoon. Was followed by G. A. Smith & 
President Young concerning the indian war Waker &c. Much good instruction was given. 
Conference adjourned till tomorrow 10 oclock. 

Their was preaching during the evening at the Tabernacle By the High Priests quorum. The 
meeting was Addressed by Bishop Petegrew Phineas Young, Gifford Haywood John Neff, & 
several in the congregation that I did not know. The meeting Closed by an address from W 
Woodruff & J M Grant upon the Law of consecration. 

1 met In Counsel with President Young & counsel & the 12, And P P Pratt was Appointed to go 
to Hornors Ranch in Calafomia to esstablish a stake. Erastus Snow was appointed to go to St 
Louis to take charge of the Saints in that Land & O Pratt to take charge of the Stake in 
Cincinnati. 

April 7th Conference opened at 10 oclock. Prayer by Lorenzo Snow. H. C. Kimball made some 
remarks. He said that what President Young had presented to the people to Carry out was ownly 
what we had in our Houses for years all have to be purchased even George Watt [sic] . I want all I 
have to be secure in the kingdom of God. If the Presidency & Twelve enter into this order they 
will swollow up the whole Church in a little time & also the whole world as Joseph did in Egypt. 
The Plurality of wives was esstablished & many of you have fought it & you may fight it untill 
you go into your graves & it will still be the work of God & will Continue to be to all Eternity. 

President Young followed upon the subject of Consecration & tithing & his remarks will be 
published hereafter. 

2 oclok P.M. Singing Prayer by W. Woodruff. All took seats on the outside the Tabernacle. Their 
was about 7,000 people present. They were addressed by P. P. Pratt. The following persons were 
called to go on Missions: P P Pratt to San Jose, O Pratt & O Spencer to Cincinnati Erastus Snow 
to St. Louis. The Above brethren were to Esstablish stakes to gather the saints to them. 7 to the 
pacific Island & 9 to the United States. 

6 oclok in the evening the seventies met in the Tabernacle & were Addressed by the Presidency 
of the Seventies. 

April 8th Conference was called to order by President Kimball. Prayer by Elder Benson. Then the 
business of the conference was presented before the people. All the Authorities of the Church 
were sustained. Then many received their Appointments to go on mission to different parts all ol 
which are published in the Deserett News of April 13. 

April 9th Congregation met in the open air north side of the Tabernacle. Prayer by Elder Hyde. 


Page 165 




Lorenzo Snow spoke upon the subject of Life & Salvation. Other names were presented for a 
mission. 

2 PM. Prayer by W Woodruff. Other men were called to go on missions. Counsellor J M Grant 
Appointed all the Bishops Elders Priests & all the male member of the Church policemen to 
preserve the inhabitants in peace safety & virtue. 

President Young brought the conference to a close & Adjourned this conference to the 27 June 
next at 10 AM to meet at this place. I have not written the procedings of this conference in this 
Journal as they are all reported by G. D Watt & published in the News. 

I Attended the prayer meeting with the Presidency & Twelve And President Young said while 
remarking upon the offices of the Priesthood that the seventies hold all the Keys in the Church & 
Kingdom of God on earth & if the 12 were dead they would have to Ordain all the offices of the 
Church for they are all High Priests & Apostles. I told Joseph Young to have the 70 All ordained 
Apostles. 

It is perfectly right to take High Priests & make Teachers of them. 

April 10 11 & 121 spent the time ploughing my Garden & preparing it for planting. The mail 
came in & I got } 3 letters from J. H Jones J. M. Bernhisel & Thompson Woodruff. We learned 
by mail that their was a fair prospect of a General European war. 

13 14 & 151 spent this time in planting potatoes corn, peace & flour. I met with the brethren & 
Attended to the blessing of [15?] missionaries. 

16 Sunday John Taylor spoke in the forenoon. In the afternoon B Clapp O Hyde, & E Snow 
spoke. I met the 12 at 7 ock to Bless the missionaries who are going out on mission. We blessed 
35 & returned to our homes. 

17 & 181 Rode to Gardners Mill to white fort & H[...len?] fort & back again & Salt Lake City. 
Distance 70 mils. 

19th We had a shower of rain. I spent the time at home writing. 

20th I spent most of the day with G. A. Smith in the Historians office. I left with him 4 volums of 
my Journal including 1840 to 46 inclusive. 

April 211 spent the day draging a 5 Acre lot for corn. 0 1 set to day for the first time to have my 
Portrait drawn by Mr Cavalio the Jewish Artist that came with Mr Freemont. He commenced one 
also for Brother A O Smoot. I took a social ride with President Young. He gave me an invitation 
to go with him on his Journey to Iron County. 

23d Sunday I attended meeting. A. O Smoot preached in the fore part of the day. I reported his 
sermon. He treated upon the scattering & gathering of Israel. Brother Martindale preached in 
the afternoon & President Young followed with some remarks upon His Journey south. He also 


Page 166 




followed A. O. Smoot in the morning upon the subject of the sugar works. I Attended the prayer 
circle at 5 oclock. 


I Also met with the Missionaries in the evening in company with O Hyde P P. Pratt W. 

Woodruff, J Taylor G. A. Smith & E Snow of the Twelve & we blessed about 40 Elders who 
were set apart to go to different parts of the Earth. At the Close of the blessing they were 
Addressed by P P Pratt upon their outfit with Mules & waggons as best to Cross the plains & 
deserts. Horses next to mules but dont take oxen. GA. Smith Addressed them upon keeping a 
Journal & History of their travels & the dealings of God with them in gifts Healings &c. J Taylor 
Addressed them upon the subject of keeping the Commandments of God & not become defiled 
with women or any Evil. O Hyde spoke his feelings to them upon things in general. W Woodruff 
said Amen to the whole. 

24th I set for my likeness in the morning then } returned & wrote 4 letters to Wm. E. Homer J. H. 
Jones I F Carter & J. M. Bemhisel. 

24 to 28 I spent this week farming puting in potatoes & corn. 

29th } I wrote 2 letters to Milo Andrews & Sanbon & Carter. Enclosed in their Letter a draft upon 
Livingston & Kinkade of $300. 1 also sent $100 in gold to Sanbon & Carter by Milo Andrews. 

30th Sunday Joseph Young preached in the Tabernacle in the forenoon. Was followed by H. C. 
Kimball. In the afternoon Elder P P Pratt Preached. 

I attended the Prayer Circle, after which I visited Father John Smith the Patriarch who lay at the 
point of death. His sons G. A. Smith & John L Smith his sons were watching over him with the 
Greatest care & Attention. His mind & memory was as clear & strong & his intellectual powers 
as operative as in any day of his life. 


May 

May 1st The Eastern Mail came in this morning. [] I received 5 Letters 3 from J M Bemhisel 2 
from I. F. Carter & Mrs Woodruff 1 from Ilus. } I wrote 2 letters to I. F. Carter & J. M. Bemhisel. 

JOURNEY May 3d Presidents Young & Kimball with a Company Left the salt Lake City to visit 
all the southern settlements. I left with them. I had Tmman O Angel & Dr Sprague as my 
Companions. I drove to Bishop Smoots. At the sugar works they stoped untill Brother Angel 
Could lay out a part of the sugar works. 

Mrs Woodruff & Child rode down there with me. I parted with them at this place & drove to 
Union ward & spent the night. Silas Richards is Bishop. Distance 12 mile. 

We held a meeting in the evening. President Young Addressed the People. I was not in at the 
Commencement & had no chance of reporting his discourse. The following is a key to his 
address which I have to write from memory: 


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I do not wish to spend my time neither is it profitable?] for any man to spend his time in telling 
the people what was done in the days of Adam, Enoch & Noah thousands of years ago or what 
will be done in the melinum thousands of years hence but my business is to tell the people what 
they should do to day in order to be saved. This is my doctrin all the time. 

What can I do or this people do this day in any one thing in order to help build up the kingdom of 
God or to advance one step further towards the salvation of ourselves or our brethren? Now what 
has been the counsel to this people throughout this Territory for several years? It has been to Fort 
up, to wall in your Cities with strong walls. This has been the voice of the Lord unto them all the 
day long. Have the people listened to this voice? Have they carried out this counsel? No they 
have not. But what have they done? They have been ready to say what need hath the Lord of this 
thing? Do you think there is any danger of the Indians? Do you think that Brother Brigham really 
believes that it is necessary to go to so much expens in building walls around our cities? Instead 
of going to work & doing what they are told to do the people spend their time in talking about it 
& trying to evade it. 

Now I wish to ask a question. The Lord has appointed me to lead this people. The people has 
chosen me as their leader & Covenanted to sustain me & obey my counsel. Now if I tell the 
people what to do & they do not do it nor carry out my counsel, but turn from it & go to work & 
do sumthing els & they continue this year after year while at the same time I am warning them of 
the danger of their Course & telling them of the Judgments that will come upon them if they do 
not alter their cours & go to work & do as I have told them do you suppose they will escape the 
chastening rod of the Almighty? No they will not. If the people Continue to persue this Course & 
the Chastening rod does not fall upon their heads I should become disgraced in the sight of God 
Angels & men. 

This people may rest assured that they are preparing a rod for their backs if they do not listen to 
my counsel & do what I tell them. But says one I would go to work & help build a wall around 
the City if I knew it was a Revelation from God & that it was his will that we should do it. I want 
to say to such that it is my will that you should do it & that is enough. I am responsible for it & if 
you want to know any further about it do right. Pray unto the Lord & have faith before him that 
you may have visions & revelations from God So that you may understand the truth & know 
what lies before us as I do. Then you will not question the reasonableness of these things but go 
to work & do them with all your might. 

My teaching is to tell the people what to do to be saved to day. For if you get out of the path of 
salvation today you are in danger of being out of it tomorrow & the further you stray from it the 
more difficulty you will meet with in ever finding it again. It would be folly in me to spend my 
time in telling the people about the glories of the Millennium while I see them straying from 
those paths that would lead to those glories. 

Now many of this people will say I have fine farms, Horses, Cattle goods gold & riches. The 
possesser says I look upon them. I say thes are mine & at the same time you do not once even 


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think that there is not one thing in your possession that is yours that it all belongs to God & even 
you yourself belongs to God & all you have belongs to Him & He has ownly loaned it to you & 
yet you do not acknowledge his hand in any thing while you should acknowledge his hand in all 
things. 

I know what the design of the Lord is in leading this people to this place & his design 
Concerning Israel and it is none of your business what I counsel you to do. It is your business to 
go to work & do it. Leave the event with God. 

I want this people to build their forts as I tell them & when you have built this fort & made a wall 
6 feet thick & 12 feet high & got comfortable in your houses then go to work & build one on the 
outside of it 12 feet thick & run them both up together 25 feet high & keep building untill I tell 
you to stop, & be in a situation that you may shut up your gates & lie down & sleep in safety with 
your wives & children. Many other interesting remarks were made by President Young upon this 
occasion which I am not able to record. 

May 5th Friday We left Union fort rode to dry creek settlement made a short halt then drove to 
the American fort 25 miles & spent the night. The people Assembled for a meeting. I was called 
upon to address the people. The following is a key to the remarks which I made: 

I said to the people that I should confine my remarks to those things that immediately consem us. 
You have [been] counselled to build forts & wall in your cities with strong walls for several years 
throughout this Territory but the people have not done it. They have vary slow to harken to the 
counsel of the servants of God from the begining even in the days of Joseph all the people were 
ready to acknowledge he was a profit & looked to him to receive salvation at his hands & was 
ready to have him controll them in all matters appertaining to what the people termed spiritual 
things but if He wanted $100 dollars in money He would have to Employ all the Twelve & 
mortgage his farm in order to get it. The traditions of the people were so strong that they could 
not bear the Idea of having a Prophet dictate their temporal affairs. 

But I wish to ask a question. Which is the most important to you A part in the first resurrection in 
exaltation & glory in the Celestial kingdom of God with all its attended blessings or a few 
Horses, Cattle gold & goods? Judge ye then why should it be thought a thing incredible or unjust 
for a profit of God who is called to guide & controll us in all the weighty matters that consem us 
should also counsel us in those lesser matters of every day life? Now go to & build your wall 
around your City as you have been Commanded to do & the blessings of God will rest upon you. 
But if you refuse to follow the counsel given there is a rod preparing for you & it will be but a 
short time before you will see the law of God visible in the counsel that has been given to this 
people in building strong walls around these Cities. Many other remarks was made but not here 
recorded. 

President Kimball followed & said that what Brother Woodruff had said was true. His words are 
true. President Young comes here to visit the people & tell them what He wants done. He has 
sent men to you also to tell you what to do & that is the same as though he had been with you 


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himself. You have got to follow his counsel And you have to fulfill your covenants which you 
made at the waters of Baptism. 

We must not forget God. He intends we shall do that which we ought to do. When God tells us to 
do any thing we should go to work & do it willingly. I am telling what is our duty. 

Many often want to Jump over under officers so as to get to President Young. I have lived in the 
days of Joseph & in the days of President Young & I have always obeyed those men for they 
were placed over me to obey them. It is the duty of this people to obey their leaders. It is the duty 
of my family to obey me. 

I have no misteries to give you for I have none. But my business is to teach you the truth well. 
You are told to make a wall around your city and you have it to do. You read in the Book of 
mormon that the people had to wall in their cities in ancient days. We have it to do in our day. 
You have to become one or you are not the Lords. You are a good people but their is great room 
for improvement in this city [ ] the last one that we visited. I would like to see this people in 

good houses & gardens & in good forts. 

Now when you come to the conference you all vote to sustain Presidet Young. Now you have got 
to honour this man. He holds the ^ of the kingdom of God and sustain him or the Lord will not 
save & exhalt you in his kingdom. I pray that you may do right & serve the Lord. I ask it in the 
name of Jesus Christ Amen. 

President Young arose and said I am willing to say a few words. If the Latter Day Saints cannot 
become one hart & mind & work in their temporal things which they do understand they cannot 
become one in Eternal things which they cannot understand. If you would do as you are told then 
all would be right. When the Lord requires any thing at your hands do not ask any questions but 
go to & do as you are counselled to do. You may ask is their any danger of the Indians? You do 
not always know what danger you are in but always do as you are told & then you are safe. 

Saturday 6th Rode to provo 12 mils. Spent the Sabbath /Battle Creek 3 mils/ and held a meeting 
with the people. President Young arose & said that I am not in the habit of taking a text but I will 
now take for my text the last line that was sung "God is his own interpetor." 

He will make all things plain but do the people understand those things which are for our good? 
The Lord will not explain all things unto us. He understands but he will make his people walk by 
faith. He will not explain all his misteries to the people. We read in the New Testament that faith 
is the assurance of things hoped for & the evidence of things not seen. Have we all got faith? It is 
our duty to have faith in God & his word & promises. You have to trust in God. He will not 
reveal all things unto us. Some men are tried with the counsel given & will not obey. They will 
not have glory in the kingdom of God. They are bastards & not sons. The Lord intends for the 
people to be tried so as to prove the faithful. 

What God does reveal? He reveals for the purpose of leading men in the way of salvation. The 


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people do not know the way of the Lord. They come here and say I am going to build myself up. I 
have to work so hard I cannot get time to pray. But are you doing right when you do this? We 
may labour to get all things abot us yet the Lord will controll it as seemath him good. If you get 
into the dark still hold on to the work of God. No matter if I dont fell like praying I will do it. 

If the Lord should open the visions of the minds of the people that have gone to Calafomia so 
that they could see things as they are they would as soon cut their throats as to have done it but 
they dont see it. They have to go and suffer untill they are satisfied. I will say the same to this 
people. If we do not do the things which god requires of us we shall be whiped till we are sore. 
This is the ownly thing that will save us. I now tell you that those that are gone & going to 
Calafomia without counsel will ketch it till they are sore. 

I know the truth but I cannot tell it all to you untill God pennits me to do it. Now if you have not 
Confidence in me to follow me & believe that I am doing right drop me and appoint another & I 
will follow in the wake. 

In the begining of this work God tried to get this people to be one but they would not be one. I 
will now tell you what to do. God intends to make you one you must be one & their must be a 
begining to this and you must begin in small things like children making Cob Houses. The people 
went to Missouri & there they quarrelled about many small matters. Then God said I will throw 
down their good houses & God drove all the people out & they thought they were knocked into 
[a] pi[t]. Did they do any better then? Note(5) No they did not. 

God tries the people both in riches & with poverty. If I will be faithful in my poverty I will own 
all riches that is needful. Now God wants us to be of one heart & one mind. Now he may have no 
other motive in view than to make us work together. He will tell us to build fences & forts that 
our feelings & interest may be united in something. Now will you do it? We are required to 
become of one heart & mind & work together in those little things that we do understand or else 
we could not be prepared to work together and be one in those eternal things which we do not 
understand. Therefore we could not enter into the kingdom of God. 

It is nothing but the power of God that has preserved this settlement. The Indians could have 
killed every man woman & child here, & not a man had a gun ready to defend himself. 

When you have become of one heart & mind he has treasures for you & has given us capacity to 
see if we will magnify our calling with every thing we have to do in our lives. 

We are approaching very swiftly the time when Jesus will come to see if we are of one heart & 
mind which the Prophet Joseph said would be in this generation & will manifest himself to the 
Saints & take up his abode with him. This was said 2 [.] years ago & in 26 years more if we are 
not prepared to meet Jesus [-] angels we shall be wiped out & sent to hell. We are fast 
approaching the time. 

I do not care what was done in the morning of creation or the days of Noah. I want to know what 


Pagel71 




this people will do. Will you be Saints & live your religion & magnify your callings in the 
Church? I will now tell this people what they should do. I will tell the Bishop in the presence of 
the people what to do. Bishop I tell you, go & start this wall & build it 6 feet thick & 12 or 14 
feet high. Shut up every gate except two & then you can lay down in safety & an enemy cannot 
come upon you. If this is not the will of the Lord I do know it is my will & you should not 
question any further. God wants it done & I want it done & dont stop until you are secured & that 
is enough. Your stacks have been so placed that one Indian could fire all this place & others 
shoot you down while you are fighting the fire. 

What if the people in Jackson Co. had been good & been sanctified? What would have been the 
situation of the people? Why, the liars & goats would have had their heads cut off. But the wheat 
& tares had to be transplanted together in the wilderness. It was not the act of Joseph that caused 
the removal of this people. It is the people that govern & control which is the democracy of 
heaven. The democracy of earth is division and mark it, there will be a division here before long 
among this people. Now if you will all do right & live a holy life angels will come & visit us & 
stay with us all night & you will have many revelations & be happy. We know we ought to pray 
& would not neglect it if we loved the Lord. You may do just as you have a mind to when I am 
gone but I beg & beseech of you to do right. I want you to build a strong wall & be safe so that 
whatever conies along you may be secure & bar your gates & be careful & dont let the devil reign 
in you & all will be right & God bless you & I bless you. Let us be of one heart & mind in the 
things that we do comprehend & then we shall be one in things we shall hereafter know. 

Pres. H C Kimball: It is not my place to get up to reveal any thing for it is the head to convey it to 
the body. But it is for me to carry out his designs & do his will for when I do the will of Pres. 
Young I do the will of God & no man can get salvation unless he helps his Council. It is his will 
that the City should be walled & fortified & that is my will. When I do just as he tells me I do the 
will of my Father in Heaven for he is the only man that holds the keys of salvation. When I feel 
reluctant to do his will I feel bad & so do you all. When I do his will I can sleep in peace & my 
heart is consoled all the day long. This is also the case with you when you do not do as your 
Bishop tells you. Last year your improvements were all scattered about but now you are got into 
a smashed suckertash pie. Now go to & save yourselves against all selfishness. 

I am going to put my property & all my wives into the Church & then nothing can be taken out of 
the Church. I am going to dedicate all I have to God. When a man turns away from the 
Priesthood he forfeits every thing even his life for that is no longer his. My body is only lent to 
me by the Lord and I forfeit every thing when I go astray. If righteousness was laid to the line it 
would take many heads from their shoulders & the day will be when that will be done. 

Now do as your bishop tells you & not go to salt Lake to President Young to alter this or that. I 
pray that this people may do right for when you dishonor the priesthood you dishonor God. I 
have been told that some have said that I will honor the priesthood but I will not honor him that 
holds the priesthood. But I say that you cannot honor one without honoring the other. Bishop 
Walker is presiding here. Follow his council & all will be right and the blessing of God will rest 


Page 172 




upon you. Even so Amen. 

Benediction by W Woodruff. 

We rode to Provo & spent the night. 

Sunday May 7th The people assembled in the meeting house in two rooms. W. Woodruff 
Addressed the People in the morning in one room & was followed by President Young & 
reported by W Woodruff, And H C Kimball spoke to the people in the other room & reported by 
T Bullock And also Bishop Richards spoke. 

In the afternoon Joseph Young spoke & was followed by H C Kimball. W. Woodruff reported & 
President Young spoke in the other room & T Bullock reported. We spent the night at Provo. I 
spent the time with A Williams. 

Monday 8th We rode to springvill & had a meeting with the people. President Young Preached to 
the people & W Woodruff & T Bullock reported. We also had a meeting in the evening. Joseph 
Young P P. Pratt & W. Woodruff spoke to the people. 

Tuesday 9th We rode a few miles & nooned. President Young went with some others to appoint 
a Location for a fort. We then rode to Pason o[r/n?] petetnet. I was attacked with the teeth ake & 
Ague in the face so bad I could not attend meeting. President Young preached T. Bullock 
reported. I spent the night at Brother Sirts. President Young got some oxen in the settlements to 
take to Walker. He councelled the people in all the settlements to feed the Indians & treat them 
Kindly. Elder Taylor spoke some to the people. 

Wednesday 10 We rode 15 miles & nooned. We here organized. See T Bullocks Report. D. H. 
Wells was commander in chief R Burton Capt of guard. W. Woodruff Historian T Bullock clerk 
of camp, P. P. Pratt & J Taylor Chaplains E Hunter Chief Bishop, Dr Sprague surgeon & 
Physician &c. We rode to Nephi city & spent the night. [25?] We held a meeting. President 
Young Addressed the people And I reported it. 

A 

Thursday 1 1th We rode to Chicken Creek & stoped & spent the night near Walker & his band. 
We had an interview with Walker. President Young & Counsel tried to have a talk with him. At 
first Walker appeared dogish & was not disposed to talk when we first formed our Carrell within 
40 rods of his camp, He gatherd all his warriors & made quite a display but we did not go out to 
meet them at the time. They turned their horses out & went into their tents. And when we Called 
upon Walker He lay down in the dirt & did not feel disposed to talk but President Young 
manifested great patience with him even after the patience of most men was exhausted. He went 
to him & lifted him out of the dirt & finally got him to talk some. The following is a synopsis of 
the conversation: 

Walker said he had no spirit. He had no heart. Did not feel as though He Could talk And when I 


Page 173 




herd that President Young was coming I felt that I had no heart. I do not want to talk. I want to 
hear President Young talk & he sit still & here others talk. 

President Young gave him some tobaco. He said when he had plenty of tobaco then all his 
friends would come in & smoke with him but when He was out of tobaco Gov Young said I have 
brought some beef cattle for you. I want one killed so you kan have a feast while we are here. He 
wanted to have the mormons sing before the parties take a smoke. He said E T Benson come & 
his heart was good but D Huntington came & his heart was running. We then sung. 

He then spoke & said I have not got the spirit of the Lord and if their is any one here that kan 
give me the spirit of the Lord I wish they would do it. He said white people in heaven was happy. 

Tulpidge next spoke amid much crying & tears. He is the one that had his wife killed. He said 
that I. (D Huntington) had been good to him & he had not seen me since his child died. He said 
they now had got good hearts & the mormons hearts wer now good that wer here. We have now 
good peace & can all lie down in peace without fear And I want to live in friendship with this 
people. We left the Indian camp & returned to our waggons. 

President Young had another talk with Walker & T Bullock reported. I was not present. 

Lriday 12 We again visited Walker at his tent this morning. He was still in the same unpleasant 
mood. Did not wish to talk & left his tent & went into the willows and others talked. They had a 
sick child & they wished the Elders to lay hands upon it. Then President Kimball Benson & 

Wells Administered to it. Also Dr Sprague left some medicine for it & for several others that was 
sick. The Indian said if the Child died He would have to kill an Indian Child or a mormon child 
to go with it (as this is their tradition. The interpeter told him he must not do it. That it was 
wrong. That when Mormon children died we did not kill any child to go with them & they must 
not do it for it was not right. The Indian said his heart was not so he wanted to kill some one to 
go with him. He said He wanted his child to get well & then He would go with us but do not 
wants to go till his Child gets well. 

He said Walker was a great Chief & President Young was a great Chief & what he said was true 
that he could not say any thing wrong. Petetnet spoke & said that that would be good & not steal 
nor kill any body that one Could now go alone & not be killed. Their would be no blood in their 
path. 

Walker wished President Young to write a Letter so he could show it to the people & let them 
know that we were at peace so their would be no difficulty with the people. President Young 
wrote one. 

Dr Sprague gave medicine to the sick child & gave Walker directions how to deal with the child 
& 10 others which Dr Sprague had left medicine for 2 of which was vary sick. They all got well. 

(Sister Lorenzo Young also was quite sick with the Lung complaint. Dr Sprague gave medicine 
to her. She got well & several others in the camp was under his care.) 


Page 174 




On parting with Walker at his tent He said we now understand each other that they were now to 
have all peace so all could now go on the road in peace and not be afraid. Could now put in 
wheat & corn & one alone without for somebody to kill them. He now wanted to have the road 
clear without any blood in it. He wished for peace all the time. Both shook together. Then all the 
company shook hands & the pipe of peace was smoked. Walker received his presents & killed a 
beef for the Indians to have a feast. They also treaded swaped blankets for Horses & bought 2 
children that were prisoners. 

After making peace & got through trading we left Walkers camp & rode to the severe & Walker 
Grosephene & squash head with many others went with us. We spent the night at the severe. We 
made a Raft & crossed all our waggons over in 1 hour & 30 minutes. I spent all my leasure 
moments with T Bullock In writing a history of the Journey. 

Saturday 13th We left the severe & rode to Chicken Creek. Bated then rode to Filmore city. 35 
miles. We had hail & rain storms almost all day. Arived at Filmore at 5 oclok. 

Sunday 14 We held a meeting with the people of Filmore. P P Pratt Adrressed the people & was 
followed by President Young. W Woodruff reported. Were drawn off by T Bulloc & now in the 
Historians office. In the afternoon the People were Addressed by John Taylor & followed by H. 
C. Kimball but not reported. 

There was a meeting at Early Candlelight. W Woodruff preached. Was followed by E. T Benson. 
Was not reported. 

Monday 15th Note(6) Travled to Coal Creek 33 miles & camped for the night. We nooned on 
Corn Creek. During the evening we walked onto the hill among the cedars B Young D 
Huntington W[alker?] & myself. We looked through a spy glass & looked to the west mountain 
onto a high peak far in the distance. It was a beautiful place to camp a fine view plenty of cedar 
for wood & grass for animals. I walked onto the highth of the Cedar [knowls?] & took a view of 
the surrounding country with T Bullock & Phineas Young. We also had prayers together. 

(Phineas Young said that He was the first that was Chosen in the organization of the quorum of 
the Twelve Apostles but Brother Joseph said He wished I would let Wm. Smith have that place 
so I gave way to him. /The above shows Phineas Youngs feelings. There is not a word of truth in 
this Statement./ 

Thursday 16 May We rode to mountain Creek. It was dry. We nooned. We met with Brother 
Enoch Reese from Calafomia. He gave us all the news up to the date He left. He said the 
homestead Bill had passed & thought there would be two pacific rail roads built pass [sic]. Rode 
to bever Creek & camped for the night. I caught a fine trout & gave it to President Young. He 
said He would not bake it unless I would Come & take breakfast with him which I agreed to do. 
We travled 27 3/4 miles. 

Wednesday May 17th We had a Cold night. Ice stood in the pails. We rode 8 1/4 miles up Hill 


Page 175 




then down over a vary stony road. We road to red Creek & nooned. We then rode to paroan & 
spent the night. 

The Presidency & Company divided themselves among the people. Distance of the day 37 miles. 
During the evening the Presidency, Twelve & Authorities of the place Held a counsel while Elder 
Taylor preached to the people below in the tabernacle while we were in the upper room. The 
minutes of the counsel are reported By Woodruff & Bullock in the Historians office. 

Thursday 18th I spent the morning writing with T Bullock. We rode to cedar City. 20 miles. I 
rode Horsback in company with John Steel & F T Whitney. On my arival I went to the Iron 
works & examined all the premises & saw several pigs of Iron. Elder Erastus Snow was with me 
& explained to me the difficulties they had to encounter there in making Iron which I found to be 
many. We held a meeting in the evening. President Young preached & I reported it & It is in the 
Historians office. 

Friday 19th I rode in company with John Steel & FT. Whitney on hors back to Cazuree creek 
called summit Creek 6 miles from Cedar City. Last summer their was 2 Houses which were 
removed during the Indian war but the fort was standing. We then rode to Cannarrah Creek 6 
miles from Cazuree & 12 from cedar city. This \ is the summit or rim of the basin. We then rode 
to dry or Battle Creek. 7 miles. Here we have splendid mountain scenery of red rocks standing 
like pyramids 1,000 feet high. Oposite of this cite is fort Hannony to be located 6 miles from the 
base of the mountain on the east the fort on the west. We then road to the present location of fort 
Harmony 3 miles making 18 1/2 miles by the rodeometer & 287 miles from Salt Lake City. 287. 

This is a good grazing Country & a splendid mountain scenery. The brethren are trying to take 
out the stream of waters called Ash Creek to water their fanning land. They have carried it 6 
miles & have to carry it 2 miles further to get it onto their new field which is made by the 
missionaries who were sent out last winter from salt Lake. Rufus Allen is their Captain John D 
Lee has [now?] charge of their old fort. Fort Hannony is 15 miles from the Rio vergin. 

I went fishing but caught nothing though it was said that there were some small trout in it. I then 
went onto the top of the Canyon through which runs Ash creek 1/2 mile south of the fort in 
company with T Bullock & Samuel Atwood & in about 2 Hours we rolled into the canyon 1,000 
feet below about 50 tons of rock. We rolled off one would weigh about 5 tons. It fell about 200 
feet perpendicular struck a shelf of rock & took the shelf with it. It landed in the Creek & sent a 
sh[ock?] of water about 50 feet into the Air. We made a good deal of thunder for a while. 

After being weary of this we returned to the fort & found the people assembled in meeting. 
President Young Had spoken & P P. Pratt neither of which I herd. President Kimball was 
speaking when I came in. He spoke well. \ He said that if the Brethren would be faithful & 
united they would have great blessings that they would bring great good to Israel that there would 
soon be thousands of the Lamanites that could be gatherd together & saved & they would have 
revelation & they would do a great work in this kingdom. 


Page 176 




Then Lorenzo Snow Young spoke & had the spirit of God upon him & profisied upon many 
things but ther was no reporting of any part of the meeting ownly T D Brown took a minute of 
President Young speech which He gave me which is with our reports in the Historians office. 
Thomas Bullock & myself reported all the Presidents sennons when we were present as we were 
appointed the Historian & clerk of the camp. 

At the dismissall of the meeting I went to my waggon & spent the night with Sprague & Angel. 

Saturday 20th May We rode back on the bench on our return home 3 miles & the company 
stoped & President Young located a new fort ground to be called fort Hannony. T Bullock took 
an account of it in his Journal. It is a good location a great quantity of Grass & good soil. 

We than rode to the creek & nooned. We then rode to Cedar City & spent the night. 18 1/2 miles 
about 20 miles south of fort Harmony we desended a great distance into another climate on the 
Rio Virgin. There is a kind of fruit there that covers thousand of Acres that is vary choice. Its 
flavor is betwen a strawbury & cranbury. Wm. C Stains has some of it growing in his gardin. 

Sunday May 21 I attended meeting & E T Benson & P Pratt Preached. See W Woodruff report. 
We then parted with the people & rode to Parowan & held a meeting with the saints there in the 
counsel House. President Young preached to the people. I reported it. See report. I spent the night 
with T Bullock at Brother S[teels?]. 20 miles. 

May 22 Monday We left Parowan at 9 oclok & rode to Bever. Some of our animals gave out. Dr 
Sprague was quite sick in the morning & evening. 30 mils. 

Tuesday 23 Left Bever at 9 oclok & rode to a dry creek & nooned. Dr Sprague was still quite 
unwell. We then rode to cove creek & spent the night. 30 mils. 

Wednesday 24 We rode to Corn Creek & nooned. 20 mils. We then rode to Filmore 12 mils & 
spent the night. Distance of the day 35. 

We held a meeting in the evening. Brothers Joseph Young & J Taylor preached followed By E T 
Benson. Not reported. I spent the night at sister Nixons with G A Smith & T Bullock. Sister 
Nixon was sealed to Richard Johnson by G A Smith. 

Thursday 25 We rode to a creek & bated. We then rode to another creek & bated. We here had a 
hard rain & Hail stonn but we rode to the severe & spent the night. 33 miles. 

Friday 26th We begun early & crossed all our waggons over the severe before breakfast. We was 
1 Hour & 30 minutes. We rode to salt Creek & spent the night. We arived at 2 oclock. We had a 
meeting at 4 oclock. John Taylor preached. Was followed by E. T. Benson. I reported & took 
supper. 

I attended another meeting in the evening at the trial of Bishop Haywood which lasted till 
midnight. T Bullock & W Woodruff reported. See report in Historians office. I felt wearid out. I 


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spent the night at Brother Biglers. 

Saturday morning 27th We left the fort at salt creek & rode west across the mountains & made a 
new rode. We travled about 20 miles & nooned at the foot of the mountain by a creek. The 
mountain was quite steep & stony that we came over. We nooned in site of the Utah lake vally . 
We had 25 men from Nephi to help us make a road. We left our noon ground at 4 oclok & drove 
to the bottom of the mountain beside of the Utah Lake on the west side & camped for the night. 

Sunday May 28th We travled across the sage bottoms with but vary little grass 24 1/4 miles 
opposite the cotton wood on the west side of Utah Lake. Quite a good road but a barren dessert. 
The water was quite filthy so we could not drink it well. We travled 10 miles further & spent the 
night. Distance of the day 34 mils. 

Monday 29th We rise this morning in the midst of a great snow storm. The Lake is vary rough. 
We took breakfast then road through a driving Snow Stonn to Lehi or Dry Creek 4 miles & spent 
the day. We were quite chilled when we arived here I spent the day & night at Daniel Thomases. 
He killed a fat pig for our dinner. We had a \ meeting at 4 oclock. W Woodruff preached. Was 
followed by H C Kimball. T Bullock & W Woodruff reported. The people had a dance in the 
evening. I did not attend. 9 miles. 

Tuesday May 30 We left Lehi & drove to Unionvill & made a short halt. Bishop Richards had 
got a good dinner for us. The company did not wish to stop so near home so president Young 
told him to eat what they wanted & give the rest to the poor. We rode on to salt Lake City. I spent 
the night with my family having travled in 26 days 594 miles being 287 miles to Harmony & the 
same back again. 

Wednesday 3 1st I received 4 letters from Ilus Thompson f [] & Ozem Woodruff. I wrote 2 letters 
to Ilus & Bemhisel. 


June 

June 1st I rode with my wife & children into the big field to see my grain. I cut some grass. 

2 & 3 I spent the time plouging & Hoeing my corn. I was quite unwell. 

4th Sunday J Taylor preached in the forenoon & H C Kimball in the Afternoon. Was followed by 
President Young. D Watt reported. I attended the prayer meeting. 

5 & 6 I spent my time Hoeing corn. I was quite unwell. 

7th I rode to John Benbows with Mrs Woodruff Father two children & Swi[tz?]er. 10 miles. 

8th In company with Father Woodruff I went to fishing. We Caught about 40. Some would weigh 
about 2 lb. I rode home in the evening to salt Lake City. 10 miles. 

9th I spent the day hoeing & ploughing my Garden. 


Pagel78 




10th I rode to Fort Herriman with Mrs Woodruff Emma & Bulah & soon after I arived G. A. 
Smith & E. T. Benson came. We none of us had ever visited the place before. I thought this the 
best location in this Territory for a Herd Ground. G. A. Smith & E. T. Benson preached in the 
evening. Distance of the day 25 miles. 20 [sz'c?] mils. I took out a mare & colt & a calf & left 
with Wm. Smoot. 

June 111 preached in the forenoon on Sunday upon the same subject that G. A. Smith & E T 
Benson did ie the walling in of their City & schooling their children both of which was vary 
necessary. At the close of the meeting I returned to the salt lake city & spent the night at home. 

25 m. 

12th \ I attended a vary interesting party got up by the president at the social Hall for his 
Company that went south with him. It continued till midnight when we all returned to our homes. 

131 went to mill & spent the remainder of the day in my garden. President Young preached an 
interesting discourse upon the subject of family government. D Watt reported. 

14 * We had a hard rain storm through this day and I 1 a great deal of Heavy hail fell. One child 
was drowned & another nearly killed. A cloud broak & the water came down in torents. It 
washed away a part of the city wall & much damage was done to houses & gardens on little 
Cotton wood. The Hail cut evrything to the ground. Gardens com & wheat was destroyed. Also 
at North Cotton wood it was the same. Nearly all glass was broaken out of the windows. 

15 It rained in the morning. It cleared at 10 oclock. I took Mrs Woodruff & most of the family 
into my waggon & rode to South weber fort & spent the night at Brother Kingtons. 35 mils. 

161 spent the day at the fort. Elder Kington was quite unwell. I had a good meeting with the 
people in the evening. I spoke upon the subject of walling in the city & schooling their children 
for they were doing neither. Mrs Woodruff spoke to the sisters about forming a female society to 
make clothing to cloth the indians women & children. 

17 I left webber & returned to salt Lake City. Mrs Woodruff was quite sick. I nooned on our 
returned home at Ezra Clarks. We nooned going up at Brother Ste[ad?]s. I saw his carriage top & 
sides was cut to pieces with the Hail. Hail fell as large as small Hens eggs. We rode through one 
Hail drift 2 feet deep washed by the water down the creek. 

^ I spent the night at Mark Halls. I had a dream while [there]. <1 thought that I was in company 
with> Joseph <President Young and others and I thought that many were dying and I thought that 
I was going to die and I delivered a strong testimony to those who were present and I awoke.> 

1 8th Sunday O Spencer & O Hyde preached in the fore noon & in the Afternoon Elder Bullock 
who had been on a mission to the shoshonees gave a rehersal of his travels among them which 
was vary interesting. 


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19th * President Young & company start this morning to explore & make a rode through Toille 
& around the west mountain. I spent the day mending a carriage I broke coming from webber. I 
went into the big field & saw my crops & I must say that I never saw a better prospect for good 
crops since I have been in the valley. 

* 20, 21, 22, 23 & 24 of June I have spent this week in the Historians office with GA. Smith & T 
Bullock In drawing off all the sennons & teachings of the Presidency & Twelve & of our Journey 
so they can be filled in the Historians office for the Church History. President Young arived 
home on Friday the 23d. 

25 Sunday I spent the day at home writing the sermon[s?] of the presidency. 

26 I spent the day ploughing & hoeing potatoes in the big field. 

June 27th 1854 /Met this morning upon the/ Anniversary of the death of the prophets T Joseph & 
Hiram Smith who was martered in Carthage Jail. Conference opened at 10 oclok by singing & 
prayer By E. T. Benson. There were present the Presidency & Twelve & a large Congregation of 
Saints. President Young preached one of his most interesting discourses. G. D Watt & W 
Woodruff & T Bullock reported. This occupied the forenoon. In the afternoon Elder John Taylor 
gave a vary minute description of the Death of Joseph & Hiram & all the circumstances leading 
to it. This was reported. /Adjourned Conference./ 

28 [] } The Mail came in & was opened this morning. I got 3 letters from Ilus, Bernhisel & 
Azmon. I wrote 3 letters to I F Carter. Sent him a draft of $ 105 by E M Stowell. I wrote Sanbon 
& Carter a letter & sent in it a Draft of $256 from Livingston & Kinkade. I wrote Dr Bernhisel a 
letter. We did not have much news by the mail. The war Continues in Europe & a prospect of its 
being long & Blody. The conference continued to day. President Heber C. Kimball Delivered a 
long address. 

The following persons received missions abroad: John Taylor New York N H. Felt do A Robins 
do R Clinton do M H Peck do Abel Lamb do John Young to U.S Leman Brown Michigan Joseph 
Craigg to Ireland, Preston Thomas to texas Elder Traipp do Elder Whites ohio. 

President Young nominated John Smith the oldest son of Hiram Smith for a patriarch over the 
whole church. It was a clear vote. J M Grant followed with remarks. 

PM. J M Grant Addressed the meeting. Was followed by Lorenzo Snow. All spoke in the spirit & 
power of God. Then a little time was occupied in ancedotes from W. W. Phelps John Taylor O 
Hyde & the conference closed by remarks from President Young. We had a vary interesting 
conference. 

29 30 & 3 1 I spent this time in ploughing & hoeing my corn. 

July 


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July 1st Saturday I spent this day ploughing & Hoeing com. 

2d Sunday I spent the fore part of this day writing. 

3d I spent this day Hoeing corn. 

Independance 4th July I spent this day in the Celebration of the 4th of July. See deserett News 
containing the Account of the celebration in Salt Lake City. 

5 to 8 I spent the time Haying. 

Sunday July 9th Brother Gifford preached upon the subject of sanctification & was followed by 
President B Young who in a measure reproved him. In the Afternoon I attended meeting & 
opened by prayer. President Young preached upon sanctification. See report. I attended prayer 
meeting in the evening. 

10 to 15 I spent Haying. It was exceding Hot weather. 

Sunday 16th President Kimball spoke to the people & was followed by President Young upon the 
subject of family Government. I did not attend & did not report. PM. O Hyde spoke to the 
people. I reported. 

17 to 21 I spent this week getting Hay. 

22d I commenced Harvesting to day we Cut & put up 3 Acres of wheat. We are blessed with 
Heavy wheat Crops this year. The grass hoppers are now in clouds about us & are doing great 
damage to corn & potatoes & Gardens. 

23d Sunday I was quite weary & did not attend meeting through the [day], 

24th July This day spent by all the people in celebration of the Arival of the pioneers into this 
valley. It was considerd the greatest display ever got up by this people. The procedings are 
published in the Deserett News of July 27. 

25 I cut & put up 4 Acres of Heavy wheat. I had 2 [crad?]leers. 

26 We cut 2 Acres of wheat. 

27th We Cut 4 Acres of wheat & raked & bound it. I suffered much with the Heat to day & at 
about 5 oclock we were overtaken by a Heavy wind & rain which wet us & caused us to become 
vary chilly. I was quite sick through the night. 

28th I was confined to my house by sickness. 

29 I was quite unwell yet I rode some 10 miles & found my 2 milk cows which had been lost 4 
days. We had a Heavy shower of rain to day. 


Pagel81 




30th Sunday I am quite unwell & keep my house to day. } I wrote a letter to I. F. Carter. Lorenzo 
Young spoke to the people & was followed By President B Young. 

3 1st I was quite unwell but went to the Harvest field. [] The mail came in this evening & brought 
me 3 letters 2 from I F Carter & one from J M Bemhisel. 

August 

Aug 1st 4 1 wrote one letter to J M Bemhisel. Was quite unwell with a touch of the Irricipales. I 
spent a part of the day in the post office reading papers. The European war Continues briskly. I 
wrote one Letter to I F Carter. 

2d to 5th I was confined to my house with sickness. I had swellings like carbuncles came out on 
me. 

6 th Sunday I was not able to attend meeting today. 

7, 8 , & 9 * I was still confined to my house or not able to work. 

10th I drew wheat to day. We had a hard rain in the afternoon so that it wet the wheat. 

1 1th I rode in company with Father Woodruff to John Benbows. We Caught about 40 trout in the 
evening in Little cottonwood with hooks. 10 m. 

12 We returned home to Salt Lake City. 10 m. 

13th Sunday I attended meeting but was not vary well. 

14th to 19th I spent this week drawing & stacking my wheat. I had on 1 1 1/2 Acres 406 doz 
bundles of Heavy wheat. 

20th Sunday I Attended meeting. I spoke to the people in the afternoon. Samuel Richards Just 
arived from England spoke in the forenoon. 

21st to 24th I spent the time drawing wheat. 

25 & 26 I went over the Emigration mountain & drew a load of poles. I came down the mountain 
while it was vary dark with both wheels looked & Father drove & I led the Horses. It was so vary 
steap rough & Gullied that it was a dangerous operation. We camped for the night with Brother 
Killi[an?] at the foot of the mountain. 

27th \ Sunday I attended meeting & during our prayer meeting Elder Orson Pratt arived from his 
eastern mission in the city & came into the room with us long enough for us to shake his hand. 
He walked some 30 miles today. Was vary weary. We were all truly glad to meet with him. 

28th I went into Harkers Canyon in the west mountain to day & got a load of green poles. Spent 
the night in an encampment at the head of the canyon. 25 m. 


Page 182 




29 Aug I left the Canyon & returned to the City. 25 m. 

30 I went into Harkers Canyon & got a load of pine for posts. Spent the night in the Canyon. 25. 
311 returned home to the City. 25. } [] I received 3 letters & wrote 2 to Ilus & Bemhisel. 

September 

Sept 1st I went into dry Creek canyon & got a load of post & spent the night at Brother 
Lovreigm. 25. 

2d I returned home to the city. 25. 

3d Sunday Orson Pratt spoke to the people upon his mission to the states. 

4th Sept I rented my dwelling House to day to Mr Perry for $1,300 for 6 months & a half till the 
1st May for the Government officer who had command of the troops. 

5 to 9 I spent this week moving out of my house & choring & preparing the House for company. 

10th Sunday G. A Smith preached & was followed by Elder O Hyde in the forenoon & O Pratt in 
the afternoon upon the law of consecration & followed by O Hyde. 

1 1th to 161 spent this week drawing wood out of city creek canyon. I hiered Robert Scholes & 
Then Thomas Wheeler for $1 per day & board. Wilford & Bulah were both taken sick. 

17th President Young preached this afternoon & spoke upon the Law of consecration & had an 
interesting conversation in our Prayer Circle. The subject of Elder Orson Pratt publishing the seer 

6 the doctrin it contained was brought up in conversation. President Young said He ought not to 
have published the marriage cerimony. It was sacred & one of the last cerimonies attended to in 
the Endowments & ought not to have been given to the world. 

Brother Pratt said that He thought it was no harm as the Plurality of wives & its doctrins was to 
be published to the world. He said He should not have done it if He had thought there had been 
the least harm in it. 

President Young said He was satisfied that He intended no wrong in it. He said that the doctrin 
taught in the Seer that God had arived at that State whareby He could not advans any further in 
knowledge power & Glory was a fals doctrin & not true that there never will be a time to all 
Eternity when all the Gods of Eternity will scease advancing in power knowledge experience & 
Glory for if this was the case Eternity wood seease to be & the glory of God would come to an 
End. But all of celestial beings will continue to advance in knowledge & power worlds without 
end. Joseph would always be a head of us. We should never ketch up with him in all Eternity nor 
He with his leaders. 

Brother Pratt Also thought that Adam was made of the dust of the Earth. Could not believe that 


Page 183 




Adam was our God or the Father of Jesus Christ. President Young said that He was that He came 
from another world & made this. Brought Eve with him partook of the fruits of the Earth begat 
Children & they were Earthly & had mortal bodies & if we were Faithful we should become 
Gods as He was. He told Brother Pratt to lay aside his Philosofioal reasoning & get Revelation 
from God to Govern him & Enlighten his mind more & it would be a great Blessing to him to lay 
aside his books & go into the canyons as some of the rest of us was doing & it would be better 
for him. He said his Phylosophy injured him in a measure. 

Many good things wer said by President Young. That we should grow up in Revelation so that 
principle would govern evry act of our lives. He had never found any difficulty in leading this 
people since Josephs death. 

18, 19, 20, 21 I spent this time drawing wood. 

22d & 23d I spent my time Cutting up Corn. The Snake Indians fought the Utahs & killed 6 & 
brought in the Indian scalps on poles through our streets & had a war dans. 

24 Sunday O Hyde Preached in the forenoon & J M Grant in the afternoon. Our child is vary 
sick. 

25 to 28 I spent the time in drawing corn & making fence. 

29th The Mail came in to day & brought me 4 [] Letters 2 from Bemhisel one from I. F Carter 
one from Milo Andrews. I setled my matters with Mr Hornon through Middleton & Riley who 
gave his Note payable in 60 days. I rode 4 railed with Mr Homon & bought one yoke of oxen & 
paid $100 dollars for them. 

30th } I wrote 4 letters one to I. F. Carter & one to J M Bemhisel one to Milo Andrews one to 
Sarah at South webber. 


October 

Oct 1st Sunday I attended meeting through the day & prayer Meeting in the Evening. 

2d to 5th I spent the time in the canyons geting poles for fencing. 

Oct 6th General Conference commenced this morning at the Tabernacl at 10 oclok. The 
Presidency were present. Of the Twelve Apostles O. Hyde O. Pratt W. Woodruff G. A. Smith E. 
T. Benson L. Snow. As all the business of the Conference is published in the Deserett News of 
Oct 12 No. 311 deem it unne[ce]ssary to record it here. Conference closed Sunday evening Oct 
8th. 

President Young preached to a congregation of several thousand out of Doors And I Believe that 
He preached the greatest sermon that ever was Deliverd to the Latter Day Saints since they have 
been a People. Elder Watt Reported. I also took minutes. 


Page 184 




10th President Young & Company started on a Journey to visit the saints South. 

9 to 141 spent the time diging potatoes Drawing corn & choreing to my tears. Went to the 
canyon. 

15 Sunday I was not well. Did not attend meeting. Spent part of the day writing. 

16th to 21st I spent this week drawing pouls & posts timber from the canyon. 

Sunday 22d I attended meeting at the Tabernacle. 

23d to 28 I spent this week thrashing& cle[.]ing wheat. I raised 369 bushels of wheat & 400 
bushels of potatoes & 200 bushels corn. 

29th I attended meeting in the Tabernacle. 

30 & 3 1 I spent my time labouring. 


November 

Nov 1st to 3 I spent my time drawing poles & ploughing for wheat. 

4th I rode to south webber Fort & spent the night with Elder Kington. Both of my Horses were 
vary sick till midnight. 35 mils. 

5th Sunday I attended meeting at south webber fort. Broth Loman Shirtlift preached. Was 
followed By Elder Loren Farr & I followed them. We had a good meeting. I also held a meeting 
in the evening & I preached to the people. 

6th I returned to salt Lake City. 35 mils. 

7th to 1 1 I spent the week ploughing & puting in wheat. 

12th Sunday President Young preached to the people upon the subject of pruning of the dead 
Branches. He spoke well. 

13 to 181 spent the time puting in wheat. I sowed 15 Acres of wheat seeded 5 Acres to 
Ti[mothy?]. 

19th Sunday H C Kimball preached in the forenoon & Loren Far in the Afternoon. 

20 to 25 I spent this week drawing wood. 

26th Sunday I attended meeting at the tabemacl. President Kimball Preached in the forenoon 
upon a variety of subjects & Aaron Far in the afternoon. 

\ 27th I left the city to day & started on a mission to visit the saints in the north. I rode to the 
session settlement & spent the night with Bishop Stoker. I did not preach to the people as the 


Page 185 




school house was occupied with a court to settle a difficulty with a Gentile. 10 ms. 

28 I rode to Farmington & spent the night with Ezra Clark. I preached to the people & had a good 
meeting. Bishop Brownet presides over the people in that place. The people are makeing great 
improvements there. They have a court House built & many good buildings going up. 6 mils. 

29th I rode to Bishop Kays settlement & preached to the people. They were doing well. I spent 
the night with Brother Booth. 7 mils. 

30th I rode to South webber & visited the school in the afternoon & preached in the evening. 
Bishop Kington presides. I spent the night at Brother Mark Halls. 10 mils. 

December 

Dec 1st I rode to North Webber & spent the night with Bishop Wadsworth. I preached to the 
people in the evening. 3 mils. 

2d I rode to Ogden the first time I ever visited the place. It is a large settlement & thi[..y?]. I 
spent the night at James Brown & preached to the people in the evening. The principle subjects I 
treated upon was the subject of tithing the poor fund & the esstablishment of schools, building 
their wall contrasting their present position with fonner days. 8 miles. 

3d Sunday I rode to Binghams Fort & preached in the morning dined with Bishop Bingham. I 
found this to be a flourishing place well calculated for a large city. Fanning land good & 
abundant. Their present population is 100 families. Much wheat raised but did not learn the 
amount. The bishop had ownly 30 bushels of tithing wheat & 15 tons of Hay. The remainder was 
in the Hands of the people. They had two schools ready to commence. Their fort wall was 110 
feet long 64 Rods wide. 3/4 of it was in the way of erection. A part of Soldiers band was here 
distributed among the people to support & learn to work. They did not like it & seemed vary 
mad. Some were leaving their wickeups & going to webber River. Bingham fort is 3 miles from 
Ogden. 

I left this fort & rode to Ogden Hole & preached in the evening to a Full House. Thomas Dunn is 
Bishop. Ogden Hole is one of the most flourishing settlements North of Salt Lake City. Their soil 
vary rich & water abundant. They have 47 families a school of 50 scholars. Their wall is laid out 
140 Rods long 74 Rods wide to be built of stone 4 feet thick 10 feet high laid in morter. Much of 
the 16 stone is on the ground but not yet laid up. They raised 16,000 bushels of wheat. The 
bishop Had in hand 600 bushels of tithing wheat & 2 tons of Hay. Their wall was was 
commenced. They had 13 Head tithing cattle in hand about to start for the city with them. 12 mil. 
Had a snow storm in the evening. 

4th Rode to willow creek 8 mils & preached in the evening. Charles Hubbard Bishop willow 
creek has 35 families. Raised 12,000 bushels of wheat. Their wall was laid out Half a mile long 
70 rodswide. Was 6 feet high. They were vary deficient in schools. Had not had but 3 months 
good schools for 3 years. The Bishop was vary anxious to obtain a good teacher. I spent the night 


Page 186 




with Bishop Hubbard. Bishop Kington was with me on the Journey from Ogden City. 

5th I rode to Box Elder & preached in the evening at the School House. This place contains 60 
families Brother Davis Bishop. The majority of the people are welsh & Danish & mostly poor. 
But little wheat raised the past year. The Bishop had 20 tons of tithing Hay in hand & 15 bushels 
of wheat. They have no school this winter. Their fort wall is laid out 200 Rods long 100 Rods 
wide to be of stone 3 1/2 feet thick at the bottom 2 feet at the top 8 feet High. Is in progress of 
Erection. 8 mils. 

6th I returned to Ogden Hole & spent the night with Crandle Dunn. It was vary cold. 16 miles. 

7 I rode to south webber fort & spent the night with Brother Wolsey. I bought 27 Sheep of 
Thomas Kington at $5 per Head & paid him $135. 15 mils. 

8th I rode to Farmington & spent the night with Ezra Clark. 15 mils. 

Dec 9th I left Farmington & rode Home to the salt Lake City & spent the night with my family. 
16 mils. 

10 Sunday I attended meeting in the Tabernacle. Charles C. Rich Preached to the people in the 
forenoon upon the rise & progress of the settlement of San Barnadino. W Woodruff preached in 
the afternoon upon the subject of tithing, the poor fund & the education of our children. Was 
followed [by] E T Benson. 

Dec 1 1 The Legislatur of the Territory of Utah met this morning. The following are the members 
of the council: 

H C Kimball Orson Pratt 
D. H. Wells Wilford Woodruff 

Great Salt Lake County Albert Carrington 

Utah County Leonard E Harrington Aaron Johnson 

Sanpete County Isaac Morley 

Millard County John A Ray 

Iron County George A. Smith 

weber County Loren Farr Erastus Bingham 

Davis County Thomas S. Smith 

The Council was organized by Appointing 
Heber C. Kimball President 
Wm. Clayton Secretary 
Robert Campbell Assistant secretary 
Aaron F. Farr sergent of Arms 
Edward P. Duzette Door keeper 
Joseph W Young Messenger 
Wm. Jones Foreman 


Page 187 




Samuel Alger Chaplain 

The President Appointed the following standing Committee: 

On Printing O Pratt Albert Carrington 

On Elections GA. Smith D. H. Wells 

On Claims Aaron Johnson Thomas S Smith 

On Judiciary GA. Smith D. B. Wells A Carrington 

On Public Works Aaron Johnson John A Ray 

On Incorporation L E Harrington L Farr 

On Appropriations & expenditure O Pratt, [E?]. Bingham 

On Militia D H Wells Thomas S Smith 

On Rods Bridges & Ferries W. Woodruff I Morley L Farr 

On schools & Education O. Pratt, W. Woodruff 

On Library W Woodruff Geo A. Smith 

On Engrosig Orson Pratt John A Ray 

On Petitions T S Smith L E Harrington E Bingham 

On Agracultur Trade & Manufactur G. A. Smith A Carrington D H Wells Aaron 
Johnson 

On Revenue Wilford Woodruff Isacc Morley Loren Farr 
On Counties Thomas S Smith John E Ray L E Harrington 

After organizing we waited upon the Governor By a committee who met with the two houses in 
Joint session & delivered his message. 

12 Spent the day in the Legislature & kept minutes of the same. 

13, 14, 15 I spent the time in the Legislature. On Thursday evening I deliverd an address to the 
inhabitants of the 13th ward upon the subject of Education. 

16th I spent this day in the big field & at home writing a report of my travels to the north. I met 
with the regency in the evening. 

17th Sunday I attended meeting at the tabernacle. J M Grant preached upon the first principles of 
the Gospel & bore testimony to the Healing of the sick at Montrose by Joseph Smith. H. C. 
Kimball J[oined?] in the same testimony. In the Afternoon O Hyde spoke upon the subject of 
How we ought to live in our families. I met with the presidency & Twelve in an upper room in 
President Young office. The room was dedicated for prayer & the sick prayed for & oil 
consecrated. I preached in the evening to a full house upon the subject of Egucation in the 17th 
ward. 

18th I spent the day in the Legislature. 

19th I spent this day in the Legislature And at night {^} I delivered a lecture to some 60 young 
men who had assembled at the 16 ward for the purpose of forming Philosophical society. I spoke 


Page 188 




upon the subject of Education. The meeting was in the school house. I felt the importance of this 
subject. They appointed a committee of 5 to draw up a constitution & appoint or look up a 
president. 

20 to 23 I spent the time in the Legislature. 

24 Sunday J. M. Grant Preached upon the first principles of the gospel. Was followed by H. C. 
Kimball. In the afternoon President Kimball addressed the people. 

25th \ Christmas I met with the inhabitants of the 14 ward & deliverd an address to the people & 
was followed by remarks from Isacc Morley Bishop Ho[agen?] & others. Meeting continued till 
1 oclock when we were dismissed for 2 hours when the people came together again & spent the 
afternoon & evening in the dance & all seemed to enjoy themselves well. 

There was a great excitement * through our city during the fore part of the day. Some of the 
souldiers that were quartered in the heart of our city became intoxicated & began to fight among 
themselves & soon some of the citizens became mixed with them. The soldiers fired upon the 
people & the people flung stones in return. Some were wounded on both sides but none killed. 
The Military Officers drove the soldiers into the Barracks & the Mayor & Marshall of the city 
cleared the streets of the citizens which ended the fray. 

* 

26th I attended the Legislature during the day And in the evening I attended a splendid party got 
up by Judge Kenny & Col Steptoe. The Presidency & Twelve were invited & many others. It was 
held at the City Hotel kept by Wilkie. We had a good supper & a plesant dance. 

27 28 & 29 I spent the time in the Legislature. During the evening of the 29th I attended the 
assembly at the House of Elder Lorenzo Snow & spent the evening in a vary agreeable manner. 
The time was spent in the performance of music speeches poems songs. The whole room was 
beautifully decorated with flags & emblems of the different Arts & sciences & the whole scene 
was variety. 

30 I spent the day at home writing. I wrote 2 letter } to J. M. Bernhisel & I. F. Carter. I sent in my 
Letter to I F Carter a draft of $ 1 ,302 drawn by J L Haywood United States Marshall upon the 
United States Treasury. I Also sent I F Carter the Deseret News. 

3 1st Sunday Richard Cook addressed the people upon the first principles of the gospel followed 
by President Kimball who gave good advise to the people. Elder Lorenzo Snow spoke in the 
Afternoon. We attended to the prayer circle at President Youngs in the evening. President Young 
was quite out of health. I preached to a full house in the 17th ward during the evening. 

I looked over my Journal & found the following a synopsis of my doings the past year: 

{========================= 


Page 189 




Synopsis of My labours In 1854 


I travled eighteen hundred eighty 


nine 

1,889 Miles 

I Attended 

47 Meetings 

I Preached 

44 Discourses 

I Attended two general Conferences 


(spent 9 days) 

2 Conferences 

I Attended the Childrens meetings 

10 Times 

I spent 28 days with the Legislature 

28 days 

I spent 5 days in the Endowment room 

5 days 

I Confirmed 10 Persons 

10 Confirmed 

I Ordained two Seventies 

2 Seventies 

I Ordained two Elders 

2 Elders 

I Ordained two Priest 

2 Priest 

I Ordained two Teachers 

2 Teachers 

I Ordained two Deacons 

2 Deacons 

I Blessed 101 Missionaries 

101 Missionaries 

I Administered to 5 sick persons 

5 sick 

I Attended one Council of the Twelve 

1 Of the 12 

I wrote 33 Letters 

33 Letters 

I Received 28 Letters 

28 Letters 

I Reported 1 1 Sermons 

1 1 Sermons 


=========================} 

{========================= 

Wilford Woodruffs Journal for 1855 


* 


} 


January 

Jan 1st 1855 * The Governor & Legislative Assembly of the Territory of Utah made the most 
splendid party ever got up in these mountains as far [as] a feast & decorations were concerned. 
The U.S. Judges & Military officers were invited. Danceing commenced at 3 oclock dinner at 9 
& supper at 12 oclok. An account of the proceding was published in the Deserett News. 

2d I spent this day at home. The eastern mail was sent out but none came in. 


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3d The Legislator Convened again this day. I met with them. 

4, 5, & 6 I spent this time in the Legislator. 7 Sunday I spent the time at meeting. 

8th to 13 I spent this week in the Legislator & kept a minute of the procedings. 

14th Sunday I spent the day at meeting. 

15 to 19th I spent the time in the Legislator. We Adjourned at 12 oclok P.M. on the 19th Jan 
1855. The secretary furnished the members with a good supper of pies cakes Oysters &c. 

20th I spent the time at home. 

21st Sunday I spent the time at meeting. 

22 to 27 I was quite unwell through this week with a severe head ake originated from overtaxing 
the eyes. 

28 I spent the fore part of the day at meeting & the after part at home. 

29th } I wrote a letter to I F Carter & sent him the first Bill of exchange for $1,302 by Adams & 
co express. 

30th The Southern Mail came in & brought many letters & papers. The papers contained an 
account of the European War the stonning of Sebastopol with a loss of 13,000 men 5,000 of the 
allied forces & 8,000 of the Russians. Also an account of the steamers Artie & Ocean with a 
great loss of life. 

3 1st I spent the day home. 


February 

Feb 1st I attend a grammar school 3 evenings in a week taught by Elder Orson Hyde. He has 
about 30 schollars. I visited Betsey Cosset & her husband this afternoon. 

Feb 2d I visited Brother Pulsipher & family in the afternoon & attended the grammar school in 
the evening. 

[3rd] ? \ I spent most of the day at home but at 6 oclok in the evening I Attended the Universal 
scientific Association. It received its organization this evening. The following persons were 
Appointed the board of the society: Wilford Woodruff President, John Taylor Orson Spencer 
Ezra T. Benson Albert Carrington Lorenzo Snow Samuel Richards Vice Presidents George A 
Smith Wm. W Phelps corrisponding Secretaries Reporters Robert Campbell Clerk G D Watt 
Assistant Clerk. 

The object of this society is to promote evry good science esstablish a mueseum & Library & lay 
a foundation for useful knowledge. 


Pagel91 




4th Sunday I 1 This was an important day to the saints. Some of the strongest preaching ever 
deliverd to the saints was herd this day. Orson Pratt preached in the morning upon the subject of 
Zion in the last days & the kingdom of God built upon the mountains of israel. He was filled with 
the spirit of God & made the subject plain & spoke vary pointed. 

In the Afternoon Brother D. H. Wells spoke concerning his Faith & first acquaintance with 
Joseph Smith Also of our public works. 

Then J. M. Grant Arose & then commenced the tug of war. Strong & large guns were fired with 
red Hot balls. The gentiles were told of their wickedness, corruptions, & abominations & 
strongly warned against attempting any further to traduce & corrupt the wives & daughters of the 
Latter Day saints and the Latter Day Saints was strongly warned against Associating with the 
gentiles in an unholy manner. 

When He closed President Kimball arose & followed him in the same spirit & testimony. He said 
that He would withdraw fellowship from any sister that would run after any of the gentiles & He 
would withdraw fellowship from any mother that would give her consent for their daughters to 
go & associate with the gentile or from the father if He gave his consent and if He caught any 
man commiting Adultery with one of his daughters He would kill them both & so ought any 
righteous man. But let not any person that has commit Adultery ever kill another person for 
commiting the same act. Many important things were said which were reported by the writers & 
will be published in due time. 

At the close of the meeting at the Tabernacle we met at the Presidents House for Prayer. Report 
came that the Indian Walker was dead. That He died in his tent with the consumption. This drew 
out some remarks from President Young upon the subject of the Indians. He said that He was 
thankftd that we had got along as well as we had with the Indians since we had been here He 
thought they had improved in their condition considering what advantages they had quite as 
much as the Saints had. 

After meeting I walked down & laid hands upon sister Anderson a Danish woman who was quite 
sick. 

5th There is quite an excitement through the City to day among the Gentiles in Consequence ol 
the preaching yesterday. I rode to little Cotton wood & bought 2 Lesten sheep of Bishop 
Richards. I paid $ 15 for them. On my return I stoped to look at the sugar works which had Just 
got in operation. They were making up beets vary fast. I attended the grammar school at night. 

2 1 5 ? | 

6th } } [] The Eastern mail came in last night at 10 oclok which brought me 3 letters 2 from Ilus F 
Carter & one from Thompson Woodruff. He also sent me 3 1 different kinds of Apple grafts the 
choisest fruit He had. I hope I shall be able to save sum of them. 

We also have received News of the appointment of a new Governor. It is said that Col Steptoe is 


Page 192 




our Governor. There is a good deal of excitement through the City on this account. It has also 
been reported that secretary Harris is again to be sent back to us as our secretary. 

Most of the paper mail was left at Laramie. The Indians did not disturb them on the way but 
many were gathering east of Laramie. The papers report a war in the Nebraskie Territory between 
the Missourians & settlers. 

7th I spent the day at home writing & grammar school at night. 

8th I rode to south webber & spent the night at Brother Kingtons. I took up two fine Lesten sheep 
& put into his flock. 35 mils. 

9th I spent the day in the fort. I attended the school taught by Sarah. She had taught 6 months. 
This day closed her second quarter. She closes her school to day & settles her business & is 
prepairing to return home. 

10th I returned to the city of the salt Lake And attended the meeting of the Universal Scientific 
Society. The Constitution was again Read & the committee reported that all the officers 
appointed had received their appointment. Speeches were made by several members & by the 
President & vice Presidents. 35 mils. 

Sunday 1 1th I spent the day at the Tabernacle & evening at Prayer Circle. <1 wrote a lengthy 
letter during the night to Emma upon the principle of obeying counsels 

12th I spent the day in study & the evening in the Grammar school. 

13th I attended a party at the social Hall got up by Zions workmen upon the public works. We 
had a good time. It lasted till after midnight. 

14th I spent most of the day in study & the evening in the Grammar school. 

15 th I spent the day studying & I met with the board of the universal scientific society at the 
Historians office. We spent several hours together in laying plans for the Edifications of the 
people when they assemble together. The board wished me to deliver an opening address on 
Saturday evening before the society. 

16th I attended the grammar school during the evening but part of the day at the Historians office 
examining my Journals Containing Joseph sennons preparitory for publication in the Church 
History. 

17th The universal scientific society met at 6 oclok at the council House. I deliverd my opening 
address. Was followed by G. A. Smith W W Phelps S. Richards G P Wallace. 

18th Feb 1855 * Notice had been given out a week ago that President Brigham Young would 
preach to the people to day upon our views concerning the government of the United States and 
all strangers were invited to attend. At an early hour the tabernacle was filled & a thousand 


Page 193 




people that could not get into the House. A large company from those out of Doors was called 
together & preached to by Elder Orson Pratt. A good many strangers were gathered together in 
the Temple. 

After singing & prayer by W. Woodruff President Young arose & said that as He did not expet to 
be able to speak to the people He had prepared a peace to be read before the assembly & when 
that is read I will say a few words. Thomas Bullock then read the address before the assembly. 

He sustained the constitution of the United States also its laws but He used a sharp two edged 
sword against wickedness & wicked men. He sharply rebuked sin in high places & when the 
address was finished He followed with a lengthy sharp Cutting Oral Speech which was more 
pointed than his written [-]. This speech was fully reported by the reporters. 

The meeting was addressed in the afternoon by Brother John Gibson followed by O Hyde & H. 

C. Kimball. 

At the close of the afternoon meeting I met in the prayer Circle & at the close of prayer I had the 
Happy privilege of seeing John ^ Smith the son of Hiram Smith the martered Patriarch set in the 
middle of the circle & Presidents Young, Kimball & Grant & O. Pratt W. Woodruff G. A. Smith 
& Lorenzo Snow of the Twelve Apostles laid Hands upon his head & ordained Him unto the 
office of the first Patriarch in the church & kingdom of God. This blessing was sealed upon him 
as it belonged to him by right through the linage of his Fathers. It was recorded in the Historians 
office taken from the report of Thomas Bullock. 

At the close of this meeting I returned home & took most of my family & went to the 14 ward 
school house. The house was filled to overflowing. I went into the s[tand?] with the Bishop. I felt 
as though I was full of fire. I was full of that Electriot fluid or spirit of God that had flown 
through President Young during the day. There was no reporter to record my words, but the 
following is a synopsis of my remarks as far as I can recollect: 

I arose & said I was thankful for the privilege of meeting with you & to speak of the things of the 
kingdom of God & to hear from my brethren. I have been full of thought & reflection this day 
while sitting & hearing from President Young, & I feel to thank God with all my heart that He 
has bestowed upon us such a leader in this dispensation. Yes President Young is a leader in Israel 
& one that is not ashamed to rebuke sin in high places. He will guard well the interest & 
salvation of this People regardless of all Consequences & I feel it my duty as an Apostles ol 
Jesus Christ & an Elder in Israel to sustain him in his office & back up his testimony by my faith 
& works & I also consider it the duty of evry Apostle Bishop, Elder, & officer & member in the 
Church of Jesus Christ to do the same. If we are not willing to do it we are not worthy of the 
place we occupy. 

And when we know that sin wickedness & improper Conduct exhist in any of our wards we 
should rebuke that evil & correct it in our own houses & wards & not leave it all for President 
Young to do. We have Evils in our own ward. We have wicked men who will blaspheme the 
name of God & who are striving to destroy our wives & daughters. I have seen some of those 


Page 194 




same men come here to meeting & set & laugh me in the face all the while I was speaking & they 
will set & laugh the Bishop in the face while he is speaking. This class of young men some of 
them are members of the church. Yet they will join with the wicked & come here to meeting & 
take a seat in the back part of the house & get together in a group & agather all the young women 
& girls around them they can & then conduct in a rediculous manner instead of paying attention 
to the preaching. That class of men should stay at home for while they Conduct as they do I 
would rather have their room than their company. They are also useing evry exhertion to draw 
away our young women & girls to parties & would destroy them if they could. 

Shall we sleep unconcerned as Elders & parents while these scenes are enacted around us? No I 
will not do it & I feel to exhort this congregation to wake up & know what is going on around 
them & their families & not suffer your wives & daughters to mingle with Military officers 
soldiers, Horslers & cooks & gentiles in balls parties rides & other amusements untill they are 
defiled & destroyed. 

It is much easier to keep your hands out of the fire than to Cure them after they are burned. I 
would far prefer to bury any wife or child I have than to have them live to dishonor my name & 
disgrace themselves by commiting sin with the gentiles. If the Bishop sees any member of my 
family children or wives come here to meeting & take a seat in the back part of the House & 
spend the time in play instead of attending to the preaching I wish him to call them by name & let 
them be reproved openly if they will take that course for they all know that to be against my 
council & I wish the Bishop would pursue that Course with all persons who come here & do not 
do right. 

We should not be ashamed or afraid to rebuke wickedness sin & abominations wh[are/en?]ever 
we know of its existence in our midst, for by doing right we will ever be supported by the right 
hand of the Lord. There is not the least trembling in my body or spirit because of the results that 
may arise from resisting & rebuking sin for I would rather die wifeless & Childless & see my 
dwellings laid in ruins & my own body fall in the gap than to permit whordoms, wickedness & 
abominations to exhist in our families wards & cities unrebuked & unchecked]. For we as a 
people have to sanctify ourselves before the Lord in order to have the blessings & approbation of 
the Lord upon us. 

It will be far better for us to restrain our Children from Evil than to suffer them to go headlong to 
ruin & they will thank God to all Eternity that there parents have given them good council & 
retrained them from Evil rather than to be permitted to plunge into misery sin sorrow & woe. We 
should treat our wives & Children with kindness & affection & give them good Council & when 
we have done all we can for them then if they will do wrong & go to ruin our garments are clear 
& I hope from this time forth that we may not look upon sin with any degree of allowance of 
approbation which may God grant for Christ Amen. 

I was followed in my remarks by Bishop Hoagland. Phineas Richards Joseph Horn & Samuel 
Richards all backed up my testimony. The spirit of the Lord rested upon us & we had a good 


Page 195 




time. 


19th I spent a part of the day in the Historians office & the evening in the Grammar school. 

20th I spent the day at home studying English Grammar. We had a snow stonn. 

21st I spent most of the day studying & the evening in Grammar school. 

22d I spent part of the day studying. I was called upon & went & laid hands upon Father Joseph 
Russel who was taken vary sick. I met in the evening with a part of the board of the Universal 
Cientific society. We did but little business & returned home. 

23d I called to see brother Russel to day. He was sum better. I attended the Grammar school at 
night. 

24th [] I settled with the tithing office this day & paid them cash to balance Books $52.50. 1 have 
paid some $250 for tithing since my last Settlement. I wrote 4 letters to day to } L. N. Scovil, 
Elisha Wilcox, Jonathan Campbell, & Crandle Dunn. 

25 Sunday I Preached in the Tabernacle in the morning & was followed [by] H. C. Kimball. We 
both preached vary plain. In the afternoon O Hyde & H. C. Kimball preached. We had plain 
pointed preaching all day. I attended the prayer circle in the evening. 

26th My son Wilford & myself rode to the west mountain & had a stonn most of the day. I 
bought a two year old heifer of Lorenzo Young & she proved to be of the Calafornia breed. We 
got her into the City & she tried to returned back. She tiered us & our horses out & I got 3 men to 
help me & we got two larrietts on her & she fought us till midnight like a tiger but we finally got 
her into a pen at home after being wearied out & came nigh being killed several times & our 
Horses tired out. Travled 40 miles. 

27th I spent the day at home. Was about sick. 

28th } [] The calafornia mail came in last night & brought me one letter from J. M. Bemhisel & 
the N. york Tribune. We did not get much news. I wrote one Letter to J. M. Bernhisel. 

March 

March 1st 1855 This is my birth day. I am 48 years of age this day. Thus time is rapidly hurrying 
me through life like the rest of mankind. I spent the day mostly at home. 

2d I spent the day drawing post into the field. I attended the grammar school at night. 

3d I spent this day drawing post. I attended the meeting of the Universal Scientific Society during 
the evening. We had a good meeting. 

4th Sunday Elder Carnes preached in the morning. Was followed by H C Kimball. In the 
afternoon E. D. Woolley preached. Was followed by O Hyde. 


Page 196 




5th I spent the day drawing post. Three men commenced ditching for me to day. I attended the 
grammar school this evening. 

6th I drew posts & rails to day for fenceing. 

7th I drew posts & rails to day. Attended Grammar school at night. 

8th I rode to the west mountain through Lorenzo Youngs herd of cattle & to white Herd & got a 
two year old Heifer out of whites Herd & a cow out of Youngs Herd belonging to me & drove 
them home. I rode some 50 miles. 

9th I drew some poles & posts to the field & attended school at night. 

10 11 Brother Joseph Russel died this morning 20 minuts past 2 oclock about 70 years of age 
from Merimichi. He Has been a faithful Latter day saint & High priest. He has given nearly all 
his means to the Church amounting to about $70,000 dollars in all. 

1 1th Sunday I attended Brother Joseph Russels funeral. I made a prayer & delivered a short 
address to the people before going to the grave. I accompanied the Corps to the grave in the 
midst of a Cold rain stonn. The Coffin was in the same shape [that] Dr Willard Richards was 
who died one year ago this day. I did not attend meeting in the tabernacles but attended the prayer 
Circle. President Young suggested that I had better Administer upon the Esstate. 

12th I spent the day at home & evening at the Grammar School. 

131 spent the day labouring at home. 

14th I spent the day at home & evening in school. 

15th [] The Eastern mail Came in to day & brought me 2 letters from Ilus F Carter & Ozem 
Woodruff. I also received a Letter from Lucian N Scovil. I received a paper from J. M. Bernhisel. 

16th I drew poles into the big field for fensing & attended School at night. 

17th I spent the day mostly at home. I attended the meeting of the Universal Scientific Society in 
the evening. 

18th Sunday Brother Kesler preached in the morning. Was followed by H. C. Kimball who spoke 
vary plain & pointed. In the Afternoon Elder O Hyde delivered a written address & took for his 
text a portion of the presidents message. He was followed by G. A. Smith with a vary interesting 
discourse. I attended the prayer Circle in the evening & the meeting at the 14th ward School 
House. Samuel Richards spoke & I followed him. The spirit of the Lord was with us. 

19th I drew poles in the big field. I got my feet wet & took Cold. I attended a grammar school in 
the evening. 


Page 197 




20th I spent the day at home writing. I wrote 2 letters to Ozem } } Woodruff a long letter & sent 
him 2 paper D News containing the Universal scientific society organization & Joseph Smith & 

B Young sermons. I sent the same to I F Carter & also a letter both mailed to day. I also received 
two papers from J. M. Bernhisel. 

2 1st I spent the day at home reading & writing. I met with the Board of the Society in the 
evening. 

22d I spent a part of the day ploughing. In the afternoon I attended the Mayor's Court. The 
military officers had entered Complaint against some boys for running Horses by them & 
insulting them in the street. The suit was dismissed on account of no law against running horses 
& the officers had the Cost to pay. 

23d I spent the day ploughing & attended Grammar school in the evening. 

24 I sowed 2 Acres of Oats to day & attended the Universal scientific society in the evening. We 
had a full house & an interesting adress from David Ca[ntling?] upon the history of the Russians 
the Russian war & its results upon the world. 

25 Sunday I spent the fore part of the day at home reading & writing. I attended Prayer meeting 
in the evening. 

26 to 30 I spent the time ploughing & sowing Oats & other labour. 

311 rode through Lorenzo Youngs herd of cattle Hunting for some of my own but did not find 
them. I then rode to the city of E.T. in Toille valley & spent the night with Brother Maughn. 
Distance of the day 40 mils. /I attended a conference of Elders in the evening./ 

April 

April 1st Sunday E T Benson & myself met with the Elders & Saints who had assembled from 
the different settlements in the valley for a general meeting. I preached to them in the forenoon. 
We had a great shower of rain in the afternoon & during the night yet Brother Benson preached 
to them in the afternoon we had a good meeting. I spent the night with Brother Cory. 

2d I left Toilly valley & hunted Cattle all day on my return home & spent the night at home. 40 
mils. 

3, 4, & 5 I spent the time gardning & makeing Fence. 

April 6th 1855 General Conference met in the Tabernacle at 10 oclock President Brigham Young 
Presiding H C Kimball, & J. M. Grant in the stand. Of the Twelve Apostles O Hyde O. Pratt W. 
Woodruff G A Smith E. T Benson C C. Rich & L Snow. The whole procedings are published in 
the 5th No vol 5th of the Deserett News so it will be unnecessary for me to record it in this 
Journal. This day was spent in addresses from the presidency & presenting the Authorities of the 


Page 198 




Church. 


7th The Tabernacle Could not hold the people so they met out in a Bowery. There were supposed 
to be 12,000 people present. This day was spent in hearing the financial affairs of the Church 
presented which was vary satisfactory to the people Also in organizeing the Deserett Theological 
Institute & some Addressed. 

8th Sunday This day was mostly spent in hearing the testimony of the Twelve Apostles & the 
Presidency. Much of the spirit of God rested upon the people & we never had a Better 
Conference. About 160 men were appointed missions mostly to the Lamanites. The Conference 
Adjourned till the 6th Oct next. I herd an important address from B Young to the Bishops 
reported By Dr Vale. 

9th to 13 I spent this week mostly in tearing down & re[..]ing stables. 

April 14th I spent this day with the Presidency Twelve & missionaries who met at the 70" Hall. 
We had an address from President Young & others. I met this evening with the Universal 
Scientific in their Annual meeting. 

15th Sunday I Attended meeting in the Tabernacle. President Grant Preached in the morning 
upon natural Phylosophy & was followed by President Young. Both discourses were vary 
interesting & were taken by the reporters. O Hyde Preached in the afternoon. 

16 to 21 I spent this week mostly Gardning. I met this evening with the Universal scientific 
society. 

22d Sunday I met with the quorum of the 12, & the missionaries at the 70" Hall at 8 oclock for 
the purpose of blessing & setting apart the missionaries & ordaining men to the ministry. There 
were over 100 set apart by the laying on of hands to their various missions among the Lamanites. 
This was done by the Twelve & seventies. I blessed about 40 persons & ordained 10 seventies in 
Company with Joseph Young & A. P. Rockwood. Our meeting Closed at 3 oclock. The 
missionaries were addressed By O Hyde & E. T. Benson. 

We then went to the prayer Circle & arangements were made for us to go south with President 
Young. 

Capt R Ingals has been arested for the crime of abduction & a bill found against him from the 
Grand Jury. After several days trial it was withdrawn from the court. 

23 & 24 I spent the time labouring in my garden. 

25th I spent the day at work & in the evening I attended the first meeting of the Deserett 
Theological Society. The Presidency Twelve & a large assembly of saints were present & we 
herd an interesting address from President Young upon Theology which was taken by the 
reporters. 


Page 199 




26 27 & 28 I spent the time mostly ploughing & planting potatoes. In company with the Twelve 
in the evening we laid hands upon John L. Smith who lay vary sick with the inflamitory 
Rheumatism not able to move any part of his body except one hand. He was appointed to go on a 
mission. We rebuked his desease & set him apart to this mission. O Hyde was mouth. He 
manifested much faith in going & resolved to start if he had to be carried on a bed. I then 
attended the universal Cientific society. 

29th Sunday I spent the day at home writing an account of Josephs interview with the 
Potawatamie chiefs. O Pratt Preached a vary interesting discourse at the Tabernacle on the 
resurrection. O Hyde preached in the afternoon. I attended the prayer Circle in the evening. 

30th I spent the day at home. 


May 

May 1, 2, 3, & 4 I spent this time wattering wheat. The grasshoppers are destroying nearly all the 
crops of the Earth. 

May 5th I met with the Presidency & 12 in the House of the Lord built upon the Temple Block & 
we dedicated it before the Lord. Brother E. T. Benson opened by prayer & after the usual 
cerimonies H C Kimball proceded to dedicate the House by prayer. He named in his prayer evry 
room from top to bottom evry wall & material Adobies sand clay stone Lime from the foundation 
to the top. Prayed that the spirit of God might enter into it that it might be clean sweet & Holy & 
that no unclean thing might enter into it so that Holy men women God & Angels might visit it. 

President Young said He would name it the House of God & when the Temple is built He would 
call it the Temple of our God. 

After we closed several missionaries received their endowments. This House was dedicated by B 
Young H C. Kimball J M Grant O Hyde O. Pratt W. Woodruff D Wells E. D. Woolley Dr 
Sprague J Cummings. I spent the remainder of the day & settling my business. I attended the 
Universal scientific Society in the evening. We had quite a frost during the night. 

6th Sunday John Young preached in the Tabernacle in the fore noon. George Q Cannon preached 
in the afternoon concerning His mission to the Islands the Customs of the Natives the special 
manifestations of the work of God among them certain acts Customs, & deeds which if men 
practiced they were to suffer death. 

He was followed By President Young in an interesting discourse upon the subject of our building 
up the kingdom of God, Having faith, trusting in God under all circumstances in life. His 
discourse was reported. 

I attended the Prayer Circle whare I herd some interesting teaching from President Young in 
social Conversation which was not reported. The following is a key to some of the principles He 


Page200 




advanced: 


He refered to the preaching of Orson Pratt & Orson Hyde the Sabbath before upon the subject of 
the resurrection. He said the Identical particles of matter in which we had honored our spirits 
with ie. our tabernacles in which we had suffered travelled, laboured, & built up the kingdom of 
God that would be the Identical body & no other that would be raised from the grave to 
immortality & Eternal life. 

Adam & Eve had lived upon another Earth. Were immortal when they came here. Adam assisted 
in forming this Earth & agreed to fall when He came Here & He fell that man might be & the 
opposite principle to good the devel, the serpent, the Evil was plased upon the Earth that man 
might know the good from the Evil for without an Experience in these things man Could not 
know the one from the other. 

As soon as the devil was on Earth He sowed the seeds of Death in evry thing. So as soon as they 
began to eat of the fruit of the Earth they received into their system the seeds of mortality & of 
Death. So their Children wer mortal & subject to death sorrow pain & wo. Then when they 
partook of life, Joy, ease, & Happiness they would know how to prize it. 

Father Adam would never scease his labours to redeem his posterity & exhalt them to all the 
glory they were Capable of receiving. He did not doubt but that Father Adam knew in the 
beginning how many of his posterity would receive a Celestial glory & who they were & also a 
Terrestrial & a Telestial. Yet man had his agency to act chuse & refuse good or evil as seemed 
him good & he would be rewarded according to his works. 

O. Pratt asks will Adam or any God continue to make worlds people them taste of Death to 
redeem them? Answer. I have no doubt but it is his privilege but whether He will do it is a 
question in my mind. How then can his seed increase to all Eternity? Through the increase of his 
posterity. Many other remarks were made by the President. 

Monday 7th I bought 50 bushels of wheat at $1.00 & 900 lbs flour for $54. 1 then rode to Toillee 
& took one yoke of red oxen & one pair of Horses & 3 calves to leave with Brother Maughn at 
the city of E.T. untill my return. I preached to the people in the evening & had a good time. I 
spent the night with Brother Maughn. 25 m. 

8th I returned home to the city of the great Salt Lake & spent the night at home. 25 mils. 

9th Wednesday I left the city of the great Salt Lake & in Company with Brother [ ] Cherry I 

started to overtake the Presidency & company who had started the day before to visit the 
Southern settlements as far as Iron County. We rode to dry creek in Utah valley & spent the night 
with Brother Daniel Thomas in Lehi City. I preached to the people & had a good time. 34 mils. 

10th I rode to Petetenet & there over took the company. We had a meeting. J M. Grant Preached. 
Was followed by H C. Kimball & W. Woodruff. I spent the night with James M. Jones. 40 mils. 


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1 1th We rode to Salt creek & nooned. We then rode through Salt Creek Canyon & camped at 
Uinta Springs. 5 miles. Their is a good Clear stream of water running through this valley 
Containing many trout. I cought 5 with a hook. Some others Cought some. This a good valley of 
land. A good number of the brethren accompanied us from salt creek Fort. They sung In the 
evening & we had prayers. 

12th We rode 7 miles & camped. We then took a few waggons. Rode 3 miles to the west to the 
foot of a small canyon. We there left our waggons & Horses & walked 1 1/4 miles to the head of 
the Canyon & their visited a splendid good coal mine. The vein was about 6 feet thick. It diped to 
the west about 20 degrees. The coal was of excellent quality. We brought some of it away with 
us. It was in sight on both sides of the Canyon. This coal bed lies about 10 miles north north west 
from Fort Ephraim. 

After returning to Camp we rode 17 miles to Fort Ephraim & spent the night. We held a meeting. 
J M Grant /Brother MCIntosh/ Preached. Was followed by H. C. Kimball & the meeting was 
dismissed by J. M. Grant. I spent the night with Brother Isaac Behunnin. 20 mils. 

Fort Ephraim is laid out with an inner fort 12 1/2 by 15 rods built with a stone wall 2 feet thick 
10 feet high finished. An outside wall built of splendid white limestone 4 feet thick at the bottom 
2 feet at the top 18 feet high 60 by 44 rods. The city contains 400 inhabitants two thirds Danes. 
They have a school taught by a man in the winter & female during summer. This city has been 
esstablish or setteled but about one year. The inside wall is built & the outside wall is built & two 
thirds of the outside wall is built 7 feet High & a part of it is 14 feet high. The intention is to 
build the dwellings against the outside wall making the wall one side of the dweling. Reuben 
Alread is bishop & Elijah Everett is president. 

13th Sunday Meeting at 10 oclock. The Danish brethren sung. J. M. Grant preached. Was 
followed by H. C. Kimball & President Young. W Woodruff reported. At the close of the 
meeting the company rode to Manti & held a meeting. Brother Cherry lost his horses & as I rode 
with him we did not get there till near dark so I did not get there to attend the meeting. Lorenzo 
Young preached & was followed by some others. The Presidency did not attend. 

On my Arival President Young requested me to get the brethren together who were appointed to 
go [to] the Elk mountain & set them apart for their mission. We met at the House of Brother 
Billings & President Grant & myself set apart 12 persons to the Elk Mountain & 2 to Los Vegus. 
We ordained 6 to the quorum of Seventies. President Grant addressed them in the spirit & power 
of God. Truman Angel bore testimony & was followed by W. Woodruff who reported J. M. 
Grants remarks. See report. The whole number appointed & set apart to the Elk mountain was 
40. 

I spent the night at Brother Shoemakers. 14 mils. 

Manti contains a population of 140 families 560 souls. They have 2 schools 100 scholars in 


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winter & 50 in summer. The City of Manti Contains an Inside fort built of stone 10 rods square 2 
feet thick 10 feet high. Their outside wall is 102 rods square 3 feet thick at the bottom 18 inches 
at the top 12 feet high. This wall is finished 8 feet high & 40 rods is 12 feet [ ]. 

Monday 14 We left Manti & rode to Greese wood creek & nooned. We then rode to the Seveare 
bridge & crossed it & rode 2 miles & Camped for the night by the Cedars. We met with Brother 
Charles C Rich & Camped at the Severe bridge who camped with us at night. Distance 40 mils. 
We had a hard shower of rain in the evening. 

15th We rode to some springs & nooned. We then drove to Filmore City & spent the night. It was 
a vary disagreeable day to Journey. A high wind which drove a Cloud of dust most of the day in 
our faces. 

We held a meeting with the people of Filmore at 5 oclok. President Young H C Kimball & J M 
Grant Preached. W. Woodruff reported. Brothers MCintosh & Eloback took some nots as they 
have at all the meetings on the Journey. We had a good meeting & the spirit of God was with us. 
See report. 

We have found nearly all the wheat eat up by the Grass hoppers all the way from Salt Lake City 
to this place. The president has refered to this in most of the meetings. At the close of the 
meeting In company with J. M. Grant I visited the wing of the State House which contains a roof 
& it is a noble Edifice indeed. I spent the night with Brother [Johnsen?]. Distance of the day 35 
miles. 

Filmore City Contains 100 families numbering 500 souls. The present encloser is 1/4 mile square 
10 feet high 20 inches thick one half Adobies & the other half pickets all built. The intended City 
is to include 200 lots 1 1/4 acre per lot making 24 Blocks. They have quite a commodious 
meeting house finished. They have two schools & 75 soholiars. The wing of the state House in 
Filmore has the roof on & It is a stately Edifice. It is 61 feet 8 inches long and 40 feet 4 inches 
wide on the ground. The basement story is 10 feet high & the 2d story 12 the 3d or upper story 19 
feet making the side walls including width of Joist 43 feet 6 inch. The battlement end is about 10 
feet higher than the sides. The Basement has an Alley running length ways through the building 7 
feet wide. Each side is divided into 4 rooms each. The second story has the same width Alley 
running through the building & the sides are divided into 3 rooms each. The upper story is to be 
finished into one room or Hall. The basement Story wall is 3 feet thick the remainder of the 
building 2 feet. The Cornish is on & a part of the roof shingled. 

Wednesday 16 We left Filmore. Rode to Corn Creek which contains an Indian settlement of the 
parvants. David Kanosh Tashabets is their main Chief. Parashon is also a Chief. 

Teweepponakary is his present name. We stoped a short time with them. About a doz of the 
Indians with their chiefs mounted their horses & rode with us on our Journey. We trayled till 1 
oclok & nooned. Then drove to cove Creek & camped for the night. The Indians camped with us. 
Distance of the day 40 miles & a hard road. Some of the teams gave [out]. The Indians Shot 
prarie Dogs [and] rabbits for their supper. They rosted the dogs a little then eat them entrails 


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young ones & all. 

17 We rode to the bever & spent the night. I cought 2 trout which I gave to Presidents Young & 
Kimball. Distance 35 mile. 

18th We rode 30 miles without water to a small creek then nooned. Then crossed Red creek & 
drove to Parawan. Distance 40 miles. We met with G. A. Smith here we visited his flouring mill 
which is a good esstablishment. We held a meeting with the People. President Young Preached 
upon the Law of Consecration. W Woodruff reported. See report. 

I wrote a Letter to my wife } at Salt Lake & sent by the Calafornia mail which came in yesterday. 
It brought me one letter from Edward Partridge & 2 Numbers of B the mormon. I spent the might 
with Samuel West. 

19 Saturday The wind is blowing a gale & has been for several days. It raises a cloud of dust 
which blows in our faces & waggons which makes it vary disagreeable travelling. We rode to 
Cedar City. 18 miles. 

I stoped with Brother Pugmire. After dinner I visited the Iron works. And I felt to rejoice to find 
them in blast & making good Iron & Casting pipes, Cranks, & any thing they needed about their 
works. They have tried for several years to make Iron but Could not accomplish it untill of late. 
The Presidency & most of the Company were present to see them cast & was much pleased with 
it. We exhamined all the works Coak, Coal, Ore of different kinds & took specemins with us. 

We then returned to the city. The Iron works are about 1 mile from the city. Cedar City Contains 
145 families, 725 souls. Their fort is surrounded with a wall half a mile square 18 inches thick 8 
feet high built of Adobies & stone. They have 145 dwellings very good buildings for the time it 
has been settled. They have a tithing office built 43 By 25 feet two stories a good sullar & upper 
room finished. It Cost $2,500. The main portion of the building is not finished. They have a 
meeting house 60 by 25 feet. They have had 3 schools during winter, 2 men schools 1 female, 2 
schools during summer. This settlement much needs men & teams to carry on their Iron works. 

We had a Council in the evening. The Presidency & 12 were present. The time was spent in Chit 
Chat upon the consecration & other things. 

Thomas P Smith gave me the following report of Fort Johnson 6 miles north of Cedar City. It 
contains 6 families 40 persons. The fort wall is 10 rods square 4 feet thick at the bottom 2 1/2 at 
the top. Is now built 8 feet high. Is to be Carried up 12 feet. The place contains many fine springs 
enough to watter 100 Acres of land. A good grazing Country for a large heard of Cattle. 

May 20 Sunday The People assembled at the meeting house at 10 oclock. Meeting was opened 
By Prayer by W Woodruff. J. M. Grant addressed the people & was followed by H. C Kimball. 
Both had the spirit of the Lord & we had a good meeting. 

At 2 oclok the people again assembled & was Addressed by President Brigham Young / and He 


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was followed by G A Smith/ & all was Edifyed. W Woodruff reported through the day. Brother 
Ellebeck & MCIntosh both took nots. 

At the commencement of the meeting in the Afternoon President Young said we have some 
Church business to attend to & I move that we resolve ourselves into a special Conference. It was 
seconded & carried unanimously. It was then moved & carried that Isaac Haight be appointed the 
President of this stake of Zion which imbraces Cedar City, Harmony, & Johnsons Fort & that He 
choose his two Councillors. It was then moved & carried that Jonathan Pugmire sen. Robert 
Wiley, Samuel White, Richard Harrison Perry Liston, Iria Allen Samuel Lee, Laban Morrel, 
Rufus C Allen Thomas D. Brown, Joshua T Willis & Charles Hopkins be chosen & ordained as 
the twelve High Councellors for this stake of Zion. 

At the close of the meeting William Rees Davis was ordained a Bishop for fort Harmony under 
the hands of the first Presidency President Young being mouth. They also Ordained Isaac Haight 
to the Presidency of the stake president Young being mouth. The Twelve High Councellors were 
then set apart by Presidents Kimball & Grant. 

I then went with Brother Lee & Pugmire to see Brother James Boswell. <He led me far as Indian 
[Point?] for which I paid him> $30. 1 met with a number of the brethren from fort Hannony. 
Among the number was T D Brown A Hardy & S Atwood & Thomas P. Smith of Fort Johnson. I 
took supper with Elder J. D. Lee. He gave me the following report of Harmony: 

Fort Harmony is 200 feet square 8 feet high. When fini[shed it] is to be 22 feet high fonning one 
wall for two story buildings. Its foundation is stone & the remainder is Adobies. The first story is 
3 feet the 2d story 2 feet. This fort contains 42 rooms on the ground 15 by 16 feet. There are 40 
families & 260 persons. One meeting house 26 by 16. A tithing House 20 By 15 feet. A guard 
House 12 by 16 feet. One Female school kept. There is one public well in the fort 86 feet deep 
stoned up & good water. They have a field of 500 Acres one half of it fenced, 300 Acres of it in 
wheat. They have but one gate to their fort which is 10 by 12 feet & one foot thick, strongly 
hung. Cannot be opened from the outside. One woman on the inside can shut it but it takes 
several men to open it. They have made a farm for the Indians of 50 Acres. 25 is now in wheat. 
They made a good road from Fort Walker to Fort Harmony on a strait line of 12 mile. Was made 
by a machine drawn by 8 yoke of oxen. 

During the evening I met with several of the Brethren in the upper room of the Council House. 
After G. A. Smith officiated in some [ ] we set apart Brother Hulse to his mission to Israel. 

Remarks were made by W Woodruff C C. Rich & several others upon the subject of the mission. 

21st Monday I got an Indian boy of Brother James Bosnel. He was about a doz years of age. His 
name was Moroni Eliga Bosnel. His wife wishes her Endowment & they wish me to write & 
inform them when they can have it. I met with several Brethren from Hannony. Among the 
number was Brother Atwood, Allen, T D Brown & Augustus B Hardy who wishes me to request 
Elias Smith to send him occasionally a paper to cheer their Hearths Direct to the Upper station on 
the Santa Clarra by the mail canier. 


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We left Cedar City & rode to Parawan. I took a minute of the place. I stoped at Brother Samuel 
West. We had a meeting at 4 oclock a full House. The People were addressed by President 
Young upon the Authority of the Priesthood in its different offices. W Woodruff reported. At the 
close of the meeting John P. Hall, Charles Hall, Preddy Meeks Horace M Allexander Samuel 
Gool & Elijah Elmer was called to fill up the vacancy in the High Council. We then repaired to 
the upper room of G A Smith, And we ordained the High Counsel or set them apart to their 
office. 4 of them we ordained High Priest. They were set apart ordained under the hands of J. M. 
Grant W. Woodruff & J. C. L. Smith. J M Grant W. Woodruff & G. A. Smith also set apart John 
Steel & Wm C. Mitchel to their mishion to the Loss Vegus. Distance of the day 19 m. 

I took supper with Brother Hall & spent the night with Brother West. 

Parawan Contains 400 inhabitants. Their wall is 108 rods square 12 feet high. 7 feet of it is built. 
It is 6 feet thick at the bottom 2 1/2 feet at the top with 4 gates. Wall made of Earth. It contains 
80 dwellings some of which are two stories & good ones. Their meeting House is 48 By 22 feet 
with two Ells 16 feet square 2 stories high, 3 rooms above one finished for a prayer circle. Their 
is one school House 22 by 18 feet, one Grist Mill 35 by 30 feet on the ground 3 stories High, now 
grinding belonging to G A Smith & J. C. L. Smith. A sash & Chair factory & Machine shop 2 
Blacksmith shops. Their public square 10 Acres. A Liberty pole single stick 87 feet. One man 
school & 120 schollars. Their big field contains 1,120 acres enclosed with a good fence. John C 
L Smith President Tarlton Lewis Bishop. 

Tuesday 22d We left Parawan & rode to Bever 35 miles & camped for the night. I cought 3 fine 
trout. 

23d We left Bever & rode to Corn Creek. 52 miles. We met the missionaries on our rout to day 
going to Los Vegus. 

24 We rode to Filmore to Breakfast. 12 miles. I took breakfast at Brother Johnsons. We had a 
meeting with the people at 10 oclock. W W. Phelps Preached upon the subjects of Common 
schools followed by J. M. Grant who spoke upon the subject of Plurality of wives & other things 
in an interesting manner but it was not reported. After meeting we rode to Lake valley. 24 miles. 
Whole distance of the day 36 miles. The missionaries destined to the white mountains under the 
presidency of Bishop Evins arived in camp soon after we did & spent the night with us. They 
were in good spirits. 36. 

25 We rode to the severe & wattered our horses. We then rode to chicken creek & nooned. We 
crossed the new bridge over chicken creek Just [made?] for $100 by United States 
appropriations. We then rode to salt creek in a rain stonn. Salt Creek Fort is 104 Rods square 6 
feet thick at the bottom 2 1/2 feet thick at the top 12 feet high & nearly finished. It contains 80 
families & 350 persons. They have 1 man school of 50 schollars. We took supper at this Fort & 
rode on to the Springs & camped for the night. 54 mile. 


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Saturday 26 We started at 5 oclock. Rode to summit & on to payson & took breakfast. Pason 
wall is 96 rods square. Is to be 12 feet High 6 feet thick at the bottom 2 at the top. The wall is 
now built 6 feet high. This fort contains 90 families 450 inhabitants 110 Able bodied men 3 
schools containing 100 schollars. 

We rode to Palmyra but did not stop. I did not get the statistics of the place. Their wall is 72 by 
74 rods. 

We then rode to springville & dined. Springville Fort wall is 3/4 of a mile square 12 feet High 6 
feet thick at the bottom 2 1/2 at the top. 40 rods is completed & 2 sides 6 foot high. Springville 
Contains 1,000 inhabitants 200 Able bodied men, 3 schools, 1 Male 2 Female schools. 

After dining we rode to Provo. Made but few moments halt. Provo wall is one mile square 6 feet 
thick at the bottom 2 at the top 12 feet high. One half of the wall finished. Population 250 [sic\. 
500 families & houses. Some good improvements. 1 seminary containing 4 school Rooms. 4 
schools now kept Containing 100 schollars. Two grist mills 2 saw mills 1 Carding machine cloth 
dressing &c, & one tithing office. 

We drove on to Plesant grove & took supper. Plesant grove wall is 80 rods square 8 feet high 
built of stone 3 feet thick at the bottom 18 inches at the top. It is finished 4 feet high. It contains 
60 families 300 persons. 1 Adobie school House 18 By 30 feet. 60 dwellings Erected. We drove 
through Lake City Containing 75 families 375 persons. Did not stop. 

We Drove through Lehi. Their wall is 120 rods square 12 feet high 6 feet thick at the bottom 3 
foot thick at the top. It is finished 5 feet high. Lehi Contains 640 persons 3 schools 75 schollars 
one Tithing office 33 By 24 feet 2 Stories high. We drove on to the point of the mountain & 
camped for the night. Whole distance of the day 55 miles. 

Sunday 27th The camp was called at 3 oclock in the morning. Arropene with his band had been 
camped upon the bank of Jordon for a day or two to have an interview with the Govornor & as 
we began to leave the ground at the break of day they discoverd our camp moving & set up a 
howl hoop or hollow for us to stop but Brother Huntington the interpeter waited till they came 
up. They inquired if we were mad. Interpeter answered no the Governor had presents for them for 
giving up the murderers of Gunnison but it was Sunday & he wished to get to the city to attend 
meeting. We left the point of the mountain & rode to the Great Salt Lake City by 9 oclock. 25 
miles. 

Thus we had made a Journey to Cedar City via Sanpete & back a distance of 600 miles in less 
than 3 weeks. Brother Cherry stoped & took breakfast with us then went on home. I found my 
family well on my return home. } I received 2 letters from Ilus & many books & papers from J. 

M Bernhisel by the Eastern mail we found that nearly all the wheat crops & other vegitable were 
eat up by the grass hoppers through the Territory as far as we went & most of the crops & 
vegitables in the city gardens were also destroyed. On our arival in the city we separated to our 


Page207 




several homes. 


We attended meeting in the afternoon in the Tabernacle & found a full House. J. M. Grant spoke 
to the people. Was followed by H. C. Kimball & B Young. The spirit of the Lord rested upon the 
people & those who spoke & we had a good meeting. 

After President Young Closed, Arrowpene the Chief that was appointed in Walker plase arose 
[and] asked the privilege to speak. President Young introduced him to the people. He gave a 
short but spirited address which was interpeted by Brother Huntington. The purport of his 
Address was exhorting the people to give heed to the Council of President Young. If they would 
do this & keep the spirit of the Lord they would not be sick & die as the wicked do but would be 
healthy. The Lord is given you great blessings in food & rament oxen cows & horses & we 
should be faithful & thankful. 

I attended the prayer Circle in the evening & had a good time. I herd several letters read from 
Joseph Smith upon the Islands Joseph Young Wm. Kimball, G M Grant & others which were 
vary interesting & showed that the spirit of the Fathers was in them. 

28th I spent most of the day in writing in my Journal. 

29th } I wrote 2 letters to I F Carter & Edward Partridge at Kalikiwai Kauai Sandwich Islands. I 
also wrote an account of the Journey of President Young & company South for the Editor of the 
News. 

30 & 3 1 I spent the time mostly night & day drawing of the sermons of President Young which 
He preached to the people while on his Journey South. I have in my possession my own notes not 
drawn off of Presidents Kimball & Grant. The nots of MCIntosh & Ellibeck containing the same 
sermons or portions of them are in the Hands of the Historian. 

June 

June 1st I spent this day drawing of the Presidents sennons. 

2d I took my wife & children & rode to the City of E T in Toille. Elder Benson had arived a short 
time before me. 

3d Sunday I preached twice to the inhabitants of E T. during the day & brother Benson in the 
evening & I followed him. He also preached at Grantsville during the day. I spent the night at 
Brother Corys. 25 mi. 

4th I returned to the city of the Great Salt Lake. 

5th I planted Potatoes, corn, squashes, pumpkins &c on the ground whare the grass hoppers had 
eat up my wheat. 

6th to 9th I spent the time wattering garden drawing stone &c. I attended the Universal Scientific 


Page208 




Society at night. 

10th Sunday I spent the fore noon writing the afternoon I attended meeting. 

We had an interesting discourse deliverd by Dr Richardson on Saturday Evening upon the subject 
of Generation. Was followed by J. M. Grant & W. Woodruff. He made the subject very 
interesting & showed that it was of vast importance to posterity that parents kept good & 
holesom laws in generation. Many interesting remarks were made by Dr Richardson & Grant. 

1 1 to 16th I spent the time drawing stone & hunting cattle. 

17th I spent the time at meeting. In the evening I attended the prayer circle. 

18 President Young & Company started on their tour North. 

18th to 23d I spent the time drawing stone sand Clay &c for building me a grainary & dwelling 
House. 

24th Sunday I spent the time at home & attended the prayer circle & also preached in the 14 ward 
School House in the evening. 

25th to 30 I spent the time wattering ploughing, hoeing & planting com. [] } I received a letter 
from the inhabitants of Springville [-] upon the subject of organizing a branch of the Universal 
Scientific society. I also received 89 Nos of the mormon & a Book from Washington. I wrote a 
letter to Springville & one to I F Carter. 

29 Judge Shaver was found dead in his bed to day at 1 oclock. 

30 The funeral of Judge Shaver was attended to day with high honour & respect. 

July 

July 1st Sunday I attended meeting at the tabernacle. Joseph Young spoke in the forenoon & took 
for his text this is Eternal life to know God & Jesus Christ whom He has sent, & in the afternoon 
liberty was given to the Congregation & several spoke. I attended the prayer Circle in the 
evening. 

2 & 3 I spent the time planting & hoeing. 

July 4th This day was spent in the celebration of the independance of America And a great 
display was made in the City of the Great Salt Lake. See Deserett News July 1 1 . 

5 to 7 Was spent Haying. 

July 8th \ Sunday J. M. Grant spoke from the Lords prayer and was filled with the spirit of God. 
He spoke very plain Concerning the kingdom of God & Gentiles who worked abominations in 
Zion. He was followed by O Pratt upon the same subject in an interesting manner. 


Page209 




In the afternoon President Young Addressed the people upon the subject of the Gentiles Coming 
to Zion & interfereing with our institutions polluting our females & committing abominations in 
Israel. He declaired they should be put to death if they followed it any more. I attended the prayer 
circle in the evening. 

9 & 10 I spent the time Haying. 

1 1th I left the city of G.S.L in company with G A Smith & Samuel Richards to go to provo to 
hold a three days meeting with the Presidency & Twelve. We rode to Lehi in Utah & spent the 
night with Bishop Evans. Distance 30 mils. 

12th We rode to Provo. Went down the Provo River & caught some 2 bushels of fish with a net. I 
spent the night with G. A Smith. President Young & Company came in the evening. 18 mils. 

13th The Conference opened at Provo this morning by Prayer & the People were addressed by 
President Brigham Young in the fore part of the day & followed by H. C Kimball in the 
afternoon by J. M. Grant & Samuel Richards in the afternoon. 

14th President Young, Joseph Young, E. T. Benson & Brother Clements occupied the time to 
day. 

15th Sunday Many of the Lamanites were present. President Brigham Young Preached upon the 
subject of the Lamanites in an interesting manner. He told the Latter day Saints plain their duty 
towards them. An Indian Chief Called High forehead followed him & spoke in a vary interesting 
manner. He was followed by G. A. Smith & Aaron Johnson. 

In the afternoon the people were addressed by O. Pratt while the sacrament was administering & 
followed by W. Woodruff. 

At the close of the meeting President Snow nominated his two Councellors. Diminicus Carter 
was first Councellor. The people did not all vote. Two voted against him. 

Their is a strange spirit in provo. Many do not pray & have not the spirit of God. In the 
Commencemet of the meeting it was very hard work to preach. The people seemed Cold & 
indifferent & it seemed as though they expected the Presidency & 12 to bring Oil enough in their 
lamps to fill all the lamps of 3,000 people & have light enough for them all without their 
bringing any themselves. 

J. V. Long reported all the sermons & doings so I did not report any thing. We had a good 
meeting. 

The President Preached strong doctrin. He told us our duty to the Lamanites & the Consequences 
that would follow if we did not do it. He warned us against neglecting that people, & neglecting 
prayer, & against our opposing any commandment, revelation, or doctrin that comes from God. 

O that we might be wise & listen to the things of God for we shall inherit the kingdom of God 


Page210 




with all its blessings if we do & sorrow morning & wo if we do not. 

At the close of the meeting we rode to Lake City & held a meeting. J. M. Grant Preached. Was 
followed by Brother Clements. I spent the night with Brother Clements. 12 mils. 

16th We rode to Lehi took breakfast rode to John Benbows took Dinner then rode to Salt Lake 
City & I spent the night at home. Distance to Provo & back 90 mils. 

17 to 21 I spent the time Haying & Harvesting. 22d Sunday I attended meeting at the Tabernacle. 
23 to 28 I spent the time Harvesting & hoeing. 

29th I Attended meeting at the Tabernacle. Brother Kimball & Phelps preached in the morning & 

0 Pratt & B Young in the afternoon. 

On the 24 & 25 of July I attended the Polosophical society in the social Hall & Herd till midnight 
the most thrilling soul stiring speeches, essays, Addresses, songs, music &c &c that I ever herd. It 
was truly interesting to enjoy such a feast of the production of the strongest talent in the world. 
We also was addressed on Saturday evening at the Universal Scientific Society by [ ] On the 

subject of Phrenology followed by O. Pratt & W Woodruff. 

} I received a letter from Wm Smoot at Los vegus. 

30 & 3 1 I spent the time watering & Hoeing Com. 

August 

Aug 1st to 4th I spent the time building my Adobie grainery. Seth M Blair Arived home from his 
mission in Texas. He had done a good work & brought his shieves with him. 

Sunday 5 I was quite sick the latter part of the night & through the day. I was not able to attend 
meeting. S M Blair Preached in the morning followed by President Young in the Afternoon 
Lorenzo Young & others. 

1 attended the prayer Circle in the evening. Several missionaries were chosen to go to texas & 
some Jennan Swiss & Norwegen Elders to go to those of their nation in the states. 

In conversing upon various principles President Young thought none would inherit this Earth 
when it became celestial & translated into the presence of God but those who would be Crowned 
as Gods & able to endure the fulness of the Presence of God ex[cept?] they might be permitted to 
take with them some servants for whom they would be held responsible. All others would have 
to inherit another kingdom even that kingdom agreeing with the law which they had kept. Yet He 
thought they would eventually have the privilege of proveing themselves worthy & advanceing to 
a Celestial kingdom but it would be a slow progress. 

On Saturday evening Aug 4th The Universal Scientific ^ society met in the Music Hall And herd 


Page21 1 




an Address deliverd by Professor Orson Pratt. He there made known the Law governing the 
Planetary rotation which was the first time that Law was ever made known to the inhabitants of 
the Earth in this age of the world & we have no account of its ever being revealed to man before. 
It is the Law which Asstronomers have diligently sought to find out for many centauries. 

6 to 1 1 I spent the week laying up my Adobie House. I Attended the Universal Scientific Society 
at the Social Hall. Brother Mitchel Addressed the Assembly & was followed by David Cantlind. 
Subject Utah as she was, is & is to be. It was an excellent Address. :j I wrote a letter to Crandle 
Dunn. 

12 Sunday I attended meeting at the Tabernacle & prayer meeting in the evening. O Pratt Address 
us Saturday evening upon the subject of the organization of the worlds. 

13 to 181 spent the week laying up my house. 

19th Sunday O Pratt preached during the forenoon upon the subject of the origin & organization 
of our planetary system. P P Pratt arived last evening the 18th & attended meeting to day & made 
some remarks. I attended the prayer circle in the evening. 

2021 1 spent the time building. 

22 * Mr Charles H Oliphant put in 1 1 1 peach buds into my young peach Orchard this day & a 
few Apricotts into plum stocks. He put in the /most/ choist variety that He Could find in the 
valley. 

The following were some of the kinds put in: 

Brighams Favorite 

Woodruffs Mountain Swed 

Woodruff Prolific Carringtons white 

Spragues Yellow 

Cannons Early 

Grants Vandyhe 

Grants Early red Rare ripe 

BY Exelcier 

BY Neplus Ultra 

J Youngs Pride of the valley Utah 
22 to 25 I spent the time sheeting & shingling my House. 

26 Sunday P P Pratt preached in the Tabernacle upon the Gospel. I attended the prayer circle. 
JMB was set apart to his mission at Washington. He had a good blessing. 

27 ^ I wrote 3 letters to Thompson Woodruff & Brother C Dunn & one to I F Carter. I went to the 
salt lake & shovelld up a waggon load of salt. 12 mils there. 24 mils. 


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28 I spent this day & night wattering com potatoes & buck wheat. I was vary weary & sore. 

29 I left my watering field at sun rise went home took breakfast & spent most of the day abed. I 
put in 19 buds into peach trees. 

30th & 3 1st I spent the time at home. 


September 

Sept 1st I spent the day at home And attended the Universal scientific society at night. I 
addressed the people for a short time & was followed by P P Pratt who spoke much to our 
edifycation. 

2d Sunday Joseph Young spoke to the people in the forenoon W Woodruff in the Afternoon. 
Was followed by Erastus Snow. 

3d I rode with my family to willow Creek & camped. 

4th I rode to Lehi Dined with Brother Wadsworth then rode through Battle Creek Spanish fork 
settlement & within 5 miles of Provo river camped for the night. 

5 I rode to the mouth of the provo & camped for the day. My object in Coming to this place of 
fishing was to get some fish & take my family out to a ride. 

6 7 & 8 I spent the time upon this fishing ground but the wind being in the north was against us 
as it drove the fish away from the mouth of the provo which was their fishing ground. The 
fishermen drew their net every day but ownly caught about what they wanted to eat daily. I 
caught some 15 fine trout with a hook. Some of them 3 or 4 lb weight. The Fishennen put me up 
a barrel of succors & I started for home Saturday morning & drove to Bishop Walkers & spent 
the night. 

9th I drove home to the city of the Great Salt Lake & spent the night. <-> Whole distance to the 
mouth of provo & back 80 miles. [] The Eastern mail had come in & brought me one letter From 
J F Carter & some mormons. 

10th I spent the day at home. Looked over Dr J M. Bemhisel goods & sent to his family all that 
He ordered me. 

1 1th I spent the day at home. I attended a Committee at Bishop Hunters in the evening. We were 
a committee for the pomological Society. 

121 spent a part of the day in my peach orchard which Is loaded with the finest of peaches ready 
to break under its load. 

*131 spent a part of the day at home & In the evening we met at the Social Hall in the capacity 
of a pomological society. We had a full house. The subject of raising fruit was warmly discussed 


Page213 




& the formation of a Horticultural society was reccommended & a committee was appointed to 
draft a Constitution & by laws for said society. 

14 & 15 1 spent the time at home. 

16th Sunday I attended meeting at the bowery & prayer meeting in the evening with the Council. 
17th I spent the time at home. 

1 8th I spent the day labouring at home & met at 7 ocloek in the evening at the Library room the 
Committee to draft the Constitution & by laws for the Horterculteral society. The Committee 
present were W. Woodruff President & J. C. Little Wm. Staines E Hunter S W Richards O. H 
Oliphant L D Young vice Presidents. We formed a Constitution & by laws which were 
unanimously adopted. 

19 I spent the day labouring. 

20th We met at the social Hall for a public meeting of the Horticulteral society. Our Constitution 
& by laws were red & adopted & a sample of Fruit from the best orchards in the City was 
exhibited & then distributed to the Assembly. Then adjourned till the 27th. 

Sept 21, 22 I spent the time labouring. On the 22d I attended the Universal scientific society in 
the evening. 

23d Sunday I was quite unwell & not able to attend meeting. Elder G. A. Smith preached a vary 
interesting discourse upon the History of the rise & progress of Mahomitanism & was followed 
by P. P. Pratt both published in the Deseret News of Oct 10th 1855. 

24 25 & 26 I spent the time labouring with my hands. 

27th The Horturculteral Society again met at the social Hall. Speeches were made. About three 
bushels of choise peaches were distributed to the assembly. About 20 new signers obtained to the 
society. 

28, 29 I spent the time labouring. 

30th Sunday I attended meeting at the bowery & prayer meeting in the evening. 

October 

Oct 1, 2, 3, 4, & 5 I spent the week gathering potatoes & Other Crops. 

^ Oct 6th 1855 Saturday A General Conference of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day 
Saints met at the bowery at 10 ocloek this morning which Held three days. Ended monday night 
Oct 8th. There were present during this Conference all the First Presidency & P. P. Pratt O. Pratt 
W. Woodruff G A. Smith E. T. Benson, L Snow & Erastus Snow of the Quorum of the Twelve 
Apostles & the other Authorities of the Church & about ten thousand of the Saints. All the 


Page214 




procedings of this Conference is Published in the Deseret News of October 10th 1855 so I deem 
it unnecessary to publish it in this Journal. 


At this Conference E. T. Benson & Lorenzo Snow were appointed missions to England & P P 
Pratt O. Pratt & W Woodruff of the Twelve were appointed Home missions with many others in 
Utah Territory. 

9th 10, 1 1, & 12, 13 This week was spent getting up Com & potatoes. I attended the Universal 
Scientific society meeting on Saturday Evening & herd a lecture Deliverd by P. P. Pratt On the 
Art of plenty followed by President Young. 

14th Sunday I attended meeting at the bowery & herd addresses from Wm. Pitt Br [....] & Erastus 
Snow. I attended prayer meeting at a Circle & herd President Young Prophesy that the Lamanites 
would not Conquer \ I 1 their Enemies nor get much Advantage over them in ther battles but they 
would continue to be destroyed & distressed untill they sought unto the Lord & his servants for 
assistance & Embraced the Gospel & became a righteous people. Then they will begin to prosper 
& not before. 

Oct 15th Monday night P. P. Pratt W. Woodruff G. A. Smith & Erastus Snow of the Twelve & 
others met at the House of P. P. Pratts to organize the Territory of Utah into missionary districts 
& appoints missionaries to the various fields of Labour. The following is the division of the 
Territory in 6 districts: Utah Co 1; Juab Sanpete, & Millard Counties [..] 2d, Iron & Washington 
Co 3, Davis Co 4, Webber Co 5, Salt Lake & Tooele Co. the 6th District & Missionaries 
appointed to Each district. All the procedings are published in the Deseret News of Oct 17th vol 
5 No 32. 

16th I went to President Youngs mill & got 30 bushels of [whea?]t ground. 

17 I boiled up some 10 bushels of beets & made about 9 gallons of good molasses. 

18th I spent the day at home. I paid Joseph Horn my 14 ward school House tax $60.80 & got his 
receipt for the same. The Indians are beginning to again be Hostile. They have shot at the Elk 
mountain mission. 3 of the brethren viz Wiseman Hunt Wm. Behunin & Edward Ed[wards?] & 
broke up the mission. Also are makeing disturbance at Green river mission. 

19th In Company with Elder T. Kington I rode to Fannington Davis County to attend a quarterly 
Conference to commence on the 20th inst. I spent the night at Brother Steeds. Distance of the day 
16 mils. 

After retireing to bed I prayed to the Lord to show me what we should teach the People and I 
received for answer Let my servants obtain the Holy Ghost & keep my spirit with them & that 
will instruct them what to teach the people continually & instruct the people to keep my spirit 
with them & they will be enabled to understand the word of the Lord when it is taught them. 

Oct 20 Saturday morning at 10 oclock the people assembled & there were present of the Twelve 


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P P Pratt O Pratt & W. Woodruff Also L. D. Young Gilbert Clements T D Brown & [-] Cook of 
the missionaries. The Quarterly Conference was opened by Prayer by O. Pratt. After Singing P. 

P. Pratt Addressed the People for 2 1/2 hours. 

Evry missionary present had a cold sore throat & was hoarse. It had come on during the last 24 
hours. It was a complaint that was quite universal among men women & children. Many 
hundreds were Attacked in the same way. There was no change in the weather, nor any thing in 
the outward appearance of the Elements to cause it. 

Elder Pratt was quite unwell. He said He did not intend to Preach this forenoon but He had got to 
Preach or go to bed. He spoke in a vary interesting manner for 2 1/2 hours upon the subject of the 
birth Life Death & resurrection of Jesus Christ. He took for his text the 10 & 1 1 verses of the 2d 
chapter of St Luke "And the Angel said unto them fear not for behold I bring you good tidings of 
great Joy which shall be unto all people. For unto you is bom this day in the city of David A 
Saviour which is Christ the Lord." This is the Saviour bom in Bethlehem of Judea. 

He said one cause of his /why 1/ [am] taking this tex was /is/ that a school teacher in Great salt 
Lake City asked her whole school if they would tell her whare Jesus was bom & not one of them 
could tell her. It is true they were mostly small schollars but there was one almost a man grown 
& he could not tell. 

I think there is a neglect among this people in not teaching their children as they should do the 
Old & New testament the History of the Prophets & Jesus & the Apostles And I think it time to 
teach the people the simple things of the word of God. And this message of Good News is as 
necessary to this assembly as it was to the people of Judah. We and our children should read the 
Bible more than we do at least Our children should read it untill they should learn where Jesus 
Christ was bom & understand his History. 

I wish to come down to the Capacity of Children & if they can understand me their Parents can. 
Perhaps almost evry child in these vallies at 8 years old know it is necessary to be baptized at that 
age because they have been taught it by their parents or others but many of them do not know 
what they are baptized for. But was it not for the name of Jesus Christ all our ordinances & 
administrations would be in vain & of no Effect. For if we did not Baptize in the name of Jesus 
Christ our sins would not be remitted & if we did not lay on hands in his name for the Holy 
Ghost or the Healing of the sick the Candidate would not receive the Holy Ghost nor the sick be 
Healed. For their is no other name given under Heaven whereby men can be saved. We have no 
promise of obtaining any blessing from God except through & in his name. Then it is vary 
important that we & our children should understand his life & History. Some do not know 
whether He was bom in Asia or America. 

Jesus Christ told his deciples that [He?] had other sheep which were not of this fold (those in 
Jerrusalem). He came to this Continant descended from Heaven & strod in the midst of a 
Congregation of Saints that were assembld to worship God but He was not bom here but He 
preached the gospel here after his death, and holding a three days meeting in Hell & preaching 


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the gospel to the spirits in prison while his body lay in the tomb then rising from the tomb & 
asscending into heaven. Then He descended to this Continant in his immortalin his immortal 
body & not ownly preached the Gospel here among the Nephites but Chose twelve Apostles Here 
& taught many plain simple, Great & glorious things the whole History of which you can read in 
the Book of Mormon. He told the people He was Jesus Christ who was bom in Jerrusalem & 
there crusilied for the sins of the world. 

He told them He had other sheep yet which were not of this Fold neither at Jerrusalem but were 
the lost sheep of the House of Israel. He must also go & visit them & when we get the record of 
the Ten lost tribes of Israel we shall get an account of his visit among them. 

I want to Preach Jesus Christ to you this day [in] Plainness & simplicity for untill you receive the 
fulness of the gospel of Christ you are not a proper candidate either for a fulness of Celestial 
Glory or to become sons of Perdition. For those who have not received a fulness of the Gospel & 
the Holy Ghost will not always remain in hell but be redeemed in the own due time of the Lord & 
receive some kind of a glory like the stars in comparison to the son but whare God & Christ & 
celestial Saints dwell they cannot come worlds without End. 

But those who have partaken of the fulness of the Gospel & the Holy Ghost & they deny the Lord 
& shed innocent Blood or give there consent thereto they commit the unpardonable sin & there is 
no forgiveness in this world nor in the world to Come, And I wish you all to understand that if 
you are Baptized & receive the Holy Ghost & your Endowments & are sealed up unto Eternal life 
against all manner of sins & blasphemies except against the sin of the Holy Ghost that mercy 
cannot rob Justice that after all this if you Commit any sin you will have to answer for it & pay 
for it in this life & if the sin is great Enough you will have to be destroyed in the Flesh & if 
necessary be deliverd over to the buffitings of Satan untill the day of redemption & if your sins 
are not unto death you may then Come forth & be exhalted to glory Immortality & Eternal life. 
But it is a great deal better not to sin at all. 

I want all the Children that are 8 years old & all young persons & all old people & strangers that 
have not been baptized to come foreward & be baptized & also those who have commit sins for 
which they should be baptized for that they may begin to be Candidats either for the fulness of 
Celestial Glory or sons of perdition. Many other interesting remarks were made by the speaker 
but no one reporting they were not taken. 

At 3 oclock PM. Elder Gilbert Clements addressed the assembly. He took for his text "Examine 
yourselves whether ye be in the faith or no and said many may think they possess things which 
they do not possess & this may be the case with regard to their faith. Do we feel as we once did? 

I think not. At least I can say that many are not as faithful as they once were. 

I look upon the saints as subject to a com[plete?] warfare. The question was asked anciently shall 
there be faith on earth when the Lord Comes? I know of No people on Earth that have to make 
greater exertion to keep from being worldly minded than this people. For we have been broaken 
up so many times & driven from place to place that we have had to labour night & day in order to 


Page2 1 7 




live or to obtain the necessaries of life. 


But in the midst of our labour do we remember our prayers? Do we pray three times a day? But 
says one I have to go to the Canyons to get wood & I have not time to stop to pray. But I can say I 
never knew a great man in the kingdom of God but what was a praying man. Daniel was a great 
Prophet & business man yet He always found time to pray 3 times a day & he even kept up this 
practice when He became prime minister of Babylon & presided over all the princes & business 
of that great kingdom. What a glorious example for this people. For let us have ever so much to 
do we should never neglect our prayers. When I see a saint eat & lie down & sleep without 
praying I think that man is in the road to ruin. 

There is sufficient before our eyes to cause us to pray. I do not think there ever was a greater 
miracle than this people Coming here & doing what they have done. How has this been 
accomplished? By the faith of the faithful of this people & the blessings of the Lord upon us. 

I have often wondered why so few out of the thousands who hear the testimony of the servants of 
God have received it & again why so few remain faithful to the end who do receive it. ft is 
because they have lost their faith if they ever had any. We should not ownly have faith but works 
& treasure up evry useful knowledge within our reach for 1 do not believe that the spirit of God 
will go out of his Course to teach men those things which they are to lazy to leam when they 
have the means within their reach. 1 know that this people Can learn more in 3 months than other 
people can in 12. 

He spoke of schools and the duty of parents to children. Said that the painter & artest presented 
their paintings & sculpture which were preserved as the choice monuments of art & greatness but 
mothers & teachers will make an impression upon the mind of youth which will last long after 
the painting is worn to threads & the marble Crumbles to dust. 

At 7 oclock in the evening the People again assembled at the school House & were addressed by 
Elder T. D Brown addressed the people. He said 1 am appointed a missionary but in another part 
of the vineyard. 1 felt a desire to come to this place, ft does not seem but a short time since 1 
began travelling & preaching. 1 have thought of the words of Brother Clements. Do we believe in 
God? 1 have thought much upon this subject. 1 have spent most of my time for the last two years 
among the Indians. 1 have seen much of the dealings of the Lord among that people & we have 
been blessed in administering unto them. 

1 have red of late the History of Joseph as published by O Pratt. The simple testimony in that 
work is Good & is calculated to do much good. The instance of his lameness & under the 
necessity of having a bone taken from his leg & the doctor wanted to bind him. He said no bind 
me not. I can endure what is necessary to be done. I do not wish my mother present as it will 
cause her pain to see me suffer & I wish to save her all the sorrow I can. This act showed his 
strong character in the days of his youth & his Effection for his mother. 

God has bestowed great blessings upon this People and I would Here ask how many there are in 


Page218 




this congregation that are 8 years old who have not been baptized & there are some parents who 
do not teach their children the necessity of it. Every family should have in their Library the bible 
Book of Mormon Doctrin & Covenants & the Life of Joseph, & we should learn to practice the 
preceps of our savior. We should love our Brethren feed the poor cloth the naked. Lor how can 
we Hate our Brother whom we have seen & love God whom we have not seen? Again if we have 
ought against our Brother we should go to him & be reconciled & not go to law & if we do 
wrong or injure the feelings of another unjustly we should ask forgiveness & make recincileation 
& when a person gets a thorough victory over themselves in thes matters they gain a far greater 
victory than they would in taking sebastipol. 

I listened with attention to the remarks of Brother Clements upon the subject of Prayer. I believe 
the Lord Hears prayer. We had a sample of this in Har[mony?]. The grasshopers had destroyed 
the crops in the settlements north of us & they began to approach our fields & began upon our 
grain. We called a meeting & made the matter a subject of prayer at night. We went out next 
morning & there was no live grasshoppers to be seen but the ground was coverd with dead ones. 

I have spoken of my mission among the Lamanites. The question has been asked will the 
Lamanites work? I will say that the Lamanites work hard whare I have been. Some of them have 
worked for me & they would do more hard labour in a day than I Could. While making our 
picket fort two of the Indians would cut 100 cedar Pickets in a day. I have known old Indians [to] 
plant Acres of land & dig up the ground with a paddle, & when they saw us plough the ground 
they rejoiced much to see how much faster we could turn over the ground with an Iron plough 
than they could with a woodden paddle. 

Brother Parley Pratt said I was ingaged in the best work I could be ingaged in. I feel that we are 
bringing that people to a knowledge of the things of God. 

When I have traveled among them they have treated me vary kind. I called upon a Chief one day 
& I was hungry. His squaw went to work & dryed some wheat heads by the fire rubed out the 
wheat in her hands put it onto a smooth stone & took another smooth round stone & ground it 
fine & made me a cake of it & baked it by the fire. While she was doing this her daughter made 
me some good wine out of some buries she had preserved. So I had bread & wine for my dinner, 
all manufactured in a few moments. They rejoiced at our visit with them & many of them have 
been baptized & in some instances try to imitate our practices. In one instance a company of 
three came to visit us all highly painted up & dressed in the best they had. When they came to us 
we told them the mormons did not paint. They went to the creek & washed it all off. We feel that 
much good is begining to be done among that People. 

Sunday Oct 21 Meeting opened by singing & Prayer By T D. Brown at 10 oclock. Brother 
Lorenzo D Young addressed the People in the forenoon. He spoke upon the subject of setting up 
the kingdom of God On the Earth in our day & the blessings which God will give us & refered to 
the coming of Christ in the flesh to the Jews who were looking for a Great king to come to sit 
upon the throne of David. 


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Spake of the crusifixion of Christ. His blood was shed & that Nation had to be chastized in 
consequence of it & they deserved it for they were worthy. We know the Blood of Christ was 
shed for the redemption of mankind. 

He spoke of the Endowments in the temple. 

Said the people always were afraid of the truth & always prejudiced against the profits of God 
but that did not stop the spread of the work of God. 

Some say Shall we stay here long? I do not know but I can say that we shall stay as long as we 
wish to. If all the Nations of the Earth were to Come against us they could not drive us away if 
we do our duty before the Lord & put our trust in him & do unto all men as we would wish to be 
done by in all things & if all will do this we shall not have much trouble in the kingdom of God. 

Some think that we have not as much faith as we used to have. I cannot believe this. I believe we 
are advanceing in the kingdom of God. 

Some are much tryed because all are not healed that they lay hands upon but I do not feel so. I 
had a Case during Conference concerning the case of Sister Baris. She was sick & I laid Hands 
upon her & blessed her with life & helth & went to meeting. In an hour I had word that she was 
dead. It did not try me. The Lord saw fit to take her & all is right. 

There is many duties devolving upon us & one of these duties are to pay our debts. If I owe a 
man & He comes to me & says you owe me so much & I need it in my family I will pay that man 
to the full extent of my power. I will divide the last loaf with him. I consider this one of our 
duties & I will say I never knew a man [to] get rich by taking great Interest neither do I ever 
expet to. 

He requested the Brethren to remember the Twelve & administer in temporal thing while they 
Administered in spiritual things. 

Sunday PM. Elder O. Pratt addressed the Assembly. He arose & said I should have been pleased 
to have heard from Brother Woodruff & others [if I] had not been Called upon to speak. 

I dont know when I have been more Edifyed than in the discourses I have heard at this 
Conference esspecially the discours of Brother Parley yesterday morning it was so plain & simple 
I tried to enter into the feelings of the speaker. I tryed to bring myself to this scene & fancied to 
myself how I would feel in Hearing the message of Glad tidings that a savior was bom & also in 
being associated with him in life then the sorrow of his being taken away & crucified then the 
great Joy in his resurrection & his teachings while in his Immortal body. 

But when I think of the greater things which are to take place in our day I do not regret that I did 
not live in that day for there are greater things to come forth than were manifest in that day. For 
that kingdom of God of which all the prophets have spoken since the world began has now come 


Page220 




forth as a preparation for the second coming of Christ. Not coming to be born in a manger but He 
will come From Heaven Clothed with all that great Glory & power of which the prophets have 
spoken. 

Now are we preparing for this great Event? Now if a stranger was to come to us they would not 
suppose that we were preparing for this great Event but was merely Cultivating the Earth to raise 
potatoes com wheat &c. I do not believe for a moment that is the case. For I do believe that this 
people are preparing for the Coming of Christ. 

What will take place at that time? I have red in the book of monnon what that book says will take 
plase. We can read the great things that are spoken in that Book. (He read some unto the people.) 

I will take it to myself. I have not been as diligent in reading that Book as I should have been. I 
have red many other books of late but not so much in the book of Monnon as fonnerly. I have 
seen the time that I could read nearly whole Book in the book of Mormon without looking upon 
the book. I am trying to get all the sayings in the Books in my own mind that are spoken 
concerning the signs of the times in the day in which we live for I am well aware that it will 
overtake many as a thief in the night in the midst of the saints. 

Now let us look at the tokens or signs of the times that are passing before us as many as present 
themselves to our minds. I will read a Revelation given to P P Pratt & others. "Jesus Christ will 
not come in the form of a woman nor like a man walking upon the face of the Earth. But look 
forth for the Heaven to be shaken & the mountains to be laid low &c. 

When shall thes things be? When the Angel shall sound his trumpet two events will take place at 
the same time. Also the Lord said the Lamanites Shall Blossom as the rose in the wilderness. 
Now we know that this will not take place in a moment for we know it will take some time to 
prepare the Lamanites for this work. It will require a great miracle to bring that people to that 
State or it will take some great Changes to bring it about. This is but one of the Events that is to 
take place before the coming of Christ. 

I am glad to hear the account of the brethren who have gone among that people. I am satisfied 
that that people will not be prepared to receive the blessings of God untill they cultivate the Earth 
& when this [is] done we shall Have accomplished the great work but /not/ untill that time is 
done. Then sumthing will be done. Then we will be inspired to teach them & ther Children and 
all men will be blessed who labour faithfully to bring them to this State of things. 

Joseph Shall flourish in the wilderness. The Lamanites shall blossom as the rose. We shall hear 
of Israel and of their prophets & Revelations in other parts of the Earth. I do not say that they will 
have the priesthood from this people nor I do not say they will not for there are other men who 
hold the \ keys of the kingdom of God on the earth. The Revelator & the three Nephits hold the 
keys of the kingdom of God & they will administer unto the children of men. Zion shall flourish 
upon the Hills & rejoice excedingly upon the mountains. 


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When this revelations was given there was no gathering at all. Joseph had got to kirtland. I have 
no idea that the prophet himself knew at that time whare this would be. We are now here in the 
mountains in fulfillment of that Prophesy and Revelation. 

Also in the 40th Chapter of Isaiah comforting words were spoken Concerning the Jews & 
Jerrusalem. They were to go to Jerrusalem for they had received double reward for all their sins. 
Now Comfort them. Did all thes things take place in the wilderness in Zion & in Jerrusalem in 
the days of the /Birth of the/ Savior? No they did not. Then that same John Had yet to do a great 
work in the Earth in the last days. Who first delivered the priesthood to Joseph Smith the prophet 
& founder of the church of Christ in this dispensation? It was this same John the Baptist. So he 
has fullfilled a part of his last day mission. 

O Zion get the up into the High mountains that bringest good tidings. We say that this was not 
done at its first organization. Why shall Zion get up into the High mountains? Why to Judge the 
Nations of the Earth. This people will know righteous Judgment. This people will be protected & 
shall Judge the people of the Earth. It is said God will pour out knowledge & power upon Zion. 

These [are] some of the things that will take place before the Coming of Christ. Now that we may 
know that this is the case see what the Lord says. Behold the Lord will come. He will gather his 
people & carry them in his arms. We have come up Here in these mountains. Well now have we 
flourished? Yes we have. We have flourished. Yet not as much as we shall. 

The Lord has said that we shall be the ri[ghteous?] of all people yet we are cautioned to beware 
of pride lest we become like the Nephites of old & some prophets have said that we should be 
chastized that the church wandered in the wilderness were faint & ready to fall down. This 
people from the Commencement have passed through oppression & difficulty. We that have not 
been in the church from an Early day & do not know the History of it can learn it by reading the 
News published in Salt Lake City and we can Just as well read the future History & events of this 
church by reading the prophets that have spoken concerning us. 

Shall we be in these mountains when Christ Comes? No at least head quarters will not be here. It 
will have to be on more ground. It will be in Jackson Co Mo. We may leave some Millions here 
but the Head quarters will be on More ground. 

Where shall we go? To the New Jerrusalem whare there will be built a great Capitol & Temple & 
we have got to build it. We & all our Children who are 8 years old know that when we have tryed 
to build a City the Lord has suffered it to be thrown down so that we may have experience. So 
that we shall know how to build up a New Jerrusalem. So that it will be exceptable unto the 
Lord. So that it will never be thrown down but be saved & taken into Heaven and preserved in 
Eternity & when that is done Jesus Christ will Come to visit it. Angels will come. That will be 
before the great day of Christs Coming & our dwellings will be overshadowed with a Cloud by 
day & a pill[ow?] of fire by night so we can see to get home without Stumbling. It will be the 
most improved plan of lighting up our City. 


Page222 




How will it be with the Lamanites? They will be the most important actors in the scene. We shall 
be secondly in that work. They will be so delightful & have such great knowledge of Architecture 
that they will be able to build up a New Jerrusalem. Then we shall go out throughout all the land 
to gather all the remnant of Jacob the Lamanits to come to the New Jerrusalem. What For? Why 
that they may be prepared to be Caught up to meet Christ in the clouds of Heaven. 

Then Christ will Come & stand in the midst of this people & they will be prepared to be caught 
up to meet Jesus Christ in the air. 

Then do I want to have lived in the day when Christ was born? No I do not. I would rath[er] live 
in this age. Now some of us may live in that day to see the seed of Israel gatherd. What Should 
you expect? We should expect to see Jesus come. But should we see him come without any sign? 
No. We should see Angels flying through the Heavens crying to all the Earth to prepare for the 
great day of Judgment is coming. 

What next should we see? There will be a sign that all people will see in all the Earth. As Israel 
made a Calf to worship so will there be five foolish virgins in the midst of all these signs, what 
shall we hear then? We shall hear another Trumpet sounded saying that the great day of God will 
Come upon Babylon that her bands are made strong so that No man can loose them. Then shall 
the curtain of Heaven be unfolded as a scroll so you can see it as you would gaze upon a map. 
Then you may know the time has come for the Saints of God to be Caught up into Heaven. That 
will be the great day for the Saints of God, but awful to the wicked. Then the Earth will reel to & 
fro like a drunken man. It will be the greatest Earthquake there ever has been On Earth. 

What next will take place? The graves of the Saints will be opened & they will come forth out of 
their graves clothed with glory Immortality & Eternal life & Enter into the cloud. Jesus Christ 
does not Come yet for there is other signs to take place. 

The Angels are to sound there Trumpets. O what must be the feelings of the people of all the 
Earth when they see the Heavens opened and the New Jerrusalem with all its inhabitants & the 
resurrected Saints all asscend into the Cloud while they are left upon the Earth. There feelings 
must be awful. 

There are many more things I might speak of but time will not pennit. There is many of the 
greatest things to take place in our day that has ever taken place on Earth. Are we prepared? I 
think not. I mourn over this people to see them so Stupid. I feel that there hearts are more set 
upon the things of their fanns than they are to prepare for the great day of the Lord. I pray the 
Lord to Bless us & give us his Holy spirit to prepare us for his kingdom & Comeing for Christ 
sake Amen. 

At 7 oclock in the evening the people again assembled & Filled the House and they were 
addressed by W. Woodruff who said Brethren & Sisters I am truly glad to meet with you in the 
capacity of a quarterly Conference & visit you as a missionary]. I am truly thankful that I have a 


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mission appointed me in connextion with Parley P & Orson Pratt two of the Twelve Apostles. 

For it is the first time since the organization of this church & Quorum that I have had this 
privilege of being associated together with these two men on a preaching mission ownly as we 
have met in a conference from time to time to transact business as a Quorum. 

I Called them Apostles. Is it true that they are apostles? It is either [true] or false. If it [is] false 
then your faith is vain your religion is vain you have not the kingdom of God with you nor the 
priesthood with the blessings have you? But if they are true Apostles then you have the kingdom 
of God with you the Priesthood & the keys of the kingdom of God & a presidency who hold the 
keys of the kingdom of God on the Earth & govern that kingdom for the benefit of the people. 
Then you are bound to listen to our words & teaching & to the teaching of the presidency of this 
Church. 

When I arived in this place I spent the night at Brother Steels. After I retired to rest I prayed to 
the Lord to show me what he wished me to teach to the people. The spirit of the Lord said to me 
teach the people to obtain the Holy spirit that they may receive teaching. Then let the 
missionaries keep the spirit of the Lord with them & that will Constantly dictate them what to 
teach. 

You have had a flood of light poured out upon you since the commencement of this Conference 
& we should listen to it. We should pay particular attention to our children & teach them good 
things & not pennit them to spend their time in reading novels & filling their minds with 
falshood & folly & things wharein there is no profit which will lead them asstray & make them 
fit subjects for destruction. When this is the case through the parents neglect they will have to 
answer for that sin. The Bible Book of Mormon & Doctrins & Covenants] should be read by our 
Children instead of French novels & negro songs for whatever seed is sown in the minds of our 
children the same kind of fruit will be produced. 

Oct 22 I returned home to salt Lake City. Distance 15 mils. 

23 to 27 I spent the week at home. A Quarterly conference was held at Provo on 27 & 28 by P P 
& O Pratt & others. 

Sunday 281 spent the day & night at home writing Conference minutes. 

29, 30 & 3 1 I spent the time at home labouring. 

November 

Nov 1st I rode in company with P P & O Pratt to South Webber. Did not arive till a late hour. It 
was vary dark. We got lost in the bluffs. Came near runing our carriage of a steep bluff. I went to 
the fort, got a pilot & lantern & we got in in safety. The people were assembled for a meeting. I 
spoke to them for a short time & spent the night with O Pratt at Br T Kingtons. Distance of the 
day 35 mils. 


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Nov 2d I rode to Ogden City. We met the people in the capacity of a quarterly Conference at 1 1 
oclock. Prayer By O Pratt. Brother Gibson preached to the people. W Woodruff reported. He had 
the spirit of the Lord & we were edifyed. 

P.M. 2 oclock. The people again met & was addressed By J. W. Johnson who spoke well & unto 
the Edifycation of the people. 

The people again met at 7 oclock in the evening & were addressed at length By P P Pratt who 
spoke by the spirit & power of God. We had a strong wind through the day & night. It was the 
strongest gale we have ever experienced in these vallies. Much damage was done. Many Adobie 
houses were blown down & un[roff?]ed fences laid prostrate. Carriages & waggons mashed to 
peaces. Hay & straw stacks blown over many chiminey blown of. 

3d Saturday morning It was gloomy this morning in consequence of the destruction by the wind. 
The people met at 12 oclock & were addressed by O Pratt in an interesting manner at length. The 
people again met at 7 oclock & was addressed by W. Woodruff. 

4th Sunday Wind has continued strong up to this time. The people met at 10 oclock & were 
addressed by Richard Cook & was folowed by P P Pratt. 

They again met at 2 oclok & were addressed at great length by P P Pratt. I came away & left him 
preaching & rode to South Webber & preached in the evening. 8 miles. 

I preached in great plainness to the people upon the subject of keeping the commandments of 
God. The spirit of the Lord rested upon me & we had a good meeting. I reported all the 
discourses of the Elders at the Ogden Conference & drew minutes of them off for the Editor to 
publish. 

5 I left Webber & rode with Brother Kington to Salt Lake City & spent the night at home. 35. 

6th 7 & 8 I spent the time at home gardning. 

9th In Company with H S. Eldridge Joseph Young & Henry Harriman I rode to Toele & spent the 
night at E T. at Brother Moss. Brother Thomas Grover stoped with me. Distance 25 mils. 

10th Saturday We rode to Tooele City to attend the Quarterly Conference. The people Assembled 
at 1 1 oclok. Meeting opened by singing & Prayer By Brother Lyon. Then W Woodruff said I am 
glad to meet you in the capacity of a quarterly Conference & I am glad to have the privilege of 
meeting with you as a missionary in connextion with so many other missionaries. 

We know it is necessary for you to have the spirit of God in order to be benefited by our teaching 

6 it is necessary for us to have the spirit of God as missionaries [in] order to teach to your 
edifycation. The Lord has a great deal to Communicate to this people for we have much to leam 
before we are prepared to dwell in the presence of God. So I wish you all to get the spirit of God 
that you may all be edifyed & that you may by faith draw forth those things from the Lord which 


Page225 




it is his will you should obtain through his servants who shall address you. I leave thes remarks 
with you & give way for Brother Lyon to address you. 

Brother John Lyon Addressed the people for about one hour. I reported his sermon as I did all 
others who spoke during the Conference. The Conference was held in the tabernacle or large 
school hous. 

The people again assembled at 2 oclock & were addressed /By Joseph Young/. Zerah Pulsipher 
offered up Prayer. Brother Joseph spoke quite lengthy & we were Edifyed by his teaching. He 
was blessed by the spirit of God. 

The people again assembled at 6 oclok. Prayer by Brother Harriman. Zerah Pulsipher addressed 
the people & we were all interested in his teachings. 

Henry Harriman followed & the two occupied the evening till 9 oclok. Then an appealed case of 
trial of a sister Came up before Bishop Roberry which lasted till midnight. Much Instruction was 
given by W. Woodruff & E. T. Benson upon principle. I spent the night at Brother Kelseys. 

1 1th Sunday The missionaries met at 8 oclok & passed [a] resolution Concerning other Quarterly 
Conferences in the District which are published in the Deseret News. At 10 oclok the Conference 
again opened. Prayer & singing. The people were addressed By H. S. Eldridge & followed by E. 
T. Benson who spoke at length to the Edifycation of the people. 

The People again assembled at 2 oclok & were addressed by W. Woodruff who took for a text 
the fore part of the Lords prayer "May thy kingdom Come & thy will be done on Earth as it is 
done in heaven. Was followed by Brother Pack who bore testimony to the truth. 

The people met again at 6 oclok & were addressed by Elder Lorenzo D. Young George 
Woodward Joseph Young & W Woodruff. The spirit of God rested upon us & we had a good 
time. 

12th We returned home to day. Distance 35 mils. 

13 to 161 spent the time at home hunting an ox & [hotel?] ering him & working on the high way. 

17th In company with Orson & Parley Pratt & wife I rode to the city Bountiful to Attend a 
Quarterly Conference. The People assembled at 1 1 oclock. Meeting opened by singing & Prayer 
by Henry Harriman. The people were addressed by H. S. Eldridge who Compared the [faillings?] 
& blessings of the Ancient Saints with the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. He spoke 
to the Edification of the people. He was followed by Zerah Pulsipher who also spoke to the 
Edifycation of the [people]. 

P.M. Meeting opened by Prayer by Elder Orson Pratt & the People were addressed by Henry 
Harriman & followed by Elder Orson Pratt who spoke at length in the power of God. 

The People again met [at] 6 oclok in the evening & were addressed By Gilbert Clements. The 


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spirit & power of God also rested upon him & all were much Edifyed in what He said. Bishop I. 
L. Haywood followed & bore testimony to the truth. 

18th Sunday The People assembled at 10 oclok. Meeting op[ened] by singing & Prayer By 
Joseph Young. The People were addressed by Elder P. P. Pratt at length who spoke much to the 
edification of the people. 

The People again assembled at 2 oclok. Prayer by Thomas Grover & the People were addressed 
by Joseph Young & followed by Erastus Snow & evry man during the Conference spoke in the 
demonstration of the Holy Ghost. 

The people were again assembled at 6 oclock & Prayer by Orson Pratt. W. Woodruff addressed 
the people & said that when I look upon the Mountains & vallies & hills & dales & both in the 
Heavens & on Earth I behold a great variety in all the works of God & in looking upon the 
portrait of the Presidency & Twelve I see no two men or things look alike & what Constitutes a 
part of the glory of God is the great variety of his works. So in the preaching of the Presidency & 
Twelve each man might preach upon a different subject & Handle it in a different manner yet all 
by the same spirit & will edify the people. So I feel incouraged to think that notwithstanding such 
a great flood of light & truth has been presented to this people since the commencement of the 
Conference that the Lord will still give me sumthing that may edify the people this evening. 

I would warn the people to give heed to the strong teachings & exertations which they have had 
presented to them during this conference. This people should give themselves to the studying of 
the revelations of God as contained in the Bible book of Mormon & Doctrin & Covenants. 

Some have thought they should follow the living Oracles & neglect the study of all other 
Revelations but this is not so. All men should follow & harken to the living Oracles of God but 
they should not neglect the study of the scriptures for God has commanded it and any man that 
will search the revelations of God thouroughly will be far better prepared to carry out the council 
of the living oracles at all times. 

Their is another subject that I wish to speak of & that is the principle of recording the dealings of 
God with us here on the Earth. While all other prophets & Apostles record the dealings of God 
with them why should not the Elders of this last dispensation? ft is true that the Prophet Joseph 
wrote the History of the Church in his day & that testimony is now gladening the harts of 
thousands while the testator is dead. So with the Presidency of the Church who are now leading 
us. They keep a History of the dealings of both God and man with them the History of which will 
be interesting to millions of future generations. 

But does this excuse the many thousands of Elders & High priest & Apostles who have travelled 
for many years & built up this Church & kingdom & had the gift of the Holy Ghost with them so 
they have had power to heal the sick & cast out devils open the eyes of the blind unstop the ears 
of the deaf cause the lame to leap as an heart & commanded the demon & they obey them & have 
had guardian Angels to preserve them from Danger & Death? I say shall the Elders be blessed 


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with these things & not Count them worth recording? Not even make the mark of a pen to leave 
the Account on record for their children & future generations to read? I say they should. I think 
the Lord requires this at our hands & it is a Rich & Holy legacy which is Justly due our posterity. 
And I do desire that the Elders of this Church would keep a history & Journal of their lives. 

I also wish that our young men would become acquainted with Phonography that we [may?] have 
One thousand reporters whare we have One now that they may report the teachings of the 
servants of God & the work of God in this generation. 

Many other remarks I made to the people concerning the gathering of Israel & other subjects & 
was followed by Elder Orson Pratt. The spirit & power of God rested [upon] us all during the 
conference. I laid on hands upon a sick woman with Brother Orson Pratt. 

19th In company with Orson Pratt I administered to 2 of Bishop Stokers Children who were sick 
with the mountain fever. We then returned to salt Lake city with Brother P P. Pratt. 10 mils. 

20 to 24th I spent most of the time this week in writing Conference minutes for the Editor of the 
news. I was quite lame with a swelling on my left leg in the form of a bite. 

25 Sunday I spent the day at home as I was lame & Could not go to meeting. 

26th I had my Hogs killed to day. I spent most of my time in writing. 

27 The Eastern mail got in last night. I got 10 Numbers of the Monnon. / :]■ I wrote 4 letters to 
Tooele./ The Mail Brought news of the fall of Sebastopol. The southern part of the city was taken 
by the Allies. The Russians blew up their magazenes sunk their ships & set fire to the city as they 
retreated. The first dispatch said that each side lost 30,000 men total 60,000. Other Accounts say 
90,000 in all. 

28 I spent the day in reading & writing. 

29th 2 ^ I spent the day at home untill 3 oclok PM. Then I attended a missionary party got up By 
the Presidency of the Church. They made a feast & invited all the missionaries in the place 
amounting to some 70 persons with their wives. They danced till 1 1 oclok. Took supper during 
the time at 7 oclock the spirit of the Lord was with them & they felt well. [ Took supper at 7 
oclock. The spirit of the Lord was with them & they felt well. ] They were addressed during the 
evening By President Grant & the Quorum of the Twelve. President Young was sick & President 
Kimball was unwell so neither of them could attend although they made the feast. 

I herd during the evening of the Death of Orson Spencer. Many Friends mourn his loss. He was a 
firm Piller in the Church & kingdom of God. 

30th I received $50 dollars to day from the secretary being $2 over my travelling feas. 

December 


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Dec 1 st I spent the day in closing up my business preparitory to leaving on Monday morning for 
the south. W. Hickman & company got in from the Hombolt to day. Brought in a prisioner with 
them. 

2d Sunday I attended meeting at the Tabernacle. Brother Hugh Finley Preached in the morning & 
Elder Amasa Lyman in the afternoon. Brother Finley gave an account of his travels in India 
Bombay & Hindustan & the customs of the people which was vary interesting. Brother Lyman 
spoke of heaven & peace in our hearts & families. I attended the prayer Circle in the evening. <1 
gave to the Presidency which debts I had against them. President Young> $197, <Brother 
Kimball> $160, <Richards paid> $200. <President Young would not take his but gave me 
[credit?] in tithing.> 

3d Monday I parted with my family & started for Philmore to attend the Legislator. I took 
passage with Brother Loren Farr. We were 4 in company L Farr, L. Snow J. C. Wright & W. 
Woodruff. We rode to Lehi in Utah valley. We spent the night with Alonzo Raymond. We had a 
meeting in the evening. I addressed the people. Was folowed by O Pratt & E T. Benson. We had 
a good meeting. P. P. Pratt was kicked by a mule & could not attend meeting. 

4th We rode to the Spanish fork settlement & spent the night at Brother James Pace. We held a 
meeting. J C Wright addressed the people. Was followed by E. T. Benson W Woodruff & 

Erastus Snow. We had a good meeting. 

/5 We rode to Nephi. Held a meeting. E Snow O Pratt E T Benson & W Woodruff Preached./ 

6th We rode to the severe & on to the round Prairie & all camped for the night together the 
Governor & members of the Legislators about 50 in number. 

7th Dec We rode to day to Filmore the capitol of the Territory & Brother Farr, Wright & myself 
took our board & lodgings with Brother Chandler Holebrook at $5 per week. Distance from G S 
L City 160 mile. 

8th I spent the day in visiting the Brethren & reading the Luminary. } I wrote one letter to Mrs 
Woodruff. We held a meeting in the evening. E. T. Benson & W. Woodruff Preached & had a 
good meeting. 

9th Sunday I attended meeting at the City Hall. P.P. Pratt preached to the people in the morning. 
He gave an account of his travels through this country in the dead of winter in deep snows to Iron 
co. before their was any settlement. He then took up the coming forth of the book of Mormon. He 
spoke of those prophesies which had been fulfilled since the book was printed & those which are 
to be fulfilled. He spoke of the blood which had been shed in this Church from the 
Commencement which was crying from the ground for vengance. Many good remarks were 
made. 

/I met in council with the Presidency & Twelve on the welfare of the Territory./ 


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10 The Legislative Assembly met in the State House & both Houses organized & adjourned till 
to morrow 1 oclock. I spent, the fore part of the evening in reading to Brother Kimball & the 
remainder in the meeting at the school house. Brother James Brown Preached & I followed him. I 
spoke of the progress of the kingdom of God & the necessity of prayer & the wickedness of the 
world. I was followed by Brother Ray. 

1 1th I spent the fore part of the day in writing & study. I met with the Council at 1 oclok. At 2 
oclok we met in Joint Session. The Governor appeared & deliverd his message. 1,000 copies was 
ordered to be printed. It was resolved that 100 copies of the minutes of each day should be 
printed for the benefit of the two Houses. 

The Secretary A. W. Babbit arose & insulted the Assembly to a great Degree by threatening them 
that their bills should not be paid if they printed that Number. He wished to dictate to the 
assembly what they should do which was out of his place. The Govornor arose & gave the 
Secretary a hard lashing with his Tongue & said he ought to be kicked out of the house as a poor 
miserable dog. Babbit followed & said he had as good a wright to occupy the Governor seat as 
the governor had & made use of much insulting language. The Assembly then resolved that the 
freedom of the House be withheld from the Secretary A. W. Babbit. The Assembly adjourned till 
tomorrow 10 oclok at their several Houses. The Secretary threatened to take all the money & 
return to the Salt Lake City & pay no more expenses for the Legislator. He was under the 
influence of liquor. 

121 met with the Council at 10 oclok. Standing committees were Appointed. I was Appointed 
Chairman of three Committies viz. On roads Bridges & Feries & On Library & on Revenue. We 
adjourned till to morrow 10 oclock. 

2 ^ I attended meeting in the evening at the school house. O. Pratt Preached one hour upon the 
gifts & graces the importance of our calling upon God by mighty Prayer & faith in order that we 
might rend the veil and obtain those blessings which the Ancients obtained. He made many 
interesting remarks. 

He was followed by Loren Farr who gave an exhortation to the people upon what Brother Pratt 
had said. Urged the people to give heed to the council of the servants of God. 

2 ^ I followed Brother Farr. The following is a synopsis of the remarks which I made: Brethren & 
sisters I Count it a privilege to Join my Brethren in bearing my testimony of the things of God. I 
have a feelings of Solemnity resting upon my mind concerning our duties as a people. This 
feelings is increasing upon me daily. I can bear testimony that what brother Pratt has said is true. 

The Lord has a meaning in sending the Apostles & Elders into the vineyard in this Territory to 
preach to the Saints. And I know as God lives that the same spirit that rested upon the Ancient 
Prophets before some great Event has rested upon the Apostles & Elders upon this mission. The 
spirit of God has rested upon them to prophesy & teach great things in the name of the Lord. I 


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feel that as Prophets, Apostles & Elders we have no time to sleep, slumber, & rest upon our 
[lees?] & feel that we have nothing to do but eat, Drink, dance & be merry for I know there is a 
mighty responsibility resting upon us as a people & we have no time to loose or throw away if we 
do our duty to God, to the Gentile Nations, to the whole House of Israel, to Zion & Jerrusalem, & 
are prepared ourselves for the great & mighty Events which are rushing upon us with the rapidity 
of lightning. 

Look at the House of David the tribe of Judah alone. See the rivers of Blood which have run 
from their veins shed by the hands of the gentiles for the Last 1800 years by the hand of Evry 
gentile Nation under heaven. Their rivers of Blood have quenched the flames of their burning 
Temples synagogues & Cities. Their treanches & Cities have been filled with their mangled 
bodies left unburied untill the stench has asscended up towards heaven. 

From generation to generation evry Gentile Nation have demanded tribute taxation of them 
beyond Endurance & persecuted them unto death. The old Jewish Rabbies & Priest have turned 
their faces towards Gerrusalem for 1800 years & cryed unto God in great Sorrow & affliction. 

The God of Abraham has declared that the day should Come when their afflictions should scease 
& they should be redeemed deliverd from the Gentile yoke return to Jerrusalem rebuild 
Jerrusalem & their Temple & have great blessings again given them by the hand of the God of 
their Fathers. But for all these blessings He would be inquired of by the House of Israel to do it 
for them. 

The dawning of that day has come. The fulness of the Gentiles is fast coming in. The time has 
come for them to begin to go home to Jerrusalem but who is to ask for this blessing at the hand 
of God? Is it required at the hand of the Jews alone? Their is a veil still over them. The kingdom 
of God is taken from them. The priesthood with its keys & power is not within their reach by 
which they can rend the veil of Eternity in order to obtain thes blessings at the hand of the God of 
ther fathers. They have not a partical of faith in the name or blood of the Son of God but they are 
doomed to go home & build their city in unbelief. 

Then at whose hands does the God of heaven require these things? It is at your hands O ye Latter 
Day Saints. You are of the house of Israel linage of Joseph through the tribe of Ephraim. Your 
[fathers?] have been mixed with the Gentiles & God has Called you out & given unto you the 
kingdom with all its powers & Blessings. He has given you the Holy Priesthood & taken the veil 
from off your eyes & you are the ownly people under Heaven who now hold these blessings & 
know & see the things of God in the true light. Hence the Lord requires this people to call upon 
God day & night for the redemption of this branch of the House of Israel that his promises may 
be fulfilled Concerning them. Inasmuch as we cannot do any thing for the Jews but give them our 
prayers we should not with hold that blessing from them. 

Again let us turn out thoughts to the Lamanites who are of the linage of Joseph who surround us 
in these mountains & vallies who are also cursed & cast down below the brute creation. There is 
also a thick dark veil still hanging over them. The God of Joseph has said they should be 


Page23 1 




redeemed & become a white & Delightsome people. Here the Lord requires sumthing els at our 
hands besides praying. We have manual labour & work to do. We have them to redeem. Nobody 
els will attempt it. Our duties are great towards that people. 

We have carried the Gospel to the Gentiles Nations & they have rejected it & our own Nation has 
shed the best blood that rolls in the veins of men. They have slain the prophets & saints & driven 
the whole Church & kingdom of God into these mountains in the midst of the Lamanites. Here 
the ark of God rests. Shall we cover it up & let it rest idle? I say no. The Lord requires the 
salvation of this branch of the house of Israel at our hands. As Prophets, Apostles, Elders & 

Saints of God we have no time to loose or sleep upon our oars or wait for somebody els to 
perfonn the work. We have it to do & the time has Come. 

I know the day is at our door when the worship of that people will be exceptable at the hands of 
God. They will be visited by the Holy messengers of God who will be coworkers with us. Then 
let us Call upon God earnestly in their behalf & do our duty towards them & they will soon stand 
in Holy places & recieve the ordinances of the Holy Priesthood & appreciate them & do a great 
work which will be excepted of the Lord. 

Thes things are resting upon my mind with great wait day & night. If we as a people have fallen 
asleep it is time we awoke to our duty or we shall come under Condemnation as a people who 
bear the Priesthood. I feel to give Brother Orson Pratt my heart & hand in Joining him in calling 
upon God that we may rend the veil that we may obtain greater Blessings from God. We must 
pray earnestly in order to obtain the Holy spirit. Many other remarks were made which are not 
here written. 

> I wrote a letter this morning to Mrs Woodruff & to my son Wilford & Daughter Phebe which I 
sent by Mr Babbit who started for the salt Lake City. He felt better this morning & did not take 
away the funds belonging to the Legislature as he threatened he would. 

13th I met with the Legislative Counsel. We adjourned untill monday to give the committies time 
to bring in business & the carpenters time to finish the room. 

14th I spent the day reading & writing. I attended the meeting during the evening. The meeting 
was addressed by Phineas Young who spoke of the Lamanites. Said He had distributed the Books 
of mormon to the various Indians Chiefs from the Cherekees to Florida. He gave [R?]oss the 
Cherikee Chief one. He made many remarks upon that subject. He made one Error in saying that 
the Indians would not imbrace the work of God or be gathered by the Gospel untill they had gone 
through the Gentiles & trodden them down as the Book of mormon declairs. But the book of 
Mormon declairs that they shall be gathered. 

He was followed by Lorenzo Snow & Samuel Richards. Both spoke much to the Edification of 
the People. 

15 th } I wrote 7 letters to my family to Mrs Woodruff to Phebe, Susan, Bulah, Moroni Emma & 


Page232 




Sarah which I sent By mail. I spent the afternoon on a committy on Education. 

16th Sunday [] The mail came in to day & brought me a letter from Mrs Woodruff. P. P. Pratt 
Preached to the People in the forenoon upon the practical duties of life but I was at home writing. 

President Young Preached in the afternoon & I reported his sennon. The following is a synopsis 
of the same: 

President Youngs text was Arise & shine O Zion for /thy light is come &/ the glory of the Lord is 
risen upon thee. He said I have always felt since I have been called to preach to speak of the 
practical things of evry day life instead of some great misterry a long way ahead in Eternity 
which the people do not know nor never will as the thing tought does not exhist. 

I felt in the begining of my being Called to the ministry that I had no right to preach except I was 
filled with the spirit of Revelation & prophesy as the Ancients & I feel the same to day. In order 
to be qualified to preach we should be filled with Revelation. I do not consider that any man is 
qualified to preach the Gospel & the sayings of the prophets unless he is filled with the spirits of 
the prophets. We are Commanded to arise & shine. But for us to sit down & say that we believe 
in this work we believe that, Joseph was a Prophet, and still not carry out the work which we are 
commanded to do, not to build up or beautify Zion we shall find that we shall miss of our aim. 
We shall not enter into the Celestial kingdom. We shall not enter through the gates. We must 
show to the Lord that we are willing to fulfill What he requires of us and this we shall not do 
unless we are willing to arise & shine. But how are we to [do] it? We have got to build up Zion, 
and we have got to make Zion the most holy & polished, Refined & beautiful place upon the face 
of the whole Earth. So we may expect to see Zion in all that beauty majesty & glory which God 
has spoken of. 

But the people do not understand the things of God. I will prophesy that unless this people will 
rise up & build up Zion as God has commanded them they will be removed out of their place & 
another people will be raised in their stead who will perform the work & this I say in the name of 
God. 

I also say in the name of the Lord that the desendants of Ephraim who are among the Gentiles are 
the first born and they are the first ones to receive the fulness of the gospel in this dispensation. 
They are the first to be gathered together and this work was not to be given to any other in the 
begining of this kingdom this has been done. The Ephraimires are before me here today. 

Now if I was to ask you if you are willing to do as you are told you would say yes. But let me tell 
you ther is not one of you that are willing to do as you are told. I have given the people Council 
for years past how to build their forts, walls, Cities Houses, & how to begin to beautify & adorn 
Zion. But have the people done as I have told them in these things? No. You may say these are of 
miner Consequences. But let me tel you that if you are not willing to do the small things that is 
necessary /on earth/ then you are not willing to do as you are told in heaven, & you will loose 
your glory and exhaltation. 


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Now do you not remember that I told you years ago to go to & build up a beautiful city in this 
place? But there has been nothing done towards it. We have many that have been in the Church 
for quite a number of years & yet we have not a Builder or Architect that knows enough to build 
the meanest house of any kind not even a kitchen in the New Jerrusalem. Then how can we build 
up the New Jerrusalem? I have told the people all the day long to be prepared to build up this 
city. And I will say that if we could take all the knowledge that exhists among evry nation upon 
the face of the whole Earth & boil it down into an essence & put it all into one man He would not 
know enough to lay the first stone in the wall around the New Jerrusalem to say nothing about 
building the city & Temple. 

We have got to improve continually and build up good cities & adorn & beautify Zion. And let 
me tel you that if you do not come to that place whare you will not set your heart on any riches or 
gold you are not worthy to do the work of God. And if this people do not build up Zion they will 
be moved out of their place. Evry time we build a House or city we should better it. Evry thing 
around us should be neat & clean. 

Now look at this building for a school house. The ground around this building should be 
prepared for a play ground & kept neat & Clean & prepared so as to make the child Happy. 
Children should be in a clean plase. But how is it here? The moment the children step out of door 
they see nothing but filth all the day long. The minds of our Children while young are pure & 
they should not spend their time in filthy places for it effects their minds & dwellings. They 
should be in a clean place, for they are visited by the Angels of God. But parents do not realize 
this although it is true. 

You may say I do not have time to keep my dwellings, school Houses, door yards &c clean. No 
nor you never will have till you die upon the same principle. But you should take time. Now it 
should not take a week till I would clean out my door Yard. But the people in this Territory have 
not had time to clean out their door yards or to make any thing els they ought to do. 

I will show you that I will set an example for my children to follow. I will teach those things 
which we ought to do to day. I have preached this doctrin from the begining. The first time I ever 
preached was to tell the people the duties of to day. Now if you had all the gold in the world what 
would you do? Would you go to Calafornia? No but go to & build up Zion. You may say their is 
no Calafornia here. We have no gold. But it is not gold that is going to build up Zion though we 
shall use a good deal of it. But we have it to do with our hands. 

You can make a begining & do sumthing. You can set an example. You can clean out your house 
& yard & make that clean, & you can stop the Bed bugs from runing around you. I do not see the 
first fruit or shade tree in this City. Come up to the Salt Lake City & get some Fruit trees & set 
[them] out & have some fruit growing. 

Now this is Zion and the light has come, & shines upon you & you are Call[ed] upon to build up 
Zion. How? By going to Calafornia? No, for there is millions of Gold here & the Lord will send 


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it in sight when He thinks it is best / for us to Have it/ as He did in Calafornia. If you think it is 
not best to Come here go back to Missouri. 

Old Father Harris said that He would stay at kanesville so when the church got ready to go back 
to Jackson County He would have but a short way to go [what?] the people here would. Brother 
G. A. Smith told him He might Happen to find it much the nearest way there by the way of the 
Rocky mountains & many will find that to be the case. The longest way around will be the 
shortest way there. 

We have been called great speculators & misers. I have told the people I was the greatest miser & 
speculator in the world, for I am laying plans to try to obtain evry thing there is on Earth & in 
heaven that is good. That is what I am after all the time. I have told the world that I would 
possess Heven while they would become servants in the next world. My speculations are not 
Confined to this world alone. 

Now I say go to & make a fine house in this place. You may Say I have not the Capitol. Vary 
well look at the salt Lake City. We have built up that City without Capitol. That was built up 
with the strength of our hands which is our Capitol. 

Now I want to say to the people here what do you say to going out on to your lots to build your 
houses & set out Fruit trees? Your wall around this fort is not much protection. You might as 
well stick up a row of willows to scare & stop the Indians as any thing there is here. 

Now go to & build up some good Houses in this place. I want to Join some 16 of the Brethren to 
come here & build up some houses & a wall around it. But I shall build humble here. I shall not 
build large. But I want you to lanch out and then come & see Salt Lake City & If I have not beat 
you I will try again. I am detennined to improve in all the buildings I do while I live. 

If we get our temple built I mean to go to work & build another one as much better than the one 
we are now building as this is better than the one that we built in kirtland and this wing of the 
State House which we have built here is a better building in its finish & structure than that temple 
was. 

Now go to & do what God requires of you, and what ever you want to get get lawfully & then it 
will be a blessing to you allways & you will enjoy it. But steal it & it will be a curse to you & 
cause you sorrow & misery. Whenever I get so that I set my heart upon Houses, lands, Gold or 
any thing Els on earth so as to begin to turn my heart away from the Lord Just want to die before 
that Comes to pass The day before that Comes to pass I want the Lord to take me away. May God 
Bless you. Amen. 

President Heber C Kimball followed & said I felt quite well in the forenoon but I do not feel well 
this afternoon in [-]. I know what President Young has said is true. 

We have Come here & we have Dedicated this people & this place to God. Now do the people 
realize why we are here? No they do not. We are here for the benefit of all Israel. We have not 


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Come here for a salary. We have come here to do the w[ill] of God and I will say that the yoke is 
off from our neck[s?] & it shall never be put on again. Not on the necks of this people. For if we 
do not do as God wants us to do he will ra[ise] up a people that will do it. I tell you that God will 
smite any people that undertake to stop this work. 

And I say that what President Young has said is true. You know that our Children have to leam 
the Alphabet first. So it is with this people. The things which God teaches us are small & simple 
in many respects but they are just as necessary for us to learn & practice as it is for the child to 
leam his letters in order to understand the Arts & sciences. For we have to learn & practice small 
thins before we can obtain & carry out the greater thins of God. 

Now we are required to begin to build up & adorn Zion. We should set out fruit & shade trees. I 
have not done as much as I would liked to have done, but I have raised some 1 5 bushels of 
peaches. President Young has a large orchard. He has raised a good many peaches & apples & 
some 1,000 lbs of Good grapes as good as I ever tasted. And that is as hard a place to live as 
there is in these mountains. My wood for one fire cost me some $1.75. Those canyons are full of 
Good fruit which you can get & set out. I have several kinds of good Currents which 1 got from 
the canyons which bear large & fine fruit. Those things all help adorn the Earth. 

Now go to & build up this place & make a beautiful city. You have a good place around the State 
house for a city & gardens & orchards. The soil is sandy & you have a plenty of manure to make 
it rich. 

The people must learn & practice cleanliness in this life. Some people think they can live all their 
days in filth & dirt never even wash their bodies then die & go to heaven & be clean. But if you 
do not leam & practice this lesson in this life you will have to learn & practice it in the next 
before you will be received into the society of those who are clean pure & holy. 

You have got to be passive in the hands of God As the prophet has said if we are /not/ passive in 
the hands of God as Clay is in the hands of the potter we shall have to be cut off from the whell 
& flung into the batch & ground over again before we Can be made vessels of honour. What? 

Can we be made vessels of honour after we have [been] mared in the hands of the potter & 
ground over again? Yes this will be the case with many but it is far better to be passive in the 
hands of God & be made a vessel of honor the first time than to wait till we have to be ground 
over again. This is a figure which the prophet Jeremiah made use of. 

Now President Young is the Master Potter here on Earth & we should be subject to him in all 
things. We should all remember that we have got to render up our stewardship to God. Therefore 
we should be faithful in all things. And I pray that the spirit of God may rest upon you that you 
may do right & be saved with a full salvation. And I ask it in the name of Jesus Christ Amen. 

Monday 171 spent the fore part of the day in the Council & the afternoon in Joint session. 

18th I spent the fore part of the day in the counsel the afternoon in Joint session. 


Page236 




;}■ \ I wrote 7 Letters to my family which I sent by Brother Pugh viz to Mrs Woodruff Wilford 
Phebe Susan Bulah Moroni & Emma. 

19th I spent the day in the counsel. The whole day was occupied in debating the subject of the 
Education of our Children. 

20th I spent the fore part of the day writing & the afternoon in the council attending to the 
legislative business. 

21st I met in Joint session with the two houses to appoint a census agent. L. W. Hardy was 
appointed. We adjourned till monday. 

22 I spent the day in reading & writing. I read the Books of Ecclesiastes, Songs of Solomon, & 
Isaiah through And I could see by the Prophet Isaiah that one of the causes of the universal 
destruction & abolishment of all the gentile Nations upon the face of the whole Earth in the last 
days will be in Consequence of the universal 111 treatment of the House of Israel viz the Jews 
among all Nations & the Lamanites in America. 

[] The mail came in this evening & brought the Deseret News And a Letter from My Daughter 
Phebe A. Woodruff the first letter I ever received from one of my Children while I was away 
from home. 

23 Sunday I spent the day at home writing & reading. } I wrote a letter at home to my Daughter 
Phebe. I. Morley & W. W. Phelps preached in the forenoon. 

24th to 28 I spent the week in the Legislature. The calafornia Mail Came in & brought papers & 
letters. It brought one a letter to me from Edward Partridge On the Islands. } I wrote a letter to 
Edward Partridge in answer to his. We are having cold weather & snow stonns. 

29th } I spent the day writing. I wrote 3 letters to I. F. Carter Col T. L. Kane. I rote to J. M. 
Bernhisel to Pay $105 for [me?] & I wrote to I F. Carter that I had requested Bemhisel to pay it. I 
wrote a full letter to col Thomas L. Kane & requested him to write to me. 

A Quarterly Conference Commenced to day. Erastus Snow preached a good sermon in the 
forenoon & in the afternoon Elder Wallace prayed & Elder Gates preached to the people a good 
discourse. Was followed by Claudious Spencer then J. B. Nobles & Erastus Snow. All had the 
spirit of the Lord & spoke unto the edifycation of the people. 

Dec 30th Sunday Conference opened at 10 oclock. J. M. Grant addressed the People & was 
followed by President Kimball. I was not preasant & did not report. 

I attended in the afternoon & Elder Orson Pratt spoke in a vary interesting manner concerning the 
fulfillment of Prophesy, the second coming of Christ, the building of the New Jerrusalem, the 
blowing of the trump, the opening of the seals, the pouring out of the plagues, the resurrection of 
the dead &c. 


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He said in 1829 he had this voice Continually ringing in his ears. "Prepare ye the way of the Lord 
& make his paths strait." After he was baptized he went to kirtland & told Joseph that He knew 
he was a Prophit of God & wanted him to inquire of the Lord for him when he obtained this 
revelation recorded in the Doctrins & Covenants given Nov 1830 recorded on Page 280. There 
the Lord told him to lift up his voice long & Loud preparing the way for the second Coming of 
the Lord. Then I understood my former feelings. Br Ray spoke 1". 

I attended the meeting in the evening. Phineas Young attempted to speak to the people but vary 
soon Choaked down with coughing or sumthing in the throat & stoped. Erastus Snow followed & 
spoke at Length in a vary interesting manner upon a great variety of subjects much to the 
Edifycation of those who herd. 

Before the close of the meeting I spoke to the people a few moments. The following are some of 
the remarks which I made: 

Brethren & sisters I feel to say a few words before closing. I have listened with attention to the 
teachings we have herd during this afternoon & evening & I can bear testimony that they are true. 
Elder Orson Pratt has spread before us this afternoon the fulfillment of that grait Chain of 
Prophesies which are to take place before the coming of the Mesiah like a great panarama Spread 
upon the wall so that evry person can see & behold it. Now can we realize that these great & 
glorious events are to transpire within 40 years even in our day & the days of our Children? No 
we cannot. But yet it will be so. 

The President has said that it was necessary to send missionaries through this Territory to preach 
to the people in order to save them. This 1 believe is true. We as a people have got to rise up & 
become sanctifyed pure & holy in order to be prepared to meet the great events which are rushing 
upon us with the rapidity of lightning. We have got to make up our minds whether we will keep a 
Celestial Law or what Law we will keep. It is necessary for us to send messengers of salvation to 
stir up the minds of the people as long as there can be found an Adulterer, a thief, a liar, a 
Blasphemer or a Parent in all Israel that does not bow down morning & evening with his family 
& call upon the name of the Lord. 

Let us seek to lay aside our sins & Call upon the Lord untill we do enjoy the Holy spirit 
continually. Evry man & woman in all Israel may know what law they are ceeping & to what 
Glory they are bound. But all persons may know that they will miss of a full salvation while they 
are Committing sin of any kind. Now let not the people think [it] strange because the Presidency 
of this Church Chastise them. It is their duty & place to do wh[en?] it is necessary. Let us fully 
realize that we should not go to sleep & be careless & indiferent towards the events which we are 
Called to pass through. We should overcome the world the flesh & the Devil, & trust in God for 
evry blessing. Their is neither Male nor female that finally overcome & receive a Celestial Glory 
no matter how great the sacrifice may be in order to obtain it but what will be satisfyed with the 
reward & would not wish to obtain it on any easier term. 


Page238 




3 1st Dec This is the Last day of 1855. We spent the day in the Legislative Assembly. Thus time 
rapidly flies with us. Evry year grows big with Events both with Mount Zion & great Babylon. 
While the past year has been an Eventful one In taking the gospel in a measure from the gentiles 
& carrying it to the Jews even the Lamanites who are begining to Come to understanding & 
while Zion is spreading herself & enlarging her borders in strength, Great Babylon is visited at 
the same time with wars & Bloodsheds pestilence & famine which is ownly a fore runner of what 
is to Come to pass. 

What the future Year will bring to pass, time must detennine, but it will lay many low in death. 
Judgments will Continue to increase upon the gentile Nations & great calamity awate the wicked. 
May the Lord Preserve me from evil sin & transgression. May he enable me to keep the word of 
wisdom & be preserved in life & health with my wives & Children. 

I looked over my Journal & found the following synopsis as recorded on the following Page to be 
my labours during the past year. 


A Synopsis of my labours in 1855 


Itraveld 1505 Miles 
I Attended 80 Meetings 
I Preached 3 1 Discourses 
I Attended 10 General & Quarterly C. 
I Attended Prayer Circles with the 
Presidency & 12 

I Assisted in Ordaining John Smith 
first 

I Ordained 6 High Priests 
I Ordained 16 Seventies 
I Ordained 6 High Council 
I Blessed 58 Missionaries to the 
Lamanites 

I Administered to 1 5 sick persons 
I met with the Legislature 40 days 
I was Appointed President of the 

Universal Scientific Society 
and met with them 25 times 
I was Appointed President of the 
and met with them 6 times 
I Attended A. Grimmer school 
I Reported 24 Sennons 
I Wrote 44 Letters 


1,505 Miles 
80 Meetings 
31 Sermons 
10 Conferences 

35 meetings 

1 Patriarch 
6 High Priests 
16 Seventies 
6 H.C. 

58 Missionaries 
15 Sick 
40 days 


25 times 

Horticultural Society 
6 Times 
37 Evenings 
24 sennons 
44 Letters 


Page239 




I Received 17 Letters 


17 Letters 


{ ======================== = 

Wilford Woodruffs Journal for 1856 

* 


} 


January 

Jan 1st 1856 Tuesday I spent the day at home writing. 

2d I spent the day in Joint Session. All the officers of the Territory were Elected, the Judges, & 
Notary Public of the Counties The Commissioners, Treasurers, Auditors Marshalls, surveyors & 
Attorney Generals, The Chancellors & Regency of the University of Deserett. I was appointed as 
one of the Regency. 

3d I spent the day In the Council. I attended meeting in the evening. Elder J. C. Wright Preached. 
Was followed by J C Little & E. T Benson. J.C. Wright spoke upon honesty, paying Debts, 
making no dishonest Contracts. His teaching was good. Elder Little backed up Brother Wrights 
testimony & exhorted the people to go to & build up the place as the presidency had directed. E. 
T. Benson spoke of men proving themselves true in this Church & kingdom & then they would 
be blessed, to trust in God for their reward. 

4th I spent the day in Joint session. 

5th I spent the day in council. The Judges Secretary Babbitt [] Marshall Haywood, Capt Hardy 
with all the attendant train came in this evening. Their was a mistery hanging over the Company 
which is almost unexplainable. Part of the company were prisoners among whom was Babbitt. 
He wore Chains a part of the way about half in Earnest & half in Jest. 

I received 14 Letters from My Family 3 from Mrs Woodruff 2 from Phebe & Susan 1 From 
Willford, Bulah Moroni Sarah & 2 from Emma. I was truly glad to hear from home. 

6th Sunday I wrote 8 Letters to day to my family in answer } to theirs. I did not attend meeting 
through the day. President Young spoke to the people in the fore noon upon the subject of mens 
Judging each other. He said He reproved men for their acts but He was not prepared to cast men 
down to Hell for their imperfections & acts untill he knew the hearts of men & principles by 
which they were governed. 

He also said that a person always had to experience the opposit[e/ion?] & pass through sorrow, 
pain & affliction before he could be exhalted to glory & if a man had the exact glory that Jesus 


Page240 




had he would have to die in the same way & if a man passed through this world without passing 
through the dregs of poverty he would have to pass through it hereafter before he could be 
exhalted to Eternal riches in their fulness. 

Their is no other way for men to get an exhaltation but to follow their file Leader. The Twelve 
have no right to ask the Presidency why they do this or that or why they tell the Twelve to do this 
or that ownly go & do as they are told & this same principle should go through evry quorum in 
the Church & kingdom of God on Earth & when this rule is observed then the kingdom will be 
ours. 

He reproved the people for selling their land warrants. Said the wicked would put those vary land 
warrants upon our possessions & then there would be a fuss with the Mormons & that was what 
the people of the world [wanted]. 

Lorenzo Snow spoke to the people first & was followed by president Young. Brother Snow 
spoke upon the subject of obeying Council & following their leaders without inquiring why they 
are called to do it. 

Domini cus Carter Preached to the people in the Afternoon a Discourse upon the subject of the 
potter with his Clay & vessels of honor & dishonor. He spoke well. 

He was followed by J. C. Wright. He bore testimony that the Lord has been with this people from 
the beginning up to this day the gifts & graces were manifest. He spoke of many of the sick being 
healed. Even the dead had been raised to life. He spoke of the Law of God. A woman was under 
the Law of her husband & no other. If she obeyed his Law she was under no transgression 
because her husband was her head & evry man & woman had a head. The Presidency of the 
church is the head of the Church on Earth & if we obey them we shall be saved. 

Elder Felshaw followed & gave an Exertation to the Saints & spoke of the privilege the saints 
were now enjoying in Fillmore in hearing from so many of their brethren. 

The people Assembled again at candlelight & were address by O. Pratt /spok/ upon the Law of 
Consecration. He made many good remarks concerning the benefits of the Law of Consecration. 
He was followed [by] J. C. Little who spoke well. Bore a strong testimony of the work of God & 
he was followed by [ ]. 

7th I met in Joint session. A discussion took place. <Some [--]> 

8th \ I Attended Court & took minutes of the proceedings of the trial of Judge Drummond for 
Murder. 

9th I attended Council of the Joint session of the Legislature In the forenoon & the Court in the 
afternoon on the trial of Judge Drummond On an accusation of Murder. It was first brought 
Before the Probate Court then Judge Drummond got out a rit of Habeus Corpus given by Judge 
Kenny. The Case then of the right of writ was tried before Judge Kenny yesterday. Mr Miner & 


Page241 




Mr Kelting plead in behalf of the prisioner. They both took a strong stand against the Probate 
Court, against the Legislature & the Laws of Utah. Kelting made a fool of himself. It was thought 
by some that He was insane and knew not what he said. J. C. Little T. Williams & Wm. Hickman 
Plead in behalf of the State & sustained the probate Court & Utah Laws. 

To day as soon as the Court opened, Judge Drummond infonned the Court that He wished to 
withdraw the whole suit from before him. The Judge informed him that He would have to be 
remanded back to the probate Court. He said He knew that but He wished to withdraw the Suit 
without Malace. It was then withdrawn & the Court Closed. 

\ Jan 9th At 7 oclok in the evening the Legislature & Citizens of Fillmore met in the school 
House to take into Consideration the propriety of Esstablishing a weekly or daily line of stages & 
Mail from the Missouri River to Sacramento. The Secretary A. W. Babbitt spoke first. He was 
followed by Judge Stiles Porter Rockewell Orson Pratt, Enoch Reese, John S Folman. Then 
Governor Young closed. They brought to light many interesting things. W. Woodruff reported all 
their speeches & has them in reserves. The meeting was adjourned to the Tabernacle In Great 
Salt Lake City Saturday 26 Jan. 1856. 

10th I met in the Counsil & spent the fore part of the day. I attended meeting in the evening And I 
addressed the people & told them that we had been with them 5 weeks & the presidency & 
Twelve & the Legislatures had preached to them many good things. I exhorted them to give heed 
to what they had herd. I advised the young men to improve well their time & store their minds 
well with knowledge while in the days of their youth that they might have the benefit of it when 
they come to do business in the Church & kingdom of God. Spoke of the responsibility which 
was resting upon parents. The work of the kingdom of God would Continue to increase as fast as 
its numbers increased. 

Brother Enoch Reese followed & bore testimony to the work of God & spoke much to the 
Edifycation of the people. He was followed by Brother Felshaw, Dobson & others. 

1 1th I spent the day in Joint session on the Malicia & Herd Bills, f I wrote a letter to Elias Smith 
for publication. 

12th I met in Joint session in the forenoon & spent the Afternoon writing. I wrote one letter to 
Father Woodruff. } [] The Mail came in in the evening & brought me one letter from Mrs Phebe 
W. Woodruff which I was glad to get. 

13th Sunday I spent the fore part of the day at home } writing. I wrote 2 letters to Mrs Phebe W. 
Woodruff One family letter, the other personal. 

On the return of the brethren from meeting they informed me that President Brigham Young had 
preached one of the greatest sermons he had ever deliverd on earth. The following are the items 
Delivered to me of his sermon by Jonathan C Wright /but mostly from Thomas Bullocks report 
which was copied from his report/. 


Page242 




2^ \ He Arose & said By our acts we have said to the world we are Christs and we have exhibited 
it more than any (other of the Christian world). Evry thread & tie that binds man to man has been 
broaken assunder (in consequence of receiveing the fulness of the Gospel of Christ). Men have 
left their wives, wives their husbands children their parents & parents their Children (Brothers 
their sisters & Sisters their Brothers in order to be gathered with the saints of God that they might 
partake of salvation). This people have proven to the world by their acts that they have a 
knowledge of the way of life & salvation. This people have proven (to all men) that they can 
sacralizc evry endearment (in this life) for (Eternal) life & salvation & we prove that we bear this 
principle through evry difficulty (which we are Called to pass through). 

It is our duty to make evry sacrafice that is required of us so that our Father in heaven, the Holy 
Angels, & all Just men who sit enthroned in glory power, & dominion may look upon us in this 
Capacity ie that is that they may see in their kingdoms that we do prove to them that we are 

willing to make evry sacrafize /if i may call it a sacrifize/ on Earth [ ing?] to man in order that 

we may secure a seat with them in Eternal light & glory. 

(But notwithstanding all the light & knowledge we have of life & salvation) do you not see how 
easy it is for us to turn away to the right & to the left & say & do many things which we 
afterwards regret & wish we had not done? Is it not the case with us all more or less? It is. I see a 
thousand weakness in myself that I /now/ regret and it is so with all those who have the light or 
the spirit of God. They can see their weaknesses (& regret them & they will try to over come 
them. I can not ownly see these things in myself but I can see them in my brethren. For when I 
leam myself & Brigham I learn my brethren. By this rule I know all of you.) We give way to 
temptation and angry feelings against our Brother & want to be revenged on them. I ask is this a 
righteous feeling? No it is not, and yet we live day by day & week after week & year after year in 
this way. 

The People will be guilty of a little lying a little swareing a little deceiving & a little Stealing. Do 
you think that you Can repent of all your sins & be forgiven in a moment? No you cannot. Evry 
latter day Saint knows better. This would be sectarianism. The religion of the world is that a man 
may commit Murder & when on the gallows he can repent & be forgiven & go right straight to 
Abrahams bosom but this is fals doctrin. It is not true. 

Some say that I Cannot over come my passions when I am tempted & tried I cannot help giving 
way to my feelings. I must give vent to them and scold & sometimes swear and I cannot help it. 
But I tell you that you can help it. You have got to help it sometime or other or you cannot be 
saved. You have got to begin to learn to overcome. You should begin to improve day by day. 
Shun the errors as you see them and improve upon them. Be better men & women tomorrow than 
you are to day. Continue to improve. There is not a man or woman here but what Can do better 
here than they do. 

But says one Brother Brigham says hard words. So I do use harsh words. I am Death and Hell on 
the wicked. But you never hear me speak evil of my brethren. But I will reprove wickedness 


Page243 




among the Human Family. As your leader I will say let us try to improve our lives. Let us 
overcome evry temper and evil passion [that] arises within you. You can shut your mouth and 
keep your tongue still and quiet, and the next time you are tempted you can overcome it easier. 
Keep silence & it will give you a great victory. 

Mothers when you are cross & attempt to correct your children conquer yourselves first. Fathers 
when you feel any of the evil passions of your natures arise then you need the grace of God to 
help bring yourselves into subjection that you may go in the spirit of meekness untill you get the 
victory over your feelings. 

We are liable to get out of the way. We should not do wrong knowingly for if we say or do things 
which are wrong we are under obligation to confess our faults. It would be a hard matter for me 
to confess that I had done wrong knowingly. 

You should be governed by righteousness. Let evary Elder in Israel look upon his brethren & 
sisters like little Children. When a person does a wrong in his foolish weekness look upon it as 
such. 

(We see the Children of man laboring hard to obtain wealth. They labour night & day to obtain 
this object.) But wealth will not give you wisdom, but if you will shun evil and extend the hand 
of charity to evry living being & do good to all (as far as you have an opportunity) this will grow 
in you & you will increase (in wisdom & knowledge). 

We should live so as to enjoy the spirit of Revelation that we may know the will of God 
Concerning us in all things. You should not live for yourselves alone for if your Affections are 
not placed on the Lord Jesus Christ and do not possess Charity you will miss the gate (& not 
enter into the glory of God yourselves) for you will not receive the spirit of the gospel. Your 
hearts should be empted of evry thing but the Spirit of the gospel, (that you may be filled with the 
spirit of Revelation that you may know the voice of the good shepherd. For if this people was to 
loose the spirit of revelation & turn from righteousness they would be liable to be led down to 
hell. But while the people keep the spirit of God & of Revelation with them they would know the 
voice of the good Shepherd.) 

If I was to get out of the way would not all that had the Spirit of God See it, as they did Sidney & 
Strang & Wm. Smith? Yes they would. When Sidney Rigdon Claimed to be the Shepherd & 
leader of this people the people knew not his voice. But when the true shepherd spoke unto them 
they knew his voice and they followed him. 

It is the duty of this people & their privilege to live in such a manner that they cannot be deceived 
by any deceiver. It is your duty to live your religion. No man can magnify the priesthood & their 
calling unless they live their religion, unless they are filled with the spirit of revelation, of the 
Holy Ghost, & of the Holy Priesthood. Then they can magnify their calling and do their duty to 
their Neighbor & to all men. Then their would be an end to Bishops & High Councils trials. 


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Parents are under the deepest obligation to live their religion And the young men & women also 
that when you get married your Children may be begotten in Holiness & bom in Holiness 
Brought forth into the world in Righteousness & then you cannot make any thing but Saints of 
them. Begin your work right. Carry it on right. Bring up your Children right. Then when they are 
old they will not depart from it. 

This is the Covenant which God made with Abraham that to his seed there should be no end. 

And this promise was made to him when he was Childless. He received this Covenants from the 
Lord & desired to see them fulfilled upon the Earth. Abraham was driven from his Fathers house 
after he had received the Priesthood. The Lord Bestowed his Priesthood upon him by a man 
whose name was Melchisedek. When Abraham received the Priesthood the people were so 
wicked that no man would receive him. But the Lord promised him a Seed through whom the 
Holy Priesthood should be perpetuated forever and that to the increase of his seed there should be 
no end. The Lord promised to Abraham this great blessing. A man can have no greater Blessing 
than was promised to him that He should have Children who should have the priesthood. I would 
not ask the Lord for any greater blessing than this for myself. The Lord Promised him that the 
various ordinances of his Kingdom Should be administered through his posterity forever whare 
ever the kingdom of God existed. Then let evry child for the future be begotten in Holiness and 
remember this one thing. Live your religion. 

I now want to speak of another thing. A vary small portion of our time was spent in the Temple 
at Nauvoo whare we began to administer the ordinances according to the words of Malachi in the 
4th Ch 5th & 6 verses "Behold I will send you Elijah the prophet before the Coming of the great 
& Dreadful day of the Lord." "And He shall turn the Hearts of the Fathers to the Children & the 
hearts of the Children to their Fathers lest I Come & smite the Earth with a Curse." 

Abram received the promise from the Lord that his seed should be saved. And all the seed of 
Abraham in all the Gentile Nations or among the Uncontaminated of the house of Israel will be 
gathered. They have sinned. They have changed the ordinances, & broaken their Covenants Or 
you would not see the children of these Mountains in the degredation in which we now find 
them. The Lamanites upon this Continant are Manassehites almost exclusively. Their is but little 
of the seed of Ephraim among them. They are counted as the seed of Abraham and they must be 
saved or they w[ould?] not have become so loathsome as they are. They are punished in the flesh 
to make an attonement in the flesh for their sins & transgressions, and when they pass through 
the veil the enemy has no power over them. 

In the day of the Lord Jesus Christ all the particles of the Blood of Abraham will be gathered 
together. The seed of Abraham has not been counted for many years nor never will be again. If 
an Angel was to commence now to number them all when he had got the numbers together 
before they Could be compiled there would be a great number more bom during the time of there 
numerration so they could not be numbered & this is the reason why his seed Cannot be 
numbered. 


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Brethren & sisters you are of the seed of Abraham & you should live your religion that you may 
claim the promises of Abraham. This priesthood will turn the hearts of the Children to the 
Ancient Fathers & the children to the Fathers now & those which are to Come will be made 
perfect. This Chain must not [be] broaken for mankind Cannot be saved any other way. This 
Priesthood must be linked together so that all the Children may be linked to Father Adam. 

It may be asked when will this work be done. It will be done in Temples in our day & in the days 
of our Children. We shall go into the Temples & be pillars therein & go no more out & we shall 
plant trees & vineyards & eat the fruit thereof. I will Call it the Millennium. I carry it in my heart. 
I say it has begun. Evry Saint Carries it with him. Then let us increase in evry good thing & we 
will extend this influence from Zion untill it roots out evry evil & brings all in subjection to the 
kingdom of our God. 

We will administer in the Temple which we have now begun & that is one point gained & we 
will seal men to men by the keys ^ of the Holy Priesthood. This is the highest ordinance. It is the 
last ordinance of the kingdom of God on the earth and above all the endowments that can be 
given you. It is a finall sealing an Eternal Principle and when once made cannot be broaken by 
the Devel. 

When we return to Zion & build the great Temple which Joseph saw & the centre of Zion is 
Esstablished the glory of God will rest upon it by day & by night & those that are prepared will 
see the face of the Son of man & they will see Joseph & Hiram in the flesh in their resurrected 
bodies. Then will the armies of Israel be terrible to all Nations. Then will one chase a thousand & 
two put ten thousand to Flight. 

Who will resurrect Josephs Body? It will be Peter, James, John, Moroni, or some one who has or 
will receive the keys \ of the resurrection. It will probably be one of those who hold the keys of 
this dispensation & has deliverd them to Joseph and you will see Jesus and he will eat peaches & 
Apples with you. But the world will not see it or know it for wickedness will increase. Joseph & 
Jesus will be there. They will walk & talk with them at times & no man mistrusts who they are. 
Joseph will lead the Armies of Israel whether He is seen or not whether visible or invisible as 
seemeth him good. 

Joseph has got to receive the keys of the resurrection for you & I. After he is resurrected he will 
go & Resurrect Brother Brigham Brother Heber & Brother Carloss, and when that is done then 
He will say now go Brother Brigham & resurrect your wives & Children & gather them together. 
While this is done the wicked will know nothing of it though they will be in our midst and they 
will be struck with fear. This is the way the resurrection will be. All will not be raised at once but 
it will continue in this way untill all the righteous are resurrected. 

After Joseph comes to us in his resurrected body He will more fully instruct us concerning the 
Baptism for the dead & the sealing ordinances. He will say be baptized for this man & that man 
& that man be sealed to that man & such a man to such a man, and connect the Priesthood 


Page246 




together. 


I tell you their will not be much of this done untill Joseph comes. He is our spiritual Father. Our 
hearts are already turned to him and his to us. This [is] the order of the Holy Priesthood and we 
shall continue to administer in the ordinances of the kingdom of God here on Earth. Joseph will 
not officiate in this low capacity any more. Neither did Jesus after his Resurrection. If so he 
would have baptized Saul but he was exhalted above the Earth and he told Saul to go to a certain 
man in a certain street & he would administer to him the ordinances upon the Earth. 

I say to you dont hurry in the ordinances. Dont do what you ought not. It is not time to hurry. We 
should not undertake to do now what we ought to do 50 years hence. What have we to do to day? 
Purify your hearts that you may receive the manifestation of the spirit of God. When you sow 
your wheat you prepare the ground then sow your wheat & watch it untill the hearvest. It is Just 
so in the priesthood. You will be just as busy as you can be to do the things which are to be done 
to day. Now dont be in a hurry. I say we are going to have time enough. I say I will be on the 
Earth to do all I can. And after I die & get my body again my resurrected body I mean to come 
back to the Earth again and fight the Devils and be here at the winding up scene. I want to see 
righteousness prevail & the saints have peace on the earth. 

I wish now to speak upon another subject. I am here as the Governor of this Territory And I wish 
to commence my remarks upon this subject with the President of the United States. Is he the 
Master of the United States? No he is not. He is selected to sit there as one of our servants to act 
for us to do what we wish to have done. So it is with the Congress & the Governors of the several 
States and I am here as one of them as the servant of the people. 

Congress has prepared a Constitution for this Territory which they call the organic act and have 
granted Certain rights to this people as a Community. They have said this Territory should be 
organized thus & So with a Govomor & Legislative Assembly and the right is given to the 
people to select 26 Representatives & 13 Councellors Annually. This body may enact Laws to 
controll each of us & all the inhabitants of this Territory including the governor the Judges the 
Secretary the Supreme Court the District Court, & the Probate Court. They have said they shall 
have all the power given to them by the Legislative assembly. We have a Legislative assembly & 
Magistrates Courts. Congress will send certain men to hold supreme Courts & send other men as 
officers to the Territory of Utah to transact business for the Territory of Utah so as to make it as 
easy as possible. 

The United States judges are not here as kings or Monarchs but as servants of the people. And 
when you see a Judge puting a City under Martial Law they manifest Boyisim & you Should pitty 
them & give them a peace of Cake. If a man wants to be what he is not it is certain that He wants 
to get out of his sphere. When some men know a hundred words He thinks he knows all of 
webster. Some will try to study a hundred sciences of the day & then know no more than a child. 
When a person studies Divinity 5 years they are ownly fit to be put down upon the ground as a 
block to stand upon to get upon your horses. 


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I see some here who have come 50 or 100 miles at the squaking of a goose Crow & dont you 
know if you want a Court held there that the Judge should go there & hold it? And if a Judge 
dont know this it is because he is vary ignorant, And He ought to leam his duty. 

I am perfectly asstonished at these my Brethren to think that if a man takes a pumpkin & says it is 
an Apple you must acknowledge that it is an Apple & swallow it as such. Or if they take a rotton 
potatoe & say it is a peach then cram it down your throat as a peach. When you see a rotton 
Potatoe why dont you acknowledge it is a rotten potatoe? 

Now I say to you Jurymen & witnesses pack up your dudds & go home & stay there till you have 
business. If I Come here & act the tyrant insted of a Governor you ought to kick me out and all 
officers ought to be served in the same way when they get out of the way & act the fool or els let 
the people swallow the rotten potatoe & call it a peach. 

I know the meaning the marrow & the pith of the Laws and the vary principle upon which they 
are built much better than the Judges do. I know the meaning of them & the Duty of all the 
officers in this Territory. I say this for your instruction. To see men come here at the calling of a 
foolish boy, freezing your toes & killing your horses in the cold month of December is 
foolishness. When you want him send for him & pay your respects to him. But they do not 
understand the Law. Take some of the boys & learn them sumthing and treat them as Gentlemen 
& make them treat you as a Gentleman. 

When I see Lawyiers & Judges rising up here & saying that our laws are not right & we should 
not be governed by them, It puts me in mind of the Anecdote of the fox that went to a hen Coop 
to ketch some Chickens. The owner had put a cord from the platfonn to a Bell overhead so as 
soon as the platfonn was tuched the bell would ring. As soon as the fox jumped onto the platfonn 
the bell rung & away the fox run with all his might. But on looking behind him he saw nothing so 
he went back to the coop & examined to see what the matter was. He touched the cord with his 
foot & it rung but did no hurt so he Jumped into the coop & got his chicken. He looked up & saw 
the bell was hollow & had a long ox tongue & the Fox exclaimed you are a poor miserable 
Hollow headed Devil. 

Lawyiers & Judges should be made to keep the Laws of this Tenitory as well as other Citizens & 
if they wont do it put them in a the way [sz'c] that they will be made to. And I say to evry man 
who has no business here pack up your goods & go home. Let the Judges honor me, & our laws 
& the officers of this Territory or they will not receive any honor from me. 

I see One man on my right who will go strait & tell the judges what I have said. He is a kind of 
perpetual Telegraph and if [my?] man Come to me & says Brother Brigham do you mean me I 
will say you are the Man. (Alluding to Elisha Hoopes.) 

Choir sung I will praise my maker while I have breath. Benediction By J M Grant. 

The people again Assembled at 2 oclok. Prayer By Dominicus Carter. President Brigham Young 


Page248 




addressed J M Grant Addressed the people & spoke much to our edefycation. I reported. He said 
if President Young did not entirely lift up the veil so that we could look intirely through it was 
lifted so that we could have a glimps. He was folowed by E. T. Benson who bore testimony of 
the work of God. 

Monday 14th I spent the day writing president Youngs sermon. 

151 spent the day writing. 

16th I spent the day in Joint session which was the last days business in the Legislature. We done 
a great deal of business. It continued untill in the night. We had a speech delivered in the 
Afternoon \ from Canosh the Chief of the Parvans. The following are some of the remarks which 
He made: 

I am just begining to get my eyes open. I know that President Youngs talk is good. What He says 
is so. He tells us more good. I am like the sun just rising in the East & so with my people. We 
have been in the night. I have had eyes but I could not see, & ears but I Could not hear & this has 
been the case with my people. Our hearts Could not understand but now our eyes see, our ears 
hear, & our hearts understand, all that Brigham & Heber has said is strait. But when I talked to 
Col Steptoe & his men their talk was not strait. I could not believe for a tenth part of their talk is 
not true & so with the spanyards & all white people till I saw the mormons. They are the first to 
tell me the truth. 

You are here to make laws. I hope you will make good laws to punish the guilty & spare the 
innocent. 

I wish to do right & have my people do right. I do not want them to steal nor kill. I want to plant 
& raise wheat & leam to plough & do as the white people do. This I am going to do in the spring. 
I want to leam to read & right & have my Children so we Can understand what you say to us that 
is good. 

17th I spent the day writing & preparing to leave for home tomorrow. 

18th \ The Legislature met this morning at the state House at 5 oclok and adjourned till the 2nd 
Monday in dec 1856. After adjournment The Governor & all the Northern Members & Judges 
Started for home. It was a vary Cold morning. We rode to the severe & on to within 1 mile of 
Chicken Creek & camped for the night. 44 miles. It was an extrem cold night. We camped on the 
side of the mountain in the snow. Many lade down cedar boughs on the snow to make their beds 
but it was to Cold to sleep. I arose at 2 ock & set by a cedar fire to warm myself. It was 
understood that 

19th The company was to start at 4 oclock to go to Nephi to Breakfast. Some of the waggons 
started out at that hour. T Bullock J C Wright myself & others started out at 4 oclock to walk 
thinking that our waggons would soon be along but they did not start till 2 hours afterwards. We 
walked 7 mils and it was so exceding Cold in the snow & on So high an altitude that we thought 


Page249 




we should freeze. So we stoped in a patch of Greeseweed & struck a fire & staid by it 2 Hours 
before the waggons came up. Several firooze their feet & fingers. 

When we arived at Nephi we were thoroughly Chilled through. We got wann took dinner & rode 
to Pason & spent the night [with] Brother Hancock Bishop. We rode 45 miles to day. Lorenzo 
Snow & myself J. M. Grant & J. C. Little & Ladies spent the night at Brother Israel Calkins. He 
charged us all 50 cts per meal & 25 for lodging. 

20th It stills continued vary cold. We rode to Provo took dinner then rode to the 1st settlement 
South of Lehi. I spent the night with Broth & Sister Parsons. President Young and Kimball 
Preached to the People in the evening. I did not attend & did not report. 

2 1 We started at 8 oclok & rode to the City of the Great Salt Lake. I arivd home to my family at 4 
oclok. I was truly glad to meet with my family again after being absent from them 7 weeks. 
Distance to Filmore 160 Back 160 total 320. 

22d I spent the day at home mostly. I went to the tithing office to settle my tithing. A Note was 
brought against me for taxes on goods for $104.80 cts which I paid in 1850, but did not take it up 
but by reference to b[ac?]k accounts it was found that I had paid it. 

23d /& 24 & 25/ I spent the time at home reading & writing. I read a work Entitled wild scenes in 
a Hunters Life Including Cummings Adventures Among the Lions & other wild animals of 
Africa esspecially the Elefant. It was an interesting work. It gave an account of the nature of all 
the wild Animals of Africa in the Hunt & nearly all animals in the world. 

26th \ Saturday There was a mass Meeting of the people according to the adjournment at 
Fillmore who met to day at the Tabernacle for the purpose of taking into consideration the 
propriety of Esstablish[ing] a daily express & passenger communication betwen the western 
States & Calafomia or more extendedly between Europe & China. 

The meeting was organized by Chusing Gov Young President. Chief Justice J F Kinny Presidents 
H C Kimball, J. M Grant, Hon A M Babbitt, J P Stiles D. H. Burr, D. H. Wells, G Hurt W. Bell 
W. Gerrish & Hon P. P. Pratt were Chosen Vise Presidents & W. Woodruff O. Pratt & Wm. H 
Hooper Secretaries G. D. Watt Reporter. 

The Governor stated the object of the meeting and made a few remarks after which A. W. Babbitt 
delivered an address & was followed By Judge Stiles, Dr Hart T. S. Williams J. C. Little E Reese 
O P Rockwell S. M. Blair & W. H. Hooper. Mr Thomas Bullock read several resolutions upon 
which the Governor offered some suggestions, whare upon a committee was appointed to draft 
resolutions to be presented at the next meeting. Adjourned to meet at the same place on Saturday 
Feb 2d at 1 PM. 

27th Sunday I attended meeting at the Tabernacle. President Young spoke to the people. He was 
followed by H. C. Kimball & J. M. Grant. Br Watt Reported. I attended the Prayer meeting in the 
Circle then I attended 14th ward school House & preached to the people. Father Morley made a 


Page250 




few remarks before me & I was followed by Bishop Hoagland & Br Horn. We had a good 
meeting & a full House. 

28th I spent the day at home reading & writing. 

29th \ I spent the day at home but the evening at the Social Hall. I attended the Legeslative Party 
with my family. It was a splendid get up affair. We staid till 2 oclock. 

30 I spent the day at home. I was unwell. Had taken could. 

3 1st I spent the day at home & in the evening I attended the Polosophical Juvinile Society & herd 
the Children speak their pieces & read their Compositions. The school was Addressed By 
Brother Clements [Millet?] Babbitt & W Woodruff. We had a good meeting. 

February 

Feb 1st 1856 The Calafornia Mail came in & I spent the day reading the news of the European 
War the Missouri rail Road Accident & the general News of the days. 

2d We are having a hard winter. Cold weather much snow. It is reported that a vast number of the 
Cattle Horses Mules sheep & young cattle are dying. It is snowing this morning. 

The adjourned mass \ meeting on the express daily line met at 2 oclok. Prayer By J. M. Grant. 
Brother Enoch Reese addressed the meeting & was followed by J. M. Grant, Judge Kenny, L. W. 
Hardy O. P. Rockwell & closed by a lengthy & good speech from Gov Young. I took minutes of 
the meeting. Elder Watt Reported in full. 

3d Sunday I attended meeting in the Tabernacle. P P Pratt addressed the People. Spoke upon 
drilling wheat cultivating less land & doing it better. 

He was followed by President Kimball who said what Brother Pratt had said was Gods truth evry 
word of it. For all truth was gods truth. Some people cannot see the end of theire nose. If they did 
they would know more. I believe men in their resurrected bodies eat or they would die. I believe 
they eat as well as men in their mortal bodies. 

You have got to be subject to the priesthood & leam to obey your head or you will be damned. 
We have the Apostles here to lead us and if we are passive in ther hands we shall be saved. You 
should be vary careful of the Apostles while you have them with you. Speak well of them & treat 
them kindly & do them good or you will suffer. You expect to be saved But you have got to do 
right. 

A Man asked me if I had not got women sealed to me that were rebellious to you. I told them it 
was none of their Business. He asked if that would take away any of my glory. I said No it will 
not. If your wives are rebellious against you let them go away if they want to. It will not take 
away my glory for my wives to leave me. If I do my Duty & do not have women that will obey 
me I will go to heaven & the Lord will give me all that I want. I would like to raise up a good 


Page25 1 




Posterity on Earth if I could but I dont want to fight in order to do it. Many other remarks was 
made which I have not written. 

4th I spent the day at home writing. I wrote one Letter to Br } Covington. 

I met with the Regency at President Young Room at Candle light. It held till 10 oclok. The main 
subject that was dwelt upon was the getting up of a first & 2d Readers for our Children in this 
Territory. A committee of three was appointed to get up those Books & present them to the board 
for exceptance. The Committy were G. D. Watt Samuel Richards W Woodruff. We adjourned for 
one week. 

5th I walked down into the big field with Brother Whittle in the fore part of the day & in the 
afternoon I met with the Committee at the Governors Room. We commenced upon the first 
reader. 

6th 7 8 & 9th I spent nearly all my time through this week till 9 or 10 oclok at night in President 
Youngs office in company with Brothers Watt & Richards in making the manuscript for the first 
Reader to be published in the Deserett Alphabet. I spent some time in searching other Books for 
matter to make up our Books with but my mind was dark in that channel & the spirit that was 
upon me lead me to make up our Books out of our one [own] experience, travels incidents, 
History, doctrin & location. Mostly my mind was clear free & open upon these subjects, & we 
Commenced to write upon such subjects as the Pioneers, Mormon Battalion, salt Lake valley & 
Utah Territory Griserly Bear & Buffalo Bull fights &c &c. 

10th Sunday A hard snow storm. A great number of Cattle are dying through the Territory. The 
snow is two feet deep in Davis & webber counties. 

I attended meeting at the Tabernacle and herd Elder Orson Pratt Preach to the people upon our 
evry day duties. He thought the saints ought to be more faithful & interested in the spiritual 
things of the kingdom of God. He said that Allan Huntington [who] was appointed a missionary 
to the Indians had been guilty of swareing a great deal. He had herd him. It was then Moved & 
carried that He be cut off from the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. It was carried 
unanimously. 

I attended the prayer Circle in the evening. The candidate ticket for the convention was made out 
by the Council. 

Arropene the Utah Chief attended meeting & sat in the stand with me to day. 

Brother P. P. Pratt said to me that He thought the three Nephites could not vary well visit the 
Lamanites yet & tell them to believe what the Mormon Missionaries told them lest there might 
be occasionally a bad man among them who would sware as Huntington did or would take the 
advantage of them in some way so that it would cause the Lamanites to loose Confidence even in 
the Holy Messengers. 


Page252 




1 1th I spent the day in the Presidents upper room with the Committee to work on the reader. 
President Young kindly offered the Committee his upper room to work in while getting out the 
Books. 

\ We met with the regency this evening at the Presidents upper room. The work of the committee 
was red & excepted. The remainder of the evening was occupied by exercises upon the black 
board. Another Committee of revision or examination was appointed to assist us who were 
appointed as the first Committee. 

President Brigham Young has had his mind deeply exercised upon the getting up of the Deserett 
Alphabet & carrying it into the practical use. He has laboured hard from the begining upon this 
subject & we are now making Books under his direction to be published in this Alphabet. We 
have got to get the type made as the letters are entirely new from any others now in use. I am 
satisfyed that great good will grow out of the Deseret Alphabet. It is an entire change of the 
English orthography of our English language. It spells all words by sound. The committee who 
were last chosen were A. Carrington D. H. Wells & Wm. Willis. 

12 to 16 I spent this week with the Committee making Books. I attended Mrs Kimballs school 
friday evening which was a Juvinile polosophical society And the same kind of a school in the 14 
ward taught by Mr Combs. The scholars have made good progress during the winter. 

17th Sunday I attended the meeting in the Tabernacle. Father Isaac Morley spoke to the people 
for a short time & was followed by President Brigham Young in a vary interesting manner. G D 
Watt reported & it is published in the [ ] No [ ] Vol of the Deserett News. 

I attended prayer meeting in the evening Circle. President Young asked Elder Orson Pratt what 
He thought of his preaching that intelligent beings would continue to learn to all Eternity. O. 

Pratt said that He believed the Gods had a knowledge at the present time of evry thing that ever 
did exhist to the endless ages of all Eternity. He believed it as much as any truth that he had ever 
learned in or out of this Church. President Young remarked that he had never learned that 
principle in the church for it was not taught in the Church for it was not true. It was fals doctrin 
For the Gods & all intelligent Beings would never scease to learn except it was the Sons of 
perdition they would continue to decrease untill they became dissolved back into their native 
Element & lost their Identity. 

In speaking of this people He said if they would behave half deesent they would not be driven 
away from this place. 

I attended meeting at the 14th ward school House in the evening. Elder P. P. [Pratt] Preached a 
good discourse. He told the bishop to cut off all the Liars thieves, Adulterers, & profane swarers 
from the church for they would rot the body if they continued on it, and many wicked men would 
stick by the church but they would never repent of their sins. Their was a time when men could 
repent & have the spirit of God but when that time was past men might pray till their knees were 


Page253 




Callaced & they could not get the spirit of God. 

How long did the people that were destroyed in the flood have to wait before they Could have the 
offer of the spirit of God or the gospel? They had to wait more than two thousand years till after 
Christ Came & was Crusiphied. He then went & preached to the spirits in Prision. The gospel 
was then offered unto them. 

And how has it been with the Jews? They once saw the day when the gospel was offered unto 
them but when they put to death their king & savior the gospel was taken from them & given to 
the gentiles. It was also given to the Lamanites & ten tribes of Israel. The first were to be last & 
the last first. It will now Come to the gentiles first then to the ten tribes of Israel & to the 
Lamanite before it will go to the Jews. They will be the last to receive it. 

Who has ever herd of the Jews having the spirit of God, or the Gospel, or kingdom of God 
offered to the Jews since they put to death Jesus Christ & the kingdom went to the Gentiles? No 
one for it has never been done. They will go home in unbelief & wickedness & rebuild 
Jerrusalem in that state & they will be so far from the gospel that when the Gentiles Come 
against them to battle, rifle their houses ravish their women & carry half of their City into 
captivity & Jesus Christ Comes & delivers them in the midst of this hour of perrill & trouble they 
will not know him or even imagin who he is till they ask him about his wounds & he tells them 
th[at?] the gospel has to be preached to them & they repent & are baptized & receive the first 
principles of the gospel. 

He also said their was a promise that the three Nephites & angels should visit the Lamanites but 
they could not be sent to them with messages to receive & obey the Monnons untill all the 
Mormon Missionaries were righteous men & would not steal, lie, sware or commit Adultery for 
if the Angels were to tell them to obey the Monnons & they found the Mormons to do wickedly 
they would loose confidence in both the Mormons & the Angels. 

18th I spent the day in the committee room to work at Books. 

191 spent the day in the committee room. I attended a party at Mrs Kimballs school house with 
her scholars. The evening was spent in dancing & speaking. 

20 I spent this day in the committe room. 

211 spent this day in the Commmittee room & the evening in the Seventies Hall with the 
Polosophical society & herd many good Essays speeches, songs & musical entertainment. We 
had a good time. 

22d I spent the day in the committe room & attended two meeting in the evening one the 
Horticultural society & chose J. M. Bernhisel our deligate or agent. I also attended the 
Tipographocal society. The constitution was adopted a President & Board Appointed. I was 
appointed second reporter. 


Page254 




23d I spent the day in the committe room. 

24th k Sunday I attended Meeting at the Tabernacle and herd a discourse from Elder Joseph 
Hovey. He spoke vary well. He told his experience from the begining of the work. 

He was followed by President Brigham Young who sustained Brother Hovey in what he had said. 
He then took up the subject of the Courts as held in Great Salt Lake City and also the ungodly 
course of the Lawyers who carry on those Courts. He cursed them in the Name of the Lord with a 
great Curse & All Israel said Amen. He spoke in the spirit & power of God. He called Zerubabel 
Snow by name & he cursed him and all that He had. His serman is published in the times Deseret 
NewsVol[ ] Number [ ]. 

I attended the prayer meeting at the Presidents Office. <President Young said I think that my 
brethren of the> 12 <and all others that belong to the church that have no other business only to 
go to those courts should come and give up their license and be dismissed from their calling. It is 
no place for us. I will say that to any one of the> 12 <or any elders they have done their duty no 
more [— ] than lawyers do. President Young said to> E Snow <that if he held [--]> Snow <that he 
should share in his blessings if it was in hell lire. Brother Snow asked forgiveness of the Quorum 
for what he had done.> 

At the Close of the Prayers I went to the 13 ward & Preached there to the 14 ward & Herd Elder 
Benson Preach. We had word in counsel } that the Indians had again Commenced war had killed 
three Boys & driven off Horses & cattle. Several Indians had been killed & wounded. 

25 I spent the day in the Commitee room. I attended a Horticultural Meeting Also a Bishops 
Meeting in the evening. 

26th I spent the time in the Committe Room. The regency met at the Presidents Office in the 
evening. W. Woodruff Chainnan of the Committee reported considerable Matter on hand but had 
not been revised by the Committe on revision. 

27 I spent the day in the commmittee room. 

28th I spent the day in the committee room and attended the polosophical society in the evening. 

29th } I wrote Dr Bernhisel a letter via Calafornia. I spent a part of the day in the Committee 
room. 


March 

March 1st 1856 This my birth day. I am 49 years old this day. I spent the day fanning up wheat. I 
raised 60 bushels of wheat last year on 15 acres. This we had to glean it being small p[atches?] 
which the grass hoppers left. 

2d Sunday Amasa Lyman spoke to the people & was followed by President Young who reproved 


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the people. He considered the people were not ownly asleep but working wickedness. He 
considered many of the people were like a company of Men rushing to a precipice on a dark night 
on horsback whare neither horse nor rider could see any thing but would soon be dashed to 
peaces. He wanted the Elders to put away their velvet lips & smooth things & preach sermons 
like pitch forks tines downwards that the people might wake up. 

H C Kimball preached in the Afternoon & backed up President Young in what he said. He spoke 
vary plain & p[ointe?]d. He was followed by President Grant who rained down pitch forks & 
forked lighting figuratively speaking upon the Gentiles who were working wickedness upon this 
people & defiling the females. He spoke vary plain & pointed. 

At the close of the meeting I attended the prayer meeting or circle at the presidents office. The 
Calafomia Mail had Came in and the time was spent till dark in reading letters & papers. Some 
letters were from Dr Bernhisel. We leam from the papers that Annies are gathering at Kansas for 
civil war and Commotions are increasing in all the Earth. 

I attended meeting at the 14 ward school house & preached to the people. I was followed by 
Brother Balantine & Bishop Hoagland. The Indian war Continues. 3 more brethren have been 
killed. Squash one of the war Chiefs was put in prision & the report is that he cut his own throat. 
He is dead. 

3d I spent the fore part of the day in the Committee room. \ * Received a mission from President 
Young to day to prepare and go East in the spring to get the Deseret Alphabet type made & sore 
books printed in it. I attended the exhibition in the evening at the Social hall with my family. 

4th & 5th I spent the time in the committee room. 

6th I spent the day in the committee room. In the evening I had a visit from Sister Foss & family 
& Johnson & Ladd. We spent the evening in talking over past events. Their had been some hard 
feelings in days past all of which were amicably settelled this evening {} with all parties 
Concerned. 

7th I spent the day in the Committee room. I met with the Regency in the evening. 

8 I spent the day in the committee room, spent the evening at home. 

9th Sunday Brother D. H. Wells spoke to the people in the forenoon & was followed by 
presidents Kimball & J M Grant. W Woodruff spoke in the afternoon & was followed By Brother 
Grant & Kimball. I attended the prayer Circle in the evening & Preached to the people in the 17th 
ward. 

101 spent the day in the committee room & met with the regency. The evening was spent in 
writing upon the Black board. 

1 1th T I spent a part of the day in the committee room & met with the Regency in the evening. 


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The time was occupied till 10 oclock writing lessons upon the black board. 

Then the subject was brought up concerning Adam being made of the dust of the Earth And 
Elder Orson Pratt pursued a Course of Stubbornness & unbelief in what President Young said 
that will destroy him if he dos not repent & turn from his evil way. For when any man crosses the 
track of a leader in Israel & tryes to lead the prophet He is no longer led by him but is in danger 
of falling. 

121 spent the day in the committee room. 

131 spent the day in the committee room & in the evening I attended the polosophical society. 

14th I spent a part of the day in the committee room & attended the Lecture at the Social Hall 
delivered by Professor Carrington before the Typographical & Press association. He spoke well. 
He was followed by W Woodruff & A. Lyman. 

15th I spent most of the time at home. 

16th Sunday I spent the time in the tabernacle. Broth Vernon Preached a vary interesting 
discourse to the people & was followed by President B Young. 

17th I spent the day in the Committee Room & in the evening I met with the Regency & at 10 
oclok I went to a stream of water & Baptized all my family that was over 8 years old. Three 
wives 3 Children & a lamanite Boy Called Moroni. ^ I returned to My house & confirmed them 
all. 

A 

18th March 1856 Mrs Phebe W. Woodruff & myself in Company with our two oldest Children 
Wilford & Phebe repaired to the house of the Lord that Our children might receive their 
endowment. I washed & anointed my Son Wilford and ordained him to the office of an Elder & 
sealed upon him all the Blessings of his ordination, Anointing, & my Birthright in Compliance 
with Council of President Kimball. <The following is the symbols of the [blessing?] sealed upon 
the head of Wilford Woodruff by his father Wilford Woodruff: > 

[ ] 

I spent the day in the Council House & had an interesting day long to be remembered for the 
Blessing that Father Joseph Smith the Patriarch sealed upon my head before I had any children 
was fulfulled this day upon my head in a measure for He said that I should live to have posterity 
who should recieve the priesthood & my oldest son received it this day under my hands. 

19th to 22nd I spent the time ploughing for wheat. 

23rd Sunday I attended meeting in the Tabernacle. H C Kimball Preached in the forenoon & J M 
Grant in the afternoon. I Attended meeting in the evening in the prayer Circle. 


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24 to 29 I spent this week ploughing & sowing wheat. 

March 30th Sunday I attended at the Tabernacle the meeting through the day & the prayer 
meeting in the evening. 

March 3 1 to April 5th I spent this week ploughing & putting in wheat. I finished putting in 14 1/2 
Acres of wheat. 


April 

April 6th 1856 Conference Commenced in the Bowery ^ this morning at 10 oclok the Minutes of 
which are published in the Deseret News of April 9th. At 5 oclock PM Elders P P Pratt & O 
Pratt, W Woodruff L Snow & E Snow Blessed 115 Missionaries who were appointed to go on 
Missions to the Lamanites & Gentiles. The day was occupied by President Young G. A. Smith 
And O Pratt. 

7th The fore part of the day was occupied by P. P. Pratt L Snow. In the Afternoon W Woodruff 
delivered an Address upon the Deseret Agricultural and Manufacturing Society. All the 
Authorities of the Church were presented & received And W. Woodruff was Appointed Assistant 
Historian was to take care of charge of the office during the absence of G. A. Smith. 

The Twelve met in the Tabernacle at 5 oclok & Blessed & set apart 88 Missionaries. They 
blessed & set apart 255 persons in all. During the conference W. Woodruff ordained in Company 
with others 12 to the office of Seventies. He Blessed Wilford Woodruff Brandon & ordained 
him. He was named after me 18 years ago. I Baptized his Father & Mother 22 years ago in 
Tennessee. His Father has been dead several years. I took him home to my house gave him one 
Dollar a Blessing & good council & let him go his way. 

8th The day was mostly occupied by E T Benson O Pratt & Patrick Lynch. Conference 
Adjourned till the 6th day of Oct next. 

9th to 12 I spent the time fanning & gardning. The Calafomia Mail had came in about the first of 
the Month & brought me One letter from J. M. Bemhisel & the Mormon. I wrote } [] 5 letters 3 to 
J Taylor & 2 to J M Bernhisel. I was called to lay hands upon Sister J. M. Bemhisel some 2 
weeks since. She was delivered of a fine Son the same night. 

13th Sunday Elder O. Pratt preached in the forenoon upon the evidences of the Book of Mormon. 
He quoted a good deal from Lord Kingsborough extensive work upon the Antiquities of the 
American Indians & Mexicans the most extensive work ever got up by the gentiles upon this 
subject. It is in 9 volums. Each vol will weigh 30 or 40 lbs. Many of the manuscrips have been 
deposited among the Archives of Europe for hundred of years. There was but 30 or 40 copies 
ever published it is said, & but one of those copies are in America one in the Philadelphia 
Museum & the other in the City of the great Salt Lake owned by Professor Orson Pratt. 


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J. M. Grant Preached in the Afternoon. Spoke of Golightly's shop being broaken open & [150?] 
lbs of flour taken from it. W. Woodruff lost 35 lbs. from his bakery. W. Woodruff followed & 
said that those that took his flour if they took it because they were suffering with Hunger & 
would ask a Blesing upon the bread when it was made & send him home the bags he would not 
bring an Accusation against them. At the close of the meeting the bags were put in sight & 
brought to me next morning. 

2 ^ I met in the Prayer Circle in the evening And the following named persons received their 
blessings & was set apart for their Missions: Elders O. Pratt G A Smith E T. Benson Erastus 
Snow, Truman O. Angel & Phineas Young. W Woodruff wrote them all from memery 3 days 
afterwards & had them Copied into the Historians Book of Events. G A. Smiths Blessing was 
written by his dictation By T. Bullock. The remainder W. Woodruff wrote. 

14th I spent the day mostly at home part of the day in the Historians Office. 

15th I met with President B. Young at his office with G. A. Smith & T. Bullock. Red Church 
History to him. I am about getting inniciated into my office as assistant Historian. While reading 
the revelation upon the patriarchal marriage & While reading that paragraph relating to the 
sheding of innocent Blood President Young remarked that that was a vary nice point to 
distinguish between innocent Blood & that which is not innocent. Were we now Commanded to 
go & avenge the Blood of the prophets whare it wood reach infants from the Cradle to the third 
& forth generation would they know what to do in such a case? They would not. But there is one 
thing that is a consolation to me And that is I am satisfied that the Lord will not require it of this 
people untill they become sanctifyed & are led by the spirit of God so as not to shed inocent 
Blood. 

Again what does the saying mean that sayes all shall be damned that does not keep this Law unto 
whom it is revealed? Does it mean that they shall take more wives than one? I think it includes 
the whole law with its covenants. I think that many that come into this world will be damned or 
disorganized And I think this is the Death that is refered to that the Broad road leads to while few 
will enter through the straight gate into the fulness of Eternal life for their are many who will not 
keep the law of life. \ 

President Young Had Brother Cannon take a Daguerreotype likeness of the temple draft for 
Truman O Angel to take with him to England. The likeness was taken in miniature of the Temple 
drawn by the Architet, Truman O Angel, & it was an excellent likeness the first time trying. 
Brother Cannon was paid $6 for his labor. President B. Young then wrote the following words to 
be put upon one of the Stones of the Temple: 

Holiness to the Lord 
The Temple of our God 

Built by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints 
Commenced on the 6th day of April A.D. 1853. 


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16th I met again to day with President Young & G. A. Smith & T. Bullock. Read /manuscript of 
the/ Church History to him up to Joseph & Hirams Death in Jail. It brought fresh to mind the 
scenes of those sorrowful days. This is the last day G. A. Smith spent with President Young 
reading History before he started upon his Journey for Washington As a Delegate from the 
Deseret state convention. We dined with President Young. I paid cash [-] as a Donation to the 
poor fund into the Hands of Brother Mcintosh. 

171 spent A part of the day writing the Blessing of those of the Twelve who were Blessed last 
Sunday night By the Presidency & Twelve. I had them recorded in the Book of incidents in the 
Historians office By Robert Campbell. O Pratt W. Woodruff & G A. Smith laid hands upon 
Elder P. P. Pratt who was vary sick & had been insensible of any thing for two days. 

18th I went to the Historian office in the morning. Spent some time writing Journal. Elder G. A. 
Smith & myself laid hands upon the head of Samuel Harrison Bailey Smith the son of Samuel 
Smith the witness of the Book of Mormon. G A Smith was mouth. We ordained him one of the 
Seventies & set him apart to go upon his mission to the United States. We had a good blessing. It 
was written By Thomas Bullock. 

19th I spent the day at home at work in my door yard. 

20th Sunday David Fulmer preached in the morning. Was followed By President B Young. He 
spoke much to Edifycation. It will be published in the Deserett News. J. M. Grant & H. C. 
Kimball Preached in the after[noon] & we had a good meeting. 

In company with J. M. Grant Bishop Hoagland & Joseph Horn I laid hands upon P. P. Pratt who 
was vary sick. We annointed him & rebuked his sickness & as his family was out of Bread we 4 
men gave 50 lb of flour each making 200 lbs. 

I met with the Presidency & Twelve in the prayer Circle. After prayers President Young asked 
those who were going away if they were satisfied with him & felt satisfied that He was keeping 
up with the spirit of the times. They all said they were. They asked if he was satisfied with them. 
He said he was. He Advised Elder G A. Smith not to indulge in Arguring any point question or 
principle which he did not believe for the sake of Argument or to draw sumthing out of others as 
it was dangerous ground. Brother Smith thanked him for his Advise & promised to follow it. 

Brother G. A. Smith spoke in plainness of his feelings concerning some principles of Elder O. 
Pratt wharein he differed from President Young concerning the creation of Adam out of the Dust 
of the Earth & the final consumation of knowledge & many other things. I am afraid when he 
comes to write he will publish in opposition to President Youngs views but he promised he 
would not. Many remarks were made which Thomas Bullock took & it is filed in the Historians 
office. 

21st The Historians office was crouded with clerks taking a copy of the Census. 29 was the 
highest number at any one time. It was a vary busy day. I called upon Bishop Haywood in the 


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evening with G. A. Smith. He was preparing his waggon to leave in the morning. } I wrote a 
letter to J. M. Bemhisel sent By G A Smith. It contained Brother Houty Bill. /My Ox died this 
morning with mortification. I ennoculatid my arm with it while skining him./ 

22d \ The missionaries left this city this morning & met at the mouth of the canyon. I took my 
family in a carriage & went to the mouth of the canyon to visit them & take minutes of their 
organization. President Young arived at 1/2 past 10 oclock & organized the company by 
appointing A. O. Smoot Captain Wm Miller Captain of the guard Elder Benson Chaplain James 
Ure Clerk. He gave them some instruction concerning their Journey & gave them his parting 
blessing. Br J V Long reported his speech. W Woodruff took a list of the names of those going to 
the States & found them to be 36 in number. Professor Pratt goes to Liverpool to take the place 
of Franklin D. Richards. Hon G A. Smith Delegate from Utah is in route for Washington. He in 
connection with Hon John Taylor will urge Utah's claims to be numbered with the States. Elder E 
Snow is on his way to take the presidency at St Louis & publish the Luminary. Marshall 
Haywood & other is on an official trip to Washington. They left in good spirits. 

I returned to the city & still found all the Clerks busy making out the papers for Hon G A Smith. 

I stoped till midnight in the office. I wrote a letter to G A Smith & sent him a package of papers. 
Most of the Clerks remained all } night to get the Cencus papers ready. 

23d At 8 oclok this morning John Sharp starts as an express with the cencus & other papers to 
Hon G. A. Smith. I spent most of the day at home. 

24th John Sharp returns to day. Brought me a letter from [] Hon G. A. Smith. I spent a part of the 
day in the office. We had a hard Snow Storm in the fore part of the day. Peach & Apple trees in 
full bloom. Snow soon melted. 

25th A vary Cold day. Raw winds. I went into the field planted 15 square rods of potatoes. I was 
quite unwell through the night with pain in my left side. 

26th I am unwell this morning. I am broaken out all over my body. My family think it is the 
measels but I had the measels when I was a boy. I spent a part of the day at the office. During the 
evening I broak out all over with sumthing resembling the Hives. I Just begin to understand what 
it is that is making me sick. I had an ox die on the 2 1 st. It was supposed that he died with poison. 
He was mortified. While assisting in skining him i scratched my wrist sufficient to innoculate 
myself with the poison which is now begining to affect my system. 

27th Sunday I was quite unwell & did not Attend meeting. The cut upon my Ann began to gather 
poison & turn dark. 

28th T I have been a marked victem as an attack for the power of the destroyer from my 
infancy up to the present day. I have faced Accident, misfortune, & apparently death so many 
times & in so many shapes & forms from my childhood through life thus far that it has become a 
proverb with me to say that there has seemed to be two powers constantly watching me & at 


Page261 




work with me one to kill & the other to save me. Thus far the power to save me & preserve my 
life has prevailed. How long I shall be blessed with this preserving power & care time must 
detennin. 

I have never untill now been called upon to war with poison & mortification in my system untill 
now. But I am satisfyed to day that I have this enemy to meet & that to in the worst form. Their is 
but a small chance for a man to live that is innocuiated with poison & mortification by dissecting 
the body of either man or beast. It is much worse than drinking poison or being bit by poisonous 
serpents for it is in a much more deadly fonn. 

Several have died this spring by skining Cattle who have died. All should be more Cautious than 
what I have been in this matter & not run the risk of looseing their lives by trying to save the 
skins of Animals who die with disease. The following Account will show the operation of this 
disease with me from day to day & how near I came of loosing my life. In fact I was ownly saved 
through the power & mercy of God. 

This morning the affected spot upon my wrist had grown about the size of a dime had risen 
above the arm & main [-] about half an inch & turned black as ink. My ann began to swell & 
pain me & I felt its workings through my system. I Called upon President Young & Showed him 
[my] Ann and asked his advice. He counciled me to go to immediately & dense my stomach & 
bowels & poultice my Arm with Onions, Earth, or any thing that would draw it from my system. 
He also advised me to show it to Dr Sprague. I did so & he in addition to what President Young 
had recommended dug me up sum dock Elecompane & Blazing Star roots & advised me to make 
a tea of it & drink it also to make a poultice of it & put it on my Arm. I went immediately home 
& began to put these things into execution for I saw that I had a strong warfare in order to save 
my life. 

29th \*/_ Tuesday [ The asterisk is Woodruffs .] This was a trying day to my life. The poison had 
so circulated through my system that it was affecting my whole body seriously. I became so weak 
I could not stand upon my feet. It took two persons to lead me from the fire to my bed. I could 
not talk no more than if I had been drunk. My stomach & bowels sceased to Act And to Judge 
from outward appearances it seemed as though I should not live 24 hours. My wife & friends 
labored with me through the day faithfully & with Emetics & injections & with raw Onion 
poltices upon my arm I got my whole system in operation before night. 

President Brigham Young called upon me in company with Dr Sprague at about evening I was 
some better than I had been through the day. Brothers Young & Sprague laid hand upon me & 
blessed me. The following is a synopsis of the blessing which He pronounced upon my head 
which I wrote from Memory After my recovery: 

"Brother Wilford in the name of Jesus Christ & by virtue of the Holy priesthood I lay my hands 
upon your head to Bless you And I ask my Father in heaven to stay the disease which is resting 
upon you & to cleanse your Blood & to heal you up & I say in the name of Jesus Christ that you 
shall not die but shall live to finish your work which is appointed you to do upon the Earth. The 


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Adversary has sought many times to destroy your life from the Earth but the Lord has preserved 
you & will preserve you untill your work is done. I feel to say that all is right here. I fell to ask 
the Lord to bless all the means you make use of for your recovary. You shall be healed up from 
this disease & live to enjoy the society of your family & your Children shall grow up around you 
& you shall be a blessing to them. Let your heart be comforted. All shall be well with you. And I 
seal these Blessings upon you in the name of Jesus Christ Amen. 

30th I spent a sick day. I polticed my Ann through the day. It continued to swell to a great extent 
& as the poison was drawn into it from my system it continued to inflame & mortify & it looked 
as though my whole body would soon be mortified. I continued to poltice my ann with raw 
Onions Earth & pounded roots which continued to draw all the impurities of my body into my 
Arm. The poison that was drawn out of my arm would blister my flesh like a hot iron when ever 
it touched it. The flesh turned black & dead & I Could not draw the poison & mortification out of 
my Arm by Onion or Earth poltices. 

So I pounded up some Charcoal fine & mad it wet with the juice of worm wood rag weed & wild 
sage & put it onto my Ann as a poltice & it began to take the mortification poison & Swelling 
out of it. I was vary sick & having a hard warfare between life & death but president Young 
promised me that I should live And I act in faith upon that promise in all that I do. I feel that I 
shall live & not die. 


May 

May 1st This was also an exceding sick day with me. I took a course of medicine to dense my 
stomach. I continued to use Charcoal poltice on my ann which had a good effect. 

2d I felt some better to day yet I was vary sick. I was enable to set up some. I was quite excited in 
the evening. Wilford & Moroni was ploughing in the big field 4 miles from home & about 4 oclk 
in the afternoon one of the horses Came home upon a run with a part of the harness on. We did 
not know but the boys were killed untill we sent a man down into the field with the horse. He 
found the boys not hurt. They had run away with the plough. While Jumping over the bars they 
left the plough sticking in the post, & doubletrees. They broke the whipple trees & harness to 
peaces but I fell thankful that the boys escaped unhurt. 

3d I was some better to day. The pain & inflamation continued to leave my arm. I found the 
Charcoal the most effetual in removing the morti[fi] cation from my arm. I was still confined to 
my bed mostof the time. 

4th Sunday I was confined to my room & not able to get out. I find a good deal of Dead flesh in 
my arm. I am vary weak & feeble. But little strength. 

5th I took another Course of medication to day & had a vary sick day. I suffered much with 
Lobelia in my stomach. My arm is still vary bad. 

6th to 1 1 I have still had a sick week. Vary weak & feble. My arm vary sore & lame And a good 


Page263 




deal of Dead flesh. Dr Sprague out out a portion of it with a penknife but did not get it all out. 

The Eastern Mail came in on the 9th & brought most of the Mail since last Nov. Many thousands 
of letters was received in this City. I got [] two Copies of 3 Numbers of the Monnon. J. M. 
Bernhisel sent me the Baltimore Sun N Y Tribune, pamphlets from the Horticultural & gardners. 
We Also received A letter from the Chief gardner of her Majesty Queen Victoria who wished to 
open a Correspondence with the Horiticultural society of this valley & make an exchange of 
seeds &c. I received 2 letters one from I F Carter & the other From Thompson Woodruff. 

I Attended the prayer Circle on Sunday evening & sat about 2 hours & herd letters read from 
correspond [ents] in various parts of the Earth. We herd many interesting letters from New York, 
Washington Fiverpool Fondon, & other parts of the Earth. 

12th I found I could not get rid of the Dead flesh in my Arm without using sumthing to eat it out 
so I took 20 grains of lunar Costic or nitrat of silver & dissolved it in 2 table spoon full of water 
& washed the edges whare the dead & living flesh meet & it began slowly to separate. 

13th & 14th I am feeling a little better in health. The dead flesh is parting in my arm but I still 
feel week & feeble. 

15th I am able to walk to the historians office. I was called upon to administer to Sister Orson 
Pratt at 1 oclok in the morning. I promised her that she & her Child should do well And in about 
15 minutes she had a daughter bom that weighed 12 lbs. Both Mother & Daughter doing well. 

16th I got all the Dead flesh out of my ann to day so that it is now fast healing up. I had another 
shock of T excitement to day. Wilford took the Horses to carry sum post & poles to my pasture 
with the running gears. While Coming home my new horse started suddenly into a ran. Wilford 
Could not hold them. They ran three blocks with him & while turning the comer they turned the 
hind wheels three times over with Wilford Siting upon the Exeltree. The Horses continued to run 
with the fore wheels untill they mn against the fence. Wilford was stunned & picked up for dead 
but He soon came to & finally led one of the Horses home & a man rode home the other. Wilford 
was hurt in one leg & badly jared in the head but He has a comfortable nights rest. I fell thankful 
that He was not Killed. 

17th I feel better to day than I have since I have been sick. My Arm is fast healing up. I spent 
most of the day in writing. It has been vary warm to day. We have had more rain this spring than 
during any spring since I have been in the valley. 

18th Sunday I attended meeting in the Tabernacle it being the first time I have been out since I 
have been sick. John Young preached. I attended the prayer Circle in the evening. I herd a 
number of letters read. 

19, 20, & 21 I spent the time in the Endowment House except the 191 spent at home. 

22d } } I wrote 6 letters to Father Carter I/us F Carter Freedom & Shuah Moulton. Luther & 


Page264 




Rhoda Scammans Ozem Woodruff & Ozem Thompson Woodruff. 

23d I spent this day in the Endowment House. 

24th I spent the day at home. 

25th Sunday I attended meeting in the Bowery. P. P. Pratt preached. Was followed by Father 
Morley & President Young. In the afternoon A Lyman & Joseph Young preached. I attended the 
prayer Circle. 

26th The Calafornia Mail Came in & brought me 2 letters from [] J. M. Bemhisel & 5 standards 
& 8 mormons. 

^ 27 I wrote J. M. Bemhisel A letter on family affairs my sickness &c. 

28th I spent the day at the Historians office writing. 

29th } } I spent the day at the Historians office writing to correspondance. I wrote a Letter to Sir 
Wm Jackson Hooker Director Royal Gardens kew London In answer to a letter from him wishing 
to open correspondence with us in order to get an exchange of seed, flours, herbs, or any thing 
that grows in our Territory. I also wrote Letters to Honrs. J. M. Bemhisel, John Taylor, G A 
Smith, Erastus Snow, The Western Standard, C. C. Rich & O. Pratt & A. Bablam. 

30th I read to President Young the Letter we received from Sir William Jackson Hooper. He 
requested us to write an answer. Thought we had better get Brother Sprague & Phineas Young 
should bring us flowers & we should forward him seeds &c. 

3 1st I arose at 1 oclok watered my Garden till 4 oclok then rode down to my pasture. Returned 
home went to office at 1 1 oclok & spent the day in writing. 

June 

June 1st Sunday President Young is 55 years old to day. We met in the Bowery. Leonard I Smith 
returned missionary from South Africa Preached in the morning. Was followed By Brother 
Kimball. In the afternoon Brother Grant spoke followed by Presidents Kimball & Young. In 
consequence of the water failing President Young wished all the able bodied men in the city to 
go immediately to work & finish the canal to bring big cotton wood creek to water the 5 Acre 
lots. He requested the Bishops of each ward to stand up & all the men of the ward that could go 
to dig on it and 333 names were obtained. The 14 ward had the most men offered to go of any 
ward in the city. They obtained at their evening meeting 45 names. 

I attended the prayer circle in the evening. The subject of the kansas question was spoken of. W. 
Woodruff asked B Young President Young if He remembered his dream that he had several 
Years since. He said [he] did not recollect it. He said several years since that He dreamed he saw 
two armies met. One came from the south & another from the East & met & fought & as fast as 
they were killed they continued to have new recruits from the East & South & I Wilford 


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Woodruff testify that I herd President Young relate this dream several years ago but cannot state 
the Date. 

2 The mail started out this morning for the East. President Young rode to the cotton wood Canal 
to lay out the work to bring the water to this City. He was followed by hundreds of men who go 
to labour on the canal to bring the water out to this City for it is evident that if the water is not 
brought that many of our Crops will be destroyed for it is now vary hot & dry. 

3d I spent the day on my farm in the big field opening ditches to prepare for wattering. I found 
my Crops drying up vary much. 

4th I spent the day watering my wheat. I was vary weary at night. The weather is vary hot & dry 
& much grain is suffering for the want of water. 

5th The Eastern mail has finally arived after looseing 3 bags of Mail matter in the Webber river. I 
spent the day ploughing & hoeing potatoes. My Hiered man went onto the Canal to work. 

6th I spent this day in the Historians office reading History. 

7th I spent this day in the Historians office. 

8th Sunday I spent the day at home but attended the prayer meeting in the evening. 

9th I spent the day at the office on the History all day. 

101 spent the day irrigating land. 

Ill spent the forenoon irrigating my City lots. Called at the office in the evening. 

121 spent this day making bridge & opening water Ditch in the 5 Acre lots. 

131 spent the day in the office reading history. 

14th I spent the day in the office. 

15 Sunday I attended meeting in the Tabernacle & I heard President Young Preach all day. He 
preached two vary interesting discourses. I attended prayer meeting in the evening. 

16 & 171 spent the time in the office reading History. 

18th I went into the field. Spent the forepart of the day pulling weeds the afternoon in the office. 

19 ? * Watered garden in the morning. Paid Territory & County tax $46.98. Paid City tax 23.50. 
Went into the office at 9 oclok. Spent the day in the office. 

20th I commenced watering land at 6 oclok in the big field & worked hard for 24 hours through 
the day & night. I was vary weary in the morning. 

2 1st I spent most of the day at home. I was vary weary through the day. 


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22d Sunday I spent the fore part of the day at home. Joseph Young preached in the forenoon 
followed by H. C. Kimball. President B ? Young Preached in the afternoon one of the most 
interesting sermons ^ containing the most interesting information light, truth, & knowledge ever 
revealed by God through any Apostle or prophet on earth. G. D Watt & J. V. Long both reported 
the Discourse. 

He said the Devels were cast out of heaven to this earth & they are still around us. Their 
condemnation is that they can never have a tabernacle but they seek to get into the tabernacle of 
all men they can. All good & bad when they die remain here upon Earth the same as the living. 
They are mixed up the same as the living are in a great measure. 

Joseph & Hiram & all the faithful Elders in a great measure are at work to preache the gospel to 
the spirits in prision & prepare them for the coming of Christ. The wicked spirits will get 
together against Joseph there the same as here but neither the Devil nor the wicked have any 
power over him there but he can disp[ers?] them at his will. But those who have shed innocent 
blood or consented thereto will be angels to the Devil untill they are disorganized with the Devil. 
Our Children & friends are all with us or near us. Many interesting thing were said. We are now 
in eternity as much as we ever will be. 

I attended the prayer meeting in the evening. Herd 5 letters read from Lyman Wight to Father 
Porter. The subject of the day was spoken of by President Young. J. M. Grant preached at East 
Webber Fort all day. Taught them to keep Clean & set out trees &c. 

23d I spent most of the day in the office. I watered my garden through the night. Was weary. In 
the morning I took Brother Hodge statement of the body guard of Joseph & names. 

24th k I spent the day in the office. Brother Bullock showed the papers he had Collected & 
Journals in the secretary since he had been a Clerk to the Church which was a great amount. I 
have many reflections Concerning President Young. We find a great Difficulty in writing the 
History of Joseph esspecially During the last few days of his life as no one kept a Journal of the 
same except Dr Richards wrote some but Died before the History was written out. I have a great 
Desire to have President Youngs Daily History written so that all things may be plain to the 
future Historian. 

We have vary hot dry weather. The Church or inhabitants of this City have laboured hard for 3 
weeks to bring the water of the big Cotton wood to this City. President Young has spent much of 
his time during the last 3 weeks on the Canal. 

President Young said to me that G. A. Smith said in speaking of the Church History in future that 
it would be the History of the Church & not of a man. I said vary well we could not write the 
History of the Church without writing the History of the prophet & President of the Church. 
President Young conversed freely upon the subject. I inquired of the clerks of the presidents 
office what they had written concerning him daily. They read some to me. I do not think it is 


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sufficently full. J. M. Grant went to Ogden. 

25th Presidents Young & Kimball went on board /to the Island in their carriage/. The [Timely?] 
Gull a new boat built at Jordon Bridge was taken down the Jordan & into the Great Salt Lake for 
a voyage to the Island. 

1 spent the fore part of the day in the office. I attended the meeting of [the] Agricultural Society at 

2 oclok in the Bowery. President Hunter two directors, some 25 of the awarding committees 
including 5 Ladies were present. The fruit committee examined the currants in the gardens of W 
Woodruff, A Carrington John Nebeker & Edwin Hunter. J M Grant went North. P. P. Pratt 
returned from his mission South in good health. He had been as far as Washington County. 

26 Strong south wind Ther 95 at 1 PM. I spent the day reading History. Presidents Young & 
Kimball spent the day on the Island among the stock. The Church has some 3000 Horses on the 
Island & other stock. Traveled 7 miles & back. I spent the day in the office reading History. 

27th I spent the day reading History. Presidents Young & Kimball remained in Camp on [the?] 
Island. J. M. Grant returned to this City from the North. 

28 I spent the day in the Historians office or the forenoon. Presidents Young & Kimball returned 
home to day. I had an interview with Brother Grant. Invited him to call upon us at the office & 
give us any items he wished us to record in the History. I called upon President Young. He gave 
me an account of his Journey to the Island. 

While I was at the office the Brethren from Sanpete arrived with 311 Tithing sheep from Manti 
& other settlements brought by Warren C Snow Bishop of Manti. They arived at 4 oclok. Bishop 
Snow reports that Arropeen is living 12 miles south of Manti & feels well but has a hard time to 
keep his people right. While trying to get some of them to give up stolen Horses & cattle several 
of them made an attack upon him & injoured his breast which has made him sick for 2 weeks. 

Dr Hurt has 160 acres of wheat in. 80 Acres of it they cannot get water upon it so it will be lost. 
Arropeen has Delivered up 17 Head of Horses which Tintics band had stollen. Tintick who has 
stollen so many horses & cattle & killed so many men has sent word that he wants to come in. 
Will give up what he has left. Wishes to know if we are mad. Presidet Young will make him no 
promises but thi nk s he deserves to die. Kanosh has been kicked by a wicked horse. Has 3 ribs 
broke. He shot the Horse dead. 

I called upon Presidet H. C. Kimball & he took me all through his [] house & garden. Was 
building a storehouse of Cobblestone & Cement. Showed me his stone wall. Has built 200 rods 
at $20 dollars a rod. I visited his private room built 16 feet squair done off vary neatly. The 
Eastern Mail arived at 6 ock. Brought me I Letter from J M Bernhisel & many papers. I spent the 
evening looking over the mail. 

f 29 Sunday I wrote to our correspondents from the Historians office to J. M. Bernhisel A. O. 
Smoot G. A. Smith J Taylor The Mormon & Lumanary & Richard R. Hopkins. I attended 


Page268 




meeting in the afternoon. P. P. Pratt & A Lyman preached in the forenoon & J M Grant & H C 
Kimball in the afternoon. I Attended a prayer meeting in the evening & heard letters read from 
James H. Hart F D Richards J Taylor J M Bemhisel G A. Smith J L Haywood [Israel?] Bullock 
& 2 from Wm H Kimball. 

Monday 30th Wrote 8 letters to correspondents as named under the 29th which is a mistake in 
date. I watered my wheat through the day & night. Presidet Young was at home all day writing to 
correspondents. H. C. Kimball was at home dealing out flour to the poor. J M Grant was at home. 

July 

July 1st I returned from the field this morning. Feel quite an attack of the Rheumatism from 
being with wet feet & in the cold. I spent the afternoon in the Office. Presidet Young spent the 
day at home at the office business. H C Kimball spent the day at home at work upon his 
storehouse. 

2d [] I received a letter from Mrs White on Rhachael Robinson at the point of the Mountain 
concerning her rights there. I read it to Presidet Young. He said that the church had reserved one 
mile East & 2 miles west of the rock for church purposes a bathing esstablishment &c. 

I spent the day in the office except an hour with the presidet in the morning. He rode to his mill. 
A Lyman was with the presidet in the morning. H. C. Kimball spent the day at home. 

P P. Pratt asked Presidet Young what He should do with regard to tithing. Said he had been 
travelling & preaching a good deal & had not paid any tithing. Presidet Young Said the Law of 
tithing reached evry man. He should pay his tithing if he had to have five times as much from the 
tithing office in order to live & all that he had from the tithing office should be charged to him & 
he should Consecrate what he had to the Church. He said that he should consecrate what he had 
to the Church that his children when he was dead should not squander his property & go to Hell 
upon it. 

I attended the Agricultural meeting at 7 oclk. 

3d I spent the day in the office. Presidet Young spent most of the day at home. He rode out 
towards evening. Presidet Kimball spent the day at home. 

July 4th Independance Their was quite a /military/ display in the City of the great Salt Lake 
during this day in celebration of the Anaversary of the American Independance. The fireing of 
cannon ringing of Bells, display of flags, an oration from Gov Young & toasts were among the 
scenes of the day. A Ball in the social Hall & through the various wards during the evening was 
manifest. The Accounts of this days Celebration will be found in the Deseret News of July 9th. 

5th I spent most of the day at the office. Presidet Young went up City Creek Canyon. H.C. 
Kimball at home. 


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6th Sunday I had a severe attact of the Rheumatism & did not attend meeting. Presidet Young 
preached in the morning & A Lyman in the afternoon. I attended the prayer meeting in the 
evening. Was vary lame. I was Called upon in company with A Lyman to Administer to Sister 
Mary Pratt who had been in labour all day. I was mouth. I promised her all should be well with 
her & her Child. In 15 minuts she had a fine boy born. 

7th I was quite lame all day. I rode down to the grass lot. Spent the afternoon in the office. 
Presidet Young was at home & H. C. Kimball was at home building a store house. 

8th I was vary lame & spent the fore part of the day at home & the afternoon at the office. I 
visited a peace of Australia wheat or barley in the garden of sister Rich. She gave me a few heads 
of it & I sowed a part of it in my garden. It is a vary fine grain. President Young has gone to big 
Cotton wood Canyon so reported to make preparation for the 24 July. H. C. Kimball is at home at 
work on his store house. 

9th I am still quite lame. I spent most of the day at the office. President Young Returned from 
Cottonwood canyon at 6 oclock. H. C. Kimball was at home at work. Brother A Lyman called in 
the office in the morning. 

10th I am some better this morning. I Conversed with Brother Wm. Carter Concerning smoot in 
wheat. He says there is a good deal of smot in the wheat in the big field this season. He says there 
is smot in the wheat which has not been watered & also that which was watered in the blow 
unless it was well soaked is quite smutty. Whare wheat was well soaked with water is free from 
smut. I spent most of the day at the office. 

1 1th ^ I am still quite lame. I spent the day at the office. I called upon President Young. Read a 
peace of History on Book E-l page 1681-2 concerning Hyram leading this Church & tracing the 
aaronic Priesthood. It was in detached sentences. President Young thought it was not essential to 
be inserted in the History & had better be omitted. He spoke of the peace of History published in 
the News Vol VI No 18 Concerning Josephs words upon South Carolinia. He wished it not 
published. 

H C Kimball was at home. D H. Wells was in the office in the afternoon. My man commenced 
carting hay to day. 

12th I spent most of the day at home watering & pitching Hay & was puite sick. Presidents 
Young went East in his Carriage this Morning President Kimball was at home. 

13th Sunday I spent the fore part of the day at home & the afternoon at meeting. J M Barlow 
spoke for a short time. Was followed By Br Kimball who dwelt upon a great variety of subjects. 

President Young Preached. Spoke upon the sanctification & Holiness of the saints their final 
exhaltation & the spirits in the Eternal world that were to Come & take tabernacles. The scene of 
this Earth would not be wound up untill the last spirit had come & taken a body on the Earth & 


Page270 




inasmuch as the Gentiles do not wish Child [ren] but use evry exhertion to stop having progeny I 
pray God they may be prospered in their desires untill their seed is dryed up & that those spirits 
who have not taken bodies may come through the linage of the Saints. I attended the prayer 
meeting in the evening. 

14th I spent the fore part of the day in the office. Called upon President Young at 10 oclok. Read 
History till 1 oclok. He then Dined called at the Historians office at 3 oclok & read 2 hours. We 
have revized about 50 pages to day. The President became weary & we closed & walked to the 
stray pen to see about 50 head of stray cattle brought in to day. 

15th I spent the day in the office. President Young sat in our office during the afternoon & herd 
History read. President Kimball also came in & soon J M Grant Having Just returned from his 
Journey at Fillmore. Had been absent about 15 days. Said the Crops were good south. He came 
into the office & all the presidency sat for an hour together & herd History read. 

16th President B Young bought 33 Head of stray Cattle at auction. Paid $700 at $21.21 cts cash. I 
spent most of the day at the office. He called into the office & heard History read for about 2 
Hours. 

17th In company with Professor Carrington Elders S Richards & Joseph Cain I rode to 
Farmington to see McCormic's reaper operate. We found it operated Extremely well. We found 
the reaper would Cut all the grain & gather it & scearsly leave a head of grain. It will cut about 
12 Acres a day. 

We found the crops good North. Most of the fields were ripe & the people were harvesting. We 
found a great quantity of weeds in the wheat fields & stacks. A good deal of Hay put up & many 
of the stacks were vary poorly put up. We returned home at about 7 ok. Had a pleasant ride. 
Distance of the day 30 miles. 

18th In Company with Elders J. C. Little J. W. Cummings & Claudius V Spencer I left home at 9 
oclok to visit rush valley. We rode to the point of the mountain watered & fed. I saw my Cattle. 
We then rode to E. T. city stoped at Brother Maughn’s a short time then rode to Bishop 
Roberr[ies?] [and] took Dinner. Brother Ro wherry took his horses & went with us to Rush vally. 
We rode to Toille City & spent the night. 30 miles. 

19th We started at 5 oclok & rode into Rush valley. We saw a large smoke. Thought it to be 
Johnsons settlement. When we came in sight we found it to be the government Barracks on fire. 

It looked as though it had been on fire 12 or 24 hours. Evry thing was burnt down the shantis 
Carrolls &c. We saw some Indians before we got there. It was supposed the Indians set it on fire. 
We examined the Lake, or slew, the grass & valley as far as we had time. 

We at first Could not find Dr Johnson & his Company. We finally found a road & followed it 
over a ridge of Cedars near to the Mountain whare the Creek comes out of the Mountain forming 
a small valley. Here we found Dr Johnson with a small company scattered up & down this Creek 


Page271 




with about half a dozen houses about 30 or 40 rods apart in a dangerous position. Half a Dozen 
indians mite Come & scalp the whole settlement. We called upon Dr Johnson. He went with us 
through the settlement. We found some 75 Acres under improvement. 

We called the people together & organized them by Appointing Luke Johnson President of the 
Branch. Carried by all except Robert Colwell who voted against it. We advised them to go to & 
fort up & bring their Houses together as they were in danger of being killed. Resolved that 
Wilford Woodruff stick the stake for a fort. He told them to fort on a knowl whare there was a 
spring & have the Spring in the fort. 

We then left them at half past 4 oclok. We left for Toille City. Arived at 9 oclock & spent the 
night at Brother Alfred Lees. Distance of the day 30 miles. 

20th I was quite sick this morning. We started before breakfast at 5 oclok & rode to Bishop 
Rowberry took breakfast then rode to the Black rock. Fed Horses then rode to Great Salt Lake 
City & arived at 1/2 past 4 oclok & spent the night at home. Distance of the day 30. 

21st I had an interview with Presidet B. Young. I spent the day in the office. 

22d } I wrote letters to John Luce, to A. Carrington, to Mrs Cunningham, to Sister Browet total 4 
letters. I spent the day in the office. President Young started this afternoon for big Cotton wood 
Canyon Also H. C. Kimball. J. M. Grant is sick. 

23 & 24 Presidents Young Kimball & Grant & a large Company of saints went to the Lake in big 
Cotton wood Canyon to celebrate the 24th of July. The account is published in the Deseret News 
of July 30. 1 was lame with the Rheumatism. My men are getting up my Hay. 

25 The Presidency & saints returned from the Cotton wood Canyon. I spent the day at home. 

26th I spent this day in the Harvest field. I commenced curing my wheat. The Presidency spent 
the day in the City. 

2?th Sunday I attended meeting at the Tabernacle. Orrin Smith preached in the Morning from 
Connecticut. His fathers name was Joseph Smith. He was followed by Joseph Young. James 
Townsend spoke in the afternoon. I attended prayer meeting in the evening. 

28th I went into the Harvest field with the men & spent the day with them. 

29th I spent the day in my Harvest field. I had a 4 Horse reaper & 8 binders. We cut about 8 
acres. My field ripened vary uneven. Whare we got water on it it was vary good but some of it 
was so short we had to pull it up. The reaper done good work on smooth ground & stout wheat 
but on rough ground short & thin wheat it would run over it. I was vary weary at night. 

30th } } I wrote Letters to J. M. Bemhisel C. C. Rich G. A. Smith the Monnon Lumanary & 
Standard. The Calafornia Mail arived last night [] & brought me a Letter from Brother Edward 
Partridge. I spent most of the day in the office. I was with the president in the Evening. T. L. 


Page272 




Williams called in to see the President with a man driving 4,000 sheep from New Mexico. 
Wished to sell either the sheep or wool. The president did not wish to buy either. President 
Kimball was at home. J. M. Grant called at the office in the evening. 

3 1st I spent the day in the office writing. The Eastern mail came [] in & brought me one letter 
from J. M. Bernhisel and a package of Bills of Laden & goods which he is sending on to me. I 
also got many papers of seeds & newspapers & books Also a letter from G. A. Smith & his 
Journal of travels. J M Grant gave us his Account of his trip to Filmore. 

August 

Aug 1st I spent a part of this day in my orchard. Brother Oliphant put in 101 Apple & Apricott 
buds into my orchard. Most of them were from the States. Choise Apples. The remainder of the 
day I spent in the office. J. M. Grant was with us in the office. 

2d I spent this day in my Harvest field pulling wheat for it was so short 1 Could not Cradle it. 

3d Sunday 1 attended meeting in the afternoon & evening. J. M. Grant spoke upon clenliness 
followed by H. C. Kimball & B Young. 

4th 1 spent the fore part of the Day obtaining grafts & puting in to my orchard. Br Nebeker put 
them [in] for me. He put in 90 buds. Most of them were Choice fruit from the states. The 
remainder of the day was spent in the office. 

We learned soon after ariving at the office that one of our clerks viz that Jonathan Grimshaw was 
about to leave us for England. Could not stand the hard times & did not know whether 
Mormonism was true or not. So he is going home but he has taken a vary honorable Course in all 
his business & dealings]. 

1 learned from the New York Herald of June 24 1856 '? that James J Strang was shot by 2 men 
who had been his own party. One ball lodged in the Head. Went in near the nose & the other in 
the spine of the back. 

Also during the Evening there was a row in our street & one of the surveyors a pole was nearly 
killed. 

5th 1 spent the day in the office except 1 hour in President Youngs office. He was about home. 1 
put into my orchard one tree of buds of president Youngs Yellow Peach. 

6th 1 put /into my trees/ about 50 buds of Carringtons large Early white & late white preserve 
peach. 

1 spent the day in the office. President Young was with us 3 1/4 hours in hearing history read. He 
asked if there had been any note made of his meeting in Nauvoo at Josephs house at the time 
Hiram had preached the Book of Mormon & Doctrins & Covenants as the standard while 1 took 
the ground that they were of no account to us without a living prophet & revelation. 1 told him we 


Page273 




would examine & see. 


7th I was quite sick through the night & day with the bilious Cholic. I spent the day in the office 
reading History. President Young rode out some during the day President Kimball Called in the 
office & spent a short time with us. He said he told Brother G. A Smith to give me credit in the 
history what he prints in the History. He wished the history to be continued as the history of 
Brigham Young & would show the history of those that were with them. 

8th I spent the day in the office reading History & looking over Congressanal Reports. I made an 
Index of part 1 & 2 to 3 of Messages & Documents & of Financial Reports Concerning Utah & 
put it in the front of each book for a refference. Presidet B. Young went to big Cottonwood 
Canyoun. Heber C. Cimball [ Kimball ] was at home laying on Joist in his new building. In 
company with Thomas Bullock I laid hands upon Sister Agathy Pratt while in labour I promised 
her that all should be well with her & her Child. She had a Daughter in 15 minutes after. 

9th I arived at the office at 10 oclok. President Young was there. We spent the fore part of the 
day reading History. A good deal of it was taken from My Journals. President Young said I knew 
while in England by Revelation that as we now are God wenoe wenee has been and as he is we 
shall be if faithful. 

10th Sunday I attended at the tabernacle morning & afternoon prayer Circle at 4 oclok. 14th ward 
Meeting at 6 oclock. I spoke upon Home manufactur[ing] & carrying out the council of the 
presidency. Gilbert Clements preached in the morning upon Home Manufacturing followed by 
Presidet Young. Br F Kesler spoke in the afternoon followed by J. M. Grant & H. C. Kimball. 

We had a spirited Meeting. Through the day a Company of men [were] Called upon to go on 
Missions to Europe & to go with Brother Blair West on an exploring tour. Elder Thomas Bullock 
our Chief Clerk in the Historians office [ ]. 

ill put in 28 Apricott buds this morning into plum & peach stocks. 

I spent the day in the office. The First Presidency B. Young H. C. Kimball & J. M. Grant spent 
the afternoon with us to day in hearing the minutes of the April Conference of 1 844 read, the last 
conference the 12 ever spent with the prophet Joseph before his death. 

12th I spent the day in hearing the church History read to Presidets B Young H C Kimball & J M. 
Grant. D. H. Wells was also present. We read through the 22nd of June. 

13th * Presidents B Young H C Kimball J. M. Grant & D H Wells spent the day in the office 
reading History. We finished up to the [-] death of Joseph in Carthage Jail. The brethren felt full 
& felt that they had heard enough for one day. We all dined with President Kimball viz the 
Presidency & Wells & myself. 

I attended the 14 ward meeting of Agricultural society & organized an auzilary branch of the 
Agricultural & manufacturing society. Appointed Bishop Hoagland President & C. H. Basset 
John R. Winder D. Candland & G Clements Directors. 


Page274 




Dr Luke Johnson Called upon me in the evening & conversed upon affairs in Rush valley. 

14th I spent the day in the office. President Young spent the day at home. President Kimball was 
also at home Also President Grant. He called in the office. Spoke his views concerning some 
items of Markhams statement concerning Josephs remarks in Jail. 

My family were in the field gleaning wheat & have been for the last week most of them. We are 
trying to save all the wheat that we have grown so that nothing be lost. 

I met in council with J C Little Cummings & L Johnson concerning matters in Rush Valley. We 
Concluded to survey it & controll matters there according to the Charter given us. 

15th President Young rode up City Creek Canyon in the morning. Spent the day in the office 
reading History. I read an Article in the work Farmer concerning the Cultivation of the Black 
bury esspecially the Lawton blackbury the best in the known world. They measure 3 or 4 inches 
in Circumferance & more than 600 hurries have been raised on the laterals of a single stem. Can 
we not get someone in the states to send us some of the roots or seeds? This berry was named 
after Mr Lawton by the American Institute of New York as he was the man who first found it by 
the rode side or in his field. Whare it originated no one knows. 

We had a vary hard shower of rain & hail in the afternoon Presidents Young & Kimball came in 
& we red History to them & D. H. Wells. Mrs Woodruff & Phebe & Susan spent the night in the 
harvest field or about it also Father Woodruff. They got thoroughly soaked with rain. 

16th We had a vary hard rain through the forenoon. 1 went into the field in the forenoon after my 
Family. We all got vary wet. 1 went to the office in the afternoon. President Young went North to 
day to Fannington accompanied by Presidents Kimball & Grant & profesor Carrington who took 
minutes of the Journey. They attended a meeting of the Citizens upon the subject of takeing out 
the webber river. 

17th Sunday 1 spent the forenoon at home & afternoon at meeting & evening in the prayer Circle. 
President Young preached in the Morning in a vary Edifying manner & Phileman Merrill & S 
Woolley in the afternoon in a vary spirited manner. 

18th 1 Called upon President Young in the morning. Made some inquiries about his trip to 
Farmington on Saturday. Presidents Young & Kimball Called upon us in the office in the 
Afternoon & we finished up the History of Joseph Smith & we took down an account of Brigham 
Young Father & family & Grand Father & Mother &c. 1 spent the day in the office. 

I had an interview with Brother Day who had just arived from Salmon River Mission. Green 
Taylor had charge of the Company. They came with ox teams 415 miles in 17 days over 24 miles 
each day. They brought in some pickled salmon. There were 13 teams in Company. Most of the 
Crops had been destroyed by the grass hoppers but thought they had raised about 200 bushels of 
wheat 50 of which would be Cut & the remainder would be draged in for seed. See the Letter of 


Page275 




Elder Cummings published Wednesday 20 Aug 18[56?] will give a history of that mission in a 
measure. 

19th I procured A Utah Mountain spider or Tarantula which I preserved in a tin Box to send with 
other insects to Dr Fitch of New York. I spent most of the day in the office. Presidency at home. 

20th I spent the day in the office & picking up matter for History. President Young was about 
home. President Kimball was at work building his wall in front of his store house. 

I had an interview with Brother /Edwards/ who had Just arived from the States in company with 
Brother Whiting. They have been preaching in the Town of Hiram whare Joseph Smith was 
formerly mobed. They have brought some Choice States fruit with them among which is the 
golden sweet & seek no further & English read & white Currant. 

I attended the 14 ward Agricultural & Home Manufacturing meeting. 

21st I spent most of the day in the office. I grafted 8 buds of Dr W Richards Sweet Apple into my 
orchard. 

I had a plesant interview with Dr J. Clinton who has just arived from the states. He gave me an 
account of his travels labours &c. He was with Elder Orson Spencer when He died. He was 
resigned Composed & fell asleep in peace. He talked with Many influential [men] in the states 
upon the subject of our being admitted into the union. The general [feelings?] were to receive us. 

He brought on Machinery to Manufactur p[etal?] pails. Can make 600 per day. His machinery 
Cost $800 & weigh 4,200 lbs. He has also turning laths & Circular saws of many sizes. Going 
immediately into the business. Has also obtained the latest infonnation for making gass & 
Camphene. 

I visited the new Historians office & went over President Youngs garden with his gardner & 
wasp leased with its appearance. He has a great variety of fruit & a large quantity of Grapes 
nearly ripe. 

President Young went North. President Kimball was at home building. J. M. Grant was North on 
his farm. President Young went to Judson Stodards to buy some mules. I took a slack lime sweat 
for my Rheumatism but it did not seem to do me any good. 

22 President Young was at home /called in the office in the afternoon/ to day also Brother 
Kimball & J M Grant was North. I spent the fore part of the day in the office. I went down to my 
held in the evening. Found the Black birds had nearly destroyed my Spanish Com. They destroy 
the Spanish Corn much wors than any other. 

23d I am quite unwell. I spent the day in the office. 

President Young said while conversing upon Eternal improvement that He knew by revelation 
while in England that there would be an Eternal increase in knowledge & as we now are God 


Page276 




once was & as he now is we shall be if we continue faithful. I told this to Br Lorenzo Snow. 
While Conversing with Brother Wilard Richards upon the things of God it came to me that the 
Priesthood is a perfect system of Government. 

Elder Amasa Lyman spent a short time with us in the Office in conversing upon the things of the 
kingdom. President Young came into the office a few moments. President Kimball is about home 
attending to his business. 

President J M Grant Called upon us in the evening. Had just returned from the north. Had 
brought Br Thomas J Thurstin from webber valley whare he has lain almost dead with the 
Rheumatism. One leg is almost perished. He has suffered a great deal. 

24th Sunday Morning I did not attend meeting through the day. I attended meeting in the prayer 
Circle in the evening President Young spoke upon good Manners good breeding & setting a 
better example before the world than they do before us. We read the account of the great Eastern 
ship which is the greatest ship in the world. Brother [Ran? Jay preached in the morning followed 
by Presidet Young & Samuel Woolley. Brother David Fulmer preached in the afternoon. J. M. 
Grant preached in Centrevill in the morning. 

25 I set out a large strawbury bed about 90 feet long & 8 feet wide. I set out 6 rows through the 
length of the bed. I spent most of the day in the office. I received of A Carrington a few buds of 
Choice Apples the strawbury or /reed/ June Eating waldwin, Green winter, 2 lb. Apple & one 
kind not known. I budded them into my apple trees. Broth Daniel Carter brought us one of his 
read Core Mellon. We saved the seeds in 3 seperated parts. The stem Blossom & middle parts 
were each kept separate to try an experiment & planting each severa[te?J [separate] & make a 
report of it. 

Presidents Young & Kimball were at home also Brother Grant. I spent most of the day in the 
office. 

26 Brother Oliphant put in 18 buds of choice fruit into my fruit trees to day. I gave President 
Young 2 water mellons of my garden & some plums. I called upon him & spent some half an 
hour with him. I spent most of the day in the office. President Young went into the City Creek 
Canyon. Presidet Kimball was at home also Presidet Grant. 

27 1 spent most of the day in the office in preparing matter for History. Brother Oliphant put in 
13 spitzenborgh Apple buds into one Apple tree & 8 buds of Almonds into young peach stocks 
for me. Presidet Young was at home also H. C. Kimball & J. M. Grant attending to their daily 
duties. 

28 1 spent most of the day in the attending to the Correspondence. 1 put into my peach Nursery 3 1 
buds of Carringtons 1st & 2d Early peaches & 25 buds into my peach orchard total 56 buds. This 
makes 400 buds I have put in this season including Apples, peaches, Apricotts plums & 

Almonds. 


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Presidet Young & Kimball spent the day at home. During the evening I walked with Presidet 
Young & Kimball to see the New Font for Baptizing in near the Endowment House now being 
built. It was [ ] feet long & [ ] feet wide. 

As we came out of the Temple block we saw the Eastern Mail drive up the earliest arivel we have 
ever had. [] As soon as the Mail was opened I obtained Letters from John M Bernhisel G A Smith 
& I F Carter. Presidet Young got letter from J M Bernhisel GA. Smith John Taylor Wm. Smith 
W I. Appleby J. L. Haywood & many others. I went to his office & Herd D H Wells read till half 
past 10 oclok. We find the Nation in great Confusion & discord & a vary strong feeling against 
Utah. Our Delegates have not yet presented our memorial to congress & probably will not this 
session. The spirit & power of Darkness wickedness & abomination are prevailing to a great 
extent throughout the Nations. 

29th I spent the day in the office writing. 

30th } I wrote letters to J. M. Bernhisel G. A. Smith, Editor of the Monnon, The Lumanary, 

Orson Pratt, Wm. R Prince & to Thompson Woodruff, I. F. Carter. Total 8 letters most of which 
was put in the copying book. It was a vary busy day with us. President Young was at home 
through the day attending to the corresspondence. President Kimball & Grant was at home. 

3 1st Sunday President Young Preached in the morning & prophesied concerning the oposition of 
the gentiles to us. <Said they could not drive us from this valley.> He was still govornor & 
should be untill the Lord saw fit to remove him. He spoke by the spirit & power of God. 

Elder J. Clinton first spoke. Gave an account of his mission & spoke well. He was followed by 
Elder Robbins. He told what he had done then President Young followed him. 

In the Afternoon Amasa Lyman spoke. Was followed by Presidets Heber C. Kimball & J. M. 
Grant. I attended the prayer Circle in the evening. 

Presidet Young went to Feramore Littles to administer to his sick wife. The roof of the 
Blacksmith shop was burned this morning in part. 

September 

Sept 1st I spent the day in the office. President Young was in his office looking over the News 
brought by the Calafomia Mail which arived at 1 1 oclock to day. J. M. Grant was About Home 
also & H C Kimball was at home. The Following is a Copy of the Geneologo of Phebe Whitmore 
Carter Now Phebe Woodruff: 


First Generation 

Daniel Carter born in Newburyport Mass The 2d generation of Carters From 
England 

2d Ezra Carter born Feb. 1734 


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3d Ezra Carter born March AD 1773 

4th generation Phebe Whitmore Carter born March 8th 1807 Married to Wilford 
Woodruff April 13 1837 

5 generation Sarah Emma Woodruff born at Scarborough Maine July 14 1838 
1st Generation Joseph Fabyan & Mary Bracket 

2 Generation Joshua Fabyan Esq born March 1742 Sarah Fabyan bom April 8 
1750 

3 Generation Sarah Fabyan bom April 8th 1775 Married to Ezra Carter oct 2d 
17[.]7 

4 Generation Phebe W Carter born March 8th 1807 Married April 13 1837 

2d I spent the day in the office preparing History. I called upon President Young. Brother 
Kimball & Grant was there reading the Calafornia News. President Young called upon me at the 
office & conversed upon the subject of his history & Journal. R J Campbell T Bullock & Myself 
walked with him to see the Font which is building in the public or temple Block. I then walked 
with him to the New Historians office. 

I then returned to the office & met in Council with the Directors & spent several hours together. 
H. C. Kimball & myself laid hands upon A. Lyman & blessed him. Br Kimball was mouth. 
Blessing is Filed in Historians Office. 

3d I settelled with Hooper & Williams & paid all demands against me. I spent the day in the 
office. Presidet Kimballs granery is 34 by 24 feet laid with Cobblestone & cement. Also 
President Youngs bam is 102 by 60 feet built of the same material. 

4th President Young went up to Feramore Littles. We had a cold rain storm in the valley. Robert 
Scholes & my son Wilford lay on the mountains all night in the Cold. I spent the day in the office 
on the History. } I wrote a letter For the Standard. 

5 th President Young was about home most of the day also presidents Kimball & Grant. Brother 
Grant is doctoring Brother Thurston who is vary much afflicted with the Rheumatism. The 
following remedy is given for a Cure. Take a Cucumber about ripe. Cut out one side. Take the 
seeds out. Put in salt as much as the Juce will dissolve. Put it in an oven & bake it soft. 
Squ[ez?]es it all through a cloth. Rub the Juce on the parts Effected. Annother cure is given. 

Take sh[....]s oil, beefs gall, spirits of Terpentine & High wines mixed together & rub on the 
parts Effected. Is said to be a Cure Also brandy & soap rubed on hot. Also salt peter Oil & 
vinegar mbed on. I have tryed many of these without any good. I spent this day in the office on 
the History. 

6th \ I spent the fore part of the day in the office on History. I met with Parley P. Pratt and a 
company of Missionary in the 70" Hall. P. P. Pratt W Woodruff Joseph Young, Z. Pulsipher A P 
Rockwood & H S Eldridge Blessed 24 Missionaries 20 To England & 4 To the states. We 
ordained 2 Elders & one seventy. 


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W. Woodruff spoke to the Missionaries a short time & exhorted them to keep a Journal of their 
Ministry every day of their lives. He said I would advised you to get all of your blessings written 
& preserve them. In writing your Journal I do not care about your keeping an account of what 
you eat or drink or whare you sleep unless you should be in a Desert, in the wilderness or on a 
mountain & have nothing to Eat. Then if the beast of the field or Fowls or Heaven Come & Feed 
you as the ravens did Elisha then I would want you to record that, but I do feel to Enjoin it upon 
you to make a record of Evry official act of your life. If you baptize, confirm ordain or bless any 
person or administer to the sick write an account of it. If evry man will do this the church can 
write a correct account of it. 

We are not apt to think of the importance of Events as they transpire with us but we feel the 
importance of them afterwards. We are living in one of the most important generations that man 
ever lived on Earth & we should write an account of those important transactions which are 
takeing place before our Eyes in fulfillment of the prophesies & the revelation of God. There is a 
great flood of Revelations fulfilling in our day & as they are transpiring before our eyes we want 
a record made of them. 

If the power & blessings of God are made manifest in your preservation from Danger & death 
you should make a record of it. Keep an account of the dealings of God with you daily. I have 
written all the blessings I have received & I would not take gold for them. I am in the Historians 
office & I find it vary difficult to get or find a record of Events as they [past?] along s[keches?]. 
We want to make the History but if the Elders will take pains to write their Official Acts so the 
Historian can get hold of them it will be a benefit to the Church. The History of this Church will 
remain throught time & In Eternity. * [Asterisks here and after the next paragraph are 
Woodruffs .] 

Elder P. P. Pratt followed & backed up my testimony & said he had reflected upon this subject 
for years to know what a man should write & have Come to the conclusion that a man should 
write his official acts in the priesthood. I have been sorry that I have not kept more of a Journal 
than I have. I wish I had written evry mans name that I had ever baptized or administered unto. It 
is neccesary for us to keep a Journal. 

* W. Woodruff said if their was no other motive in view ownly to have the privilege of reading 
over our Journals & for our Children to read it would pay for the time spent in writing it. 

I left while Elder Pratt was speaking & went to the Council House & attended the Agricultural 
Meeting. See mintues of meeting in the D News of Sept 10th. 

I spent the night at home. Was poorly in health. I suffer much in the rheumatism. 

7th Sunday I did not Attend meeting. P.P. Pratt spoke in the morning upon the Priesthood & 
those who hold the priesthood or the keys thereoff. 

Elders Tripp & Coleborn spoke in the afternoon. Br Trip said He Called upon Mother Smith & 


Page280 




she clasped him in her anns (they were formerly acquainted) & she said My son Enoch I am glad 
to again see you. I am glad to see a man again from Salt Lake. She cryed for Joy, and said she 
had desired for two years to be with the Saints in the vallies of the Mountains but others had 
hindered her. She alluded to Emma. She says give my love to Brigham & Heber & all the 
Faithful Saints for my heart is with them. 

I attended the prayer Circle in the evening. After prayers President B Young J M Grant W. 
Woodruff & all in the prayer Circle laid Hands upon Elder P. P. Pratt Head & blessed him. 
President Young was Mouth. I never heard a better blessing given to man. It was not written at 
the time but afterwords an outline was written by Elder Pratt & filed in the Historians office. 
Elder T. Bullock was also blessed. J M Grant was Mouth. 

President Young remarked at the closed of the blessing that I am going to take a mission. I will 
name it here. I want to go through this Territory with H. C. Kimball & J. M. Grant & I want the 
12 to go. (Brother Parley says Brother Woodruff the Historian is all of the Twelve there is here.) I 
want to go through among this people & preach the gospel to them If I can get red of some of the 
care of my temporal business. I do not feel that I am in the path of my duty to spend so much of 
my time in attending to temporal Matters. I think more of one soul than I do of all that I have 
scraped together. I feel that with the assistance of my brethren that I could make a great wake by 
going through this Territory & preaching the gospel to the people. 

I feel that some men ought never to be called upon to do another days work but they should 
spend there time in preaching the gospel. They should have a man to take care of their Families. 
This should be the case with P P Pratt. He should spend his time preaching. We should devote 
our time to the ministry as far as posable. 

At the close of the meeting I returned home & found sister Sayers & sister Cob at my house. 

Sister Sayers wished me to Bless her as she was going on her mission. I lade hands upon her & 
blessed her as she was going East on her mission. The spirit bore testimony that all should be 
right with her and that she should prosper on her Journey & return in peace. 

8th I visited Brother Lamberts garden & saw his plums. He had red & yellow & they looked vary 
well. I budded a few buds of two kinds of his plums & I put in several buds into my [locus?] of 
his. 

I spent most of the day in the office on history & writing. I wrote } A letter to Dr Asa Fitch of 
New York & sent him a box of insects from Utah including one Tarantula 2 bugs called 
scorpeans Mill[er?] 1 Tobaco worm Miller one small spider several grass hoppers. Dr Asa Fitch, 
Salem Washing County New York is his Address. /<President Young called to see us.>/ 

9th } I wrote a letter to Sir Wm. J. Hooker, Director Royal Gardens Kew London England & sent 
him a tin box solderd up tight. I sent him the Black & yellow Mountain Currant of Mr 
Hemmingways. I sent some service berries. I Also sent one paper of Muskeet seed & one paper 
Mus screw. The Latter I could not describe. The Muskeet grows from 10 to 20 feet high is a 


Page281 




desert shrub grows in dry ground has the Appearance of the black locus has thorns that resemble 
the prickly Ash. 

I spent the day in the office on history. I called upon President Young & asked him if we should 
send out circulars to the bishops for the cencus &c. He said once a year would do. He said we 
might move into our new office tomorrow. 

Wednesday Sept 10th 1856 Elder Thomas Bullock took his leave of us & started upon his 
mission to England. Brother Leo Hawkins went with him over the mountains & spent the night 
with him. 

* We moved the Historians office or all the Contents of it up to the new office opposite 
Presidents Young House. We had 3 large secretaries fdled with Books & papers. They were 6 
feet wide 8 feet high 18 inches deep besides about 20 other secritaries Desks tables &c & about 1 
cord of papers which Dr Willard Richards & G. A. Smith had gathered together. I was vary 
weary at night. President Young rode out. 

1 1th I spent the day in the office regulating books & papers. I rode to the sugar house ward with 
my Family & sister Smoot. I preached in the evening in the school house upon the subject of 
home manufactur. At the close of the meeting I returned home. 8 miles. 

President Young went up City Creek & saw 2 bears. Brother Kesler killed one of them. 

12th I spent the day in the office. The Presidency B Young H. C. Kimball & J. M. Grant called 
into the office & spent some 30 minutes with us. Br Kimball said may the Blessings of God rest 
upon this place from this time Hence forth & forever. We overbaled some papers during the day. 
Dr Richards had taken great pains to lay up files of all papers he could get get red. 

13th Br Kimball said he wanted to know a certain thing so he inquired by the <President Young 
and> HCK. <Both had that gift.> 

I spent the day in the office. I had an interview with Preston Thomas who arived last night from 
Texas. President Young has finished his stone wall to day to the south East Corner. The barn 
which president Kimball is building for president Young 102 by 60 feet built of Cobble stone 
laid in our mountain lime mortar which makes a good cement is getting along well. 

Sunday 14th I was unwell & did not attend meeting. [ ] 

In the Afternoon I attended meeting. President Young gave liberty for any of the saints to confess 
or bear their testimony to the truth. Several of the brethren & sisters spoke. Then President 
Brigham Young arose & delivered unto the saints one of the strongest addresses that was ever 
delivered to this Church & kingdom. There was neither of the regular reporters present but Leo 
Hawkins reported. The Latter Day Saints or people Called Mormons were justly, Strictly & 
strongly chastized & rebuked by President Young for lying, stealing, swareing, commiting 
Adultery, quarelling with Husbands wives & Children & many other Evils. He spoke in the 


Page282 




power of God & the demonstration of the Holy Ghost & his voice & words were like the 
Thunderings of Mount Sina. 

I Attended prayer Circle in the Evening. I officiated in Brother Bullocks place in keeping minutes 
as he had gone on his mission. Sarah was taken sick in the evening. I administered to her by the 
laying on of hands & she recovered. We had a vary strong wind & some rain during the night. 

15^1 met with the brethren in the morning in the Historians office. I told them my feelings were 
to dedicate the office unto the Lord to which they all agreed. So we all knelt down except J. V. 
Long who wrote the prayer. I was mouth. The following was a synopsis of what was spoken in 
the dedication Prayer. There was present Elders Leo Hawkins Robert L. Campbell & J. V. Long 
& W. Woodruff. Prayer offered by W Woodruff: 

O God our Eternal Father we bow before thee this morning beneath this roof for the purpose of 
dedicating this Historians Office unto the Lord our God. We feel this to be our duty as we 
consider that this is a blessing unto us and that we have the privilege of being located in thes 
vallies of the mountains that we can worship thee & build Temples Tabernacles & Cities unto thy 
Holy Name & have none to molest us or make us afraid: and we realize that we have this 
blessing from thine hand O Lord we rejoice in the power of the priesthood which though hast 
given unto thy servants in these vallies of the mountains through the power of which & the mercy 
of God we are protected & preserved from the wickedness & abominations that are in the world. 
We thank thee O Lord that the power of the priesthood & righteousness governs & contrails us & 
predominates in these vallies of the Mountains. For these things we feel to offer up our prayers 
with thanksgiving. 

And inasmuch as we have the privilege of having an Office built for thy servants to occupy while 
writing & keeping a History of thy Church & kingdom upon the Earth in these last days we feel it 
a privilege to bow before before thee & dedicate this house unto the Lord our God even our 
Father in heaven & by virtue of the Holy Priesthood vested in us & in the name of Jesus Christ 
we do dedicate it & Consecrate it unto the Lord our God & we set it apart that it may contain the 
Holy records of the Church & kingdom of God & we ask in the name of Jesus Christ that it may 
be sanctified & Holy unto thy name. 

And we pray that we may be inspired by the gift & power of the Holy Ghost while acting as 
Historians or clerks for the church & may we keep a true & faithful record & History of thy 
Church & kingdom & of thy servants and may it be kept in that way & manner that it may be 
acceptable unto thee O Lord and unto they servants the Presidency of thy Church. 

And we dedicate this House unto the from the Foundation to the top thereof. And we pray that 
the spirit & power of the Devil may never have Dominion over any man or power or place in the 
mind of any man who labours in this room. We pray that thou wilt bless us O Lord with thy holy 
spirit that we may never profane thy name in this house or dishonour the Holy priesthood or 
bring reproach upon thy cause or grieve thy Holy spirit in any way & we ask the to bless us & to 
prosper us in all things. 


Page283 




And we pray that thou wilt bring to our rememberance all things which is necessary to the 
writing of this history & that papers & documents & all things necessary may be brought to us to 
enable to compile a right, usful, & proper History. 

I pray the My Father in Heaven that thou wilt bless these my brethren that are my Companions in 
this office that our hearts may be united in the bonds of the Holy Priesthood according to the 
Anointings & Endowments given unto us that we may be one in spirit, in heart, in faith, [and] 
works as touching the cause & kingdom in which we are ingaged. 

And we ask the to bless all things that pertain to this office & we pray that when thy servants 
Brigham, Heber, & Jedediah may come to visit us that they may feel the spirit of God & the spirit 
of peace resting upon them & that they may feel at home with us while they are beneath this roof 
and may we understand our duties towards them & in all things. We pray thee to hear us in all 
things & to accept of this dedication & we pray thee to bless our households our wives & 
Children from this time forth & forever. 

We pray thee also to bless the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles The Seventies & all the 
Authorities & Quorums of thy Church And bless those of thy servants who are among the 
Nations of the Earth & grant that they may be inspired to send us an account of there works that 
we may be enabled to keep a true & faithful record that when we have gone into the world of 
spirits that the Saints of God may be blessed in reading our record which we have kept. 

We ask the O Lord to grant these our request & every other blessing which thou seest we need 
And in the End of our probation may we be saved in thy kingdom & the glory of our salvation we 
will ascribe to God the Father through Christ our Redeemer even so Amen. 

1 spent the day in the office compiling History. 

16th 1 spent the day in the office on History. 1 attended the meeting of the Female relief society in 
the 14 ward in the evening. 

17th 1 spent this day on History. 

18 19 & 20 1 spent these three day thrashing my wheat with an old Cra[...] threshing Machine. 
They broake out 3 Cast Iron Cogs at one time & 4 iron teeth at another time. Still we so patched 
it up that we were enabled to finish it. 

21st Sunday ^tjJHC. Kimball B. Young J M. Grant, Joseph & John Young preached in the 
forenoon & by the power of the priesthood & the Holy Ghost they sent arrows into the harts of 
men & at the Close of the meeting President Young Called upon all the Congregation who were 
for God & who would covenant to keep his Commandments to rise upon their feet & evry person 
rose in the Congregation. 

* In the Afternoon Leo Hawkins read the 5 chapter of the book of Helaman & the prophesy of 


Page284 




Samuel the Lamanite. Then B. L. Clap spoke a short time. Gave an account of his feelings & his 
travels. 

He was followed by President Brigham Young who spoke in the power of God. Reproved & 
rebuked the sins of the people. He said that the blood of Heifers Calves lambs Doves &c would 
again be offered for certain sins but for some sins no blood would be acceptable except the life & 
blood of the individual. He made the Harts of many tremble. 

He also said that He would give evry woman in Israel 2 weeks to make up their minds whether 
they would stay with their Husbands or be liberated for at the General Conference he would 
liberate evry woman in Zion. Then if they remained with their Husbands they should keep the 
Law of God & not murmer or Complain. 

I attended the prayer Meeting in the evening. D. H. Wells read several letters from Orson Hyde & 
R Kelly who informed us that the gentiles would not be subject to Law but Came against the 
sherriff with arms & swore they would take his life if he attempted to execute the law & sent for 
Council to know what He should do. President Kimball said it is as I expected. President Young 
remarked that it was not a p[..]e that the gentiles would desire. He knew what He would do if He 
was there. He would [..]ab any one of them as often as he caught them out & bring them to Salt 
Lake for trial. 

We walked up to President Youngs barn to see some of his stock. I then returned home & spent 
the night reflecting & dreaming. 

22nd I spent the day in the office on my Journal & History. I attended a meeting of the directors 
of the Home Manufacturing society. 

23d I spent the day compiling History. It rained some in the morning. The Presidency all visited 
the public works. J. M. Grant called upon us during the day. 

24th I spent this day in the office compiling History. 

25th I spent this day in the office Compiling History. I learned that Joshua Whitney had his arm 
tom to pieces in a thrashing machine. 

26th ? ? This was a vary important day in the History of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day 
Saints. Word was brought in last evening that two Companies of the Saints called the Hand Cart 
Companies were camped between the two mountains & would be in to day. So president B. 
Young called together the company of Lancers, Ballows brass band, Accompanied by the 
Nauvoo Brass band, & President Kimball Gen Wells Professor Carrington with many other 
Citizens in Carriages & went out to escort them into the City. 

They past up the Emigration Canyon & met the Company at the foot of the Little mountain on 
the west side of it. Elder Edmond Elsworth Brigham Youngs son in Law was the captain of the 
first Company & Daniel D. MCarthur was the captain of the 2d company. Both Companies 


Page285 




contained 96 Hand Carts 8 waggons and 486 souls. It was a vary effecting meeting. 

Presidents Young & Kimball walked up the mountain through the company saluted the saints 
then organized the company for travelling in to the City. One half of the Company of Lancers 
went in Front followed by the Presidency & citizens then the Marshal of the City J. C. Little then 
the bands of music then Capt Edmund Elsworth with his Hand Cart company then Daniel D. 
MCarthur with his hand Cart Company & the remainder of the Lancers brought up the rear. In 
this way they started for the City. 

Capt Leonard Hardy took Bishop Hunter & myself into a Buggy & we met the company as they 
came into the edge of the City & we fell into the ranks behind the presidency. The people of the 
City gathered on each side of the road & the streets [ ] & it was an Effecting sight to see such 

a strange sight. About 500 people enter the City of the Great salt [Lake] who had traveled on foot 
1,500 miles having drawn there hand Carts all the way. Women Children & old men had drawn 
their bedding clothing & food the whole distance & this company of poor people from England 
had travelled this whole distance in 9 weeks. They were covered with dust & some worn down 
but cheerful. They had beat any horse or Ox team during the time. 

They past up on South Temple Street by President Youngs House the Deseret Store by W 
Woodruffs, down to the grove then down to the public square, there fonned in two lines & 
Camped for the night. No torre can tel No pen Can write, the sensation it created in the reflecting 
mind to behold the scene. 

As soon as they were Camped President Young stood up in his carriage & called upon the 
bishops & multitude who had gathered to see the Hand Cart Company to bring them provision & 
feed them to night to morrow morning & noon & night again & while they stop here. 

I wish you all to tarry here untill you are dismissed & I bless you all in doing good & keeping the 
commandments of God. We then returned to our homes & the bishops & people brought them all 
the provisions that were neccessary. 

Edmund Elsworth saluted his wives & Children as He past his house but did not stop for any 
thing untill his Company was camped. He lead the Hand Cart Company by drawing the front 
Hand Cart with 3 others. It reflected more honour upon him than if he had been mounted upon a 
fine horse decked with gold & silver. The sisters danced to the music as they drew the hand carts 
& walked through the streets. 

27th \ I called upon Presidet Young in the morning. President Young sat & herd the minutes read 
of his sermon also Brother J. M. Grant & Corrected them. President Young said it was thought a 
wonderful [thing] for this Company to walk so far. But take many women that spin as some do & 
their steps Counted & they would travel 30 miles in a day. My Children in ther play some times 
would run enough to make 10 or 15 miles in a day. 

Wells Little & L. W. Hardy [ ]. 


Page286 




Presidet Young said He thought the Hand cart Company had a Better time than the teams had. 
They have not had as hard a time as we had in going to Missouri in 1833. Then I went to 
Missouri stayed in the cholera 15 days then returned to kirtland within three months over 3,000 
miles & walked all the way & lay on the ground evry night. 

But if I had to fit out a company I would have fitted out the Carts different from what they were. 

Soon Came in Lewis Robinson & Ward from Green river. Presidet Young said that 
Washa[peek?] the Indian chief had cut up [the] smoothest bad trick that I ever heard of. So 
Brother Robinson related the circumstances as follows: Washa[peek?] with several other Indians 
came in to his store & ordered him to give them some spirits. He told them He had none to sell. 
They undertook to get it by force & Robinson pulled them out of the Store. He went away & 
soon came back with 100 Indians & pulled Robinson up to the door & told him he must open the 
door & give him some liquor. So they forced him to open the door & deal out Liquor to them. 
The 100 Indians drank 20 gallons & all got drunk but behaved vary well. They offered to pay for 
the Liquor. He has been used to such sprees. Brother Robinson said that if he was to do the same 
over again He should present a pistol to him & try his luck at it. 

Elder Elsworth Came in. President Kimball Came to him & told him to pick him out a family to 
go & stop with him through the winter. Wanted a handy man. He said I have not a handy man in 
my Company but I will pick you out as good one as I Can. 

Mr Dones Came in & gave president Young some Notes against Capt James Brown of some 
$3,000. Had paid some $1,400 in County orders. Asked president Young what He should do. He 
would sell the whole for $1,200 dollars. Presidet Young told him that He was able & as the Lord 
had made him Able the Law should make him willing. He said that He was willing the debt 
should be Collected but did not wish to collect it himself. He said he had trusted him upon the 
Credit of H. S. Eldridge. "It makes me righteously angry to see Elders go out on a mission & 
Come home Merchants get trusted for goods & not pay for them. 

Presidets Young Kimball & Carrington Elsworth & myself rode down to the square to visit the 
Hand Cart Company. They generally looked well & Cheerful. They shook our hands wannly. 
They had a great quantity of provisions in Camp brought in by the people. I laid hands upon one 
brother who was taken sick last night. Presidet Young said the people might have their hand 
Carts after going through the Encampment & Elder Kimball got the family that He spoke for. 

We rode back to the stray pen to look at the Cattle & Mules which the Company had brought in. 
Elder Elsworth pointed out a Mule which he rode after a Buffalo which He had wounded. The 
Mule took right after the buffalo & the Mad wounded Buffaloo turned & took after the Mule & 
they met almost together but the Mule turned & run back so suddenly that He flung Elsworth to 
the ground. The Buffalo plunged at him & Elsworth punched the animal with the muzzle of the 
rifle into the Eye so hard a blow that the Buffalo fell to his knees but rose up & run the other 
way. It broak his rifle. His Mule run 5 miles to Camp which left Elsworth to walk in. 


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Brother George W Bean came in from Los vegus & reported that Johns was getting on well with 
his l[an/ea?]d. 

28th Sunday I attended the meeting. President Young preached in the morning followed By Elder 
Edmund Elsworth & Daniel D Mcarthur. In the Afternoon Elder Oakley Truman Leonard & 
President H C. Kimball. I never heard as strong & powerful sermons ever delivered by the 
presidency of this Church as I have heard of preached from them of Late. 

I attended the prayer meeting in the Evening. B. Young went to Feramore Littles in the 
Cottonwood Canyon & spent the night. 

President Kimball said I have told the people to day of far greater things than drawing hand Carts 
to Zion. Joseph Smith took President Brigham Young & myself to the vary spot In adam Ondi 
Aman whare Adam offered up his first sacrafize on a spot now called Hogback. 

D. H. Wells said I had a dream last night & saw a butchers Cleaver in the Heavens in the East. I 
tried to show it to Bishop Pettigrew & he could not see it. I felt that there was a Strugle near & a 
great Slaughter, & much nearer than the people are aware of. President Kimball said it would be 
better for one half of the people to be cut off than for the rest to suffer as they had done & to go 
through what we would have to. 

At the close of the Council I walked with H. C. Kimball to Presidents Youngs Bam. It contains 
6,130 square feet of ground building by President H. C Kimball. 

29th I Entered many articles for the state Fair. I met with the Nauvoo Legion on Parade. Lieut 
General Wells Addressed the Legion & reproved them sharply for not being more interested in 
the interest of the Legion. He was followed by Col Little A Rockwood & W Woodruff & E D 
Woolley. 

30th } } [] The Calafomia Mail Came in & brought me 1 Letter from C. C. Rich. I wrote Letters 
to the Mormon, the Standard the Lumanary, to Hon’s J. M. Bernhisel & GA. Smith to O Pratt to 
C C Rich Total 7 Letters & spent a part of the day in the fair. 

October 

Oct 1st I met in the State Fair with the board of Directors & as Chairman of the Fruit Comittee in 
awarding premiums. I Preached in the evening to the 13 ward in the Social Hall. Was followed 
by Edmund Elsworth J Gates & E. D. Woolley. The spirit of God was upon us & we talked vary 
plain to the people. 

2d It is fast day in this City & many of the people spent the day in fasting & prayer. The State 
Fair is open to day. President Young & family go through in the Morning. Then it is open to the 
public. 

The following Apples were named by the fruit committe: 


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Nebekers No 5 Nebekers winter. No 7 Spotted Fall, No 3 winter Spot W. Woodruff (large read & 
white) Mountain Beauty, winter Red Stains Deseret Sweet (W Richards) Willard Sweet. 

New names for Peaches: 

B. Youngs Sweet Cling & Tart Cling Tart Fre[sh?] A. Carrington Lemon Cling. 

I passed through the state Fair several times. I attended the ploughing Match at 2 oclok. 9 Men 
entered for ploughing. 3 prizes wer given to J. M. Woolley 1 prize. To B. Adams 2d prize. To 
Wm. Carruth 3d prize. 

W. Woodruff obtained Premiums on the following Articles: 

1 st Premium on wheat $ 1 0 
1st" "Peas 3d Div 
1st "Beet Molasses $1 
1 "On Early Com $2 
2d Premium On squashes $ 1 
2d" "Pumpkins $ 1 
2d" "Beets 2d Div $1 
2d "On Yellow Corn 3d Div 
2d on seedling Apples $5 

There was a large throng visited the fair all day. Their is a vary fine collection of evry department 
almost even beyond our expectations & is vary incourageing in this thing. 

Oct 2d 1856 I met with Presidents B. Young H. C. Kimball & J. M. Grant ^ at the House of the 
Lord at 6 oclok P.M. for the purpose of Dedicating the Baptismal Font which has of Late been 
built on the east side of the House of the Lord. There was also present Besides the Presidency W 
Woodruff E Hunter Joseph Young D H. Wells A Carrington L. W. Hardy J. C. Little & Gilbert 
Clements. 

We went to the Font & knelt down around it & dedicated it unto God. President B. Young called 
upon President Heber C Kimball to be Mouth in the dedication Prayer. The following is a 
synopsis of the dedication Prayer reported by W. Woodruff: 

He Said O God the Eternal Father we bow down before Thee upon this Font which has been 
made by thy servants to baptize thy people in, for the purpose of dedicating it unto the Lord our 
God. We dedicate ourselves before Thee O Lord & we ask the in the name of Jesus Christ to 
forgive us all our sins that we may have Thy Holy Spirit to guide us in all things that we may be 
guided in the ways of the Lord & that we may never do wrong. Look upon us O God that have 
now bowed before thee around this Font & help us to do thy will in all things Acknowledge the 
in all things and honor The & worship Thee at all times. Help us to Honor our Tabernacles that 
we may never disgrace ourselves in any thing. Grant unto us thy Holy spirit that it may quicken 


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our understanding & bring to our understanding rememberance all things which are necessary for 
us in the discharge of our duties. 

We now dedicate this Font unto thee O God. We consecrate it unto thee in the name of Jesus 
Christ. Let thine Angel O Lord touch this water & this Font with his Finger that it may be holy 
unto Thee Lord. May no unclean thing ever enter into this Font to pullute it. 

We dedicate ourselves our wives [ ] Children & all that we have unto the O Lord Our God. 

May we be thine forever & all that we have. 

Now O Lord except of this dedication at our hands and as we go into this water may our sins be 
forgiven & not be remembered against us any more. May we feel the power of God and have 
power to work a great Refermation among this people. And may this people triumph over our 
enemies & may not our enemies ever again have power over us but wilt thou cause thine 
indignation to burn against them that they shall not have any power to do thy people harm. 

Now O Lord look down upon thy servant Brigham & cloth him with thy power that he may know 
the workings of the power of the devel in the Earth & among this people & do thy work. 

We now dedicate this Font to Baptize the Living & the Living for the dead & for evry purpose 
which is necessary to perform the work of the Lord our God, even that the generations which are 
dead & passed away may be saved & that the sins of the Living may be washed away & that the 
sick may be healed of evry infinnety that we may be renewed in body & spirit in all things. 
Except of this dedication at our hands O Lord & hear our prayers and we will give all the glory to 
God our Heavenly Father and we ask it in the name of Jesus Christ Amen. 

After the Font was dedicated President Brigham Young went down into the water in the Font & 
Baptized Presidents Heber C. Kimball & J. M. Grant & he laid his hands upon them & confirmed 
them members in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day saints & blessed them in the name of 
the Lord. He blessed Heber C Kimball & Heber C Kimball was mouth in blessing J. M. Grant. 

President Young said unto Heber C. Kimball Brother Heber Chase In the name of Jesus Christ I 
lay my hands upon your head and I Confirm you to be a member in the Church of Jesus Christ of 
Latter Day Saints & I seal upon you the gift of the Holy Ghost & Eternal life and I ordain & seal 
upon your head to be a prophet, Seer & Revelator in the church & kingdom of God & over the 
house of Israel and I seal upon you all the keys of the Kingdom of God on the Earth that was ever 
sealed upon the head of any man & I seal these blessings upon you in the name of Jesus Christ 
Amen. 

Heber C. Kimball then said to Jedediah M. Grant Brother Jedediah In the name of Jesus Christ 
we lay our hands upon your head & we confirm you to be a member in the Church of Jesus 
Christ of Latter Day Saints & we seal upon you all the keys of the Holy Priesthood even to be 
Prophet seer & Revelator in the Church & kingdom of God & evry blessing which has ever been 
sealed upon you & we seal upon you the gift of the Holy Ghost & we seal you up unto Eternal 


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Life in the name of Jesus Christ Amen. * [Asterisk is Woodruffs .] 

President Brigham Young then Baptized me & all the Presidency laid hands upon me & J. M. 
Grant was mouth in confirming me & said Brother Wilford Woodruff in the name of Jesus Christ 
we lay our hands upon your head & we confirm you to be a member in the Church of Jesus 
Christ of Latter Day Saints & we seal upon your head all the gifts & blessings of the Apostleship 
& priesthood & evry blessing which has ever been sealed upon you in any Temple or place we 
seal & confirm upon you in the name of Jesus Christ & we bless you for your infirmaries & ill 
health & pray that you may be healed & have the gift of writing the truth as a historian & we ask 
our Father in heaven to grant unto you these blessings in the name of Jesus Christ Amen. 

President B. Young then baptized Bishop Edward Hunter & Confirmed him. He was mouth & 
said Brother Edward Hunter we lay our hands upon your head in the name of Jesus Christ & we 
confirm you to be a member in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter day Saints & we seal upon 
you the gifts of the Holy Ghost & the Priesthood & bishopprick & the keyes thereoff and we seal 
upon your head all the gifts Blessings priesthood & power which has been sealed upon you by 
the prophet Joseph or any of the Servants of God & we say that you shall have power to magnify 
your calling as the chief bishop in the Church & Kingdom of God on Earth the spirit & power of 
the Holy Ghost & Revelation shall rest upon you in power & we seal you up unto Eternal Life & 
we seal upon your head evry blessing your heart Can desire in the name of Jesus Christ Amen. 

President Young then baptized the following persons: Joseph Young D. H. Wells A. Carrington 

L. W. Hardy J. C. Little & Gilbert Clements & was mouth in confirming them all except D. H. 
Wells. H.C. Kimball spoke upon his head. This made 10 persons which President Young 
Baptized & confirmed. 

* [ Asterisk is Woodruff's.] Heber C Kimball then baptized President Brigham Young & 
confirmed him & said (J. M. Grant also laid on hands) Brother Brigham Young we lay our hands 
upon your head & confirm you to be a member in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter day Saints 
& we seal upon your head the Holy Priesthood with all the keys powers & blessings appertaining 
thereunto even to be a prophet seer & revelator in the church & kingdom of God & over the 
House of Israel & we seal upon your head all the blessings which were sealed upon you by the 
Prophet Joseph & we say unto you that you shall have power over your Enemies & you shall not 
be slain by them but you shall live to see them overthrown & to see the saints come off victorious 
over there enemies & I seal these blessing upon you in the name of Jesus Christ Amen. 

At the Close of the dedication & baptism I attended meeting with J. M. Grant & other 
Missionaries at the 17th ward. Elder Wallace spoke Johnson spoke to the people followed by J. 

M. Grant who spoke in the spirit & power of God in calling upon the people to repent & refonn. 
He was followed By Gilbert Clements & W. Woodruff who bore testimony to what had been 
said. We had a soul stiring meeting. 

Judson Stodard had his horse run away with him in his buggy & nearly killed him. 


Page291 




3d I spent the day writing & attending the State Fair. President Young Kimball & Grant Attended 
the Fair. 

President Heber C. Kimball rebuked Albert P. Rockwood in the presence of the Saints in the 
Deseret Store for his studidity & folly. Brother Kimball says as I pass by you I cannot even get 
your eye. You do not speak to me. You are as dry as an old Cabage leaf wilted up. You have not 
the spirit of God & you have tryed to ride me for years & If you do not wake up & do your duty I 
will ride you & that to with sharp spurs. I feel to rebuke you in the name of the Lord & Brother 
Woodruff you wright it that it may stand on record against him. 

4 d I spent The Missionaries returned home into this city this evening at 5 minutes past 3 oclok & 
there was great rejoiceing in the city. The company consisted of Joseph A. Young Wm. H. 
Kimball F D. Richards, Daniel Spencer James Ferguson George D Grant N.H. Felt, James 
McGaw, John Vancott C. H. Wheelock Wm C Dunbar & John D. T. MCallister. When 
Presidents Young & Kimball met their sons & Friends with a Harry welcome there were tears of 
Joy shed. After greeting was over they went to their homes. 

5th Sunday All met at the Bowery. The First Presidency 3 of the Twelve & the Missionaries who 
had lately returned took a seat upon the Stand. D Spencer F D Richards & B Young occupied the 
stand in the forenoon. G. D. Grant Wm. H. Kimball Joseph A. Young & others spoke in the 
afternoon. They were full of the spirit & power of God & the Gift of the Holy Ghost. The people 
were edefyed & blessed. 

At the Close of the meeting we repaired to the prayer Circle had prayers then we went unto the 
Font & President Brigham Young went down into the Font of water & baptized men women & 
children of his own family about 75 in number. Then President Heber C. Kimball went down into 
the water & baptized about 75 mostly of his family. Some were of my Family & others of the 
Twelve. Then Lorenzo Young went into the water & baptized about 25 persons making 175 
persons all of which were confirmed under the Hands of H. C. Kimball J. M. Grant W. Woodruff 
Joseph Young J. Vancott & D. H. Wells Confirmed a few of the Last. 

/President Young call[ed] at meeting to day for 60 Teams, 12 tons of Flour, 40 extra teamsters to 
go into the Mountains to fetch in the back emigration./ 

6th Oct Conference met at the Bowery this morning at 10 oclock. There were present Presidents 
B. Young H C. Kimball & J M Grant & W Woodruff L. Snow & F. D. Richards of the Twelve & 
the Missionaries who had just returned home & a vast congregation of people. The full quorums 
of most of the presidencies were full. After singing & prayer President Young said our 
conference is now open & the first business is to gather together the clothing sh[oes?] flour & 
Teams & men & start them into the mountains after the Hand Cart & other Companies who are 
back on the plains. They were below Laramie some of them. There were the following Articles 
brought in to send back to clothe the poor saints who were back on the plains. The Following is a 
list of some of the Articls donated: 


Page292 




26,688 lbs flour 

34 Teams 

37 Bushels onions 

6 Horses 

12 lb meat 

4 waggons 

5 bushels oats 

51 Teamsters 

cash [$?]8 

8 Cloacks 

106 Blankets 

5 1 pair pants 

53 coats 

134 pair boots & shoes 

50 vests 

51 dresses 

29 shalls 

67 Hoods 

72 shirts 

72 pair socks 

174 prs stocking 

14 Sacks 

9 pair Mits 

40 Bundles Clothing 

1 Buffalo robe 

2 Chemises 

2 overshirts 

13 Hats & Caps 

3 Boys suits 

8 pair drawers 

14 Jackets 

12 Bonnetts 

7 shirts 

4 Handkerchiefs 

1 Rug 

1 victorane 

5 [yards?] Linsy 

2 Aprons 

1 pair gloves 



This offering was made By Request of President Brigham Young for the poor. 

President Kimball moved that President Young & Himself & J. M. Grant Should go into the 
mountains to Meet the companies & bring them in. The vote was put to the people but few voted 
for but the great Majority against it. 

President B Young spoke upon the necessity of a refennation among the people. 

President Kimball called upon the blacksmiths in the Congregation to return home to mend their 
waggons & shoe the Horses of the people so they might start back upon their Journey. 

President Kimball then presented the Authorities of the Church to the people all of which were 
voted for & sustained. 

J. M. Grant spoke upon the propriety & importance of evry man having the Holy Ghost upon him 
in all places & times. 

The 18 ward was then Divided & John Sharp was appointed as Bishop to preside over the 20th 
ward. 

President Kimball addressed the people & closed up by moving that Seth Taft be droped from his 
office as Bishop. Carried unanimously. 


Page293 




President Young then said I wish to Fullfill the promise which I made 2 weeks ago. I then told 
the people or the females that I would release them at Conference. I will do so on certain 
conditions & that is that you will appear forthwith at my office & give good & sufficient reasons 
& then marry men that will not have but one wife. 

In the Afternoon the following Elders addressed the Assembly: Elder C. H. Wheelock, James 
Ferguson, Wm. C. Dunbar Elder Bu[n?]kerd & C. G. Webb all spoke in the spirit & power of 
God & there words were sharp & pierceing like the vived lightnings of heaven. President Young 
said that he had never herd any missionaries speak on returning from Missions that He was more 
satisfyed with than with those who have Just returned home though He was as well satisfied with 
the Twelve on their mission to England in 1840. Adjourned till to morrow 9 oclok. * [All three 
asterisks in the 6 October entry are Woodruffs .] 

A Large number of saints assembled in the Tabernacle for a meeting. Elder John Banks opened 
by prayer. I spoke to the people upon the subject of the Hand Cart Companies & the fulfillment 
of prophesy & the necessity of repentance & refermation. J V Long reported. See report. * 

Elder John Banks followed. Related his experience in travelling in the East. His address was 
musing & interesting. President J. M. Grant then Delivered a Brief but powerful address on 
Refennation. Benediction by Elder Edmund Elsworth. 

* At the Close of the meeting I went to the Font & the House of the Lord to assist in baptism & 
confirmation. Elder Franklin D Richards went into the Font & baptized his brethren the 
missionaries who had been with him & their families & Elder Lorenzo Snow & myself 
confirmed them about 65 in number. The spirit of God rested upon us while administering to the 
people. We went diret to the evening meeting as named above. 

7th The Conference was called to order by President Kimball at 9 oclk and he said I want to say a 
word to the Congregation and to all the House of Israel. If you expect to be blessed & have the 
word of God come through his servants let there be peace & silence. Let evry man take his seat & 
set there till the meeting is out & you are dismissed. God says that his house is a house of order 
& not of confusion & let evry man be in silence & the women not one whit behind the men. I will 
inform the Congregation men & women that if there is any one that wishes to go out they had 
better go out now For the policee will be at those gaps & there can none go out when they once 

take their seats & we want the policee if the men that are in the c[ ]es make the noise that they 

did yesterday to just knock them in the head. These are my orders. For men to Come hundreds of 
miles & then to sit & talk & chatter & do their business here at this meeting it is not proper. 

You may say I am severe. I am not half as severe as the Lord wants me to be. I have seen Joseph 
when men were in Council meetings with him & rose to leave, cut them right off from the church 
before they got out of the door. You grieve the spirit tramel the spirit & it is grieved with the 
Confusion & interruption. If you do not believe this, get the spirit of God & come on this stand & 
attempt to talk to this people. The above reported by Lee Hawkins. 


Page294 




After singing & prayer The meeting was addressed by Daniel D Mcarthur James McGaw, Elder 
France, & David Grant, & W C Dunbarson. Then L. W Crandle & D. D. Mcarthur spoke 
followed by a song from Dunbar followed by N.H. Felt with a spirited address Followed with the 
cricket song by J. D. T. Mc'allister. Benediction by D Spencer. 

Met at 2 P.M. President Kimball Called to order after singing & prayer by John Young. The 
meeting was addressed by Elders MCDonald John Young H. W. Church Canute Peterson Wm. 
Bu[llen?] Elder Boley & Edmund Elsworth. They also spoke in the spirit & power of God. John 
Woolley was voted to be bishop in the 9th ward. It was then resolved that the missionaries who 
had just returned to the valley should stop a few days with there families then go through this 
Territory & strengthen there brethren. 

President Kimball spoke a short time. President Young moved that this conference adjourn till 
the 6th day of April 1857. Carried unanimously. 

J M Grant told the Bishops & all men when they got home to live their religion. He exhorted 
them in the spirit & power of God. 

President Young Exhorted the People to listen to what Brother Grant had said & lay it to heart & 
put it in practize & then Blessed the congregation of Saints. Elder Dunbar sung & the Assembly 
was dismissed. 

I met at Early candle light with the seventies & Elders in the Tabernacle. The House was nearly 
Full. The First seven presidents were present with Joseph Young presiding. President Joseph 
Young occupied the fore part of the meeting in transacting the business of the Quorum. 40 
Quorums were called upon & found to be mostly full. President J Young then Called for a 
subscription for the Seventies. He got but Little. 

President J M Grant then arose & said I feel that there are some I 1 J things that greeve me. 
President Young was asked if it would not be well to send the Presidents of the seventies out. He 
said No they would Preach the people to sleep & then to Hell. Now this shows me that the 
Presidents of the seventies the first seven Presidents are asleep and their is sumthing wrong with 
them. If this is the case that they would preach the people to sleep & then to Hell Then this body 
of Counsellors are guilty of Great sins either of omission or Commission, & I would advise 
Joseph Young to cut off his council & drop them & appoint men in his stead who are full of the 
Holy Ghost & will act with him & assist him. 

Now we will take up his Council & look at them. Now here is brother Levi Hancock. Why he 
will fiddle diddle di fiddle diddle do fiddle diddle dum and tweedle diddle ta. Now he might 
preach a month & ther would be no more spirit of God in it than their would be in a Cabbage 
Leaf. Now If you would preach the people to sleep & to Hell you are guilty of some great 
Henious sins either of commission or omission. You have either committed Adultery or some 
other sins & you ought to be droped. 


Page295 




Here is Brother Harriman. Now if you will preach the people to sleep & to Hell you are guilty of 
some great sins either of Commission or Omission have committed Adultery or some great sins 
& you ought to be droped. Brother Harriman might preach a month then you might put it all in 
the Eye of a Cambrick Needle & there would be as much room in it as there would be for a 
bulfrog in the Atlantic ocean. 

Albert P Rockwood if you would preach the people to sleep then to Hell you are asleep dead, & 
guilty of committing Adultery or some great sins. There is no sap in you. You are as dry as an old 
musk rat skin & you ought to be droped. 

And Zerah Pulsipher if He would preach the people to sleep & to Hell you are guilty of some 
abominable sins of commission or omission of committing Adultery or some great sins & ought 
to be droped & I will say the same of Benjamin Clapp & H. S. Eldridge. According to the 
presidents words they are asleep & ought to be droped. 

I think that Brother Joseph ought to Cut them off & prune the trees around him. How can the 
body be kept awake & Healthy when the head is asleep & dead? It has been with great reluctance 
that I have voted for the presidents of the seventies for a long time. And I will say to these 
seventies if your Presidents have gone to sleep dont you go to sleep, but keep awake. If your 
Presidency have committed Adultery & done wrong & committed great sins that will damn them 
dont you do it but wake up. 

Is there any man that is in that Council that has been ordained a councellor to Joseph Young? If 
so I do not know it. But each man was ordained a president & is under as much obligation as 
Joseph Young is to magnify his Calling & do his duty. But they never think of such a thing of 
taking any burthen upon their shoulders but leave it all for Joseph Young to do & he has to drag 
them along. When I vote for Rockwood, Pulsipher, Harriman & Levi Hancock I do it vary 
reluctantly, & I have done so for years & now I want to have you to wake up & do yor duty. 

There is no life spirit sap or Juce in Hancok, Harriman, Pulsipher, & Rockwoods preaching no 
more than there is in an old mummy. These are the kind of men that are your presidents And the 
seventies as a body are as dry & dead as an old chip & you are as tight as the bark of a tree. It is 
the duty of the seventies to sustain Brother Joseph Young to furnish him with food, fuel & 
rament that He may give himself to the work of the ministry. 

Who has esstablished the president to take men who were in the battalion to be presidents? I 
would take men who were full of the Holy Ghost. I do not Care whare the Hell they come from. 
This is what I want. I say again the Presidents of the seventies are asleep and if they do not wake 
up they should be Cut off. He spoke in the power of God & the gift of the Holy Ghost. 

Levi Hancok followed him & said He had not commit Adultery. He never Courted any woman 
but his wife & she Courted him. He justified himself in a measure. He was followed by Benjamin 
Clap who said He had not committed adultery & if he had gone to sleep he had done it since he 
came here for he was not asleep when he came home. He intended to serve God with all his heart 


Page296 




& was willing to go through this territory with his pack upon his back & preach the gospel. A. P. 
Rockwood received the chastizement & ment to repent & go into the waters of Baptism as soon 
as He got a chance. 

J. M. Grant asked me if I had not sumthing to say that the seventies were under the Twelve. I told 
him I would like to bear testimony to what He had said. I Arose & said to the people that I 
wished them not to trifle with the teachings of President Grant for what He had said was true. He 
had shot arrows of the Almighty among the people and if they did not wake up & take the 
warning & repent of their sins for the day has come when it will not do to trifle with the Things 
of God nor with his servants who hold the keys of the kingdom & are called to lead us \sic\. I 
called upon the Presidents of the seventies & all the seventies to begin this hour to call upon God 
for the Holy spirit & advised them to stop work & give themselves to prayer untill they could get 
the spirit of God. I had the spirit of God in speaking unto the people. I told them I had recorded 
what Elder Grant had said & I should keep it on record. I was followed by Joseph Young who 
spoke well & in a good spirit. 

} 8th I spent most of the day in the office. President Young called upon me in the evening & 
spent about half an hour with me. It was a vary cold windy rainy day. Considerable snow fell 
upon the mountains. I spent the evening at home. I wrote a Letter to Brother James Bosnell. 

9th I called upon President Young at his office found also H C Kimball J M Grant D H Wells A. 
Carrington N. V. Jones & others. I herd a difficulty between N V. Jones & Bringhurst stated 
before the presidency which resulted in sustaining Elder Jones & Cutting off Elder Bringhurst or 
disfel[low]shiping him. President Young had sent Elder Jones to make led & Elder Bringhurst 
had not sustained him but opposed him. F D Richards & company called upon the President to 
settle all their matters as Agents for the Church abroad. 

Presidents Kimball & J. M. Grant spent the remainder of the day in the House of the Lord. I spent 
most of the day in the office. 

Some remark were made last Sunday night relative to the family of Joseph Smith. President 
Young said I have no fears with regard to the Children of Joseph. God will take care of them & 
all will be right. 

Remarks by W W. We have passed through another Conference & such an won I never saw 
before. The spirit of God is like a flame among the Leaders of this people & they are throwing 
the arrows of the Almighty among the people. J. M. Grant is pruning with a sharp two edged 
sword & calling loudly upon the people to wake up & repent of their sins. The Elders who have 
returned are full of the Holy Ghost & power of God. The account which they give of their 
missions & the dealings of God with them have been vary interesting & edifying unto the people. 

I attended meeting in the 14th ward this evening. I addressed the people. Was followed by 
Bishop Hoagland who spoke well. He reproved Brother Ballantyne for the saying the Head or 
Bishop of the ward was out of the way & while the Head was tong the body would be wrong. The 


Page297 




Bishop said He had done the best he Could & He did not feel to take the reprof. 

Brother Balantyne arose & made his Confession before the people which was except[ed]. W. 
Woodruff remarked that the people should learn a lesson by that Circumstance that no man in the 
Church has a right to reprove any man that is over him in the priesthood. If he sees that he is 
really doing wrong He has a right to go to the man & pray him to desist but He has no wright to 
speak of it to any one ownly to report it to those who are over him that the evil may be Corrected 
by proper authority. 

Samuel Richards followed & spoke upon the same subject much to Edification. He was followed 
by Gilbert Clements who spoke lengthy. Bishop Hoagland spoke a short time & closed the 
meeting. 

The Bishops of this City were baptized to day & confirmed. 

10th I Called upon A Carrington. Found him unwell. I called upon Presidet Young & asked him 
to hear History read. It was a Cold day. I spent the day in the office. Presidents Kimball & Grant 
were about home attending to their duties. 

I attended meeting in the 14th ward. Wm. Taylor spoke to the people rather Cold & dry, 

Followed by Brother Horn who spoke good sentiment not vary spirited. I followed him. Spoke of 
the various sins which we were liable to commit among others fals promises in deal. Spoke of the 
great Blessings which God had given us from the begining through his servants. Had revealed 
great & mighty principles unto us through the prophets who lead us for which we ought to be 
thankful & live our religion. I had a measure of the spirit of the Lord but not as much as I would 
have liked. 

I was followed by Bishop Hoagland who had a good deal of the spirit of the Lord. He reproved 
his Councellors & said they were asleep & did him no good. If he got any thing out of them He 
had to go after them. They should Come to him. He said the people were not sufficently awake. 
He wanted them to wake up & get more of the spirit of God. He spoke well. 

1 1th I spent the day in the office making a commencement upon the History of Brigham Young. 
Presidents Brigham Young H. C. Kimball Joseph Young & John Young Came into the office & 
herd read what we had written & corrected what was wrong. The Texan Company arived in this 
City at 4 oclok P.M. I attended meeting with the Board of directors at 7 oclok in the evening. 

12th Sunday I attended meeting at the Tabernacle. President Daniel Spencer Spoke to the people 
followed By President Grant then By President Young all of which spoke in the power of God. J. 
V Long Reported. In the Afternoon Heber C. Kimball addressed the meeting & he spoke in the 
spirit & power of God. J V Long & Leo Hawkins reported. 

I met with the Circle in prayer being 17 persons present. At the Close of prayer Elder Leonard 
Wilford Hardy was called forward & presidents. B. Young H. C. Kimball J M Grant F D. 
Richards & W Woodruff laid hands upon his head & ordained him to the office of an High Priest 


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and a Bishop & also the first Councellor to Bishop Edward Hunter. The following is a synopsis 
of his blessing. President Young was mouth. 

Brother Leonard Wilford Hardy in the name of Jesus Christ & by virtue of the Holy Priesthood 
we lay our hands upon your head & ordain you to be a High Priest & a Bishop in the church of 
Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints And we also ordain you to be the first Councellor to Bishop 
Edward Hunter, who is the Chief Bishop in the Church & we seal upon your head all the power 
& Authority of this priesthood & Bishopprick & we seal upon you the spir[it] of Council & 
Revelation that you may Council the people to pay their tithing & we bless you with the gift of 
Disernment that you may have power to magnify your Calling & you shall have the spirit of 
Prophesy & revelation visions Dreams & the Administering of Angels & you shall be filled with 
wisdom & shall assist in building up the kingdom of God on the Earth & shall be an active 
assistance unto Bishop Hunter in gathering the Tithing of the people that the Temples of our God 
may be built & his works carried on. 

Let your heart be comforted. You shall be blessed with evry good thing your heart shall desire & 
your words shall be like a two Edged sword among the people & we seal you up unto Eternal 
Life & no man shall take your Crown. We seal all these Blessings upon your head in the name of 
Jesus Christ Amen. 

J C Little was then ordained unto the office of a Bishop & the 2d Councellor to Bishop Edward 
Hunter. The following is a synopsis of the Blessing: 

Brother Jesse C[ ] Little In the name of Jesus Christ we lay our hands upon your head & we 

ordain you to be a Bishop & a second Councellor unto Bishop Edward Hunter in the Church of 
Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints & we seal upon your head all the blessings appertaining?] [to] 
the Bishopprick & we pray God to Let the Holy Ghost rest upon you & we say it shall rest upon 
you at this time & you shall live long upon the Earth & stand by thy Brethren untill death even 
with thy brethren whose hands are upon thy head & be with them both in time & in Eternity. You 
shall have visions Dreams & the spirit of Prophesy & thou shalt have the gift of disernment to 
know the harts of the Children of men & we seal these blessings upon you & seal you up unto 
Eternal Life in the Name of Jesus Christ Amen. 

1 Attended meeting in the 14th ward school House & herd Elders Wm. W. Phelps J. Vancott & B 
L Clapp preach. They had the spirit of the Lord & spoke well. 1 followed them. The spirit of the 
Lord was upon me. 1 warned the people to repent of all their sins & turn unto God from this hour 
to set their houses in order & evry man woman & Child fill their place & do their duty that the 
spirit & power of God might rest upon them. I was followed by Bishop Hunter Hoagland who 
had the spirit of the Lord upon him. We had a good Meeting. 

President Kimball remarked that it was no use to baptize the people untill they had made 
restitutions to those whom they had injured. He also said that the men who had been to work for 
him He had given $ 1 .50 cts per day & they were dissatisfied & went away to prove whare they 
said they could get $2 per day. 


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Elder F. D. Richards said that he had found the people more ready to carry out the principles of 
this kingdom who had been taught it in the English Language than those who ownly understood 
the welsh & other Languages. It has seemed like speaking through a quill to the welsh Churches 
all the time. 

13th Monday I spent the day in the office writing. At 4 oclok Presidents B Young H C. Kimball 
& J M. Grant also D. H. Wells & some others left this City for a Journey to Fort supply Fort 
Bridger, & Green River & c &c & to meet with the companies who were coming in from the 
states with Hand Carts & ox teams. 

14th I spent the day in the office writing History of Brigham Young. Joseph & John Young spent 
a part of the day with us. I had a meeting with my family. I had a good time. I confessed my own 
faults & told my families theirs. Exhorted them to take my Council. They Covenanted to do so. 
The spirit of the Lord was with me. At the Close of my family meeting I went down to the Elders 
meeting & herd them speak for a short time. 

151 spent the day in the office on President Youngs History. Joseph Young spent a part of the 
day with us. We received word that President Young was quite sick. Brother Sprague was sent 
for & the whole Company was returning. They all arived home about 7 oclok. 

16th \ In Company with President Kimball I visited President B Young. We found him feeble but 
much recoverd. The sickness had mostly left President Young as soon as he came over the big 
mountain this way. There seemed to be sumthing mysterious about his sickness. He was taken 
vary severe in the evening of the 14 with pain in the kidneys & bowels & he nearly fainted away. 
Presidents Kimball & Grant administered unto him & prayed for him & he began to recover. 

The brethren felt that the valley was full of Devils. They had to go onto the mountain before they 
could get the spirit of prayer. They felt that there was a Legion of Devils in the valley 
congregated against them & trying to destroy them. They felt also that there was evil intended 
against them on the road & that they should leave the valley & return home. They hitched up 
their Horses in the morning & started for home & the nearer they drew to the City the better they 
felt. 

Brother Kimball & myself Called upon Sister Fanny Young a short time. In speaking of her 
history she said she had been alone a good deal through life & she did not wish to have a history 
of her life published. She did not wish any one to have her likeness neither after she was dead. 

I attended meeting at the 14 ward during the evening. There were present J. M. Grant F. D. 
Richards W Woodruff & Bishop Hoagland & his Councellors. J. M. Grant preached in the power 
of God. He is a quiver in the hands of the Almighty among the people. He took up Bishop 
Hoagland & his two Councellors then the Teachers then the 14 ward and all the people in it & 
looked at them with the Light of truth & the Candle of the Lord & the whole body was searched 
with a scrutinizing Eye & all sins rebuked by the power of God. He left as soon as he got through 


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speaking. 

Was followed by F. D. Richards who bore testimony to the words which had been spoken. He 
was followed by W. Woodruff who also bore a strong testimony & the spirit of God was upon 
the people. Phineas Richards made a few remarks after Bishop Hoagland had spoaken in the 
spirit of God. Then the meeting Closed. 

17th I went down in the fore noon into the big field. I found my ditch fence had some of it dug 
down by boys & they were burning up poles & stakes. I spent the afternoon in the office. I called 
upon President Grant. He preached the funeral sermon of a Brother Merrill who had died 18 
years of age. Lived on Big Cottonwood. 

18th I have taken Cold & am vary sore. I spent the day in the office. President Young has 
recovered from his illness. 

19th Sunday I spent the fore part of the day in the Historians office in committee with the board 
of Directors on preparing?] matter for the prest. Elder MCarty E. D. Woolley & J. M. Grant 
[spoke] In the afternoon President H. C Kimball J M. Grant F D. Richards & Z Pulsipher 
occupied the time. President Kimball & Grant flung the Arrows of God into the Hearts of the 
Transgressor. The spirit & power of God was upon them. 

I attended the Council prayer Circle. At the Close of prayers President Young Called upon 
Bishop Hunter & his Council L W. Hardy & J C Little to ordain Frederick Kesler a Bishop in the 
16 ward. They laid hands upon him and ordained him. The following is a synopsis of his 
blessings: 

Brother Frederick Kesler in the name of Jesus Christ we lay our hands upon your head & we 
ordain you a High Priest & a Bishop in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints & we seal 
upon your head all the blessings which have been sealed upon [you] by any of the servants of 
God in days which are past & gone & we seal upon you all the power Blessings & keys of the 
High Priesthood & Bishopprick & you shall have power to sustain & Comfort the drooping 
spirits of the people & we seal upon you all the blessings which are needful to sustain you in your 
Calling & every blessing which your heart can Desire in righteousnes befor the Lord. We seal 
these blessings upon you in the name of Jesus Christ Amen. 

President B. Young said to J. C. Little I wish you would see Hosea Stout & see if their is any 
Law whareby I can Handle Judge Drummand for He has trampelled over all Law of this Territory 
walked over the Legislature of this Territory & all their Enactments & if their is any Law that I 
can get hold of I want to send for him & Judg him up. He has said there was no Marriage in this 
Territory that was Legal whether a man had one wife or more And that we had no right to Collect 
a tax for the improvement on the soil of this Territory, & I want to write him a Letter to inform 
him that the Law requires me to take his Cause in hand. 

D. H. Wells read the peace in the Mormon on the Murder of Strang & expulsion of that people. 


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President Young said I have got a Letter from Elder Hyde. He officiated as Clerk in Drummonds 
Court & wrote things there day after Day against God our religion & the people for a few dimes. 
He ought to be Cut off from the Quorum of the Twelve & the Church. He is no more fit to stand 
at the Head of the Quorum of the Twelve than a dog. His soul is entirely occupied with a few 
dimes & it is much more in his eyes than God Heaven & Eternal Life. He is a stink in my 
norstrels. 

20th A Cold stormy day. I spent most of the day in the office. I held a council with J. C. Little J 
Cummings C Spencer & R H Porter untill about midnight. We formed ourselves into a Herding 
Company to take stock into Rush valley. The following Resolutions were adopted: 

Resolved that Wilford Woodruff be President of this Company. Resolved that James Cummings 
be Clerk of said company. Resolved that R. H. Porter furnish one man with himself * And that 
W. Woodruff J. C. Little J. Cummings & C. Spencer furnish a man each to assist in taking 
Charge of the Heard & that each one of the fore named mentioned Company share equilly alike 
in the profits & Losses arising from the Hearding. Resolved that we use a horizontal I Brand on 
the left broad side as a company brand & get it recorded in the recorders Books. Resolved that we 
get out 100 Hand Bills forthwith & advertize the same in the Deserett News that we heard for 2 
cts per day. 

21st I spent the day in the office. I went in the morning with J Cummings to Wm. Clayton & got 
the I Recorded on the left Broad side as the brand of W. Woodruff &c for a General Herd brand. 
Presidents B Young H C Kimball & J M Grant spent the day about Home. 

22d I covered my Grape vines in the morning. Carried 10 bushels of potatoes to the Tithing 
office, & 6 bushels to Elias Smith on Brother Freemans Ac. Put up 20 bushels of wheat. Sent to 
presidents Mill then went to the office & spent the day writing Journal reading D News & on 
History. It snowed vary hard nearly all day. My Father & Boys went down to finish diging 
potatoes. The storm sceased at about 4 oclock which left the ground covered with a white mantle 
of snow. 

Brothers J M Grant & F D Richards Called into the office & spent an hour in conversation upon 
home missions in this City & Territory. 

23d Thursday * I called upon President Kimball & asked him for his back Journals. He said he 
would let me have them. 

I called upon President Young & He was in Company with Bishop Taylor & John Sharp 
Feramorz Little & others making a Contract about diging the Tunnel to take out Webber River 
into Davis County. The following conversation took place with President Young: 

He said he would not undertake this Job unless the Bishops would bind themselves to pay as fast 
as we get the Lumber for them and I want $ 1 ,000 pay kept in advance and the People must back 
this matter up. Brother Taylor said they would do it. The people are Expecting to back it up. This 


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Tunnel will be one mile & a quarter long. President Young asked Brother Taylor if He wanted us 
to Commenced this Job & go on with it. Brother Taylor said I do. President Young said to John 
Sharp are you prepared to take hold & boss this Job as I Cannot attend to it. Brother Sharp said 
he would. Now Brother Taylor you go & get your hands & go to that dam & build that & do it 
well. Do not trust to any man to boss that Job who is not well aquainted with the business. 

Now I want to give you Some Council & instruction abut this Job. Get you a Gang of Hands & 
say to them now I will give you so much interest for doing so much on this canal. Let the bishops 
take their men & go with them & have the Canal staked off & say to the Companies that those 
who get their Job done first that they shall have a silver Meddle. 

Brother Taylor asked shall we enlarge Kays settlement? Answer No untill the people build up & 
improve what they have got. What shall those do who are there & have no place to build upon? 
"Let the people who have more Land than they can improve to a good advantage divide with 
them. Now you will want some shanties but I dont want any thing built but dug outs. Dig your 
holes in the bank & cover over with slabs as they will [be] temperary buildings. 

Brother Elebbeck will make out the bill of Lumber. It will take 23,254 feet of Lumber for the 
bottom peaces of the Tunnel. It will cost $27,301.25 to dig out the Earth admitting that it is sandy 
Loam as they expect it is. "I will give $2 per bushel for wheat delivered at my upper Mill. 

A committy from the Literary Musical society consisting of Wm. Edington, Hugh Finley & Wm 
G. Mills called upon President Young to consult his feelings upon the subject of continuing those 
Entertainments. President Young said I do not like some things that have been there. Most of the 
Sisters & Brethren have written vary good Essays but Some have been vulger. But I have no 
objection to their being continued if they can be conducted in Righteousness. I would like to have 
you get a globe revolving there & give Lectures upon Geography History & science. They all 
belong to our religion and there is but few that Can retain in there memory the geography of the 
world. So lectures would be interesting to many upon those subjects. I do not want to hear 
baldedash, but I want to hear that which is right & tends to good. 

Presidents B Young H. C Kimball & J M Grant came into the office at 2 oclok to hear History 
read. They staid through the afternoon & heard history read. While reading James Gorden & 
Jacob Wilder came in & reported that thirteen families had got the small pox & that it was 
spreading. He received orders to keep the people at home who had or had been exposed. 

24th I spent the day in the office on History & Journal. A man arived last evening from Laramie 
informs us that A. O. Smoot was at Green river. Will be at Bridger to night. Will be expected in 
in 10 days. The last company the Indians Killed. They had killed the same Number of the whites 
as the Souldiers had killed of the Indians. Then they were satisfied & gave themselves up & also 
surrenderd Mrs Margetts who they had taken prisioner. He herd from Laramie the 24 sept. Snow 
8 inches deep on the big Mountain. There was snow to Green River. Porter Rockwell was laid up 
for the Snow on hams Fork. Dan Jones arived to day quite unwell. 


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25 I spent this day Choreing. Went to Mill. Got 20 bushels of wheat ground. Drew 2 load of 
Adobies. 


26th Sunday I attended meeting all day at the Tabernacle. \ \ Elder Dan Jones was called upon to 
speak. He was vary weak & feble. He looked nearly worn out. His lungs was vary weak. He 
spoke but a short time. 

When He Closed He was followed by President Kimball who spoke in the power of God. At the 
Close of his remarks He Called for all the Horse teams in the City & Country to go into the 
Mountains & pick up the companies who were coming with hand Carts & bring them into the 
City. 115 Teams were raised in a few moments. All were to be prepared to start in the morning. 
They were to take grain to feed them with. This is a great exp[ense] to this Territory to send out 
so many teams to bring in the companies in consequence of their starting so late. This was in 
Consequence of some who were in Authority not obeying Council but rather blocked up the way. 

In the Afternoon President J. M. Grant & H. C. Kimball & L. W. Hardy all spoke in the power of 
God & in the demonstration of the Holy Ghost. They reproved, rebuked, exhorted in the power of 
God accompanied with prophesying. 

I Attended the prayer Circle. President B Young was present. He was unwell & did not attend 
meeting through the day. The subject came up concerning the Emigration starting so late that it 
had Cost this Territory more than it would to have bought oxen & brought them through for we 
have had to send some 250 teams out to meet the Emigration & send some 20 Tons of flour & 
many thousands of Dollars worth of Shoes & clothing. 

President Young asked why they were so late. Brother Richards said that Elder Taylor wanted to 
Controll the Emigration & means & would not take hold & assist in the work without it. 

President Young said Brother Taylor was a good man in many things but he was not fit to handle 
means no more than a Child. I am going to inform all Churches people & agents next season who 
do not take my Council that they shall be suspended from the Church. Elder Taylor said that they 
could not be forwarded short of £12 $58 which would not do at all. President Young said you had 
your positive instructions what to do but John Taylor stood in your way & you did not do as you 
were told & thee people were sent so late that it has cost us many thousands of Dollars to get 
them in. Now what did you think of such things? 

Elder Franklin Richards said the ownly excuse I have to offer is that Orson Spencer was dead & 
John Taylor took Charge of all things in the states & informed me that he had instructions from 
President Young to attend to it which it appears was not correct. Elder Taylor wanted to handle 
the money himself which was wrong. 

I went to the 12 ward & preached & had the spirit of God upon me. I was followed by Bishop 
Hardy & several others who spoke in the spirit of the Lord. 

27th I spent most of the day preparing my waggon & team to go into the mountain to assist the 


Page304 




poor saints who are in the snow & on the road with hand Carts. I also put up a new boiler to day 
to make Beet Molasses. 

I met with President Grant & all the Missionaries at Brother F. D. Richards. \ President Grant 
said Elders Woodruff & F. D. Richards would preside over the missionaries & direct them in 
their work. 

W. Woodruff Called upon President Grant to pray who opened the meeting by prayer. W. 
Woodruff then gave an account of the procedings of the former missionaries & what Course he 
thought we ought to persue. J M Grant then Said we should do as though there was no 
missionaries before. I want you to go through this Territory & I want you to do as God wants 
you. Go prepared for Battle. When it is nessary Jirk men up by there n[ames?]. Wake up the 
bishops & all presiding officers & then the people. 

The Church at Grantsvill on the 4th of July lifted up an independant flag organized themselves & 
appointed a president which was Brother Coolley. He Came to me to know if he should except it. 
I told him I would not & If he wanted to get into a scrape He might do it. Otherwise He had 
better let it alone. I told them to go back & preach the gospel to them & tell them to Clean up &c. 

Now we want to know what all men are doing through this Territory. The people are dirty & 
filthy & they want to reform in this thing. Many do not treat their children right but use them 
roughly. Now if a man has the spirit of God he will use his Children well & treat them kindly. I 
can tell you that Children are vary sensitive & the treatment they meet with has a great Effect 
upon them. 

We want to see to that the people are imployed. The reason why we prosper in this City more 
than any other w[as?] labour. 

I went to Taylorsville with Joseph Young and the people ware so dead & so bad that Brother 
Joseph wanted to go home & not stop. I told him I would not go untill I converted that people & I 
staid untill I done it. [-] got the spirit of God before I left then I conquered the people. So at the 
City Bountiful I preached there untill the spirit stoped with us for days but at first the bishop was 
asleep. When you got to a place treat the people right. Get the spirit of God. Then you will know 
all that is going on & when you go to a place preach to that people. Dont get into Noah ark or 
into the City of Jerrusalem but just tell the people what you want them to do. Other remarks were 
made by Brother Grant. 

F D Richards followed. Was glad to get home & when abroad was in the preaching mood but not 
so much in this City but wished to get into the spirit of it. President Grant wished all the 
Missionaries to meet at social Hall on Friday night at the Theological Meeting. Daniel Spencer 
James Furguson Dan Jones E Elsworth Brother Smith Vancott & D Grant all spoke in ther turn & 
spoke [well?]. W Woodruff spoke upon the subject of Journal keeping & wished the people to do 
it. 


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28th Robert Scholes started this morning with my Horses & waggon to go into the mountain to 
assist the saints. I spent most of the day making a beet press & boilers. 

29 I spent most of this day at work at home on making Beet molasses. Some of the day in the 
office. I put up 16 gallons of good Molasses. 

30th I spent this day in the office mostly. I spent the night making Molasses till 4 oclok in the 
morning. 

3 1 11 I met President Grant. He told me that there had come an express from the 1st Hand Cart 
Company & that there was bad news. They were Caught in a snow storm & dying vary fast. I 
went with him to the presidents office & saw the messengers who were Gideon H Gibe & Horace 
Newel. They went out to meet the Hand Cart companies. When they met the Hand Cart Company 
there had been some 25 death. 20 were men. They were Caught in a snow storm & the people 
became Chilled would draw all day & die at night. Those who would dig a grave for ther brethren 
would die the same day. There were 5 deaths the day before we met them. Ther were 4 deaths the 
day after we arived the 21st October 2 deaths the 2d day & 15 burials the 3 day & 4 on Sunday 
morning the day the expres left. They had not heard from the 2d Company of Hand Carts but 
Joseph Young & Wheelock went ahead with the news that help was coming. G. D. Grant 
followed with 10 of the best teams. 

There had been about 55 deaths in the first Company in consequence of the Cold. The Captain of 
the Company dealt out all the provisions to the people the night before any help Came & they did 
not know that any help was Coming. They dealt out 1 1 oz to men 9 to women & 6 to Children. 
There was but little snow on the road till you got to rocky ridge 30 miles east of the pass but vary 
Cold. Several of the brethren froze their feet. Brother Wm. Kimball had. 

A. O. Smoot was at Bridger. Lost 20 Head of oxen in a few days. Will leave 75 or 100 Head at 
Bridger. Think they may winter. Smoot camped on Muddy on the 30 oct. 

When President Young Came in & herd the news He said there had so many gone to glory & 
would not Come Here to apostitize. But we are learning a lesson by this but our agents will not 
leam. They will shove people out onto the plains in sept & think all Utah will go out to meet 
them with open arms. President Young said Brother Heber 1 will tell you what we had better do. 
We had better take Franklin & Samuel Richards & Orson Pratt & let them esstablish posts at 
wood river the first Year, be[low?] Laramie the 2d year & at Deer Creek the 3d year & let them 
stop & not Come here next year at all but let those brethren go to those places & esstablish 
stations & raise grain & what they Cannot raise lay out there means in the States to buy & bring 
untill they can raise [it]. That is what we ought to do. 

1 felt quite unwell today. 1 spent most of the day in the office. 

November 


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Nov 1st I spent most of the day in the office a part of the day at my beet press. The Calafomia 
Mail got in this evening. President Young & Ferrymore Little sent each with a team of 4 mules 
on each waggon with feed to their teams in the mountains who had gone after the Emigration. 
One waggon had on 1,800 lb. the other 1,500. 

2d Sunday I spent the day at the Tabernacle. F. D. Richards, H. C. Kimball & B. Young spoke to 
the people in the forenoon & J. M Grant in the afternoon. It was a day of strong reproof against 
sinners & sin. President Young treated strongly upon the ungodly. Those who had broaken any of 
the Laws of God were made to tremble. 

I attended the prayer Circle in the evening. President Young requested me to write out a list of 
the Commandments which he wished to make use of. I did not attend any other evening meeting. 
I spent the night at home & had a dream of meeting with President Young & he blessed me. I 
awoke. It was a dream. 

3d I called upon President Young at his office. One of the brethren was in From Fort supply & 
asked Council about walling in Fort supply. President Young said it would not do any good to try 
to wall in that City as the gates would be open day & night but go to work & wall in a Fort. Make 
a place secure where you Could keep your tithing & other grain in safety. I would rather make a 
good Earth wall than a cobble stone wall as they will be tumbling down. 

Benjamin F. Johnson came in & asked Council of President Young in behalf of sister Babbitt 
what she should do in setling the Esstate. He advised her to Chuse capt Hooper & B. F. Johnson 
to settle the Esstare for Brother Johnson to go to Kaneville in the spring. He thought sister 
Babbitt was a good woman & would enjoy Monnonism again. 

Brigham H. Young arived to day. Called upon President Young who was glad to see him. He had 
been with A. O. Smoot to St Louis Nauvoo & keokuk. Nauvoo looks Desolate weeds growing up 
in the streets. He went to Emma Smiths mansion but Could not see any of the family. He said 
Emma had instilled into the minds of her Children that it was President Young who had caused 
the death of Joseph & Hiram Smith. An idea more fals never entered the Human Soul. President 
Brigham Young said he thought that Joseph would have as hard work to dig her out of Hell in the 
next world as he did in this. 

Brother Young informed us that Eldridge was quite sick. Thought that Brother Smoot would be 
here on Friday. 

I attended the Missionary meeting at Farmington the Historians office. President Young 
addressed the meeting in the spirit & power of God & reproved & rebuked in the power of God 
& gave great & glorious teachings unto us upon principles of the kingdom of God. G. D. Watt 
reported. See report. We had the Law of God containing many questions by which the 
Missionaries were weighed. It was a soul searching meeting. 

4th President J. M. Grant F. D. Richards met with me at the Historians office & we assigned the 


Page307 




Missionaries their various fields of Labour through this City. 

At 2 oclok President B. Young called into the office. Dimmock Huntington Called into the office 
with Pintets & another Indian. President Young questioned Him with regard to some accusations 
made By Dr Hurt against some men in Filmore. President Young said that Dr Hurt had laboured 
Hard to find fault against this people in order to have sumthing to write to Washington. 

A Young man came in by the name of George W. Hughs who had came from the Anny & been 
baptized. Offered himself as a missionary to teach the young people. President Grant gave him 
good Council & he went his way. 

The Presidency The Twelve, the seventies the High Priests, the Bishops with their Council all 
met in the Social Hall & President Brigham Young weighed the whole of ^ them in the scales of 
the Celestial Law of God & there were but vary few that weighed clear in evry point. President 
Young taught the people good doctrin & in a fatherly spirit. * 

5th I spent the day in the office. I wrote a Letter to Brother Ki[ington?]. } I had an interview with 
President J. M. Grant & F. D. Richards upon the subject of the gospel scales used to weigh the 
people & its effects. \ I spent the evening at home. We had a snow storm during the night. 

6th Presidents Kimball & J M Grant called into the Historians office & conversed upon principle. 
Brother Kimball said that any man that was faithful in the priesthood would have all the 
blessings He Could imagin or think in his heart and when Father Joseph Smith was on his dying 
bed I asked him to bless me so it might be written as he had blessed me several times & it was 
not written but Father Smith told me to write down every thing that I could think of in my heart 
or imagin & he would sign it & it should come to pass but He said a man must keep the 
Commandments of God in order to obtain the blessings. 

We had a hard snow storm at midday. Elder F. D Richards spent a part of the afternoon with me 
in the office. \ \ I had a pleasing [interview] with President B. Young J. D. Grant upon various 
principles. Remarks were made upon by gone days. 

I met with the 14 ward in the evening with the missionaries. I spoke to the people. Was followed 
by Brother Daniel D. Hurt E. B. Trip & Levi Richards & Bishop Hoagland. The spirit of God 
was with us & we had a good meeting. 

7th I spent the fore part of the day at home the afternoon in the office. President Young was in 
the office a short time. 

8th The Presidency & 12, & others met in Council at the Historians Office. They took up the 
subject of reading the sermon of president Young concerning the late Emigration & what Caused 
so much sufferings. He cast reflections upon J. Taylors & F. D. Richards as Taylor had Henderd 
the brethren from doing business for several weeks. The greatest reflections were Cast upon him. 
The Presidency finally concluded they would strike out those sentences that cast reflection upon 
those brethren & print the rest. 


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President Young send to Bishop Hunter when the Hand Cart Company comes in I want to have 
the bishops take the people to some empty Houses & appoint an over seer over them so that they 
may not eat themselves to death for they would kill themselves if they had an oppertunity. 

President B. Young & Council voted that the indignation of the Marshall of this City rest upon 
Henry J Jarvis from this time forth. H C Kimball said Hear it O ye Heaven & execute it upon the 
Earth O ye men of God. 

I spent most of this day in the office. I preached in the 14th ward on the refermation in the 
evening. 

9 Sunday I attended meeting in the Tabernacle. B L Clapp spoke followed By B. Young who 
spoke in the power & spirit of God in giving instruction. In the afternoon Brother Heber C 
Kimball J. M. Grant & W Woodruff occupied the afternoon. The spirit of the Lord rested upon 
them. President Kimball said that He did not wish to have the people partake of the sacrament 
unless they were Clear of all sin or had made resteration whare they had done wrong. President 
Grant Exhorted the people in the spirit & power of God & the testimony was backed up By W. 
Woodruff. 

I attended the prayer Circle in the evening then went to the 15th ward & preached to the people 
followed by Elder E Elsworth. We had a good time. 

Elder A. O. Smoot & James S Willie both came in this evening with their train. 

10th I called upon President Young. We went to the endowment House & spent the forenoon. I 
spent the afternoon in the office. Elder A O Smoot Brought in the Church train goods &c & 
Brother Willie the Hand Cart Company. There had been 60 deaths in that company. They were 
nearly chilled to death by the snows & Cold in the mountains. 

Elder Steel from Iron County Called upon me. He gave me an account of the Lead mines. He said 
there should be a settlement On the Rio Virgin say 15 miles from old Harmony. By putting a 
settlement on the Rio Virgin go down the Rio Vergin and up the Santa Clara & you will get as 
good a road & save 6 miles in going on the Calafomia Road. Their is plenty of Cotton wood on 
the Rio Vergin & Pine in the Mountains & grass on the Hills & building Rock. This settlement 
would be about 12 miles from a good saw mill now running & there is no place beyond this point 
whare you could make a settlement for a great distance as it is a barren Desolate Country. 

I attended the Meeting of the Presidents of the Seventies at the 70" Hall. President Joseph Young 
Called upon all the first Presidents of the seventies to Pray in there turn so that He Could feel of 
their spirits. Brother Joseph spoke to the people & then I Prayed & addressed the Presidents of 
the seventy as they composed the Congregation. The spirit & power of God rested upon me & 
while I was speaking President Brigham Young Came in. When I Closed I was followed by 
Henry Harriman Levi Hancock Zera Pulsipher & President Brigham Young. He promised the 
people in the name of T f Jesus Christ if they would repent & turn from their sins from that hour 


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all their sins should be forgiven them & not remembered against them No more forever either on 
Earth or in Heaven. O what Joy this should give the people for they have nearly all signed 
[sinned] more or less. My soul was filled with Joy at the teachings presented by President Young. 

1 1th * * * [Asterisks are Woodruffs.] I spent the fore part of the day on a missionary tour. I lade 
hands upon 2 persons & blessed them. One was sick & in sorrow. I spent the afternoon in the 
office. A O Smoot dined with me. 

An express came in from the teams saying that the teams had gone to the Sweetwater & hearing 
Nothing from the companies they turned back. President Young immediately took measures to 
raise an express to [go] back immediately & turn the Teams back again to continue back untill 
they met the Company & several Horsman went with them. 

I attended the Bishops Meeting at the Seventies Hall. There was a full House. Bishop Hunter 
spoke & was followed by many of the Bishops & also President Brigham Young addressed the 
people & gave them instruction & showed them their duties as Bishops. W. Woodruff made 
some remarks upon the improper Course that some of the Teachers were persueing. J. C. Little 
was also spoke [sic] to the people. 

12 President Young started off 3 more teams this morning into the mountains. President Young 
F. D. Richards & Samuel Richards Came into the office & spent a short time. I spent the day in 
the office. I attended meeting in the 14 ward. Elder Hunt & Tripp Preached followed by the 
Testimony of several other Brethren. Then I spoke to the people a short time. 

13th \ I herd early this morning that an express had Come in from the Hand Carts company. I 
went to the Presidents office with all the Presi dency. The following is a synopsis of what I 
learned in the morning: 

Brother Joseph A. Young & George Grant parted. They agreed that they should not go any 
further than Devils Gate untill George came to them. He did not find the company so Joseph then 
went on to the platt & found them at the upper Crossing of the Platt. They were in Camp & had 
been 9 days waiting for the snow to go off. 

Soon brother Grant Arived & prepared the camp for moveing. He asked Joseph what would My 
Father Do now if he was here? Joseph Said if my Father was here He would take all the Books & 
Heavy materials & Cash them in order to save the Lives of the people. So they agreed to do it. 
They cashed all their Articles at Devils Gate & took up the weak the feeble & started towards 
home. They then sent an express back to have the Teams come on to them that was on the road. 

But Brother Vancott & Claudius Spencer had got to the sweet water & not hearing any thing 
from the Hand Cart Companies they turned back with their teams & nearly all the company 
followed them. This news arived in the City several Days since & an express was sent out to 
meet them & turn them back. All the Companies were together 2 ox trains & the Hand Cart train 
when the Brethren found them. Many of the old oxen had died but the young oxen many of them 


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were fat & fine. Brother Tenant who had bought President Yourigs place is dead. He died near 
scotts Bluffs. The people were suffering with cold & hunger some. 

David Kimball & others went ahead picked out Camp grounds made up fires shoveled off snow. 
When the Camp Came up they would take the old men & women & Children that Could not 
walk & carry them to the fire & help them get supper & then would dance around their fires & 
sing & Shout to keep up the spirits of the people & while Journeying during the day & would 
wade over all the streams & [-] the Hand Carts over & carry over all the lame women men & 
Children. 

When Wm. Kimball met with Brother Vancott He took one pair of his Mules & put onto his own 
waggon & told him to turn around with the other & follow him to the east untill they met with 
the Company as the Companies had Came back from the sweet water to webber. When the 
express had found the company they were all together & had been Camped 9 days in about a foot 
of snow waiting for the snow to go off & to recruit the Cattle. 

Elder G. D. Grant wrote a good Letter to Presidet Young giving a Description of the Company & 
ther situation. He says that not more than one third of the Hand Cart Company wer able to walk 
& many were barefoot & freezeing ther toes. 

The Conversation turned to Brother Vancott & Claudious Spencer & Elder Kimball said Brother 
Young has got much better Eyes than I have for I never Could see Brother Spencer He is so small 
& President Young said that Brother Vancott took after Orson Pratt in Philosophy. If he had the 
spirit of God with him he would not have turned that Company back but I am not agoing to 
blame them. 

Among other things the subject of miracles came up & President Young said I have had a $5 gold 
piece put into my pocket now two days in succession. I do not know from what source it came 
from. Brother Kimball said it was an Angel. Broth Young then related a circumstance that when 
He & Broth Kimball was travelling East to gether they had $13.50 ownly & they travelled untill 
they paid out $87 out of it & had sixpence left & they received no addition by any known hand. 
Brother Kimball said that an Angel had taken that money out of some body pocket & put it into 
our trunk. 

I spent most of the day in the office. 

14th I spent most of the day in the office. I was quite unwell. I called upon Presidents Young & 
Kimball. Both spent the day mostly at home. President Grant was sick. 

15th I spent the day at the office. I was quite unwell. 

16th Sunday Joseph A. Young James G. Willie Wm. Woodward President B. Young & H. C. 
Kimball all spoke in the fore noon. I was not able to attend in the forenoon. Levi Savage spoke in 
the afternoon. Was followed by Mellen Atwood. Both spoke well. Gave an account of ther 
travels in India England & c & the progress of the Hand Cart Companies. At the Close President 


Page3 1 1 




H. C. Kimball moved that Thomas L Williams Henry J Jarvis Loren Babbitt & all those that went 
with Babbitt to Calafornia be Cut off from the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. It was 
Carried unanimously by the whole congregation. 

I attended the prayer Circle in the evening & President Young said that all that would not Come 
direct from the tabernacle to the Council room for Prayers might consider themselves Cut off 
from the Circle. 

\ I went to the 14th ward meeting in the evening. They met for the 1st time in the new Music 
Hall built by Capt Bellows band in the 14 ward. The Hall was dedicated unto God. W. W. Phelps 
made the dedication Prayer after which W Woodruff was Called upon to address the people who 
spoke about one hour. Related a Dream that He had of meeting with Joseph the other side of the 
veil. Joseph A Young followed with a short Discourse. Bore a strong testimony of the work of 
God. He was folowed by F D. Richards & Bishop Hoagland & the meeting was dismissd. 

17th I was quite unwell & spent most of the day in the office. I had a visit from Zina Young & 
Sister Cobb in the evening. I spent the night at home. Was quite unwell. 

18th I am quite poorly this morning. I spent most of the day in the office. Wilford started to day 
to get my Beef ox at Charles White. President Young F D Richards & D. Spencer Rode to Dr M 
Richards pasture. It rained some today & a hard shower at about 5 oclok & snowed during the 
night. I spent the evening in reading Comodore Perrys visit to Jappan. 

19th Snow upon the ground this morning. I spent the day in the office. I was visited by the 
Missionaries & teachers in the 14th ward. I was visited By Elders Hunt & Tripp & S. M. Blair & 
Taylor. They presented the Law of God & myself & family was weighed by it. They laid hands 
upon me That I might be healed from sickness for I had been sick several days. 

I attended meeting in the evening with the council of the 14 ward. I spoke to them my feelings. 
Bishop Hunter spoke & others spoke. 

I left & called to visit Parley Pratt family as they wished some Council upon some matters which 
I gave them. 

y M Grant called at this office at 12 oclok the last time He was out. 

20th \ The 14th ward Had a meeting at the Music Hall in their ward. The day was spent in fasting 
& prayer. The House was full. The forenoon was taken up by the Teachers makeing a report. W. 
Woodruff gave an address & was followed by F D. Richards. Vary Plain Preaching was given 
through the day. I attended meeting in the evening with Brother Richards at the 9th ward. We 
both preached vary plain. The spirit of God rested upon us & we taught in great plainness. 

21st We had a severe snow Storm through the day. It looks dismal to think of the Poor Saints 
who are now in the mountains in the midst of the snow. I Killed an ox & put up my winters Beef 
today. 


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22d I spent the day in the office. I laid Hands upon President J. M. Grant who is vary sick in 
Company with F. D. Richards. I had a visit in the evening from F. D. Richards & wife & sister 
Pratt. They staid till 12 oclok. We had a plesant time in conversing upon the things of the 
Kingdom of God. 

23d Sunday I spent the day in the Tabernacle. W. W. Phelps spoke in the morning. Was followed 
by Elder A. Farnham & in the Afternoon by Robert Skelton who spoke upon their mission. Gave 
an account of their travels in India Calcuty Rangoon &c. Also Farnham in South Australia. 

I attended the Prayer Circle in the evening. I however spoke in the afternoon a short time at the 
Close of the meeting & had the spirit of the Lord. 

At the close of prayers I went in Company with H. C. Kimball F D Richards J. C. Little D. H. 
Wells & we all laid Hands upon J. M. Grant & rebuked his sickness. He was vary sick. 

There was a Call made at noon for more men & Animals to go into the mountains. About 100 
men arose in the Congregation to go with Teams. President Young said that if they had to send 
many into the Mountains He thought it best to move the City into the Mountains to spend the 
winter. 

24th Presidents B. Young & H. C. Kimball Called & spent the fore part of the day Hearing the 
History read. Brother Grant is still vary sick. The presidency laid hands upon him. 

The missionaries met at the Historians office. President B. Young was present. The meeting 
opened by prayer & singing. W. Woodruff made a report of the progress of the work of the 
refennation & was followed by a report of all the Missionaries through the City which took till 9 
oclok. Then we had an address from President Young & it was glorious. G. D. Watt reported. 
President Young is fdled with the spirit & power of God & is Like God. Is fdled with Mercy & 
evry other good Principle. 

25th I spent the fore part of the day at home & the afternoon in the office. I attended the bishops 
meeting in the evening. Bishop Edward Hunter addressed the people followed by L. W. Hardy E. 
D. Woolley & W. Woodruff. All spoke plain & had the spirit of God. 

26th I Called upon President J. M. Grant & found him vary sick indeed. I laid hands upon him & 
Prayed for him & rebuked his disease. 

I spent most of the day in the office. I Paid Silas Richards $29.25 to pay the taxes of J. M. 
Bernhisel for 1856, & took Receipt for the same. 

I attended meeting at the 7th ward with the Priesthood. Bishop Perkins was present. The teachers 
were asleep & it was Cold & dull. I herd the ward represented. Then Brother Richards spoke & I 
followed him & we both exhorted them to wake out of sleep. 

27th I called upon Brother Grant to see how he was. I found him vary weak & restless. Brother 


Page313 




Sprague & Ivins were attending upon him as Physicians. J. C. Little & L. Hardy were watching 
with him & nursing him. I spent the day in the office. 

28th I went to Mill this morning. I attended the trial of Luke Johnson & the settlement in Rush 
valley before Bishop Hunter & Council. The Bishop decided that Colwell should leave that 
valley & the Company should pay him $165 dollars for his improvements. Brother Porter agreed 
to take the place & pay for it. Presidet J. M. Grant is still vary sick. I spent the evening at home. 
My family all came together & had a good supper together. 

29th President Grant Had a vary sick night the worst that He has [had] since he had been sick. 
The Devil worked hard all night to kill his body. The brethren laid on hands upon him many 
times & rebuked the devel. The devel would lay upon him a strong hand from his feet to his head 
all through his limbs & stomach & a rib at a time & it seemed as though He would Crush his 
body. Brother Grant though vary weak would rebuke him for an hour at a time from Limb to 
Limb & rib to rib. It was a perfect warfare all night. He is easier this morning. 

We get word this morning from T $ the Hand Cart company that they will Camp to night at 
killions at the foot of the Little Mountain. Many of them are frozen. Their fingers & toes are 
droping off & flesh droping off their bones. It has been vary bad management in starting out 
Companies so late upon the plains. Brother Decker Came in last night. He brought in the express. 
He says that the ox trains Cannot even get to Bridger. They sent in for 40 tons of flour. The 
Cattle are dying & also the people. There has never been so much suffering among any people as 
their is this season. It is truly deploriable. I spent a short time with the Editor of the News. 

30th Sunday I attended meeting at the Tabernacle. Ephraim Green spoke a few words. Was 
followed by Allen Finlay & John Chesley. Then some remarks [ware] made By President Young 
concerning the Hand Cart Company who was now entering the City. He wished the inhabitants to 
take the people in to their houses & nurse them up. He said He would take all that was left. 

When the Meeting was dismissed we held a short interview with the members of the Legislature. 
We then went into the street & saw the poor saints who had Just arived. Their was about 100 
waggons containing the Company. Many were Cripples. Had their hands & feet froze nearly off. 
They were immediately distributed through the City. 

I attended the prayer Circle in the evening & preached in the 14th ward in the Music Hall. Was 
followed by F. D. Richards & S. Richards & others. 

December 

Dec 1st President J. M. Grant is vary low this morning. I met with S. M. Blair & John Brown at 
the office & made some arangements about bringing up a Bill to esstablish a Cotton fann on the 
Rio Virgin. 

I Called upon President Young at his office. He had been down to lay hands upon president J. M. 
Grant who lay vary low. His lungs appeared to fill & no power to raise any thing from his Lungs. 


Page314 




It appeared as though he could not live but a short time unless there was a change soon for the 
better. He said he felt as though He wanted an apple some grapes or wine or sumthing upon his 
stomach. President Young sent him down some & they rosted an apple & he eat it about 12 oclok 
& seemed to relish it well. He also drank some butter milk which he relished well, but it seemed 
to be sumthing like a death Apetite. 

^ The missionaries met at the Historians office. Soon President Young Came in & opened the 
meeting with prayer. F. D. Richards made a short report or address & was followed by W. 
Woodruff who expressed his feelings in great plainness concerning this people taking of from the 
president a part of the burthen which is resting upon him for he was wearing out. Then all the 
Missionaries who was sent to the different wards were Called upon to report. All made their 
report & spoke incourageingly of the refermation. The meeting held till 10 oclock. 

F. D. Richards & myself started down to see how President Grant was. {President Jedediah 
Morgan Grant Died Dec 1st 1856; 20 minuts past 10 oclok PM. Aged 40 years 9 months & 7 
days.} I met Dr. S. L. Sprague who informed me that He was dead. Had Just breathed his last. 

We immediately went into the House & found his wives & Children weeping bitterly. J. C. Little 
L. W. Hardy D. H. Wells George Davisson Grant & Doctors S L Sprague Israel Ivins & Dunyon 
was standing around his body. As I gazed upon his claye Tabernacle without his spirit I felt to 
exclaim A mighty man in Zion is laid low. A valiant man in Israel has fallen. I felt that a great 
Champeon in the kingdom of God was taken from us. We felt his loss deeply. 

For two months it seems as though he had been hurried to close up his work. He has been 
preaching for several months calling upon the people to repent. His voice has been like the 
Trump of the Angel of God & he has laboured night & day untill He was laid prostrate with 
sickness. He has shot the arrows of the Almighty with great power among the people. 

He Called at the Historians office on the 19th Nov the last time He was out. He was then sick. He 
was Confined to his house 10 days before he died. He had a great vision while He was sick which 
he told to the brethren. He preached nearly all the time that He was sick & he related all that he 
saw in the spirit world. 

Soon after I entered his house his wife Rosetta was seized with great trembling & nervous 
excitement & it seemed as though her frame would shake to peices. We lade hands upon her & 
rebuked the Devil which seemed to sieze her tabernacle & she became more calm. 

I assisted Dr Dunyon in laying out the body of Brother Grant. I spent the night with him. 

2d I left Brother Grants family a short time in the morning. Called upon capt Hooper. Found him 
quite sick. I administered unto him. Then I went to my house got a piece of fine linen & Mrs 
Woodruff accompanied me to Brother Grants. I gave them the linen to make a garment & Robes 
to lay out the body in. I went to President Youngs to get Zina Young to go down & help make the 
Robes. She gave me a seat. President Young came in & spoke of Brother Grants Death. Said we 
had done all we could to save his life but the powers [of] the other side of the veil were stronger 


Page315 




than we were & he was wanted there. 


Sister Zina Young walked with me to President Grants & spent the day with the sisters in 
makeing the robes. I felt sick & went home & went to bed & was sick through the day. 

Leo Hawkins started for Filmore today. 

/3d I spent most of the day writing the Obituary of J. M. Grant./ 

4th * At 9 oclok preperations were made for the Funeral of J. M Grant. The doors of the House 
was flung open for the people to visit the Corps. Many thousands went through the House to visit 
the body. At half past 9 the Military began to form in open lines from the residence to the 
Tabernacle. 3 bands of Music were in attendance. The Lieutenant General & Staff, General Grant 
staff & Lancers were in attendance & a company of York masons formed in the procession. 

The corps was removed to the tabernacle & the House fdled up & many that Could not get in. 

But it took so long to get through with the ceremonies of the Morning that it was 10 minuts to 12 
oclok when President Brigham Young arose to speak. As it was so late He did not speak but a 
short time & said He did not answer his mind but his remarks were vary interesting & instructive. 
At the Close of the meeting the procession was formed & the Corps conveyed to the grave 
followed by the largest procession ever fonned on such an occasion in this valley. 

At the Grave President Young made some remarks. He said we have no cause to mourn for 
Brother Grant and you have made a far greater display here than was necessary far more so than 
Brother Grant would have wished & a far greater display than I wish you to make over my body 
when I die. Brother Grant is well off & He has lived more in advancement & far riper for Eternity 
in 40 years than many would in a Hundred. When I die I ownly want you to let my body rest in 
the grave. I want to be buried decently but I do not wish any great Display at my funeral. Let your 
flags lie still & all your military display. I hope the body of Brother Grant may lie here 
undisturbed till the resurrection. I see the wann feelings of the people for Brother Grant. It is 
Cold. Let the people go home & let the bearers stay & see the grave fdled up properly. 

The procession then returned to the House. During the evening I Called upon Brother Grants 
family. I then attended meeting in the 14th ward. I was some unwell. I spoke a short time. 

5th I spent most of the day at home. I was unwell. 

6th I spent the fore part of the day in the office. I attended meeting of the Bishop & Council & 
priesthood of the 14th ward at 2 oclock. F.D. Richards was present. I set & herd the report of the 
Bretheren & when I '? \ was requested to speak by Bishop Hoagland I arose & said that Bishop 
Hoagland & the missionaries had appointed Men as teachers to the gentile stores to preach the 
gospel to them. But the spirit said to me it was not wisdom to send men to preach the gospel to 
them. I considered they were wicked & Corrupt & it was like casting pearls before swine. When I 
closed F. D Richards Backed me up & bore testimony that [what] I said was true. 


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Then Bishop Hoagland arose & opposed me vary strongly & said He presided over the 14 ward 
[&?] had Sent the Teachers to preach to the Gentiles & he wished them to go & do it. I at once 
saw the gentiles were devil had ensnared him. 

When He sat down the Teacher arose & said what shall I do? Brother Woodruff says do not go to 
those Gentiles Bishop Hoagland says go. I arose & said to the teachers obey your Bishop for He 
says he will take the responsibility upon himself in sending teachers to them. Many of the 
Priesthood were fired up upon the subject but the meeting Closed & we went home. 

At about 5 oclok the Calafornia Mail Came in & Brother Richards & myself went up to 
Presidents Youngs. We related to him what had taken place with us & Bishop Hoagland. Presidet 
Young was asstonished at the position which Brother Hoagland had taken. He said the devil was 
leading him into dificulty which he could not extricate himself without Help. 

He immediately sent for Bishop Hoagland who Came up & the subject was all talked over & 
President Young showed him his Error & he saw it. President Young told him that the Twelve 
held the keys of the Kingdom of God in all the world whare the presidency are not, & that No 
Bishop presided over any one of the Twelve in any place. The Bishop Made his Confession and 
went home. 

We sat a while & read Letters & papers. Several were received from Elder Hyde. 

7th Sunday I attended meeting in the Tabernacle. Edward Martin & Daniel Tyler Preached in the 
forenoon & C. G Webb & Wm Clough Preached in the afternoon. 

I Attended the prayer Circle. Heard the Letters read from Elders Hyde & others. Elder Orson 
Hyde calls for 100 more men. Thinks there will be a prospect of a fight with the Calafornians. 
President Young said He wished all the men were at home & that Elder Hyde was at home in his 
Store & that He would not take any Mission while he lived for He had lost the spirit of his office 
& was of no account. It made the President feel sorrowful to see the Twelve & others not feel the 
Spirit of their office. 

At the Close of the meeting I went home & with my family went to the 14 ward meeting in the 
Music Hall. I was much pressed in spirit. After listening to the speeches of Brothers Hunt, 
Candland, & Pack I was requested to speak. I arose upon my Feet though heavily pressed in 
spirit. Yet the spirit of God was in my tabernacle like fire shut up in my bones and I spoke to the 
people k about 3/4 of an hour and I scearsly knew whether I was in the body or out of [it]. 
Neither can I remember but little what I said. The following are some of the remarks which I 
made while the House was as still as the House of Death while the spirit of God filled the House: 

Brethren & sisters I arise to say a few words to you But I am pressed in spirit & I Can say as I 
have heard Brother Joseph say while smiteing upon his breast I would to God I could unbosum 
my feelings in the house of my friends but I do not expect to do it but in a small degree for my 
mind is open in vision of things which I cannot utter or speak unto you for it is not lawful or 


Page3 1 7 




expedient if I had the ability to do so. 

I am pained in spirit as I see the Bishop & Council & teachers & missionaries labouring toiling, 
rebuking & pounding the people trying to remove the darkness & fog which hangs over this City 
& the 14th ward. But let me say to the Bishop & teachers & missionaries before me to night to go 
to work & search deeply your own hearts & get the spirit of the living God upon you. Remove 
the fog & darkness from your own minds & then you can see clearly to remove the darkness from 
the minds of the people. 

The priesthood need the spirit of God in order to know how to deal with the people & save them. 
For when you knock the people in the Head in order to wake them when they get awake you 
should not still pound them untill you kill them, but get a Fatherly feeling & try to save them. 
Some of the teachers when they go through the ward to teach the people they get the big head & 
do not know how to treat the people. It is not ne[ce]ssary to stand here & jump & shout & stomp 
off 50 cts worth of sole leather in order to get the people to wake up or reform but it is a straight 
forward business matter to reform. Whare any one has stolen or done wrong in any thing let them 
return what they have taken & make restitution. 

It is a momentious time in Israel. It is necessary for this refennarion in order to have the people 
prepared for the great things of God which are Comeing upon the Earth & upon this people. The 
line will be drawn & scenes will take place which will try mens souls & I warn all men & women 
before me this night that they do not make light of the things of the kingdom of God of this 
refennarion for destruction is nigh the doors of such as do it & I warn our young Brethren & 
Sisters that they humble themselves before God & give heed to the words of Eternal Life. Listen 
to the Council of the Bishop & Missionaries & teachers among you for if you despise the Council 
of God & his servants judgment will come upon you & destress & anguish will be upon you. 

The Lord is Calling loudly upon this people to repent & do the works of righteousness & Live 
your religin. Remember the Testimony of Brother Grant. The testator is dead but the testiment is 
in force. His hard labours to awaken this people have Cost him his life. He has laid down his 
body in the grave. 

I made many other remarks while the fire & power of the Holy Ghost was burning within me. 

At the close of the meeting I Called the Bishop & priesthood to gerber & gave them instruction 
concerning the wrong Cours Bishop Hoagland had taken with me. I taught them the order of the 
Priesthood. Bishop Hoagland was humble & made all necessary satisfaction. 

8th I spent most of the day in the office. At night I attended the Meeting of the Missionaries & 
Bishops. Presidents Young & Kimball were present also W. Woodruff & F D Richards of the 
Twelve. W Woodruff arose & called the Names of the Bishops & Missionaries most of which 
answered to their names. F. D. Richards opened By Prayer & singing. 

W. Woodruff arose & said I feel as though I want to say a few word. It has seemed good unto the 


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Lord to call a portion of us through the mouth of his servants to go forth unto the inhabitants of 
this City to preach the gospel of salvation & repentance unto the people. We have met each week 
to give a report of our procedings but have not heretofore been associated with the Bishops in our 
meeting. 

I stand connected with you as a missionary & realize that those who have assembled here this 
evening should stand as the Candle & light of the Lord. I have never felt more responsibility 
resting upon me than at present. God has an object in sending us to preach the gospel of 
Repentance to the people & so had the servants of the Lord who sent us forth. 

I feel that it is necessary to purify ourselves & get the spirit of God before we can properly go 
forth to preach to the people. If we will get the darkness & fog from ourselves we can take it 
From the people & the Elements will be Clear. I feel to purify myself. I have felt the spirit of God 
resting upon me of Late & I feel that there is great things awaiting us. 

The Presidency of this church has had the Head Heart & Soul ake for a long time. It has caused 
their hearts to ake to see the Apostles & Elders of this Church who bear the priesthood forget 
their Calling & turn from the work of God unto Folly & have their hearts set upon the things ol 
the world. We may use the sledge hammer to much but we should be right ourselves when we 
reprove others. 

The Bishops & Missionaries in some instances have manifested a feeling for the mastery to know 
who should be the greatest but they would not have this feeling if they had the spirit of God. The 
Business of the Missionaries is to Call upon the people to repent & live their religion & the 
Bishops should unite with them in the spirit of God to carry out this Great work. 

How Long shall we see the Presidency of this Church weighed down to the Earth with a Burthen 
which the Elders & people should bear? Aris up ye Bishops & missionaries & put on the whole 
annor of God & the people will live their religion when you live it yourselves. Then the burthen 
will begin to lighten upon the presidency. Some time when we sharply rebuke the people we are 
not right ourselves. Thes things are true. It is time we arose in the spirit & power of our calling & 
help bear the burthen that is resting upon the shoulders of Presidents Young & Kimball. No man 
Could live with the Load resting upon him that is now upon the head of those men unless he was 
nerved up & sustained Daily by the hand & power ol God. 

I feel brethren that there is sumthing important awaiting us. The more I humble myself before 
God & get the Holy Ghost the more my heart is drawn out towards the presidency of this Church. 
I have never seen the day in my life when I have felt to prize the Society & Council of those men 
as I do at the present time. This people have not prized them & their teaching as they ought & il 
they do not more appreciate their labour & keep their Council better than they have done they 
will be taken from us. Brethren lay aside all your selfish feelings & you will see that God will be 
with us. Let us wake up ourselves & then the people not for this winter ownly but let the 
refennation last during our lives. 


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Presidents Young & Kimball are present & I would like to hear them teach & council us this 
evening but I presume they feel as though they had taught us so long & so much which we have 
not improved upon that they feel discouraged in teaching us & think we ought to know how to 
walk aright. But I do not wish to occupy your time. The spirit says I should close. May God Bless 
you. Amen. 

President Young sung "O Happy souls who pray" then said Brother Woodruff has given us a 
good testimony a Living testimony in the spirit & power of the Holy Ghost. Now any of the rest 
of you who have the Holy Ghost arise & speak to us those things which will Edify. 

B. L. Clapp & E. D. Woolley then spoke a Few moments. Then President Young arose & spoke 
to the people. The following is a synopsis of his remarks as I reported them [off?] Brother 
Kimball. President Young arose & said: 

I dont expet to speak much to night. I have learned to govern myself in talking as well as in other 
things. It may be asked if this is a new work. It is not a new work but our refermation is the work 
we begun in when we embraced the gospel. 

I have pointed out the Errors of the people all the time & shown the people ther faults & told 
them what to do. But here is the difficulty. As soon as the Elders Come home from their missions 
in a few days they lay down their Armour while they should keep it on all the time & keep it 
bright. But their minds are engrossed with the things of the world & lie down & go to sleep. 

Their ownly ambition is to know how they can get this House built or a farm, Horses cattle &c. 
Their whole soul is in the work of the world not the building of the kingdom of God. But any 
man that gets property upon this principle it will Carode him. He has not wisdom to use it. I have 
told the people a hundred times they do not know how to get rich. The way for the people to get 
rich is to do the will of God & they must be governed by the Revelations & spirit of God. 

Brother Woodruff has told us here to night how it is when I look upon the conduct of the people 
before the refermations commenced. As I was teaching them the way of Salvation daily & they 
would not give heed to it [it] pained my heart & I felt as if I should die. But when Brother 
Jedediah M Grant steped forward & took the Burthen off from me I was relieved. But it has Cost 
him his life. Had he not have taken that burthen upon him he would have lived a few Years 
longer in our midst. I have felt that unless this people would awake & live their religion I must go 
down to the grave. But the burthen of this people was taken from me & rested upon him & it has 
not yet returned to me although he is dead. Should it return to me as it has been I shall soon 
follow him to the grave for I Could not live long with that wait upon me. 

When you first recieved the gospel did /was/ not your heart filled with love & you put on the 
gospels annour & would it not have continued with you all the time if you had lived your religion 
all the time? But you have had feelings in your Breast & against your Neighbour but if the spirit 
of God had continued with you it would have overcome those evil feelings. And what if we were 
all to put our armour off & partook of the spirit of anger & Hatred? God would spue us out of his 


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mouth & we would go down to hell together & He would raise up another people to do his will. 

After all the stuper that has rested upon this people they have been gaping for more revelation. I 
do not mean one man but I mean the whole people while they have already a great deal more than 
they are worthy off & And if this people do not wake up & live their religion The Lord will take 
away the sources of revelation which they now have from the people. It is not a few men that 
have got to live their religion but it is this whole community. If we as a people will return unto 
the Lord I know he will receive us with open anns. 

I am glad that this winter has commenced without Fidling & danceing. But would their be any 
hann in going into the Hall & haveing a dance if we felt right & kept the spirit of God with us? 
No there would not. But as soon as we should open this door how many would keep the annour 
on & live their religion & keep the spirit of God? Not many. Some would but many would say 
Come let us go & take a drink & begin to get the liquor in them & then they would say Come 
Brother Brigham I am ready for any thing. Stand out of the way here. Hurrah for Hell. Sware a 
little Dam a little steal a little gamble a little, & raise the Devil. But we will stop Fidling & 
danceing untill the Brethren get power to overcome these things & keep them under their feet. I 
do not intend to start danceing again untill the people will learn to do right, & live their religion. 

I have to war with the weakness of man. I am incompassed with it. I know what it is to fight it all 
the time. If you are going to Continue a refermation make up your mind to live your religion. If 
the people will do this it will be as Brother Woodruff says. The darkness will pass away & I Can 
live long among this people & so Can brother Kimball & other men. But if this people will go on 
being stealing swearing & whoring I do not want to live but I want to leave the people & go to 
God & let the wicked go to Hell. I hope that God will send the wicked that will not repent go 
down to hell quickly & be burned up that they may be saved in the day of the Lord Jesus. 

When I first came into this church I was an Enthusiast & thought I would never keep an account 
never put pen to paper nor never say this or that was mine but it is the Lords. We never can be of 
one heart & one mind untill we can say that all we have is the Lords & that we are /ownly/ his 
servants & stewards to Controll it according] to his will. When the Lord gives me property He 
gives me wisdom to use it. 

We have individual rights & shall have to all Eternity. What are those rights? If I have any 
property Horses Cattle waggons or any thing Els my neighbor has no right to steal it from me. 
And if the people have the spirit of the Lord they would know that it was not right to take any 
thing which belonged to another without liberty but let it remain whare it is. 

We are accounting for our time to the Lord. Now if you have a months leasure time & you 
gamble that away & do not bring to pass any good you might just as well throw away $20 and 
you are accountable for this waste of time. I am often asstonished at the folly of this people. 

Many women are asking their husbands for some new thing. They want a dozen new Dresses & 
many unnecessary things but [what] does a person want of Doz new Dresses? If this people 
would ask for those things which are necessary & do right you would soon see the people get 


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rich. But what are you doing? Are you rich? No. 

The Lord can send the grasshoppers Crickets & Locust. They are his Annies & can Eat us up and 
kill our Cattle. He can give us much or little as He pleases. If our eyes are single to the glory of 
God & we do our duty the Lord Could make us as rich as Cesar. What would [you] do with it? 
Aggrandize yourselves? No you should not, but send out millions of men to gather the poor & 
send men with Mules loaded with gold to buy the Nations. But now we are poor & we can 
comparitively do but little. 

Now I am here with Brother Kimball. If you wish to ask any question we can answer right. But 
for me to teach the Bishops there duty it is folly for I have taught them over & over for years. 
Now if I was going to a ward meeting to preach and the Bishop was to oppose me unless it was 
my duty to reprove him I should sit & laugh at him but not Contend with him. But when their is 
any difficulty between a missionary & Bishop or any two men they should not Contend about it 
before the people but talk it over among themselves & settle all diference of opinion in the spirit 
of God & not labour for the mastery. 

President H. C. Kimball followed & said I am one with President Young & so was J. M. Grant. 
He took hold of the work to wake up the people with all his might & it killed him. If President 
Young was to ask me to go forth in the same way I would do it. But it would cut short my life as 
it did his. I have never felt as though Jedediah was dead. The saviour said those that abide in me 
will never die. His spirit is with us & he can do more for us now than he could before. 

The spirit of God is poured out upon some men mightily. The refermation is doing good & the 
people are doing better & those who get the spirit of God will stand & those who do not will fall. 
The people are forsaking their sins. Their are things in Embrio which will try this people & those 
Events will ripen as this People do and all will have to get the spirit & Revelations of Heaven in 
order to stand, & thes things will be among all Nations & know it as well as I knew it would be a 
hard winter. 

I want you to wake up yourselves & then wake up your wives & Children & stop your lying & 
stealing & take that Burthen upon your Backs which belong to you. Then the Presidency & 
Twelve will ownly carry their own burthens. The time has Come or is near at hand when many 
that have trifled with the priesthood & the things of God will be destroyed & go to Hell Cross 
lots & those who are not faithful in magnifying the priesthood it will be taken from them & given 
to others and that quickly and I know it for Angels Prophets & Holy men say it & it will be 
fulfilled. 

As to danceing I am tiered of it. I never want to see another man dance untill he Can do it by the 
power of God. I felt that spirit once & Brother Brigham shouted Hosanna for we were both filled 
with the spirit. Neither do I want to see any more feasting at present. I dont want to see any more 
Jealous feelings. Some of our Bishops get Jealous of the servants of God. No man would be if He 
was filled with the Holy Ghost. I would Chastize a man if He stood in my way when I knew that I 
am a messenger sent of God. 


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President Young says if the people do not do right He will not stay long with them but shall go 
the other side of the veil. If He goes I shall not stay long behind him because we will not have 
one between us and if you dont do your duty we shall go soon. 

I have had many men try to stand between me & president Young & when I have been to see him 
many have snubed me but I have seen enough of this. And that man that will try to do it He must 
look out for God & his angels will smite him. I have no objection to men coming to President 
Young to Comfort him & do him good & when he gives them a wife give him $10 or $20 dollars 
according as He may value his wife. But men must not try to separate us. If they do they will be 
cursed. 

I understood that Brother Woodruff got a whiping from one of them lately But I tell you that 
although He is a small man He is all gold & you will find it so in the end & you may be thankful 
to ever get as good a place as He will get for he is the pure gold & I wish you would get as good 
as He is. 

The Bishops will not repeat what the missionaries say for they are Jealous. But if you will get the 
spirit of God upon you there will be no Jealous feelings in your heart. You want the spirit of God 
& the power of the priesthood to rest upon you as it did upon Joseph & does upon the Presidency 
& Twelve. Take that priesthood upon you which belongs to you & magnify it. The Missionaries 
w[a/e?]nt to wake up. Then wake up the Bishops & then wake up the people & all live your 
religion & all will go well And if you will live up to your priviliges here & get the spirit of this 
refennarion it will reach all over the Earth & go to the ends of the Earth & the wicked will not 
have power over us but this work will go from Zion through all the world as the sap of a tree will 
go from the trunk to the end of evry limb & twig. 

I want to see the power of God among this people that they may have faith to remove mountains 
if necessary. But the power of God will ownly increase as the spirit of God increases among the 
people if we will do our duty. If the United [States] should be the aggressers the Lord would say 
if they came against us Let my servant Brigham send 200 men & they would lick them up. For 
God would assist to fight our Battles with the storm hail & snow, & they would be destroyed. I 
know this would be done but we must get the faith of the Ancients. 

As to Brother Brigham Young I have to say that He is just as good a man as ever was on Earth. 
Now wake up Brethren & see that you purify yourselves before you try to purify others. Then go 
forth & lift up your voice like a trumpet & call upon all men to repent. Get full of the Holy Ghost 
& there is not a man that will do it but what will be filled with Prophesyings as were the ancient 
Nephites and little Boys 4 years old will prophesy. 

I do not wish to go to a feast or a dance until this people reform. And when there is men enough 
here to bring forth this refennarion & men will not prosper untill they do their duty to God & 
each other. I have no desire to attend any recreation untill this people are filled with the spirit & 
power of God & I do not think that President Young has. 


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If you will rise up & do your duty you will be blessed & no man that rises up against us in this 
place will prosper if we do our duty & we wash our feet against them. I believe in washing our 
feet against our Enemies. 

The spirit of God has been upon us for more than a year & the people would play laugh & trifle 
about it but if they had the spirit of God & done their duty they would have seen it. This has been 
my feelings all the time. I have felt that the people were trifling with the things of God. 

Brother Jedediah is fallen. A mighty man is taken from us but his power is here. It still rests upon 
Brother Brigham & myself & when we lay hands upon another man the spirit of God & of 
Jedediah will rest upon him in full force that he may do the work & fill his place as a Counciller 
to the president & I know it. May God Bless you Amen. 

Elder F D. Richards followed in bearing testimony. R L Campbell took minuts. He was followed 
by C. H. Wheelock Joseph Hovey G. D. Grant, D. D Hu[n/r?]t & Savage. Then Brigham Young 
said why we take the Elders for Missionaries who have just came in is that we Can set them to 
work while their armour is on for it has generally been the Case that soon after the Elders come 
in they throw down their armour & some are so far left to themselves they do not enjoy the spirit 
of God. In answer to the question of Brother Savage about people restoring what they hay stolen 
[-] in the first place I would say I would not steal but whare it cannot be restored I would say put 
it into the P E Fund to gather poor. Fori would not have any thing to do with it. 

A. H. Raleigh then spoke after which Hopkins Pend[on?], John M. Jones, & Joshua Midgeley 
were Called to go out on Missions. The Bishop with ther Council the High Priest & their 
Council, The First Presidency of the 70" & the Presidents of Elders priests Teachers & Deacon 
all are requested to meet with the Missionaries in this place on Monday evening each week. 
Benediction by Jacob Gates. 

Dec 9th I spent the day in the office writing the reports of Last Evening. I attended meeting with 
the Bishops. I herd Bishop Hunter speak followed by L. W. Hardy A. H. Raleigh & E. D. 

Woolley & I made some remarks. 

* <President Young gave me the following and said [Capt Wells?] [ — ] list of names of persons 
and families as [soon/seen?] by J M Grant. He began by saying all the destruction that [has come 
shortly?] upon this people. It will begin at [Carson Valley?] which is [— ]. It will be destroyed and 
part of [his?] farm. Colonel [— ] will be destroyed and many others in that place. The [-] that he 
manifested was [going?] to [end?] and [cut?] root and branch. [-] was or was [any/in?] 
[part/power?] of it any part of his family [-] was a [— ] of [ — ] it name [-] for a [-] to me a part of 
his farm [-] and while I am in the [school?] at that place while I heard also that to [-] that God 
may grant [-] it and would [allow?] us and [-] do [-] would [-] give would be part.> 

10th I spent the day in the office writing & the night at home. Orson Hyde arived home this 
evening. 


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1 1th I spent this day in the office. I had an interview with Elder Orson Hyde who had returned 
from Carson valley. He was in presidents Young office. President Young was poorly & not able 
to be out so Elder Hide went in to see him. Elder Hyde said that He was accompanied home by 
10 persons & named them. He Came home part of the way on the old road & part on the 
Beckworth road but I believe the old road is the best. We started the 5th day of Nov. We have 
been one month travelling on the way. The Indians fell upon Gilbert & Gerrishes train of 
teamsters & took all they had & killed a part of them. Elder Hyde travelled through snow from 1 
to 3 feet deep during the last 200 miles. No path ownly what we made ourselves. 2,000 sheep 
was taken by the Indians from the Mexican Heard going to Calafomia. Elder Hyde looked well & 
some [ban?]ged with his Journey. 

I attended the seventeenth ward meeting. Heard the Bishop speak a short time. I then talked to 
the people near an hour & the spirit of God was upon me. I then went to the 14 ward & Samuel 
Richards was speaking when I went in. He was followed by several others. I then spoke to the 
people a short time. Their was a soft quiet spirit upon me. I exhorted the people to keep the 
Commandments of God that they might be blessed. 

I wrote Letters to the f several Bishops in the Country to take Care of their grain & not sell it to 
our Enemies. 

12th We are having a vary severe snow storm. Much snow is falling. I spent the day in the office. 
I called at Presidents Youngs office. He is still quite unwell. Elder O Hyde H. C. Kimball & G D 
Grant & myself was in the office & H. Stout & J. W. Cummings had just arived from Filmore. 
The President soon Came in & they gave an account of their procedings while at Fillmore. The 
snow was two Feet deep on the road a part of the way. They arived at Fillmore monday morning. 
They met with the Legislature through the day. They organized passed some resolutions & 
moved the seat of Government to salt Lake City & Adjourned to meet in the Great Salt City on 
the /1 8/ day of Dec 1856 & started for home during the evening. They found it vary Cold & 
snowing nearly all the way home. 

^ \ On the night of the 3d inst. the night before J M. Grant was buried Mrs Batsheba Smith wife 
of G. A. Smith dreamed that George A. Smith was dead & that some other person wished to 
marry her which troubled her mind. On the same night Mrs Rose dreamed that George A. Smith 
was hung in Washington] by the members of Congress because he was a Monnon. 

13th I sealed up a document gven me by President Young & filed it in the Historians office. 

Snow is more than a foot deep this morning on a level. I spent most of the day in the office. My 
Son Wilford Woodruff Commenced to learn the shoe Makers trade with Brother Barston the first 
of this March. 

The following Dream was related by H. C. Kimball Nov 25 1856: 

Nov 25 I dreamed that I was travelling with a Companion & we came to a powerful rapid stream 


Page325 




of water like the Niagara River. The waves were rolling vary high & increasing in size. The 
waters had been muddy but were getting Clear. As we came to this powerful Stream we did not 
know how we should get over it. I turned my Eyes a few moments from my Companion & when 
I look back I saw him on the other side of the river & climing a steep hill. I did not know how he 
got there. I wanted to Cross so I called to him as loud as I Could to stop & wait for me but He 
paid no attention to me but went on as Hard as he Could. Then a person came to me & said you 
have an iron rod in your hand which I percieve I had several feet long. The Angel said to me you 
must use this rod & feel your way over the river & I awoke. 

I Considered my dream & interpeted it as follows: My Companion was J. M. Grant. He has 
suddenly died & left me & is [on] the other side of the veil. The waters mean the people that are 
increasing in s[tran?]gs & growing better & clearer. The Iron rod is the word of God which I 
must Cling to till I get through death. I consider ther is great things awaiting this people. 

14th Sunday It is a vary Cold Stormy day. Snowing vary hard. James Linforth And Thos. B 
Roderick spoke followed by Wm. Clayton & C H Wheelock. I then addressed the people about 
half an hour. S[poke of?] the Emi[grants?] that was in the Mountains. 30 teams would be in at 4 
oclok with 200 saints. They were diging through snow 15 feet deep in the mountains. The 
rem[ainder?] would be in to morrow. I exhorted the people to live their religion. I spok of the 
wickedness of the world & the shedding of the Blood of the prophets. The wicked would have to 
suffer for it in the future. We should live our religion. Then we will be prepared for any thing. 

At about 4 oclok the Emigration Came in about 30 teams with about 200 souls all in good order. 
None of them frozen & teams looked well. Their was but 2 inches of snow at Bridger but 15 feet 
in the mountains in places whare they had to dig through. 

I attended the prayer Circle then went home with L. W Hardy to his meeting in the 12 Ward. 

G.D. Grant Preached followed By Joseph A Young. They both spoke well. Joseph spoke upon 
the priesthood. It done my soul good to hear his testimony. I followed him & had the spirit of 
God resting upon me. I was followed by the Bishop L. W. Hardy. At the Close of the meeting 
Joseph A Young Carried me home in his sleigh. 

15th It is a fair day. The remainder of the Emigration all arived in the City to day about 30 teams 
containing about 200 souls it being the Last of the ox train Company. Brother & Sister Enion 
arived. I called upon them & offered to give them a home through the winter but they had 
engaged a room on Emigration street. 

I attended a meeting with the missionaries & Bishops. Meeting opened By singing & prayer By J. 
C. Little. W Woodruff said we have missionaries & Bishops from some 20 wards & I would like 
to hear a report from them all & I will give each man some [3?] minuts to speak in. Then all Can 
Speak. The missionaries all spoke then the Bishops. Bishop Hunter & J. C. Little spoke first. W 
Woodruff gave some Council. At the Close Bishop A. O. Smoot went with me to Bishops Hunter 
& we laid hands upon his wife & one Child both of which were sick. 


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16th I spent the day in the office. Elders Cumings & Blair Came in & we talked about the 
Presidency & the Refermation & future Events. Brother Cummings related a Dream that 
Presidency had a few days since as follows: 

<President Young dreamed that in 2 weeks [some?] [-] died about the> 12th Dec <that he died 
and in 2 weeks President Kimball died and the people were in the awfullest state of any people 
he ever saw. But I pray God it may not be fulfilled.> 

I feel strongly pressed in spirit that some great trials await this people & many will not be able to 
stand but will fall away. I pray the Lord to preserve the presidency of this Church. 

I called upon President Young a short time. Found him in his room in quite good spirits. I spent 
most of the evening in the office in Company with Bishop Hunter who Conversed upon a great 
variety of subjects. I went to bed feeling unwell. I dreamed of being among snakes & was quite 
worried. I was Called up in the night to go & administer to R. Ballantyne who was quite sick but 
being poorly myself I did not go untill morning. 

17th I felt unwell Yet I called upon Brother Blair. We then went to Brother Ballantyne. Found 
him quite sick. We laid hands upon him rebuked his desease & the spirit of God rested upon us 
& we rebuked his desease & he was better. He dreamed that He was about to die. Saw his Coffin 
& grave which was dug deep. Just before he was to die He dreamed He was invited to a wedding 
but He was to sick to go. He dreamed that W Woodruff with some other one came to him & 
administered to him & he was saved from death. 

After we administered to him we then went to Bishop Hoaglands & found him quite sick 
confined to his bed with the Rheumatism & also much troubled with Evil Spirits. We 
administered to him by the laying on of hands & rebuked the desease & Evil spirits. We felt a 
good spirit in administering to him. 

We then went down to administer to F. D. Richards who had been Confined to his house for 
several days but we found him up & in good spirits. I then Called upon President Kimball who 
had been sick several days. I found him up & quite comfortable. I sat & Conversed with him a 
short time. I then went to Presidents Youngs & saw him. He was quite Comfortable. I then went 
to the office & spent the remainder of the day. 

I rented my front rooms two of them to Brigham Y Hamptons who commenced keeping House to 
day. I attended meeting at the 19th ward during the evening & I heard Elder Hovey speak 
followed by Elder Earl then the Bishop. Brother Rolley spoke lengthy. I then followed then for 
some half an hour. I had the spirit of speaking. 

18th * The Legislative Assembly met to day at 10 oclok at the Music Hall according to the 
adjournment at Fillmore. The two Houses organized & we received the Governers Messengers & 
met in Joint Session then adjourned to their respective rooms then adjourned till tomorrow 10 
oclok. The Committees were appointed before adjournment. 


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I took a sleigh ride with S M Blair. Called upon Brother Enion. Found sister Enion in bed. Was 
unwell. Went to the office & spent the afternoon. It was [a] vary snowey day. I went to the 15 
ward. Waded through a good deal of snow. I herd 5 speech then I addressed the people for 30 
minits. I had the spirit of God. 

19th I spent the fore part of the day in the Legislature & the afternoon in the office. I conversed 
with the president upon chartering a Company for Cotton raising. He did not wish to have me get 
up a Bill upon that subject. S. M. Blair call[ed] in. Spent the time in Conversing upon a variety of 
subjects the Texan war &c. 

20th I spent most of the day in the historians office. At night I attended the high Priest Meeting & 
heard the representation of the Territory by the Delegate from abroad. They were addressed by O. 
Hyde, L. Snow, F. D. Richards & W. Woodruff. The spirit of God rested upon us & we gave 
much good instruction. 

21st Sunday I attended the meeting at the Tabernacle. President H. C. Kimball \ \ Spoke to the 
people after Elder O Hyde. Elder Hyde did not speak long. He spoke upon the subject of Moses 
leading Israel &c. Presidet Kimball spoke in the spirit & power of God till about 1/4 past 1 oclok. 
Leo Hawkins reported. In the afternoon Jesse Haven spoke vary well. Was followed by John A. 
Hart. 

Then I spoke & the power of God rested upon me & I called upon Elder O Hyde to rise up in the 
power of God & lead out as He is the President of the Twelve & awake up & get the Holy Ghost 
& the Twelve will follow you in the field. I called upon the people to awake & listen to the words 
of the Presidency of the Church. I attended the prayer Circle then walked to the 6th ward & 
Preached with F. D. Richards. The Spirit of God was upon me. 

22d We spent the fore part of the day in the Legislature. I took dinner with the Presidency & 
Twelve & members of the Council. I Attended the seventies Meeting in the evening. Elder O 
Hyde W. Woodruff L. Snow & F D Richards 'T \ of the Twelve were present & a house full of the 
presidents of the 70". 

The first business that was Attended to was to Bring up G P Stiles for Adultery. He imphatically 
Denied it although the testimony was strong against him. A P Rockwood was in the stand & he 
did not know what to do with him. I bore it as long as I Could. I arose in the stand & said George 
P Stiles I am going to put you a question & if you are innocent you should proclaim your 
innocence but if you are guilty dont you deny it before God the Holy Ghost & these witnesses. If 
you do the Judgments of God shall follow your footsteps from this hour till you go to your Grave 
& from th[is?] to Hell. <If I had felt the Spirit of God I should have said that the man [— ] without 
sorrow that will follow you to your grave.> He did not deny it nor acknowledge it. He was then 
Cut off from the Church. 

Elder O Hyde spoke. Then I followed & the spirit & power of God rested upon me like a Burning 


Page328 




flame & so it did upon Brother Snow & Brother Richards as they spoke & we all advised the first 
Presidents of the Seventies to go forward & present a resignation of their Presidency to President 
Young & let some men take the place who could magnify it. Hancock & Z Pulsipher said they 
would & B L Clapp spoke. We had the Spirit & power of God rest upon us like fire shut up in 
our bones & revealed many things unto us. 

I went home & I did not feel like going to bed. I felt as though I wanted to set up & pray all night. 

23 Note(7) ? \ I met in the Legislative Council. There was no spirit to transact Business. L Snow 
moved that President Kimball should give us an address. President Kimball said I do not feel 
much like speaking to day. I feel feeble in body, & want my Liberty to act as I am moved by the 
Holy Ghost. But He began to talk & the power of God Came upon him & he spoke for an hour. I 
followed him & the room was filled as with Consumeing fire & all the member of the House 
Came in & they all spoke untill sundown & the House was filled with the spirit of God almost to 
the Consuming of our flesh & many things were revealed which were marvelous. 

I attended the Bishops meeting in the evening. Bishop Hunter O Hyde W. Woodruff L. Snow & 

F D Richards & the fire of God still burned in us & many things were said. I never spent such a 
day & night in Israel. 

24d I spent a part of the day in the office. President Kimball came in & talked a while & I went 
into the office to see president Young & I reported to him what we had done in relation to the 
Presidents of the seventies & Judge Stiles in Cutting him off for Adultery & President Young 
approved of what we had done. 

I met a short time with the committee on the Judiciary. The 5 vol of the U.S. Statutes at Large 
was given me to examine to see what Laws were applicable to this Territory. 

President Young told me to go through this City & remove all the Stumbling block I could find 
& whare I found a Bishop or any other man that was in his way to remove him & put a better 
man in his place. 

In Company with F. D. Richards S Richards & Wm. Kimball I visited the 7th ward & removed 
Bishop Perkins & put in James G. Willie in his Place. This seemed to be necessary in order to let 
the work roll on. 

25th A snowy day. I spent the fore part of the day in the office. I took my wife & Bulah & in 
company with Brother & Sister Smoot I rode to sugar House ward & I Preached one hour to the 
people after Hearing from Carnes, Eldridge Wiles Vernon & Bishop Smoot. Brother Smoot had 
the spirit of the Lord & about the ownly man that did appear to have it. The spirit of the Lord was 
upon me & I gave them good Council. I rode home after meeting through the snow storm. 6 mils. 
(Turn back one leaf for 26.) 

26 A snow stonn. It is a cold stormy snowey winter. I met in the Council Chamber & adjourned 
till monday. I called upon President Young in company with Lorenzo Snow & F. D. Richards. 


Page329 




We laid before him several cases of Crime. He told us what to do. 


We all took a sleigh ride up into City Creek Canyon for some 3 miles & back. We then met in 
council in the Historian Office a short time. 

I met in Council with O. Hyde L. Snow & F D Richards till 10 oclok. O Hyde told his travel over 
the mountains last winter & how near he Came freezing to death. 

27th I spent the day in the office. It was a busy day with me. Many of the missionaries called 
upon me for Council. 

27 1 spent the day in the office. I attended the High Priest office meeting with the Twelve. We 
heard the report of several men. Then the Twelve spoke. O Hyde then Lorenzo Snow spoke with 
the power of God. Then I followed him & I felt the power of God & told the truth. 

28th Sunday I attended the Meeting at the Tabernacle. Elder O Hyde spoke in the morning upon 
the parable of the 10 virgins. I followed him but was some tied up. Was not free. The house was 
filled to overflowing both in the morning & afternoon. Lorenzo Snow & F D Richards spoke in 
the power of God. I followed them. I had the spirit of God upon me & I asked the people which 
they would do. Go to & get the power of God & sustain the Melchezedek Priesthood with the 
first Presidency & Twelve or would they reject it & have the presidency & Twelve & 
Melchezedek taken from them & ownly the Aaron[ic] Priesthood given them & a Law of Carnal 
Commandments. The people must do one or the other. 

I attended the prayer Circle. <President Young said that Israel would not be cleansed until some 
had their> * * * [three black dots]. I attended the ward meeting at 3d ward. I heard S. M. Blair 
Bishop Weiler & his two Councillors speak. I then followed & spoke an hour with the spirit of 
God upon me. The vision of my mind was open to many things. 

29th I met in the Legislative Council in the forenoon in council in the office at noon & in 
committe or the Judiciary at 4 oclok. 

I went j_ \ to President Youngs office with Elder Snow. We there found him & H C. Kimball & O 
Hyde. I Wilford Woodruff told President Brigham Young that we had drawn up a few lines for 
the presidents of the seventies to sign. I also said to him that I would not ask my brethren to do 
what I was not willing to do myself and inasmuch as I received my Apostleship from your hands 
I now surrender it unto you & throw myself into your hands & if their is any other hands man in 
Israel that you think will fill that place better than I do I will freely take it & not complain about 
it. Elder Lorenzo Snow said the same thing to President Young. Also did Elder Orson Hyde. 

President Young said as for you Brother Woodruff & Brother Snow I have never [known] you 
when you felt the responsibility of your Apostleship or was as well qualifyed to magnify your 
Callings as at the present time. But as for you Brother Hyde I will say if you do not magnify your 
Callings Better than you have done I shall object to your standing whare you do if nobody els 
does for you have not had the spirit of your Calling upon you. You have been trying to build 


Page330 




yourself up & not the kingdom of God. 

I remarked yes Brother Hyde the quorum of the Twelve feel this & have felt it for [a] good while. 
We want you to take hold & lead as you are our President. We want a leader & if you will 
magnify your Calling we will be with you. 

President Young made some remarks about Orson Pratt & said if he did not take a diferent 
Course in his Phylosophy & order of reasening he would not stay long in this Church. He made 
other remarks. 

I arose to go out. Brother Brigham said Brother Woodruff whare are you going? Come dont be in 
a hurry. I shall be Jealeous of you. Does not the spirit of God dwall here? I want men to stop here 
who has the spirit of God. It rests me. I am Crowded all day with men & things which makes me 
weary. I said I did not intend to be in a hurry. I had some appointments to which I thought of 
attending but I enjoy myself here & I like to be here so I set with my brethren untill meeting time. 

Then with O Hyde & L Snow I went to the 70" Hall & found the House full & F D Richards 
making 4 of the Twelve, we Called upon the seventies to speak or the Presidents. They all spoke 
& was followed by the Twelve who had much of the spirit & power of God & gave much good 
instruction. We still expressed our feelings to the Presidents of the 70" about surrendering their 
presidency to the Presidency of the Church. 

30 ? ^ I met with the Legislative Council in the forenoon. President Young was present. The 
spirit of God was present. The 15 Chapter of St John was read & commented upon. It was then 
moved that both Houses meet in Joint session. We then Came together & speeches were made by 
Lorenzo Snow W. Woodruff Brigham Young H C Kimball & Hosea Stout. 

Among the remarks made by President Young He said when the first Twelve were Called He & 
Brother Kimball almost needed a stool in order to reach high Enough to tie the shoes of John 
Boynton Lyman Johnson & Wm. E MCLellin. But now they are gone & we remain. Brother 
Woodruff & Lorenzo Snows sayes that they never have felt the wait of their Apostleship & 
responsibility as they do now. This I have known all the time. If Brother Orson Hyde feels the 
wait of his responsibility as an Apostle to day I am glad of it for it is the first day of his life that 
He ever did feel it. Many other remarks were made. 

It was finally moved that all member of the Legislative Body of the Territory of Utah repent of 
their sins & go to [the] font at 6 oclok On the Temple Block & be baptized for the remission of 
their sins which was Carried unanimously & the Legislature met at the font & had to fill it with 
Buckets from the Creek & as the Presidency & Twelve who had been here had been baptized F D 
Richards went into the font & Baptized Elder Orson Hyde & some 17 others. Then James 
Cumings went into the font & Baptized the rest also the missionaries 37 in number making [ j 

Baptized in all. We the Twelve laid hands upon Elder O Hyde & Confirmed him. W Woodruff 
was mouth then we Confirmed the whole Company. I was mouth in Confirming 9 persons & 
assisted in Confirming 12 others. 


Page331 




This was a New feature in Legislation. We believed that if we Could get the spirit of God we 
could do business faster & better than with the spirit of the Devel or the spirit of the world. There 
was 55 in all Baptized and Confirmed. The Twelve done most of the Confirming. 

3 1st I met in council with the Legislature all in Joint assembly till one oclok. There was a good 
spirit made manifest. They adjourned till Friday. I went with my family & took dinner with 
Bishop Smoot & we had a good time. 

I met with President Young & Twelve & the missionaries at the Historians office & we heard the 
report of all the missionaries & a vary interesting address from President Brigham Young who 
spoke in the power of God upon our Enemies & said the spirit of the Lord told him that inasmuch 
as he had delivered us through all our troubles thus far while in the land of our Enemies that if 
we would trust still to him & do our duty the Lord would bless us & still deliver us & that we 
need not have any fears. 

See the following page for the end of the year. 

Dec 3 1 1856 Thus another Year is closed & past & gone with all its train of good & evil. It has 
been an important year in the History of the world in many respects also in the History of the 
Church. The gathering of the people with Hand Carts the commencement of the refermation the 
Death of J. M. Grant, the great exertion to save the people in the snows of the mountains. But the 
following year I believe will be greater Still both with the world & Zion. I pray that the spirit of 
God will attend me & my brethren in the Priesthood that we may be saved from all evil & the 
power of the Devil and have power to build up the kingdom of God on the Earth. 

{========================= 


A Synopsis of my Labours in 1856 
I Travled four hundred & sixty four 464 Miles 


I Attended 55 Meetings 

55 Meetings 

I Preached 47 Discourses 

47 sennons 

I Attended 2 General Conferences 
I Attended the prayer circle with the 

2 Conferences 

Presidency & 12 

25 Times 

I Baptized 7 Persons 

7 Baptized 

I confirmed 268 persons 

268 Confirmed 

I ordained 1 Elder 

1 Elder 

I ordained 22 Seventies 

22 Seventies 

I set apart & Blessed 130 Missionaries 

130 Missionaries 

I administered unto 1 1 sick persons 

1 1 sick 

I spent 40 days in the Legislature 

40 days 

I spent 7 evenings with the Regency 

7 evenings 


Page332 




I spent 30 days making Manuscript 

for D[eseret] Alphabet 30 days 

I Held 7 meeting with the Horticultural Society 7 Meetings 

I Recieved 28 Letters 28 Recieved 

I wrote 6 1 Letters 6 1 Letters 

I was Appointed Assistant Historian & commenced labour in the office on the 1 5 day of April 
1856 & spent my whole time in the office except while in the Legislature up to this date. I was 
called upon to preside over the Missionaries in the City of the Great Salt Lake & I attended a 
meeting of some kind nearly evry evening in the week during the winter. 

=========================} 


Page333 




Endnotes 


1 (Popup - Popup) 

For Brigham Young's 1 January Thanksgiving proclamation see page 92; for his 4 January speech 
on sin and forgiveness see pages 92-97; for his speech on blacks and slavery, undated in the 
manuscript but delivered on 8 February, see pages 97-99. 

2 (Popup - Popup) 

Ezra T. Benson's remarks are interrupted in the manuscript by "A Speech of P. P. Pratt in the 
Council Chamber of the Legislative Assembly." (See pages 163-167.) 

3 (Popup - Popup) 

The asterisks and note are Woodruffs. The conclusion of Parley P. Pratt's remarks, which appear 
in the manuscript after the conclusion of Ezra T. Benson's remarks, have been Joined in the 
typescript. 

4 (Popup - Popup) 

The first line of the page is in Woodruffs hand; the other four lines, as with the corresponding 
page in other volumes, is in the hand of L. John Nuttall. 

5 (Popup - Popup) 

Beginning with "Did they do any better" through "the day will be when that will be done" (p. 

270) the text is in a different cursive hand. 

6 (Popup - Popup) 

15 May: A large slash and x appear through the text from the first reference to Phineas Young to 
the end of the entry. 

7 (Popup - Popup) 

The 23 and 24 December entries were originally numbered "22" and "23d" but apparently 
corrected by Woodruff. Similarly the 26 and 27 entries were originally numbered "25" and 
"26th." The second paragraph of the 27 December entry was numbered "27," but the number has 
been crossed out. The 25 December entry appears at the top of a loose page with the second part 
of the 3 1 December entry. 


Page334 




Volume 5 

Wilford Woodruff s Journal: 1857-1861 



1833-1898 

Typescript 

Volume 5 

1 January to 31 December 1861 
Edited by Scott G. Kenney 

Midvale, Utah 


Pagel 




Editorial Apparatus and Symbols 


See Editorial Procedures in Volume I for a more detailed explanation. 


[ 1 
[-] 

[-] 

[ty/try?] 

[ing] 

[Asterisks are Woodruffs.] 
<Distance> 

/and Joseph/ 


1 ===== 

=====1 

{PWW} 


Blank space or original unfinished. 
Illegible letters. 

Illegible words. 

Conjectural reading. 

Words/letters supplied by editor. 
Editorial comment. 

Shorthand text. 

Interlinear or marginal addition. 
Decorative or delimiting border. 
Beginning of entry enclosed by borders. 
Ending of entry enclosed by borders. 
Brief text enclosed in drawing. 


Symbols used to indicate drawings appear below followed by one, two, or three examples form 
the text: 


* all unique or infrequently used drawings 


Page2 




1857 

June 16 
June 23 
July 24 
August 13 
September 
September 29 

1858 

February 25 
April 
April 12 
August 17 

1859 

February 13 

July 13 

1860 

August 3 1 


1 13 1 & Ifj 

! D"* ** — 

5 iP is. sc. 

< (!l f-a £7, 

A 

A J JJ 

t M w 

I ^ S 

* a Q 

e M J Sk & 

P- — €5* 

. oo 



Volume 5 Chronology 


Joseph Smith journal discovered 

Learned of death of Parley P. Pratt 

Word arrived of Utah Expedition 

Time capsule set in temple comer stone 

Captain Stewart Van Vliet consults with Brigham Young 

John D. Lee reported Mountain Meadows massacre 

Thomas L. Kane arrived 
Evacuation of Salt Lake City 
Governor Alfred Cummings arived 
Federal troops entered Salt Lake Valley 

George A. Smith, Wilford Woodruff and Elias Smith directed to revise Lucy 
Mack Smith history of Joseph Smith, Jr. 

Horace Greeley interview 
Richard Burton visited Salt Lake City 


Page3 


November 5 


Elected to fill Orson Pratt's seatin Legislature 


1861 

April 2 1 Word arrived of firing on Fort Sumter 

May— June Tour of southern Utah with Brigham Young party 

{========================= 

Wilford Woodruffs Journal for 1857 


} 


January 

JAN 1st 1857 This new Years day Come in with a tremendious Snow stonn. I spent a good deal 
of the day with President Young & F D. Richards. Presidet Young gave us good Council & 
wished us to become Saviors upon mount Zion & told us in what way that we might \ \ have a 
crown of Glory in the Eternal world. 

I attended a meeting in the 8th word. I went in Company with S. M Blair. The House was full 
notwithstanding the snow was deep. I heard the Bishop & Council speak. I followed in few 
remarks & gave good Council but did not feel much like speaking. 

2d I met in the Legislative Council in the forenoon & done good deal of business. Also read the 
17 chapter of St John & 10 Chapter Heb. The spirit of God was with us & many Good things 
said. I held a Council with President Kimball & the 12 about the Missionaries & Bishop of the 13 
ward and at 5 oclok I called upon Edson Stowell who was vary sick with the Lung fever. I laid 
hands upon him & blessed him. 

I then went to the social Hall & met in Council with the Twelve President Spencer & the Bishop 
of the 13 ward. We spent the time in Council till midnight. The object of the meeting was to 
unite the feelings of the Bishop & Council with the missionaries. We had a good time and all felt 
benefited when we left. 

3d I spent the day in the office. It was quite a thaw. H. C. Kimball Came in & read a letter to his 
Brother Solomon. Then He set down & taught us good doctrin. He said that He did not Believe in 
this custom of Adoption \ that had been practiced in this Church. No man should give his 
Birthright to another but should keep his birthright in the linage of his Fathers & go to & unite 
the link through the whole linage of their fathers untill they come up to a man in the Linage who 
held the priesthood. Like a Branch of a tree the branch of a vine still abides in the vine that it 
comes out of it unless the vine is Cut of or the branch. It will abide in it. Now unless a man is a 
poor Cuss he should keep his priesthood & unite it with his Fathers & not give it to another, & 
the Lord will save our Father[s?]. Evry man that gets his Patriarchal Blessings & Priesthood He 


Page4 




becomes the Patriarch of his own family & should bless his own family. 

I attended the High Priest Meetings in the evening. John Young was President. Orson Hyde 
addressed the meeting. Was followed By W Woodruff & L. Snow. The spirit of God rested upon 
us in power & the vision of our minds was open upon the priesthood & its power & Blessings. I 
told the people that they did not prize the priesthood as they should & spoke of the great work 
which we had to perform who bore the priesthood in preparing this generation for salvation or 
damnation in redeeming our dead &c. We had about the best meeting we have had since the 
refennation. 

4th Sunday I spent the day at the tabernacle. Lorenzo Snow addressed the people & was followed 
by W. Woodruff in the fore part of the day & O. Hyde & D Spencer in the afternoon. The spirit 
of the Lord was with us & we had a good day. I attended the prayer Circle in the evening & went 
in Company with S. M. Blair to the 1 1th ward & I preached to the people & several others spoke. 
We had a good meeting. 

Daniel H Wells was ordained to the Apostleship & as one of the first Presidency & 2d 
Councellor to presidet Brigham Young. He was ordained under the Hands of Presidents Brigham 
Young & H C Kimball. 

5th I spent the day in the Legislator & I attended meeting with the Presidents of seventies. W. 
Woodruff L. Snow & F. D. Richards of the Twelve were present. All of the first Presidents of the 
seventies spoke & several of the Congregation also the Twelve. The spirit of the Lord was 
poured out upon us in a good degree & we had an interesting meeting. 

The Calafomia Mail came in this evening Bringing the Mormon & Standard. We learn that 
Bucannan is Elected as President of the United States which we would far prefer that He would 
be our president than Freemont. 

6th I spent the day in the Legislator. We dined upon a sumptuous dinner given at the Globe by 
Capt Hooper of Oysters, mountain sheep. Beef vegitables pies Cakes nuts &c. I attended meeting 
at the 70 Hall with the Bishops &c. Hyde, Woodruff & L Snow of the Twelve attended. We all 
spoke & had a good meeting. We red the news of the day. 

7th I spent the day in the office. I wrote 3 Letters to O Pratt the Standard & G A Smith. I met 
with the Missionaries at the Historians Office. The Twelve were present. We herd the report of 
all the missionaries & many spoke & we had a good meeting. 

8th I spent the fore part of the day in the Legislature the afternoon in the office in a committee. It 
was a stonny afternoon. A Brother Wm. Nelson called upon me to lay hands upon him & east the 
powers of Darkness out of him as he was sorely tempted. S M Blair laid on hands with me upon 
him & we rebuked the devil & powers of Darkness that was upon him & he felt better. I attended 
meeting at the 13th ward at the social Hall. I had a full house. I herd several speak & Spencer S I 
Smith Wm. Clinton. I followed him. Spoke quite lengthy & returned home. 


Page5 




9th I met with the Legislature in the fore part of the day & in the afternoon I met with the 
committee at the Historians office. I met with P P Pratt family & spoke to them about one hour. I 
then met with the Twelve at the Historians office & set till 10 oclok to hear an investigation of 
Isaac Hill & Brother Savage & the missionaries. It was a good meeting & good instruction was 
given. 

10th I spent the fore part of the day in the office. I started in Company with my family & John 
Pack & A. O. Smoot to Union Fort. We arived in the fort about 5 oclok & held a meeting in the 
evening. It was exceding cold. Several of us spoke. We spent the night at Bishop Richards. 12 
miles. 

1 1 Sunday I met with the people at union Fort. I preached to them. Was followed by A O Smoot 
& John Pack & the Bishops of the ward. We took dinner & rode Back in our Sleighs in one & a 
half hours. I attended the prayer Circle. 

I then went into Presidets Youngs house the Lion house & attended the 18 ward meeting in his 
school Room. The assembly mostly Consisted of the families of the Presidency. I preached to the 
Assembly for about one hour. I spoke of the organization of the Church & the Patriarchal order 
of the Church & the Blessings given us & exhorted the people to prize the blessings which God 
had put into their hands & not to treat lightly the Holy things of God. I refered to the Blessings of 
presidets Youngs family. Soon Presidets Young Came in & addressed the people for half an hour 
or more. The following is a synopsis of his remarks. 

^ ? A synopsis of Presidet B Youngs remarks Before the 18 ward Jan 1 1th 1857. The following is 
not recorded or reported in any other place: 


It is right that we should meet together often to pray sing preach teach & receive instructions in 
order to assist us to live our religion. But none of thes things or any of the ordinances of the 
gospel which we administer to the Children of men or to each other does not benefit the Lord. 
Our worshiping the Lord is of no particular benefit to our Father in Heaven but it is all entirely 
for our own benefit & in this light we should view it. 

Their is a doctrin taught from the stand & freequently taught in Public that we should follow 
Brother Joseph or Brother Brigham or any man who leads & do as they say & Obey them & that 
is all that is required. But this is a fals doctrin in one sense. For I will say that no man should 
trust to the testimony of another but he should go to God & get the testimony for himself. This 
evry man & woman should do. I might have heard Joseph Smith preache & testily of the truth of 
the Book of mormon & of this work untill he had been as old as Methuselah & in the end I 
should have snaped my fingers at him & said to him you are a foolish old man & turned upon my 
heels & walked off if I had not have had some other testimony besides his. But I went to the Lord 
& the Lord revealed to me that it was true & that it was his word & I received it upon that 


Page6 




principle, & I have lived upon that principle from that day untill now & it is the right privilege & 
Duty of evry man & woman to get the revelation of Jesus Christ for themselves & evry person 
should get the spirit of God & live by it. 

And if all would do this there would not be a man or woman unhappy in this territory & the flood 
of complaint which now salutes my ears of Husbands & wives complaining of each other would 
be done away. One man comes & sayes my family will not be subject to me. Another woman 
says my husband abuses me & I want a bill to get away from him and a thousand Complaints 
Come poreing in upon me none of which I should hear if the people lived by the spirit of God. 

You should all obtain the spirit of God & overcome your passions. When you get angry you 
should put a peace of Indiaruber in your mouth & bite it untill you Could get perfect controll over 
your passion. Do not speak while you are angry for you will say sumthing that you will be sorry 
for. But if you will keep your thoughts to yourself when you are angry they will not become the 
property of another. Any person who is acquainted with me knows that I have Controll over 
myself. I do not speak in anger to my wives, Children or the people. I make all my Passions be in 
subjection to the priesthood & the spirit of God. People Cannot fulfill their calling & do their 
duty unless they are filled with the Holy Ghost. 

I do not know that there is a female in Israel who is worthy of the appellation of a Mother in 
Israel. For any woman to raise up Children unto the Lord as they should do they should be filled 
with the Holy Ghost when they Concieve seed & continue filled with the Holy Ghost untill the 
Child is bom & weaned. Then the Mother should have the Holy Ghost to teach the Child untill 
He is Grown up. 

So the Father should be filled with the Holy Ghost when he begets a Child & he also should be 
filled with the Holy Ghost in order to train up that Child right. Then it will be Holy unto the Lord 
& will have power with God. These are true principles. The Saints should bring all there passions 
in subjection to the Law of God. 

I am learning evry day I live. I see some that will bear a testimony that they know that Joseph 
was a prophet & the Book of Mormon is true & this work is of God & yet if any thing is said that 
comes contrary to their selfish dispositions they will manifest the most Stoubom will & will not 
yield one hair from what their wicked dispositions dictate. 

I see it in families. One will growl because one drops a mop at their door or does sumthing that 
does not please them. They have no disposition to do any thing ownly for their own Gratification. 
But this is not right. You should feel like this: What Can I do to help you? I am not above 
helping my neighbor. Do you want your shoes blacked? I will black them. I am not to good to do 
it. This is the way you should feel for the Lord will reward you according to your work. Their are 
many in this Territory who are miserable. Why? Because they have not the spirit of God. They do 
wrong & get into the dark. But no person should be miserable who has received the Holy Gospel. 
They should be happy all the time day & night. Many other remarks was made which are not now 
brought to my mind. 


Page7 




12th I spent the day in the Legislature & attended meeting with the seventies. O Hyde W. 
Woodruff & L Snow of the Twelve spoke & Joseph Young who has been sick a long time Came 
out for the first time & spoke to the people. We were all glad to see him. The spirit of the Lord 
was with us & we had a good meeting. 

13th I spent the day in the Legislature & in the evening I met with the missionaries in the 
Historians office. We heard the report of the missionaries & the subject of the spirits was brought 
up & discused. They have begun to visit the Houses in the 16th ward and the spirit rapping. 

While we were in Meeting there was a visitation to Mr Jarvis House by some persons who broke 
the windows in & broke furniture & set fire to the House but his wife put it out. 

141 spent the day in the office & Legislature. In the evening Preston Thomas & S M Blair came 
in & spent a part of the evening. The remainder of my time I spent at home with my family. 

151 spent the day in the Legislature. It was a snowy day. I attended the 14th ward meeting. 
Several Spoke. F D. Richards & myself both Spoke. We had a good meeting. 

16th It was a vary severe snow storm. It fell 18 inches of snow. I spent the day in the Legislature. 
The session Closed for this year. There were many interesting remarks made by President 
Kimball & others at the close. 

There is so much snow upon Some houses there is danger of their breaking. People are 
shovelling the Snow from their roofs. Bishop Hoaglands roof of a large house broke in to day 
with the weight of snow. I shovelled off the snow from my houses. 

17th Snow is about 3 feet deep on a level this morning. It is cold. I spent the evening at home. 

1 8th Sunday I started some messengers for Rush valley to see about our Cattle as they are dying 
in most parts of the valley & Territory. I then attended meeting at the Tabernacle. Elder Lorenzo 
Snow, Daniel Spencer, D. H. Wells & David Fulmer all spoke to the people & had a good spirit. 

Sarah Woodruff was Confined & brought forth a Son ? 15 minuts to 2 oclok P.M. this day. 
Mother & Child doing well. 

I attended the prayer Circle in the evening & herd remarks made by President Young concerning 
the attack made upon the House of Mr Jarvis. He did not approbate the procedings. 

At the Close I went to the 17th ward & preached to the people. Brother Cummings spoke before 
me & Brother Wright & I followed them. We had the spirit of God & my mind was open & I 
enjoyed the meeting well. I told the people to seek for happiness by doing the works of 
righteousness & not seek for happiness by doing evil for that was Contrary to the principle of 
Salvation as taught by the Lord our God. I exhorted them to live their religion. 

19th } I wrote a Letter of recommend for John Ennion to Loren Farr & Thomas Kington & spent 
the day in the historians office. 


Page8 




20th I settelled my tithing to day with Bishop Hoagland & Paid for the past year 97.44 cts 
Besides my per Diem 12.00 not received in account but will come in in the Ap[...] year in 1857. 
Their is $109.44 Still a balance due me on Settlement of the tithing Books of $25.17 cts. 

At the Close of this settlement I went to the office & herd that Gerrish had just arived from the 
states but have not heard any definate news which he had brought except that the U.S. 
Government had appointed a post Master Marshall & Attorney General of our worst Enemies. 

I took my Horses & sleigh & Wilford & Susan & rode to Union Fort leaving Wilford to John 
Benbows to spend the night as I went down. I spent the night at Brother Silas Richards House. 12 
miles. 

2 1st I took into my sleigh 9 sheep & one lamb which I had * bought of Silas Richards & drove 
home & put them in a warm pen to save their lives. I spent the afternoon in the office & staid till 
10 oclok translating an address delivered By J M Grant to the 17th ward On the evening of the 2d 
of October. /12 mils./ 

22 I spent the day in the office looking over the exchangs Scraping & reading History. President 
Young had an interview with Mr Wm. Garrish who said that at the time that Drummond made 
out his papers vouching for the expenses of his Courts for the Govt to pay Marshall Haywood 
that at the same time Judge Drummond wrote for the Government not to pay them. Judge Kinney 
done all he Could to get the pay made from Government but He had $1,000 paid him for his 
services. Mr Garrish had some trouble with the Chief clerk at Washington the same man that 
Thomas Williams had trouble with. 

I attended the ward Meeting at the 14th ward. J. V. Long J W Cumings J W Johnson Bishop 
Hoagland, W. Woodruff & Bishop Hunter all spoke. We had a good meeting. I told the people to 
live their religion to sustain their Bishop to get the Holy spirit. I spoke against interfering with a 
roans family. That a roans family was his throne & kingdom & no man had a right to interfere 
with him. That many women would spin street yarn & go from House to House & try to turn 
away women from their Husbands & stir up strife in families. We had a good meeting. 

23d } I wrote a Letter <to Lydia Maxline> and sent it to Provo by bishop Blackburn. I spent a 
short time with Presidet Young. He said [J. D?] Brown might keep a daily Journal of matters in 
his office for the Historians office. <He gave me permission to marry Lydia Maxline.> H C. 
Kimball D. H. Wells & F D Richards was with the President. I also had an interview with Bishop 
Blackburn. It has now been thawing for several days. 

I met with the Twelve & Bishop Benjamin Brown & B. F. Clapp & George B. Wallace & Bishop 
Hunter on an investigation of matters in the 4th ward & his surrendering his Bishopprick, but it 
resulted in sustaining the Bishop in his Calling & office. 

O Hyde wished me to be on the watch for our herd. There was One [k?]ersey stoping there which 
he was suspicious of. 


Page9 




24th We started off a large heard this morning for rush valley. I spent the fore part of the day in 
the office. I rode out with F D Richards to A. L. Taussig tannerry. I attended the High Priest 
meeting in the evening & there was a good spirit. President John Young spoke. Was followed by 
W. Woodruff F D. Richards & D. H. Wells. 

25th Sunday I attended meeting at the tabernacle. I spoke to the people in the morning. Was 
followed by D. H. Wells & then Presidet Heber C Kimball addressed the [people] for about 2 1/2 
hours upon the parable of the vine including grape pumpkin & Cucumber, & Apple tree & took 
up the subject of all our domestic associations between Husband & wife parents & Children. It 
was one of the plainest sermons ever delivered to Israel. The Tabernacle was full. 

I attended the 13th ward meeting. There was a full house. Cyrus Wheelock Preached. I followed 
his & was followed by F D Richards & Bishop Woolley. I also attended the prayer Circle. 

26th I spent most of the day in the office councilling Journalizing & reading History. I was with 
Brother Richard in laying plans to save his heard of Cattle. The Seventies had a good meeting. I 
did not attend. I was unwell. 

27th I spent the day in the office reading history, writing, &c. I attended the missionary meeting 
at the Historians office & heard all the wards reported. We had a good meeting. 

28th I Corrected my Sundays minutes & spent the day in the office. H. C. Kimball F. D. Richards 
& A Cordon spent an hour or two with us. Brother Kimball preached a short time with us. The 
following persons held a Council in the Historians office: Bishop Hunter E. D. Woolley D. 
Spencer J. C. Little Leonard I. Smith & Cyrus Wheelock. I spent the night at home. I had a good 
time in teaching my family. A rainy day. 

29th I spent the day in the office. We are having a great thaw. It is warm & Cloudy to day. 

30th I was quite unwell through the night. Arose sick in the morning. I went to the office. The 
Presidency came in at about 3 oclok & spent the afternoon & evening in hearing the History read. 
We read up to the organization of the Church after the twelve returned to Nauvoo. We also read a 
part of President Brigham Youngs History. 

3 1st I spent the day in the Office writing Letters & office business &c. 

February 

Sunday Feb 1st 1857 I went to meeting at the Tabernacle & the House was Filled to overflowing. 
At the opening of the meeting A Cordon spoke a short time to the people. While He was 
speaking H C Kimball came in & soon President Young Came in & it Created a great Sensation 
among the people for it was the first time he had been seen in the Tabernacle since the day that J. 
M. Grant was buried. 

Brother Cordon soon stoped & Presidet Young arose & addressed the people for about 1 1/2 


Page 10 




hours & he spok in great plainness of the things of the kingdom of God. His words penetrated the 
Hearts of m[en\-any?]. The great assembly felt the wait of his words. 

He was followed by H. C. Kimball & D. H. Wells who spoke in an Edifying manner. All will be 
printed in the Deseret News. 

I attended the prayer Circle in the evening. When I arived there I saw a large company of men & 
women coming out of the Presidets Office. He had been sealing men & women from the Close of 
the meeting up to that time & had to turn away many which he Could not attend to. 

I Preached in the evening at the 2d ward school house. A Cordon spoke also Brother Tune & 
Bishop Hill. I then spoke about one hour & had the spirit of God upon me & the people with 
myself were Edifyed. 

2d I spent the day in the office writing letters. I attended the seventies meeting & had a good 
time. The spirit of the Lord was with us. The meeting was addressed by Elders Rockwood & 
Hancook a short time then followed by Elder Lorenzo Snow & W. Woodruff. Elder Snows mind 
run in a vary interesting Channel. The spiritual atmosphere seemed to be heavy when he arose 
but the spirit of God came upon him & he spoke in a vary edefying & interesting manner. The 
following remarks [we?] Elder Snow was written from memery: 

Brethren I rise to occupy a short time. I realize that there is a feeling with nearly all of this people 
that there is sumthing of great importance awateing this people. Some think that we will be beset 
by a great mob from the states others that we would have an insurrection in our mids & others 
sumthing Els. None of the people really knew that we would be met by a mob & that our lives 
depended upon our being well armed. You would see this people sell their coat or shirt to buy 
revolvers & weapons so as to defend their wives children & their own lives but I am satisfyed 
that there are scenes awaiting this people that will require all the grace & wisdom which we can 
muster to pass through in safety. 

Now for instance this people are makeing a great rush to Presidents Youngs office to get wives 
sealed to them. On Sunday night Presidet Young sealed men & women till it was time for the 
prayer circle to meet. Then He had to turn a room full out of Doors to wait another time. This 
spirit is increasing throughout this Teritory. Now do those who are taking so many wives realize 
that it will want a great Deal more power with God the Holy Ghost & wisdom to preside over 
that Houshold than it does to go to the nations & preach the gospel, build up Churches & 
organize them & preside over & controll them? If they do not realize it it is true. 

Now here is this great body of seventies & every other Quorum of this church should labour hard 
to arm yourselves with all the power of God you can get in order to save your families. If you do 
not you will soon find a stamped with your wives. You Cannot hold them. They will break from 
you. You need the wisdom of the Gods to rest upon you to save your families for if you do not 
have great wisdom you will meet with trouble. You have many wives & Children. This woman 
wants a gown that one a Bonnet the next one Shoes & their Children clothing & one thinks she 


Pagel 1 




Has to do more than her part & this one will not do what she should &c & the man has got to 
stand in the midst of his family like a God in order to calm the troubled waters & safe them. A 
man may Go to a ward meeting & preach & the power of God is upon him. He comes home. He 
finds one woman scolding & freting another one in tears, another one complaining & the children 
fighting & by the time he gets well in the midst of it hith [his] faith courage & patience almost 
fails him, & he has to rise up in the majesty of a God as it were & have Great wisdom faith & 
patience & exercise much Generalship & show himself a master spirit & a savior & a Fathers 
care & kindness in order to save his wives & Children. Here is a mission for you ye Elders of 
Israel. 

Look for instance at the example of president Young. Go into his house & take lessons. See him 
with his great family of wives & Children & see the God like Character & example of that man 
& the order which he manifests in his family. I tell you if it was not so you would see a stampede 
suddenly in that House but He is a great master spirit & manifests great wisdom in the perfect 
order of Government with his numerous family of wives & Children. They all respect him & 
obey his law for the wisdom of God is with him. 

Now brethren strive to bring yourselvs to the same standard. Become a patriarch over your own 
Household & seek to save them connected with order. You have to become a financere & you 
have to support your wives & Children & you want to live so that you can call upon God to 
increase your flock heards & Crops. This brethren is the greater work which you have to prepare 
your minds for. Almost any fool can go & preach the gospel but it requires a vary wise man to be 
a patriarch & save his own household. Many other interesting remarks were made which I have 
not room here to record. 

W Woodruff followed & said I have been much instructed with the word of Elder Snow. His 
words are true as the gospel & I bear testimony of its truth. I am watching the spirits of men. We 
come & meet with the seventies and with all other Quorums of the Church from the 12 down & 
watch the spirits & give instruction as the spirit dictats. This is not ownly our right but duty. 

Here is before me a vast body of seventies. The minds of this body of men must be fed. Your 
presidents should be filled with the spirit & power of God so that they can attend all the meetings 
& feed them & give unto them the mind & will of God. If they do not do this they will die & 
cannot stand for the minds of these seventies must be fed. But many of them who have been 
ordained into these Quorms have not prized the priesthood which they have had sealed upon 
them. Many times they have been so anxious to go & attend to some trifling thing that they 
Could not stop long enough to be ordained. At least as soon as the hands were off they would run 
& not stop to give their genealogy. Many of the Elders of this Church have trifled with the 
priesthood. 

There is now a call made to gather up all the Elders priests Teachers & Deacons that are not 
esspecially ingaged as teachers with the bishops to come forward & be ordained into the 
seventies. Now it does appear to me that the Lesser priesthood is necessary in the Church 


Page 12 




otherwise the Lord would not have esstablished it. The Hand Cannot say to the feet we have no 
need of you no more than the feet Can say to the hand we have no need of you. Almost all the 
Lesser priesthood are striveing to become ordained into the seventies. Now it does appear to me 
that the Lesser priesthood is necessary in the Church otherwise the Lord would not have 
esstablished it. The Hand Cannot say to the feet we have no need of you no more than the feet 
Can say to the hand we have no need of you. Almost all the Lesser priesthood are striveing to 
become ordained into the seventies while the bishops wish them to officiate in the Lesser 
priesthood. * See the star on the other page. 

* (From the back page.) The Bishops feel to complain & say the seventies take all of the Lesser 
priesthood which we have & ordain them seventies so by the time we get some teachers 
organized they are ordained to the office of seventies. The seventies also complain that the 
Bishops come & take away their presiding officers & the seventies & make bishops & 
Councellors of them & Ordain them High priest. So their appears to be a difference of feeling in 
the several Quorums. 

In order to avoid this I would recommend that the Teachers Priest & Deacons all that the Bishops 
wish to make use of as teachers in the several Quorum remain as they are untill they have 
magnifyed their calling & not evry man as soon as he is ordained a teacher go & get ordained a 
seventy & hide himself in that mighty forest of men so that He Cannot be found. For the 
Seventies are like a forest trees of all kinds from the tallest down to the shrubery & men get lost 
in such a forest. 

Men should not despise the lesser preisthood for it is honorable & if they fully magnify that 
office they will have great power & many blessings. For the Aaronic priesthood hold the keys of 
administering of Angels & their have been but few men even High Priest or Apostles that have 
enjoyed all the blessings that belongs to the Lesser priesthood. 

Then Let not the seventies seek to get all the Lesser priesthoods ordained into ther quorums. If 
they do I do not wish them to Complain if seventies are taken out to Make Bishops councillors & 
teachers of them as long as near’d all the timber is in that body. Let a man have what portion of 
the priesthood He may [if] He wants to keep it in lively exercise in order to save himself & 
family. *) Note(l) 

3d I spent the day in the office writing Letters to Correspondence & c. I attended the Bishops 
meeting in the evening at the seventies Hall. We had a good meeting. Bishop Hunter spoke 
followd by Lorenzo Snow who preached nearly the same sermon that he did last night to the 70" 
meeting. I followed him & bore testimony to the truth of what he had said. I was followed by 
Bishops Hardy & Little. 

4th } } I finished my Letters to my Correspondence. I wrote 6 Letters to the Mormon, Standard, 
Star, G. A. Smith J M. Bernhisel & Lyman & Rich. The Calafomia Mail arived at abot 2 oclok. It 
brought the standard Monnon & some Letters. Not much news. It also brought the star. I spent 
the evening at the office with L Snow & F D. Richards in conversation & had a plesant interview 


Page 13 




together. [] I received two papers of pear & Apple pie mellon seeds from C C Rich. 

5th A snowey day. I spent a part of the day writing & reading. I attended a trial before the High 
Counsel & 13 ward of Brother Cap[enan?] that was cut off from the Church after Hearing the 
testimony of both parties & remarks from the Councilors & decision of president Spenser. Then 
President Young delivered an address to the people a synopsis of which was taken by Brother 
Bolton delivered to me & filed in the Historians Office. 

He said a Bishop & his Councillors might cut off a man from the church whether any of the ward 
voted or not. He said should the people follow a Bishop? Yes if he is a righteous man & does 
right but if he teaches wrong things & does wrong the people should not follow Him. But when 
this is the Case let the people thunder out the truth as it is. Then the bishop will see it. But unless 
the people Can point some better way let them follow the bishop. See Boltons report. 

6th I spent the day in the office & evening conversing with the board of Directors of the 
Agricultural society. 

7th I spent the day in the office & then attended the High priests meeting in the evening. W 
Woodruff spoke first a short time & exhorted the High priest to prize the priesthood & not trifle 
with it or any of the Blessings which God has given you. The spirit of God was upon me. I was 
followed by Lorenzo Snow who spoke well in the spirit of the Lord & was followed by John 
Young & others. 

8th Sunday I attended meeting at the Tabernacle. We had a good day. James Cummings spoke in 
the morning. Had the spirit of the Lord & spoke much to edifycation of the people. Was followed 
by President Brigham Young who spoke at length in the power of God & gave a great deal of 
doctrin & information. He was followed by H. C. Kimball. All is published in the news. 

I attended the prayer Circle in the evening. President Young in speaking of a Blank in the History 
said that it was during that time in the fall & winter of 1844 that Sidney Rigdon preached his 
great sennon when he was going to take Queen Victoria by the nose. 

We done a good deal of work at that time on the temple, & it was difficult to get bread for the 
hands to eat. I told the people or the Committe who had Charge of the temple m[eans?] to deal 
out all the flour they had & God would give them more & they done so & it was but a short time 
before Brother Toronto Come & brought me twenty five hundred dollars in gold. The Committee 
& the Bishop met & I met with them & they said that the Law was to lay the gold at the Apostles 
feet. Yes I said & I will lay it at the Bishops feet. So I opened the mouth of the bag & took hold 
of the bottom end & gave it a jerk towards the Bishop & strewed the gold across the room at his 
feet & I said now go & buy flour for the workmen on that temple & dont distrust the Lord any 
more for we will have what we need. 

I went to the seventh ward to preach. I found Bishops Hunter & Willie Wm. H Kimball S M 
Blair & others present to preach. Bishop Hunter spoke first. I followed him & had much of the 


Page 14 




spirit of speaking. I was followed By Bishop Willie with a few remarks. Brother Pack spoke first 
However. 

9th I 1 My Father Aphek Woodruff was taken vary sick this morning with the Billious cholic. He 
had a vary sick day. I was with him the Latter part of the day & all night. I could not get any thing 
to pass his bowels. 

10th I called upon President Young in the morning & told him I did not think that my Father 
would live & thought I should spend the day with Him. He said that I had better do it. So I spent 
the day with him & done all I Could for him. I gave him about 3 oz of Castor oil & 4 drops of 
Croton oil injection evry hour of fedity lobelia &c. Still I could not get anything to pass his 
bowels. They bloated badly & all thought He would die. Dr’s Dunyon & Fr[emd?] both saw him 
& did not think that He would live. I was with him all day & night. I continued to poltice his 
bowels & during the night I got a passage & their seemed some prospect of his living. 

1 1th My Father had a thorough breaking up of his system & purging. He was thourely Cleaned 
out & a fair prospect of his living. 

I attended the female relief society at the 14th ward. The House was full of females quilting 
sewing & c. Mrs Woodruff was president sisters Horn & Southworth councillers & sister Pratt 
secretary. Bishop Hoagland spoke a short time followed by W Woodruff Joseph Horn & R. L. 
Campbell also Mrs Woodruff Horn & Southworth. We laid hands upon them & ordained them & 
set them apart to their office & Calling. 

I then returned home & spent the evening at home with Elder Thomas Kington. We talked over 
all our affairs which were many. 

12th My Father is getting better & it appears like a miracle that He is alive. I spent the day in the 
office writing. I looked over some of my old Journals & former travels. I spent the evening at 
home. 

13th My Father is quite smart today. I spent the day in the office reading History. I copy the 
following recept: Received at the tithing office G.S.L.C. Feb 12 1857 From Sanpete by Bishop 
W. L. Snow, 848 3/4 bushels of wheat 1,196 Bushels of oats, 21 3/4 bushels of Barley 1,970 lbs 
of flour and 1,562 lbs of Lead from the Los vegus mines. The Presidency spent the day in the 
House of the Lord giving Endowments & sealing. I spent the evening in the Historians office. 

14th I spent the day in the office on history & Joumallizing. I spent a short time with President 
Young. Brother Porter arived from Rush valley with Mr Louilla Hursa from Calafomia. It 
continues to thaw. I called upon Presidet Young at his office & read a letter to him. I then went to 
his sealing room & he sealed several Couple. I then read to him Backenstos Letter containing the 
name of the Carthage Greys &c which Presidet Young said publish. 

15th Sunday I attended meeting at the Tabernacle. Brother George Sims spoke in the morning. 
Gave quite a musical Physiological discourse. He was followed by Arropene the Utah Chief. He 


Page 15 




delivered a powerful discourse & exhorted the saints in the strongest manner to follow their 
leaders & do right not drink whiskey or do wrong in any thing. I followed him & told the people 
to lay that exertation to heart as it was given by a Lamanite Chief. I spoke at length which was 
reported by J. D. Watt. I was followed By D. H. Wells who bore testimony to what had been said. 

I attended the prayer Meeting. President Young had the minuts read of his discourse on the 8th 
Aug 1844 at the /re/organization of the Church. After this was read President Young said that he 
asked Br James to Preach a funeral sennon. He stuck up his nose about it & said if Brigham 
Young wanted a funeral sennon preached he might preach it for he should not do it. The Last 
time that I herd Sidney Rigdon preach He hi[sed?] for the fly & was going to take little Vic by 
the nose. He also said there is one thing I want done. I want to have these stores removed for they 
gather all the trash of the City. 

I went to 15 ward & preached to the people. I followed David J Russ. I had the spirit of the Lord 
upon me & had a good meeting. 

<1 spoke to President Young about my daughter Phebe. He did not wish to take any more young 
wives but would see that she was take up in due time.> 

16th I Spent the day reading History & on a trial of Graham & Porter. We decided that if Graham 
wished to claim the land He should pay Porter for the improvements. I attended the 70" meetings. 
A. P. Rockwood spoke followed by B L Clapp & Levi Hancock. Then Lorenzo Snow spoke at 
length & I followed Him & had a good meeting. 

17th ? In company with F. D. Richards I called upon President Young and asked him what I 
should do whare Council was asked of me either by the 70" or Bishops. Joseph Young Said to 
the Quorum of seventies that when they were Called to be Bishops or Councillors that they might 
still retain their place as Presidents of the seventies & not be ordained High Priests. Bishop 
Hunter thinks that they should Be ordained Bishops & High Priest. What shall I do about it? 
Presidet Young said if they would go their way & hold there tongue about it they might stand as 
they are & act as Councellors to a Bishop, but if they will not, ordain them. I said I thought that 
men ought to walk in the Channel pointed out for them & not complain about it. Presidet Young 
said yes let them do as they are told. 

I spent the day in the office reading History & Councilling. Elder L Snow & F. D. Richards was 
with me a part of the day. I attended the Bishops meeting in the eyeing. Bishop Hunter spoke & I 
followed him. I told the Bishops to impress upon the minds of the people the necessity of living 
their Religion after this date for if the people again Commit sin after being forgiven as they now 
were they would not again be forgiven but the Justice of the Law would be brought against them 
& they would have to pay the penalty or be cut off from the Church again. I told them they 
should not boast of their authority & power or that a Seventy was greater than a High Priest or 
that a High Priest was greater than a seventy. No man should boast of the power of the priesthood 
untill he obtained some of that power & it was manifested upon him & when that was upon him 
he certainly would not boast of it for the Holy spirit would teach him sens enough to know better. 


Page 16 




It is vary seldom that I have known the power of the priesthood made manifest upon the Children 
of men in our [time] to a vary great Degree but in some instances it was manifest as in the Case 
of the prophet Joseph at the time his [house] was full of the sick & dying & his door Yard & they 
were Strewed along the bank of the River for 2 miles & Joseph Rose up & shook himself like an 
old Lyon & commenced at his own tent door & healed all the people who were not dead on both 
sides of the river by the power of God. His voice was as the voice of God & the earth almost 
trembled under his feet as he commanded the sick to arise & be made whole. 

It was also manifest with Joseph while made fast in Chains & in prision in Missouri & his 
wicked ungodly persecutors gathered around him & while he was made fast in chains with his 
Brethren yet they goaded his feelings by boasting of how many murders they had Commited & 
rapes upon mormon women & how they had Cut the mormons to peices. Then they would 
blaspheme the name of God untill his spirit was reigned up & he rose up in the power of God in 
the midst of his chains & spoke as in the voice of thunder "Silence ye fiends of the pit. I will not 
live another moment & hear such vile language from mortals. Either you or I shall die right here 
or els you shall scease from boasting of such damnable deeds as you are guilty of." They quailed 
before his words like leather wilting in the flames & they bowed before him & made 
acknowledgements to him. This was done by the power of God. 

Again David Patten was taken by an anned mob under a United States warrant & when he was 
surrounded with an anned mob of about 40 men under the garb of Law & would not let him say 
one word in his own defence but he arose in the power of God & held them fast to their seats 
untill he addressed them about 1/2 an hour. He told them they were Cowards rascals & villans & 
he proved it to them, & they had not power to hann a hair of His head & they let him & Warren 
Panish go away. 

Again this power was manifest with President Brigham Young on the bank of the Missouri River 
at winter Quarters when the merchants brought up goods to sell to the brethren who were going 
to the mountains. Old Major Miller the Indian Agent was surrounded by officers & Miller in 
order to show his great power He told the merchants that owned some Alcohol not to roll a 
Barrel off from the boat. That He would knock the head in & spill it upon the ground. Presidet 
Young steped up & told the man to roll it out & if Miller spilled it that moment I will spill his 
clarrett. He & all the officers turned pale. The liquor was rolled out & nobody hurt. And other 
instances might be named whare the power of the priesthood has been manifest but these men 
have never boasted of it nor never will. I made many other remarks. I was followed by Lorenzo 
Snow who spoke well. 

18th I spent the day in the office reading history. Elders L Snow F. D. Richards & E. Hunter was 
in the office & conversed upon many things. I copy the following report from the presidency a 
month since: He said that is Presidet Young that He wished the Brethren at Carson valley would 
come home. President Kimball Said that I dont want to see the Presidents of the seventies in the 
stand untill they get more of the spirit of God for they are dead & the seventies have to receive 


Page 17 




their food through them. Brother Young said I do not wish to have Father Morley not to seal any 
more men & women without my Consent. 

I was troubled with the teeth ake. I took an instrumen & dug a stump of a tooth out of my Jaw 
that was broke off level at the Gum. It was a tedious operation. I spent the evening at the office 
reading history. 

19th I spent the fore part of the day in the office. I started at 3 oclok with Brother Smoot & our 
families for the sugar house ward. I preached to the people. Was followed by Bishop Smoot. We 
had a good meeting. I spent the night with Brother Smoot. 5 mils. 

20th I called upon Brother Hezekiah Pratt. He was vary sick. We laid hands upon him. I then 
walked to Brother Ira Eldridges with Brother Smoot. I conversed with him & Father Eldridge for 
a while. I then went to the Penetentiary 2 & went through it as inspector according to law. I then 
returned home with Brother Smoot. The rods were bad. 

I met with the board of Directors & re[ ] the list of premiums for the next state fair. Brother 

Cummings came into the office & red a report from his brother who had been exploring from 
Fort Hall salmon River to Bitter Root vallie. He gave a vary flatering account of this Country. 

I spent the evening at home. I had Company. Brothers Smoot, Horn & Southworth with there 
wives & others were present. 

21st I carried to president Youngs Office a Donation from the 14 ward Female Relief Society to 
the poor fund quilts & Clothing amounting to $126. 1 spent the day in the office reading & 
compiling History. I attended the High Priest meeting in the evening. Franklin D. Richards 
spoke. I followed him & was followed by Orson Hyde. We had a good meeting. The spirit of the 
Lord was with us. 

22d Sunday I attended meeting at the Tabernacle. S. W. Richards spoke. Was followed by D. H. 
Wells, W. Woodruff Z. Pulsipher. The spirit of the Lord was with us & many good things were 
taught. 

I attended the Prayer meeting. The Journal & travels of Benjamin F Cummings to Bitter Root 
Valley was read which was interesting. President Young said I would abandon the road that we 
have contemplated taking & cross at the south pass or wind River Chain. We will find a good 
pass there. The price of freight will come down when settehnents are made in that Land. There is 
a good place there to make a settehnent of the saints. I can tell you that we intend to fill many 
places yet if they will let us alone. Brother Cummings says that the mountains are much higher 
than here. That shows that the rallies are lower than here. Those Places are filled with streams & 
the streams with fish & the fish with Eggs. 

The subject of Claytons printing some revelations & keys Came up. Presidet Young said that He 
thought He should put a stop to people printing matter without his knowledge of their press. 


Page 18 




I attended the 14th ward meetings. The House was full. Brother Hunt spoke. Was followed by 
Capt Hooper & W. Woodruff F. D. Richards Bishop Hoagland & several others, S. W. Richards 
&c. We had a good meeting. 

23d I Spent most of the day in the office reading History. I called upon Presidet Young in the 
morning & asked him several questions which He answered. In the afternoon I went to President 
Kimball, & read to him his History. He did not think it full enough. 

I attended the seventies meeting in the evening. The meeting was flung open to the bodey of the 
70". Some 8 persons spoke including Joseph Young F D Richards & W. Woodruff a few words. 
We had a good meeting. 

24 I called at the office. Corrected one of my sennons in the morning for the press. I spent the 
day in the office. 

I attended the missionary meeting at the office. I made a few remarks. Was followed by G. D. 
Grant M. Atwood J. Cummings D. D. Hunt F. D. Richards & W. Woodruff. We had a good 
meeting. 

I said that there was one principle which was a pleasure to me. As an example President Young is 
appointed to lead this church. Now the Lord in looking upon his work when he sees him walking 
in the same path & doing the same things which the Lord would do himself if he were here he is 
pleased with it. And so with President Young. He is watching this people & he is watching us as 
leaders & teachers & he knows almost every thing which is going on throughout the Church & 
kingdom of God & if he sees us doing the same things which he would do & teaching the same 
doctrin He is pleased with us & seese that we are in the right path. It is so with me to night. The 
vary things which were resting upon my mind since I have been sitting here have been preached 
by Brother Cummings & Brother Richards. This is a Joy to me for it shows that it is the spirit of 
truth & that it reveals the same things to us all. 

251 called at the office in the morning & wrote in my Journal & spent most of the day in the 
office correcting minutes & Journal writing. I went to Br F D Richards House & spent the 
evening with Mrs Phebe Woodruff & Brother Richards family & Dr W. Richards family. We 
spent a plesant evening together. 

26th 2 ^ I went with my family into the Council House the first time I ever took my family to the 
Altar in the House of the Lord. I had my three living wives sealed to me & one that was dead in 
the following order: Phebe Whitmore Carter, Mary Fabvan Carter Deceased, Emma Smith & 
Sarah Brown. 

I then visited the family of Dr W. Richards & J. M. Grant. I then went to the office & corrected 
some minuts of one of my sennons in the tabernacle. I attended the 14th ward meeting in the 
evening & herd Brother Clements & Cummings speak. I followed them & backed up their 
testimony. I had the spirit of the Lord & had a good meeting. 


Page 19 




27th I spent the day in the office & corrected the minutes of Arropeene & my speech following & 
gave council to Allen & willow creek Bishop. I spent the evening Conversing with A. Carrington 
upon a grat variety of things. 

28^1 spent the day in compiling the Life & History of Samuel H Smith. I wrote 2 Letters to 
Orson Pratt & A Lyman & C. C. Rich also one to Phineas Richards Young requesting them all to 
forward us a brief History of their lives. I find it a great difficulty to obtain information 
Concerning Samuel H. Smith in any history or Journal. 

March 

March 1st 1857 This is my Birth day. I am 50 years old ^ * this day. I have been preserved unto 
this age through the mercy of my Heavenly Father. I have many times through life been snached 
from the Jaws of death by the power of God. I have lived to see much of the power of God 
manifest. I have seen much of his work displayed upon the Earth. The last 23 years I have spent 
in his Church & kingdom travelling & preaching the gospel of Jesus & building up churches to 
his name & I pray that the rest of my life may be d[evoted?] in his service that I may do the will 
of God in all things. 

I attended meeting in the Tabernacle to day. Joseph Young spoke in the morning followed by 
Brother Kimball. In the after noon Lorenzo Snow spoke followed by D. H. Wells & H. C. 
Kimball. The spirit & power of God rested upon the people & the speakers through the day. I 
attended the prayer meeting in the evening at the Close of which Lorenzo Snow went home with 
me. Took some supper. We then went to the 14 ward meeting. Vancott spoke followed by 
Lorenzo Snow who spoke upon Family Government followed by myself. I bore testimony to the 
truth of what he said. 

2d I spent the day in the office labouring hard to get up the History of Samuel Smith. I attended 
the meeting with the 70". Several of the brethren spoke. I followed him upon the subject of 
taking wives & family Government. Was followed by Joseph Young. We had a good meeting. 

3d I spent the day upon Samuel Smith History. I sowed in my garden some goosbury & Currant 
seeds & Cherry. I paid a short visit to Bishop Hunters. I attended the Bishops meeting & after 
hearing from Bishop Hunter & J. C. Little I followed & told them that there was one principle 
manifest which gave me hope & that was to see the spirit of obedience to the Holy Priesthood in 
our day. The savior set the same example & we are trying to do the same. We should labour in all 
of our work to do Just as the Lord would do was he here & as president Young would do. Then 
we shall always do right. 

4th This is my daughter Phebes birth day. She is 15 years old this day. I am quite unwell this 
morning with sore throat & cold. I spent the day in the office on History. 

5th I was quite unwell this day. My lungs were vary sore & tight. My family set out Apple, peach 
& plum trees to day. I spent a part of the day in the office. 


Page20 




6th Calafornia Mail is in & brought Monnons & Standards. I was still unwell. Spent part of the 
day setting out trees. Presidet Young Called & regulated John Smith blessing & D H. Wells 
blessing & Herd Samuel Smiths History read. 

7th I am still unwell. Presidet Young Came in this morning & Herd a part of his History read & 
Corrected it. I spent most of the day in the office. 

8th Sunday I attended meeting in the tabernacle. O Hyde Preached in the morning upon the text 
"Strait is the gate & narrow the way that leadeth unto Eternal life & few there be that find it &c." 

He was followed by President Young who preached one of the most comforting & interesting 
discourses ever delivered to the people. If we past our inspection ? before Joseph we probably 
should Peter & Jesus. Then we should be quite safe. If all this people did not go to a celestial 
kingdom it would be their own fault. But will all have the same exaltation & glory in the 
Celestial Kingdom? By no means. There will be but few that go there that will be crowned kings 
& Priests & Gods. There will be many millions in the Celestial kingdom that will not be exhalted 
to those hier blessings. This People are a good people & they are advanceing faster than any other 
people that ever lived. It would not be 120 years insted of 365 before this people would with the 
portion of Earth which they occupy be separated from the wicked. The Lord will bless this 
people. If you will do as well as you know how all will be well with you. Many glorious remarks 
were made by Presidet Young all of which were reported by G. D. Watt. 

I attended the prayer meeting in the evening. Presidet Young had O Pratts pamphlet read called 
the Holy Spirit & he made the following Remarks. After hearing it read He said that Brother Pratt 
had got beyond the Stars. He had Carrelled them & got beyond them. 

\ President Young asked Wm. W. Phelps by what authority he had proclaimed in Public that He 
(Brigham Young) was the man that the Lord said he would raise up like unto Moses. Phelps said 
Joseph was gone & you are left to lead the People. B.Y. That is no Argument at all. I may die & 
others be left. That does not prove that I or they would be the one refered to. If I thought I was 
the man I would not tel of it. But I think I am the great man that none of the prophets eve[r?] 
thought of or spoke of. 

Orson Hyde said there was a man in Provo professed to have a visit from a Departed spirit. He 
comes to him dressed in his temple Robs & the man he Comes to has not had his endowments 
and I want to know what you think of it. I thought the whole of it smelt Strongly of Brimstone. 

President Young said now if the people in Provo Can be made to believe that that is a true visit 
about the third time he Comes He will say that this Church is not led by the man that ought to 
lead it but the man that has thes visits will tell you that he is to lead the Church. Now I will tell 
you how you may know it is fals. A spirit will not Come to a man in the flesh without he appears 
in his glory & men Cannot endure his glory. A resurrected body may Come & hide his glory. But 
that visitation is false. It is not true. 


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I went to the 14th ward School House to meeting. O Hyde & many others were there as 
missionaries. Several spoke. I followed with few remarks & was followed by O Hyde. 

9th I spent the day in the office mostly. I set out some trees & grape vines. 

10th I set out Currant Bushes & grape vines. I spent a part of the day in the office. I attended the 
missionary meeting in the evening & had a good time. I spoke a short time at the close of the 
meeting. 

1 1th I spent the fore part of the day setting out vines & Currants the afternoon in the office. 

12th I set out 5 Almonds & 25 peach trees one Apricott & one plum in my Garden this fore noon. 
I spent the afternoon in the office. 

131 spent the day in the office. 

14th I spent the fore part of the day grafting Apples & pears. The afternoon I spent in the office. 
President Young called in & Herd History read nearly all the afternoon. He heard a part of his 
own history read, & a part of the continuation of the History of the Death of Joseph. I attended a 
feast at A. O. Smoots. Bishop Hunter J. C. Little & J. Horn was present with their wives. 

15 Sunday I spent the day at the Tabernacle. G. D. Grant Preached followed by J. D T. 

MCallister then by Brother Kimball who spoke at length. 

In the afternoon Presidet Young spoke a vary interesting sennon from the following text: "Who 
is my Father Mother Brothers & Sisters? They are those who do the will of my father which is in 
heaven." 

I attended the prayer Circle. President Young said he had the following dream: I thought we had 
a great crop of wheat. The whole Earth was filled with it all around. The Heads were vary long & 
there was so much of it that people did not seem to care any thing about it. Did not try to save it. 

I had to Continually urge the people to save the wheat. They said they had more than they wanted 
for this year. I told them to go to & save all the wheat they had then next year they could work on 
the Temple." 

President said that the King Philip Corn was nothing more than the Jumbo Corn. Some man 
plants an acre & takes great Care of it & he gets a great Crop of it. The way they got com so early 
they will take the ear that sets first & pull the silk out of all the rest then plant the but part of that 
Ear & they will make early com. Now that is the way with the best breed of Cattle, they keep 
picking out the best for stock, & that increases the goodness of them. Owen wanted his society to 
adopt this plan to take all the noble men & women & raise up a society. When they had a dwarf 
send him away. 

President Young said to Elder O Hyde you have been to both Jerrusalem & Zion & seen both. I 
have not seen either for I never have been in Jackson County. Now it is a plesant thing to think of 


Page22 




to know whare the old garden of Eden is. Did you ever think of it, or sens it? I do not think many 
do. Now Jackson County is the garden of Eden Joseph has declaired this & I am as much bound 
to believe it as much as I am to believe Joseph is a prophet of God. Many in Jackson county have 
found out that they cannot Cultivate the Temple Block & other places in that County. We must 
let the Lord take his own time to prepare the way for our return to that County & to build up that 
Temple. 

I went to the 15 ward & preached during the evening to the people. 

16th I spent the day in the office writing. I attended the meeting of the seventies in the evening. 
Brother Joseph Young spoke to the people in a vary edefying manner. Exhorted them to get the 
spirit of God & Edify the people. He was followed by W. Woodruff. 

I told them that I felt like bearing testimony to what brother Joseph had said. His teachings were 
Just & true. You Cannot edify this people without you speak by the Holy Ghost. A man may have 
all the Eloquence of a Cicero or the knowledge of the world Combined & he cannot feed the 
immortal mind of a Latter Day saint unless he speaks by the spirit of God. He may talk of visions 
& Revelations or any thing Els. Unless he has the spirit of God He will not edefy this people. 

Look at the teaching of the prophet Joseph. All other men might preach. Though many might 
preach by the spirit of the Lord & Edify the people yet if the people knew that Joseph was going 
to preach the people would pour out of their houses like bees out of a Hive. So with President 
Young at this day. If the people knew that He was going to preach they would fill the Tabernacle 
an hour before the time of meeting. His words are plain & easy but they are filled with the spirit 
& power of God unto Edification. I was followed by F. D. Richards who spoke well unto 
Edifycation. 

17th I spent the day in the office on the History of the Twelve & found great difficulty in 
obtaining any thing for the History of those who had apostitized. 

I attended the meeting of the Bishops. Bishop Hunter spoke & said he wished the Clerk to keep a 
strict Account of their meetings as it would make a good History. He Councilled the Bishops to 
finish the Canal & do all that is required of them. Joseph Young spoke. Said that was the first 
time that He ever attended a Bishops meeting in his life. He spoke vary well. 

I followed him. ^ The following is a Brief synopsis of my remarks: 

I said I fell to say a few words. We have had a good exertation from Brother Joseph Young. He 
said some had thought that we should have the privilege of coming to thes rallies & setting down 
& resting but he thought that we had as much to do as ever. I think so to. I am thoroughly 
Converted to the faith that we shall never arive at that period of existance when we shall not have 
sumthing to do. I believe our work will increase throughout all Eternity though we may not have 
to gain our bread by the sweat of our brow neither shall we always have to Cultivate the soil in 
the midst of thorns & briers. Our Father in Heaven is always busy. His kingdom & works are 


Page23 




increaseing & I believe it will be the same with us throughout all Eternity if we are saved. 

There is another subject which I wish to speak of. Brother Hunter said that He wanted the clerk 
to keep a record of their meetings as it would make a good History. This is a subject I have 
always felt interested in & as there are many branches in the kingdom of God so their should be 
some persons engaged in each branch. I have often spoken upon this subject & I have often 
thought that to many it was dry and uninteresting to many. I mean the subject of Journal writing 
& keeping a history of what transpires with us from day to day. I was deeply impressed with the 
importance of this subject to day while reading the History of the organization of the quorum of 
the Twelve and the remarks of the Prophet Joseph upon the subject. He said "I have for myself 
learned a fact by experience which on reflection gives me much sorrow, ft is a truth that if 1 now 
had in my possession evry decission which has been given upon important items of Doctrin & 
duties since the rise of this Church they would be of incalculable worth to the saints. But we have 
neglected to keep a record of such things thinking perhaps that they never benefit us afterwords 
which had we now would decide almost any point that might be agitated. And now we Cannot 
bear record to the Church nor unto the world of the great & glorious manifestation that have been 
made to us with that degree of power and authority which we otherwise Could if we had those 
decissions to publish abroad. 

\ Since the Twelve are now chosen 1 wish to tell them a course which they may persue & be 
benefited here after in a point of light of which they perhaps are not now aware. At all times 
when you assemble in the Capacity of a Council to transact business let the Oldest of your 
Number preside & let one or more be appointed to keep a record of your procedings & on the 
decission of evry important item let it be what it may let such decission be noted down and they 
will ever after words remain upon record as LAW Covenants & doctrin. Questions thus decided 
might at the time appear unimportant but should they be recorded & one of you lay hands upon 
them after words you might find them of infinate worth not ownly to your brethren but a feast 
also to your own souls." 

"Should you assemble from time to time & procede to discuss important (Subjects) or questions 
& pass decissions by & by upon them & omit to record such decisions by & by you will be 
driven to straits from which you will not be able to extricate yourselves & not being in a situation 
to bring your faith to bear with sufficient perfection or power to obtain the desired information. 
Now in Consequence of a neglect to write these things when God revealed them not essteeming 
them of sufficient worth the spirit may withdraw & God may be angry and here is a fountain of 
intelligence or knowledge of infinate importance which is lost. What was the Cause of this? The 
answer is slothfulness or Neglect to appoint a man to occupy a few moments in writing." 

" \ Here Let me prophesy. The time will Come when if you neglect to do this you will fall by the 
Hands of unrighteous men. Were you to be brought before the authorities and accused of any 
crime or misdemienor and be as innocent as the angels of God unless you can prove that you 
were some whare els your Enemies will prevail against you. But if you can bring Twelve men to 
testify that you were in some other place at that time you will escape there hands. Now if you will 


Page24 




be Careful to keep minutes of these things as I have said it will be one of the most important & 
interesting records ever seen. I have now laid these things before you [for] your Consideration 
and you are left to act according to your own Judgment.") (See record of the Twelve Historians 
office) /and History of the Church February 1835/. 

I have thus referds to sume of the words of Joseph to the Twelve Apostles at their organization. 
This Shows the feelings of the Prophet Joseph upon this subject. I have had this same subject 
upon my mind ever since I have been a member of the Church. I have been inspired & moved 
upon to keep a Journal & write the affairs of this Church as far as I Can. I did not understand why 
my feelings was exercised so much in the early age of this Church but I understand it now. I 
seldom ever heard Brother Joseph or the Twelve preach or teach any principle but what I felt as 
uneasy as a fish out of water untill I had written it. Then I felt right. I could write a sermon of 
Josephs a week after it was delivered almost word for word & after it was written it was taken 
from me or from my mind. This was a gift from God unto me and I have kept a Journal of almost 
evry day of my life for the last 24 years. 

I could tell each day what I had done, what Company I was in & what was transpiring around me 
and any teachings or councils from the presidency of the Church except whare I knew that 
reporters had written there discourses & I have urged this same Course upon the Twelve & all the 
Corums of the Church to keep a record of there meetings & the dealings of God with them & for 
all men who bear the Priesthood to keep a record of their lives esspecially of all their official acts 
in the Church & kingdom of God. 

You may say that this is a great deal of trouble. Vary well. It has been to me in one sens. It has 
occupied nearly evry leasure moment of my time for 24 years. But what of it? I have never spent 
any of my time more profitably for the benefit of mankind than in my Journal writing for a great 
portion of the Church History has been Compiled from my Journals & some of the most glorious 
Gospel Sermons truths & revelations that were given from God to this people through the mouth 
of the Prophets Joseph, Brigham, Heber & the Twelve Could not be found upon the Earth on 
record ownly in my Journals & they are Compiled in the Church History & transmitted to the 
Saints of God in all future Generations. Does not this pay me for my trouble? It does. 

In many instances in this Church men have been appointed Clerks to write for the church. They 
have kept the records instead of delivering them to the President of the Church whare they 
belonged & some they would appostitize. Then they would insult the Church by offering to sell 
them their own records at an enormous price. I have deposited my records & Journals in the 
Historians office whare I hope they may do some good. 

We have had a vary interesting time this winter during the referamation among the Latter day 
Saints. The Spirit & power of God has been poured out in a wonderful manner & many glorious 
truths have been revealed through the presidency Twelve & others & in the various quorums 
meeting. Now Should not their be a record kept of these things? In the commencement of these 
meeting the Clerks took quite full reports but thinking it to much trouble they now take them 


Page25 




vary short & we can hardly get an outline of the real facts of our meetings & the power of God & 
the dealings of God with us. 

Evry man should writ a brief history of his life his parentage, His birth his religion when he was 
baptized & by whom when ordained what to & by whome give a brief sketch of all his missions 
& of all his offical acts & the dealings of God with him. Then if He was to die & the Historians 
wished to publish his history they would have sumthing to go by. Many may think this a dry 
subjet & unimportant but it is not so to me. 

I am now trying to get up a history of the TWelve Apostles as first organized. Half of them are 
now out of the Church & scarsly any record left whareby I Can get a corret knowledge of their 
ministry or work & some of those who remain & are labouring to build up the kingdom of God 
have not kept a record of their missions ministry offical acts & decission upon important subjects 
& the gifts graces & dealings of God with them sufficient to give a true & Correct History of 
their lives. 

Their are but few aside from the presidency of this Church who felt the importance of this subjet 
sufficent to put it in practice. It may be considered by some not important to write or keep a 
record of our work or the work of God but I believe it is. Otherwise the Prophets would not have 
been moved upon to exhort us to faithfulness upon this subject. The Lord has told us that what 
we seal on Earth shall be sealed in heaven & what we record on Earth shall be recorded in 
heaven & what is not sealed or recorded on Earth is not sealed or recorded in heaven. Therefore 
it appears to be vary important that we do keep a true & faithful record in all things. 

While walking in a rapid stream we cannot tread twice in the same water neither can we Spend 
twice the same time. When we pass out of that door the work of this meeting will be closed to us 
forever. We shall never spend the time of this evening again. Then should we not keep a record 
of our work teachings & council which we give in this meeting? We should. 

Again Elders go forth upon missions to the Nations of the Earth. They have to Enter into a 
regular warfare. The Lord pours out his Holy Spirit upon them & they war with the world the 
flesh, & the Devil, with kings, princes, Lords, Presidents & rulers. He is Cast into prision. The 
Lord delivers him. The Devil enters into some of his Converts & He lays hands upon them & he 
Cast them out. The saints are sick & he heals them. He prophesies in the name of the Lord & his 
words come to pass. Rulers declair that He Shall not preach to the people on pain of death. He 
preaches the word of God & many believe obey & rejoice in the Lord & he is protected by the 
power of God. 

He goes upon the Sea. The storms rage & he calms the water & wind in the name of the Lord. He 
is shielded & guarded by angels of God all the day long & he knows the power of God is with 
him & reveals unto him all the evils that lie in his path. And yet he does not view thise great & 
important things of value enough to make a record of them to spend a short time in writing them 
& the circumstances & history of those blessings unto him are lost both to the present & all 
future Generation. 


Page26 




Are these things wright? I do not believe they are. I do not believe a man is Justified in 
neglecting to record these things. 

Now as an example Should the Ten lost tribes of Israel suddenly Come pouring down upon us in 
the Land of Zion Led by the Holy prophets of God what would be one of the first inquiries we 
should make of them? It would be whare are your records & history & the revelations & dealings 
of God with you since you were lead away under Shahnanezar king of Asyria? O do let me see 
them & read them & do let me [read] the Journal of your travels from the North Country to Our 
land of Zion. 

And what would be our disappointment should the prophets & Elders Say O we have not got any 
history of the dealings of God with us nor any Journal of our travels. We used to hear our Fathers 
say that there hab been great & mighty things done in the Land whare we lived. The savior come 
& taught great & marvellous things & we had a glorious time in coming here. We smote the 
rocks & the mighty mountains of Ice fell down with a great noise & great miracles were wrought 
but our Fathers had so much to do & we have had so much to do that we never had any time to 
write any thing about it & we did not think that any body would have any interest in it but 
ourselves & so we did not write. 

Would we not be awfully disappointed? We should & so with them should they ask for our 
records & say that Jesus & the Angels had told us that you was building up Zion & doing a great 
work in the Earth & that great & glorious things were revealed unto you & we now wish to read 
these things & Should we tell them that we had done as they had that we had not kept a record of 
any of these things they would be like ourselves much disappointed. 

But if they & ourselves Should both keep a Strict record of all that is useful then it would add 
great Joy to both them & us. Then let us lay these things to heart & keep a true & faithful record 
that we may be Justified befor God. 

18th I spent the day in the office on History. I spent the evening at home. 

19th I Spent this day in the office on History. I Commenced the History of the Twelve Apostles. I 
find it difficult to get much history of some of the first Twelve who have apostitize & left the 
Church. 

20th I spent most of the day in the Office Journal writing & on History of the Twelve. Luke 
Johnson was with me in the evening. 

21st £ I bought an Indian boy of Brother Willis this morning abot 6 years old. His Indian name 
was Saroquetes. We call him Nephi. He appears like a smart active good boy. I paid $40 for him. 
I am in hopes to Educate him & prepare his mind that He may some day be useful in preaching to 
his tribe of the Piedes. I sowed some Australia wheat & french Oats & peas to day. 

22d Sunday I attended meeting in the Tabernacle. F D Richards spoke in the morning followed 


Page27 




by W. Woodruff & H. C. Kimball in the afternoon Elder Wheelock Wm. Kimball & D. H. Wells 
in the afternoon. We had a good meeting. 

I attended the prayer meeting in the evening. President Young said we have got to send men to 
the Islands to liberate those who are there. We would gather the saints from there but the laws are 
against it. F. D. Richards said their was abot 60 saints in Dresden. President Young said the Lord 
would soon open the way for the gospel in those Governments. I would like to send some Elders 
to Siberia and also to the Japanees Islands with Proper papers. The Lord will soon open the way 
in the world. 

I attended the 16th ward meeting this evening & Preached to the people. The spirit of the Lord 
was with me & we had a good meeting & some to the [ ]. 

23d Monday I met at the 14th ward School House with the Bishop & members of the ward & I 
dedicated the new Font for Baptizing. A Hymn was was sung & I offered up the dedication 
Prayer & said, O God the Eternal Father we bow before the in the Name of Jesus Christ & by 
virtue of the Holy Priesthood to dedicate & Consecrate this ground & Baptismal Font unto the 
Lord our God. We Pray for thy blessing O Lord to rest upon us in this Holy Ordinance. We 
dedicate this ground & this Font & the water which it contains unto the name of the Lord and we 
pray thee to Bless & sanctify this Ground & Font & may it be Holy before thee & the water 
which is in the Font & may thy power & Holy spirit rest upon the Bishop of this ward & his 
Councellors and upon evry man who goeth down into this Font to baptize the children of men. 
May no unclean thing enter into this Font or any one come into it to be baptized unworthyly & 
may thy blessings rest upon all men who shall administer in thy name in this Font & upon all 
who shall be administerd unto by thy servants & we pray that the inhabitants of this word shall 
lay aside all their sins & evils & may thy blessings rest upon them. We ask the Holy Father to 
except of this dedication & consecration at our hands which we offer unto thee in the Name of 
thy Son Jesus Christ Amen. 

At the close of the prayer Elder Franklin D Richards went into the Font & Baptized his Father 
Phineas Richards & abut 40 others. I went into the school House & assisted in confirming 1[4?]. 
Samuel W Richards was mouth in the Confermation of his Father. The Elders Continued to 
Baptize & Confirmed members of the 14 ward through the day. 

I met in Council with the Rush valley Herd Company and we decided to bring over all the Heard 
& deliver them to the owners. 

I attended A Councel with the Presidency & Twelve & others on the Case of Bishop Hoagland & 
his wife Agnes. She brought a Complaint against him that He did not pay attention enough to her 
& provide well enough for her. After hearing the matter on both sides Presidet Young said now 
go & do right & let Bishop Hoagland Baptise you the same as the rest of the ward. I do not wish 
to say much about this case but I think many things that I do not want to say. 

Their is many women that care more about their Husband sleeping with them than they do about 


Page28 




God or his kingdom & if a man was to submit to such women he would not be worth shucks in 
building up the kingdom of God. I have got some such women & I visit them one a year or once 
in 3 years as I please & they may go to heaven or Hell just as they please. I shall not turn away 
from the work of God for any woman. 

If the people will follow the Council of the 14th ward Bishop they will be led into the kingdom 
of God & so will Agness but she wants pillow council instead of ward council. Well now if 
Agnes never haves any more pillow Council or private Council take the Council which he gives 
to the whole ward & you will be saved. Men must attend to the duties of the kingdom of God 
first before any other object. And Now Agnes go home & do right & Brother Hoagland go & 
Baptize her if she wishes to be & so here the matter droped. 

I attended the council of Seventies at the 70" Hall. Hosea Stout D Candlin & D Willkie addressed 
the meeting. Was followed by W Woodruff & F. D. Richards. We had a good meeting. I received 
6 of my sheep to night From Thomas Kington. 

24th I sent my men to rush valley this morning with my sheep to Luke Johnson. I sent 15 sheep 
& 3 Lambs & a Letter of instructions. L. W. Haywood got in from the East last night. The 
Eastern Mail got in to day. I received 17 Letters from [] G A. Smith 4 John Taylor 2 Erastus 
Snow 1 B Kelsey 1 (& many papers & Letters to the Presidency) Joel M. Berry 2 John M. 
Bernhisel 2, E. T. Benson 1. 1 spent a part of the day in the Presidents office Hearing his Letters 
Read. I spent the evening at home. 

25 I spent the day in the office reading & writing. I had an interview with Joseph L. Haywood. 

He had a hard time of it. He wintered at Devils Gate. One month He with the whole Company 
lived upon vary poor beef with Nothing els. The next month the whole Company lived upon raw 
hide alone rosted boiled & any way they could cook it. It was hard fare but they lived through it. 
He said He had quite an experience in Cooking rawhide. They also came near perishing in the 
Snow. One morning while having a large fire of Dry wood to Cook their breakfast their came 
such a Storm that it put out all their fire & froze up their Breakfast before their Eyes. They had to 
pack up & [went] on without their Breakfast. They had to make a great exertion to save the mail 
at all. 

The letters which I got from the Brethren were dated last Sept & October & July. This ownly 
brought last Oct mail. 

26th I spent the fore part of the day in the office. The evening I spent At J. C. Littles in Company 
with Bishops Hoagland, Smoot, Hardy Horn & E D Hunter with their families. We had a pleasant 
time. 

27th I spent the day in the office writing to Correspondence. 

28th I spent this day in the office writing to Correspondence. 

29th Sunday I attended meeting at the Tabernacle. Joseph L. Haywood spoke in the morning 


Page29 




followed by Capt Wm. Hooper, R. T. Burton & Presidet Brigham Young. In the afternoon it 
rained & Hailed vary hard & the people went into the tabernacle. They held the meeting in the 
bowery in the forenoon. O Hyde & H. C Kimball & T. D. Brown Preached in the afternoon. I 
attended the Prayer Circle in the evening. H Eagan got in today ahead of the mail. 

30th I spent the day in the office writing letters & on History. I attended the Bishops meeting in 
the evening. Bishop Hunter spoke in the evening. Was 

/3 1st/ followed by O Hyde who spoke upon the Subject of sending to the States for sheep. I 
followed & exhorted the bishops to teach the people to take care of what they had got & tie up 
their bucks till a suitable time so the Lambs could come in April when there was a plenty of grass 
so the Lambs Could live & also take Care of your calves & save your stock which the Lord has 
given you & not [let] it die as we have done. 


April 

April 1st 1857 I finished my Corresponding letters to day. } } I wrote 8 Letters to the Following 
persons: J. Taylor G. A. Smith E. Snow J. M. Bernhisel Joel M [Pa?]rry I F. Carter Wm. R 
Prince & co O Pratt & E. T Benson. I sent Wm. R. Prince &c some seeds of Mus[keret?] & 
Mus[kscrow?] & serves buries. I met in council with the Rush valley herd company at the 
Historians office untill 10 oclok. 

2d I spent the day in the office writing history. 

3d * Our rush valley heard came in to day & I spent the whole day in the office stray pen 
delivering Cattle & keeping an account of the same & half of the night making out Bills. 

4th I also spent this day delivering Cattle & till night & I was sick & weary. 

5th Sunday I did not attend meeting in the forenoon. Elder H. C. Kimball Preached in the 
afternoon. I attended. Presidet Young preached. I attended Prayer meeting & preached in the 14 
word in the evening. 

April 6th 1857 The General Conference of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter day Saints met at 
the bowery at 10 oclok. Conference opened by prayer by H. C. Kimball. President Young made 
some remarks concerning sending missionaries abroad. Would send many to the states if He 
could get those of the right stripe. There was a Great difference in men in preaching. Spoke of 
Brother Clapp in Texas & the Twelve in London. The Statistical account of the financial affairs 
of the Church was read. 

In the afternoon D. H. Wells & H. C. Kimball spoke followed by Presidet B. Young who 
delivered a vary interesting account upon practical economy. 

I attended the 70 meeting in the evening at the 70 Hall & had a full House & a good time. I spoke 
a short time to them. I followed Joseph Young. O Hyde attended the High Priest meeting. 


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Presidet B. Young spoke to them. 

7th The Conference held through the day. President Young spoke of O. Hyde & F. D. Richards 
and Chastized their Errors vary Severely. Many spoke during the day. 

I met with the Missionaries in the evening at the basement of the Social Hall. 4 of the Twelve 
were there viz O. Hyde W Woodruff L. Snow & F. D. Richards. I addressed the missionaries. 
Was followed by O Hyde L Snow F. D. Richards Joseph Young & others. 

8th I Received a large Can of Choice Apple grafts for the Deserett Agricultural & Manufacturing 
Society & I met with the board in the morning to distribut them. 

I attended the Conference through the day. The vast Congregation of people some 10 thousand 
were adressed by B Young H. C. Kimball D H Wells O Hyde W Woodruff L Snow F D Richards 
John Young Joseph Young Joseph A Young Wm. Kimball & B. Clapp. We had a vary good 
meeting. A great amount of good teaching was given. 

Among other things Presidet Young said that Babes & Children gazed upon Angels a great deal 
& they were innocent before God & when they was brought up properly they would always be 
Holy men & women before the Lord. Among other teaching the people were exhorted to plant 
build & set out Fruit trees. At the Close of the meeting I let the brethren have about 300 peach 
trees. 

9th The Conference assembled at 9 oclok. President Young said I give this Conference now into 
the hands of the Twelve. The Twelve then Called upon many by name to Come to the stand & 
the people were addressed by O. Hyde W. Woodruff L Snow Presidet Brigham Young H. C. 
Kimball Brigham Young jr Stephen Taylor, Parley P Pratt jr. Orson Pratt Jr. John Young & many 
other Young men. Heber John Richards. There was much of the spirit of God with the people. At 
the close of the Conference Presidet Young Blessed the people & they ajourned at noon untill the 
6th of next October. I spent the afternoon at home but the evening I spent at the Historians office. 

10th I spent the fore part of the day in the office. In the afternoon it blew almost a Hurrycane yet I 
assisted Brother Oliphant to graft some Cherries plums & pears. I met with the Rush valley Herd 
Company to settle business. Staid till near midnight. I went to bed sick & was quite unwell all 
night. 

1 1th I arose quite unwell. Spent a short time in my garden & went to the office. 

12th Sunday I attended the meeting at the Tabernacle. Franklin Woolley [spoke] followed by 
Clinton Miner, Whitney & Wells in the afternoon Broth Chase, Presidet Young, & O Hyde in the 
afternoon I attended the prayer Circle then went & took supper with J. C. Little & preached in the 
13th ward. Was followed by Joseph Young & Lorenzo Snow & Bishop Woolley. We had a good 
meeting. I Blessed a Child of Jesse C. Little, Called Jedediah M. Grant. He had a great Blessing. 

131 delivered into the Hands of F. D. Richards 5 sheep & 2 lambs. I spent the fore part of the day 


Page3 1 




in the office. In the afternoon I attended Charles while in grafting my orchard. 


14th I spent the day most of it in grafting my Apple Orchard. I grafted the following kinds intomy 
Apple orchard: 


Sweet Summer Pearmain 
Winter Pearmain 
Yellow Newton Pippin 
Rhode Island Greening 
Allexander 
Virginia Greening 
Golden Russett 
Fall Beauth 
Milam Peaks Plesant 
Early June, Early Harvest 
Baldwin, Tolpoy Hockien 


Wine sap = 20 Ounce 
Winter Queen Newark King 
June Eating 
Esop Spitzenburgh 
Mother Portor 
Red June 

Williams Early red 
Summer Painnain 
Red Astrocan 
Golden Sweet 
Rainbo or Seek no further 
Fall Pippen 


I also put in the following Pears: Bartlet Bergamont Julienne White Doyenne /& Bartlet/. The 
following Plums: Sweet Damson Smiths Orleans & Co[..] Golden Drop. Cherries: Black 
Tortonian. 7 Grafts of Quinces from Calafomia. 


While going to the office I saw Thomas Williams at the Council House drunk & swareing at an 
awful rate. Hooper & Egan were trying to still him. I spent the after noon in the office. 


I herd to day that my Horses were stolen. I immediately wrote a description of them & sent north 
& south. My boys got home in the night. 

151 started in Company with Henry Horn for Rush valley. I travelled to E.T. [City]. Bishop 
Rhoberry went with me from there to Toillee City & spent [the night]. 


16 We Rode through Rush valley to Johnsons settlement. Had a talk with the Indian about the 
Horses but learned nothing of them. We returned to Toille City & spent the night. 

17 We rode throug Toillee valley & returned home in the night. Whole Distance 100 miles. 


18th I spent the day in the City. I wrote a letter to Harrison Severe :]■ to use his influence with the 
Indians to get my horses. 

19th Sunday I was quite poorly & did not attend meeting. Lorenzo D Young spok followed by H. 
C. Kimball Wm. Bra[...] Steph God[ard?] & George Godard & Wm. Carter, & in the Afternoon 
H Harriman & President B Young follow by many missionaries. 


20th The Legion is on parade to day. I spent the day mostly in the office. Joseph Cain Died this 
morning at 6 oclok. I called to see the Corps. He died of Consumption after a long Illness. His 


Page32 




health has been vary Poor for many years. I spent the day about the City. 

2 1st I spent the day in the Council House with the 12 and Presidents of 70" in setting apart the 
missionaries. Many went through their endowment to day. At the close of the business met at the 
Council House. 

I Called at Brother Caines House to attend to his funerall. They were just going out with the 
Corps. I rode to the grave with Samuel Richards. Sister Cain bore her loss with great resignation. 
She was feeble in consequence of the Constant watching over him. 

22d I spent this day in the Council House still blessing the missionaries. We blessed during the 
last two days 114 missionaries. I was mouth in blessing 26 persons. The missionaries were 
Called to go to the following places: 10 to the United States, 13 to the Sandwich Islands, 2 to 
Calafomia 33 to England & Europe 22 to Canida 2 to the Cape of Good Hope 2 to Calafomia to 
attend to the standard office, 1 to South Africa 1 Denmark 1 Switzerland, 2 to Italy [19?] to the 
Express Company. 

23d The missionaries met at the Temple block & a vast number of the people assembled. They 
were addressed by O Hyde L. Snow W. Woodruff J Clinton & Joseph Young. President Young 
Came into the Croud & told the people to go home about there business & for the missionaries to 
start upon their Journey. So all the Elders had their hand Carts fitted up & started out. Their was 
25 Hand Carts from 2 to 3 m[en?] to each Cart & many 2 Horse teams loaded with flour to 
supply the stations for the Carrying Company. 

The presidency & 12 went out with hundreds of people to the bluffs. Presidet Young there 
organized them then returned & prepared to go north. 

24th ? President Young & Council started this morning with a large Company upon a visit to the 
north. I spent the day in the office. 

25 I spent the day gardning. 

26 Sunday I attended meeting at the tabernacle. I spoke in the afternoon attended prayer circle & 
preached in the 14 ward. 

27 & 28 I spent the time in my field ploughing planting potatoes & watering wheat. 

29 I spent the day pruning my orchard & in the office. 

30th I } wrote a letter to Mary Jackson. I spent the day in the office on correspondence & 
conversing with J. Clinton & C. Webb. 


May 

May 1st} I wrote 2 letters to the Editor of the Star & Mormon. The Sunday school Children of 
this City had a May day walk organized [with?] their teachers. After prominading the Hills, 


Page33 




canyon, & City about 600 of them met in the Tabernacl & had an address delivered unto them by 
W Woodruff & Daniel Spencer. Prayer by Bishop Hunter. It was quite an animating scene. 

2d I spent the fore part of the day in the office. I spent most of the night watering. 

3d Sunday I was unwell. I did not attend meeting in the fore noon. I Attended meeting in the 
After noon. David Candling preached in the morning. Was followed By James Mcknight & 

David Fulmer. In the afternoon Jacob Gates & L. W. Hardy occupied the time. I attended the 
prayer Circle in the evening & spent the night at home. I wrote 3 letters to Bishop } T Clark, 
Bishop Rowberry, & Robert H Porter. 

4th ^ ' I spent this day in my orchard grafting my Apple trees. Brother Oliphant done the 
grafting. I had a package sent me from NY by J M Bernhisel. They were put up in tin Cases 
sodered air tight. All the fruit Cuttings were dead but the Apples & some grape Cuttings of the 
Isabella & Catauba. They were green & good. 

5th I spent the day about Home. 

6th I spent the day about Home. I watered the garden in the afternoon I had an interview with 
Bishop Rowberry. There is some difficulty with the indians in Grantsville. 

7th I spent a part of the day in the office & prepared to go to Rush valley. 

8 I left home & rode to E. T. City & held a meeting with the people. I then rode to Bishop 
Rowberry's & spent the night. 

9th I Rode to Grantsville with Brother Rowberry. I met in council with the Bishop Clark & 
Council On Indian affairs. The three indians that stole my horses had killed them & threatened of 
killing both men cattle & Horses so we made arangement to have the Chiefs take those three 
Indians & we would Confine them in the penetentiary. We appointed a Committee to go & see 
the Chiefs & attend to the business. I then left some presents for the Indians. I held a meeting 
with the people then rode to Toille City & spent the night. 

10th Sunday I preached to the people of Toille City in the morning, afternoon & evening. Others 
spoke also. 

Ill rode to day to Rush valley to Johnsons Settlement & spent the night. I preached in the 
evening to the people. It rained & snowed during the evening. 

12 We had several inches of snow this morning on the ground. We loaded up our waggon with 
Cedar post & started for home. We put 1 16 on an ox waggon with 4 yoke of Cattle & 40 on my 
mule team. We rode to the old Barracks. It rained hard. We turned out our teams to feed. I shot 7 
ducks dressed them & rosted them for our dinner & while eating dinner our mules & oxen started 
for Toille City. We had to travel 6 miles for them. We then hitched up our teams & drove in the 
dark to Toille City. The Brethren & sisters in the various Settlements gave me about 60 lb Butter 


Page34 




& 2 cheese. 


13 We drove to day to Great Salt Lake City. The whole distance of the journey going & coming 
130 mile. 

14th I spent a part of the day in the office & part of the day Choreing. 

May 15 It rained most of the day. I spent the day mulching my peach orchard & door yard. 

16th I spent the day in the office writing History. 

17th Sunday I attended meeting at the Tabernacle. E. D. Woolly spoke in the morning. Said he 
had been troubled with an evil spirit all night & He felt that the stand was lean & the 
Congregation was lean &c. He was follow by President Spencer. I spoke in the afternoon. Was 
followed by John Woolly. I attended the prayer Circle in the evening. 

18th I spent the day in the office reading history to [ ] took supper at Br Horn’s. We read 

History of the month of Jan 1845. 

19th I spent the day about home. I attended a party at Brother Orson Pratts family. P P Pratts 
family were present. 

20th I spent the day a part of it in the office & a part of it at home. 

2 1st I spent the day in the office writing on my History. 

22 I spent the day in the office writing & I spent the night watering my garden by lantern light. 
23d I spent the afternoon in the office writing. 

24 Sunday I attended meeting at the Tabernacle. A. O. Smoot preached in the morning followed 
by Wm. Taylor & W. Woodruff in the Afternoon by James Barnes A P. Rockwood Wm. W 
Phelps & Abel Lamb. I attended the prayers Circle. 

25 I spent the day in the office writing & reading History. I herd the History read of Febuary 
1845. 

My daughter Phebe had a vary Severe attack of inflamation on the Lungs or sumthing like 
plurisy. She Could not Breath ownly with great Difficulty. We holstered her up in the bed & she 
would ketch for breath like a person Strangling. She was so for several hours. We annointed her, 
laid hands upon her, & rebuked the desease. I finally got Joseph Smiths silk Hankerchief which 
He gave me in 1839 and said it should ever remain as a League between us as long as I would 
keep it. I laid it upon her stomach. Broth Dunyon Came in to see her in the evening she became 
some better & slept some. 

President Young arived with his company 1/2 past 6 oclok PM. They all arived home well. 


Page35 




26th Phebe is better this morning. I had an interview with Presidet Young a short time. I spent 
the day in the office. 

27th I spent the day in the office writing. 

28th I spent this day in the office on the History of the Twelve. 

29th {8} ? The Eastern Arived in this City 10 minuts past 4 oclk Bringing G A. Smith J M 
Bernhisel & T O Angel & 4 waggons of Mail. It Brought me 8 Letters from 2 Wm. R Prince &c 
1 Ozem Woodruff 1 E. T. Benson 1 J. L. Smith to G A Smith 2 from Thompson Woodruff, one 
from Shuah Moulton to Phebe. President Young Brought me Received a great amount of Letters. 
I remained in the office with 0 Hyde F. D. Richards & others till 10 oclok. 

30th We recieved a great amount of papers from the mail to day. G A Smith Came into the 
Historians office & had a long talk upon matters in the East. I spent most of the day in the office. 

3 1st Sunday The Presidency & 12 met at the Tabernacle with a large Congregation of Saints. 
Presidet Young spoke to the people. Was followed by G A Smith H. C. Kimball J. M. Bernhisel 
D. H. Wells & O Hyde In the Afternoon Orson Hyde F D Richards W Woodruff & G A Smith. 
The spirit of God was with US. 

I was in Council with the circle. Peices & Letters were red about us & the matter about us. We 
find that all Hell is boiling over against us. Among the rest Wm. Smith Called upon the 
Government to furnish him with an army & money. He would Come to Utah & subdue the 
mormons. Many other features show themselves in the states. 

June 

June 1st* I have written 6 Letters to day to the Mormon the Star O Pratt <on various matters> E. 
T. Benson Ozem Thompson & Ozem Woodruff. I spent the day in the office preparing letters for 
the mail &c. 

2d I spent the day in the office. President Young Called in in the afternoon also George A. Smith. 
We Conversed upon various subjects. Herd one of G. A. Smith Sermons read. We Conversed 
upon the subject of the present excitement in the states Concerning mormonism. We then went 
into the Temple Block to see the form of the first w[ater?] table made of white sandstone. 

I then went into the president office & spent the evening. Bishop Blackburn was present. The 
subject Came up of some persons leaving Provo who had Apostitized. Some thought that Bishop 
Blackburn & President Snow was to blame. Brother Joseph Young presented the thing to presidet 
Young. But When the Circumstances were told Presidet Brigham Young sustained the Brethren 
who presided at Provo. He said they had done [ ]. 

The subjects of Eunuchs came up & Joseph said that He would rather die than to be made a 
Eunuch. Brigham Said the day would Come when thousands would be made Eunochs in order 


Page36 




for them to be saved in the kingdom of God. 

The subject of women & Adulterry Came up. Joseph Asked if a woman & man who were 
married Could Commit Adultery. Brigham said that Joseph said they Could not yet He was 
satisfied they Could do wrong. 

President Young said we Cannot Clens the Platter because the people will not bear it. Joseph. I 
am willing to have the people Clens the platter if they Can do it in righteousness & Judge 
righteous Judgment. Brigham. This people never was half as well prepared to execute 
righteousness as Now. I will tell you that when a man is trying to do right & do[es] some thing 
that is not exactly in order I feel to sustain him & we all should. I wish there was some people on 
Earth who Could tell us Just how much Sin we must sustain before we Can chastize the people & 
correct their errors. The wicked may go to the states & call for troops. I dont think the people will 
get rich. To come after us they have got a long road to travel. We have either got to Join hands 
with sin & sinners or we have got to fight them. 

The subject of Adultery again Came up. Joseph said a man Cannot Commit Adultery with his 
wife. So says the revelation on the Patriarchal?] Marriage. Yet a man Can do rong in having 
Connexion with his wife at times. Joseph Young said the Ancient Apostle said this. A man 
should not put away his wife save for the Cause of fornication. If He did they would both 
Commit Adultery. 

Brigham Young Said Joseph taught that when a womans affections was entirly weaned from her 
husband that was Adultery in spirit. Her Affections were Adulterated from his. He also said that 
there was No law in Heaven or on Earth that would Compel a woman to stay with a man either in 
time or Eternity. This I think is true (but I do not know) that if a man that is a High priest takes a 
woman & she leaves him & goes to one of a lesser office say the Lesser priesthood or member I 
think in the resurrection that that High Priest Can Claim her. "Joseph. What if she should not 
want to go with him? I should not want a woman under those Circumstances. 

Brigham. I will tell you what you will find. That all those evil traditions & affections or passions 
that Haunt the mind in this life will all be done away in the resurrection. You will find then that 
any man who gets a glory & exaltation will be so beautiful that any woman will be willing to 
have him if it was right & wharever it is right for the woman to go there she will be willing to go 
for all those evils will vanish to which we are subject in this life. 

I have told the people the truth Just as it is but others will at times get up & tell the people that 
they will get no heaven ownly what they make in this life and that it will be in the next world as 
it is in this. Now they do not mean what they say. They do not explain themselves. Hence the 
people will not understand what is said to them. 

Joseph said I wish I knew what my limits were Brigham Your limits are endless & you have not 
got half way to the [end?] of it yet. Now when I was an Elder I was as willing to Correct an Error 
in the Brethren as I am now. But the people do not see it so. Now if you should be with the 12 or 


Page37 




any body you would have a right to correct an Error as well as with a member but you could not 
Correct them by cutting them off from the Church because they are over you in the priesthood. 
Many other remarks were made at the time. 

3d Brother Oliphant grafted some of my trees to day. I spent most of the day with him. I bought a 
yoke of 4 year old yoke of Durham Oxen deep red. Paid $125 for them of Hooper. A Lyman 
arived home this evening with the Calafornia Mail. 

4th I looked over Accounts to day with J M. Bernhisel. } I wrote a letter to the western standard. 
5th I spent the day in the office. 

6th I spent the day in the office writing the History of the Twelve. 

7th Sunday 1 attended the meeting at the Bowery. A Lyman spoke in the morning. Was followed 
by H. C. Kimball & President Young. In the Afternoon 1 did not attend. O. Hyde L. D Richards & 
B. Young. 1 attended the Prayer circle. 1 herd a letter red from Joseph Smith to his Brother John 
which was good, ft showed his strong detennination in the work, ft rained nearly all night. 

8th A rainy day. 1 spent the time in the office. Over 1 inch of water fell on a level. 1 attended the 
meeting of the board of Directers. We appointed the Awarding Committees. C. C. Rich arived 
from san Bernadeno at 7 oclok this evening. 

9th 1 spent the day in the office mostly. 1 went into the field in the evening to see my wheat. 1 
never saw Crops better. 

10th 1 spent the fore part of the day in the presidents office in Company with Carrington 
Bernhisel G A Smith & Porter Rockwell. The After noon 1 spent in the office with G A Smith. 

1 1th 1 spent the day in the office on the History of the Twelve. 

121 spent the day in the office. G. A. Smith F D Richards A Lyman & others spent a part of the 
day in the office. 

13th 1 spent most of the day in the office. G. A. Smith C. C. Rich & E M Green spent the fore 
part of the day in the office. The stray Cattle was sold to day. 

14 Sunday At 8 oclok in the morning a large Assembly of the saints assembled in the Bowery & 
the Clerks spent 4 Hours in reading the trash & nonsens of the publications of the day on 
Mormonism. The Heathen rage & the people imagin vain things & the whole world seems 
exceding mad against the Latter Day Saints. The Afternoon was spent in preaching. 

1 Attended the prayer Circle. The presidency & W.W. G.A.S A Lyman & C C Rich of the Twelve 
were present. There was much confersation upon various subject. 

Presidet Young said 1 shall not seal the people as 1 have done. Old Father Alread brought three 
young girls 12 & 13 years old. 1 would not seal them to him. They would not be equally yoked 


Page38 




together. The devel can get as many recommend[s/ed?] as He can [back?]. Many get their 
endowments who are not worthy but this is the way devils are made. There will be some needed 
in the next world. 

J. C. Little in the & L. W. Hardy was sent out to obtain Cattle to help pay a Church Debt. In few 
days they returned Little from the North & Hardy from the South. Their was Cattle gathered so 
the presidency paid sixteen thousand Dollars debts with them. 

The subject of Wm. Smith was brought up. It was said that Joseph Smith Prophesied that He 
would become a good man when He became an old man. The brethren thought that He said if He 
ever did become good it would be when he was an old man. Presidet Young then said whether 
Joseph said it or not I will say in the name of the Lord that if Wm. Smith lives untill He is 65 or 
70 years old He will become a good humble man. He will do the best He Can. He will have to 
Answer for his sins. "Write this Brother Woodruff & put it into the Church History." When a 
man give way to the power of the Devil He finds it hard to recover himself again. If the United 
States send their troops here they will have to behave themselves. <If volunteers start to come 
here they will soon get notice not to enter this territory. If they do they must take what follows. 
They do not know what to do with us. They are> determined to make us Conspicuous in all the 
world. 

President Young asked Brother Rich if He had any thing He wished to lay before that Council. 
Brother Rich then said that concerning their debts in that place that they were paying 3 per cent 
per Month for their mony. Had now got it for 2 1/2 per cent. We have Now reduced our debt to 
$20,000 & our city is released & all good lands as fast as we pay we think we shall negociate a 
loan of m[a/e?]n for less interest & nearer home. 

Their is a few men in that place who have turned mob & /Jerong M/ Benson is at the Head of it. I 
told them if they began it their should not be a man of them left alive. 

June 15 1857 I spent the day in the office with G. A. Smith. We read Samuel Smith History. 

161 spent the day in the office. We finished reading Samuel Smiths History & found the History 
of David Pa[tten?] Samuel Smith & Joseph Smith the Prophet all written by their own hands & 
we did not know that they were in the office. We were glad to get these Journals. 

17th I spent most of the day in the office on the History of the Twelve. 

In the afternoon I attended the 14 ward female relief society at my House with Robert Campbell. 
We both addressed the meeting. There were about 50 present sewing knitting sewing carpet rags 
making quilts &c. It is a laudable undertaking. All the females in the ward meet at my house each 
Wednesday afternoon. They open & close with prayer. Mrs Phebe W. Woodruff is President & 
Mrs Pratt Secretary. They Clothe all the poor in the ward & during the last Quarter they made a 
Donation to the perpetual Emigrating fund of $ 126. 1 wish all go & do like wise. 

18th I spent the day in the office writing the History [of] T B Marsh & Wm. Smith. 


Page39 




19th I spent the day in the office writing the History of the Twelve. Tabby & another Indian 
Called upon me to get pay for trying to get my horses. I gave them some Articles. 

20 I spent the fore part of the day in the office the afternoon at home. 

21 Sunday I attended meeting in the bowery. A[hab?] Lamb spoke in the bowery. Gave a long 
panorama of the History of man from Adam to this day. Took us through the garden of Eden the 
flood the Ark, tower of Babel, sodom & Gomorrow Abram offering up Isaac Phario Moses, the 
red sea 40 years in the wilderness, Christ the Apostles the Jews, & Jerrusalem &c &c then Joseph 
Brigham &c. He was vary dry untill he come to our day. The[n] the spirit of the Lord was with 
him & we were Edifyed. 

He was followed by H C Kimball who bore a strong testimony of the work of God. He was 
followed by Joseph A Young who spoke in the spirit & power of God & bore a good testimony 
& taught good doctrin. 

In the afternoon Hon J. M Bernhisel gave a relation of his going to Washington & his labours 
there. He was followed by D. H. Wells who spoke upon political subjects & their Corruptions. 

He was followed by Brigham Young who had much of the spirit & power of God upon him & 
Edifyed the people much. 

I attended the prayer Circle. Many remarks were made by President Young upon various 
subjects. He said the devil was mad to be called by his right name by a saint, but if the devil or a 
wicked man was to call the devil by his right name all would be well. 

Presidet Young said when speaking of the Constitution of the U.S that it was got up by 
inspiration. It gives all men the rights of Conscience. So it will be in the Millennium. It will be 
like the Constitution. All will have to bow the knee & acknowledge the Lord that it is his right to 
reign but they must not Blaspheme but they may enjoy there own religion. 

Men talk about making a Law to stop Poligamy in Utah. That would be an expose facto law & 
the Constitution declairs that Congress shall not make any such law & if the time Comes when 
the United States do make a law & send men to punish me for poligamy or having more than one 
wife as there is no law against it you make up your mind that I shall send them to Hell. I do not 
think they will do it, but if they do you may tell them they had better send 100,000 men with 
provision for 5 years & they may make their Calculations upon it & they will want to make forts 
from one end of the route to the other so they Can step from one to the other. 

There is one sweeping clause against this proceding. When they Charter a ship company to build 
ships & controll them they cede up their rights in this Case so it is in the Territories. They have a 
Territorial Government. This people should have a right to govern there own institutions. 

22d I spent the day in the office. Presidet Young Called in in the afternoon a short time with C. 

C. Rich. 


Page40 




23d 'T'-Jf [] The Eastern mails arived at 5 past 2 oclok 23 days from Indipendance. Ferrimore Little 
& Ephraim Hanks came with it the shortest trip on record. We leam that all Hell is boiling over 
against the saints in Utah. We also are informed that Elder Parley P Pratt was Murdered By [ } 

MCLain who shot him in Arkansaw. This was painful news to his Family. The papers of the 
United States are filled with bitter revileings against us. The devil is exceding mad. 

Sister Sayers & sister Vose both arived in the mall. Sister [ ] Vose is 77 years old & rode 1,200 

miles in 23 days. She has been a member of the Church almost from the begining. She has given 
thousands of Dollars for the Elders & building up of the kingdom of God. 

I went into the Presidents office with the first Presidency & Twelve to hear the news by the Mall. 
Presidet Young was Sick yet He set for 3 Hours & heard reading & Cor[respondence?]. 

I went with the Twelve, O Hyde, W. Woodruff G. A. Smith & A. Lyman to visit the family & to 
comfort them on the Death of their Husband & Father. They were calm & composed. I again 
Called in the evening. Saw sister Sayers & had some conversation with her. 

24th I called upon Presidet Young with the 12.1 spent most of the day in the office. 

25th Wm. Hickman is in this City this morning he was [eh..?] away from Laramie. He came 
through from there in 8 days over 500 miles. 

I spent most of the day on the History. 

When in the Presidents office on the 23d Presidet Young asked G. A. Smith if it was not Hard to 
Acknowledge the hand of God in the death of Parley P Pratt by as wicked a man as McLain. Yet 
we will have to do it. 

T B Marsh pleads for Mercy & askes if it is not to late for him to fill his mission. B Young says it 
is but I am willing to forgive him & that he may be baptized & Confirmed. Then let him Come 
here. 

We read a letter from O Pratt. 

BY Says if we live our religion we shall have all the world upon [us]. I will tell you the time has 
Come when the Elders have got to take Care of themselves for the people will publish a lie & 
they will shoot them if they are not Careful. The People must know there is a God in Heaven & 
circumstances will bring this thing to bear. I am Feble but I hope I shall yet live to preach in 
Jackson Co St Louis Cincinnati New York & through the Eastern States. 

I had a dream. I thought I saw my family picking all kinds of Fruit & flours. I thought I went East 
to preach & I saw the people in the valley had doug down the mountain or Cut it down square & 
brought the soil out of the mountains & made some good gardens. I went on East & I herd a 
Methodist Priest Pray for sinners & Men followed me & asked me if I wanted some brass. I told 
him no. They wanted me to steal sumthing. I told them I would not do it. It was moles to make 


Page4 1 




Coin in they wanted me to steal. I saw stolen goods in great piles & stacks that the people in the 
Eastern Country had stolen. Some tried to raise a mob upon me but I did not fear them. Soon I 
saw some brethren. I saw one Apostate. He wanted to kill me but I told him that if He did not 
behave himself I would send him to Hell. I again saw the brethren Cut down the mountains & 
make good farms. I thought these were good times. 

The above was presidets Youngs dream. He then said if the Lord our God does not visit the 
United States then I am no prophet & we shall find that all good men will come to the mountains 
for safety. 

25 President B Young & H C Kimball G. A. Smith A Lyman & C. C. Rich came into the office 
at 2 oclok & set & conversed upon various things. He said that David Patten & T. B. Marsh 
Came to kirtland in the fall of 1837. He said as soon as they came I got Marsh to go to Joseph, 
But Patten would go to W Parrish. He got his mind prejudiced & when He went to see Joseph 
David in[sult?]ed Joseph & Joseph slaped him in the face & kicked him out of the yard. 

This done David good. I Could not sleep those days. I spent many a knight all night without 
sleeping at all. I prayed a good deal. My mind was constantly Active those days. 

Brother C C Rich gave an account of the death of David W Patten. He said as they Charge upon 
the mob two men remained behing the bank. Patten took after one of them & C. C Rich the other. 
The man that Patten was after turned around & shot him & He fell to the ground but a few steps 
from Brother Rich. 

26th I Called upon the presidet in the morning. I spent the day in the office. 

27th I wrote a Letter to Brother Robert H. Porter & to the Rush valley Branch of the Church 
signed by O Hyde W. Woodruff & F D Richards. The Nauvoo Legion Came out to day. G A 
Smith A. Lyman & myself walked to the public square with General Wells Staff. Elder 
[Bunker?] & my self were Elected Chaplains of the Legion in that Staff with the rank of Colonel. 
We all appeared on foot. About 200 appeared on parade. The Govomor also appeared with the 
Legion. 

28th Sunday 28 Elder Chislett spoke in the morning Direct from the swiss Mission. He was 
followed by President Young & J W. Cummings. Both spoke much to our Edifycation. Gilbert 
Clements occupied all the afternoon. 

I attended the prayer Circle. Presidet Young had 2 letters read one from T B. Marsh & one from 
Thomas L. Kane. 

G. A. Smith said I want to be baptized with the rest of you. The rest of the brethren wished the 
same. Presidet Young Chatechized G. A. Smith J M. Bernhisel C. C. Rich & A. Lyman. All 
passed well. 

Presidet Young spoke of Strang & his death. J M. Bernhisel spoke of his death & thought that 


Page42 




George Miller was Dead. G. A. Smith said that He was informed that Miller had gathered the 
following of Strang about 60 in numbers. Presidet Young said they did m[..]e a business of 
stealing but let men Come here & they would see that we have shown the works of industry. 

Phelps said that the man who w[as?] [at] Clay County Court House who said He would kill Jo 
Smith & if the Turkey Buzzards did not eat out his eyes they should cut out his own, Phelps 
stood within a few feet of him wh[ile?] going home the boat su nk . He was drowned. Floated 
upon some flood wood. The Buzzards eat out his eyes & his flesh. Phelps saw his body after this 
was done & a man said He had fulfilled his own Prophesy. 

0 Hyde told a dream of a man in Mo who was one of the first settlers & helped drive out the 
Saints. It has troubled him so much he has sold out & left the place. 

Presidet Young Askes Wm. W Phelps if Asstrology is true. Phelps says I dont know. BY. Brother 
Woodruff write that down. This is the first thing that I ever heard off but what Brother Phelps 
knew. He says he dont know any thing about Asstrology. But I believe it is true. So is 
Mesmerism or there is true principles in it. 

29 I spent the day in the office. In the fore part of the day I attended the meeting in the Social 
Hall. Presidet Young spoke in the power of God & expressed his feelings upon the subject of our 
present position & the feelings of the world against us. It did my soul good to hear him. 

He was followed by H. C. Kimball & D. H Wells who spoke to the Edifycation of the people. 

He was followed by W. Woodruff who said that He had faith in the doctrin taught by Presidet 
Young for the rising Generation to go on foot instead of Hors back. I said that I knew the good ol 
it by experience. I traveled 1,200 miles on foot & averaged 40 miles a day then waided the 
Missisippi swamp from Little Rock Ark to Memphis Term 200 miles & ownly 16 miles out ol 
water. One day walked 60 miles & while on the Journey walked 72 miles without Eating & when 

1 got to Eagle Creek with Parish I believed I Could have killed any horse I ever saw walking to 
have followed it. 

How will it be here should we have to go to the mountains? We might ride our Horses to the 
mountains. Then we would have to leave them for we would have to go to many places whare 
our Horses Could not go. 

There is another thing I want to speak of. We know how things have been in Nauvoo. Joseph & 
Hiram the leaders of the people were killed. If that time ever Comes again when the Leaders ol 
this people are Called for I am opposed to their being given up. I do not Care what the 
Consequences are for if any h[as?] got to die let it be some of the rest of us who are not of as 
much consequences as they are. But I want them to live to lead Israel as long as their is any body 
to lead. Let us obey council in all things & if necessary go into the mountains & we will increase 
untill the wicked will say let us not go against Zion to Battle for her sons are terrible & we 
Cannot Stand. 


Page43 




There was a good Spirit pervaded the whole meeting. J. V. Long reported the speeches of the 
Presidency. 

301 spent the day in the office writing History mostly . 

July 

/July 1st/ I walked with G A Smith to Mr Sayers & visited his garden. He had a fine lot of Black 
& yellow wild Cu[ura..?] from Boston & Nauvoo bottoms. } I wrote 2 letters to the Mormon & 
Star. 

2d A hard rainy day which will do great Good. I spent the fore part of the day at home & evening 
in the office. 

3d I spent the day in the office & I wrote to the standard during the night. Left the office at 2 
oclok at night. 

4th Independance 4th July The inhabitants of this city Celebrated the day by a splendid Military 
performance. The Legion met on the public square more than I ever saw out together before in 
this City. We were dismissed before the Governors Residence at 12 oclok. 

5th Sunday I spent the fore part of the day in writing. I } wrote a letter to the Editor of the 
Standard. I read to the Govornor. He advised me to lieve out the remarks Concerning Drumings 
[Drummond?]. I did so. I spent the evening in writing. 

6th I walked into the big field & through many of the gardens of the City Wagstaffs Hemenway, 
& others. I attended the Agreculteral meeting then the rush valley Herd meeting till near 
midnight. 

7th I spent the day on my farm. My 20 acres of Land 12 Acres of wheat 1 Acre of oats, 1 1/2 of 
Potatoes 5 1/2 acres of corn. All looks like a miracle. My wheat is as high as my head. My [ca?]ts 
up to my Chin, my Com up to my arms ground mellons & formerly filled with weeds this year 
scearsly none at all & we have never had so large Crops throug this Territory as this season & 
this has been promised us through our presidency & we have been told to lay up wheat & all the 
grain we Can against the day of Famine. 

8th I spent the day in the office writing on the History. 

9th I bought a pair of French Poneys to day of Brother Wright. Paid him $180. 1 had my horses 
stolen by the Indians & have lived some 2 months without a team & find it vary inconvenient. 

10th I spent the fore part of the day in the Endowment House & the afternoon in the office 
writing. 

1 1th I spent the day in my field. 


Page44 




12th Sunday I attended meeting in the Tabernacle. Thomas Smith Edmund Elsworth & H. C. 
Kimball spoke in the forenoon. Broth Kimball Cursed the wicked & Blessed the wrighteous. In 
the afternoon Brother Banks & A. Lyman spoke. We had a good meeting. 

I attended the prayer Circle. The Council spoke of the Delegate to Washington. J. M. Bernhisel 
was Nominated. In Company with Edmond Elsworth I Called upon Franklin Richards & 
Administered to his wife who was vary sick. 

13th I spent the day in the office writing. A Lyman Called upon us & wished some Oates. 

141 spent the day in the office writing on the History of the Twelve. 

151 spent this day writing in the office. I sent sister Eliza R Snow ? f A poem the production of 
my pen directed to herself As a Poetess in Zion. [ See page 135.] 

16^1 spent the fore part of the day in the Endowment House. We gave 56 their Endowment. In 
the Afternoon I finished Copying into my Autobiography A long letter from my Brother Azmon 
& Thompson Woodruff Aug 9, 1834 And my Answer to it of Nov 29 1834. 

171 spent the fore part of the day in the Endowment House. The latter part I spent in the office. 

18th I spent the day Haying. 

19th Sunday A. Carrington T. O. Angel and Presidet BY all spoke in the fore part of the day. In 
the Afternoon D H. Wells D Fulmer Joseph A Young & A Lyman spoke. I attended the prayer 
Circle in the evening. 

20 & 2 1 I spent the time Haying. 

22d I took my family in my waggon & started for the mouth of the big Cotton wood canyon to 
attend the great picknick party of President Young & company at the Head waters of the Big 
Cotton Wood. 

23d We camped last night in the Big Cotton wood at the place whare the Brethren were Cutting 
granite for the Temple. Brothers Rich & A Lyman Camped with me G A Smith & many others. 
In fact the whole road was lined with waggons for miles & they Camped whare ever they Could 
drive out of the road. 

We arose this morning before 3 oclok & started on our road. The Twelve followed the 
Presidency & the guards. The string of waggons reached for many miles. We arived at the Camp 
ground at about 12 oclok and the last of the waggons did not arive till near midnight. The whole 
Company numberd 2,587 persons with 468 Carriages & waggons 1,028 horses and mules 332 
oxen and Cows. 

Flags were raised upon the highest peaks that surrounded us & the stars & stripes were placed 
upon the Highest trees. The surrounding scenery of mountains, valley, lake, wood & meadow 


Page45 




was the most interesting I ever beheld. We had prayers at night & an address from Presidet 
Young. There were 5 bands of music in attendance. 

24th This was the aniversary of the enterance of the pioneers into these vallies. We had music, 
singing, praying, addresses and each one enjoyed himself the best he Could. Many trout were 
Caught in the Lake. The whole mountains & rallies were alive with men & beast. At 20 minutes 
past 9 oclok 3 rounds were fired from a Br[ass?] Howitzer for the first Presidency of the Church. 
Other rounds were also fired. Each one enjoyed themselves the best they Could through the day 
& night. I took a walk with the presidency?] down to his upper mill. Their is four built & one 
building. I never saw finer timber in my life. 

At about noon Bishop A O. Smoot Elders Judson Stodard, O. P. Rockwell. & Judge E Smith 
Rode into Camp the 2 former from the States in 20 days. They informed Us that the United States 
had taken away the mail Contract & that a New Govomor & Judges & 2,500 troops would start 
for Utah soon. We went into the Presidets tent & questions were asked and answered And 
Presidet Young said that if General Hamey Crossed the South Pass He should send him word 
they must not come into the valley. If the Govornor & officers wished to come & would behave 
themselves well they would be well treated. President Young felt determined no more to submit 
to oppression either to individuals, towns, Counties, states or Nation. 

25th At day light the company began to break up & as fast as each one harnessed his horses they 
moved out & soon all was under way for home. I arived at home about sundown having travled 
to & from 56 miles & spent the night at home. 

26th Sunday I attended meeting at the Tabernacle. G. A. Smith A. O. Smoot & President Young 
spoke. In the afternoon Joseph Young & H. C. Kimball spoke. I attended the prayer meeting in 
the evening at the Presidets Upper Room. Presidet Young expressed his feelings in plainness 
Concerning our Enemies. 

27, 28, 29, 30 I spent these 4 days in the Harvest field cutting wheat. I have never seen so great 
Crops of wheat & Corn among the latter Day Saints as this season & this is in accordance with 
the Prophesyings of the Presidency. 

July 311 Called upon Brother Kimball early this morning & had some Conversation with him. 

He told me a dream. He said He thought He had some Hogs caught with ropes & he was driving 
them up a mountain. He had one vary fat hog. He said we had better kill him. He would never be 
as good again to kill as now. He told some one to take Care of him for a while till he could attend 
to some others, and they let him get away from them & the hog ran up the mountain with all his 
might. When Brother Kimball saw him he took after him & told the brethren to help ketch him & 
kill him but they Could not ketch him so he got away. 

He gave me what He thought to be [an] interpetation of the dream. The Hogs were our Enemies 
& one of them run away. 


Page46 




A few days since I Called upon Presidet Young & had some Conversation with him. I then went 
to the Endowment House & worked till 2 oclok. <President Young sealed Sarah Delight 
Stocking to me. She was born in Canton, Hartford County> Ct July 28 1838. 

I spent the Afternoon in the office. While in the Endowment House President Kimball said He 
wished me to write the account of the sayings of Joseph the prophet when He pledged himself 
that He would not speak upon a certain occasion untill all the 12 Had spoken so he had to sit 3/4 
of a day & hear the 12 express their feelings & he could not say a word. He then said to the 12 
you have caught me this once & 1 now want to give you some advise. Never get Caught as 1 have. 
Never go into a Cornor unless you Can see your way out in some manner. We gathered togeth[er] 
a Copy of all our works by request of Presidet Brigham Young to make a Deposit of them <in the 
comer of the temple.> 


August 

Aug 1st 1 spent the day in the office mostly. 1 Called upon Eleanor Pratt & got an account of the 
death & burial of Elder P. P. Pratt who was murdered by MCLain. 

2d Sunday 1 attended meeting all day. Elias Smith H C Kimball & B Young spoke in the fore 
noon in great plainness. The spirit & power of God was upon them. The reporters took a report of 
their sermons, so 1 do not make any minutes of them. 

G A Smith spoke in the Afternoon. Gave an account of his experience from the begining. Told of 
being sealed up to Eternal Damnation 9 times by a prysbeterian priest when he was a boy because 
he would not go to an anxious seat. Gave a rehersal of the Smith family. Blessed his friends & 
Cursed his Enemies &c. 

1 attended the prayer Circle. Many remarks were made upon the subject of sending the US troops 
to this Territory. President Young said that our enemies will perish in their own Corruptions. 1 
think it will be well to send some missionaries through the States and tell the brethren to pick up 
their budgets & Come to the valley and go to England. Let the brethren do this that go with the 
Mail. 

The US are fools to Come upon this people & so are those men who are bringing great quantities 
of Goods unto us this season. If the United States send out troops to fight us this season we shall 
whip them out. Then they will send out reinforcements. Then we shall have the Lamanites with 
us & the more the United states send out the wors off they will be for they will perish with 
Famine. 

1 do not think any thing about guns or powder for if the United States begin war with us 1 intend 
they shall furnish [us] with arms and aminition. All we want if they do undertake [it] is the Lord 
will lead them or let them go into a snare and ther folly will be manifest. 

G. A. Smith said if we defeat them you may look for 100,000 men. Presidet Young said it would 


Page47 




be so much the worse for them. But I do not believe that He will get a great force here for if they 
are defeated this year the people will be down upon Bucannon. But I should not wonder if we 
heard he was dead soon. Wells said this was Buchanan own measure some time ago. 

/I Baptized G. A. Smith J. M Bemhisel & Truman O Angel. I confirmed them with F. D. 
Richards./ 

3d I spent the day in the office writing. 

4th I spent this day in the Office. I took dinner at the Globe. 

5th President Young spent the fore part of the day in the office. We read to him the History of his 
Fathers Family which he Corrected and approved of. 

6 I Attended the 14 ward fast meeting and addressed the people a short time. I was quite unwell 

6 went home. I was unwell [in] the after noon. I wattered my Garden through the night. 

7 I Called at the Office then went to the Endowment House and spent the evening in the office. 
8th I spent the day in the office. 

9th Sunday I attended meeting at the Tabernacle. Elder John Taylor preached in the morning 
much to our Edifycation. Erastus Snow spoke in the afternoon. 

I attended the prayer Circle there being 24 in the Circle. We occupied Presidets Young New 
upper Room in his new House for the first time. John Taylor & Erastus Snow was with us. 

Speaking of the Anney Brother Kimball said we had better do as we said. If officers Came here 
& did not behave themselves we would kick them out soldiers & all. 

Presidet Young said that if the Lord pennitted the army to Come here I believe He wants us to 
give them a whiping. If He does not wish it I do not think they will Come. That is what I believe. 

Some Emigrants in the [ ] killed each other. The survivers asked Thomas Dunn if they would 

be taken up for it. He said no if they would keep on doing SO. 

Thomas B Marsh is Coming. Is a poor old man. He asked if Brigham or Heber would not adopt 
him as their Son. John E Page is not dead Nor G. J. Adams as reported. George Miller is dead. 
Sylvester Stodard is in St Louis. 

10th Monday I spent the day writing in the office mostly upon my Autobyography. President B 
Young called & presented some of the first coin made in this valley for Deposit. 

II $ ^ I Called into the Presidents Office in the morning & Presidents Heber C. Kimball was 
teaching doctrin. He said that wom[e/a?]n told him that He had no right to controll a woman 
because He was not a woman. He said that He Contained the principle of both the men and the 
women for both male & female proceded from him. He said many thought that the seat of life or 


Page48 




the soul or mind of man was in the heart others in the brain. But whareever the seed of life was 
located there was the seat of life & the foundation of the soul. Many other remarks were made. 

He said any man that was a prophet of God He was born a Natural Prophet. It was through a 
linage of Prophets. There fathers & mothers were Prophets & Prophetesses by birth through the 
Seed of Abraham. This was the case With Joseph Brigham & himself. [Their?] Fathers were 
prophets. 

He then Chastized Thomas Ellerback in a vary sharp manner for insulting him & trying to take a 
Course to bring a Collission between him & Daniel H. Wells. He spoke for more than an hour 
upon the subjects of the Clerks in the various offices & his rights place & station & the place & 
station of all the Presidency & other men. Brother Thomas asked his Forgiveness & Brother 
Kimball forgave him & all was settelled. 

I called upon Presidet Young & gave him his History to look over from the Hand of Brother 
Watt. 

12th Brother Samuel Richards George J Snider & Bryant Stringham start with an express Mail 
this day for the East. The Last Noumber of the Deserett News Containing the views of the 
Presidency Twelve & Editor was sent to the President & congress of the United States. It is vol. 7 
No 23. 

I commenced writing a short sketch of my history for publication in the general Church History. 
President Young gave orders to break up our station upon the road & come home. 

13th I called upon President Young in the morning. He came in. Asked if it would not be well to 
put in the store into the bottom of the temple suller & let the men go to & save their grain and for 
each man to take what grain will do him for a year. 

D. H. Wells said that orders had been sent North & south to watch for the soldery & not let them 
Come in but to destroy them the best way they Could. 

Let grain be cashed in the mountains so they can get at it. Presidet Young said that He thought it 
would be best to secure the grain in the mountains. It was said that Vannetting had 500 lb of 
powder coming & that He would go out with cattle to bring it in or would do as He was told. Yes 
say Presidet Young except a righteous Course. President Young said I had rather have a good 
powder horn & Charger than any flask in the world. He considered it safer. There is a deep 
feeling pervading our City about the soldiers Coming in to destroy us as a people. 

I had an interview with President B. Young & he gave me some important instructions with 
regard to Historical Matters. At 5 oclok I Called upon Brother Carrington and went into his peach 
orchard & eat a fine rair peach called Carringtons 1st Early. It was a splendid Peach, and is well 
worth Cultivating. 

I was notifyed to give the 12 Apostles an invitation to meet at the Temple block at 6 oclok to 


Page49 




make a deposit of the works published by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter day saints and we 
met at the Temple Block at half past 6 oclok. The company present was the Presidency Brigham 
Young Heber C Kimball & Daniel H Wells of the Twelve Apostles Wilford Woodruff John 
Taylor Erastus Snow & Franklin Richards The Architect Truman O Angel Alonzo H Rolley, 
Benjamin F Mitchel Johnathan Pugmire Jr. Edward L Parry (Mason) Henry Maiban Jesse C 
Little Albert Carrington John Lyon Joseph & Brigham Young President Youngs sons. President 
Young & W Woodruff packed the Books in a stone box 2 1/2 feet long 20 inches deep 1 foot 7 
inches wide. It was filled with our works. At 7 oclok they were packed in the stone and 15 
minutes to 8 oclock the lid was put on sodared with lead & covered with plaster paris & turned 
bottom side up & set in the South East Cornor. Then President Brigham Young made the 
following dedication prayer: 

2 ^ O God our Eternal Father we ask thee in the name of Jesus Christ that thou will Bless this 
deposit which we have made in the foundation of this temple. We dedicate all these Books, 
papers, Records & history unto thee O Lord our God And I pray in the name of Jesus Christ Our 
Father in Heaven that thou wilt preserve this deposit the paper and ink that it may indure that no 
mold /mildew/ or decay may come upon it untill It shall come forth for the benefit of the House 
of Israel & thy people that it may be a benefit unto them. 

We also pray the our Father in the name of Jesus Christ that thou woulds preserve us from our 
Enemies in this place that we may have power to finish this temple even to the top stone. Will 
thou Curse our Enemies & bring Judgment upon them that they shall not have power to Come 
into these vallies to disturb us but may we conquer our Enemies & may they be destroyed. 

We thank the our Father that we are here in thes vallies of the Mountains. We thank the thou hast 
blessed the Earth for our sakes that thou hast caused the desert to Blossom as the rose & caused 
wheat corn & vegitation to grow for our Benefit. Wilt thou continue thy blessings unto us in 
these vallies of the mountain. 

Wilt thou bless the land & the water the vallies Mountain Canyons & streams for the benefit of 
thy saints but may not the wicked or ungodly have any power here. But may our Brethren who go 
forth to war with our enemies have power to scatter & destroy them. We pray the our Father to 
turn the hearts of the Lamanites even the sons of Jacob unto us that they may do thy will & be as 
a wall of defense around about us. 

We now aske the Our Father to except of this deposit & dedication. Preserve these records as 
thou didst the pot of manna Hid up by Aaron that they may be preserved to come forth in the own 
due time of the Lord. All these blessings we ask in the name of Jesus Christ Amen. 

List of Books, Note(2) Pamphlets & Newspapers deposited in the Temple, G.S.L. City, Augt 
13th 1857 by President Brigham Young, Prophet, Seer & Revelator of the Church of Jesus Christ 
of Latter Day Saints: 

The Book of Mormon The Book of Doctrine & Covenants, The Latter Day Saints Messenger & 


Page50 




Advocate, The Times & Seasons 6 Vols., The Millennial Star Vols 1 to 18 complete & of Vol 19 
from No. 1 to No. 19, Nauvoo Neighbor, Vol 1 complete, Vol 2 less Nos 4, 5 & [32?], Frontier 
Guardian, Vols 1 & 2 bound & Vol 3 unbound, The Voice of Warning, Orson Pratts Works &c., 
bound, The Voice of Truth, Address to the people of England, The word of the Lord to the 
Citizens of London, The only way to be saved, A timely Warning to the people of England, 
Deseret News, Vols 1 to 6 & of Vol 7 Nos. 1 to 23, Hymn Book, 1 1th Edition, Journal of 
Discourses Vols 1 & 2, Constitution of the State of Deseret with Journal of Convention which 
framed it, Spencer's Letters, The Pearl of Great Price, Joseph Smith the Prophet, The Voice of 
Joseph, Testimonies for the Truth, The Government of God, Patriarchal Order or Plurality of 
Wives, Etoile du Deseret Vol 1, The only way to be saved, in Gennan, Restaurazione Dell' 

Antico Evangelio, Harp of Zion, The Italian Mission, The Prussian Mission, One Year in 
Scandinavia, Das buch Monnon, Livre de Monnon, Libre de Mormon, Mormons Bog, Leyfe 
Mormon & A[lhraur?]aeth a Ch[ess?]ammooan, bound together, Route from Liverpool to Great 
Salt Lake Valley, Illustrated, Western Standard, Vol 1 & of Vol 2 Nos 1 to 15, Key to Theology, 
Catechism for Children, Poems by Eliza R. Snow Vol 1, Zion’s Watchman, Vol 1, The 
Compendium, The Mormon Vol, Vol 2 except Nos 1, 2, & 45, Vol 3, Nos 1 to 13, Tracts by 
Orson Pratt, 1856-7, viz 1. The true faith, 2 True Repentance, 3 Water Baptism 6 Necess[orl?]y 
for Miracles, 7, Universal Apostasy & 8, Latter Day Kingdom, Revised Laws of Utah, 
Resolutions Acts & Memorials passed at Legislative Assembly of Utah 1855-6, Acts & 
Resolutions passed by the Legislative Assembly of the Territory of Utah 1856-7, Udgom Scion, 
Vols 1 & 2, Vol 3 & Vol 4, which has Y Perl a faro brio bound with it, & Vols 5 & 6, 
Hymna[u/n?], Y Casgyl by John Davis, containing Treatises Songs & letters, Eurgrawn y 
sgrythyrol (Christian Casket, Hanes Samt y Dyoldian Diveddaf, Prophioyd y Jubile new seron y 
Saint 1847, Scandinaviens Hjerne, Vols 3 & 4, Portraits of 1st Presidency & Twelve Apostles, 
The Wasp, Vol 1 1842-3, Deseret Coin, viz: a $20, $10, $5 & a $2 50/100 Gold Pieces of the 1st 
Coin made in the Valley. 

14th 1 spent the day in the Endowment House till 2 oclok. From that time in the office. Many of 
the brethren are preparing to go into the Mountains to help up the Emigration & meet the enemy. 
They are now leaving daily. 

15th 1 took my sword which Joseph Smith Carried in Zions Camp to get a New Handle & guard 
put onto it. 1 got a Brass one Cast. 1 then went to the office & spent the day on History. Robert & 
Wilford was Called upon to get ready to leave for the mountains on Tuesday. 1 prepared Balls for 
Wilford that He might be ready. 

16th ? 21 Sunday This was one of the most important days that the Church & kingdom of God has 
seen in this dispensation. The People met at the Tabernacle. Several of the returned Missionaries 
spoke in the morning Bishop Cunningham & Henry W Miller. 

They were followed By Presidet Brigham Young who said when he arose that He desired to 
speak as the Lord himself would was he present. He then began Clothed with the spirit & power 
of God & the revelations of Jesus Christ. He recounted our persecutions & oppressions for the 


Page5 1 




last 25 years & then took up the unjust Course of the United States against us at the present time. 

Then He told us & all the world what the will of God was & what his intentions were. He would 
no longer submit to their Ungodly persecutions. If General Hamey Came here with an armey to 
destroy this people we would destroy him & his armey. They should not Come into this territory 
of our cities to destroy this people. The United States had turned mob & were breaking the 
Constitution of the United States & we would now have to go forth & defend it & also the 
kingdom of God, & should they undertake to send an army of 50,000 or 100,000 men next year 
we will lay waste this whole Territory & flee into the mountains. I will lay all my dwellings in 
Ashes. I will lay all my mills in ashes. I will cut down evry green tree & shrub in the rallies of 
these mountains. I will bum evry peace of timber wood & board in the vallies of the mountains. 
Then do you not think that our Canyons will be ad[apted?] for the bones of our Enemies? I think 
it will. 

0 Israel, Can you stand these things? The shout of Yes rent the air of the assembled thousands. 
All you who are willing to follow me in these things raise your hands towards heavens. There 
was a sea of hands up. 

1 have had to hold the Indians here for years from destroying the emigrants. I have had to give 
them many thousands of dollars to keep them from killing the Gentile Emigration to Calafomia. 
The United States Government now ows me $50,000 in my Official Capacity & they will not pay 
me a dime but are sending armies at great Expens to destroy me & this people. But I will now 
inform them & all people that if they make war upon me I shall not attempt to restrain them any 
more but I shall let them do as they please. 

The United States do not know what they are [doing]. They are selling the blood of this people 
for Gold. They were not going to bring any goods to this place but now that an army of 2,500 
men are coming here to destroy this people they Can bring a great amount of Goods. Let them 
take Heed to their ways. If the United States sends an Armey & a train of Goods here I may get a 
part of the pay which they owe me. 

I now wish to say to all Gentiles send word to your friends that they must stop Crossing this 
Continent to Calafornia for the indians will kill them for the Emigrants have shot down the 
indians without any cause or provocation & if the United States make war upon me I shall not 
attemp to restrain them any longer. 

I will give all people in this Territory that wish the privilege to leave. I want all to leave that are 
not willing to follow me. If there is any of my family my wives that wish to leave I will send my 
teams & carry them whareever they w[ant?] to go. If it is to Hell I will drive to the gate but will 
not let my teams go into hell but they must turn around & come back. But those that wish Can 
enter in. 

I want this people to go to & save all their grain & prepare to cash it up in the mountains but dont 
let your Neighbor know whare you put it. I want you to prepare for a 7 years siege. 


Page52 




Many other remarks were made all taken by the reporters. The spirit of God rested upon us him 
& upon the congregation and all the saints felt to say amen to all Presidet Young said. 

I attended the prayer meeting at the presidents House. Various remarks were made by Brother 
Kimball & Wells. 

I attended the ward meeting in the evening & spoke to the people. I bore testimony to what 
Presidet Young said during the day. I told the people to be passive in the hands of the Lord & be 
ready to carry out the Council of the Presidency in all things. Brother Stewart returned from the 
States to day & reported about the Emigration. 

17th I called at the presidets office a short [time]. I spent the day in the office. 

18 The presidency went to Fannington or some place North to a water mellon Party. I spent half 
a day in the office. The rest of the time I was budding peach trees. I put in 150 of Carringtons 1 & 
2d Early peach. 

19th I put in 75 Carrington 1st Early peach buds into 2 year old trees before 10 oclk. Spent the 
rest part of the day in the office. 

20 I spent the day in the office & in the evening O Hyde & Luke Johnson Came in & we wrote 
out Luke Johnsons History. 

2 1 st I spent the fore part of the day in the Endowment House the after noon watering my garden. 
22d A rain this morning. I spent the day in the office. 

23d Sunday I spent the day at the Tabernacle. Brother Walker spoke in the morning. Told of his 5 
years mission to South Africa his return to America. He was appointed to assist off the Hand Cart 
Emigration. He took Charge of their baggage. Could not get [ ] but wintered at Florence. 

Started the train this spring. Was on the way. Would be here in a few weeks. 

He was followed by Br Rogers who had been on a mission to the sandwich Islands. He said but 
few words. 

Was followed By President Heber C Kimball who was fdled with the power of God. Spoke quite 
lengthy. Told the people to obey Council & do right, go & glean all the wheat in the fields & 
save it. Their was 1,000 bushels in this County that Could be gleaned. If the people will do as 
they are told they shall never be driven from these vallies. An Enemy shall not Come in these 
vallies for we will not let them. If we have to take to our tents at all we will not pitch them again 
as a resting place untill we Pitch them in Jackson County. He said that Presidet Young said when 
He first Came in in a speech that we should lay up grain for a 7 years famine & we should let the 
land rest on the 7th year. Brother Woodruff herd it. (Brother Woodruff said it was written.) 

Now the US are trying to force a Govomor upon us. We will not Receive him. The Lord has said 


Page53 




our govornor will procede out of the midst of us. This is in the Bible. Broth Woodruff turn to it. 
(Brother Woodruff opened the Bible promiscously & opened diretly to the passage in the 30 
chapter of Jeremiah 2 1 verse) & read it to the congregation. Many remarks were made by the 
speaker all of which are reported. 

In the After noon John Taylor spoke lengthy. Had much of the spirit of the Lord & the people 
were Edifyed. He was followed By Presidet Daniel H Wells who also spoke in the spirit & Power 
of God Concerning Zion the armies of Israel, & the annies of the wicked. He was ready to fight 
& defend Zion. All was reported. 

We went to the prayer Circle. Presidet Young was sick but he was in the Circle. Said he Could 
not feel that the Enemy would Come this season. 

24th I spent the day in the office on Brother Kimballs History. 

251 spent this day in the office on History. 

26th \ I budded a few peach trees early in the morning. I Called in Presidents Young Office. An 
express had Come in from deer Creek. Brought the report that our Emigration was getting along 
vary well. The Chienes had stolen 480 Head of General Harney Beef Cattle. Col Sumner had 
been out with his Command 10 day longer than He was rationed for & fears of his friends was 
that He was Cut off. General Harney was intending to remove all mormon stations on the road & 
go by forced marches so that no word would reach the mormons in Utah before him. President 
Young said I have sent General Harney word that I wish for peace & do not wish to fight any 
body but He must not Come Here with his anney. If he undertakes it I shall stop him. 

He said to Brother Mathews when you get in Calafomia the people will try to stop you & hedge 
you up so that you Cannot strengthen us. You must be upon the watch tower. 

The Nation is determined to make us free. They are detennined to drive us to defend our selves 
& become independant. The Nation is breaking to peases in spirit. Their is no union among them 
& before the United States get through trying to destroy us they will want to let out the Job. I told 
the people years ago that if they would let us alone we would Conv[ert?] & revolutionize the 
world. If they did not let us alone but under [took?] to break us up we should spread abroad the 
faster & do the work so much the sooner & we will do it if this nation now makes war upon us 
we will be free & build up the kingdom of God the sooner. 

The people have tried all the time to destroy us but they have failed all the time. When the 
government Called for 500 of our men they had no idea that we would comply with their request. 
This plan was laid to destroy the saints & [Thomas?] Benton then had orders in his pocket to 
destroy the Monnons if they refused. 

Jesus said the time would Come when we should sell our Coat & buy a sword. That time has 
come and we have got to go & deliver ourselves from our enemies & the Lord will help us. He 
will fight our battles & we will become an independant kingdom. 


Page54 




I feel well & I will tell you why if I am right and I know I am and that is this people are now 
much nearer their Fathers face than they ever were before. They are united and willing to do the 
will of God and this Causes me to rejoice. The people now fell to say it is the kingdom of God or 
nothing. It is not my farm or my house but the kingdom of God. This is the case with this people. 

Brother Kimball said Old Buck was now free. The yoke was off his neck & it would not be upon 
his neck again. Many other remarks were made but not written. There were present B. Young H 
C. Kimball D H. Wells O Hyde W Woodruff J Taylor Capt Hooper Joseph Young Ferrymore 
Little. 

Presidet Young said that I am satisfied that the Post Master in Calafomia was authorized to open 
our Mail & read our Letters & retain what He pleased & send on what He pleased. I will insure 
that our Letters to the Elders on the Isles of the Sea will be opened & read. I pray the Lord to 
reveal to those Brethren what our desire is that they may come home. 

President Young Came into the Historians office at 15 minuts to 2 oclok. He sent for me. I was at 
home. I immediately went to the office. Presidets Young Wells & F D Richards was in the office. 
Presidet Young said to me as I came in Have you a team? I told him I had a pair of small Ponies. 
He asked If I Could spare them. I Hesitated a moment & said Yes sir, I Can do any thing that is 
wanted. He then said I have a good pair of Horses that I want to let you have, as you are 
labouring here. I was taken quite surprised. It Came vary unexpeted to me. I excepted the Horses 
& was thankful though perhaps I did not say it at the time. 

Brother Wells went & showed them to me. I took them home. There were a fine large pair of 
sorrell Horses. They were offered 200 bushels of wheat for them to day. 

Presidet Young staid 3+ hours in Compiling his History. He remarked that the revelation upon a 
plurality of wives was given to Joseph Smith. He revealed it to Oliver Cowdery alone upon the 
solem pledge that He would not reveal it or act upon it it but He did act upon it in a secret 
manner & that was the cause of his overthrow. 

President Young also said that the United States are driving this people to war sooner than is for 
their good for we are civilizing the Indians & if they would give us time we would give them a 
knowledge so that when they do fight the Gentiles that they would have some Judgment & not 
kill women & Children & those who ought not to be killed. There is now many of the emigration 
on the way to Carson valley. The Gentile emigrants shoot the indians wharever they meet with 
them & the Indians now retaliate & will kill innocent People. One woman who had fitted out to 
come here to investigate Monnonism she was killed & all her teamsters & all these through the 
folly of Emigrants. 

27th I spent the fore noon in the office the afternoon I watered my garden & budded my peach 
orchard with Carringtons 2d Early & his large yellow Peach & Apricott. 

28th I spent the fore part of the day in the House of the Lord giving Endowments. The evening I 


Page55 




spent in the office. 

2 ^ The present signs of the times show that we as a people as the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter 
Day Saints & the Kingdom of God are approaching the most important period & Crices that we 
have ever seen since the organization of the Church. Their is a solemnity & anxiety resting upon 
all Israel. The Government of the United Staes have now entered the field as our persecuters & 
are detennined in their harts to destroy us from off the Earth as far as it is in their power. The 
President James Buchannan & the Congress of the Nation containing 35,000,000 people have 
sent an Armey of men numbering some 3,000 anned with all instruments of death to destroy us 
as a people. They are now marching towards us upon the plains & one or two month from this 
date must decide the case with us whether we have to go out to war and meet in deadly Combat 
this winter or not. The Gentiles are vary wicked & the cup of the United States as a Nation is full 
& they are enemies to God & his kingdom & people. They are determined in their hearts that 
God & his Christ shall have no kingdom on the Earth & they are now about to make war upon 
his saints. The time is at the door that will try mens souls. The Lord has promised to fight the 
battles of his saints. Nevertheless the Saints will be tried whether they will abide in his Covenant 
even unto death whether we are willing to lay down our lives for Christ sake. 

Word has been sent out to Call in the Elders from abroad from among the Gentiles, & the gospel 
has begun to go to the Lamanites & the Lord is about to remember his Covenant with that people. 
The Judgments of our God must now soon be poured out upon the Gentile world & the Children 
of Jacob & the House of Israel must go forth & fulfill their destiny & help build up Zion. All 
nations are becomeing vary wicked. 

May the Lord give us grace according to our day & help us to stand the test & prove in the hour 
of trial & temptation true to our God, our Brethren, & our covenants. And I ask the Lord in the 
Name of Jesus Christ to Preserve the Presidency of this Church with the Cities people & Records 
of the Saints from the hands of wicked and ungodly men. I Pray that the Lord will preserve me 
for a season that I may labour to assist in preserving & keeping a Record of this Church & 
kingdom & the dealings of God with us & preserve me O Lord from dishonouring my Calling or 
priesthood but give me faith power & grace to pass through whatever I may be Called to meet. 

It appears as though the whole world was about to make war upon the kingdom of God. In years 
that are past & gone we have had towns Cities, Counties & States with the Govornor & people 
against us. Now the whole Nation has risen up against us. Vary well, let lightnings flash & 
thunders roll & Earth quake bellow and let all hells dark Hosts gather in battle array against God 
and his Christ against the Church & kingdom of our God, against Brigham Heber & Daniel & the 
Twelve Apostles of the Lamb of God, & all the followers. Let the Heathen rage & the people 
imagin vain things. Let them take council to destroy the Lords Anointed. Yet God will laugh at 
their Calamity & mock when their fear Comes for their destruction shall come like a whirlwind 
even in an instant suddenly it shall over take them like a woman in traval & their shall be no 
power to deliver, & all the Judgments which God the Lord, or Prophets Apostles or Holy men 
have said shall Come upon them shall be fulfilled upon their heads & not one Jot or tittle shall 


Page56 




fail. 


Rejoice O ye Heavens & be Glad O Earth & all the righteous who dwell therein for the Lord God 
Omnipotent reigneth & his will will be done in all things for he holds the destiny of all men in 
his hands the wicked as well as the righteous. 

Let the prayers of thy people O God Come up into thine Eares & let them be answered upon the 
Head of the wicked & Let the blood of all thy Prophets O God be avenged upon the Earth untill 
the wicked shall scease to reign & untill the Earth Shall be Cleansed from all the abomination 
which now dwell upon it. Fulfill thy Covenants O God which thou hast made with Israel in the 
last days & let the Gentiles who dwell upon this land be spedily Cut off inasmuch as they will not 
repent Send thy Judgments O God into the Annies of the United States who are Coming against 
us to battle & let them be destroyed that they shall have no power over thy saints any more at all. 

Aug 29th I spent the day in the office on the History. 

30th Sunday I attended meeting at the Tabernacle all day. Leuis Stewart first spoke a short time. 
Was followed by Albert Canington then Presidets Heber C Kimball & Brigham Young. They 
spoke much to our Edifycation. In the Afternoon John Taylor, Orson Hyde, & Presidet H C 
Kimball [spoke]. We had a good meeting all day. 

I attended the prayer Circle in the evening. The Contempable speeches of Senators Stephen 
Arnold Douglas was read & the answer of Albert Carrington to the speech was also read Also the 
intention of Govornor Young in Case we were invaded by an Enemy. Many remarks were made 
upon the subject of the present Crices which is apparently approaching us. 

President Young said that many of the brethren had many fears about the Lamanites because the 
gentiles were making them presents. You need have no fears upon this subject for if the nation 
gives them a few millions it will not be all that is their due & then they will turn around & take 
the rest. We need have no fears but what the Lamanites will be prepared to fill their mission. I 
cannot feel that the time has come for us to do a great deal of hard fighting but I believe the Lord 
will fight our Battles. When the time Comes for us to do a great deal of fighting we shall have 
help & strength and the promises of God will be verified unto us. 

3 1st I spent the day in the office on history. H C Kimball was with us 2 Hours hearing his history 
Read. 


September 

Sept 1st I Called at the Office. G. A. Smith was present. He arived home last evening. I Called 
upon President Young. He went into the Historians office & dictated his history from 1/2 past 10 
oclok till 1/2 past 12 oclok. Brother Hamlin arived to day from the Santa Clara Mission with 
some 12 indian Chiefs who had Come to see President Young. One was the Chief. His name is 
Tots Igavets the Chief of the Pie[ds?] of the deserts & Santaclara & Rio Virgin. He had a Chief 
with him of the Indians at Harmony Canosh the Chief of the Parvants & Arnon Walker. Brother 


Page57 




Canosh while driveing his horses down to the carrall in a waggon his horses got tangled up in the 
tongue & harses & they fell in a pile & before we Could get them up while lying upon their side 
they fought like two tigers. We were more than 5 minutes liberating them. Presidet Young had an 
interview with the Indians for about One hour. 

Mr Eddy Came into the office & spent several hours looking at our works. He is the partner of 
Mr Sharp the inventing & manufacturer of Sharps Rifle. 

2d I spent the day in the office on History. 

3d Thursday Fast day Most of the people spent the day in Fasting & prayer. 

4th I spent most of the day in the endowment House. Moroni our Indian Boy is vary sick with 
sumthing like a white swelling in his ann. 

5th We had an Express arived this morning stateing that Col Johnson was at Ash Hollow with 
some 2,000 men travelling some 15 miles per day. Col Sumner had burned some 300 shiane 
lodges killed some few Indian & 2 soldiers killed & 7 wounded & 60 men with Capt Jones & the 
wounded to Fort kerney. The Chians overtook them & Cut them to peices so bad that no trace of 
them Could be found. Our Emigration was getting along vary well. The Lord is hearing our 
prayers & hedging up the way of our Enemies. Gen Hamey was retained as the Military 
Govornor of kansas. 

6th Sunday I attended meeting at the Tabernacle. H C Kimball spoke then President Brigham 
Young Presented Thomas B Marsh the formor President of the Twelve Apostles to the 
Congregation to look upon & behold the reck & relic of a man who once was an Apostle & a 
presidet of Apostles but had apostitized & staid in the world untill he had become old, [a 
cripel?], palsied, miserable unhappy & worthless so much so that his wife the world & the devil 
had all Cast him off as of no use to any body. He had now come to the Saints for mercy & help. 

Presidet Young made a few remarks Concerning him. Then Thomas B. Marsh then arose & 
addressed the people for a short time. Warned the people not to Apostitize & look to him as an 
example of misery & one who had suffered the wrath of God in consequence of Denying the 
faith. He wished to be forgiven by the [Saints]. Presidet Young put the vote to the Assemble if 
they would receive him into full fellowship not withstanding all his heinous sins. All voted to a 
man to recieve him. Then Presidet Young Addressed the people & the meeting closed. 

PM. W. Woodruff spoke to the people & bore testimony to what had been said by the presidency. 
Was followed by President Wells. 

I attended the prayer Meeting in Presidents upper room. We herd letters read from Samuel 
Richards & Snider H. S. Eldridge & Goosebeck. President Young said Brother Bemhisel I 
presume we shall not have any one in Congress next winter to present our memorials & interest. 
(J.M.B. No I think not.) I think it will make some of the People squirm when they hear that I am 
taking the property which the Government has sent into this Territory. 


Page58 




Some of our Brethren going down to the states met about 60 of the Chians. They were vary 
Friendly to them. The Indians stole 800 fat Cattle & the rest was driven back to the states so the 
Army has no Cattle with them ownly for their present use. Some said that they believed that 
those Indians who stole the cattle were half monnon & began to dam them. Brother Murdock 
remarked we are all mormons here in this Company & I dont wish to hear my friends abused. 

Presidet Young said what will the people think in Europe when they Come to hear that Brigham 
Young is at the Head of the vigilance Committies in Calafomia & the Cansas Troubles & that the 
Government of the United States Could not remove him untill the Lord see fit to let them? The 
world accuse me of controlling the affairs of Calafomia & kansas &c. The people do believe that 
we have a Band Called the Danites but how Could they exist so long without sheding Blood? For 
we Cannot find that they have killed any body. But I do not know of any such men. 

I think that James Buchanan has got in a Bad fix. He has got the yoke on his neck & has to carry 
it alone with no ox to Carry the other End but He is pounding his own shins & will soon pound 
the shins of others for the moment He gave Consent to send an anney to destroy this people he 
placed himself as the shedder of innocent Blood & the Judgments of God will follow him. When 
war does break out between the north & south it will be the most bloody. 

G A. Smith said that the ownly thing for the Presidet of the United States to get out of his trouble 
[was] ownly to get a Bill through Congress to admit any territory as soon as they had population 
Enough to organize a State Government & to be received at once into the Government or Union 
with equal privileges with the other States. 

Presidet Young then said let me suggest a matter. Brother Smith is presiding at Limhi salmon 
River. Now do we not want a station about half way from here say near fort Hall? Should we not 
send men say 20 to make a station there? It was thought best to do so. He said that the north is 
the place for us & not the South. No one but the Saints would want the Cold North Country. This 
is the \ of this Continent & I think we had better keep near the lock & keep the ^ in our own 
hand. If we send a Company we want to send them this fall so that we can put in grain there this 
season. 

Presidet Young came into the office a short time. Thomas B Marsh spent the fore noon with us 
helping about his history. I spent most of the day in the office. 

7th I budded some peach trees this morning. I went to the office at 1 1 oclok & spent the 
remainder of the day in the office. 

8th I budded peach trees in the morning & spent most of the day in the office. Capt Van Vleit 
arived this evening in this City. He had an Interview with Gov Young in the evening. 

9th Capt Van Vleit met with the the Govornor in the social Hall at 9 oclok, with the presidency & 
Twelve & some 100 citizens. He presented Gov Young with a letter of Instructions of request 
which was read befor the assembly & but little said & a great deal thought. 


Page59 




Capt Van Vleit asked if there was lumber to be bought & grain & Hay &c. Presidet [ ] said 

that there was a plenty in the Country. Presidet Young asked if there was any one present who 
could supply capt Van Vleit any lumber that he wanted. Brother Samuel Snider arose & said that 
He could supply [40/47], 000 feet of Lumber. No other one said any thing. Presidet Young had 
private Conversation with the captain. 

In the afternoon President Young walked with Captain Van Vliet through his Garden & orchard 
& through Professor Carringtons. The capt Asked Mrs Carrington if she was willing to Cut down 
her fine peach orchard for her faith & Religin. She said yes and would set up nights to do it if it 
became necessary. 

10th I went into the Big field with a Brother Thomas to set him to work ploughing my field for 
wheat. I spent the afternoon in the office. I heard G A Smith’s History read. President Young took 
Capt Stewart Van Vliet through his house introduced to his family &c. 

1 1th I spent this day in the Endowment House. We gave 83 their endowment. 

12th We got in an express this morning saying that there was some 900 troops on the way this 
side of Laramie & some 12 government Baggage trains. 

Capt Van Vleit Came into the office & President Young had a good deal of Conversation with 
him. He said to him I do not want to fight the United States but if they drive us to it we shall do 
the best we can & I will tell you as God lives that we shall Come off Conquerer for we trust in 
God. For God has set up his kingdom on the Earth & it will never fall but it will stand. We shall 
do all we can not to fight but if they drive us to it God will overthrow them. If they would let us 
alone & say to the mobs now you may Go & kill the Monnons if you Can but we will have 
nothing to do with it this is all we would ask of them. But for the Government of the United 
States to array their armies against us it is to despicable & damnable for any honorable Nation & 
God will have them in derission for doing it. The Government has all the time endeavoured to 
destroy us in an underhanded manner. But Now if they Come against us we will whip them all 
the time and you will see that we will do it. The United States are sending their armies to hold us 
still untill a Mob can Come and kill us and they have done this all [the] time. 

We are the supporters of the United States Constitution & we love the Constitution & Laws of 
the United States But it is the Corrupt Administration of those Laws which we are suffering 
under & not the Laws. If the Laws had been Carried out in Missouri it would have hung Gov 
Boggs Between the heavens & the Earth and all his friends who was in the murdering & 
expelling the Saints from the states. They shot down the mormons whenever they could. They 
killed Joseph & Hiram. Then when Col Harden Came into Nauvoo with his armey He did not 
inquire who killed Joseph Smith or Hiram or any of the saints who had been kill but enquired for 
some missing Man that we knew Nothing about & said he should Hold me responsible for the 
life of that man. This has been the course with the Government all the time. 


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We got up a Memorial or declaration to the Congress of the United States last winter. The 
Declaration was then read to the Capt Van Vleit. After hearing it he said I Cannot find any fault 
with it ownly it is Couched in vary strong language. Presidet Young said that is what I intended. 

And I will now ask Capt Van Vleit if Drummond was not the maine cause of the United States 
sending there Armies against us. "I think it is. There is not any of the government Officers which 
have been sent here who have any interest with us. But they have tried to destroy us. 

Capt Van Vleit said this is the Case with most men in the Territory. They received their offices as 
a steping stone to the senatorship. But they have no interest for the people. This people have been 
lied about the worst of any people I ever saw. The greatest hold the world have now upon you is 
they accuse you of Burning 900 vol of the United States Statutes. Thomas Williams who was one 
of the owners of the Books which were burned denies their being any Books of the United States 
being burned. 

I have told the people all the time all I asked of them was to tell the truth about us to pay their 
debts & steal Nothing. They are welcome to go their way. Now if this government has arived at 
that state that they will try to kill the people for their religion No honorable man should be afraid 
of them. 

President Young then told the story about the Quaker that a Yankey went to whip. The Quaker 
said that he was not the man that he wanted. He had not done any thing wrong. But the man said 
He would whip him any how So the Quaker laid down his hat & Coat & said lie there religion 
untill I whip this man & he did whip him tremendiously. It will be so with the United States if 
they insist in whiping us they will get awfully whiped. 

Capt Van Vleit we have treated all men as well as we have you who have been sent here as 
officers of the US government. We wish still to treat them well and we would like to ward off 
this Blow if we Could But the United States are determined to drive us to fight. We cannot do 
any thing but what the government will take exception to it. 

They will kill us if they Can. I have prof of this. They killed Joseph & Hiram in Jail not with 
standing the faith of the Govornor the Armey & the States was pleged to protect them, & when 
they had killed them they then got a writ for me. I Carried a large Bowie knife with me and I said 
that any man that laid hands upon my Sholder and said Mr Young you are my prisioner I would 
send that man to hell across lots & I have said that all the time since and I say it now. I have 
broaken no law neither will I be taken by any United States officer to be killed as they have killed 
Joseph. They did once take a Bogus Brigham which was Brother Miller & took him to Carthage 
& did not find out his mistake untill they got him there. 

Capt Van Vleit said that I do not think that it is the intention of the Government to take you but 
to instill a New Governor in this Territory. 

President Young said I Believe that you tell the truth that you believe this but you do not know 


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their intention as well as I do. When you get away from here you will think of a great many 
things which you have seen and heard. The people have all the time accused [us] of Colleagueing 
with the Indians against the Government & they were much afraid that Joseph Smith would go 
among the Indians & they watched to keep him away from them. But now they have driven us 
into their midst and now I want you to watch the signs of the times & you will see that God will 
work against that Nations who are trying to destroy both the Indians & Monnons. The 
Government has become Corrupt & they are the ones who are breaking the Constitution of the 
United States & if it is ever saved it will be saved by the Mormons who are the Elders of Israel. 

13th Sunday I arose in the morning saddled my horse rode into my field 4 miles & back. I then 
went to the House of Sister Foss & laid hands upon her with Brother Smoot as she was sick. We 
then went to Meeting in the Tabernacle & John Taylor Preached a splendid discourse upon the 
first Principles of the gospel. 

He was followed by Presidet Brigham Young who said that he had had the persecutions of the 
saints before him all the morning that He was righteously angry. He was so angry he could not 
preach. But He did preach in the power of God & told the people his Feelings. Capt Van Vleit set 
by & when Presidet Young spoke of the wickedness & Corruption of the Government it made 
him feel [ ]. 

At the close of the meeting we met with the missionaries who were appointed to lecture upon the 
subject of Home Manufacturing. We then went into Council with the presidency to select a 
company of missionaries to go & make a settlement on Black foot fork. 63 volunteered & 4[8/2?] 
of them were Chosen. 

At the close of this Council I went direct to the Meeting at the Tabernacle. Charles R Dai[nd?] 
spoke first. He had Just returned from England. When he went on his mission the Twelve 
Blessed him. I was mouth. He said evry word which I proclaimed upon his head was fulfilled to 
the vary letter. 

He was followed by G. A. Smith who spoke of his southern tour, &c. He was followed by 
Presidet Young who gave Uncle Sam Considerable Hell fire for their wickedness. 

At the close of the meeting I met with the Missionaries again. Presidet Young made a few 
remarks to them upon their organization. We then went into our Prayer Circle & President Young 
feasted the Brethren upon Peaches & grapes as we had so many meetings we had had no time for 
Eating through the day. 

At the Close of the prayer Capt Van Vleit met us at the close of the Stairs & said he had an 
express from the states & wished to meet with Gov Young. I then went to the Historians office & 
prepaired :]■ 3 letters to I. F. Carter to O. Pratt & T. B. H Stenhouse. 

I then went to Capt Hoopers & met with Capt Van Vleit a short time after Presidet Brigham 
Young H C Kimball D. H. Wells A. Carrington O Hyde J Taylor & a number of others. Capt Van 


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Vleit was preparing to leave at 3 oclok in the morning. President Young was now to have his last 
interview with him & he wished to talk to him in a plain manner. 

He said He wished Capt Van Vliet to report at Washington Just as things were here. He said I 
have seen the suffering of this people through the Persecutions of the people of the United States 
for the last 25 years and I will not bear it any longer. We have always treated the United States 
Officers well but they have Constantly lied about us & tried to destroy us all the time. We would 
still have received their govomors & officers if they had sent them here without an Anny but 
inasmuch as they are now disposed to send an Anney here to hold us still while others run their 
red hot Iron into us & then kill us we will now say that we will not have neither their soldiers 
Armies or officers any more here at all. And you may tel them so. We will Just fight for our 
liberty & rights from this day forth. 

Whenever I think of letting their troops come in here and their officers I can see nothing but 
death & darkness before me and before this people. But when I say they shall not Come here 
light bursts upon me and I Can see life before me & this people and this is the way all of this 
people feel. 

The intention of the Government is to destroy us & this we are detennin they shall not do. If the 
government of the United States perish in sending Annies to destroy us in the name of the Lord 
we shall Conquer them. If the Government Calls for volunteers in Calafomia & the people turn 
out to come to destroy us they will find their own buildings in flames before they get far from 
home & so throughout the United States. Again if they Commence the war I shall not hold the 
Indians Still by the fist any longer for white men to shoot at them but I shall let them go ahead & 
do as they please and I shall Carry the war into their own land and they will want to let out the 
Job before they get half through. 

And even should an Anney of 50,000 men get into this valley when they got here they would 
find nothing but a Banen waste. We should bum evry thing that was wood & evry acre of grass 
that would bum and you may tell them that they must bring with them their forage for their [ | 

and muls for they will not find any thing to eat in this Tenitory when they come. 

Again you may tell them they must stop all emigration across this Continent for they Cannot 
tread in safety. The Indians will kill all that attempt it. You may tell Judge Douglass that when 
He Comes here again to enter into a treaty of peace we shall dictate those terms of peace & not 
him as He did before. 

Capt Van Vleit said that if Our Government pushed forward this thing & made war upon us He 
should withdraw from the Anny for he would not have a hand in sheding the blood of American 
Citizens. 

After closing His remarks Presidet Young said God had set up his kingdom upon the Earth & it 
was here & the Lord would sustain that kingdom & he would destroy all that fought against it 
And if the Armies of the United [States] Came against us the Lord would permit them to be 


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destroyed. 

At the close of the remarks the Presidet said to Capt Van Vleit as Citizens we are friends & 
shook hands in a Friendly manner and [wished] each other well. We all wished the Captain well. 

I went home & put up a Box of peaches of 32 dozen for Hon J.M.B and Capt Van Vleit. I then 
went to the Historians office. From there to Presidet Youngs office & conversed with Presidets 
Young Wells & Carrington untill after 12 oclok at night. I then went home & retired to rest. 

J. M. Bemhisel was Blessed & set apart for Washington. I wrote his Blessing. 

14th President Young spent the fore part of the day in the Historians office Hearing his history 
read. In the Afternoon He met in Council with H. C. Kimball D. H. Wells the Twelve & several 
others & resolved to proclaim the Territory of Utah under Marshall Law & the proclamation of 
the Govornor was read & excepted. 

15th I spent the day in the office on the Journal. We had a Hard wind & rain during the night. 

16 It is Cold to day. I spent the day in the office. Some indians called upon President Young. The 
Chief of the Bannocks was among them. Brother Hamlin was here with the Chief of the 
D[esert?] Pi[edes?] Totsigauah. He was ordained an Elder. He called to see me & my garden. I 
gave him some peaches & peach pitts to take home & plant. Presidet Young said He 
w[anted/ished?] the Elders to marry the squaws of the Tribes to fulfill the commandment of God 
&c. 

17th A Cold day. I have a severe Cold & sore throat. I spent the day in the office. 

18th I spent the day in the office on Journal writing & History. 

T9th I was quite unwell with the Quincy soar throat & stomach. I took a dose of chien pepper 
upon an Empty cold stomach. It set me into the cramp & I suffered imm[ensely?] for half an 
hour. 

I went into the endowment House & spent half a day. I spent the evening in the office. I took into 
the office 2 trunk strong water proof to keep records in. 

An express arived this evening from the Brethren in the mountains. They bring word that 700 of 
the Army were at the pacific springs. They kept but 5 men on guard to take charge of their [ ] 

Animals & they would not give them g[....] for fear they would run away. They were travelling 
about 15 miles per day. Their animals were much worn down and feed was scearse. Our own 
Brethren many of them are sick are living upon bread alone & they want provisions sent to them. 

I had a sick night with sore throat or Quinzy. 

19th President Young came into the office a short time in the Morning & herd his history read. 
Orders are Issued this Morning for a number of waggons to be fitted & go with provisions to our 


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Brethren in the mountains. I was Called upon to send a horse team. Col Harimans Regiment was 
out to day with all their Baggage waggons they made quite a display. 

20th Sunday I was quite sick all day. I did not attend the meeting through the day. I attended the 
prayer Circle in the evening. 

2 1 22 23 & 24 I spent this time in threshing out my wheat. I was sick & not able to labour but I 
stood at the tale End of the threshing mashine for three days with a severe cold sore throat 
sumthing like the Quincy. I was up Early & late & hard at work. My Cold broke up on the 24 & I 
was better. 

I had 500 bushels of wheat on 12 1/2 Acres making Just 40 bushels to the Acre. I sowed one 
bushel of Clear white Club on one Acre of Ground the poorest acre I had & it had no water that 
produced Just 40 bushel but some smut but no smut in my taos. I had a great amount of straw 
enough for a thousand bushel of wheat. I had 300 bushels of wheat left after paying for sowing 
watering Harvesting & threshing & Cleaning. I paid 30 bushels of tithing upon that. 

25th I spent the fore part of the day in the Endowment House. I spent the afternoon in the office. 

Elder Nathaniel V. Jones arived this morning for [from] the United States Armey with the 
express. He visited with Capt Van Vleit both Redgments. The first was the 10th Ridgment that 
was a full Regiment. The officers were young & full of fire & they swore they would Come in 
any how they Could whip out Utah. Capt Van Vleit advised them not to Come for they Could get 
nothing. They would have to fight their way. But they swore they would fight their way through. 
After Van Vleit left them they marched 30 miles instead of 15 the next day. The 2d Regiment he 
met with they were old officers. They considered the matter over more & thought it an 
imposition to be sent out here as a political movement to kill innocent people or to get killed. 
They will be at the pacific springs to night & our Brethren will commence operation upon them. 

26th I did not feel well this morning. I was quite poorly. I opened 2 Boxes of Goods which Dr 
Bernhisel sent me the most of which I took to His family by his order. I had some conversation 
with Gen D. H. Wells upon the subject of going into the mountains. He said He should soon go 
take with him G. A. Smith & John Taylor as his Councellors take but a part of his staff. He 
wished me to stay at home in the office for the present. This was according to Council. 

The following Conversation passed between President Young & Capt Van Vleit not before 
recorded in this Journal: 

Capt Van Vleit said I think that Congress will try to do all they can against you. President Young 
said if God inspires any man to speak for us it will be well. We have got to trust in God. If you 
will speak in favor of us & I think you will the Lord will bless you for so doing. He will require it 
of you. We have refuted lies so long we have got tiered of it and we shall now trust in God for 
the future. Congress Could send out an investigating Committee to kansas or any other place but 
to Utah. But upon the mere rumour of liars they Could send out 2,000 armed soldiers to Utah to 


Page65 




destroy the people without investigating the subject at all. 

Capt Van Vleit said the Government may yet send out one to Utah & Consider it policy before 
they get through with it. President Young said I do think that God has sent you out here & that 
Good will grow out of it. I was glad when I learned that you was Coming. 

Capt Van Vleit said I am vary anxious to get back to Washington as soon as I Can. I herd 
officially that General Harney was recalled to Kansas to officiate as Govomor. I shall stop the 
train on hams fork on my own responsibility & leave them there. 

President Young said if we Can Ceep the peace for this winter I do think there will be sumthing 
turn up that may save so much shedding of Blood. 

Capt V. said I think so to. The troops will have to stop on hams fork for their provisions will be 
late Coming up. I do not think their is more than 1,000 troops Coming. Their is one rigment from 
the florida war. Their is not more than 300 men. They have been reduced by the survey. That 
florida war has Cost many millions of money. It is a speculating scheme. Their is not more than 
100 warriors & they have got hiding places which No man Can find. It is seldom you Can kill 
one. You may accidentally stumball onto one as you would a partridge. Well this regiment are 
old men & the regiment is worn out. 

27th Sunday I Called upon Elder Taylor in the Morning to get the History of Joseph which He 
had written but He informed me he had left it at the Historians office the evening before. He was 
about preparing to go into the Mountains with G A Smith & Gen D. H. Wells & his staff or a part 
of it. They Got ready & left the City about 1 oclok P.M. 

I attended meeting in the tabernacle. The returned Missionaries occupied the fore noon untill near 
12 oclok. I then addressed the people for a short time. In the afternoon Brother Case from the 
Cheri[kes?] Nation spoke a short time. Was followed by Heber C Kimball who gave a vary 
interesting discourse. 

I attended the prayer Meeting in the evening. President Young was quite unwell. 

28th We received an express this morning from the Anny in the Mountains saying that our 
enemies were marching strongly towards us. They tryed to stampede the Animals of the Army 
but found them all chained by the feet so they Could not run. A small Company also tried to 
stampede some oxen & they failed in [it]. 

Brother Jones informed me that Capt Van Vleit tried to pursuade the Armey to stay on hams fork 
to winter or in that region but the 10th Regiment swore that they had started for Salt Lake & they 
would go there. Capt Van Vleit told them that we should not let them Come but they would find 
a diferent warfare from any thing they had met with. 

The day was occupied by getting the Brethren ready for the mountains & going out. Quite a 
Company went out. I do not know the number. 


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29th We have another Express in this morning saying that the Anney are rapidly marching 
towards us. Will soon be at Bridger & they wish men immediately sent out. 

Elder John D. Lee also arived from Harmony with an express 'T-Jf and an awful tale of Blood. A 
Company of Calafornia Emigrants of about 150 men women & Children many of them belonged 
to the mob in Missouri & Illinois they had many Cattle & Horses with them. As they travelled 
along south they went damning Brigham Young Heber C. Kimball & the Heads of the Church 
saying that Joseph Smith ought to have been shot a long time before he was. They wanted to do 
all the evil they Could so they poisoned Beef & gave it to the Indians & several of them died. 
They poisioned the springs of water. Several of the saints died. The Indians became imaged at 
their Conduct & they surrounded them on a prairie & the Emigrants formed a Bulwark of ther 
waggons & dug an Entrenchment up to the Hubs of there waggons but the Indians fought them 5 
days untill they killed all their men about 60 in Number. They then rushed into their Carrall & 

Cut the throats of their women & Children except some 8 or 10 Children which they brought & 
sold to the whites. They striped the men & women Naked & left them stinking in the boiling sun. 

When Brother Lee found it out he took some men & went & buried their bodies. It was a horrid 
awful Job. The whole air was filled with an awful stench. Many of the men & women was 
ro[otten?] with the pox Note(3) before they were hurt by the Indians. The Indians obtained all 
ther Cattle Horses & property guns &c. 

Their was another large Company of Emigrants who had 1,000 head of Cattle who was also 
damning both Indians & Mormons. They were afraid of shareing the same fate. Brother Lee had 
to send interpeters with them to the Indians to try to save their lives while at the same time they 
are trying to kill us. 

We spent most of the day in trying to get the Brethren ready to go to the mountains. 

Brother Brigham when speaking of the cutting of the throats of women & children as the Indians 
done South Said that it was heart rending that Emigration must stop as he had before said. 

Brother Lee said that He did not think their was a drop of innocent Blood in their Camp for he 
had too of their Children in his house & he Could not get but one to kneel down in prayer time & 
the other would laugh at her for doing it & they would sware like pirats. The scene of Blood has 
Commenced & Joseph said we should see so much of it that it would make our hearts sick. 

I spent the fore part of the night getting Robert & Wilford ready to go to the mountains. 

Tilth I arose Early this morning & took my horses & put them With Parley P Pratts Mules to draw 
the Bagage waggon for 50 men that was Called out of the 14th ward. They were to start at 6 
oclok but did not get ready till 8 oclok. I finally Concluded to let Robert go & retain Wilford a 
few days for they had left their wheat Ba[gs?] standing in the field whare they had been sowing 
through the day & the ground not dragged whare they had sowed. They started about 9 oclok. 

I then went & took some things to the fair. Then went into the field. Finished sowing a 5 acre lot 


Page67 




& Draged it in. Took a load of Com & Come home. I then heard that Dr Hurt had got 300 
Indians around him & ran away to the states. 

We got An express in to night saying that the troops were near Bridger. Had formed into 3 
Bodies in travelling. Cummings said that if they marched to Bridger He should fight them. 
General Wells sent word for them to let them Come on to Echo Canyon & there give them Battle. 

30th I met at 9 oclock at the Deseret Store with the Committee on fruit & flowers & awarded 
premiums according to the best of our Judgment. Other Committies met but their were so many 
of the Brethren gone to the Mountains to meet the Enemy that but little is doing in the fair. 

At 6 oclok this morning the drums beat & an army of soldiers parraded in our streets of some 400 
who were in readiness to march at a moments warning to the seat of war when ordered. We have 
about 800 men in the Mountains. It is a solmum time. The Annies of the Gentiles are making war 
upon us because of our religion & we have to defend ourselves against a Nation of 25,000,000 of 
people & the war has just Commenced. We have to trust in God for the result. We shall do what 
we Can & leave the work in his hands. Their is a still solemnity resting over our City. All are 
anxiously awaiting the arival of the express. I told President Young that I was on hand any 
moment to go into the mountains that He would say the word. 

I walked up in the evening to the presidents office & learned that the Calafornia Mail had arived. 

I heard some letters read one stating that the Government had made arangements to send up light 
drafts?] boats up the Colorado river with men & arms against us from that point. I read several 
paper during the evening. 


October 

Oct 1st I arose Early in the morning & looked for an exp[ress?] signal flag but saw none. No 
express in. I walked to the Historians office & wrote a short time. There was a good deal of 
anxiety through the day waiting for an express. I spent most of the day in the office. 

I visited the state fair. The show was vary Good. There was a great variety of full Cloths was 
presented that were substantial. 

I Called into the Presidets Office. Found Presidet Brigham Young, H C Kimball Carrington G. 
Grant & Wm. Kimball and an express arived from Col J C. Little giving us an account of the 
number of solders which were with him & about Echo Canyon. He wished a spy glass some 
amunition & tools. 

As soon as we got through reading his Letter an Express arived from Gen D H. Wells J Taylor & 
G. A. Smith sent By Joseph A Young & J W Cummings saying that they had sent an express to 
the United States anny Containing Governor Youngs Order for them to surrenders all there arms 
& baggage to Lewis Robinson Quarter Master General at Fort Bridger or to retreat back to the 
States or we should resist them. They were Camped upon Hams fork and they were awaiting an 
Answer to this Messaage & would send an express in as soon as they got it. 


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They related an incident of their trying to stampede their animals but found them not ownly 
hobbled but Chained with a log Chain. One Brother Simons was shot dead through the Head 
acidentally by another Brother. The Body is sent in to his friends. 

Oct 2d I spent the fore part of the day in the Endowment House & the afternoon in the Office. 
Susan Cornelia Woodruff received her Endowment to day. 

3d I spent the day in the office. 

4th Sunday I attended meeting in the bowery. The missionaries spoke during the day mostly. I 
attended prayer meeting in the evening. Emma Woodruff had a son born at 4 oclok PM. 

5th I spent the day in the office. President Young Called into the office & heard a part of the 
account of the death of Joseph by John Taylor. He said that what there was necessary to put into 
Josephs History & publish the rest as John Taylors History. 

6th The General Conference Commenced this morning. I am suffering immensly with pain in the 
Head from over taxing my eyes. I attended in the fore noon & remained at home in the afternoon. 

7th I attended Conference this afternoon. The Conference Closed at night. The time was mostly 
occupied by the missionaries & the 12. Presidet Young spoke at the Close of the meeting. 

8th I spent the day at home grinding out some of my sugar Cane for makeing Molasses. It works 
well in this Country. We got in an express saying that a Company under Lot Smith burned up 50 
waggons of the Government mostly Corn & while it was burning General Hamey & his Cavalry 
Came up & that the same Company had gone East to bum up what they Could. It was thought 
there would be some desided action Soon. 

9th I have 2 men pressing out my sugar Cane. 

10th I spent the day with 2 men grinding sugar Cane. I worked vary hard and was unwell all day. 
Mrs Woodruff made a Costeral and all of us who partook of it appeared poisoned. We became 
vary sick & vomited vary hard. We Could not learn any way that it Could have been poisoned 
ownly a spoon was boiled in it that was silver and it was supposed that nitrat of silver came from 
the spoon which was boiled in it. I was vary sick through the night. 

/I Blessed Emmas Child & named Him Hiram Smith jr. One of President Youngs wives died to 
day Clara Chase Young./ 

1 1th Sunday I was sick all day and remained at home. It was a hard rainy day. Sister Young was 
buried to day. 

Oct 12, 1857 I am some better to day. I spent most of the day in the office. I gathered 1/2 a bushel 
of peaches to day which was the last I had. I hiered several men to day to dig potatoes. 4 men dug 
through most of the day & ownly got 25 bushel. 


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13 th I went into the field with the men to dig potatoes & had the same Number of men & instead 
of diging 25 as they did yesterday they dug 71, & I drew them home & put them in my sullar. 

The Brethren Came in from the East & brought in 153 Head of Cattle. 3 teamsters & one deserter 
from the Anny helped drive them in. The deserter reported that Neither Johnson nor Harney nor 
the Govornor or Judges or any of the Territorial Officers had arived at the Armey neither any 
females. He said the soldiers were ownly allowed 3 buiscuit 2 Cups of Coffee & a small peace of 
Beef per day that they were not half fed. They had 75 waggons burned & the Contents of 76. 2 
waggons saved. The Captain of the Company who burned them saved all the private property of 
the teamsters & when the waggons were burned they gave back the teamsters all their arms 

amunition & c. One Brother had his knee shattered by the accidental discharge of a [ ]. They 

had to Carry him on a litter a long distance. He suffered much with it. 

1 spent the evening with Presidet Young. 1 heard a man give a rehersal of the burning of the 
waggons back on the road. Woodmancer spoke of it. 

14th 1 spent the day in the office in the forenoon hearing John Taylors Account of the death of 
Joseph & Hiram in Carthage Jail read. In the afternoon 1 spent the time on Brigham Youngs 
History. 

The sanpet Company arived in the City Comprizing 100 men & 1 1 Baggage waggons. They 
marched 5 men abreast. Col Rockwood informed me that there were 1,100 men of our soldiers in 
the mountains & 700 camped on the public square & that we Could raise 1,500 men in this City 
& in 15 hours we Could place 300 armed men in Echo Canyon. 

An express arived at 25 minuts to 6 oclok By Joseph Young jr. Benjamin Stringham Brought a 
letter from General Wells stateing that numbers of the Anny wished to desert the Army & Come 
into the valley if they had protection. The Anny was weakning daily. The Chief Officer sent a 
vary polite Note to Governor Young acknowledgeing the recept of the Deseret News which He 
had sent them. 

Capt Lot Smith has gone East to Officiate in his office in watching for the interest of Utah. 

The Enemy were mostly hemed in but no disposition manifest to shed Blood on Either side. They 
are in a Close place. Their provissions are fast diminishing & their is but little prosper of any 
thing but Starvation before them. We have prayed that the Lord would lead them into the pit 
which they have dug for the Saints & the Lord has heard our prayers & our Enemies are in the pit 
& a fair prospet of their being destroyed without our sheding their Blood. 

151 am quite unwell this morning but 1 spent the day in the office. I was in a meeting of the 
board of Directors till 1 1 oclok but was sick & hardly able to sit up. 

Oct 16th 1 am vary poorly this morning yet 1 went to the office of President Young. An express 
had Just arived Bringing a long Letter to Govomor Young from Col Allexander Concerning the 


Page70 




present State of affairs also a letter from General Wells. The Brethren had taken a heard of Cattle 
of some 700 head & were bringing them in. It was reported in the Anny that Col Johnson would 
soon be up with the 700 Cavalry but this is uncertain. 

Col Allexander letter was rather savey. Threatened us with Extermination if we opposed him. He 
Considered himself able to Come in & Carry out the Commands of Government. Governor 
Young sent him a strong answer asking him why he staid in Camp on hams Fork for a month if 
he Considered he had force enough to Carry out his orders. He gave him to understand it was 
now the kingdom of God & the kingdom of the Devil & we trusted in God for success & should 
go ah[ead?]. 

\ In turning from this subject to little Children President Young said when some people have 
little Children bom at 6 & 7 months from pregnancy & they live a few hours then die they bless 
them name them & [.] but I dont do it for I think that such a spirit has not a fair Chance for I 
think that such a spirit will have a Chance of occupiying another Tabernacle and develop itself. 
This is new dootrin yet it looks Consistant. What period of Demarkation or age the spirit would 
take another Body we were not infonned. \ 

} I received a letter from G A. Smith & sent one to him. 

17th I spent the day in the office. I was sum better than yesterday. I had a lengthy Conversation 
with A. Lyman about the war. Luke Johnson arived from Echo Canyon to day. The Brethren took 
700 Head of Cattle from the Army while they were marching. I married & sealed Matthias 
Cowley & Sarah Elizabeth Foss at the Altar in the Bonds of matrimony at half past 7 oclock P.M. 
We had a strong wind during the evening. 

18th Sunday ? ^ We met in the Tabernacle. President Young had all his Correspondance with 
Col Allexander of the US Armey read to the Assemble. It was vary rich and Edifying. President 
Young then preached to the Assembly in a vary Edifying manner all of which was reported. He 
said He should prepare for the worst. He should have grain Cashed whare the Enemy Could not 
find it & be prepared to move into the mountains & burn all. Yet He believed we Could keep our 
Enemies Out & still raise Crops in the valley. 

He was followed by Brother Kimball who said that He knew that if we would Harken to Council 
that we should raise grain, eat peaches & Apples & live in our Houses in these rallies untill we 
went to Jackson County. Presidet Young said I believe it. 

I attended the prayer meeting in the evening. O P. Rockwell & Dunbar arived about [ ] oclok. 

Reported that there would be 700 Head of Cattle in in 2 days. Nothing decisive yet in relation to 
the army. He said some of the Brethren were ventersome and in danger of looseing their lives. He 
said one deserter infonned him that the army were ownly fed on Quarter rations. The army are 
nearly starving to death. Orders were given to Hail once and then fire and in trying to carry out 
that order they shot an ox. They said Bridger & Mogo was in their Camp. 


Page7 1 




Oct 19th It is a Cold Morning. Snow upon the Mountains. 

It is reported that Mr Ray is vary sick & not expected to live. He is the last Gentile Merchant in 
the City now doing business. Mr Bell has sold out & will soon leave for Calafomia. Mr Kinkade 
is still traiding but will work for us. 

An express arived at 1 oclok P.M. Brought a letter to President Young from D H. Wells & one B 
to me from G. A. Smith. They inform us that Capt Lot Smith & his Company Came near being 
Caught in a trap by the Enemy in the following manner: 

About day break they Came near the Enemies camp & thought they saw a drove of mules a 
distance from the Camp. They made a Charge upon them to stampede them but as they rushed in 
among them they found they were mounted men & Could not stampede mounted draggoons. The 
Capt of the Company saluted and said Capt Smith you cannot see vary well good this morning. 
Capt Smith replied I Can see as well as you Can with your Blind Bridles on. 

They looked at each other awhile then Lot Smith troted off at a slow pace but the Enemy tried to 
surround them & they had to gallop over a vary rough place to get away. When they got about 30 
rods off from them they dismounted & took a dead rest & shot about 30 bullets at them. One ball 
passed through one mans Hat & another Ball grazed a horses leg. That was all the damage that 
was done. They might thank the Lord for the preservation of their lives. This is the first fireing 
done on Either side & this fireing was done by our Enemies, but no Blood shed unless it was 
Blood from a horses leg. 

We got through diging potatoes & drawing Com to day. 

20th I put my flax in water to rot this morning. 

At 12 oclok Col Burton with his Command of Draggoons or minute men arived in this City in 
good health & spirits. Presidet Heber C Kimball addressed them a short time And said By virtue 
of the Office which I hold I bless you all in the name of the Lord & if you will live your religion 
& do right you shall none of you fall by the Hand of an Enemy. But you shall eat peaches & 
Apples in this valley untill you go to Jackson county Missouri & your Enemies shall not Conquer 
you. Keep your guns & fire locks in good order & do not waste your aminition for Naught. It is 
not a day for much preaching but a day for hard service. This is not much that we have to meet 
with this fall but next year we must be prepared for work. 

Gen Grant followed with few words & told them whare to go for quarters. They went to the 
various places allotted them. 

I spent the day in the office. I spent the night or evening till 9 oclok at the Govomors Office. 
Brigham Young jr arived at 9 oclok. He rode down the Weber to Ogden from there to this City. 
He brought some Letters to the presidet & others. 


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I stoped at the Globe a short time in Conversation with Brother Clements who thinks that 
Allexander would surrender if he had an opportunity to do it in a way that He would not be 
censured by the Government. The army is in a Critical Situation & destruction seems to await 
them let them do what they will. 

Oct 21st Brother Atwood arived this morning with an express from Gen Wells & 2 letters from 
Col Allexander who Closed his letter by saying that "He should not obey the Govornors Orders 
& his final disposals of the troops would depend upon Grave Consideration which I do not deem 
necessary to enumerate" (words without meaning). 

The messenger said that the 5 Regment had stoped near Bear River in tents. The 10th Regment 
had moved back on hams fork 5 miles with all the teams & baggage. They were in the snow 
several inches deep. The Brethren travelled several miles with the army. The men were so weak 
& Cold they would wrap up in there coat & lie down in the snow to rest almost evry mile. 

We Cannot tell what the intentions of the Officers of the Anny are. Presidet Young thinks that 
Col Allexanders intention is to Come nearer our Camp so that his men may desert. Robert Burton 
said that it was 80 miles from Allexanders Command to the mouth of Echo Canyon. 

Presidet Young said Here are the officers around me. I will Call a Council of War. I think it is 
best for Gen Wells to Call in all his forces to Echo & there rest & not ride his Horses to death 
unnecessary but let the Enemy alone now & they will soon use themselves up. Keep a few to 
watch there movements & let them work & they will all soon be used up. 

Dr Hickman is with the 5th Regiment who are left & Allen & his Companies are with the 10th 
Regiment. Heber Kimball jr. sent Col Allexander a doz Onions & the Col said if he had any thing 
that Heber wanted He would send it to him. He asked Beaty why He tryed to stampede their 
animals and burn the grass. He said we bum the grass to get a better Crop next year. 

I spent most of the fore part of the day in reading the History of the death of Joseph & 

Comparing John Taylors account with it. 

Some 700 or 800 head of Cattle were drove in about 12 oclok accompanied by some teamsters & 
soldiers. They looked poor & hungry. I spent a short time with Presidet Young in the evening. 

22d I spent most of the day in ploughing. I gleaned 17 Bushels of potatoes on 1 1/2 acres after 
my men had dug the ground over. I spent the evening in the Historians office on Presidents 
Brigham Youngs History. 

23d I spent most of the day in the office on Brigham Youngs History. President Young received a 
letter from Gen Wells. Not much news. 

24th I called upon President Young a short time. Brother Kimball & Lyman & Lorenzo Snow 
was also in. A few remarks were made about the Armey. Broth Brigham said that He was 


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satisfied that we could live in this valley & raise Crops and keep our enemies out. It is not in their 
power to overthrow us. By the Help of God we can remain here & they Can not Conquer us. 

I have reflected this thing over in my mind to see what way I could Conquer this people if I was 
them And I Cannot see but one way & that way they will not attempt to take. The United States 
have spent three Millions of dollars this season to fit out an Armey to destroy us & it has done us 
no harm. But if I was going to attempt to destroy this people I should have let them have there 
post Office and made One Millions of Dollars of Appropriation & given them all they asked for 
then spent annother Million in Carrying in Gentiles & Merchandize & kept this up yearly untill I 
had filled the Country with Gentiles. But the Lord would not let them do this but I should know 
that I Could not Conquer them by fore & they will find it out. 

Presidet Young got a letter to day from Gen Wells who says the Enemy have returned back on 
Hams Fork some 15 miles. 

I had a company of men who were lying in Camp from Toelle City call & Husk out 110 Bushels 
of Ears of Corn for me. I gave them One 10th for husking. I spent most of the day on B. Youngs 
History. Broth J. V. Long Buried a Child to day 1 year 8 months & 1 1 days old which died on the 
23d. 

25th Sunday I attended the meeting in the Tabernacle. John Young preached in the Morning 
followed by Lorenzo Young & Brigham Young. We had a good meeting. The Lord is 
manifesting great wisdom through President Brigham Young as a Prophet & leader in Israel. He 
correts the Errors of all his brethren in such a way it is Clearly manifest in the Eyes of all the 
people. I attended the prayer Circle in the evening. At 4 oclok Gen D H. Wells & Elders John 
Taylor & G A. Smith arived from the Head quarters of the Anny met in Council with us & spent 
some time in conversing upon the subjet of the war. 

President Young said I mean to send word to the United States that if they have sent troops here 
the Cattle which we have taken I will give them Credit for upon Compound interest but I do not 
know that they have sent any. They have not notifyed me Officially any thing about it & I have 
no right to know any thing about it but shall treat them as a mob. 

26th Brother Peter W Conover & Oliver Smith arived in this City this morning & Called at 
Presidents Youngs Office & brought the news from Our Carson valley Company. They gave a 
Rehearsal of all their travels to carson Valley & Calafomia & back again which was Highly 
interesting. The Company of the Carson valley saints & those from Calafornia & Oregon were on 
the way to this City. They had 160 fighting men with 2,700 lbs of Ammunition belonging to the 
Church & a great deal with private individuals & a large amount of Arms. All the Saints are 
Coming from Carson Valley. They left ownly 2 Boxes of Caps & 1 lb of powder in all Carson 
Valley. They sold all their arms & ammunition to the Brethren for their places. 

President Young also received a letter from Gen Grant. The Army were still on hams Fork not 
desided which route they would yet take. They had got the Chief waggon Master in Custidy. 


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The presidency and Twelve were in Conversation all the forenoon at his office upon the subjet of 
the war. Presidet Young said That the United States Government was looseing their National 
greatness & wisdom is departed from them and we need not have as much fear of them as we 
would of an Armey of Grasshoppers. If they take away our Charter from us & divide up our 
Territory it will be unconstitutional as evry thing is they do against us. I told Brother Bernhisel 
that if they took away our Charters to Come immediately home as soon as He Could & we would 
Organize our State Government & fall back upon our Original Boundaries. Our East Boundary 
should be at Laramie the west the summit of the Siera Nevada & run to the pacific Ocean & c & 
we would defend it. John Taylor who sat in the Judgment seat Said that was our legal Lawful & 
Legitimate right. 

Presidet Young said I want Sanbemadeno & Carson valley to remain & not be disturbed for I 
want the people there to raise stock to supply us from time to time as we need. 

The U.S. may do as they please. We will do as the Lord wants us. One young officer of the Anny 
said that Old Jesus Christ Could not keep him out of salt Lake City But they will find out who 
rules on Earth & in heaven. Another Officer said the United States would wipe us out another 
year should they send an Anny of 20,000 men it would take more than 20 miles for their anney 
& train to move at all and the more there is off them the worse off they will be. 

Mr Kay Called upon President Young and wished him to buy his goods. He told him his goods 
were a poor lot in Camparison to Mr Bells yet if [Br?] Hooper would buy him out He would back 
him up. President Young also told Mr Kay that He would give him a little Council if He would 
take it. He told him to stop taking opium and Alchohol and stop your fears and hold up your head 
and be Cheerful. 

"Mr Kay I will now tel you the truth. The Gentile Merchants with yourself have been the means 
of Bringing on this present war. You have been selling my Blood & the Blood of my Brethren for 
Gold. This I shall not put up with it any longer. I shall not permit any Gentile merchant to do 
business in [the] territory after this year in the way they have. We have been kind to them & I 
have been their friend & our people have paid them promptly & they should have been our 
friends & told the truth about us but they have not realized what they were doing. Many other 
remarks were made. 

Brother Taylor said will not the anney go into winter Quarters & entrench themselves & remain 
untill they get help from the states? 

President Young said if an anny comes to help them in the spring we will use up this army first 
& then we will use up the others before they get to the South Pass. In the spring we must ask 
Allexander what He intends to do. Inform him He must not stay there untill He gets 
reinforcements in the spring and if they will not leave in the spring we will use them up first the 
best we Can. In 10 days we can put 2,000 men around them which would soon use them up. I do 
not believe that they will have 500 fighting men in the spring. They are in a vary Critical 


Page75 




situation. They say they have no other way to get a living for their families but to war. I think it is 
better to let the Army alone this winter. They will die many of them and others desert & many be 
weakened with the scurvey & in the spring we will wipe them out if necessary if they do not go 
away. 

We do all of our Business in the name of Israel God and they in their own way. The whole matter 
can be sumed up in these few words. We are here at home by our own Fireside while they are a 
great way from home. I intend to send those teamsters to the south whare they Cannot get Back 
to the Armey. 

I spent most of the day in the office & with the Presidency. 

27th I spent most of the day in the office. In the Afternoon G. A. Smith A Lyman & myself spent 
an hour in conversing abut the war. Broth G. A. Smith said He believed their Artillery Could be 
taken with but little loss by rushing in the night into ther Encampment & about 20 men to each 
peace. Put on Larrietts onto the tongue & draw it off on horse back upon a gallop all being 
mounted on good Horses & before the enemy were prepared for defence ther cannon would be 
leaving them. 

I have sown 1 5 Acres of wheat. My boys finished Harvesting this day. 

28th President Heber C Kimball Called upon us at the Historians Office at 1 1 oclok & Read His 
History till 12 oclock. Then Presidents Young & Wells A Lyman & L Snow came in & all 
Conversed upon the war till 2 oclok. We had an express in from Box Elder with a report that 
soulders were at Fort Hall also one from the East saying that the Enemy had not moved for 
several days but were waiting for Col Johnson to Come up with 4 companies of Cavalry & 2 
companies of infantry. This is [the] report. It was decided in Council that General Wells John 
Taylor & Charles C Rich return to the Seat of war & take Charge of the Command. 

The following is a synopsis of the conversation: 

President Young said if any officer Comes to the Armey the Govomor or Judges & send word 
that they want to Come in Just inform them that they are as near as they can Come. Had they 
have Come without a military aray they could have come & not been molested but now they 
cannot Come. We will not have any Cursed scoundrel forced upon us to Judge or rule over us 
and they shall not Come among us. 

If Johnson Comes with troops & intends to Come in I expet they will leave their baggage Battery 
& a company to guard it and come in on a forced march without it. Then we must not let them 
sleep but use them up as soon as we Can. Work night and day & not let them sleep. Brother 
Wells thinks they are determined to try to Come in. I have sent word that if General Hamey is on 
the way to get into Camp & kill him if Possible and take the Animals from Johnson if Possible & 
take Charge of the Goods train. 

Presidet Young said I am glad of one thing ie this thing will be Just as the Lord wants it. If He 


Page76 




wants them to Come & get killed it will be so. If He wants them to go north South or East He 
will have it Just as He wants and this I am thankful for and I feel perfectly easy about it all. You 
will find when the Lord sees that we are willing to fight & get Just ready to shoot that He will 
fight our battles. 

He said G. A Smith may stop in the City this time. Let C C Rich go. He is a good General & a 
wise man in Calculation. I recon a good deal upon him in the future. 

Mrs Mogo was sent to the Camp & Jones their waggon Master today they have also sent back the 
waggon Master which they took prisioner. They are sending in several Teamsters, deserters, & 
one prisioner. 

I spent the evening in the Office. 

29th I spent a short time in the Govomors office. Gen D H Wells left to day to again take 
Command of the Expedition in the mountains & the company of Cavalry Commanded by Heber 
Kimball also went out. I spent most of the time in the Office through the day & evening. 

30th I spent the day in the office & evening President Kimball came in and we read his History 
for about one hour. Then President Brigham Young Came in & we read his history till dark. 

3 1st I spent the fore part of the day grinding sugar Cane. I got 30 gallons of Juce from a small 
wagon Box of cane. The afternoon I spent in the office. 

November 

Nov 1st Sunday I attended the meeting at the Tabernacle. O Hyde delivered a written discourse. 
Was followed by G A Smith. In the Afternoon John Taylor Preached. Took his tex from the 2d 
Epistle of the Apostle Brigham to Col Allexander the following words "With us it is the kingdom 
of God or Nothing. The discourses of the day were vary Edefying & interesting. I attended prayer 
Circle in the evening. Then Preached in the 14th ward school House. 

2d I spent most of the day at home preparing to make Beet molasses. I spent a short time in the 
Office in the Afternoon. The Calafornia Mail arived at 10 oclok. 

3d I spent most of the day in the Endowment House a short time in the office. It rained in the 
evening & nearly all night. An express arived in the evening [..]. 

Joseph Young Broat a letter to Gov Young from Col Allexander, saying He thanked him for 
sending him his prisioners and He should send Back his prisioners ownly he had a Civil process 
against them. "Probably wants to hang them for treason." It is rumoured that Col Johnson has 
arived in their Camp with several hundred men. 

Several Calafornia prisioners were taken to day & brought into this City. They are supposed to be 
robers from the mountains. The Carson valley Company arived to day. 


Page77 




Nov 4th I spent most of the day in the office. It rained all day & night. 

5th It rained all day and night. I spent the fore noon at home & the afternoon in the office. Their 
is about 2 feet of snow at Echo Canyon. No express to day from the seat of war. General D H 
Wells is in command. He had a Child died last night at 9 oclok named Lona about 14 months old. 
Wilford Woodruff Jr Received a letter from Robert Scholes which I answered to day for him. 

6th It was a hard Rainy Day & night in the valley and great Depth of snow in the mountains. I 
was in the cold & rain most of the day & was quite unwell at night. 

7th Several of the Brethren came in from the mountains with some 150 Head of cattle & some 40 
mules & Horses & several prisioners & deserters from the Enemy. It is cold to day but mostly 
Clear. I am quite unwell. 

8th Sunday I was unwell. I did not attend meeting. I attend a prayer Meeting in the evening. 

\ President Brigham Young related the circumstances of their seeing a Circle of about 40 persons 
dressed in white robes & caps in the upper Story of the Temple in kirtland during the spring of 
1835 after the Endowments. Their was no person in that room at the time that was mortal yet the 
room was filled with light & many personages did appear Clothed in white & freequently went to 
the windows and looked out So that the Brethren in the street Could see them plainly. Brother 
Young & Truman Angel stood to gether in the street & looked at them a long time. W W Phelps 
says he saw them for 3 hours. They were visable by all the Brethren Present. Brother Angel said 
they must have stood some 2 feet from the floor if they were ownly the size of common men they 
Could not have been seen from the place whare they stood except it should be the head & those 
personages appeared nearly down to the waist as they looked out of the window with a front 
view. See if this is named in the History. 

9th I arose this morning and found the Earth covered with snow. I also found that the City had 
been alive with soldiers since mid night preparing to go into the mountains to meet with our 
Enemies. An express arived during the night saying that the Cavalry was advanceing upon 
Bridger under a gallop and the picket guard had to run their Horses to get out of the way. 

Col Johnson Arived in Camp of the main Armey. He said to Maj Allen whom they held a 
prisioner "God damn you when I get to Bridger I will hang you." Maj Allen thinking there was 
not much Chance for his life & prefered shooting to Hanging during the same evening being 
Closely guarded by 24 men He pulled off his Boots & walked up to a fire to warm his toes. 

While steping around to wann his feet He made a spring & cleared himself from the guard. He 
run into the midst of a heard of Cattle so they Could not shoot him. Horsmen immediately started 
in persuit of him but in the darkness of the night they Could not over take him. He run in his 
stocking feet in the snow for 30 miles Carrying his Boots in his hand not dareing to stop to put 
them on & arived in our Camps in safety. 

Our men took 100 head of Cattle one night & 300 head another which were now coming in. 


Page78 




I spent the forenoon in the Governor office hearing the news. I read the Last Monnon Dated Sept 
18th & the New York Herrald Sept 14th which Contained Gov Youngs Speech declairing our 
intentions to oppose the army. There was quite an excitement upon Mormon Affairs. The Herrald 
is vary Bitter against us. 

10th It snowed all day & was Cold. 1,300 men are ordered into the mountains in addition to those 
already there Col Phileman C Merrill Commanding. The Davis County troops past the governor 
office for the mountains with 242 men 56 of which were mounted 17 offercers of the line & 4 of 
the col staff. They had 23 Baggage waggons. After stoping a short time in front of the Gov office 
they Continued their march towards the mountains of snow as near 2,000 of their Brethren had 
done before to meet the Enemy. Many went with wet feet poor shoes & straw hats on without 
tents or fire at night as they Could not reach timber untill next day. Yet it shoes the willingness 
the saints have to maintain the kingdom of God & defend themselves against our Enemies. It was 
a cold night. 

1 1th It is a cold morning. The whole mountains Hills & vallies were covered with snow. It is 
reported that their is 8 feet of snow on the top of the Big mountain through which our Brethren 
have to travel. I spent the fore part of the day in triming & covering my Grape vines to save them 
from the frost. The afternoon I spent in the presidet office /with/ H. C. Kimball & G A. Smith in 
reading Br Kimball History. 

At 7 oclok Dr Hickman arived in this city. Had been a prisioner in the Enemys Camp for a long 
time but they let him go. He thinks col Johnson will try to Come in. They talk of Breaking up 
into small companies & trying to Come in in various ways. I was in the Governors office and 
heard him talk a short time. 

12th I spent most of the day and night making Beet molasses. I spent the Evening at home. 

13 th I spent the fore part of the day at home & the after noon in the office on Presidets Youngs 
History. 

141 spent the day & night making Beet Molasses. We made 24 gallons during the day & night 
which closed up our molasses making for this year. We made 110 gallans of Beet Molasses & 15 
gallons of Chinees sugar cane Molasses. 

Nov 15th 1857 Sunday I was not well through the day & did not attend meeting. I attended the 
Prayer Meeting in the evening. At the close I walked to Brother Smoots. Prayed for Wm. Smoots 
Child who had fallen out of a Chair onto the stove & burned his face vary bad. I laid hands upon 
his Mother who was also sick & blessed her. 

16th I spent the day in the office. I had 150 bushels of Beets. I paid 15 bushels of tithing to day. 
We made 105 gallons of Molasses out of the rest. There was an express Came in to day. D H 
Wells sent a letter to Presidet B Young but nothing vary important. The Enemy were still on 
Hams fork. 


Page79 




17th I spent the day in the Office on Presidets Youngs History. I dreamed at night that Dr J M. 
Bernhisel arived suddenly in our midst vary much excited. He said that all the Indians on the 
western borders were going to war with the whites & the government was going to try to make a 
treaty with all the Indians & mormons & settle the difficulties in an amicable way. 

18th I spent the day in the Office with G A. Smith & Presidet Young & H C Kimball reading 
their History. We read Brother Youngs History till 3 oclok & Brother Kimballs till 5 oclok \ I 
dreamed at night that our Enemies Came suddenly upon us quite unexpectedly. Women & 
Children were running before them. I was with a pair of Mules in the waggon & trying to get 
away with them as I awoke. 

19th As I arived at the office this morning I related my dream to G A Smith & J. C. Little when 
Brother G. A. Smith said He had the same dream himself & related it to his wife when he awoke. 
I spent the day in the Office on B. Young History. 

G A Smith furnished us with a supper at the Globe. The Clerks of the Historians Office & 
Brothers Clawson Cain & Calder were also present. We discussed the welfare of the Nation till 
about midnight. 

20th Brother G. D. Grant Joseph Young & others Came in this morning from the seat of war. 
Stated that the troops were at Bridger & did not know whether they would winter there or not. I 
spent the afternoon in the office. Brother John Heath Broack his leg on the 15th instant. Was 
brought into this City on the 19th & was Carried into A. P. Rockwood House & spent the night. 
This morning Thomas Grover his Father in Law came with a waggon & took him home. 

2 1st I spent the day in the Office on Presidents History. 

22d Sunday I attended meeting at the tabernacle. A Carrington G. D. Grant & H C Kimball spoke 
in the after noon. A [— ]. President Young spoke. He said this People would do their duty would 
live their religion & would Conquer their Enemies & overcome. 

An express Came in saying that it was supposed that Capt Cook had arived with his 300 Cavalry 
& it was supposed that they would try to Come in. Some 75 yoke of Cattle were Called for to 
Carry out the provisions to the mountains to the Armey. 

I attended prayer Circle. I opened with prayer. G. A. Smith was mouth in the Circle. Presidet 
Young said that He thought of sending word to Gen Wells to let the Enemy Come in to Echo 
Canyon before they were disturbed. 

23d A Cold Fog over the Earth. I spent the day in the office. [] } I received a letter from Robert 
Scholes & wrote him one in return & sent him 2 Bags of Corn for the ponies. 

I had put into a tight binn some 130 bushels of Ears of Com. It not having air began to mould. 
This evening I took it out of my Granary & carried it in one of the Chambers of my house. 


Page80 




24th This is the 4th day that we have had a Cold dark Fog hanging over our City. I spent the day 
in the Office on B Youngs History. 

25th The fog Still hangs over our City. I spent the day in the Office on History. 

26th £ In Company with G. A. Smith I called upon President Brigham Young and asked Council 
about publishing the Endowments or an outline of it telling the time when the Twelve Received 
their 2d Anointing & also the organization of the Council of 50. He gave his Concent for us to 
publish an account of it so that the Saints might understand it <but not the world>. He gave into 
our hands all the records of the council of 50 and all of his own private Letters Notes, Receipt, 
Pocket Books, &c which I took to the Historians Office & spent the day and Evening in 
examining & Hieing. All that was not for Historical purposes I done up carefully on file to return 
to him. 

While with President Young Ben Simons a Cherikee Called into President Youngs office. Had 
been two days in the Camp of the Enemy. He related his travels there. Said they wanted salt vary 
much. Their Animals were dying vary Fast. They were Cutting timber & diging holes in the 
Earth. That looks a little like their going into winter Quarters. The Merchants were Suffering for 
the want of food. They ought to suffer for they have been the means of Bringing on this war in a 
great measure. 

27th A Rainy day. I Called upon the Presidet with G A Smith. I returned to President Young all 
his Note Bills Recepts & Private Letters which He gave me yesterday. He sent a load of Salt out 
to Col Johnson & the Anney. Presidet Young sent a letter to Col Johnson which He read to us 
which was Certainly rich & interesting. 

Nov 28 A stormy day . The fog & storm has Cleared away all the mountains and Hills are 
Covered with snow. I spent the Fore part of the day at home the Afternoon in the office On 
History. 

Brother Simons arived in this City last night with an express saying that Gov Cummings & Lieut. 
Col Philip, St. George, Cook, 2d Dragoons, the Ex Commander of the Mormon Battallion in 
mexico has arived in the Enemy Camp with other officers on Saturday & Sunday last with about 
300 dragoons. They had Canvassed over the walls of Fort Bridger & the Carall for stoorage but 
their operations look like a temperary work & not like winter Quarters for the whole Armey. It is 
still thought that they may attempt to Come in. 

29th Sunday Early in the morning G. A. Smith & myself was Called upon to go to the Governors 
office as an expressed had arived from the Enemy. When we arived at the office we found 
Brother Young & Carrington at the office. Soon Brother Heber C Kimball A O Smoot Lorenzo 
Young & others came & Brother Carrington read a Proclamation from A Gumming. Called 
himself Govornor of Utah & said that the President Appointed him Govomor of Utah but did not 
say what Presidet appointed him whether it was Presidet Young or Buchannan. He Commands all 


Page81 




armed people to dispersed to their Homes & said all that opposed them would be treated as 
traitors. 

He also wrote a Letter to Governor Young accusing him of treason & said that He should 
Esstablish his quarters in Green river County & organize a temporary Government that all will be 
tried for treason that oppose them. 

We went to the Tabernacle & G A Smith Preached followed By Erastus Snow. Then Brother 
Carrington read the Proclamation & the letter to Governor Young from A. Cummings. In the 
Afternoon President B. Young and H. C. Kimball spoke. President Young spoke upon the subject 
of our disiplineing our minds & bringing them into subjection to our own will & the law of God 
& our union in Prayer. His subject was vary interesting. 

I attended the prayer Circle in the Evening then Preached in the 12th ward with Bishop Hardy. 
Nearly evry member of my family went to the 14 ward meeting in the evening. 

GAS goes to Provo. Starts at 1 oclok. 

30 A Cold snowy day. I spent the time in the office. 

December 

Dec 1st 1857 Tuesday I spent the day in the office. President Kimball Called into the Office & 
we read some of his history to him. He made some alteration in it. 

2d The troops began to arive early this morning from the Mountains Having been dismissed by 
Gen Wells. Maj Snow command of Horse arived at 7 oclok. A part of Col Ross command arived 
at 4 oclok PM. & Maj Rowberrys Command arived at 6 oclok & they continued to pour into the 
City till a late Hour. 

Brother Groove and Southworth who had been kept prisioners for some two weeks in the 
Enemies Camp arived home to day. Brother Grove Called upon Presidet Young and related what 
He knew in the Enemies Camp. I had a Conversation with Brother Southworth Concerning his 
imprisionment and He said that He was taken prisioner on Green River by an Officer in Capt 
Cooks Horse Company & put under Guard with orders for the guard to shoot him if He got 5 
paces from him. He travelled under guard in this way untill He got to the main Encampment. He 
was then put with the main prisioners of the Camp & guarded with the m[ess?]. He came up with 
Howard Livingston. He wished Mr Livingston to intercede with Col Johnston to let him go home 
to his family as they had nothing against him ownly that He was a Mormon. But Mr Livingston 
would do nothing for him. 

He reports that their is much of the spirit of Desertion in the camp. The Officers treat their 
soldiers in a Cruel manner. Capt Cook is Considered a Cruel Tyrant & several of his soldiers said 
they would kill him if they had a Chance. Several soldiers talked with Southworth & said they 
would desert if they Could. 


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He said the greatest amount of any one article in Camp was ardent spirits. He thought there were 
100 waggon loads. Howard Livingston had an outfit of Liquor which Cost him ten thousand 
dollars worth at first cost, and that all the Armey had a great amount as well as all the Suttler's. 
The officers were drunk evry day. 

He said their was but 2 Companies at Bridger guarding that place & thought 100 men Could go 
in the night & take all their was in that Fort. They were 5 days moving their train 6 miles. They 
had not animals enough to move one third of their train at the same time and they lost 60 of their 
best mules while moving that distance. 

He says their is a division of officers as well as the soldiers. A portion of them think that 
Govornor Young is Justified in taking the Course He does in his own Defence. He said Col 
Allexander was an old Granny the Govomor Cummings was a whiskey tub in appearance about 
such a man as Brother Blazzard would be if He drank a quart of whiskey per day. 

Their Animals are dying so fast that they all expect to be on foot before next spring. They have 
sent capt Marcy to Taos to buy mules Horses & oxen. The expedition is entirely Closed this 
season and made an Entire faleure of it as far as they are Concerned. 

Reflections 

We Can now clearly see the Hand of God made visably bear in our behalf Concerning the 
Campaign of our Enemies against us this season past. The American Government with James 
Bucannan at their head as president, have sent forth An Armey of 2,500 men fully armed and 
Equipt for war for the sole purpose of destroying the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints 
& the Kingdom of God from off the Earth. This Church and kingdom of God has been driven 
from the midst of the people in the United States into the vallies of the Rocky Mountains a 
thousand miles from the Confines of what is Called Gentile Civilization whare they were in 
hopes we would perish. But as soon as they found that we would live & prosper they became 
alanned & were resolved upon our destruction and Hence they send their armies out to 
accomplish their Hellish purpose. 

As soon as it was known unto us Presidet Brigham Young the prophet Seer and Revelator & 
leader of the Church and kingdom of God Rose up in the strength of Israel God and proclaimed 
Israel Free and said they should be Free from that hour if they would obey his Council & follow 
his precept. His Councillors Heber C Kimball & Daniel H Wells and also the Quorum of the 
Twelve Apostles backed up his Testimony & sustained him in his decissions And all the people 
said Amen. So let it be. 

Presidet Young testified unto the people in the name of God if they would be United with him in 
their faith prayers & works that the Enemy Should not have power to come into our valley that 
the Lord would hedge up their way & we should not be Called to shed their Blood neither should 
they have power to shed ours. This principle president Young has taught from day to day when 


Page83 




their was evry prospet that the enemy would try to Come. 

From two to three thousand of the servants of God armed themselves & went into the mountains 
according to the Council of Presidet Young & they were lead by the valient & Noble General 
Daniel H Wells to Hedge up the way of the Enemy should they attempt to Come in. They formed 
large Entrenchments & ditches & pilled up large masses of Rocks in narrow passes so as to roll 
them down upon the Enemy & destroy them should they attempt to Come in. 

But as the Prophets Brigham & Heber had said so it came to pass. The Lord fought our Battles & 
hedged up the way of our Enemies. When they Got on Hams Fork 150 miles from our City the 
storms & cold killed their Horses, Mules, & Cattle by Hundreds so that when the whole anney 
got together with the Govornor & Judges who had been sent by the Government to rule & 
tyranize over us they had not got team enough left alive to draw one third of their trains. So they 
are obliege to stop & spend the winter in the storms of the mountains & their wisdom is taken 
away so that they are not Capable of writing a letter or Document in a proper manner and this the 
Lord has done in answer to the prayers of his Saints. And our brethren have been enabled to 
Heard them like a herd of Cattle & they have shot grape musket & minnie balls at them from 
time to time & those Balls have flown like hail around the servants of God & not a drop of Blood 
shed neither have the Brethren returned the fire upon the Enemy in no instance. Fear has so 
rested upon the Enemy that they would flee into their main body at the approach of a small 
number of our Brethren & thus has the Lord Frustrated the Enemy in all their designs against us 
up to this day. 

And through this whole sceneery of alarm of war & the approach of the Enemy Presidet Young 
has been as Calm & serene as a Mays summers morning and all the time has said victory would 
be hours & that Blood would not be shed & he has diffused /this same spirit/ throughout the 
whole Church & kingdom of God esstablished in these mountains & all the annies of Zion have 
gone out to war as calm & Composed as though they were going into the field to their daily 
labour & now the Armies are returning out of the mountains of Snow to their homes with the 
same spirit of composure & quietude as they went out thanking God that the words of the 
prophets have been fullfilled in their behalf & as they pass by the Habitation of Presidet Young 
they give him a quiet salute & pass on in silence to their homes while He gazes upon the passing 
Army of Zion with a Heart filled to overflowing with thanksgiving & praise to the God of Israel 
who had fulfilled his words which he had been inspired by the Holy Ghost to utter unto his 
brethren & was also thankful that He was surrounded with Brethren who were servants of God & 
were united to gether in faith & love to Carry out his instruction & thereby Came the protection 
& Blessings of Almighty God upon them. 

As he walks through the City under the sable shades of night he beholds & feels the diferent 
between the Army of Zion & the Camp of the wicked. Hundreds of men who have Just returned 
from the Anney of Israel in the mountains arive in the City in the night, Camp by the road side, 
have been two months in the mountains of Cold & snow not a murmer is heard to escape their 
lips, or the sound of Blasphemy, or oath, or filthy language, or Contention One with an other. No 


Page84 




one reeling under strong drink but kindness quietude & Joy fdles evry heart & the spirit of God 
fills evry bosom. The Contrast is vary great when Compared with the Gentile armies & Cities. 

After I returned to my house and about to return to rest I heard a nock at my door. I Bid the 
visiter Come in when Brother Robert Scholes appeared my hiered man. He had been in the 
mountains two months with my Horses in the Anney. He started at midnight the night before & 
had traveled all the latter part of the night & through the day. Many of the men had given out & 
the horses had to draw a heavy load of them. 

3d This is Fast day. I attended meeting at the 14 ward school house a part of the day & spoak to 
the people a short time. I told them the Lord had fulfilled the words of President Brigham Young 
by stoping our enemies & not giving them power to Come in without our sheding their Blood or 
they sheding ours. The Lord had fought our Battles &c. I spent the evening in the office. 

Dec 4th 1857 The Calafornia Mail arived last evening. We find from the Calafomia papers that 
the massacre of the Emigrants in the south by the Indians is laid to the mormons. The people in 
Lost Angel held public meeting & passed Resolutions to call on the Presidet of the United States 
to exhert his power to bring the murderers to Justice. 

All the saints in Calafomia are returning home. Brother Cannon got out a half sheet of the 
Standard. Their is quite a stir concerning Mormonism. One of the Pannama steemers went down 
at sea with $2,000,000 of boilers worth of gold & 460 passengers. 160 was taken off & saved 
mostly women & Children. Their also seems to be an indian war at Carson valley with the 
Indians. 

5th I spent the day in the office on Presidents Youngs History. Presidet D. H. Wells arived home 
about 8 oclok. 

\ [] 6th Sunday I attended meeting at the Tabernacle. Elder John Taylor spoke in the Morning 
followed By President D. H. Wells. In the afternoon I spoke & was Followed By Professor Albert 
Carrington. Reporters took notes. 

I Attended a meeting of the prayer Circle. John Taylor opened by Prayer & D H Wells was mouth 
in the Circle. 

Brother Wells said that Brother Maxfield had the Command of a small scouting party. They took 
a horse from the Enemy & was fired at by the Enemy, but no one hurt. They went back to their 
encampment. Brother Maxfield had an impression that their was Danger in their path and ought 
to leave their Camp. He told his Brethren so but some of them did not think so & all went to Bed. 
But these feelings increasing upon Brother Maxfield He arose from his bed & told his Brethren 
He was agoing to leave that place immediately & they all gathered up their Horses and went 
several Miles Back & Camped for the night & soon the Encampment which they had Just left 
was surrounded by a Hundred men & had it not been for their warning they would probably have 
been all taken prisioners. 


Page85 




President Young said Concerning the Enemy I know they will begin to waste away before spring 
and I think they will get orders to return back. If they attempt to come in Col Johnson will ride 
the best Horse He Can get & will say to Col Allexander & Cook & the other Officers now you go 
ahead. Now you had better all get killed than to loose your next president thinking that He would 
stand a Chance to be President. 

I accompanied Brother Woolley to his ward & preached to a large Congregation. Was followed 
by D Spencer & E Snow. I spoke upon the kingdom of God now esstablished, & its finally 
distiny. D Spencer spoke of our Educating our Children & E Snow of Family Government. Said 
some men would deal honorably with Brigham Young & cheat their nearest Neighbor. A woman 
would try to gain the Effections of her husband but would pull down some member of her family. 
My Family attended meeting at the 14 ward school House. 

7th I spent the day in the office on History. Phineas Young called in & read a part of his history. 

8th I spent the day in the office the forenoon in examining the Record of the Council of 50. The 
afternoon we read Brother Kimball History to him. He made Considerable alteration in it. I spent 
the Evening in the office. 

9th I spent most of the day in in the office. I Called in the President Youngs Office. All the 
Presidency were there & others. While there report Came in that Ben Simons had been buying 
several head of Horses to take to the Anney. It was also reported that He had loaded 8 Horses 
which he had bought of the Brethren & started for the Enemies Camp. This looks vary strange to 
see Brethren sell their Best Animals to go to the Enemy when they were trying to destroy us. This 
is Certainly amoung the misteries. 

I spent the evening in the Office looking over my Corresspondence Letters with the Presidency 
Twelve & my Fathers Family esspecially the Letters of Asahel H Woodruff. 

10th Presidents Young & Kimball Called into the office a short time. I was out. I Called at 1 1 
oclok & spent the remainder of the day in the Office on History. 

1 1th I spent most of the day in the office. I Corrected a sennon for publication. Read History 
Proof and C. I saw Brother Holebrook In the evening. He said two men had been killed in the 
South by the Indians and that Bell and his Company had hard work to get along among them. 

Elder G. A. Smith arived in the Evening. Called upon the president. Then Called upon me a short 
time in Company with [Brother Wall] who has Just returned from a Mission in Australia. 

Brought a company of Saints with him to Calafornia. He there met Dr Andrews and other 
Apostate mormons and they gathered a mob and tried to kill him But He boldly maintained his 
ground & got away from them, and Came on with the mail and his Company is Coming on 
Behind. 

12th I spent the day in the Office on History. 


Page86 




13th Sunday I attended meeting in the Tabernacle. H. C. Kimball Preached upon the tree & the 
vine. President Daniel Spencer spoke a short time before him in opening the meeting. In the 
afternoon Lorenzo Young & William Wall spoke. Brother Wall gave an account of his return 
from Australia Dr Andrews & other trying to Hand him in Los Angeles &c. I attended the prayer 
meeting in the circle. O Hyde opened by Prayer. Erastus Snow was mouth. 

14th j_ \ The Legislature of the Territory of Utah met at the social Hall at 10 oclok. Both Houses 
met & organized in about 30 minutes we adjourned till tomorrow. 

15 Both Houses met in Joint session. Govornor Young appeared 12 minuts to 1 1 oclok made a 
few remarks then Presented his Message to the Assembly which was read By the Chief Clerk of 
the House James Furguson. It was the most sublime august document that I ever heard. 

Dec 16 Council met at 10 oclok But little business done. Speeches made by G A Smith upon 
Military affairs and trade agricultural & manufacturing. We adjourned till next monday. 

Ben Simons arived in the City and called upon Presidet Young with D Huntington. He Said there 
was two or three Classes of men now in the Anney. One party was the military and the other was 
Called Freemen. There was a Fight between them and 7 men killed. Col Johnson sent the malicia 
to quell the mob & Gov Cumings told them to go back that when he wanted his assistance he 
would Call for it. 

The superintendent of Indian affairs said he had got a million of Gold to give the Indians of this 
Territory. 

One man gathered up 1 Bag of Salt that our men flung away which was sent by the Govomor but 
rejected by Col Johnson. The man sold it to the merchants for $20 and they sold it to the soldiers 
for 2 or 3 dollars per lb. Ben Simons took out 900 lbs of salt & sold it for $2.50 cts per lb making 
$2,250 and $1 per lbs for service buries. Ben Simons offered to give to President Young one half 
of the money He made. Presidet Young told him He did not want any of his money. He had 
Enough of his own. But as he wanted to make some He let him have the privilege. 

Livingston said He would give $500 for the privilege of Coming into the City if he did not stop 
but One day. MCGraw is the worst man in the Armey and has the most to say against us. There 
was 500 men who had left for the states several of which had frooze to death. John Bigler a great 
Gambler took out of the Armey in [ ] day by gambling $25,000 and Carried it off in a 

Buckskin sack. 

Ben Simons wanted to Continued the trade & have another Cherekee to have a pass to go with 
him. Presidet Young asked him if he had not made money enough. He said he wanted to make all 
he Could. President Young told him that He must not take the Enemy any thing to Eat. He might 
sell them salt and Fir but nothing to Eat. 

They said there was potatoes & turnips at Fort Supply a plenty but Governor Cummings would 


Page87 




not let them have it. Presidet Young said He felt some of the time like giving them Hell. If they 
had power they would make this City a perfect Bedlam and corrupt this people as far as they 
Could. 


{= = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = 
Lines Written to Miss E. R. Snow 


=========================} 

Eliza had I the talent of a poet, or the gifts which thou Hast I would write to Thee and spread my 
thoughts on paper. But like Anthony I am a plain blunt man. What I have to say I speak right on 
without any regard to the Poets measure or rhyme, or law, or order; Thou hast spread thy 
thoughts on Paper for men to read: I have read them many an hour. They have stired my soul 
with thoughts, deep thoughts, thoughts which Could not be bom. Thy soul hath been inspired 
with the spirit of God, and Eternal light and truth and Noble sentiment and God has given thee 
gifts to utter them. Thy lamp hath been lit at Gods Holy altar whare the Oil was pure and the 
spirit free so thou couldst weigh Eternal truth and tell it unto men. 

Why hath this talent this Choice gift been given unto thee Eliza? Ah the spirit whispers it was to 
Cheer the heart of A Prophet A Patriarch, An Apostle in the dark hours of Gloom. It was to give 
the Lords Anointed a ray of light and a Consoleing thought while Hells dark Billows rolled 
around in the midst of wicked men and Devils who Continually cry out and say that no kingdom 
on the Earth shall belong to God. 

It was to tell the assassins of Missouri and Illinois in streams of Living fire that the Judgments of 
God awaited their guilty souls and that there Judgment had begun. It was to tell the wicked 
Nation who now Pollute the sacred soil of Joseph that when their Cup was full they would find a 
grave there to remain untill Called to Judgment by the trump of God. 

Hast thou not been faithful in thy mission to Earth? Yes the spirit whispers Yes. Many an hour 
has Joseph spent in gloom and sorrow because of Fals Brethren and wicked men. Even the hearts 
of the saints were so barred by fals tradition that He Could not unbosom his soul in the House of 
his Friends. This Caused him pain. Then thou dist Comfort him. Thy frendly thoughts and acts 
and words inspired by Gods Eternal truth was like a flaming shaft. Though launch by a female 
hand, that hand was nerved by faith and power that it pierced the walls of Darkness fear and 
death and gave the Prophet Joy. 

But who can tell the best deeds of a true friend in time of need? No one. They are not told in 
time, but like gold in the mine are Concealed from human view. If known at all the Judgment 
must reveal them. Thou hast been a true Friend and Comforted the Heart of Joseph, Hiram, 
Brigham, Heber, Willard, Jedediah, Thy Brother Lorenzo and thousands of the saints. I need not 
name them. Thy words and testimony will live and speak in flames of Holy fire to inspire the 
Hearts of Prophets Apostles and Holy men of God to noble Deeds, and steel the nerve of many a 


Page88 




Noble Son of Zion to avenge the Blood of the Prophets and martyrs of Jesus Christ, long after 
thou art with thy Father in heaven Clothed with Immortality and Crowned with Light. 

Thy Pen hath pierced many a wicked heart with barbed darts which no Earthly power Could 
remove. Thou hast freely told the wicked their doom and warned them of approaching Judgment. 
Thy garment are Clear of the Blood of all men. Thy testimony will remain on histories page and 
be numbered among the prophets of God as one of the noble spirits whom God has sent through 
the Loins of Abraham and Joseph to fulfill a Noble mission upon the Earth in the last 
dispensation and fulness of times. 

God Bless Thee Noble Muse. Thy soul is as pure as the crystle stream that flows from its snowy 
bed. Out of the Heart the mouth speakers. The thoughts of thy soul are before the world to read. 
Let them read. It will live when they are Dead. Continue to let the inspiration of thy soul be given 
unto men. Haste thy mission here upon Earth. For Eloheam, Jehovah, Michael Angels seraphs 
Apostles Prophets Thy Father and Mother Brethren and sisters await thy Coming with Joy. Thou 
hast been true and faithful and art sealed unto Eternal life and secured unto thyself a Crown of 
Glory. No Power shall take it. It awaits thy coming. Soon this Blessing will be thine . Ah what 
Joy what Consolation. Who Can Comprehend it? None but a saint. Soon will thou Enjoy this 
Blessing. Did I say soon? Yes not because I expet thee to leave us. But shouldst thou remain to 
see Zion Redeemed (which may God grant) and her Enemies Conquered and sin and sinners find 
a grave, and Zions Land be cleansed and the Temple of our God in Jackson County be reared, 
Clothed with the Power of God, with her towers marked with a pillar of fire by night, and a 
Cloud by day, And the way prepared for the Coming of the Son of Man, it will be soon. 

Then Holy Muse Continue for a short moment thy mission upon the Earth. Pass through the Ills 
of life to still Cumfort thy Friends and administer salvation in the House of God and thy Reward 
shall be doubled unto THEE. 

W. Woodruff 

Great Salt Lake City July, AD 1857 


{ ======================= 

To Elder Wilford Woodruff By E. R. Snow 


=========================} 

With true respect and as a tribute due 
To friendship Brother Woodruff unto you 
As one more Blessed than most your fellow men 
I now address the Effusion of my pen. 

You was Appointed ere your mortal birth 
To an Apostleship upon the Earth. 


Page89 




The Lord Our God has had his Eye on thee 
With watchful Care from Earliest infancy. 

You was preserved midst Babylonish night 
From Atheistic and sectarian blight. 

From manly rectitude you did not swerve 
The priests of Baal you never stooped to serve. 

From heav'nly courts the light that's shineing now 
Shone on your path and mantled oe’r your brow. 
Eternal visions open’d to your view. 

You loved the truth and found salvation to. 

You then with Joy the gospel Banner bore 
To distant lands and on your native shore 
In truth’s defence most valiantly you stood 
And clear’d your gannents of the gentiles blood. 

One of the chosen Twelve who’re Called to stand 
To turn the gospel Key for ev'ry land 
Your name in honor as a faithful one 
To future generations will be known. 

With heart inspired rich matter to indite 
In Zion now your business is to write. 

With skill you wield the ready writer's pen. 

Tis yours to immortalize the deeds of men. 

Full many a righteous act and gifted word 
By saints performed — from lips of Prophets heard 
Had sliped mem’ries of Judicious men 
But for the promptings of your faithful pen. 

The Church Historians labours to divide 
As his assistant coupled side by side 
You write for Zion whare her Hist'ry known 
Inscribing hers perpetuates your own. 

Faithful to God and to your Brethren true 
Integrity has twin’d a wreath for you 
Of never fading laurels which will be 
A glorious Coronet Eternally. 

In that blest world whare light and knowledge dwell 
Your Blessedness no Earthly tongue Can tell 


Page90 




Whare heaven’s Effulgence will your Head surround 
And you with Everlasting glory Crown’d. 

Fill’d with immortal majesty and might 
Associated with the God's in light 
With gifts and powers of Endless lives You'll be 
Progressing on and on Eternally. 

G S L City Nov 23d 1857 


=========================} 

Dec 17th I spent the day in the Office mostly fileing papers. 

18th \ \ President Brigham Young Called into the Historians office 20 minuts to 10 oclok and set 
and heard his history read up to the reorganization of the Church on the 8th of Aug 1844. 

We spent the day in the office and in the evening we called upon President Brigham Young at his 
Office to make some enquiries upon certain teachings of Joseph Concerning the Endowmets. 
Elder G. A. Smith said that Joseph taught that but one King & Priest could be anointed at one 
meeting in a private Room Dedicated by permission to Anoint in. But one person Could be 
anointed in a day but in the Temple several Could be anointed in a day But at each anointing the 
meeting was dismissed and them Came together. 

President Young said Joseph taught him to take the Quorums of the Church in their order 
begining at the Oldest of Each Quorums & Anoint them Kings & Priest unto God. When I got 
through with that begin at the begining again to administer for the dead. When The Temple is 
finished & a place duly prepared we should not be Confined to any particular Number in sealing 
and Anointing. The rooms next to the East pulpit or over it will be the place to attend to the 2d 
Anointings. Under the pulpit in the west End will be a place to Offer Sacrafizes. There will be an 
Altar prepared for that purposes so that when any sacrifices are to be offered they should be 
offered there. j_ \ 

19th I spent the day in the office On History. 

20th Sunday I attended meeting at the Tabernacle. Erastus Snow then Albert Carrington read the 
Govornor messge to the Legislative Assembly. In the Afternoon D. H. Wells followed by H. C. 
Kimball. I attended the prayer meeting in the evening. 

Dec 21 Monday I met with the Legislative Council most of the time in the Joint session 
Resolutions were offerd upon the merits of the Govomors Message which Resolutions were like 
a Declaration of independance against wicked and ungodly men. This drew speeches from John 
Taylor G. A. Smith W. Woodruff O. Hyde, H Stout, Bishop Rowberry J. C. Litle, W W Phelps 
&c. Many interesting remarks were made. 

G A. Smith said it was a grave question before us and one of vast import if we carry out these 


Page9 1 





resolutions we may prepare our necks for the Halter if our Enemies Catch us. I am in for the 
measure because it is right. The United States are determined to destroy the Monnons if it is in 
their power. But we have to defend ourselves. 

In the remarks which I made I said I did not think their ever was an Assembly of men on Earth 
that deliberated upon so weighty a subjet upon which hung such important consequences with the 
same feeling which pervades the bosoms of this assembly. For all that we possess in this life 
including all our lives are couched in this important subjet. 

Yet evry mind is calm and serene and not a disenting vote or voice. Why is this? When Our 
Fathers set in solumn Convention upon the subject of our Declaration of Independance they knew 
well that their Cause was just. Yet it required the strongest talent and argumet and language was 
exherted to bring that august body of senators to agree as a unit in putting their names to that 
Sacred instrumet. The speech of Sir Patrick Henry was a masterly Effort of talent & oritory upon 
that solumn occasion. 

It does not require any argumet with this body of men to Convince them what Course to persue. 
What Causes this difference? They were inspired by the Lord to step forth to esstablish an 
Independant Government in America, but this body of Men are far more inspired by the same 
God to esstablish the Kingdom of God upon the Earth and lay a foundation for the Liberty and 
salvation of our Children and to lift up a Standard for the oppressed of all nations. Our path is 
marked out as plain to our view as is our broad street or the missippi River to the natural Eye. 

The Same God who inspired our Fathers to Esstablish a Free government said through the 
prophet Joseph Smith that if ever the Constitution of the United States or its principles were ever 
preserved it would have to be done by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints even the 
servants of God Holding the Holy priesthood. That day has now Come & the day is dawning 
when we are Called to act. The Same God who has destroyed two Nations who have dwelt upon 
this Continent because of their iniquity, has also said that all other Nations who should occupy 
this Continent when they were ripened in iniquity should in like manner be Cut off from the earth 
and not left to pollute the Land of Joseph or the Land of Zion. I do not know what Els our Nation 
can do in order to fill up their Cup of iniquity than what they have done and are doing. I do not 
know of any other key the United States Can turn to seal fast their Condemnation than the 
Exertions which they are makeing to destroy the Saints of God for their religion. I am in For the 
measure because it is right. 

The Council adjourned till Wednesday 23. 

22d Met in the office with G. A. Smith and others. Spent a part of the day in looking over & 
filling Dr Richards papers. 

23d I met in the Legislative Council. A short speech was Made By Lorenzo Snow. Various 
Subjects talked over. Then A subscription List was presented to the Council to see how many 
each person would sustain in the Anney now to be fitt up for next Summers Campaign. I signed 


Page92 




2 person which I have to Furnish with 3 Animals Clothing, bedding, Anns, amunit[ion] food, &c 
&c. After transacting the business of the day we adjourned untill the 4th day of January. 

I have been troubled for Several days with severe pain in one of my Eye teeth. I had taken Cold 
& it had setled in my Jaw & tooth and it was swoolen & much inflamed. I Called upon a Dentist 
and had it pulled. As soon as He pulled it my Mouth fdled with Blood. He gave me a cup of Cold 
water to tens my mouth. I spit out the Blood & filled my mouth with Cold water. It struck my 
brain numb like a stroak of the Palsey for a few seconds. Then the numness left me and at each 
beat of the pulse a I 1 Pain went through my Brain like an Arrow or a thunder bolt for the tenn of 
two hours untill it appeared as though my head would burst. This pain Continued in my head 
untill I covered my head with hot potatoe poultice & got into a high state of perspiration. 

I never before heard of an ins[tance?] of this kind. I reason upon it thus. That if being an Eye 
tooth & taking cold water into my mouth before the goum had Cl[osed?] the water Chilled the 
nerve runing from the tooth through the Eye to the Brain and the Cold Blood was instantly 
Carried to the Brain which Created a concussion which was both excruciating and dangerous. 
Had the water been warm instead of Cold no such effect would have been produced. Let surgeon 
& Dentist observe this rule when pulling Eye teeth. Use warm water instead of Cold. 

24 I spent the day in the office on the Dr papers mostly & scraping. 

25 Christmas I spent the day in the Office writing Journal & History. It was vary quiet in the 
streets through the day. I had a supper at my own house and spent the evening with my Children 
in an agreeable manner. 

26th I heard an Early report this morning that the social Hall was On fire. I soon went over and 
found the room occupied by the Legislative Council nearly burned up and a part of the chairs. It 
smoaked up the whole House. It will Cost several Hundred dollars to repair it. I spent the day in 
the office on History. 

27th Sunday I attended meeting at the Tabernacle. W. Woodruff spoke in the morning followed 
by Presidet Young in the afternoon. Warren S. Snow spoke followed by H. C. Kimball. I 
attended the prayer Circle in the evening. 

28th I spent most of the day in the office in looking over my Journal. I met with the Quorum of 
seventies or the Presidets of seventies at the 70" Hall. I spoke to them about 3/4 of an hour. Was 
followed by Wm Kimball, Erastus Snow A. P. Rockwood & Joseph Young. 

29th I spent the day in the Office scraping & hearing Elder Kimball History read. I spent the 
evening in the office. 

30 I was in the office a part of the day. I Corrected a sennon for the press. Brother G. A. Smith 
went with me through the City to obtain paper for the Historians office. We obtained near 7 
Reams of paper. President Young advised us to employ Richard Bently for a Clerk as he was a 
man in whom he had Confidence. 


Page93 




3 1st I Called upon President Young and asked his opinion Concerning a Cotton Company. He 
said the time had Come for us to act and not talk. If the people had done as you and I have 
concerning sheep there would have now been a good supply in this Territory. And with regard to 
Cotton I am now going to send men into the Cotton Country to make Cotton for me so I Can 
have some to use myself and if you or any of the Brethren wish to Join me you can. 

I walked out with him to the bam. Saw his stock of Mules Horses Cows &c. I saw Col 
Allexander Mule. It was the poorest Animals in the lot. 

I met in Council with the board of Directors of the Agricultural society. Heard a report of the 
treasurer and prepared an article for the press. 

I looked over my Journal during the year AD 1857 A synopsis of which will be found on the 
following page. 

Thus ends another Year. Eighteen hundred and fifty Seven has past and gone to return no more 
forever. It has borne its report to heaven of all men and Nations. It has been an important year to 
Zion and the world. 1857 will be the year on histories page which will be dated the 
Commencement of the downfall of the United States For it is during this year that they have 
entered the field as the open Enemies & persecuters of the saints of the Most High god and have 
sent an Armey of 2,500 men 1,000 miles for the purpose of laying a foundation for the 
destruction of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints called Mormons who have setled 
in the great Bason of North America Called Utah Territory of the State of Deserett. Here is 
esstablished the kingdom of God as Daniel saw it by vision, and the people of the United States 
are Determined to destroy the kingdom of God from off the Earth. 

For these things the Judgments of God will now begin to rest more fully upon that Nation and 
will be increased upon them year by year untill they are broaken up and wasted away from under 
Heaven and Cease to become a Nation. And this Calamity will begin to Come spedily upon 
them. And they will be visited with thunder, lightning, storm, whirl winds Earthquakes floods, 
pestilence plagues, war and Devouring fire and the wicked will slay the wicked untill the Nation 
is wasted away and broaken up. 


{WW= = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = ’ 
{WW= = = = = = = = = = = = = = = == = = : 

A Synopsis of my labors in 1857 


I Travelled three hundred & twenty 7 
I Attended 86 meetings 
I Preached 60 Discourses 
I Attended two General Conferences 
I Attended 3 Councils with the Presidency & 12 
I Met with the Bishops 7 times 


327 Miles 
86 Meetings 
60 Times 

2 Conferences 

3 Councils 
7 Meetings 


Page94 




I Met with the High Priests 4 times 
I Met with the Presidents of Seventies 
8 times 

I Met with the Missionaries 8 times 
I Attended the Prayer Circle 45 times 
I Attended the Legislature during 
40 days 

I Met with the Agricultural Society 
5 times 

I spent 12 days in the Endowment House 
I Baptized 3 And Confirmed 17 
I Blessed 26 Missionaries and 
8 Children 

I Administered to 6 sick persons 
I Married 2 Couple 
I dedicated the Baptismal font of the 


4 Meetings 

8 Meetings 
8 Meetings 
45 Prayer C. 

40 days 
Session 

5 Meetings 
12 Meetings 
3=17 Baptized &C 

34 Blessed 

6 Administered 
4 Married 
14th ward 


I Prepared the Books and attended the deposit in the Temple of the Great Salt Lake City on the 
13d Aug 1857 

I Reported 7 sermons, wrote 44 Letters and Received 27 


:WW} 

=WW} 


Wilford Woodruffs Journal for 1858 


} 


January 

Jan 1st 1858 This is the first day of a new Year of 1858. It is a vary plesant wann day, calm and 
serene. Is it an omen of peace and serenety to Zion for a year to come? Time must determin. We 
live in a day and generation which is big with Events. As the Church and kingdom of God 
advances to fulfill its destiny it Carries in its train Events, and is accomplishing a work which is 
of the Deepest interest to all mankind whether the living or the Dead who have ever tabernacled 
or ever will tabernacle upon this the footstool of our God. All Prophets or Apostles or inspired 
men of God who have written or spoken Concerning this Generation whether Recorded in 
Records revealed or sealed have pointed out Clearly the events as they have transpired and as 
they will transpire before our Eyes. 

It has now been over 30 years since Joseph Smith the prophet received the gold plates from the 
Hand of the Angel Moroni from which He translated the Book of Mormon And it will be 28 


Page95 




years the 6 day of next April since the first Branch of the Church of Jesus Christ was organized 
upon the Earth Containing 6 members. This little Branch of the Church like a small mustard seed 
has been nourished by the hand of God through all of its difficulties afflictions and persecutions, 
untill it is becoming the Greatest off all herbs according to the parable of the Saviour who refered 
to it. It has Continued to grow and flourish in the midst of a strong warfare and opposition of 
wicked men and Devils Untill it is growing into a kingdom in the midst of these mountains and 
Everlasting Hills as spoken of by Daniel and other Prophets. 

The Church and kingdom of God has had to wade through a scenery of persecution oppression 
and Blood inflicted upon her by the inhabitants of the United States from its first 
Commencement up to the present time untill many have been slain and martered for their religion 
including the Prophet Joseph who was the founder of the Church in this dispensation who was 
shot in Carthage Jail with his Brother Hiram by a wicked and hellish mob. As the Church has 
increased so has the opposition increased against it untill the inhabitants of Cities, towns, 
Counties and States have arisen up in their wrath detennined to destroy the saints of God from 
off the Earth. The governors rulers and people have all been united in this persecution and 
inasmuch as the Saints of God Continued to grow and thrive the whole United States 
Government with President James Buchannan at there head have sent an Army of 2,500 men to 
lay a foundation for our destruction. 

The Saints of God have prayed that the Lord would hedge up their way that they Could not Come 
into our valley to shed our Blood, or that we need not shed their Blood and the Lord has heard 
the prayers of his Saints and has hedged up their way. They Came as far as Forts Bridger & 
supply On the East Side of the mountains and there have to remain for the winter while we are 
still enjoying our homes and Firesides in peace. To all human appearance that Great Nation the 
United States with 25,000,000 of souls are detennined to Expend their treasures & use their force 
for the Destruction of the Church and kingdom of God from of the Earth who are now dwelling 
in thes vallies of the mountains. But we trust in God as we have done heretofore and now look 
forward with feelings of Deep interest to the Events of 1858 Believing that God will preserve his 
Saints and Chastize his Enemies. 

The wicked know not what they do. "Darkness Covers the Earth and gross darkness the people." 
"The Heathen rage and the people imagin vain things. They say let our Eye look upon Zion and 
let her be defiled" "but they know not the thoughts of the Lord neither understand they his ways." 
"The Lord will have them in derision, He will laugh at their Calamity & mock when their fear 
Cometh." Their destruction will Come suddenly upon them as a whirl wind and no power Can 
Deliver them. The measure which they have meeted unto the saints, and seek to bring upon them 
shall be meeted unto them again as a Nation, as States, Counties, towns, Cities, and families 
untill evry man who does not draw his sword against his Neighbor will be oblieged to Flee to 
Zion for safety And these things shall shurely Come to pass for the Lord God has spoken it. 

Then prepare yourself O Land of America for the judgments of the God of Heaven await you and 
are nigh even at your doors. For the Lord hath looked down from his Holy habitation and hath 


Page96 




beheld all your wickedness and abomination and all the Evil designs of your hearts and all your 
secrets plans for the destruction of the Saints of the Most High. For all these things God will 
bring you into Judgment and He will require the stewardship at the Hands of the President of the 
United States and at the Hands of the Senators, and Representatives, and Govornors, and Judges, 
and all the Rulers of the Land will all be held responsible for the use they make of the liberties & 
blessings put into their hands and the whole people of the Land who Elect the officers of 
Government will be held responsible for the conduct of those officers as well as their own 
Conduct in their dealings with the Church and kingdom of God upon the Earth. 

Let us watch the signs of the times of 1858 and we shall find that the Lord will soon Come out of 
his hiding place and in his fury he will vex the Nation and in his hot displeasure he will begin to 
Cut off the wicked and unjust stewards and appoint them their portion with hypocrites and 
unbelievers. Let the Saints of God prepare for that which is to come. 

Jan 1st 1858 1 Spent the day in the office upon my Journal and upon the History of the Church. I 
attended the ward Party at Bellows Hall with my family. The Hall was full a large assembly. All 
seemed to enjoy themselves well in the dance. 1 did not dance, But remained a spectater till 9 
oclok. 

I was then Called upon to make a few remarks which 1 did in the following Manner: I said 1 
Consider this assembly Composed of Gentlemen and Ladies yet I feel disposed to address you as 
Brethren and sisters and say I wish you all a happy New Year and 1 Pray my Father in Heaven 
that you may enjoy many a happy new Year in days to come and 1 also pray that when the next 
new Year arives it may find me you occupying your own habitations in these vallies of the 
mountains and if you wish as you are doing this evening to spend a few hours in recreations that 
you may occupy the Halls in this City instead of the top of the twin peaks or any other crags of 
the mountains. 

The Blessings which you are enjoying this evening are from the hand of God. We all should 
acknowledge the hand of God in all things. We have had to bow our necks to the yokes of tyrants 
and our persecuters in days gone by. The scene is gone by past. The yoke is now upon the neck of 
our Enemies in a measure. They have to stop East of the mountains in the snow while we have 
the privilege of living still in our own house. 

It depends upon our own Conducts whether we still enjoy our own houses or have to flee to the 
mountains. I hope that while you go forth in the dance and Enjoy yourselves that you will not 
forget God but that you will net acknowledge the Hand of God in all that you enjoy. You have 
built Houses. I pray that you may Enjoy th inhabit them. You have planted vineyard. I pray that 
you may continue to eat the fruit thereof. I hope you will not forget your prayers before the Lord. 

I have a great desire for the prosperity of this people. I have been associated with this Church for 
the Last 25 years of my life and all the interest I have in time or Eternity is connected with this 
Church and Kingdom. I wish to see it prosper. 


Page97 




We have commenced a new Year. Much will transpire during this year which will be of great 
interest to us as a people. The Nations who have persecuted us will be held responsible for their 
Course towards us. Let us keep the Commandments of God & live our religion & do his will and 
all will be well. May God Bless you. Amen. 

2d I spent the day in the office on the History. 

3d Sunday I attended meeting in the Tabernacle. O. Hyde & G. A. Smith spoke in the morning, 
Joseph Young & D. H. Wells in the afternoon. We had a good meeting. 

I attended the prayer meeting in the evening. He sealed a wife to Capt Lot Smith. The subject 
arose about the burning up of our City. President Young said that I think we shall use this room 
yet for a few Years to come yet I mean to be ready. 

Brother Rich said their is snakes on the desert that have Hornes. It was said that their is also 
snakes that have Joints and when struck will fly to peaces then come to gether again. President 
Young spoke abot a large green snake found by Brother Woodruff. Said when He struck him 
spued out of his mouth such poisonous matter that it filled the air with such a stench that he had 
to leave the ground. 

The subject of the Death of P. P. Pratt Came up. Erastus Snow said there is some m[e/a?]n in this 
City that thirst for my Blood. He felt this strongly in spirit. As he was about to start for meeting 
this feeling was so strongly upon him that He did not wish to go to meeting. Brother Pollard did 
not think ther was any danger. Brother Pratt made Brother Pollard promise that he would protect 
him untill his return before he would leave for the meeting. At this vary time Mr MCClain had 
taken lodgings Joining Parley's Room and was attending his meetings with loaded weapons 
seeking an opportunity to kill him. G. A. Smith advised P. P. Pratt not to go to Arkansaw but to 
go diret to Salt Lake & take care of himself. He told Parly if he went to try to protet Eleanor & 
her Children He would loose his life. But He did not take Care of himself or take G. A. Smith 
Council But went to Arkansas & was murdered by Mr MCLain. 

4th I learned this morning that the Calafomia Mail had Come in & that O Pratt E T Benson & 
others was in Sanbernadeno & would soon be in this City. I attended the Legislative assembly. 
Both Houses sat together. The News papers was called for & Capt Van Vliet report was read. 
Also the City of Baltimore was placed under Martial Law. 7,000 troop called out &c. I met with 
the Joints Committee in the afternoon, & spent the evening in the Office. 

5th I met with the Joint assembly. It was one of the most important ? ^ days of the assembly. A 
strong Resolution or memorial to Congress was presented to the Assembly and adopted and 
Copies prepared for the signitures of the members. Also the correspondence of Gov Brigham 
Young was presented & read viz His Correspondence with the United States armey and was 
ordered to be printed. I spent the evening in the office on my Autibiography. 

6th \ I spent the day in the Joint assembly. Gov Young Called in and herd our memorial to 


Page98 




Congress read. It is a strong document Calling upon the Congress of the United States for our 
Constitutional Rights in strong terms. It was signed by all the members and Officers of the 
Legislature of this Territory. I spent the afternoon in the Office. 

7th } I wrote 2 letters and sent to Ilus F Carter & Ozem Woodruff. I also sent 3 Papers to Ilus F 
Carter Dec 23d 1856 containing the Govomors Message & Jan 6 1858, Containing sermons of B 
Young H C Kimball & W Woodruff and an extra Containing Our strong Memorial to Congress 
signed by all the members of the Legislature and Gov Youngs correspondence with the Army. I 
also sent Father Carter an Extra. Ozem Woodruff 2 Jan 6 1858 & the Extra and Ozem T. 
Woodruff 2 Jan 6, 1858 and Extra. I also sent Luther Wheeler 2 papers June [sic] 6th 1858 and 
Extra. I also sent Samuel Demining 2 papers June [sic] 6 1858 and Extra News. 

President Brigham Young Called into the office and heard the History read of Phineas Young. I 
spent the day and evening in the office. 

8 I went to the office at 1 1 oclock whare I spent the remainder of the day. President Young 
Called in at half past 1 oclok to hear Phineas Youngs History read. He spent a short time with us 
and left. Spoke of Allexander the great and of our position in these mountains. He did not think 
there ever was a people on Earth located as we are whare their Enemies have to travel 1,000 
miles to get to them to war over a Barren plaine without any supplies. I met in the evening with 
the board of Directers of the Deserett agricultural and manufacturing society. 

9th In company with Brother G. A. Smith I called upon President Heber C Kimball who had been 
sick for several days with the Quincy. He was able to set up. We conversed for some 3 Hours. He 
said that United States would not go down vary spedily but gradually and we would be held up as 
a target or as an Ensign for the Kings and Nations of the Earth to look at from time to time. And 
he was satisfied that the indians would do their rough work in a great measure before they 
embraced the gospel. Many remarks were made. 

I attended the anual meeting of the Board and Directors & members of the D. A. & M. Society 
for the purpose of Electing the Officers of the Society. The same President Board of Directors 
and officers as last year. 

Jim Cherekee arived to day from the army and reports that as soon as he arived in Camp they 
took him and put him in Irons kept him over night, then told him to sell what he had and leave 
before sun down and not return again for He was Brigham Youngs spy. 

A company of men or Indians Called upon Gov Young to settle a difficulty which they had 
among themselves. It was soon setled and they went their way. Elders John Taylor and G. A. 
Smith [ ]. 

10th Sunday I attended meeting at the tabernacle. Brother Baxter from Australia spoke first 
followed by John Taylor. In the afternoon W Woodruff and G. A. Smith spoke. I attended the 
prayer Circle in the evening. 


Page99 




I then went home. Administered to Mrs Woodruff who was suddenly attacked with a severe cold 
on the lungs and throat. Brother Phelps & F D Richards administerd with me Brother Richards 
being mouth and she was greatly blessed and relieved. I then went to the 14th ward School 
house, and heard Brother James C. Snow from Utah preach followed By Brother West. I then 
followed them & had the spirit of the Lord with me and was Edefyed with all that was said by all 
the brethren. 

Jan 1 1th 1858 I met with the Legislative assembly and spent most of the day in the assembly. The 
subject arose with regard to taxes making Roads paying the armey and Govornor Young made a 
speech upon the subject. He said let us drop taxes altogether and make our rodes and Bridges 
through the labor tithing also Carry our mails with the loose horses and leasure boys and men 
who are not paying our tithing or doing any thing. As to a paper Currency I can get up one if the 
people want, but it should be so arranged as not to be worth any thing out of this territory. Let it 
be forfeited when it crosses the line. I can do this if the people will pledge their property for its 
redemption. Many speeches were made upon these subjects. D. H. Wells spoke upon the subject 
of raising an armey of 1,000 men and wanted to Command it soon. 

12th I spent most of the day in the Legislature. I carried in a report of the President and Board of 
Directors which drawed out a speech from President Kimball and Wells and many of the 
members & it was required of each member of the assembly to write his views upon agriculture 
& manufactor &c. 

I spent the evening untill 10 oclok in the office. 1 searched the English report upon Sheep and 
found that the south down and Leicester were the two best breeds of sheep in Europe. The 
Lincoln bore 10 lb. fleeces which was the Heaviest. 

13th 1 attended the Legislature till 1 oclok and the evening in the Historians office. 

14th I spent the day in the Historians office. 

15th I spent this day in the Historians office. I Corrected one of my sermons and wrote a peace on 
the Closeing up of the History of Joseph Smith Signed by G. A. Smith & W. Woodruff as 
Historians. I attended a meeting of the board of Directors. I had a sick night with a severe Cold. 

16th 1 arose quite unwell this morning with my Cold. I spent the forenoon in doctering my Horse 
for an old founder. 1 plfysiced [y/'c] him with Human dung then gave him alchahal in Cayenne to 
sweat him. I also set his feet in hot water as Hot as He could bear it. I covered him with Blankets 
and tryed to steem him with Hot Rocks but did not get him to sweat much. 

I attended the mass meeting in the tabernacle. About 3,000 \ men were present and they passed 
strong resolutions and memorials to the President of the United States and to the Senate and 
House of representatives of the Congress of the United States all of which were received with a 
unanamous voice and ordered to be printed in the Deseret News. Committies were appointed 
speeches made &c. 


Page 100 




17th Sunday I was sick all day and did not attend meeting at the tabernacle. Brother Taylor & 
Brigham Young preached in the morning and Heber C Kimball & D H Wells in the afternoon. 

I attended the Prayer Circle. President Young spoke upon order. He formed a true Circle. He 
made each man toe the mark and keep good order or stay at home. You must be of one heart and 
one mind for Jesus said when two or three are gathered together in my name and are agreed as 
touching any one thing and asked the father in my name it shall be given unto you. Now Jesus 
did not tel a lie and when any prayer is offered up & not answered it is because you are not 
agreed in it and their prayers are not offered in faith and Union. Now this is true and I want good 
order and must have it. I would rather trust my faith alone than with company who are not agreed 
with me. 

I want the Twelve to go to the meeting to morrow night to make speeches upon the subject of 
Home manufacturing. I want the Bishops to organize the words in such a manner that we can find 
the mechanics. If there is any man that can take care of sheep I want him to do it and so with 
every other Branch of Business. Brother Heber said that there should not be another Merchant 
come into our midst and set up anoth[er] store. I said Amen and I mean to hold on to the Amen, 
and have faith in it. 

The subject of the Bank came up and much was said upon the subject. President Young said if 
Gen Jackson had with his influence esstablished a United States Bank and Branches and not 
permitted any other Banks in the country it would have been a good thing for the Country. 

18th I spent the day in the Legislator. Was quite unwell. I spent the evening at the House of G. A. 
Smith. 

19th I met in the Legislator in the morning. Adjourned till to morrow 10 oclk. I spent a part of the 
day in the office. I called upon President Young at 1 1 oclok to get a list of the Birth of his 
Children. 

At 10 minutes to 3 oclok Orson Pratt ^ E. T. Benson G. Q. Cannon and many other of the 
Brethren arived at the Presidents Office. I shook them by the Hand and was glad to see them. I 
asked Brother Benson how it was in the States and He said as Bad as it could be. Brother Benson 
said that persecution had Commenced through England. They gather by thousands with sticks 
and stones and they break in the doors & windows knock down the Brethren and take the 
Clothing off the sisters &c. 

We had a mass meeting in the evening or a Bishops meeting with the people. The Tabernacle 
was full. Bishop Hunter occupid a short time in reading the Last minutes, and attending to some 
business. Then President Young made a speech upon the business of the meeting. Presented the 
propriety of haveing a paper Currency. He also told the bishops to see to all the people in his 
ward had a supply of provision and preparation made to cash it in the mountains also the 
organization of an Army of 1 ,000 men. The names of the officers were read and all items of 


PagelOl 




Business presented was recieved by the people with a shout of a loud Amen. Several songs were 
sung then an address by E. T. Benson followed By O. Pratt. Both spoke in the spirit of God. We 
had a good meeting. 

Jan 20th 1858 I met in the Legislature in the morning. Was quite unwell and returned to the 
office. I spent most of the day in the office. 

21st I spent the fore part of the day in the Legislature the evening in the office. We spoke about 
printing the History from the manuscrip & not wait till it is recorded in the Book. 

There were many speeches made in the Legislator to day. H. C. Kimball made a lengthy speech. 
He said that the thread was cut between us and the United States and it would never be tied 
together again. Many other interesting remarks were made. He said that [the] power of God 
would rest upon Gen Daniel H Wells when He went into the mountains to fight the Battles of this 
people as it never did before and upon all the officers & soldiers that was under his Command 
and they should prevail against his Enemies in all things. 

22d I drew home near 600 feet of Lumber this morning for Makeing Boxes for cashing up. I 
spent the afternoon in the office. 

23d I spent the day in the office <[having had the?] [-]>. 

24 Sunday I attended meeting at the Tabernacle. E T. Benson spok in the forenoon till near 1 
oclok. Gave an account of the state of the world abroad and his mission. The English Nation are 
beginning?] to mob the Saints throughout England the same as the United States. The policee 
look on and help the mob. 

Orson Pratt Preached in the Afternoon upon the prophesies. Showed the signs of the times. We 
had bourn a true and faithful testimony. The world had rejected it and they now were bringing 
their armies against us to destroy us but they would not prevail but we should overcome our 
Enemies as the prophets declaire. They had much of the spirit of God & made all things plain. 
Brother John Kay followed Brother Pratt and bore testimony. 

25 I settled my tithing with Bishop Hoagland. I spent the afternoon in the Office and the evening 
at home. Sister Elisha Davis spent the night at my house. 

26th Elders E. T Benson & F D Richards and others Called into the office. I spent the day in the 
office and the evening at home. In Company with Elder Benson & F D Richards I administered 
to Sarah Richards the wife of Dr Willard Richards. E T Benson was mouth. We also 
administered to Susannah Richards. I was mouth. Sarah was strugling with the monster Death 
with the brain fever. She died at I 1 6 oclok P.M. 

27th I went to Fort Hariman and Preached to the people in the evening. I taught the parents to 
Educate their Children and the Children to improve their time & have evening Schools. I spent 
the night at Brother Stockings. 25 mils. 


Page 102 




28 I returned home to day. Sister Sarah Richards was buried to day. I spent the evening at home 
looking over paper scraps. 

29th I spent the day in the office. President Kimball called into the office. Wished his History 
Copied again before it is printed. 

Jan 30 1858 I spent the day in the Office. President Kimball Called upon us in the evening about 
his History. He wished me to go to the theater with him in the evening. I did so. The way [play] 
was Still waters run deep and the new footman. Both were well played. 

3 1st Sunday I attended the meeting at the Tabernacle. H. B. Clawson & E Hanks preached in the 
morning followed by H. C. Kimball. In the afternoon G Q Cannon followed by O Pratt & O 
Hyde. All spoke well and in the spirit of God. I attended the prayer Circle in the evening. 
President Young prayed & H C Kimball was mouth. The spirit of God was with us. 

President Young asked Elder O Pratt How the travelling Elders were supported in England and 
about the tithing &c. Elder Pratt said that Brother F. D. Richards had esstablished a tithing 
system throughout England so that all pay one tenth of all they recieve and this stops the 
Constant Duning for money. This money is then used for supporting the Elders to pay their 
expens to foreign Countries & home and to pay the rent of Chapels and all expenses and when 
we let the Elders have money to pay there expenses home we charge it to them. President Young 
said all persons should have credit on Book for all the tithing they pay that when they come here 
and Enquire about their tithing they can find they have credit for it and when men use tithing it 
should be Charged to them. He said I use a good deal of tithing. I do not know that I use a dollar 
that is not Charged to me. 

Elder Pratt said I now wish to lay before you my situation and how I have done. When I got to 
England I Commenced publishing my Pamphlet and from the avails of it I have supported 
myself. I paid my fare to England and Back and paid what I owed at the Office and I have not 
used any tithing. Brothers Miller, Scott, and the other Brethren Had the tithing money to pay their 
fare home. They said they were willing to have it Charged to them and would pay it as far as they 
could. 

President Young said I will tell you what they are willing to do. They are willing to keep what 
they have got. If they have A Hundred pounds left they will be willing to keep it and say nothing 
about it. 

At the close of the council I went to the 14 ward in Company with Elder O. Pratt who preached 
to the people and I followed him. He preached upon faith and the word of wisdom and many 
other things. We had an interesting meeting. 

February 

Feb 1st I spent the day on history. President Kimball came in & preached to President Daniel 


Page 103 




Spencer & taught him his duties in relation to filling his office as president over this stake of 
Zion. Spoke upon many principle appertaining to the priesthood. 

President Young told a dream which he had last Saturday night. He said 1 saw two United States 
officers and 1 told them the History of this Church and our doctrins and 1 told them that the 
United States must not send any more armies here. If they did 1 should let loose the dogs of war 
upon them and 1 told them they must remove the anny now upon our borders or we should 
destroy them. Brother Kimball called into the office in the afternoon. 

Feb 2d 1858 1 spent the day in the office. President Kimball spent a part of the day with me. 

3d I 1 The Calafomia Mail arived and brought the presidents message which was read in 
Presidents Young office. President Buchanan recommends a strong force against the saints and 
that 4 new regiments of men be raised against us. 1 spent the evening in the president's office 
reading the news of the day. The United States are determined to anhilate the mormons. The war 
is now I 1 between God and the Devil and between Saints & Sinners. Time must determin the 
Contest But 1 am sure that God & his friends the Saints will prevail against the Devil and his 
hosts. What trials and sacrafizes the Saints may be Called to pass through 1 do not know but 1 
pray the Lord to give us grace equal to our day. 

4th 1 called into Capt Hooper's Store. 1 there saw the mail Carrier. He informed me that there was 
but 10 men that knew the new south rout And 8 of them were mormons & with A Lyman or soon 
will be, & there is but 2 left in Calafomia & one had shot the other one & the one left was 
sentenced to be hung soon. 

Brother Clayton informed me that Kinkade had written & infonned him that the last steemer had 
received orders to send 4,000 men immediately on the Southern route & 4,000 from Oregon and 

2.000 would start soon from the Missouri River, And 2,000 now at fort Bridger would make 

12.000 men. 

1 Called at the Presidents office and got my Account which amounted to $410.58 cts. 1 wrote 
Lyman Wights History to day. 1 spent the evening at home wreading scraps sent by the last mail 
on Mormonism. 

5th 1 sent 70 bushels of wheat to mill to day to be ground. 1 spent the afternoon in the office. 1 
attended a meeting of the board of Directors and was appointed on a comittee to prepare an 
article for the pres[t?]on wool. 

6th 1 spent most of the day in the office. 1 Called upon president Young and found a company in 
his office reading the scraps sent from the states against Mormonism. There appears to be a fixed 
detennination by the General Government to annihilate the saints of God from off the Earth & to 
destroy the last vestage of righteousness from among men. 

O Hyde received a letter from Lucky Bill at Carson valley stating that there was a Company 
fitting out at Carson valley and at placerville to Come into our settlements for the purpose of 


Page 104 




robing and plundering. O Hyde wrote him a letter stating that He advised our friends if we had 
any [ ] not to ingage in a Contest against our people for God would smite them with Blindness 

and our Enemies would be given into our hands. 

7th Sunday I attended meeting at the Tabernacle. B. L. Clapp E Partridge Silas Smith & Presidet 
Young spoke in the forenoon & G. A. Smith and H. C. Kimball in the afternoon. I attended the 
prayer Circle. 

Feb 8th I spent the day in the office on History. H C Kimball spent a part of the day with us. 

9th I spent most of the day in the endowment House. About 50 received their endowments. I 
have a severe cough. 

10th I spent this day in the Endowment House. About 60 received their Endowment. I was vary 
unwell. 

Ill spent this day in the endowment House. Near 60 received there Endowment. I remained in 
the House as long as I Could. I went home sick and was so fdled with Cold that I had a hard 
shake of the ague and a high fever followed. I had a vary sick night. 

12 & 13 I was Confined to my house with sickness. 

14 Sunday I was Confined to my house & did not attend meeting. John Taylor & Orson Pratt in 
the fore noon & E T Benson & J L Heywood in the afternoon. 

151 walked up to the Historians office then to the presidets Office. Presidet Young & D. H. 

Wells C C Rich & C. S. Wandle and others were present. President Young Conversed upon 
principle and said that all our sufferings in this life was for our good that we might leam the 
Contrast between good and evil. Jesus descended below all things that He might ascend above all 
things. All men have to pass throug the same Law in order to receive the same Glory. Enoch, 
Elijah, and Moses, who were translated will at some time have to pass through death because the 
Law is that all men must tast of Death and the Lord does not counteract his own laws or break 
them. 

Some are alarmed because so many of my family are sick. But I have as good a right to be sick as 
any body. I would not wish to escape affliction, sickness, paine & sorrow no more than others for 
if we make a right use of them they will return us Blessings. 

Brother Charles Wandle related to Presidet Young his life since he saw him. Told him sins & 
Errors his sorrow and affliction and his missions, and that He had tried to reform &c. He was 
now on hand to do any thing the servants of the Lord wanted. Presidet Young told him [to get] 
some Young women for wives as his first wife had drawn him away and was opposed to 
poligamy and had kept him away from the Church a long time & had turned to whoredom & had 
a Child by another man He now had better let her stay in the Church States whare she now was. 
He said he had had a great Deal of sorrow on her account and even had taken to drinking Brandy 


Page 105 




to overcome the sorrow & to get sleep. He had taken a half pint tumbler full of strong Brandy 
when he went to bed to get sleep. 

Presidet ^ Young remarked I made up my mind years ago that I would be governed by Certain 
principles and among them I decreed that women should not govern me neither should my 
passions of Lust or anger. But I would be boss over myself my passion and appetites which 
principles I have endeavored to Carry out in my life and if all men would do it it would be a great 
Blessing to them. 

In speaking upon Utah affairs Brother Wandle said that Brother Hunt Had a good deal of 
influence in the Calafomia Legislature and He told them and their Senator to Congress that He 
wanted them to appoint a Monnon for Govornor but their senator said that was an impossibility 
for President Buchanan had marked out his course in relation to the Mormons and was resolved 
to carry it out and that was He was detennined to overthrow the Latter Day Saints and their 
institutions let it cost what it would and the president would do nothing in their favor and the 
government were determined to back him up in this. They were detennined to blot out the 
Church government from Utah and no power Could help it. 

President Young said that God had helped it so far and he would Continue to help it unto the End 
and they Cannot Help themselves. All the people want us killed and those that write in our favor 
among the Gentile Editors are full of sin and do not wish us well but they have a motive in view 
to accomplish. The Lord puts that motive in their minds yet they will not honor or serve God or 
acknowledge his hand in any thing but the Lord will govern & Controll them all Just as He 
pleases. When Capt Van Vleit was here He many times refered to the inexaustible overflowing 
treasury of the United States and twenty five million of people and asked if we could stand 
against such a Govemmet. And when He got back he found an Empty treasury and the 
Government wanting to Borrow money. I have no doubt but he thought of these things and 
marvelled of it. 

16th I spent a part of the day in the office. I was in poor health. Many are taken sick through the 
whole territory with a kind of Distemper or pestilence that almost evry one is taken with. It 
Contains Chills fever, Cold & Caugh. It confines people to their Houses for 3 or 4 days then they 
go about again but few if any of the Saints die with it. 

171 spent most of the day in the endowment house. About 60 Received their endowments. I 
spent the evening in the Historians office. 

18th I spent most of the day in the Endowment House & the evening in the Historians office. I 
had an interview with D Huntington. We talked upon Indian affairs. He said that a portion of the 
Utes and Snakes were about uniting and appointing Ben Simons their Chief. The Bannock 
Prophet is coming down soon to see president Young. Several indians have sold their poneys to 
the U.S soldiers for Blankets &c. I Commenced packing flour in Boxes for Cashing this morning. 

191 spent the day in the office reading history. 


Page 106 




20th I spent this day in the office reading the History of President Young. 

21 Febuary 1858 Sunday I attended the meeting at the Tabernacle all day. 

G. D. Grant D H. Wells and G A Smith preached in the forenoon W Woodruff and O Pratt in the 
afternoon. I attended the prayer Circle. O Pratt Prayed and G A Smith was mouth. President 
Young proposed sending some men into the desert to look out habitations for this people and to 
plant some grain. He said if any one of the brethren wished to Join in sending a man they Could 
do so. 

22 I spent the day in the office. Brothers Wandle & Nicholas Groosebeck Called in the office and 
gave an account of their missions Wandle to Australia and Calafornia a[fter?] & Groosebeck to 
St Louis bringing on the Church train and the intention of the armey to take him and his finally 
[selling?] to Rashaw and his escape across the Country to Salt Lake. 

Wandle said that A. C Bennett who is now in Cedar City He was the Captain of the Company 
who undertook to cross the desert they lost evry animal and burned all their waggons about 70 in 
number. He is now going into the desert with a Company at Cedar City to get the Iron. Wandle 
Baptized him and many others that went through the salt Lake City. 

I set out several pears on quince stock one Almond, and 2 peach trees of Carringtons 2d Early. 
We had a snow storm in the night and the wind blew hard. 

23d I spent the day reading the Church history and Correting in Company with G A Smith. 

24th I spent the day in the Office on History. 

25 G. A. Smith started for Provo. I spent the day in the * Office. A Lyman arived in this City at 4 
oclok bringing with him a Messenger diret from Washington who left the 5th day of Jan. He 
Came in 20 days from San francisco. Elder Lyman picked him up near San bernadeno. He was 
barely accompanied by one servant. He comes with dispaches from Washington to Governor 
Young and to the Anney of the United States. 

Govornor Young Called a Council of the Presidency and Twelve at his house at 7 oclok when the 
following Persons were present: Presidents Brigham Young Heber C Kimball and Daniel H. 
Wells Of the Twelve Apostles Orson Hyde W. Woodruff John Taylor, A. Lyman C C Rich, Also 
A Carrington. 

At 8 oclok the Messenger was introduced to us By Joseph Angel Young as Dr Osborne which 
was Col T. L. Kane. He was vary fonnal in his introduction. He was vary pale and worn down 
having travelled night and day. He was seated in an easy Chair. His arival was at 8 oclok. 

He addressed us in the following language (though he had great difficulty in speaking): Govomor 
Young and Gentlemen I Come as an ambassador from the Cheif Execative of our Nation and am 
fully prepared and duly authorized to lay before you most fully and definately the feelings and 


Page 107 




views of the Citizens of our Common Country and of the feelings of the execative towards you 
relating to the present position of Officers of this territory and the armey of the United States 
now upon your Borders. And after giving you the most satisfactory evidences in relation to 
matters Concerning you now pending I shall then Call your attention and wish to enlist your 
sympathies in behalf of the poor soldiers who are now suffering in the cold & snows of the 
mountains and request you to render them aid and Comfort and to assist them to Come here and 
to bid them a Hearty welcome into your hospitable valley. 

Governor Young may I be permitted to ask a private interview for a few moments with you? 
Gentlemen please excuse my formality for a few moments. 

They were about 30 minutes in secret session. They then returned to the room. Col Kane Then 
said that Capt Van Vleit made a good report about us and used an influence to have the Armey 
stop East of Bridger and had done a great deal in our behalf. 

You all look vary well. You have built up a great empire here in a short time. He spoke upon our 
prosperity wheat Bread vegitables. He was asked if Dr Bernhisel took his seat in Congress. He 
said yes he took his seat. He was opposed by the Arkansaw members & a few others but they 
made fools of themselves for if he had been refused his seat it would have been a declaration of 
war. You have bourn your part manfully in this Contest. I was pleased to see how patiently the 
people took it. 

Govornor Young asked how the Presidents message was received. The Dr said as usual in his 
appointments he has been Cruelly impartial. So far he has made an excellent president. He has an 
Excellent Cabinate. They are more united and work together better than former Cabinets have 
done. 

President Young said I suppose they are united in putting down Utah. Col Kane said I think not. 
Buchanan made one Balk in the Spanish affair and in the Black warrior affair. The Canses affair 
is not setled as yet and I hope it may grow worse untill the people will take it in hand. 

In speaking of the money pressure he said it Commenced with the failure of the Ohio Life 
insurance and trust Company and then the Banks and other firms followed in their turn. 

Col Kane Said I wish you knew how much I feel at home. I hope I shall have the privilege of 
Breaking bread with these my friends. 

Gov Young said I want to take good care of you. I want to tell you one thing and that is the men 
you see here do not look old and the reason is they are doing right and are in the service of God 
and if men would do right they might live to a great age. There is but few men in the world that 
have the great amount of Labure to do which I have. I have to meet men evry hour in the day. I 
stand in the streets and do more business in an hour than Any presidet, king or Emperor has to 
perform in a day. I have to think for the people Constantly. I think that you can endure more now 
than you could 10 years ago. If you had done as some men have you would now have been in 


Page 108 




your grave before now. 

Col Kane said that I fear that I Can endure more than I could 10 years ago for I feel that my life 
dont pay and I feel like going away as soon as it is the will of God [to] take me. 

President Young remarked I know to take this life as it is and as men make it it does not appear 
worth living in but I well tell you that when you see things as they are you will find life is worth 
preserving and blessings will follow our living in this life if we do right. Now if God should say I 
will let you live in this world without any pain or sorrow we might feel life was worth living for 
but this is not in the economy of God. We have to partake of sorrow affliction and death and if 
we pass throug this affliction patiently and do right we shall have a greater reward in the world to 
come. 

I have been robed several times of my all in this life and my property has gone into the hands of 
my Enemies but as to property I Care no more about it than about the dirt in the streets ownly to 
use it as God wishes it. 

But I think a great deal of a friend a true friend an honest man is the noblest work of God and to 
live in such a society is a great Blessing but we shall live to enjoy that privilege. It is not in the 
power of the United States to destroy this people, for they are in the hands of God and so are we. 
And he will do with us as he pleases and if he does right God will preserve us. 

The Lord does many things which we would count as small things. A poor man Came into my 
Office. I felt by the spirit that He kneeded five dollars in money. I took it out of my pocket and 
gave it to him. I soon after found a five dollar gold peace in my pocket which I did not put there. 

I soon found another. This was put in my pocket by the Lord or some agent. Many think that the 
Lord has nothing to do with gold but he has charge of that as well as any other Element. 

Brother Kimball said in Nauvoo if we had to leave our Houses let them go. We will go to the 
mountains and in a few years we will have a better City than we have here. This is fulfilled. He 
also said we will have gold and Coin twenty dollars peaces and we Came here formed a City and 
Coined the first twenty dollars peices in the United States. And seeing the brethren poorly Clad 
He said it would not be three years before we could by Clothing Cheaper in salt Lake valley and 
before the time was out the gold digers brought loads of Clothing and sold them in our City at 
quarter price. 

He then said Brother Thomas the Lord sent you here and he will not let you die. No you Cannot 
die till your work is done. I want to have your name live with the Saints to all Eternity. You have 
done a great work and you will do a greater work still. We then parted and went to our homes. 

26 I spent the day in the office Journalizing. I had a social sit down in my hous with G A Smith 
A Lyman Orson Pratt and A. O. Smoot. 

27th I called upon Col Kane Mrs Woodruff also. He received \ us cordially. Soon G. A. Smith 
came in. We spent several hours conversing to gether. Talked over old times. Spoke of 


Page 109 




government affairs also the travels of Dr Kane in the polar regions. The world did not [know] his 
sufferings in that land. He had a mad lunitic Companion?] to deal with and Came near starving 
to death. Even he killed poor skeleton rats and sucked their blood to keep him alive. He spoak of 
his death. He suffered much in the last hours. The world lost a valuable man at his death. He had 
a knowledge of many things which would be valuable to the world that died with him. 

At the Close of Our interview we Called upon Presidet Young. He spoke of his interview with 
Col Kane last evening and He learned the following fact in relation to his visit to us in 1846. That 
Maj Mitchel reported to President Polk that the Mormons were receiving large sums of Money 
from the British Government and they were Conniving with the indians against the government. 
But it was not Generally believed and some said we were a poor persecuted people and ought to 
be helped instead of being persecuted and it was proposed to give us a part of Kansas Territory 
which would have been done had it not have been for secretary Marey. He said he would resign if 
it was done and finally when it was known that General Carney was friendly to us he was sent off 
and when Col Allen was appointed to take charge of the Monnon Battalion and he became our 
friend, the Doctors killed him. Col Kane was sent out by the president to know the truth 
Concerning us as a people and make a true report of it which he accomplished and done us good. 

1 spent the evening in the office. 

28 Sunday 1 attended meetings at the Tabernacle. All the presidency were present and O. Hyde O 
Pratt W. Woodruff J. Taylor G. A. Smith A Lyman C. C. Rich E Snow and F. D. Richards of the 
Twelve were present. A Lyman O Hyde Ferrymore Little, Heber C Kimball and Brigham Young 
spoke in the fore noon. Samuel Butler John Taylor and Presidet Young spoke in the afternoon. 
Butler had been Cut off from the Church By Bishop Cahoon, yet he partook of the sacrament and 
forced himself upon the people and preached a Bundle of nonsens. The presidet called a vote to 
have him remain out of the Church and go back to the states if he wished. Much testimony was 
brought against his Character. 

1 attended the prayer meeting in the evening. O. Hyde Prayed. John Taylor was Mouth. 

March 

March 1st 1858 1 am 5 1 years of age this day. Time flies with that rapidity that 1 can hardly 
believe my own senses. 1 fitted out Robert Scholes who started to relieve our guard in the 
mountains. 1 took up 300 peach and plum trees which Brother Wandle took into the Country. 1 
spent the afternoon in the office. 

2d I spent the most of the day in the Endowment house. We gave Endowment to about 40 
persons. I had an interview with Col Kane and Conversed upon many things. Elders John Taylor 
E Snow & Capt Hooper all called to see him. As we were leaving Presidet Young arived and 
took him from Brother Stanes to his own house. 

March 3d I spent most of the day in the Endowment House. We gave Endowments to 53. My 
Men Commenced gardning to day. 


Pagel 10 




4th ;}■ \ I wrote a lengthy communication to Col T. L. Kane giving a reason of our hope and faith 
and the cause of our defending ourselves in these vallies of the mountains. It contained 6 pages of 
fools cap. I spent most of the day in the endowment house. We gave the endowmet to about 50. 

5th I went into the big field to see my wheat. I had not seen it since I put it in last fall. Their did 
not seem to be but little wheat on the ground and severel lengths of fence was down. I spent the 
afternoon in my office. 

6th I spent the day in the office on my history. 

7th Sunday I attended meeting at the tabernacle. O Pratt preached. Was followed By President 
Heber C. Kimball and Daniel H Wells made a few remarks. In the afternoon John Taylor spoke 
followed By E. D. Woolley. 

I attend the prayer Circle. John Smith prayed. Erastus Snow was mouth. President Young said I 
saw this City last night in a dream placed upon high rocks thousands of feet high men women & 
Childrens with a River at the Bottom that was full of Barges and boats with our Enemies in them 
but they Could not get to us. 

8th ■?$ We had an express in this morning from salmon River bringing sorrowful news. The 
Snakes and Bannocks made a break upon the Brethren at the fort and drove off nearly all ther 
stock. Left them but 4 Horses and a few Yoke of Cattle. They killed two or three of the Brethren 
and wounded several more. They wounded Capt Smith. The Indians were lead by a white man 
named Powell. 

I took 150 peach trees & 25 Plum trees to the tithing Office as my tithing on fruit trees. 

9th I spent most of the day in the tithing Endowment house. A large Company received their 
endowment. I spent the evening in the office. 

10th I spent most of the day in the endowmet House. We gave about 50 their endowments. One 
hundred mounted men were ordered to the North with the 100 men that went out with Col 
Cunningham, and 50 men was ordered East. Their is a report that all the Indians in the Southern 
Settlements have gone into the mountains and that the mountaineer and Indians north East of 
Salmon River have gathered large flocks of Cattle and Horses for the U.S. Armey. If we were to 
Judge from the present signs of the times we might expet an Indian and white war but all things 
are in the hands of God and he will govern & Controll all things right. 

On my returned home I found that my com which was put up in the upper Story of my granery in 
the ear and the damp State began to heat and mold. I went to work and carried about 200 bushels 
of ears in baskets down a ladder on my sholders. Then my wives and Children took it and carried 
it and spread [it] in my Chambers in the house. When I got through I was vary weary and sore. 

Elder G A Smith returned from Provo at 5 oclok. 


Pagel 1 1 




1 1th I went into the endowment house early this morning and laboured incessantly till past 2 
oclok. I then went into the office and spent the evening. Elder Nathaniel H. Felt was badly kicked 
yesterday with a Mule. 

121 spent a short time in the morning in my garding setting out Strawburies, sowing Cabage 
Onions and radish. 

I then went to the office. Found Elders Kimball O Hyde G A Smith waiting to read history to the 
President. Brother Hyde said that mother Eldridge had a dream of late. Father Eldridge appeared 
to her. Was dressed in the most splendid military aray. She said Father are you going to fight the 
soldiers? I am going into the mountains to help defend the Kingdom of God. 

The president got a letter from Ben Simons stating that he and his men are friendly that they have 
one stolen horse from the mormons which they will send in or any other animals that his men 
may steal. It is also rumured that the Indians South who have been to the armey are vary hungry 
and wish to Come into the settlements and get sumthing to eat. 

President Young son Came in. We read to him the history of Thomas B. Marsh, D. W. Patten 
Wm E. MCLellin, Wm. Smith, Lyman E Johnston, John Boynton Luke Johnson John E. Page 
and Lyman Wight. 

13th I sowed some peas in the morning and trimed up my peach trees which had been budded. I 
also sowed some Australia wheat. 

I met in the Historians office at 10 oclok with Elders O. Hyde, O. Pratt, G. A. Smith & E. T. 
Benson. O. Pratt said that Charles R. D[ainy?] wrote a pamphlet in which he said that He had a 
vision and warned me while going East to move my waggon and I done so and soon an Oak tree 
fell whare my waggon stood. I had this impression myself and named it myself to my wife before 
I got out of my Carriage. 

Presidents Young and Kimball Came in and we read the history of Orson Hiyde P. P. Pratt and E. 
T. Bensons. 

14th Sunday A cold stormy day. There was a meeting at the Tabernacle in the forenoon. I spent 
the day in the office writing my history. I attended the Prayer Circle in the evening. Bishop 
Edward Hunter opened by prayer. E. T. Benson was mouth in the Circle. 

15th I spent most of the day in the endowmet House the remander of the day in the office on 
Brother Kimballs History. 

March 16 The rush valley Company met in the Office in the morning. Luke Johnson was present. 
The Indians are stealing horses and Cattle and threatning life to such a degree that President 
Young sent word to Bishop Rowbury to gather in the people and stock on the outpost and set a 
guard to watch the passes. I Called upon Presidet Young to ask his Council about the Johnson 


Pagel 12 




Settlemet. He said he would advise that the women and Children be moved to Toillee and the 
men to guard at Johnsons Settlement so they Could put in spring crops and gather up the Cattle 
near the Lake and guard them. Segoet and Waraket are the Chiefs and leaders of the Band in 
those rallies who are stealing. Green Jacket said that He was opposed to killing the mormons. 
Betters Concocked the plan of killing the m[a/e?]n that was killed last summer. 

17th I started my team and Wilford this morning to rush valley to help move the women and 
Children. I spent the fore part of the day in the endowment House the afternoon and evening in 
the office on Brother Kimballs History. An express arived at sundown from Skul valley that 
about 30 Indians had made an attack on the men in that valley shot at them and drove of all the 
Horses and Cattle they Could. They would have massacreed all the families ownly they were kept 
off by about 10 armed men who had just arived in season to save them. Governor Young ordered 
50 mounted men to start by light in the morning and order his own waggons and teams to go and 
Carry baggage. 

18 Three signal guns were fired this morning for the anned men to gather. 60 or 70 men Started 
on horsback and many baggage waggons followed with instructions to take the indians and bring 
them in to this City and try them and shut them up and keep them as hostages for the good 
Behavior of the other. 

I spent the forenoon in the office on history. G. A. Smith Called upon President Young and asked 
him if we should publish the History of T. B. Marsh and D. W. Patten before Brother Kimballs as 
his was not ready. He said yes. I called upon Elder Kimball and asked the same question. He said 
yes he would as leaves have his History published last as first. 

A Council of war was Called at the Historians Office at 2 oclok theire being present Presidets B 
Young H C Kimball D. H. Wells C C Rich and O. Hyde O. Pratt W. Woodruff G. A. Smith F. D. 
Richards Benson & Snow of the Twelve A. Carrington and 30 Military officers. Speeches were 
made by the presidency Twelve and other Officers. Presidents Youngs plan was to go into the 
desert and not war with the people and let them destroy themselves. 

Robert Returned home in the night. 

19th I spent most of the day in the Council House giving endowment to 38 persons. I spent the 
rest of the day in the office on H C Kimballs History. I had a meeting with my family and taught 
them principle. 

March 20 I Called at the office in the morning and spent the day in the office. Presidents Young 
and Kimball spent about 4 hours with us in reading history. We read President Kimball synopsis 
of his history which has Cost us vast labour and perplexity. We also read Amasa Lymans History. 
Both was approved of. I feel vary thankful that we in a measure are getting through with the 
History of the Twelve for it has Cost me nearly a years hard brain labor. 

21st Sunday I attended meeting at the Tabernacle. The Presidency and a part of the Twelve were 


Pagel 13 




present. I spoke in the morning. Then the meeting was turned into a special Conference. The 
Presidency spoke. Then it was resolved to move all the people and provision to the Southern 
Country and go into the desert as soon as possible and evacuate this City and be ready to bum the 
whole City to [the] ground before our enemies Come to take possession of it. 

I attended the prayer Circle. While there Daniel Spencer told me that he met my Son Wilford in 
rush valley wallowing with his team through 2 feet of snow and thought he might perish. 

22 I started this morning for Rush valley to look up Wilford fearing that he might be in trouble. I 
rode to E. T. City. Preached to the people. Was vary lame with riding. 

23 I started for Rush valley. Got a short distance. Learned that Wilford was near by with Luke 
Johnson family. He soon came up. He had had a vary severe time. He had broke his way through 
35 miles of snow from one to two feet deep. Got lost in a storm. Travelled into the canyon. If his 
team had not been vary stout he and his team would have perished. The horses were nearly used 
up But I was glad to find my son and team alive. I took my team and Wilford my horse and 
returned to the City. 

The Brethren have not overtaken the indians. Wilford said that He herd Tabby a friendly Indians 
say that the Chiefs had been to the soldier Camp and Col Johnson or Hamy had told them that 
Brigham Young had \ 'T charmed their Children and they had died and Brigham Young wood kill 
them all. The Officers said that Joseph Smith was a great Captain and they Cut his head off easy 
and Brigham Young was a Small Captain and we will Cut off his head much easier and in this 
way they stired up the Indians to war against US. 

24 The whole City of the great Salt Lake is stired up and packing up for leaving. I spent the most 
of the day in the office packing it up &c. The Presidency and Twelve met in Council at the office. 
Meeting opened by Prayer by O. Hyde. I presented before the meeting the case of O. Pratt who 
did not believe in some of the teachings of President Young and thought Presidet Young had 
reproved him unjustly. The subjet was discused at length by the Twelve and President Young. 
Much instruction was given. At the Close Orson Pratt Confessed his faults and said that He 
would never teach those principles again or speak them to any person on the Earth. We all 
forgave him and voted to receive him into full fellowship. 

March 25 I sent about 70 bushels of wheat to E. T. Bensons Mill. I had an interview with Porter 
and he Came over to settle his rush valley difficulty. I then went to the office and spent the day 
packing up office matters. I was vary weary at night. We had a hard snow stonn in the evening. 

26th I felt unwell this morning. I packed up a Box of Books & then went to the office and spent 
the remainder of the day. 

/ 27th I finished my synopsis of History to day and read to G. A. Smith. 

28th Sunday I was unwell. I attended meeting at the Tabernacle. G A Smith LDY Presidet H. C 
Kimball preached in the morning, O. Hyde and Presidet B. Young in the Afternoon. I attended 


Pagel 14 




the prayer Circle in the evening. 

29th An Express came in this morning by Wm. Kimball saying the enemy are still detennined to 
Come in. Col Kane with Company is expeted in soon. I revised some of my History. 

30, 311 spent the time in the office and packing up for moveing. Brother Isaac Bullock took two 
loads of flour for me to Provo. 


April 

April 1st Thomas Roylance took 5 boxes flour 1,707 lbs. to provo. I spent a part of the day in the 
office. The Presidency] went to provo. 

2d I spent a part of the day in the presidents Office. The Calafornia Mail arived in the evening. I 
spent the evening in the Govornors office looking over the news which was much mixed. Many 
were opposed to the Utah war. 

3d The Presidency arived home this evening. I spent the evening with them. 

4th Sunday I attended meeting in the Tabernacle and the prayer Circle. 

5th Wm. Summerville took Sarah and Emma & Children and their things to provo. I spent a part 
of the day reading my history with G A Smith. I met with the Twelve in the evening and 
Dedicated the City Hall and had a good time. 

6th The Legion was Called out and the General Conference Commenced at 10 oclok in the 
Tabernacle. The Legion met in the Tabernacle with the Congregation & was addressed by 
President Young. The Conference Closed at night to give the people the privilege to Continue 
their labours in moving to the south. The "north is giving up and the south keeping not back." We 
are all vacating our towns and Cities and going into the southern settlements. We shall evacuate 
the City of the Great Salt Lake if needs be into the hands of our enemies or burn our habitations 
and lay waste evry thing we possess inasmuch as our enemies are Coming upon us and [are] 
detennined to destroy us because we are detennined to worship God and acknowledge his hand 
in all things. The rodes are lined with men, women and Children, teams and waggons all moving 
south. 

April 7th I spent the day in loading my waggons. I took one load of 4 secretaries in the historians 
office onto my waggons. 

8th I started this morning with 3 loads for provo two loads of secretaries and one of Goods. It 
soon began to snow and I rode 12 miles on a slow walk in the worst snow storm we have had this 
winter. I came near freezing my hands and I became so chilled I Could hardly move. When I got 
to Union ville the rode was lined with people and teams to Provo for 50 miles. Many suffered 
and some Came near perishing. Horses died by the wayside. Men unloaded their goods in the 
mud. Others took their team off and left their waggons sticking in the mud. Some teams gave out 


Pagel 15 




and whole families lay in the mud under their waggons over night. Women carried their Children 
in their arms and waided in water mud and snow knee deep. I stoped at Union ville and spent [the 
night] with sister Martecia Smith and was glad to get into a harbor. 

9th I spent the day at sister Smiths and it snowed and rained all day. 

10th I learned that the roads were impassible. I unloaded 2 of my waggons and left the other one. 
Took my teams and returned home to Great Salt Lake City. 

1 1th Sunday I spend the day in the tabernacle and heard the Presidency and Twelve preach. I 
attended the prayer Circle in the evening. 

12th * A. Cummings that would be Governor of Utah arived in this City to day with Col Kane 
accompanied by a small mormon Guard. When he saw the streets lined with people moving he 
said dont move you shall not be hurt. I will not be Govomor if you dont want me. The poor Devil 
should have thought of this principle before he started from home and not Come with an anned 
force to force himself as govornor upon a people who did not want him. 

I spent most of the day Choreing. I spent the evening at the presidents office in talking upon a 
variety of subjects. Among others orders had been given to the police to go and Clear the five 
acres lots of Cattle and the City lots whare they were doing damage on wheat, fruit and Gardens. 
They went with Josiah Hardy at their head and drove all of Presidents Youngs Cattle off from his 
pasture into the stray pound and mired two of his Cows so that they Could not walk. President 
Young told them if they would pay him two hundred dollars damage He would settel it. 

Otherwise he would put them through to the extent of the Law. 

13th 14. 15. 16, 17 I spent the week in moveing to Provo. On the 17th I drove my team home 
from Provo 50 miles through a hard rain storm. I took down the Historian office secretaries. 50. 

18th I attended meeting in the Tabernacle and prayer Circle in the evening. President Young 
Closed the prayer Circle as we were moving [away?]. 

April 19, 1858 I spent the day in preparing to move 3 loads to provo. 

20 I took up most of my Choice budded peaches, plums, Apricotts grapes &c and loaded them in 
Brother Wandles Carriage to take to Beaver. 

211 took two horse teams. Went to Jordons Mill. Got 47 bushels of wheat Ground. Went to 
Union ville and spent the night. My ox team took a ton on the wagon with Wandles Carriage tied 
to it. The Load was to heavy and tired out the oxen. Brother Wandle run them out of the road into 
a Creek with the fore wheels against a high bank then left the waggon brought the cattle to Union 
Fort and spent the night. 15 rail. 

22d I drove to provo. Arived at 10 oclock PM. 40 mils. 

23d I spent the day in Provo unloading and packing flour. I visited G A Smith spoke with H C 


Pagel 16 




Kimball and spent the evening with President Young at his office in the seminary. He had spent 
the day in hunting for a herd ground. 

24th Presidents Young and Kimball left provo early in the morning before 5 oclock. Arived in 
Great Salt Lake City at about 1 oclok having drove 50 miles in 8 hours. I left provo at 7 oclok. 
Arived in Great Salt Lake City at 5 oclok. Stoped an hour on the way. Drove 50 miles in 9 hours. 

I spent the evening at President Youngs Office which was full of the brethren. They spoke of the 
Indian attack at Fort Limhi. Said that Powel tryed to Justify himself by Giving the Brethren 
warning of the Attack. 

Kimball and Worthing returned from the Armey and reported to President Young what they saw 
and heard. They saw Stowel. He sent a letter home to his wife. Col Johnson Said it was Strange 
that the people in Utah Territory should think that he had hostile intentions in Coming into this 
Territory. President Young said Concerning this Anney whether the Lord intends us to whip 
them out or bring them to shame in some other way I do not know. 

When A Cummings got to Toille City On his way to Rush valley he found all the people 
Moveing. He said My God have I Come to late to stop all this moving and burning of property? I 
must stop the burning some how. 

We got a report that Col Kanes Father was Dead. It is also reported that Col Furney the 
Superintendent of Indians affairs will start for this City to day. 

25 Sunday I attended the meeting at the Tabernacle. Mr A Cumings? and Col Kane attended the 
meeting. Gov Cummings addressed the people. Professed to be our friend. Wished if any felt 
oppressed or wanted his proteotion to manifest it by vote and to write to him under sealed note. 

A vote was taken and 3 hands raised out of 3,000. Mr Cummings was answered in a masterly 
manner By Br Gilbert Clements. John Taylor followed but being vary hard and personal to Mr 
Cumings was Stoped by President Young, who also introduced Mr Cumings to the Congregation 
at the Commencement. 

I attended the prayer meeting in the evening. President Young said the family Altar was the same 
as an Altar in the prayer Circle. It is for parents and Children to Join hands over the Altar and 
pray. President Young said we have a report from the brethren who went into the desert and they 
have found a desert as we have been looking for. He said I told Hiram to make some thin boxes 
and put my windows in. Mark them so we may know whare they go for I should not think [it] 
strange if we used them in the same place. If the devil had all power I should not have any hope 
but would say Mr Devil go at it now and us up as soon as you please But I know Jesus Christ has 
more power than the Devil. I have rebuked the devil many times and he has obeyed me and many 
Elders in this when we have spoken in the name of the Lord. 

26th I loaded 3 teams and started for Provo. 

27 I arived in provo at night. 


Pagel 17 




28 We unloaded our teams. I spent the night in provo. 

29 I returned home to Great salt Lake City. Distance to & from 100 mis. 

30 & 3d- 1 spent the time at home. 


May 


May 1st I spent the day at home. 

2d I rode to Toille & spent the night at Brother Luke Johnsons. 

3d I had all my sheep sheared 38 in all 23 Ewes 15 weathes. I had 20 Lambs 7 weathes & 13 
Ewes. Total of sheep & Lambs 58. We had 106 lbs of wool. 22 weathes & 36 Eus. 

4 I returned home to the City. Distance to & from 50 mils. I spent the evening with the 
Presidency and Twelve reading the news by the mall. 

5th I loaded 3 waggons for starting for Provo. The President of the United States seems 
detennined on our destruction by sending armies to make war upon us but God will overrule it all 
for our good. 

6th I took Mrs Woodruff and her youngest Child and started for Provo with 3 teams. I drove to 
Dry Creek & Camped for the night. 

7th I drove to Provo & spent the night. 

8th I ploughed draged & planted about two acres of ground into sugar Cane & Corn. 

9th I drove 50 miles home to G S Lake City and spent the night. 100 mils. 

10th I spent the day in the City. Our messengers returned from the Army. Col Johnson Sayes he 
shall Come in the first of June & plant one post in Great Salt [Lake] City and one on Provoo 
bench. 

Presidet Young and G A Smith started for Provo last evening. Samuel Richards arived today. 
Presidents Heber C Kimball D. H. Wells & F D Richards accompanied Samuel Richards to 
Provo soon after He arived in the City to see President Young. 

He reports that the work of the Latter Day Saints was spreading in England. They had again 
opened the preaching places which had been Closed through persecution. He left the Mo river 
about the 3d of May. He saw no supply or trains or troops on the way but said Congress had 
passed a Bill giving the President power to raise four Rigments of volunteers to go against Utah. 
President Buchanan is detennined to do all in his power to destroy the Latter Day Saints from off 
the Earth and to stop their preaching the Gospel and worshiping God according to the dictates of 
their own Conciences. But this he will never accomplish however much he may distress the 


Pagel 18 




Saints. 


The people are all moving from the North Country. North to the South the rode is lined for 50 or 
100 miles from Box Elder to Provo with horse Mule & ox teams and loose cattle sheep & hogs 
and also men women & Children. All are leaving their homes including Great Salt Lake City 
resolving to burn evry thing to the Ground at the approach of the Enemy. The Lord will overrule 
all things right. I had an [ ]. 

1 1th I started with two teams for Provo. Camped on the way. I had an Interview with Col. Kane 
last evening & was introduced to Gov Cummings. I bid Col Kane good by and God speed. He 
will do us what Good he Can in a quiet way. 

121 arived in Provoo and spent the night. 

13th I spent the day in Provoo most of the day labouring. I spent a short time in the Historians 
Office with Presidet Young G. A. Smith A Carrington L Snow & other. G. A. Smith said my 
history was about ready to read if the Presidet wished to hear it. He said he did not Care about 
hearing it read ownly my Chapter of incidents which I read to him. 

14 I drove my team home to Great Salt Lake City in about 9 hours. 50 miles. Whole distance 100 
mils. 

151 spent the day in the City. I learned that Dr Clinton with several other Brethren had arived 
from their Eastern Mission. They were taken prisioners by the troops on Green River. They were 
released on bail of $4,000. The Army were hard up for food. They were deserting from ten to 
fifteen daily. 

16th Sunday I attended meeting at the Tabernacle. Dr Clinton spoke in the morning followed by 
Samuel Richards, & Presidet D H Wells. In the afternoon Daniel Spencer spoke followed by W 
Woodruff and E. T. Benson. There was about half a Congregation present. Brother Wells said 
there was to many people preset. He wished the people to leave the City during the week. 

17 & 18 I spent the time in loading three waggons. 

19th I started for Provo with three teams and it was the worst day to travel in I ever saw. The dust 
sand and gravel filled the air filled my face with it untill I Could not see at all and it was difficult 
to keep the road. 

20th I traveled to Provo bench. The air was filled with dust but not so bad as yesterday. 

2 1 I arived in Provo to day. Unloaded my goods. 

22d I went up Rock Canyon to get some polls to make pens. I found it the worst canyon for 
travelling in I ever visited. I Came near killing my horses but we got two loads and returned 
home. 


Pagel 19 




23 Sunday I spent the day in the Historians office. The people assembled for a meeting. O Pratt 
Presidet B Young spoke & A Lyman. In the afternoon O Pratt spoke. In the evening with G. A. 
Smith I visited Presidet Brigham Young at his habitation and also President Kimball. 

24 ? I met with President B Young & H. C. Kimball & O Pratt G A Smith A Lyman C. C. Rich 
A. Carrington Cummings Sprague and held an interview with two men from Niquiorgo as Agents 
from Mr Kenny owner of some thirty millions of Acres of land in the Musketoe Kingdom. They 
Come to make proposals to the Latter Day Saints to go and occupy that Country. After 
introduction the Conversation commenced upon the latitude Climate, soil, production &c. 
President Young said if Mr Kenny would give the Filbusterers every other sexti[le?] it would 
make him rich. Mr Cooper Replyed that Mr Kenny did not believe in that system. 

Presidet Young said the United States are determined to lay their hands upon all that Country. Mr 
Cooper said their is a treaty with England and the U.S. that Neither party Can take possession of 
that Country. B. Young said they Care no more about any treaty than a Horse does a spiders web 
in his way to his feed. They will break any treaty they please when they have the power. Now if 
you have any Proposals to make we will hear them. 

Mr Cooper said we would like to hear your proposals. B Young said I have no proposals to 
Make. Mr Kinneys rights & titles were discused. B Young said as far as I am Consemed I will 
say that if Mr Kenny owned all that Country & Mexico and would give me the whole of it I 
would not go there. Their would not but vary few from the Northern Country that would live 
their. J. V. Cooper thinks that we underrate the Climate. 

The Letters were read of introduction. 

G. A. Smith said by the time we have got their and spent several years in improving the Country 
the[re/n?] they would pour in by thousands and take what we have. Mr Cooper said I look at 
treaties different from what you do for upon that principle we Could have no Confidence in any 
Nations. 

B Young said Bless your soul I have more Confidence In the governments than they have. All 
they care about it is they want to get power & they will use it. What do the United States Care 
about the Constitution? Houper said they are doing away with the Constitution as fast as they 
Can. Their is no people in the Nation that Keep the Law as well as this people. Then what 
business had they to send annies here? None at all ownly because they have the power. But they 
will also want some power to maintain their armies when they get here. 

Mr Cooper said that He thought the Filbustering was at an End in that country. Presidet Young 
asked if Mr Cooper was acquainted with the political beat of the puls of the Governmet of the 
United States. He said he had observed a good Deal. B Young said they are intending to annex all 
North & South America as fast as they get the power. 

Mr Cooper said the Country was as Healthy as this. It Contains the Mountains Rolling, & bottom 


Page 120 




lands. There is a great amount of logwood, rosewood and all kinds of woods and fruits that grow 
in that Climate, sugar Cane indigo and all kinds of fruits grow spontaineously. 

B.Y. said that the US was so greedy to get territory they would soon burst up & ruin themselves. 
Mr Kinny sympathizes with us in our war but we have No war with any body. The United States 
are making war upon a little handful of men. They may make war as long as they pleas and if 
they drive us hard enough we will Show them fun. And their has not been a more imbecil 
Government on Earth than Presidet Buchanan has manifested during his administration. If he had 
set in his Chair and said not a word but remained as a monument and employed a Boy 10 years 
old to have done his business he would have manifested more wisdom than he has done. 

If you have any propisition to make to me I wish you to do it in writing but with a strict 
understanding that none of us will ever go to that Country. If we occupy that Country we will do 
it with people from other Country. 

They said they would make their proposition in writing. These remarks are ownly a sketch of the 
Conversations which passed. The men returned. 

Then the Speech of General Houston in the senate of the United States was then read. He 
defended the rights of the mormons and dare speak the truth and he is the ownly man in the 
Senate that dare stand up and defended the rights of the Inhabitants of Utah. 

The subject Came up relatives to the war. Edleex Williams said give me 50 men and I will meet 
10,000 men and stop all and if one gets in I will never Come back. A Lyman said take poisioned 
Arrows and shoot the stock and shoot at the stock & not the men all the time. President Young 
said if it is the volunteers that Come here they Come on purpose to kill the Monnons and I 
should be in for killing them as fast as we have a Chance. President Young told Mr J. B Cooper 
& James M. Harbin when they get to Calafornia to tell the people who seek our destruction that 
we ask no odds of them. They will yet see the day when they will ask aid and assistance at my 
hands. 

I spent the evening at the office and wrote a Letter to Mrs. W. 

25th I spent the day in the office upon my history. President Young spent the fore part of the day 
in the office. While speaking of Col Kane President Young said Col Kane did say to President 
Buchannan that he owed Gov Young an apology for sending an army to Utah in the way he did 
and persuing the Course he had towards the people of that territory and He should make that 
apology to Gov Young for President Buchannan and he was an agent sufficient to do it. 

We will never bow down to their opression. We will not have a mock trial over us. We will 
sooner apply to the mountains and then to the rifle, before we will do it. 

Col Kane is as good a Lawyier as we will find abroad and he sustained us in our Course and said 
that it was the Cream of Creams. You have taken the right Course and I want to have you keep in 
the right. I would not have had you taken any other Course for nothing. 


Pagelll 




President Young said this is the reason why we have let the army alone. Col Kane said I have 
feared all the time that you would Chew that whole Armey up. President Young said Gen 
Houston had it right when he said if you make war upon them you will get awfully whiped. But 
President Young Said Buchanan is determined that it shall be war and Nothing but war. He 
wished to be President now or never exspected to be. 

While speaking upon the subject of treason and being tried for treason, He Said to Hosea Stout I 
want to have you get all the testimony upon that subject you can together in the defence. I should 
show that I as the Governor of this Territory had a right to resist an armed force entering into this 
Territory In as much as the Presidet of the United States gave me no notice of sending an anny to 
this Territory or of removing me from office. Then Show that the Presidet of the United States 
had no right to make war upon any states or Territory upon mere rumour untill investigating the 
subjet. Now for the Presidet to make use of the language he did in that Early stage to employ 
spies. What use had they for spies when their was No war? Poor Devils they laid a plan to make 
war upon the people and not to make peace. 

Brother Box and Allen Called in to report what they found in researches?]. They saw they found 
good grass on the mountains but no water for stocks but in places Snow was 15 feet deep. They 
found one pocket large enough to hide all the people in Provo. 

Presidet Young said I will not be tried in a Court by our Enemies while under their power. It will 
be Settelled either amicably or by the rifle. 

Presidet Young sent a Letter to Gen D H. Wells. A Company of Apostates left for the enemies 
Camp. A man on guard at Echo Canyon left his post and went into the apostate Camp. Presidet 
Young said give him a pass and let him go with our Enemies. 

In the after noon with G. A. Smith I visited Presidet Young at his house. He wished me to buy a 
place near his place as we should move the Historian office near him. 

He soon Called at the Historians office with a proposition to sell us 30,000,000 acres of land in 
the Musketoe Country for 10 cts per acre one third to be paid down when we take possession of 
the Country & the remander to be in instalments annually with 10 per cts interest all to be paid 
within 10 years. The Presidet refused to purchase & wrote an answer accordingly. G. A. Smith 
read an account of Central America. 

26th I spent the morning in the office on my history. At half past 10 an express arived to Gov 
Young by Barlow. We went to see President Young. Met him Coming to the office in his 
Carriage. He brought us down to the Historian office. We met in the Office viz president Young 
G. A. Smith W Woodruff A. Lyman C. C. Rich A. Carrington Cummings, Bentley Campbell & 
D. Carter. 

The Correspondence between Gov Cummings & Johnson was opened and read. Gov Cummings 
said their was no organized troops in the Territory. Johnson said that it would be 30 days before 


Page 122 




he should attemp to Come in. Said he should not any further hender any Egress or ingress of 
postal or mail arangements but should soon send the mail in. One paper was sent the 9th of April 
but Contained nothing of importance. Presidet Young said I Can read them just as easy. 

The paper reports that the London times sends out a Correspondence with the army also the 
Herrald and times were sending out writers. They are sending out some 8,000 men or preparing 
to send them. The paper also inform us that two peace Commissioners will be sent to Utah. 
<President Young [told/said?] that if [-] comes in he ought to be put [-] the [city?].> Several 
peaces were read from the paper. 

I received a letter from C. W. Wandle. I wrote a Letter to him in reply. President Young [] } and 
G A. Smith Rode out and returned to the office in the aftemon. 

Mr Cooper Called also, and said that he was in the Musketoe Country 9 months and that he 
found it a good Country and would rather live theire than in any other Country. President Young 
said to Mr Cooper what Could Mr Kenny mean or think of us to send to us as he has? Does he 
think we are fools? The United States would give millions of dollars to have us go to that 
Country for then they could lay their hands upon us. I would not go to that Country if it was 
Covered 15 inches deep with gold and we owned it all. We are here and here we will stay in this 
Territory. He conversed one hour upon our faith policy and intentions. 

He said that President Buchanan was not a man to plan or lay wires or Chalk out the way for the 
prosperity of the Nation. If the whole Nation was boiled down into one man and he possessed the 
knowledge of the whole I could teach him the principle of Law and Government for I know more 
than the whole of them. President Buchanan has manifested the greatest folly in his official acts 
of any man that ever occupied the Presidential Chair. I know what the United States wish to do 
with us. They wish to kill us. But they [will] not accomplish their design. If they drive us to far 
then we be unto them. They will soon go to peaces. 

We had a hard rainy night. 

27th I spent most of the day in the office. Bovier came from the armey to Provo to day. Barney 
Ward Came with him. Said two Indians Shot Jim Cherokee & another man in a carrall and killed 
them dead. 

28th I left the City of Provo. Rode [to] Great S. L. City as did Presidet Young & Kimball (GAS) 
& A Carrington. I spent the night at my own habitations. The City looked deserted. But few men 
and far less women and Children in it. I found my orchard loaded with fruit strawburies begining 
to get ripe Currands loaded peach Apricotts & Aple trees bearing full. My houses mostly empty. 
Mrs Phebe W Woodruff & her daughter Bulah was all that occupied the house. 

29th I pruned my orchard & vineyard. Visited my Pasture. Found many poles Carried off. I 
visited the Presidet at his office and met with several of the brethren. 

30th Sunday I Called upon the Presidet in the morning. He was visited by Col. Clarkson, Maj. 


Page 123 




Brookie & Judge Cliff who talked with Presidet Young a short time. They Came on the same 
business that John V Cooper Came on to sell to the mormons the Mosquito Country. They visited 
the City our gardens & Orchards. Spent several hours at Brother Stanes. 

3 1 I Spent the day mostly packing up & loading my waggons. 

June 

June 1st I took my wife & Child and the last of my Effects & started for Provo. I left Robert to 
take Charge of the premises. I picked 3 quarts of Strawburies in my Garden before I left. I rode to 
willow Creek & Camped. 

2d I rode to Provo and spent the night with my family. 

3d I unloaded my waggons & spent a part of the day in the office. 

4 I Called upon Gov Young and spent a part of the day in the office. 

June 5th I spent the day in the office. 

6th Sunday I took my Horses & Carriage & took Elder O. Hyde to Pondtown & held two 
meetings. We organized the pondtown district into a ward and we Appointed A. O. Smoot 
Bishop and to preside over the people in that place. We had a good time and returned home in the 
evening. 30 miles. 

7 & 8th I spent the time hoeing Corn & sugar Cane. Brother Bean arived in the City on the 5 June 
and gave a report of their Journey on the Desert. He says the white mountains lie 150 miles west 
of Filmore. They explored the whole desert to near Carson valley all around to the rim of the 
bason. It is rather open to the north from ruby valley through. They found a great Cave in the 
desert which they explored some half a mile under ground. The longest place is about 50 miles 
without water. The Lower Beaver is one of the best rallies in these mountains. 

9th I went onto the mountain some 9 miles & got two loads of maple wood and passed up and 
down Hills so steep that it seemed almost impossiple to get up or down with animals. On my 
arival home which was an hour after dark I learned that the peace Commissioners wished an 
interview with the leading men and that the Presidency and 12 were going to the City in the 
morning. 

10th In Company with the Presidency and Twelve I left Provo at abut 4 oclok rode to the 
American fork. Took breakfast then rode to the City of the Great Salt Lake. Arived at about 3 
oclok. We stoped at Presidet Youngs Mansion. I took supper at his house but spent the night in 
my own house with Robert Scholes. I found my orchard both Apples, peaches, plums and grapes 
all hanging full of fruit. 

1 1th ^ ? The Presidency Twelve and many others met with the peace Commissioners in the 
Council House. Governor Powell a Senator Elect Hailing from Kentucky and Maj MCCullough 


Page 124 




from Texas were then introduced to the Assembly as the peace Commissioners sent by President 
Buchanan. Gov Powell spoke to the people & informed us what the Presidet wished at our hands. 
President Buchanan sent by them a proclamation accusing us of treason & some 50 other Crimes 
all of which was fals yet He Pardoned us for all those offences if we would be subject to the 
Constitution and laws of the United States and if we would let his troops winter in our Territory. 
He pledged himself that they should not interfere or infringe upon any City town or people of this 
Territory that he had no right to interfere with our religion, tenets, faith, or practices in any of our 
religion. 

The peace [commissioners] Confirmed the same. They did not wish to enquire into the past at all 
but let it all go but talk about the present & the future. 

Presidet Buchanan had made war upon us & wished to destroy us because of our religion 
thinking that it would be popular but He found that Congress would not Sustain him in it. He had 
got into a bad scrape and wished to get out of it the best he Could. Now he wants peace because 
he is in the wrong & has met with a strong resistance by a strong high minded people in these 
mountains which he did not expet to meet. We are willing to give him peace upon any terms 
which are honerable but not upon any tenns which are dishonorable to us. We know our rights 
and dare maintain them trusting in God for victory. The Lord has herd our prayers and the 
Presidet of the United States has been brought to a point whare he has been oblieged to ask for 
peace. 

When Gov Powel had Closed his remarks President Young spoke much to the point after which 
Erastus Snow D H. Wells & G Clements followed and all spoke vary pointed and plain. 
Expressed their detennined /<[-]>/ that their rights should not be infringed upon. At the close of 
the meeting which closed at 3 oclock the Presidency then met with the commishers in private 
Council till 10 oclok at night. 

12th A public meeting was again held in the Council house with the Commissioners Col Forney 
and the Presidency Twelve and a House Full of the Saints. They were addressed by John Taylor 
G A Smith & James Furguson spoke much to the point. Presidet Brigham Young then addressed 
the Saints and spoke in the power of God. Those Commissioners herd the voice & roar of the 
Lion. All the speeches were reported. At 5 oclok we herd an address from Governor Powell. He 
said all arangements were made. We should now have peace and he seemed to be much rejoiced 
at having peace. 

13th Sunday We left the City rode to the American fork took dinner then met in the afternoon 
with the saints in that place. President Young addressed the Saints. He said I will say a few words 
upon those subjects which we feel interested in at the present time. I feel interested in all things 
that Concern this people. Many want to know what will be the result of this Summers troubles or 
movements. The hand of God is visible in all things with us. He has brought us to our present 
position of peace and has hedged up the way of our Enemies. He spoke much to our Edifycation 
& was followed by Orson Hyde who wished the people to unite together and not Buy any thing 


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from the merchants or sell them any thing ownly by the advice of President Young. The meeting 
Closed & we rode to the City of Provo & spent the night. 100 miles. 

14th I spent the day in the offices of Presidet Young & the historians. 

15th Wilford Started home to day. The Peace Committee arived in Provo at 1/4 past 1 1 oclok. 

June 16th I spent the forenoon in taking Cows to D Carters pasture & visiting my Crops. In the 
afternoon I spent a short time in the office. Gov Powell Delivered an address before a large 
assembly of Saints male & female. The Authorities of the Church were present. 

At the Close of the meeting Gov Powell & Maj McCullough with Presidents Young & Kimball 
met with us in the Historians office & conversed abut the present Armey & war with the Indians 
&c for an hour. McCullough has been fighting Indians for some 25 years. 

17th We had a hard rainy night and is still raining this morning. This is quite uncommon this 
time of year in this Country. President Young feels rather Dubious that the United States 
Governmet will not Carry out their pledges towards us. 

18th I rode some 30 miles to day to find 7 Head of Cattle which Moroni lost yesterday. We found 
them. 

19th In Company with Brothers G. A. Smith C. F. 01ip[han]t we visited the main peach 
orchards in the City & we saw 33 Green tea plants growing in his garden which seeds he had 
picked out of imported tea. The plants had Stood the winter well. 

We then Called upon President Young Wells & Carrington at their office. It has rained nearly all 
day. We have never had as much rain in June as this year since we have been in these rallies. Col 
Johnson has made a proclamation to the Inhabitants of Utah upon receiving news of peace. 

20th Sunday The Eastern Mail arived this morning Bringing a few papers. They speake of Col 
Kanes arival & peace with the mormons. I attended meeting at the Bowery. Lorenzo Snow spoke. 
I followed him in the fore noon. In the afternoon John Taylor Spoke & was followed by President 
Brigham Young who delivered a Strong Discourse Concerning our present position. I spent the 
evening in the presidets office reading the papers. The Presidency Conversed upon a variety of 
Subjects. 

21st I spent the day in the office scraping. Mr Cooper called upon us. Wished to make another 
proposals to President Young Concerning the Mosquito Country. 

22d \ Brother Enoch Beese arived in Provo this morning with several others direct from the 
States. He Called at Gov Youngs office. In Company with G A Smith & A Lyman I called at 
Presidets Youngs office and I gleaned the following News: 1 10 of the missionaries Left the 
States the 3d of May. The Government had started 210 trains of supplies 26 waggons in a train 
total 5,460 waggons and over six thousand troops on the way but it was reported that they had 


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word to stop untill they heard from the peace Commissioners sent to Utah. 

He said when we left England we expeted to be taken prisioners when we reached the states but 
the way was open before them from day to day. When they passed forts Carney & Laramie they 
were overshadowed by a Cloud & dark mist so they passed unseen. 

We passed Johnsons Command & came into the road 12 miles below them in the Echo & Came 
Suddenly upon two Companies making a road. They asked us whare Johnson’s Command was. 
We replyed we had not Seen any thing of them. Whare did you come from then? We came from 
the States. We passed around the Anney. Are you not afraid of being taken prisioners? No their 
is not men enough in these mountains to take us prisioners. 

The Journey was harder than the hand Cart Journey for we had to take Care of our animals 
besides walking. They met Col Kane near the Chimney rock 13 days from our City. 

The people in the states are now for Stoping the war. The Current is strong against [the] 

President of the United States. Evry thing which he touches is a Curse to him. Our prayers have 
been answered in his behalf. He is devided in all his Councils and troubled by night & day and all 
good sense & Judgment is taking away from him. The times are worse in the United States than 
have been known for many years. Garrish wrote a Letter in the states Calling Gov Young all 
kinds of Bad names and done us all the injury he Could. 

The Brethren called at kirtland. Martin Harris had reorganized the Church in this place with 6 
members. Appointed Wm. Smith their Leader Prophet Seer & Revelator. In few days Harris 
drove Wm. Smith out of the place & damned him to Hell. 

A man Called upon Presidet Young. Said Arropene was vary sick & wanted some things. 

Joseph A Kelting Called upon the presidet to know if he might not Sell grain to the anney. 
Presidet Young said I dont want you to ask me any such Question. If you love the kingdom of 
God more than you do gold you wont trade with them or sell them wheat. I have sold them no 
wheat to sell them and this people should not sell their wheat but preserve it against the day of 
need. Many people have more interest in a little gold than in the salvation of their souls. Many 
other remarks was made by President Young. 

23d } [] I received 3 letters by the C[arters?] mail two from Ilus and one from Brother Thompson. 
I wrote two letters one to Ilus & one to Thompson & one to Robert & Wilford. I also received 
one from Robert & Wilford. Many of the missionaries arived in Provo to day John L Smith 
among the number. 

24th I spent the day in the office on the last revision of my history. O. Pratt A Lyman & G. A. 
Smith was in the office through the Afternoon. I mailed my letters for the east. We had much 
Conversation upon the Subject of being betrayed by the Government & their officers. We heard 
the merchants were angry because they Could not rent any houses in Great Salt Lake City. 


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25th I ploughed one acre of potatoes & other vegitable with a shovel plough. It was the first time 
I ever used a shovel plough. I felt vary weary at night. 

The Mail arived in G. S. Lake City from the East & brought word that Col Kane arived at 
Levensworth & telegraphed to Washington] & orders were sent back to stop the troops for 10 
days. It is also reported that there is a prospet of war with England in consequence of her 
searching American shiping. 

26th I spent most of the day hoeing potatoes. I spent the evening in the office. 

27th Sunday The anaversary of the murder of Joseph Smith. I Called at the Presidents office. The 
Eastern mail arived last night. Mr. MCElraith Called upon President Young with Letters of 
introduction from Dr Bernhisel. He walked to the meeting with us. He was a Merchant from New 
York. He took a seat on the stand. Two reporters for the London & New York paper set in front 
of the Stand & reported what was said. 

Brother Harvey Whitlock spoke in the morning. He had been in the Church some 28 years but 
had not been with the Church for the last 20 years. He spent most of his time in bringing 
testimony of the truth of Joseph Smith being a Prophet of God. He was followed by Presidet 
Young who spoke much to the edefycation of the people. He was followed by the following 
Missionaries: Philip Margetts & John L Smith in the forenoon in the Afternoon Isaac Higby 
Thomas Bullock James Taylor Ezra T. Clark. 

I spent the evening at Presidets Youngs office. He said I am sorry for the Anney & have thought 
of sending word for the Brethren in Great Salt Lake City for the brethren to sell vegitables to 
them. I have also had it in my heart when peace is esstablished to take all the Cattle Horses and 
Mules which we have taken from the army and return them to the officers. In speaking of the 
moving of the people out of G. S. L. City is there evil in the City and I the Lord have not done it? 
Is our movement an evil? No it is for our good. 

Presidet Young Said Harvey Whitlock spoke well but any man that would speak a few words in 
the power of God would do more good. 

Ezra Clark spent the night with me. He had the Chills & fever. I administered to him & blessed 
him. 

28 Luke Johnson & Benyon spent the night with me & left this morning & took with him our pet 
lamb. 

We had a small tragedy enacted in the tavern Joining me this morning The two reporters Filmore 
for the New York Herrald & Simonton of the New York times commenced a quarrel upon the 
subject of Slavery. Fillmore Stabed Simonton in the side with the small blade of a large pocket 
knife & made a wound about 1 1/2 inches deep. Then Fillmore went to his room for his pistol 
when one B[eck?]et took the pistol from him & shut him in his room which Closed the Contest. 


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The wound is not dangerous. 

I spent a short time in the Presidets office the remainder of the day in the Historians office. Gov 
Cummings arived in Provo in the evening. 

29th In company with G. A. Smith A. Lyman & S. M. Blair I called upon Mr Simonton who was 
stabed yesterday by Filmore. He seemed quite Comfortable. We repaired to the Historians Office 
& talked over Utah affairs & Johnstons Anney affairs. We then met at Capt Hoopers. President 
Young /and Council/ Governor Cummings & several of the Twelve & Conversed most of the 
forenoon upon the Indian affairs & other subjects. 

Mr Simonton came in & spoke of reporters. Said that it was the duty of a reporter to state facts 
just as they were But the Editors would then Handle them Just as they pleased. Sometimes they 
would turn them wrong side out & publish them Just Contrary to what the reporters stated. Gov 
Young Cummings Said the reporters Called upon him when they first Came in and introduced 
themselves to him and I told them I Considered them poor miserable Devils ready to lie about 
evry thing they see and from his own Confession here to day I Consider the publishers & 
reporters of News papers more Dispiseable than a Hoar house. For a woman is to be Despised 
who prostitutes her body but when man Prostitutes the most Noble part of man even his intellect 
& powers of mind to falshood & deception he is far more Despisable than a woman who 
prostitutes her body. Many remarks passed upon various subjects. 

Bishop Burton Came in and said it was reported that there was several Navahoes in the 
Neighborhood some 300 warriors in one of the Canions & it was feared they would make war. 
The Indians were vary savey. Had turned their horses into our wheat taken the pools to make 
wickeups off & was stealing horses & Shooting Cattle. Gov Cummings was going down to see 
them. 

I spent most of the day in the office. We wrote a Letter to Lyman Wight in answer to a Letter 
which he wrote to me. 

301 spent the day in provo. 


July 

July 1st to 24th I spent the time in moving my effects back to G. S. L. City & in Haying & 
harvesting. 

251 spent the day at the President Office most of the day. The Presidency wished the Twelve to 
get up a company each one of them to Form a Prayer Circle. The following are the names of the 
Company given to me to meet on Wednesday evening at the Endowment Room to Form a prayer 
Circle viz: 

Edward Hunter 
Leonard Hardy 


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J. C. Little 
A Hoagland 
A O. Smoot 
S. M. Blair 
E. F Sheets 
G. D Grant 
R. T. Burton 
Wm. H. Kimball 
Johnathan Pugmire 
R. L. Campbell 
/Wilford Woodruff jr. 

David O Calder 
Arza Hinkley 
John T Caine 
[ ] Willey/ 

I notifyed them to attend. During the Evening I called upon President Young with E T Benson & 
he wished the Twelve & some others to accompany him to the Big Cotton wood Canyon 
tomorrow night. 

26 During the After noon we had a hard shower of rain at about dark President 


B. Young Note(4) 

Niles Olsen 

H. C. Kimball 

A Moffat 

D. H. Wells 

J.W. Young 

0. Hyde 

Jas. A. Little 

0. Pratt 

Howard Stringham 

W. Woodruff 

Arza Hinkley 

J. Taylor 

W.H. Kimball 

E. Y. Benson 

Jas. Ferguson 

F. D. Richards 

R. T Burton 

E. Snow 

John Kay 

John Young 

Jos. A. Young 

L. D. Young 

Brigham Young Jr 

A. Carrington 

E. K. Hanks 

Fred. Kesler 

N.V. Jones 

P. H. Young 

J.R. Winder 

F. Little 

J.W. Cummings 

Stephen Taylor 

Frank B. Woolley 

B. Stringham 

H. B. Clawson 

R. Golden 

Seymour Young 

Jos. M. Simmons 

Nelson Empy 


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Wm Nixon 
Ed. Ellsworth 
John Y. Green 
Henry Heath 
Dan Johnson 
Jas. M. Barlow 


Chas. Decker 
Howard Spencer 
Lacy Stillson 
G Stringham 
Howard Spencer 
Hugh Mollwraith 


with 15 wagons, 56 horses & mules started for Big Cottonwood Kanyon, and camped up the 
kanyon a short distance and camped for the night. 

27th President Young and Company started early and drove to Mill C[reek] & took Breakfast. 
Then drove to the Lake the head waters of Big Cotton wood Canyon visiting the Mills as we 
went up. We spent the remainder of the day and night at this encampment. Prayer in the evening. 
J Taylor was mouth. 


July 28 At 9 oclok we moved down the Canyon to the 2d Mill & drove up the South fork one 
Mile & camped for the night. The Presidency & others walked up the Canyon about 1 mile to 
visit the Timber there being a vast amount of pine, Cotton wood, fir & Quaking asp in those 
Canyons. We had prayers & sung the songs of Zion during the evening. 

29th I arose vary unwell this morning with a Cold & sore throat. At about 9 oclok the Camped 
Started for home visiting the mills as we went down. Took Dinner at Ferrymore Littles and 
arived home at half past 6 oclok. I was quite unwell through the night. The president arived home 
in peace & safety it being the first time He has been out of his gates since he returned from 
Provo. 


30 I was quite unwell to day. Throat vary sore. I spent a part of the day budding & the evening in 
the Historians office. 

3 1st I spent the day in my house Confined to my bed with the Quinzy. My throat was vary bad. 

August 

Aug 1st Sunday I spent most of the day in my house. I Called upon Brother Carrington. He gave 
me the Albion Containing the latest News from New York & England. The British Nation was 
alarmed at the great arming of the French Nation. Several of the Twelve met at the Historians 
office for Prayers but went to Brother Bensons House. 

2d I was some better this morning. I called at the Historians office & at the Presidets office a 
short time. 

3d I was sick through the day. 

4th I was vary unwell. I called at the historians office. The Presidency was gone to the Island. I 
went to the endowment room & met with my Quorum in Prayer. I was sick and did not dress. 


Pagel31 




Bishop Hunter opened by prayer & A Hoagland was mouth. They laid hands upon me. I was vary 
sick & had a sick night. 

5, 6, 7, & 8th I spent this time Confined mostly to my bed with a severe attack of the Quinzy. 

9th I am better to day. I called at the Historians office. Then I Called upon President Young at his 
office. 

I found all the Presidency & several others there. Soon Mr John Hartnett Secretary came in. Was 
introduced to President Young & Company. It was the first time they had met. 

The following is a synopsis of the Conversation that passed between them. Col Allexander 
Called yesterday & had a short interview and it was vary agreeable. President Young said I was 
much pleased with him and am satisfyed that if he had the Sole Command of the Anney & I 
Could have had three hours Conversation with him all would have been right and they Could 
have Come in last fall as well as now. 

President Young asked Hartney how he liked the place. He said well ownly I dont like to go to 
Parawan to attend to the Legislature. It will be a pleasant ride for you through the snow. I had a 
plenty of that last winter. I went back to the states through the Snow. I have been Confined some 
10 years in the merchantile business and it was to close Confinement for my health. The Journey 
to this Country was an inducement for me to Come that I might have more exercise. 

Mr Hartnett asked if our difficulties were not all setteled. B.Y. Yes so far as they Can be as far as 
I know. I have been driven 5 times from my house and home without any Just Cause. This time I 
did not wish to be driven. The President of the United States has given us a good deal of Trouble. 
Buchanan Sent an armey to us & stoped all Communication with us by stoping the Mail then laid 
a plan for our destruction. 

Hartney said I did not understand it so. B.Y said what did you suppose they sent an armey for? 

He said to guard the trains and protect the people against the Indians &c. Did you not believe that 
we had burned the Court Records & broaken the United States Laws? He Answered I did. This 
was all fals. We have never opposed any good men who were attending to their own business. 

But I have alway taken the Liberty to speak my mind freely upon any subject or the acts of 
wicked men who would act outrageous. 

Hartney said that He did not think that presidet Buchanan intended to have the army fight. He 
told me when he found that there was to be war that He was not willing to have any Blood shed 
untill He had sent out Peace Commissioners sent to the people & try to make peace. 

President asked why did he stop the Mail without any Cause? They have stoped the mail several 
times when they were about to Commence a persecution upon us. They did it in Nauvoo. 
President Polk sent an Agent to demand 500 men of us in the wilderness & made arangements to 
have us destroyed if we did not Comply. Gov Bogs Agent told me that the mormons were the 
best people He ever saw and if they would mingle with the people and do as we do all would be 


Page 132 




well. But we did not feel disposed to do it and we were driven out of the state because of our 
religion. 

This Armey boasted all the while that they would kill our Elders & take the women & do what 
they pleased with them. Hartney said I Came with the army & did not hear such language as your 
people say was among them. No they would not say before you what they would among 
themselves. I want the United States to let us alone & let us mind our own business & keep the 
Laws of God & the Constitution of the United States as we always have done. Then our 
difficulties will be settelled as far as they Can be. 

But this people will not be driven from these mountains. We shall fight first. We do take the 
liberty to speak of the acts of men when they debase themselves by their acts, but this People 
hold the Constitution of the United States sacred. 

Now should I speak about Judge Eckles who Came & spent the winter in Green River Country & 
h[eld?] a mob [in the?] Court before he took the oath of office & brought in Bills of Indictment 
against thousands of Citizens who were innocent of Crime? Now if I was to speak about his acts 
they would accuse me of speaking against the Constitution of the United States & say I was 
guilty of treason. No man Can Justly find any fault with any of my official acts except the stoping 
of those trains and that I done to save the sheding of Blood. 

10th I Called at the office in the Afternoon. Called upon President Young in the evening with 
Broth Wheelock & spoke to the presidet about Holding publick meetings on the business of the 
Agricultural Society. He did not wish meetings Called upon any subjet. 

H C. Kimball went with me to the Historians office. He said the Judgments of God would follow 
the Nations as the gospel had gone. We should have good peace for two years. What would 
follow time must determin. 

1 1th I spent the day in the office. Attended the prayer Circle at 6 oclok. 

121 spent most of the day in the office Reading history. I Called upon Presidet Young. He was 
soon visited by Secretary Hartney and several Military officers who were introduced to President 
Young & the Company Present. They Conversed upon a variety of subjects such as the weather, 
wood water, Coal, Roads, the production of [ ] the stinkage of the wood snows, destination of 

the Armey, &c &c. H C Kimball & A Carrington Came in. Was introduced. The names of the 
men were Capt Bryan, Lieut Bristol Lieut Rich, Lieut. Kensel. 

131 spent most of the day in the office on history. I Called upon President Young. Brother 
Kimball was present. He President Young was talking to John Clawson upon the subject of 
making powder. He told him he Could make it as well as not. We Can get salt Peter in abundance 
here. He told him to go to work & make it & to make soap. He said he had read my history twice 
& must read it again. 

141 spent a part of the day in the Historians office & a part in Presidet Youngs office. He went 


Page 133 




up City Creek Canyon. 


Aug 15 Sunday I spent most of the day in the presidents office in looking over the papers & 
listening to their Conversation. H C Kimball Joseph Young & several others were in. Soon 
Harvey Whitlock Came in when the Conversation turned upon a variety of subjects. Harvy 
Whitlock is a Doctor of the old school. 

President Young said that good and bad men will act out what is in them But God Contrails all 
the acts of men. When Col Kane Came to visit us He tried to point out a line of Policy for me to 
persue but I told him I should not turn to the right or left or persue any Course ownly as God 
dictated me. I should do nothing ownly what was right and when he found that I would not be 
influenced ownly as the spirit of the Lord led me he felt discouraged & said he would not go to 
the armey. But He finally said if I would dictate he would execute. I told him as he had been 
inspired to Come here he should go to the armey and do as the spirit led him to do and all would 
be right and he did so and all was right. 

He thought [it] vary strange because we were not afraid of the armey. I told him we were not 
afraid of all the world. If they made war upon us the Lord was able to deliver us out of their 
hands and would do it if we did right. God Contrails all of these matters. 

Now when the armey was Coming here there were many Indians who Come here and wanted to 
fight the soldiers. I would not Employ them. This made many of them mad and they Joined the 
soldiers and wanted to fight us. If they had Commenced war against the United States it would 
have been a general war. They would have destroyed the western Cities. 

Br Kimball said that Col Kane asked what would be the result if he spoke against the Mormons. 
Brother Kimball told him his mind would become Barren and he Could not do any good but 
would droop & die away. But as long as you will stand up for the truth you will be fruitful and 
feel well. Elder Kimball said that the day would Come when our boys who are now riding around 
the street will be inspired to do some of the greatest things you ever heard of. 

The Subject of the three Esstates was spoken off. Br Kimball said that he believed that those who 
were valiant in the first esstate would be in this & would be Crowned in glory in the next. The 
day is at hand when things will be done here on Earth as it is done in heaven. Then Enoch will 
Come and fall upon our necks & we upon his & we shall kiss each other. 

The subject of the Church farm Came up. President Young said I want the fann to accomodate 
me more than it ever has done for I have furnished all upon that farm except the making of the 
fence & the Church has Charged me with thousands of Dollars for eggs Butter & various things 
from that farm which belonged to me. 

I attended the prayer Circle with the 12 at Brother Bensons. I opened by Prayer & E. T. Benson 
was mouth. 

16th I spent the fore part of the day wattering Garden & Cutting up Courant Bushes & the 


Page 134 




afternoon in the office. 


I Called upon President Young. He was vary Cheerful. Brother Kimball had a dream which He 
told. He dreamed the City was full of Hogs who appeared mad. They were foaming & frothing at 
the mouth. They tried to bite him but he found their mouths was tied up and they Could not bite. 
He got up onto a wall to get away from them & when he Come to look around to see whare they 
were and he Could not see one in the City. They had all gone away vary suddenly. 

Furguson said that forty men went out under Lieut Lee to Chastize the Indians from Fort Bridger. 

President Young said the Indians will ketch it yet. I want Enmity put between the wicked & the 
wicked. I do not Care one Groat about the whores who will go to the anney. They will not serve 
God or keep his laws and they may go to Hell. The people will prove themselves to be either 
good or Bad before the Lord. 

17th I Called upon Brother Hemingway early in the morning to get some summer fruit buds to 
bud my orchard. I Called at the tithing office. <Brother Winters came and castrated> 4 <of my 
[bucks?] [-] and [— ] in the [-].> 

At 1 1 oclok A portion of the United States troops arived in the City of the Great Salt Lake from 
the East. They were recruits to fill up the Armey Now in Utah their was about 300 troops & 
about 50 waggons. They passed by President Youngs mansion and the temple Block turned North 
on the west side of the Temple Block. They halted & rested under the temple wall a short time. 
An old gray headed man with a long beard [came] in a one horse veacle. He was some officer of 
the Armey. It was reported that it was General Hamey but this was a mistake. 

I spent the evening in the office Journalizing. Elder Taylor called in a short time. 

1 8th I spent the morning in making grafting wax & puting it on to my trees & the remainder of 
the day in the office. I Called upon President Young in the forenoon and found him well. I 
attended the prayer Circle in the evening. 1 1 were present. G. D. Grant opened by Prayer & E. F. 
Sheets was mouth. I herd it reported that the Indians stole all the Cattle from one Government 
train & shot at them. 

Aug 19th I went to the office at 10 oclok. I spent the remainder of the day in the office. I Called 
at the Presidents. He said I have read your Chapter of Accidents again today. I said I shall soon 
begin to think you are making fun of me. He replyed Nosiree. 

I looked over the Account of Br Sims which he keeps in the presidents office & found that he 
keeps vary good Account. 

20th I spent the forenoon unloading three wagons Containing large Boxes of flour & assisting my 
men to get off again. Mrs Woodruff went with them to Provo. I spent the Afternoon in the office. 

21st I spent most of the day in the Historians office. The Eastern Mail arived in the morning. 


Pagel35 




I Called in the Presidents office & looked over the papers & at about 6 oclok Brother Simon 
Baker was brought up on trial Before Bishop Hunter and Council the Presidency] were all 
present. Broth Baker was tried for whiping one of his wives vary severely. He had married two 
Sisters the daughters of James Staples one about 5 years ago, the other about two years. She had 
been the wife of Andrew Hooper. Brother Baker had Quarrels with his wives & Children almost 
daily & Ann was about to leave him but before she left Baker had some words with her and then 
he beat her on each side of her head with the flat side of her hand untill the Blood run out of her 
ears and one Eye was vary black. She gave her testimony about the whole affair. She said he 
struck her as though he was going to knock down an ox. He struck her about 10 times on the side 
of the head. In telling the Story they talked back and forth & made Cross statements. 

Betsey was then Called upon to give her statement but she did not wish to talk. Her Father James 
Staples told his daughters to tell the truth without any regard to any body and said she had 
entered many Complaints to him against Baker and if she now would not tell the truth & tell the 
thing as it is he did not wish to have her Come home hereafter with a tale of wo. But she would 
not talk much. 

President Young then said Betsey I want you to tell the truth and not keep any thing back. You 
will be wanting a Bill by & By from Baker & if you dont tell the story now I dont want you to 
Come hereafter with a tale of sorrow. Still she did not feel like talking. I dont want to have you 
leave Brother Baker if you do not wish to but I do not wish you to Come home here after with a 
tale of Complaint. Your place is to talk now. 

Still she said but little. She acknowledged that Brother Baker took her off from the Bed and 
slaped her <bottom> But did not hurt her but said he had whiped her Sister hard. 

But as she would not talk Brother Baker was kalled upon to tell his story which was some what 
lengthy. He acknowledged whiping his wife but said he was not mad but timed his blows 
according to the strength of her head. Said he was willing to abide by the decision of the Council. 

President Young said that if this woman was subject to desease these blows would probably Cost 
her her life. If he had treated me in this way I would have Cut his throat, and there is many 
women who would have done it. I would not trust a dog with Brother Baker or put one in his 
Care for he does not know how to treat either man or beast. I have women in my family that 
would have killed Brother Baker in a moment if he had treated them in the way he has Ann. But I 
govern my family by kindness. I tell them what is right & I get them to obey me without whiping 
them. If I cannot get my family to do as I wish them without Quarreling with them I will not say a 
word about it. President Young said to Baker Betsey will Come to me for a Bill if you do not 
take a Different Course and she will have a long hard story to tell. 

After all had told their story the Parties was dismissed & the Council met to give in their 
decision. President Young said to Bishop Hunter Come give in your decision as to Brother Baker 
tempering his Blows. He does not know any thing about it. He is not fit to punish a dog. "He is 


Page 136 




vary rough & vulgar in all his talk in his family. I suppose he is worth $10,000 Dollars. He said 
what if I was to take that Course with my family or you? What would be the consequence? We 
should have No families. All his wives & Children will leave him if he does not take a Diferent 
Course. 

The Decision of the Bishop & Council was that Brother Simon Baker be separated from his wife 
Ann & that he Pay Eight hundred Dollars for her & her children support to be paid forth with in 
stock to be prized by Edward Hunter & Bryant Stringham to be placed in the hands of Bryant 
Stringham for safekeeping & that Said Baker be Gut disfellowshiped from the Church of Jesus 
[Christ] of Latter Day Saints and that all the Clothing of the Children be given up to them. 

22d Sunday I Called upon sister Smith in the morning and at Presidents Youngs at noon & 
looked over the Papers & at 2 oclok I met with the board of Directors at Bishop Hunters & set 2 
1/2 hours. I then went to Brother E. T. Benson & met with the Twelve in the Prayer Circle. I then 
returned home & watered my garden till 12 oclok at night. 

23d I spent the forenoon in the office Journalizing. I Called at the Presidents office in the 
evening. 

24th I spent the day drawing wheat in my field. I received an invitation from President Young to 
go to a party in the Big Cotton wood on the 26. 

25 Aug I Called upon President Young in the morning & spoke upon the Loss of the Deseret 
Alphabet manuscript. I met with A P Rockwood & Samuel Richards as the inspecters of the 
Penetentiary to make out Documents to send to Washington. I attended the prayer Circle. 

26th I took a portion of my family & went into the field to prepare for threshing my wheat. G. A. 
Smith arived home to day. The presidency with many others had a party in the big Cotton wood 
Canyon. I had an invitation but Could not attend. 

27th I spent the day threshing with Brother Smoots Machine. G. D. Grant & Thomas Williams 
had a fight to day. G. D Grant got Badly whiped. It is said that he provoked the fight. 

28th I spent this day threshing. Was vary weary. 

29th Sunday I spent the day in the City. I Called upon President Young. All the Presidency were 
present & several of the Twelve among whom was G. A. Smith. President Young received 
several Anonomous letters giving him Council about sending out Elders into the world. I met 
with a portion of the board. I met with the Twelve at Br Bensons in a prayer Circle & spent the 
night at home. 

30 I spent this day threshing. I finished my wheat & assisted Br Job Smith to thresh his. I had 393 
Bushels of wheat 250 bushels of white taos without smut & 143 bushel of white Club about 1/4 
smut. I find the white taos much the most Profitable. Capt Hooper & John Pack had a fight but 
neither was hurt. 


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3 1st I spent most of the day securing straw & chaff. In the evening I returned to the City Called at 
President Youngs & spent some 2 hours. 


September 

Sept 1st We had another fight in the streets to day between two Negroes. One was cut on the 
head with a knife the other was shot dead. 

I spent the most of the day in my orchard. I spent a short time in the Historians office. 

I met with my Quorum in the prayer Circle. There were 10 present. I spoke a short time by way 
of exertation to the brethren. I told them as we were surrounded by the wicked Gentiles who were 
filled with wickedness and sought our destruction that we were much exposed & should be upon 
our guard & magnify our Calling and maintain our Dignity before all men as Saints of God & 
Elders in Israel & not mingle or drink with the wicked. If we have business with them let us do it 
& go our way. I feel ashamed before the Lord that any man that holds a station like Br George D 
Grant should stoop so low as to create a fight with Thomas Williams as he did and to mingle and 
drink with the wicked. There is silence in Zion. No warning voice in the streets or in the 
tabernacle of the Lord. Evry one is left to go his own way and many are turning away from the 
Lord. And in this hour of temptation and darkness it is our duty to live our religin & to set a good 
example before all men & watch & pray that we enter not into temptation. 

I spent the evening at home with my family. 

2d I spent the morning in budding my peach orchard. I spent the remaining part of the day in the 
Historians office revising history. I spent the evening with President Young in company with G. 
A. Smith H. C. Kimball & D. H. Wells & others till 9 oclok. 

3d I went to the office at 10 oclok. We received a Letter [] from W W Phelps on a historical 
Correspondence. I spent the day in the office on History. I spent the night from 1 1 oclok till 6 
watering my Garden. 

4th I arived at the office at 10 oclok and spent the day on History. 

5th Sunday The Eastern mail arived this morning & the Calafomia Mail last evening. I spent a 
part of the day at the presidents office reading papers. The latest Telegraph dispatch sayes that 
one end of the submareine telegraph line was successfully laid to Newfoundland. Their was not 
much news. I attended the prayer Circle in the evening. I opened by prayer. G. A. Smith was 
mouth in the Circle. We had a Cold windy Rainy day. 

6th I went to the office at 8 oclok & spent the day on the History. It was a vary Cold day. A 
Company of 150 Draggoon under Capt Haws camped for the night south west of the City. They 
are on the way to the Goose Creek Mountains to try to Chastize the Indians for robing the mail. 

* 


Pagel38 




7th I called at the office at 9 oclok & spent the day on Compiling History. Brother A. R. Wright 
Called upon me & informed me that He would bring on goods for me or any one for the first cost 
& 15 cts per lb for freight. He says any letter will Reach him at Cincinnati until the 1st Jan 1859 
afterwords at Philadelphia till April 1st. Any money sent to him in Government Drafts from the 
Armey or Fomey will be good But Gilbert & Garrish would be dangerous. Would rather trust 
Perry. Livingston & Kinkade would be uncertain. We had a slight frost. 

8th I spent the forenoon at home afternoon at the office. I attended the prayer Circle. R. T. Burton 
opened by prayer & L. W. Hardy was mouth. 

Sept 9th I spent the day in the office Compiling History in the office. In the Afternoon Mr 
Cooper Called upon us. He had been to Calafomia. Spent but few days then returned to this City 
with the mail. He has sold the Misquetoe Country to Mr [ ] who is intending to buy several 

ships & load them with Men, machinery, & tools to erect mills for sawing mahogany load his 
shiping go to england & take emegrants free to that Country to settle it. 

Mr Hardin soon Came in and said that he was driving over 2,000 Head of Cattle to Calafomia. 

Mr Cooper said that the people of Calafomia are about laying a telegraph line from Calafomia to 
Great Salt Lake City. 

10th I learned this morning that there was another Row on East Temple street last evening. Two 
Gamblers shot each other. One was shot dead. The other had a Ball in his head & one in his 
thigh. Another man was found dead in a woodpile. He was a Draggoon who was unmercifully 
beat a few days ago by a Lieut. 

Thus we have the fruits of Christianity & Civilization as manifest in the world introduced into 
our Territory. Untill the armey and its attendants arived here we had no such scenes manifest in 
our midst. The priests and people & the whole Government of the United States have tried hard 
to introduce those evils in our midst which are so common in almost evry City throughout the 
Gentile world & they have now accomplished it for a season & their is hardly a day passes but 
their is dmnken[ess?] Gambling, swearing fighting & murder in the midst of the Gentiles in our 
streets. 

I spent the day in the office writing Letters & Compiling History. I wrote 3 letters one f to Ozem 
T. Woodruff & one to sister Shuah Moulton } and one to Dr J. M. Bernhisel. I Requested Br 
Bernhisel to send me 1 Bale of Cotton yarn 20 or 25 Bunches [of?] peaces of good sheeting 6 of 
Hickary & 6 of prints, 1 doz Reeds or stays for weaving of the following Numbers: 4 of 500, 2 of 
400, 3 of 600, 1 L Reed 1 1/4 wide of 600 1 L Reed 1 1/4 wide of 700. Also 5 lbs of good Indigo 
1 sack of sugar 100 lb & 1 sack of Coffee. These letters was sent by H S Eldridge. I sent 5 copies 
of the News to Ozem T Woodruff & 5 to Father Ezra Carter Containing my History. 

1 1th I spent the day in the office on History. 

12th Sunday I spent the forenoon at the Presidents Office with the Presidency & 12 in looking 


Page 139 




over the papers by the Eastern Mail which came in this morning. Not much News ownly the 
laying of the submarine Telegraph from England to America the depth of the sea averageing 
about 3 miles. It was successfully laid & all the Eastern States was Having a great day of 
rejoiceing. 

I spent the afternoon with the Board of Directors, preparing for the state fair. I met with the 
Twelve at 6 oclok for prayer. E. T. Benson Prayed. F D Richards was mouth. 

Sept 131 met at the office at 1/2 past 10 ock & spent the day Compiling History. 

14th At half past 8 oclok Col Morrison passed through our City at 9 oclok with 4 Companies of 
the 7th Ridgment & one company of recruits & 32 draggoons with abut 50 vary poor Horses. The 
Animals looked worn out. They went through in vary good order. Col Morrison admired the City 
much. I spent the day Compiling History. 

14 [75] Col Morrison passed today instead of yesterday. I spent the day on History. I spent the 
evening at President Youngs. 

15 Judge Eckels leaves this City this morning for the states. Good ridance. I bought a large 
waggon this morning of Capt Hooper. I spent the day Compiling History. 

16th I spent the fore part of the day in meeting with the Rush valley Herd Company. We all 
agreed to Join together in taking herds in that valley bear equal Chance & share equal in all 
expenses & profits. We apointed Claduas Spencer as our Agent in this matter to collet Cattle & 
Luke Johnson as our agent in the South part of the valley. 

I spent the afternoon on History. One of my sows had a litter of pigs 9 in number and doing well. 

17th I sent off 2 yoke of Cattle 2 Cows & 1 calf this morning to Fort Harriman. The police 
meeting at the social hall presidents Yard. President Young gave them a good lecture last 
evening. I spent the day revising History. 

1 spent the evening with President Young and O Hyde & D. H. Wells at President Young. O 
Hyde asked the privilege of a Herd ground in Killions Canyon for a dairy & to trade with the 
Emigration &c. President Young advised him to go over Jordon half way to the west mountain & 
dig a well but seemed Quite urgent that He should not go into the Canyon to take any of his 
women there. Still Brother Hyde seemed Quite inclined to go. 

18th We had a hard wind & blew of much fruit & broke some of the trees. I spent most of the day 
in the office on history. We are now in the midst of burning of morley settlement by the mob & 
the scenes which followed. The Mail Came in about 3 oclok. 

19th Sunday I Called upon the President in the morning. Looked over the papers till 12 oclok. At 

2 oclok I attend a meeting of the Agricultural Board. We visited the social Hall to see if it would 
do for the fair. I attended the prayer Circle with the Twelve. All the Twelve were present except 


Page 140 




Lorenzo Snow & Orson Hyde. C. C. Rich opened by Prayer &A Lyman was mouth. 

20th I had some conversation with Br Fox about the Land down the Jordon. I spent the day 
Compiling History. My men came home with Both waggons broke down one ox & a pair of 
Hounds. 

Sept 211 spent most of the day Compiling History. I visited Brother Heywoods peach orchard & 
A Carringtons with the Twelve G.A.S & A. Lyman & the hands in the office. 

22 I spent most of the day revising History. I attended the prayer Circle in the evening. Bishop 
Hoagland Prayed & I was mouth. 

23d I spent the day compiling History. 

24th I spent the forenoon Compiling History. I Called upon the President & Presented him with 
some peaches & seedling grapes also Professor Carrington. President Young took us all through 
his orchard. Their is not an acre of Ground in this Territory Producing as much fruit as his 
Garden. He has a great amount of peaches. It is thought 100 bushels of peaches 200 Bushels of 
Apples 10 of Blak walnuts, & 1 ton of Grapes, a great amount of strawburies & other vegitables. 

I called to see Brother Oliphant. He Called to see me yesterday. Wished to get some peaches to 
go to the Camp to sell. I let him have 2 Bushels. He had a wild pair of Mules. When he had got 
about 3 miles on the State Road a dog frightened his mules. They run with him broke the tongue 
then Jirked him head foremost out of the waggon. Dislocated his sholder & bruised his face 
badly. He was brought home & his shoulder set. He is quite poorly to day. 

Mr MCNeal was tried today before the Mayor of this City for threatening life. He drew a pistol 
on Burton & on Candland. He was fined $50 & imprisioned three months. 

25th I spent the day Compiling History. 

26th Sunday At 10 oclok I met with my Quorum at the Endowment Room. A. O. Smoot Prayed. 

E F. Sheets was mouth. I spent the remainder of the time till 2 oclock with President B. Young 
/council/ looking over the papers which came by Eastern Mail yesterday. At 2 oclok I met with 
the Board of Directors. At 4 oclok I met with Presidents B Young H C Kimball D H Wells And 
G A Smith in President Young upper Room for Prayers. B. Young Prayed & H C. Kimball was 
mouth. President Young requested the Twelve to meet at the Historians office for their prayer 
Circle instead of Brother Bensons. 

The following Dream was related which President Young [had] on Friday night Sept 24, 1858: 

He dreamed that 4 men came into his room and tried to get in. He tried to shoot them with his 
pistol but Could not get it off. He then drew a Bowie knife but found it to be a Carving knife with 
a saw on one side. At the same time Mr Clarkson reached over his shoulder & drew a large 
Bowie knife from between his shoulders & attempted to kill Presidet Young who said to him you 
may think that you are going to do sumthing but I will show you. He then threw his saw knife at 


Pagel41 




Clarkson & Just as it was about to enter his body Brigham Young reached out his hand Caught it 
so that it did not hurt him saying at the same time you now see what I Can do. Clarkson said I see 
that my life is in your power. At the same time he plunged his knife into his own breast & split it 
open then handed the handle of the knife all Bloody to B. Young & walked a short distance & 
fell dead. 

* * [ The asterisks are Woodruff's .] (<President Kimball said that he did not want the> 12 <to 
pray at Bensons for he did not want them to go to a [-] house. President Young said that he did 
not know but Benson would [-] have wives that would home [-].>) 

At 6 oclok I met with G A Smith O. Pratt J Taylor C C Rich & F. D. Richards of the Twelve at 
the Historians office for Prayer. O Pratt Prayed. W.W. was mouth. I spent the night at Home. 

27th I spent the day Compiling History. Bulah was quite sick. I administered to her and she 
began to recover. 

28th I was unwell this morning. Bulah was better this morning but had a high fever in the 
afternoon. I spent the day Compiling History. 

29th Bulah had a vary sick night & is vary feeble this morning. I Called upon President Young. 
Zina Young went with me to my house to see my sick Child. 

30th I spent half the day Compiling History. Bulah is some better to day. I took some things to 
the fair to day. 


October 

Oct 1st A windey day. I spent the day Compiling History. 

2d I spent most of the day assisting about the Deseret State Fair. 

3d Sunday At 10 oclok I met with my Cuorum at the Endowmet room. Bishop Hunter Prayed. 
Wm. Kimball was mouth. I spent a part of the day at the Presidents office. President Young is 
quite sick also Brother Kimball. He was taken Quite sick & was administered to by Brother 
Young who was siezed with the same. I attended the prayer Circle with the Twelve their being 
present O. Pratt W. Woodruff G. A. Smith C. C. Rich F. D. Richards & E Snow. W. Woodruff 
Prayed. G. A. Smith was mouth in the Circle. I spent the evening in the Fair. 

4th Robert Commenced teaming with Wm. Kimball. The Deserett State Fair opened at 10 oclok 
to the public. We had many visitors through the day. 

5th There were many visiters at the fair through the day. The Govomor, Secretary, Judge & 
others persons were invited. At 2 oclok they Came & visited the place & we provided a feast of 
fruit for them. They partook vary Hartily & appeared vary well satisfied. The House was crouded 
through the day. 


Page 142 




Oct 6th A Conference of the presidents of the various Quorums, Bishops, & Councilors 
assembled in the Tabernacles on the Temple Block. Meeting opened by singing & Prayer by 
President Joseph Young. Daniel H. Wells addressed the meeting & was followed by G. A Smith 
O. Hyde, O. Pratt, Joseph Young, A Lyman & Wells. 

7th The Conference was addressed by Joseph Young. John Taylor, W. Woodruff E. Snow, & D 
H Wells. Much good council was given. The subjects treated upon were sellng Grain to the 
armey also spiritus Liquors keeping the Commandments of God & living their religion. The fair 
continued through the day & Closed at night. 

The Conference Adjurned till the 13 Nov 2d Saturday in Nov. I spent the evening with the board. 

8th I spent the day at the office making out a report of the Fair. It was a rainy night & Cold. 
Wilford was at Fort Harriman. 

9th Robert started for Camp Floid with 3,090 lbs of Fruits. I spent most of the day in the office. 
Gov Cummings visited us in the afternoon & held a Consultation with D. H. Wells & others 
upon the subject of the meeting of the Legislature. He thought it best to have us meet at Filmore. 
We thought it our duty to meet at this City as the Fegislator made this City the seat of 
Government & adjourned the Legislator to this city. Gov Cumings thought it illegal because it 
was a Joint resolution of both houses but the seat of Government at Fillmore was esstablished in 
the first place by a resolution and if our last act is not legal the first is not hence we have no seat 
of Government at all. Govornor Cumings agreed to Consider the matter & report. I went to bed 
sick at night. 

10th Sunday I was quite poorly this morning. Did not attend my prayer Circle. The Eastern Mail 
Came in. I spent a part of the day in Presidents Youngs office and herd the papers red. While I 
was there President Young announced to Brother A Carrington that he had become a Grandfather 
that his daughter who had married his son Brigham was just Delivered of a fine son. I met at 6 
oclok at the prayer Circle of the Twelve. E T Bensen Prayed & John Taylor was mouth. 

1 1th I am sum better this morning. I spent half a day in the office the remainder of the day 
preparing to go to provo. 

12th I went to Provo and spent the night at A J Stewarts House whare I found Robert Scholes. 50 
mils. 

13 & 14 I spent the day diging potatoes. 

Oct 15 1 spent the day diging potatoes. Met with the 70" in the seminary in the evening. G A 
Smith preached. I followed him. 

16th I spent the day husking Corn. I spent the evening in the prayer Circle. 

17th Sunday I met with the People at 2 oclock. I preached to the people. Was followed by G A. 


Pagel43 




Smith. In the evening G A Smith & myself attended the Bishops & Presidents prayer Circle. 

18 Wilford started home with the team. I attended the prayer Circle with G A Smith. 

19, 20, 211 spent the time in provo. I visited several sugar Cane molasses making 
esstablishments two by water & one hors power. The Cane is mostly damaged by frost. 4 gallons 
of Juce that was ripe made a gallon of molasses but that which was green & frozen it took 8 & 10 
gallons for one of Molasses. 

22d I started for home with my team Robert & Delight. I settled my business in Provo before I 
started I got 3 gallons of Molasses from one acre the remainder destroyed by frost & Cattle one 
Acre of Com destroyed except 8 bushels. I had about 150 lbs of flax & 50 bushels of potatoes. 

I traveled to Lehi & spent the night at Bishop Evans. I Collected 10 bushels of wheat which was 
due me for trees. Brother Evans treated me vary kindly. He showed me 500 bushels of tithing 
potatoes. He had about 1,000 Bushels of wheat of his own. 

He said he had not sold a Bushel of any Grain to the anney. An Officer told him that A Council 
of Doctors had decided that the army was in an unhealthy situation & most of the officers were 
going to the states on furlough & in the spring He thought most of the armey would leave in the 
spring. 

23d I started for home. I met several Government trains on the way. I stoped at Union ville & 
collected several bushels of wheat, which I left at Chases Mill & arived home at 9 oclok P.M. 50 
mils. 

24 Sunday The Eastern & Calafornia Mail both arived. I Called upon the President & spent a part 
of the day with him & G. A. Smith H. C Kimball D. H. Wells F. D. Richards & [L/E?] Snow. 

I met with my Prayer Circle at 10 oclok. J C. Little gave an account of a Row last night. Henry C. 
Phelps with several others knocked down a man in the streets & robed him of $ 165. Then a 
company Gathered & threatened to kill a policeeman if he did not go & releace a prisioner. He 
did so. Several policeemen Gatherd & the mob fired upon them & Bishop Wiler shot himself in 
the calf of the leg. Many shots were fired by the mob. 

During this morning a man Caught Brigham H Young Horse by the bit & tried to steal his horse 
from him or the Bridel. Brother Pickston knocked him down with his policee stick. 

I met with the 12 in the prayer Circle at 6 oclok. E. Snow prayed & G A Smith was mouth. 

Oct 25 I went to the Church stray pen to get a Durham Bull Calf which Brother Wm. Rydalch let 
me have. He had never been halter broak & we put a lariet on his neck & he nearly Choaked to 
death before we Could do any thing with him. He faught us with great force. I got him home & 
shut him up & fed him. I then assisted in Cleaning out four hog pens whare the Hogs was belly 
deep in mud. Wilford started to Fort Harriman with my two yoked oxen & my loped horn heifer 


Page 144 




& one red Calf left ear croped & * [ "W” turned on side ] on the nigh shoulder. 

I spent the afternoon in the office, Journalizing. Brothers A J Stewart & G. S. Clark arived this 
evening from Austrailia mission. They Came From Calafomia via Carson valley. Brother Stewart 
Spent the night with me. Gave me an account of his Mission. Luke Johnson also spent the night 
with me. 

26 Claudius Spencer started a drove of Cattle to Rush Valley this morning Brother Stewart 
started for home. The City Policee has turned one room into a Calabose to shut up their 
prisioners so they Could not be liberated by the mob. I recieved 500 feet of Lumber of the public 
works at $3 per hundred $15. 

Brother & sister Smoot spent the night with me. He informed me that Samuel A Gilbert Had 
written a liebill of the worst form against Utah, the mormons, & Govornor Cummings saying the 
Court Records & Library were burned & that Govornor Cummings had lied in saying they were 
not burned. Govornor Cummings Called Mr Gilbert Judge St Clair & Secretary Hartnett to his 
room. He made Gilbert acknowledge that he wrote the letter. He raised his Cane over his head & 
swore he would kill him if he did not Contradict the statement in writing which he did. He also 
made Judge St Clair & Hartnett sign a document saying that the records & Library were not 
burned & that Gilbert had net lied. 

27th I spent the day in the office. 

28 I spent the fore part of the day at work at home the afternoon in the office. I received 2 letters 
from [] I F Carter & C W. Wandle. 

29th } I wrote 2 letters to I. F Carter & C. W. Wandle. I spent the day in the office Compiling 
History. 

301 spent the forenoon Compiling History the afternoon at home making pig pen. I got 366 feet 
of Lumber at the temple Block 2 cts $7.32. 

3 1st Sunday I met with my Quorum at 10 oclok. Bishop Hunter Prayed & L W. Hardy was 
mouth. We were informed that M. C. Donald who murdered Brother Cook while on duty as a 
policeman has been killed at Green River under the following Circumstances: A man Called 
Sooty a mountain [man] while going with the mail said if He saw MCDonald He Should take 
him. He was to go east to the Devils gate & return but he met the Eastern mail & returned with it. 
While at Green river stoped to Camp & said that MCDonald had Committed Murder & he should 
arest him. MCDonald herd of it & went to him & drew his revolver & shot at Sooty. The ball 
passed through the upper part of his sholder. Sooty then shot M. C. Donald through the neck & 
he fell dead. 

It was said that Sooty scalped him & gave it to a Friend to keep as a testimony that he had done 
the deed. Some people who were in favor of MCDonald drove of Scoties squaw & horses. 


Page 145 




A man that was a Mormon was shot with 3 balls on dry Creek for his money. The murderer is 
still at large. 

I Called upon President Young & spent the afternoon with him and H C Kimball D H Wells A 
Carrington G A Smith & others. Brothers Jeremiah Hatch & William Miles arived from Sanpete 
with word from Arrowpeen. He says that it was Tamoke a young Indian the son of Uinta who 
killed Brother Brown. Then Brother Josiah Call shot Tamoke through the hips who has since 
died. The indians followed Brother Call & shot him. The Indians said they did not wish us to be 
mad about it. 

Arrowpeen wished to know if I 1 he must shake hands with the armey. He says that all the Indians 
want to fight with the army for they have killed one of our best men & the Indians are mad, and 
they are gathering together to fight & Arrowpeen wants to fight & he will not be Controlled by 
any man but Brigham Young. They say that Mr Hurt the Indian Agent & other officers have told 
them that the United States Anney have Concocked a plan to send all their teamsters among the 
Mormons & to distribute the soldiers among the Mormons and when the Snows fall to Block up 
the Canyons they will fall upon the Mormons & kill Brigham Young his Councellors The Twelve 
and all the Chiefs of the Mormons in all this Territory and if the mormons would not fight now 
they will fight when their Blood mingles with the Blood of the Indians and the indians want to go 
to war. 

They all acknowledge Arrowpeen as their Chief & he will fight unless Brigham Stops him. All 
the tribes in this region will Come together hold a Council & Join in the war. He says the 
/Sanpitch Peo[...] parvantes/ Piedes, Utahs, Shushonies, & Navahoes will all Join together to 
fight the soldiers. This is what they want. 

They say that men appear to them in their Meetings. Come up out of the ground & talk to them & 
tell them they must not kill the mormons for the mormons are good & will soon be one with the 
Indian. The persons who appear to the Indians say they are their Brother. They said one man had 
a red pistol & if he shot it it would blow the mountain to peaces. 

The Indians said that Judge Eckels had advised Col Johnson to place a part of the anney at 
Bridger a part at Cedar valley & some south so that when they make an attack upon the Mormons 
they Could kill them & they could not get out of the valley. Col Johnson has done as Judge 
Eckles advised him. This is the Indians Statement. 

President Young wrote a Letter to Anowpene by Brother Hatch & told him it was not good to 
shed blood. This places President Young in a vary singular position. While President Buchannan 
with the Congress and Armies of the United States are all laying plans to take the Life of 
President Young and the Indian Agents are trying to stir up the Indians to kill him then when the 
Indians turn round & wish to fight the United States President Young through his influence has 
to hold back the instruments of Death from killing the vary men who are seeking his own life. 

But the Lord will reward him for his patience long suffering & forbearance & he will also reward 


Pagel46 




all his Enemies. 


Presidet Young said he believed this war Cloud would blow over. The time would Come when 
these things would Come to pass but he was satisfied the time was not now. Arrowpeen said that 
Forney was a Fool that he had a small heart but it was as black as night. President Young had a 
great heart & it was as white as snow. When the Fords time Come for war the Indians will not 
feel like holding back neither shall I but that time has not Come now. 

I met with the Twelve in the prayer Circle. Brother C C Rich opened by Prayer. F. D. Richards 
was mouth in the Circle. We Consecrated a Bottol of Oil. 

November 

Nov 1st I spent the day in the office Journalizing. Brother Hatch Called into the office & gave an 
Account of the procedings of Dr Forney. He seems vary penurious allthough [the] Government 
has put in his hands a large amount of money to defray the Indian Expenses far more than they 
have ever put into the Hands of Govomor Young & yet Dr Forhey wants the Mormons to feed all 
the Indians as they have done for ten years without any pay so that he Can pocket the money as 
many of the Government officials do & the whole Nation is wicked & Corrupt from the 
President down throug every department of the Government. Their never was a wickeder 
Generation?] on the Earth than the present one. They are ripe for the Damnation of Hell and 
righteously deserve the wrath & indignation of Almighty God. 

2d I Covered up my Grape vines and went to the office. President Young said while speaking of 
the Indian war that it was better for us not to fight them but feed them well treat them kindly & 
they would kill far less of our people & die much Faster themselves than they would to fight 
them & drive them to subsist upon their former living upon roots & herbs. 

I felt impressed during the evening to go the Presidents Young. I called upon him & spent the 
evening with him & D H Wells O. Hyde G. A. Smith John Taylor A Fyman. I did not know that 
the Twelve were going to meet there. 

Elders O. Hyde & John Taylor gave an account of their mission North. They went to Farmington 
& preached to the people. They sharply reproved Brother Brownell for Fault finding & sowing 
evil through the place against Bishop Hess & others. Brother Brownell was vary stubborn & it 
was finally dicided to Cut him off from the Church if He did not make Confession next Sabbath. 
The whole branch voted for this measure. 

Brownell Called upon Brother Wells to get Council upon it. Brother Wells told him it would do 
him no hurt to humble himself & make a Confession as he was required. 

President Young said I have often thought of the words of Solomon that a wise Child was Better 
than an Old and foolish King. I Could pick out many Boys in this Church 16 years old more fit 
for Bishops than many old men who are Bishops. There are but few men who seem Calculated to 
make Bishops. 


Page 147 




The Brethren then went to Willow Creek to Settle a Difficulty with Elder A Cordon the President 
& Bishop Dives. There were three or Four Charges brought against Brother Cordon but when 
they were all investigated they did not amount to any thing as a fault. All the Branch voted to 
sustain him as Presidet the Bishops Councellor for the men who accused him four of his accusers 
were cut off from the Church. The people did not like to vote for Bishop Dives unless he would 
go by the Council given him. 

He had it was said that the Bishop had a watch which he Carried that was tithing property & a 
cow they had milked all summer & No credit given on the tithing Books &c. These matters were 
not much investigated. President Young said the Twelve should look into all such matters & 
regulate them. 

He asked if they saw any body there that would make a Bishop. They said No without it was 
Elder Cordon. O Hyde thought He knew much more than Bishop Dives. President Young said He 
is not Calculated for a Bishop. He is a good man for a President and in spiritual things But was 
not Calculated for a Bishop. 

Their is anoth[er] thing. Lorenzo Snow presides over that region & is a prudent wise man yet he 
has strong pregudices & does not pull on the same strings that I do. There has been a kind of a 
spirit to keep Dives Down But I believe if he had had the sole Controll of things there as the 
presidet opened the meetings & preached to the people He would have made a good smart 
preacher. But I never saw the man that was kept down by his superiors that Could rise above it. 

John Taylor asked who is the greatest the President or the Bishop. Presidet Young said the 
Bishop should attend to his own business & let the Presidents alone & the Presidents should 
attend to his Business & let the Bishops alone. But they should [sic] The President should say to 
the Bishop can I do any thing for you & the Bishop should say to the President can I do any thing 
for you & they should mutually help each other. 

President Young asked Can a Bishop try a President? Answered yes. Can a Presidet try a Bishop? 
John Taylor thought there might be Cases whare a President Might try a Bishop. Presidet Young 
said A Bishop Might try an Apostle & Cut him off whare he Committed any outrageous Act in 
his ward. G A Smith said a Teacher might do the same as far as his authority went But of Course 
he Could Appeal. President Young said a man Cut himself off or on just as he pleased by his own 
acts. But any one of the Twelve while officiating in his office in any part of the world are the 
Presidency of the Church the same as we are a home. Their power is the same as ours & they 
should investigate & regulate all matters appertaining to the Church, without any regard to 
whatever instruction they may have received. 

3d I spent the day at home Covering vines &c till 2 oclk & the rest of the day at the office. 

4th I spent the day Compiling History. I planted some peach stones, Apricotts & Plums & 
Currants in the morning. I spent the evening with President Young D H. Wells G A. Smith A 


Page 148 




Lyman J. Cummings B Stringham & Lewis Robinson. President Young asked me if I would go 
to Filmore. I told him yes. 

President Young * said one of his Boys stuck a nail through his foot. He took the nail greased it 
& carried it in his pocket & kept it warm wraped in a peace of paper then put on a peace of salt 
pork on the wound & it soon healed up. This is always his remidy and he says he has never 
known it to fail. This is worth remembering. 

I spent the time at home making out accounts from 9 oclok till 2 in the morning. 

5th I spent the day on History. 

6th I spent the fore part of the day on History. The afternoon I spent at home. I made a family 
Party in Connexion with A. O. Smoot & his family. Bishop Hunter & family was also present. 
The party passed off vary plesantly (<except on [-]>). D Carnes & Rockwood myself Called upon 
Presidet Young for Council upon keeping prision[ers?]. 

7th Sunday I met with my Prayer Circle at 10 oclok. Bishop Hoagland Prayed & J. C. Little was 
mouth. I Called upon Presidet Young & spent most of the day in his office with him & H. C. 
Kimball & D. H Wells G. A. Smith reading papers which Come by the Eastern mail which arived 
on Saturday the 6th. There was but little News except the Atlantic Cable telegraph has sceased to 
work & 22 more persons were picked up from the Austria making 90 saved & 5 10 lost. The 
yellow fever has raged at an alarming rate. Over 500 death daily in New Orleans alone from that 
desease. 

An opposition paper is being published in this City by Kirk Anderson. It is Called Kirk 
Andersons valley Tan. The first peace strikes out against Polygamy in Strong terms. 

They are seting at liberty a thousand or more teamsters at Col Johnsons Camp which are filling 
our Cities & towns with rowdyism & Crime to get up a fuss with the Saints. 

I met at 6 oclok with the Twelve in the prayer Circle at the Historians Closset. Erastus Snow 
Prayed. John Taylor was mouth. I spent the evening with Presidet Young & D. H. Wells & E. T. 
Benson & G. A. Smith at the presidets Office. 

8th I spent the day in the office Compiling History. Robert started this morning to draw lumber 
from the mouth of Cottonwood for Wm. Kimball. G. A. Smith went to Jordon Mill. 

I called upon Presidet Young & spent the evening with him & D H Wells. We read to him the 
Article of agreement Between Mr Benson of New York & Samuel Brannan drawn up By Amos 
Kendel. President Young said not [to] put it in History But Copy it in a Book & seal it up stating 
on the outside of it what it is & let it lie untill we want it. It may be 20 years hence. He said 
President Polk was at the Bottom of it and Poke wanted to give the Mormons a grant of Land 
some whare in the west But secretary Marcy opposed him strongly & said if he did He would 
resign & do all he Could against him. There was a strong opposition against the Saints & Thomas 


Page 149 




Benton had prepared an Anney to destroy the saints in the wilderness & Nothing saved us ownly 
our fitting out the Monnon Battalion to go to Mexico at the Call of the Government. 

It was reported that Peter Conover was drunk in a Store & nearly Crazy. Hopkins Pendor a 
Policeeman went in to take him when some of his friends said they would take care of him He 
said that was all he wanted was to have him taking Care of. As he was leaving the Store Calvin 
Foss Came to him and asked him if he was the man that Chased him the other night (as two men 
were Chased who had taken away a roans wife & daughter for the purpose of whoredom & was 
shot at while in their flight). He answered yes. Foss then said dam you I will shoot you if you 
ever follow me again. You just try it again & I will use you up. 

Hopkins Fendor went into the street & told the Mayor of [it]. He asked him why he did not knock 
him down. He said why did you not go into the street & get help? The remark was made that He 
ought to be taken up. <President Young> one said I would not take him up if he was to threaten 
my life in that way. 

Brother James Ida Called upon President Young for Council to go to Calafomia to settle his 
business. President Young advised him to remain & appoint some man there to settle it. This 
Brother Ida raised a large Crop of wheat for the saints in Calafomia. 

Nov 9th I spent the day in the office Compiling History. I spent the evening with President 
Young. The time was spent mostly in Conversation upon taning leather & making fish Oil. J 
Cummings had bought of Homer Du[nbar/rham?] some 20 gallons of fish oil but it was like soap 
& good for nothing. He had kept it stiring all summer and spoiled it. President Young had told 
them if they wanted to make good fish oil make a vat or big tub set it in the Sun & throw in all 
the heads & guts & let them lie & rot and stink & they will all turn to oil. You Can put a little 
water in the Bottom to keep the oil from drying. 

10th I spent the day in the office on history. I Called upon Wm. Kimball in the evening about 
Lumber. I found him in Bed. I then Called upon President Young. I found D H Wells O. Hyde G 
A. Smith C C. Rich A. Lyman E. Snow & W. Woodruff was with him. I. C. Haight & Elias 
Morris arived from Iron County, & was present. He reports that they had made good Iron in the 
last blast but it had not run long before their blast blew out the lining having melted. He reported 
that they hag a good Crop of Cotton, one half of which was destroyed by an Early frost. They had 
a Cotton Gin in operation & doing well. They had a good Crop of sugar Cane a part of which was 
destroyed by the frost. They report the road lined with Deserters, Teams & soldiers on the way to 
Calafomia. 

1 1th I spent the day in the office on History. I spent the evening at home. 

12th Wilford Commenced drawing rock for the Dam on Jordon. I called at President Youngs 
office & was introduced to the Attorney General Mr Wilson. Gov Cummings was also Present. It 
was merely an introductory meeting & but little said. A report reached us that Maj Beal & his 
party was Cut off & his Camels runing around loose. Gov Cummings thought the Contractory for 


Page 150 




the Mail would use Camels on this Northern route for the transporting of the Mail. President 
Young thought they would not answer in a Cold or wet Climate. Bishop Tarlton Lewis arived 
from Parowan. Had an interview with President Young & presented him with some specimens of 
led & Copper oar from the serface. I spent the remainder of the day in the office on History. 

Note (5)Friday night I met with President Young G A Smith O. Hyde E. T Benson & Elder Wall 
& A. J. Stewart. President Young in speaking of the 3 men that was Cut off from the church 
Chesley & James Phelps and anoth[er] He hoped they would not come back for they were a stink 
in any place. James Phelps will steal & Get Drunk. 

William Hickman had his Horse stolen in the streets to day with Saddle & Bridle. He was offered 
$500 for him in the morning. The thieves are getting vary bold in this City. They are stealing 
horses in our streets in open day & waggons out of the yard by night. 

Brother Wall related a Circumstance of an officer of the Anney who ask him if he was a 
Mormon. Yes. I suppose you are an out & in mormon Just as it suits you? I am a thorough 
mormon. I believe in all their principles. What poligamy and all? Yes. How many wives have 
you? I have three & Twelve Children. How do you suppose those Children will look upon you 
when they get Grown up? I will tell you how they will look upon me. They will point to me & 
say theire is my Father who has raised me fed. Clothed & Educated me and owned me through 
persecution oppression & scorn and I will own honor & obey him, while your Children at Fort 
Levensworths St Louis & all places whare you have been which you will not own nor provide for 
they will not own you & their mothers will point to you as they see you pass & will say there is 
your father but dont say a word about it for the world. Those Children will both Hate & despise 
you & the vary Ground upon which you tread. Capt Wolf replied scratching his head By . . . that 
is true but I never looked upon it in that light. [The ellipses are Woodruffs .] 

"What would you do if the Government should give orders to put you to death if you did not put 
away your wives? I would take my wives & children & go to some secluded spot of Earth whare 
I Could enjoy my wives & Children & liberty. "What if the Government should pounce onto you 
& not give you the privilege? Then I would take my family into the mountains & I would fight 
you over evry hill & dale as long as I lived. Capt Woolf replyed I will not shoot at you. 

Capt Woolf said Governor Young ought to be the next President for He is the smartest man in 
the United States. He has been playing a game of Ucre with the United States and has beat them. 
He had gained five points while the United States has ownly had a march & he ought to be 
president & I would vote for him. 

The man who was a waggon master of the train which Lot Smith burned said Capt Smith & his 
men were Gentlemen. It was the best thing for me & your people that Could have been done. It 
released me & sent me back to the States or I should have suffered with the rest in the mountains 
And it was well for the mormons for if this train had not been burned the Armey would probably 
have pushed on had a fight & blood been spiled. 


Pagel51 




The Gentiles have undertaken to build a City on Provo Bench. Wall offered to take the water out 
for $200,000. President Young thought they would do not much in it. 

13th A Conference of the Authorities of the Church met this morning according to adjoummet. 
All the Presidency of the Church & Twelve Apostles were present except Amasa Lyman who had 
gone south by appointment. Also a large assembly of Seventies, High Priest, Bishops Presidents 
of Branches Elder Teachers Priest & Deacons. 

President Kimble spoke in the morning followed by O. Hyde W. Woodruff. Presidet Brigham 
Young then addressed the People for the first time since the Armey of the United States had 
entered our valley. He gave much good teaching instruction & reproof. 

In the Afternoon Joseph Young spoke followed by O Hyde then [ ]. [ ] Members were Cut 

off from the Church. 

I met in the evening at President Young with the Legislature. An arangement was made by the 
members to assemble at the social Hall on the 2d Monday in Dec & organize & adjourn to 
Fillmore. This was done to sustain our own acts. Then at Fillmore we would organize to 
Accomodate Gov Cummings as he Considered that the Seat of Government. Then we would 
adjourn back to Great Salt Lake City to spend the session to accomodate all parties. 

Gov. Cummings thought our adjournment to Great Salt Lake City was illegal because it was done 
by a Joint resolution of both Houses in Joint Session. He Considered it not of the same validity as 
an act in separate houses. He was informed that several of the States in the Union was received & 
admitted into the Union by a Joint Vote of both Houses of Congress and we established the seat 
of Government at Filmore by a Joint resolution of both houses & if our removal of the seat of 
Government to Great Salt Lake City was not legal then the esstablishment of the seat of 
government at Filmore was not legal. Hence we have no seat of Government. It is a singular 
argument of Gov Cummings that the unanimous vote of the two houses in Joint Session weakens 
the power of Legislation & is not of the same force & validity that it would be if passed in 
separate Houses. Such an argument Contains neither force or power. 

14 Sunday The Conference met at 10 oclok. Presidet Wells spoke after President Kimball, & He 
was followed by Presidet Young who reproved the Elders sharply in the power of God for the 
evils which exhisted among them. 

The Conference then Cut off from the Church by an unanimous vote [ ] members and on 

Saturday they cut off [ ] Members making a total of [ ]. They were Cut of for Aposticy, 

drunkenness lying swareing whoredores &c. 

President Young again spoke & asked if they supposed all was Cut off that should be. I tell you 
no. If all should be Cut off that ought to be there would be many more than there is to day. He 
said that any man that wilfully sined and broke the Law of God ought to be Cut off. Men may do 
wrong & sin wilfully with there Eyes. Can I forgive them? I will if God will but he will require 


Page 152 




the penalty to be paid. I will forgive men for sining ignorantly. 

Conference adjourned till 6 April. I met with the Quorum of the Twelve for prayer. O. Hyde 
prayed. O. Pratt was mouth. 

15th I spent the day at the office Journalizing & on history. 

Nov 16 I spent the day in the office Compiling History & Journalizing. The U.S. District Court 
met to day organized Called the Jury. Many were absent. Some were fined $25. Orders were 
issued to fill the Juries. G[en?] Burr was admitted to the Bar. He then filed an affadavit to reject 
Hosea Stout J. C. Little & James Furguson from the Bar. At the request of Mr Wilson the US 
District Attorney for Utah the Court adjourned for one week. I spent the night at home. 

17th I spent the day in the office on History & separating Scraps. We have many strangers in our 
streets. 


18 A plesant morning. We are having fine weather for the time of the year. I spent the day in the 
office dividing scraps which business all the hands in the office was ingaged in. We had a great 
Quantity on hand & we found it necessary to divide them into years, months, & days, & put them 
into scraps Books and index the Books so that we Could [find] any thing which we wished to 
refer to which is quit a tedious task. 

I Called upon President Young in the evening. He wished to have a Certain Note which he gave 
several years ago & was published in the Eastern states. He also wished the Names of the first six 
persons who were Baptized into the Church. I went to the Historions Office and obtained the 
Note he wished which G. A. Smith delivered to him. I gave him the names that were first 
Baptized into the Church which I took out of the Church History as follows: 


Oliver Cowdery 
Joseph Smith 
Samuel Smith 
Hiram Smith 
David Whitman 
Peter Whitmore 


By Joseph Smith 
" Oliver Cowdery 

»» t» »» 

" Joseph Smith 

»» »t tf 

" Oliver Cowdery 


Heber C. Kimball D. H. Wells W. Woodruff G A. Smith E. T. Benson & Nathan C. Tinney & 
Hosea Stout was with the President during the evening. Hosea Stout gave an account of the 
present position of the U.S. Court in this City. They are entangling themselves in a Close trap. 
John Banks was Cut off from the Church during the last Conference. He was baptized again to 
day & thinks of studying Law. 


Brother Nathan E. Tinney was asked By President Young about John D Lee marrying a squaw. 
He told the Story. President Young said I think there has been more fuss made about it than was 
necessary. President Young said we have sent Elders for several years to go among the Indians 
marry their squaws & identify themself with the Indians go and live with them but up to this day 


Pagel53 




I Could not get an Elder to do it. I have said if any man Could get appointed to take my place I 
would show them how it was done. He said when an Elder goes among the Lamanites & finds a 
good spirited young squaw let him take her & make a wife of her & if any of the Brethren in the 
South want to take a squaw to wife let him go to Amasa while He is in the South & let him seal 
them the same as any body. 

Brother Tenny gave us a relation of his experience in Bringing about 400 goats from Calafornia. 
He says the she goats have Lambs three times each year & they have from 1 to 6 kids each birth. 
They lambed twice while driving from Calafornia & lost them all. He says he drove them 130 
miles across the burning desert before they would drink & he was a week going that distance. He 
says if they are left to run on the prarie without a Shepherd they will loose half or two thirds of 
their kids. They will drop their kids & stand a few moments & look at them & then would follow 
the flock & leave them & when the shepherd is with them & they do this He takes the kids & 
Carries them to a pen & when the goats are drove in the pen he takes the kid to the dam & she 
will not own it. He then ties up the fore leg a foot or two high to a fence. Then sometimes she 
will take the kid in her mouth & throw it away. The sheperd then ties a string to her under Jaw & 
ties it to a fence & makes her stand an hour or so & lets the kid stand & suck & in a little time the 
Dam will own it. He keeps the kids in a pen till a month old before he lets them run loose with 
their Dams. 

When Dams loose their kids they are vary profitable to milk for either milk butter or Cheese. 
Their milk is much richer than Cows. That * Butter is as white as snow. He has taken 20 lb of 
tried tallow out of one goat. 

He alters the Bucks the same as sheep. They get their full groath at two & half years. They are 
then killed for their meat & skins & they produced meat faster than any other stock. 

He says he can herd 200 sheep & 200 goats to gether & drive them to any place easier than he 
Can 100 sheep alone as he Can drive goats to any point of Compass & the sheep will follow. 
Buck sheep will mix with Goats which does not injure the meat. But Buck Goats will never serve 
a sheep. When a she goat produces a Buck land gendered by a Buck sheep they have two pair of 
horns but it is not often they mix in this way. A she goat will give from one pint to 3 pints to 
milking. 

19th G A Smith went to Provo. I spent the day separating scraps of 1858. 1 spent the evening 
with President Young. Brother E. Snow G D Watt & Tinney were present. 

20th I spent the day separating scraps. It snowed mostly through the day. I Called upon President 
Young in the evening at 9 oclok I Conversed with him upon the Deseret Alphabet. All our former 
manuscript was lost and he wished me to Join Elder G. D. Watt in making out an other. 

At 5 oclok P Dodson Came to serve A writ upon Brigham Young sen. Brigham Young jr. Joseph 
A. Young, Hiram Clawson, & James Ferguson. President Young sent word for him to leave a 
Copy & He would acknowledge the serving of the writ. At half past 5 [One?] Gilbert Came again 


Page 154 




to serve the same writs & was Determined to go in but they did not let him but acknowledged the 
writ. The Gentiles are trying to make a Fuss with the Saints in this place But God will Controll 
the matter. This puts me in mind of my dream last winter that the Anney Came in & I was taken 
three times with warr[en]ts. I herd President Young acknowledge the servear of the writ. This 
writ was issued upon a Complaint that President Young had taken the property of Mr Burr which 
he left. He was sewed in the sum of $3,000. 1 remained till near 9 oclok. 

21st Sunday I met with my Quorum at 12 oclok for prayer. A. O. Smoot Prayed & E F Sheets 
was mouth. The Eastern Mail arived this morning. Report Some 18 inches of Snow on the 
mountains. Their was not much News by the mail. The State Elections Show that the North was 
going against the President & his measures. 

I met with the Twelve at 6 oclok in the Prayer Circle, After which we Called upon the President 
Brigham Young viz O Pratt W Woodruff John Taylor, E. T. Benson & Erastus Snow of the 
Twelve & D. H. Wells & G D Grant. We spent the evening till 9 oclok. The conversation was 
upon the subject of the Court to morrow mostly & the spirit of the Gentiles. Presidet Young said 
Gov Cummings was much opposed to the Course that Burr & Judge St Clair is taking in this 
matter. President Young has turned the property over to Gov Cummings a long time ago. 

I went home & administered to my Child Hiram Smith who was taken sick on Friday & has now 
a severe attack of the Quinsey & vary dangerous. This is Emma's Child. Mrs Woodruff Sister 
Smoot & Smith set up with it mostly through the night. It was vary sick. They gave it Lobelia & 
Oil & molasses & relieved the lungs & a fever seemed to settle in the Head. We administered to 
it several times & it seemed to get some relief. We prayed for it in the prayer Circle. W Woodruff 
prayed & John Taylor was mouth. We had a snow storm through the night. 

22d My Child Hiram Smith is quite sick this morning. He has spasums or fits & the fever seems 
to be in the head. I spent the forenoon in the Historian office Journalizing. The Court met this 
morning at 10 oclok. 

Brother Joseph S. Murdock Called into the office & said one Vinson Hamelton Stephenson told 
him that He would inform him of all the plots that were laid against this people. Wm. Rogers 
who defended Joseph Smith at Dixon is keeping a Boarding House with Stephenson at 
M[ulners?] & he will also reveal what he knows about our enemies. 

I have Just learned that our manuscript was found on the Deseret Alphabet. I am glad to hear it. 

I Called upon the President Young in the evening with E. T. Benson & Erastus Snow & Wm. C. 
Stains & Conversd till 9 oclok upon the affairs of the Court & the present excited State of the 
people. I set up with my Child till 1 oclok. 

During the night the men & Clerks at Kinkades Store Came out & kicked the police & Stoned 
them. Then the police turned upon them & knocked some half a doz down & laid them Cold on 
the pavement. One was a surgeon of the armey. Three Balls was shot from the Store at the 


Pagel55 




policee but none of them was hit but they Shot one of their own men. The Police did not shoot at 
all but used their Baton’s or Clubs. 

23d My Child is some better this morning. I met the mayor A. O. Smoot going to make out the 
papers to arest the man at Kinkades Store for assaulting the police. 

Brother Stanes reported that Mr Wilson the U.S. district Attorney Considered Judge Sinclair was 
entirely out of order in his Charge to the Jury & insult to himself in not giving him the 
oppertunity of meeting with the Grand Jury. They are becoming divided among themselves. 

I Called upon the president at 2 oclok Brother Sharp Came in & gave an account of the row at 
Kinkades last night. He said that He was in it from first to last. Mr. Charles Kinkade was at the 
head of the row. He tried to provoke a Quarrel with the Poliece. They made all kind of noises to 
attempt the police to arest them but the police did not interfere with them untill they Came out & 
kicked & stoned the poliece. They then knocked down some half a dozen of them. Several shots 
were exchanged but nobody killed. The Poliece quelled the mob several of which were severely 
hurt. One asked for two poliecemen to guard him while He went to Mr Hartnets to get Dr Hurt to 
Come & dress the wounds of those who were hurt. Two policemen went with him & while 
returning with Mr Hartnet one of the poliecemen pistol accidentally was discharged & the ball 
went into the ground. This Frightened Mr Hartnet for He thought He was shot at. But He was 
informed that it was an accident. The Gentiles are vary anxious to get up a row with this people. 

The Court met to day at 1 1 oclk & done no business except to decide that 2 indians in the 
penitentiary should be tried in the next district south. 

I took all the papers or manuscript that we had written in English for the Deseret Alphabet & 
brought it to my draw[er] in the Historians office. 

24th My Child Commenced to fail about midnight and we immediately Considered him dying & 
he Continued to fail untill 25 minutes past 12 oclok [P]M. when He expired. Jose Hyrum Smith 
son of Wilford & Emma Woodruff was 1 year 1 Month & 20 days old when He died. 

The Mayor A. O Smoot had an interview with Govomor Cummings who thoroughly sustained 
the poliece in their course with the mob on Monday night. He told Brother Smoot that the ownly 
fault he found in the whole affair was that they did not notify him that He might be on the ground 
to met the mob & head the battle Himself for it was better for the responsibility to Come upon 
him than upon the mayor & poliece of the City. 

He said he had had / an interview with the Judges & Civil officers of the US Court & they asked 
him for a posse to take Brigham Young before the Court & asked for Council. He told the Judges 
he would advise them to rule in Court that when any man wished to subpoena a man to Come 
before the Court that the man should make an Affidavit that the person was an Essential witness 
& state what he wished to prove by him & send it to the man before he forced him to appear. 
Judge Sinclair thought favorable of it but Cradle Baugh swore he would not submit to it. Judge 


Pagel56 




Sinclair said he would not esstablish[ing?] rulings in his Court without notifying the Govomor of 
it. 

Govornor Cumings said he should not think it good policy to esstablish Forcible measures in 
Forceing Brigham Young & others to appear in Court on evry frivolous Case & even not at all 
untill the Character of the United States Courts had been better esstablished in this Territory than 
they had heretofore for you all know damned well that the people Here have not been vary 
Civilly or lawfully treated in many instances by dignitaries, and during the present excited state 
of things I think it would be policy to take pacific measures & not try to Create disturbance 
among the people. 

He told Brother Smoot that if there was any more mobing in the Street He ment to take the Bull 
by the Homs himself. I do not wish to get into rows but the police shall not be driven out of these 
streets. They shall be maintained in the discharg of their duty. 

The Court is resolved to Bring out Brigham Young before them on a subpeena as a witness in the 
case of Burr. Govornor Cummings felt troubled about it more than any thing He had met with 
fearing Presidet Young would not comply but all things will be right. The Mayor made 
arangements to move the Court to the social Hall. 

25 I spent most of this day in preparing for the funeral {HSW} & the burrial of my Child which I 
buried in the first lot on the south side of the road after passing through the west gate of the 
Burying ground. It is the third grave visible. Some graves have been dug up in making a road. 

I spent the evening with the regency with President Young. There were present Brigham Young 
D. H. Wells, O. Hyde W. Woodruff G. A. Smith E. T. Benson F. D. Richards A. Carrington W. 
W Phelps, Hoses Stout, Samuel Richards G. D. Watt & R. L. Campbell & Joseph A Young. We 
[-] upon the arangment of the Alphabet to have it stand perpendic[lar?] also to print the first 
Book in the Deseret Alphabet & to print some in each Number of the Deseret News. President 
Young has laboured unceseingly to esstablish the Deseret Alphabet & have it taught in our 
schools. 

Judge Sinclair ruled that [since] they had sit in Court but 7 days instead of nearly 60 that He 
should not Count time ownly while sitting in Court. The Deseret News published the procedings 
of the Court which has made the Judge & his party quite mad. 

26 We have a hard snow storm this morning. I spent the day in the office scraping. 

27th It is a Cold day. I spent the day in the office scraping & preparing matter for the deseret 
Alphabet. Mr Kinkade & his party were tried before the Mayor and fined $20 each. Kirk 
Anderson plead their Cause or rather Pled guilty for them. 

28th Sunday President Young was Confined to his room all day with illness. The eastern Mail 
arived last night at 12 oclok a vary dry mail. Nothing of interest. I met with my Quorum at 12 
oclok for Prayer. R L Campbell prayed. Brother Pugmire was Mouth. I spent several hours in the 


Page 157 




Presidents office looking over the mail but found but little of interest. 

I met with the Twelve in the Prayer Circle. G. A. Smith Prayed & C. C Rich was mouth. The 
subjects of our prayers were for the President & for the Lord to overthrow the evil designs of our 
enemies against us & to divide them in their Councils that they may do us no harm. 

29th A plesant morning. Brother Riser Came into the office & spoke of his mission in Jennany. 
He had four trials & 23 days imprisionment in Hamburgh for preaching the fulness of the Gospel 
Called monnonism. 

The Court met this morning at 1 1 oclok. Judge Sinclair has tried to rig a purchase to take up 
Brigham Young & his Council & the Twelve for treason. He gave a Charge to the Jury to Bring 
in a Charge of treason against the leaders of this people but to day the District Attorney has 
argured before the Court & the Grand Jury that they had no Jurisdiction upon treason that was 
Committed at any period before the peace Commissioners left this Territory for Washington. It is 
a Historical fact that treson did exhist in this Territory. It is equally a Historical fact that all 
treason which exhisted in this Territory was pardoned By James Buchanan the President of the 
United States & By the Govomor of this territory and the Grand Jury have no business to enquire 
into any thing before the leaving of the pease Commissioners left this territory. Neither the Judge 
or Jery has nothing to do with any thing that transpired before that event. So this ends the matter 
of trying to bring up Brigham Young on treason. 

Judge Sinclair ruled that Green river County was not in his Jurisdiction. 

I spent the evening with President Young & the Committee on the Deseret Alphabet. 

30 Wilford started with a team to carry Jesse Fox to Rush valley to esstablish the south line ol 
our Grant. I went with my team & Carried G. A. Smith & others on the west Bank of Jordon to 
hold a meeting with the Company to deside whare we would build the dam to take out the Jordon 
River to water land. We spent two hours on the ground & adjourned to the Historian office on 
Wednesday night. 

We Called upon the Presidet. We were informed that the Court was trying to get him to appear as 
a witness on the morrow. It was expected that there was a plan laid to kill him But God will ward 
off the Blow. Hosea Stout had an interview with Sinclair who said He believed that the object 
was to Get Brigham Young out & not to Carry out law or Justice. I spent most of the afternoon in 
the office. 

I spent the evening with the President & the Committee on the Deseret Alphabet. We laboured 
till near 1 1 oclok on the word Rule. The brethren Could not agree upon the sound of it. Most of 
the Company wanted it <rool> others want it <riool> [in Deseret ]. 

December 

Dec 1st Many plans had been laid to get President Brigham Young before the Court. It was 


Pagel58 




supposed to be effected to day. Hence the Court room was nearly fdled with Monnons So but 
few Gentiles Could get in. At 1 1 oclok Judge Sinclair arived their with the members of the Court 
with the Lawyiers Gov Cummings & about 300 spectators mostly mormons. 

The Judge called the attention of the assembly. Said he had tried to keep order & he should 
punish any attempt to disturb the Court. The Clerk then red the minutes of yesterday & the Court 
said he was ready for Business & said he was ready for the trial of Mr Furgerson. Mr James 
Ferguson Presented his resignation as a member of the Bar. The Court would not receive his 
resignation of the Bar but wished to have it go to trial. 

Some person in the Court room said that there were a few seats empty which Could be filled. The 
Court said that if the person was not an officer of the Court it was out of order. 

The Court then red some law touching the case before him & said it must be tryed. If you wish to 
plead guilty to the whole Charge then I Can give my decission accordingly. Mr Furguson then 
said that he had not met with this Court & could not be guilty of any Charges before the Court 
and in the accusation it was not stated whare it was done. The Judge then gave the papers to Mr 
Burr to Fix them right so the case might be tried. It then Read David H Burr and was done before 
Judge G. P. Stiles. 

Furgeson then asked if the Court intended to open & examine] the Records of Judge Stiles. He 
said he should as far as was necessary to try his Case. The Court then sent for the records & red 
some in them. 

Mr Smith then spoke and said that as it was a personal nature he wished the two Atturneys to 
manage the matter themselves without any assistance from either side. If Mr Furgeson has help 
upon the other side I wish to help Mr Burr. Mr Ferguson said several of my Friends volunteered 
their services But I prefered to act alone upon my side that Mr Burr might upon his Side. 

The Judge then red some more Law or the same Law over again. Thomas Williams then notified 
the Court that He should file an action against James Furguson to be stricken from the roll as an 
alien. The Court told Mr Ferguson that as there was so many Changes in the Charge against him 
that He would give him time if he wished. He asked for time till next Friday. The Judge Gave it 
to him & adjourned till next Friday night. 

I spent the afternoon in the office and evening with President Young & the Committee on the 
Deseret Alphabet. 

The Jordan Dam Company met at the Historians office and decided to build the dam on dry 
ground in a crook of the river and turn the river through it instead of building it in the river 
thinking it Could be done much better & safer than in the river. Brother Forsyth offered to dig 
out the Earth & stop up the river for $1,700 dollars. The Channel has to be dug out 16 Rods long 
70 feet wide 7 feet deep. The Earth is Composed of sand Clay & hardpan. 

2d We had a Cold night & we have a cold morning and it remained extremely Could through the 


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day. I spent the day in the office Journalizing & scraping. I spent the evening with President 
Young & the regency in reading the first book in the Deseret Alphabet <alfibit> \in Deseret. The 
first character is a backwards long "a" sound.] There were present B. Young D. H. Wells O. 
Hyde W. Woodruff G. A. Smith E. T. Benson F. D. Richards Samuel Richards Hosea Stout G. D. 
Watt R L. Campbell Wm. Willis, & Brother Schonfeld. We were dismissed at 10 oclok. 

3d A vary Cold night & morning. I called at Presidents Youngs at 10 oclok. He Concluded to go 
to court. I went at 1 1 oclock. The House was nearly full mostly of mormons. Soon President 
Brigham Young came in with G A Smith O Pratt John Taylor and a Croud of Friends. Soon 
Judge Sinclair with his Fawyiers Doctors &c including Burr Hurt Forney & a number of others. 
There were about 300 persons present. 

The Court was ordered opened. The minutes were read. The Judge Called up the business. James 
Furgerson then presented a Demurr. The Judge then ordered Burr to make out New Papers which 
he did. Then Furgerson asked for more time. The Judge gave him till monday 1 1 oclok. The 
Court was then adjourned till next monday 1 1 oclk. Thus this Court has now set & ben open over 
60 days & no business of any account has been transacted. The Cost of Court to day m[ost?] one 
thousand Dollars Counting the value of the time of those who attended. 

4th It is vary Cold weather. We hear of vary many animals freezing to death & several men. 
Brother Samuel Fevan on Cotton wood froze to death. It is rumoured that several others are 
frozen to Death. I spent the day in the office on scrap Books. 

I spent the evening at President Young with Presidet Young D. H. Wells G. A. Smith O. Hyde 
Samuel Richard J. W. Cumings & Br Winder. We learned that the wind had Blown down 
sever[al] Houses in Fannington also President Youngs tannerry some Barnes and a part of the 
Penetentiary. /Br Fevan Called upon J V Vernon to warm him & he turned him & Dusett & 2 
Boys outdoors & would not let them warm./ 

5th Sunday We had a vary windy night & a cold morning. I met with my cuorum at 12 oclok. 
Arsa Hinkley prayed. I was mouth in the Circle. I met with the Twelve. E Snow Prayed, F D. 
Richards was mouth. We Conversed upon a variety of subjects. It was a cold night. 

6th The court met to day at 1 1 oclok. Mr Burr swore to the Charges which he had prefered 
against Furgerson. Mr Furguson swore that there was witnesses which were of importance to 
him. One was Judge Stiles & Orrelius Miner. He adjourned his Court till next monday. 

I spent the day butchering my hogs. I killed 3 Hogs. One weighed 324 one 3 19 & one 233. Total 
876. 1 salted up my pork & went to the office in the evening. Phebe was taken vary sick with the 
Hives to day. For one hour it seemed as though she could hardly breath. She had a vary sick 
night. 

7 Phebe is vary sick. I Called upon Zina Young & Eliza. They both accompanied me to my house 
& spent the forenoon with her. She suffered vary much. I called at the office at 2 oclok. I Called 


Page 160 




upon President Young in the evening. He had been poorly for the last two days. Phebe remained 
vary sick till midnight when her phyzic operated which opened her system & releaved her in a 
measure. It was a strong attack of the destroyer to take her life. I was with her till one oclok. 

8th A plesant morning but Cold. I read the account of the death of Brother Samuel Levan who 
was frozen to death. Mr Vernon manifested the spirit of a Brute in turning him with three other 
men from his door in a freezing Condition & one lost his life and two of the others freeze their 
feet badly. 

Wilford returned home this noon. He had been out 4 days & a half. In all the Cold weather he had 
become vary much Chilled & froze his feet & fingers. 

I spent the evening with President Young D. H. Wells G. A. Smith, J. W. Cummings A 
Carrington G. W. Watt & some others. 

Robert Got home this evening And reported my Cattle doing well. 

9th Phebe is much better this morning. I spent the day in the office on History. Brother Fox 
Called in the office this afternoon & gave me an account of the distances from the Temple Block 
in great Salt Lake City to Johnsons settlement in Rush valley which are as follows: 

A Table of Distances from Great Salt Lake City 
To Johnsons Fort in Rush Valley Shambip County 


Council House to Jordon Bridge 

1.81 Miles 

1.81 

Jordon Bridge to point of Mountain 

11 03/100" 

12.84 

Point of Mountain to Black Rock 

6 30/100" 

19.14 

Black Rock to E. T. City 

3.74 

22.88 

E T City to Bensons Mills 

2.73 

25.01 

Bensons Mills to Ormus Bates 

3.35 

28.90 

OBates to Toille City 

5.49 

34.45 

Toille City to Old Barracks 

8.91 

43.36 

Old Barracks to Johnsons Fort 

8.22 

51.58 

From Bensons Mills to Grantsville 

10.58 


He run the south line of the rush valley HerdCompany grant 12 

miles south of Hickmans springs 


which brought it 30 rods South of a warm spring. The government waggon road runs near it. 
There is a spirit manifested by some of the Settlements to deprive the Grantees of any right there 
& rumour Sayes that Bishop Rowbery is ingaged in it. 

10th I spent the forenoon in settelling with the Rush valley Herd Company. I spent the afternoon 
in the office on History. I spent the evening with President Young D. H. Wells G. A. Smith & C. 
C. Rich in his private room. He was not well. 

Brother Candling called in & said that Judge Sinclair & his Court were in hot water & did not 


Pagel61 




know how to get out. They are wound up in there Court operations & Kirk Anderson who 
published his valley tan & made war upon us is also about wound up. He Cannot support his 
paper. 

I feel to acknowledge the Hand of God in all these things. The Lord has sustained us through the 
war and is now Sustaining us through the Courts & is thwarting all the designs of our Enemies in 
all their wicked designs against the Latter Day Saints. The Lord has given President Young 
wisdom to out general all the United States with their Armies Judges & Courts So that they have 
had no power over him or this people for which I feel to praise the name of the Lord. 

President Young wished the Twelve who went to Fillmore to inquire into the Charivaring of 
Brother Hoyt & family all night while his wife was having a Child born unto him it being the 
first Child he ever had though he had been married 26 years. Also to inquire into the Case of 
McBrides sons who Bishop Bronson was jealeous were laying plans to kill him. 

We made an estimate of some of the expenses of the war of the United States against the 
mormons. We made including soldiers teamsters & waiters for 1858: 12,730 Men 

Russel & Wardles Government freight amounted to 
20,400 Government waggons cost of each outfit $1,500 
Paid for 3,200 teamsters 480 dollars each 
Paid 4,600 soldiers $300 each 
Sum total for the Above four items 

Dec 111 spent the day in the office on History. 1 spent the evening with President Young in his 
private Room reading the Calafomia news. He had taken a warm Bath & was some better. 

12 Sunday A snowey day. 1 met with the Quorum at 12 ock. Bishop Hunter prayed. L. W. Hardy 
was mouth. 

1 met with the Quorum of the Twelve at 6 oclok. O Hyde Prayed. O Pratt was mouth. The spirit 
of God was with us & we had a good Meeting. All the Twelve were present except A Lyman & 
Lorenzo Snow. We all Called upon President Young at his private Room when the following 
Conversation took place: 

President Young said have you any message to me? O Hyde said I do not know as I have ownly 
we Came in to see you. 1 have a message to you. You are some of you members of the 
Legislature and I want you to so Conduct business in such a way that it will be exceptable unto 
the Lord and that the Devil cannot find fault with you. 

President Young asked if we had been to the Circus. None of the Twelve had been. He then said 
Thomas Williams would Cut our throat if he had the power and yet he has full houses. 1 wonder 
who supports him. 

President Young said that Martin was getting out Bills to circulate through this Country which 


$5,445,468 

$9,180,000.00 

1.536.000. 00 

1.380.000. 00 
$17,540,468.00 


Page 162 




was to speculate out of the people. He promises to pay Treasury drafts on the government when 
$400 dollar was presented to him & the people should not take it for it will be a Loss to this 
Community. I want you to Find this out yourselves & put a stop to it ore use your influence to do 
it without the peoples knowing that I said any thing about it. 

In speaking of the opposition against this work President Young said I should loose all hope if I 
did not know that God begun it & begun it in the right time and has sustained it & Carried it on 
ever since and he is able to Finish it & will do it. 

13th The Legislative Council and House of Representative met at the Social Hall in Great Salt 
Lake City at 10 oclok AM. The Council organized by appointing Daniel H. Wells President Leo 
Hawkins Chief Clerk, Joseph F Smith Sergent at Anns, John L. Smith Assistant Clerk, Samuel L 
Sprage Messenger. 

The House Organized by Appointing John Taylor Speaker Thomas Bullock Chief Clerk George 
P Bilings Sergent at Arms Patrick Linch Assistant Clerk Heber John Richards Messenger Joseph 
Bushy Foreman, Joseph Young sen Chaplain. 

Judge Smith Came forward & swore the President & officers in both Houses. Both Houses then 
adjourned to meet in the State House in Fillmore on Saturday the 18th of Dec. Both Houses 
voted to excuse the absent members untill we met at Fillmore. 

We made an estimate of the Armey as follows: 3,000 soldiers remaining in the Territory 800 to 
origon 400 to Mexico 400 to Levensworth total 4,600. Government teamsters 3,200, Cotractors 
teamsters 4,930. Sutlers & whiskey dealers 1,500 gamblers 170. General Hameys command 
2,700 total 17,100. 14,400 Came to the Territory. Contractors oxes 13 to each 4,006 waggons 
52,078 = 1,200 suttlers waggons 12 oxen each 14,400 Baggage waggons for Armey 19,200. 

While the Quorum of the Twelve met in there pray[er] Circle the Conversation turned upon the 
subject of the dictation of the spirit of God & the great importance of following the dictation of 
that spirit in all our lives. President O Hyde said he had often found it difficult to dissem between 
the dictation of the spirit of the Lord and his own desires in things which he wished 
accomplished. 

O Pratt said that a few days since while praying for the preservation of his family it Came 
forcibly to his mind about taking care of one of his boys who had broaken one of his arms but he 
put off the impression & in less than two hours he broak his arm again. 

W. Woodruff said that he had from experience learned so much of the leading & dictation of that 
spirit that he knew it was good to follow it. His life had been saved from time to time by 
following its dictates. A short time since he was impressed to go to presidet Youngs in the 
evening. He went & when he got there He found the Quorum of the Twelve assembled. And O 
Hyde & John Taylor gave an account of their mission North & He kept a record of it. 

G. A. Smith said that while He was on a mission in Virginia in 1837 it was manifest to him that 


Page 163 




He would be appointed One of the Twelve. These thoughts worried him & he thought it was an 
evil impression but it afterwords proved true. He also said I had been 3 days in the Snow & Cold 
& was Chilled through & while the man Zimri H Baxter in Nephi City went to take care of my 
Horses & Sister Baxter to get a pan of milk I felt impressed to lay hands upon their Sick Child 
which they had given over to die. I done as the spirit directed & the Child was healed instantly. 

Elder C. C. Rich then said while I was going from Los Angelos to Sanbernadeno I was strongly 
impressed to stop at a certain place over night & next day to leave the main travelled road which 
I strictly followed & by doing so I escaped being robed & Murdered by a gang of 60 assassins 
div[id]ed in three different Companies. 

Elder John Taylor said it was revealed to him he would be one of the Twelve. F. D. Richards said 
it was revealed to him that He would be appointed one of the Twelve. W Woodruff said it was 
revealed to him while on Fox Islands that he would be appointed one of the Twelve before he got 
a Letter Notifying him of his appointment. 

G. A. Smith Said that the night after Joseph & Hiram Smith was murdered A spirit Came to me 
& said Joseph & Hyrum are killed. Ant you glad of it? I was in Michigan at the time 500 miles 
from Carthage. 

O. Hyde said that the Lord had revealed to us in many ways that the anney would come in but 
our desires was so great that they should not come that we would not receive it. 

Dec 14th In Company with Lorenzo Snow, Hyram Clawson, Joseph A. Young & Patrick Lynch I 
started from President Youngs House in his Carriage drawn by four Mules for Fillmore. Several 
other Carriages started about the same day. It was a vary Cold day & vary Blustering. 

We road to Lake City & spent the night. We held a meeting with the people. I spoke to the people 
& was followed by C C. Rich L Snow F. D. Richards. I told the people to get the spirit of God & 
follow its dictates & to remember daily their prayers & to pray for the Presidency & all the 
Authorities of the Church & to pray for the President of the United States & for all men in 
Authority as the spirit of God shall dictate. We had a good meeting. Lorenzo Snow spent the 
night with me at Brother Bums. 33 m. 

15 We travelled to Pason. 33 miles. Held a meeting with the People. Their was a Division among 
the people. Some had petitioned to President Young for a New Bishop. F D. Richards spoke & I 
followed him & then C. C. Rich followed. Lorenzo Snow & myself spent the night with Brother 
Gardner. We Preached Concerning the Bishop & the people their feelings against each other. 

Brother Gardner told us that Brother Hancock said in one of his meetings that there was no 
person Stood between him & Presidet Brigham Young. He wanted the people to give their money 
to him & let him dictate their temperal Business for them. He said no person had a right to 
petition president Young against him. He makes the roads into the Canyons Contrails all the 
timber sells it to the anney works all the time Sundays. He lets the tithing property go to waste 


Page 164 




But takes Care of his own. He sells the tithing potatoes to the Army for $2 & pays the Church 75 
cts. He ordered a house to be pulled down if they would not stop a party. These are some of the 
Complaints against the Bishop. 

16th We rode to Salt Creek. 25 miles. We helda meeting with the people. Lorenzo Snow, Daniel 
Spencer, Samuel Richards & W. Woodruff spoke to the people. L. Snow & myself spent the 
night at [ ]. 

17th We travelled to the severe Baited our animals then drove to Cedar Fort [5/6?]0 miles & 
spent the night with Brother Johnson. 

18 Saturday We rode into Filmore. Took Breakfast at Broth Hoyts. We then met at the State 
House. Organized the Legislature with its officers in separate Houses. We then met in Joint 
Assembly. Received the Governors Message through the Secretary. Had it read by the Clerk. 
Dissolved the Joint Assembly. Met in separate Houses. Excused Absent members. Passed a 
Resolution adjourning the Legislature to the Social Hall in Great Salt Lake City at 10 oclok on 
Monday the 27 of Dec. 

We then returned to Brother Hoyts. Took Dinner. Then I met with Lorenzo Snow F. D. Richards 
& Daniel Spencer for the purpose of Hearing a Statement made By Brother & Sister Hoyt 
Concerning their being disturbed by a Company of the Saints. The following is their Story: 

On the 28th Sept at 10 oclok they had a Child born it being the first Child born unto them they 
having been married over 20 years. A Company of the Mormons Came & surrounded his house 
about 25 of them. They blew Homs & sang the most vulgar songs for about one hour then went 
away about an hour & returned & appeared to be more than at First. They commenced to tear 
things to peaces. Killed some hens made them squell opened the windows & flung the fowls onto 
the beds. Filled his windows with fence polls also his Chimney. Dirtied up their beds. The wind 
blew upon their Children. As fast as they would open the windows on one side they would shut 
them till they were fastened open. They poured out a Jug of vineger. They yoked up a pair of his 
oxen facing each other. They said the Bishop told them to go down & sereanade him till he 
would treat. He said the Bishop would tell him what he did say to them. He lent them a Base 
drum to go with. 

Brother Hoyt said He had talked the matter over with Bishop Brunson & had agreed to settel it. 
He also read a Letter which He had written to President Young & accused Brother Brunson of 
trying to get one of his wives away from him. The mob shot many pistols while in their 
operation. 

Our Horses were hitched up & I had to leave in the midst of their story. I talked with Brother 
Brunson & he denyed being the instigator of it. 

We then left Filmore Rode to Cedar Springs took supper & bated our animals. It began to Snow 
hard & we were fearful we would be blocked up so we all agreed to Harness up & all travel 


Page 165 




through the night which we did. Arived at the Severe at 4 oclok in the morning whare we bated. 

We Broke our Iron axletree inside of the hind wheel. We raised up the Carriage placed the end of 
the axletree between two spokes on the side of the Hub made all fast with ropes & in 10 minutes 
started again drawing our wheel as though it was locked like a sled runner. We had traveled to 
day over 50 miles & snowed nearly all night. 

19 Sunday We left the severe at about 6 oclok & travelled to the Salt Creek Settlement Called 
Nephi. Got there at 1 1 ock. We here spent the day. Joseph Young got his Carriage mended. They 
had a meeting in the evening. I did not attend but went to bed early not having slep but little for 2 
nights. 25 miles. 

After I had got to bed Brother Warren Snow & Peacock called upon me also F D & Samuel 
Richards. They informed me that One hundred soldiers had gone into Fort Ephraim. The 
Commander had Called the people together & hurranged them & through the influence of 
Benjamin Clapp had deceived the people through fair promises & got the Consent of the people 
& let the souldery in. Father James Aired & his Son had opposed it But Benjamin Clapp used all 
his influence with the people who were mostly Danes & they had let them in & rented them their 
public Carralls for four months. Benjamin Clapp had taken the Job of supplying the soldiers with 
Grain & hay at a Cheap rate & Brother Snow was afraid they would get into Manti. 

I advised Brother Snow to go diret Back to those settlements & take all the measures he Could to 
stop the proceedings & block up the way of their going into Manti. He said he would do so. 

Soon Secretary Hartnet arived with his escort & wished to Camp in the school house for the night 
which was granted him. We spent the night with Charles H Bryan. 

20th We rode to Springville & spent the night with Bishop Aaron Johnson. We preached at night 
in the new Meeting House. Had a full house. Lorenzo Snow preached. I follow him. 

21st We started at 5 oclok & drove to Great Salt Lake City at 20 minuts past 4 oclock. 57 miles. 
We Called upon Presidet Young D. H. Wells & A Carrington. I put into the Presidents Hands, 
the Govornors Message the minuts of the Legislator & gave an account of our journey &c. I then 
went home took supper returned to the Presidets & spent the evening, & spent the night at home 
having Ben absent 8 days. Travelled 300 miles averaging 37 1/2 miles per day & met with the 
Legislature & performed such business as was necessary. 300 miles. 

22d I spent the day in the office Journallizing. I reported to G. A. Smith an Account of Brother 
Hamblins mission to the Mosquises. He travelled about 300 miles from the Rio Vergin. He had 
to go about 100 miles up the Colorado before they Could Cross it. He was received rather Cooly 
at first as they had been visited by some white men who had lied to them, but they soon had 
Confidence in him. He found them located in walled Cities built of stone the Houses 3 stories 
high which were built on the Hightest mountains ownly accessible on foot or horsback. They 
have Cisterns to ketch their water for use & pack their wood on the Back of Animals. Their 


Page 166 




wealth Consists mostly in sheep & goats. They Cultivate the Earth & make their own Cloth, &c. 
But we shall have a full report soon. 

23d I spent the day in the office. I had an interview with Luke Johnson. In speaking of the spirit 
of those who are against us Lysander Gee said they were agoing to rip up things in that valley & 
they should expose us to the army. Shelton said He should expose us to the Army. Many threats 
were made by the party. Brother Johnson informed me that I had 9 of my Ews were missing out 
of my flock of sheep. 

President Young D. H. Wells G. A. Smith H. C. Kimball Joseph A & Brigham Young jr visited 
Govornor Young Cummings. 

Dec 24th Judge Sinclair manifests a disposition to make all the trouble he Can. He rules against 
all law and precedent. Christianson a polieceman had in his Custody a Man Called Domne who 
made an attack upon Christianson to kill him & Christianson killed him in self defence. A 
Cornors inquest was held over the body & it was buried. Judge Sinclair had the disintered 
examined & Christianson put into the hands of the Sherif for safe keeping. He has ruled against 
all Territorial Jurisdiction and acts in the spirits of persecution. 

25th Christmas morning I went to the office in the morning. The City seemed to be Quiet. I took 
dinner with A. O. Smoot with Mrs Woodruff & spent the evening at his house. I was informed 
that Judge Sinclair got vary drunk fell into the gutter drew a pistol upon Craig & Craig drew a 
knife upon him but both were two drunk to do any hurt. 

26 Sunday I met with my Quorum for prayer at the Historians prayer room. Brother Pugmire 
prayed. A O Smoot was Mouth. I spent the Afternoon at the presidents office. I Met with the 
Twelve. W. Woodruff Prayed. C. C. Rich was mouth. We Called upon Presidet Young & staid 
till ten oclok. D H Wells W. Woodruff John Taylor G. A. Smith O Pratt C. C. Rich & Lorenzo 
Snow was present. We Conversed upon the subjet of the Legislature & other Business. 

27 Monday I Attended the Legislature. Adjourned till tomorrow 1 1 oclok. I Called upon 
President Young with several of the 12 & others. A Copy of the valley tan was brought in 
containing the Presidents Message which was read. It was leangthy & laid out business enough 
for several Annies to attend to. I went to Brother Blackhurst with O. Hyde O. Pratt G. A. Smith 
J. Taylor & L. D. Richard & their wives to take supper. We returned home about 9 oclok. 

28th I attended the Legislature. Kirk Anderson sent a Copy of the valley tan to each member of 
the Council & we found it lying on our desks. It was moved & Canied that they all be gathered 
up & returned to the secretary. W Woodruff & B F Johnson was Appointed said Committee. 

At the adjournment of the Council we Called upon the secretary. The Govornor was present. I 
informed the secretary that we had Come as a Committee to wait upon him to say that we had 
found the valley tan on our desk & we now returned them to the secretary not out of any 
disrespect to the secretary of the message but Considering that the Editor of the valley Tan had 


Page 167 




taken an ungentlemanly Course which was calculated to stir up strife between the people & the 
Government Hence we did not wish to take it. Mr Hartnet said He had not any thing to do with it. 
It was Kirk Andersons doings. 

About this time Anderson Came in Cursing & swareing. Said that He had heard the dambest 
tirade of abuse against him in the House & he would be dambed if he did not have the Hide of 
some of them. Several in the House spoke vary plain upon the subject such as Clawson 
Cummings & O Hyde which Kirk Anderson herd. 

Mr Hartnet went with us to the Social Hall. On the way we met H B Clawson & others as a 
Committee from the House going to return their papers to the Secretary. I infonned him Mr 
Hartnet said He had Nothing to do with it. They were then returned to Kirk Anderson. 

I Called upon the Presidet a short time. I spent the evening at Brother Churches with A O Smoot 
S M Blair & Joseph Horn & Townsend & their wives. 

29th I attended the Legislature till 12 oclok. We adjourned till tomorrow at 1 1 oclok. I met in 
Committee in the Historians office. H C Kimball Called in. I was unwell with a severe Cold. 
Brother Kimball said He packed up about 25 tons of flour. Turned in 7 tons into the tithing 
office. 

30th I attended the Legislature & spent the evening at home. 

3 1st I attended the Legislature in the fore part of the day. I spent the afternoon at the Historians 
office, the presidents Office, at home & the evening at S M Blairs. The Eastern Mail arived last 
night. Brought but little news. 


2 ^ Thus ends the year of 1858. It has been an eventful year a year in which the hand of God has 
been made more visible than in any other period during the present Generation. Some of the 
Greatest events have transpired during the past year ever manifest among men. The successful 
laying of the submarene Atlantic Telegraph by which communication has been made between 
two Continents by means of an electrict wire on the bottom of the Atlantic Ocean is the most 
steupendious work ever achieved by man. Europe & America have made liberal treaties with 
China & Jappan which have opened their ports to the trade, Commerce & intercourse with the 
whole world which have been heretofore entirely Closed up for thousands of Generations. 

The Emperor of Russia has laid the foundation for the liberation of millions of surfs from a 
species of slavery which has existed for Centauries. The inhabitants of British India have risen in 
their wrath to throw off the British yoke and rivers of Blood as it were has been Caused to flow 
in that land. And the spirit of war has been poured out upon all Nations and France & other 
Nations have been anning & preparing for a Deadly Conflict. 

The whole Earth is becoming Corrupt before God. Wickedness and abominations are rapidly 


Page 168 




increasing throughout all Nations. The Gospel of Jesus Christ has been offered to all Nations By 
the Elders of Israel whereever they Could get access to the people. And the world in a great 
measure have rejected the Gospel and the Lord is with holding his spirit from the inhabitants of 
the Earth and the people are waxing worse & worse and are becomeing filled with all manner of 
lying deceavings robing whoredores, murders Blasphemies & wickedness of evry kind. Yea 
Emperors, Kings, Princes, Lords Presidents Govomors Judges and all the Rulers of the whole 
Earth as well as the people have become so Corrupt before God that He is angry with them and 
the Lord is begining to visit them with war & bloodshed & with pestilence tempest thunder 
lightning & great hail, whirlwinds & devouring fire. 

This is plainly manifest in our own Nation even the United States which is Corrupt above all 
other Nations. They have sought the destruction of the Saints of God in this land but the Lord has 
faught the battles & preserved his saints. The Lord hath done it. His work has been visible before 
our eyes and we will acknowledge] his hand therein. 

The United States Govorment sent fourteen thousand men including souldiers & teamsters to 
Utah to put to death Brigham Young Heber C. Kimball Daniel H. Wells The Twelve Apostle & 
other leaders of the Church. They travelled One thousand Miles & expended some thirty Millions 
of Dollars to accomplish this evil design even to shed the Blood of the Lords anointed. But the 
Lord Hedged up their way. They had to spend the winter in the snows of the everlasting rocky 
mountains and live upon the flesh of their animals and when they did enter our valies and Cities 
it was by the pennission of the prophets & Saints of God for whom they had Come One thousand 
miles to Slay. And instead of haveing the privilege of sheding the Blood of the Prophets in Utah 
but vary few of them have been permitted to behold their faces. 

President Buchannan also sent Judges & officers to this territory who are filled with wickedness, 
madness and abominations of evry kind. They have also laid secret plans to destroy the prophets 
& bring distress upon the people by their decrees from the Judgment seat. But the saints have 
Called upon the Lord in mighty prayer & the Lord has heard & answered them & he has taken 
away the wisdom of the Judges and their power and their folley is manifest in the eyes of the 
people and the power of God is manifest in all these things and he has preserved his Prophets 
Church & Kingdom, against all the wrath of the Presidet, Congress, their armies, Judges and all 
the Devils who enter into the tabernacles of men to fight against God & his Saints. 

Judge Sinclair has held an open United States District Court From the 4 day of Oct. up to the last 
of Dec being 88 days and tried all in their power to get up some action against Brigham Young & 
the leaders of the Church but have accomplished a solumn Nothing ownly tried to persecute 
James Fugerson & have not been enabled to do much of that for the Lord has held them so fast 
that they have not been enabled to accomplish any evil plan which they have laid. 

The God of Israel hath laid the foundation of his Church and kingdom upon the Earth in these 
last days & he has guided it by his Almighty power up to the present day. He has preserved his 
Saints in the midst of all the ware fare against them of wicked men and Devils. He is bringing to 


Page 169 




pass daily the fulfillment of the Holy scriptures & the Book of Mormon. The fullness of the 
Gentiles is fast Coming in and the Lord is fast preparing the way for the salvation of the House of 
Israel. He is withdrawing his spirit from the inhabitants of the Earth and at the same time 
inspiring his Prophets with wisdom Knowledge & understanding that they have been enabled 
through the Mercy of God to thwart all the evil designs of the wicked and ungodly who have laid 
snares for the fear of the Righteous. The signs of the Times Clearly indicate that the gentile 
Nations are ripened in iniquity and that God is about to sit in Judgment upon them Nations . 

{========================= 

A Synopsis of my labors in 1858 


I travelled one thousand nine hundred 
I Attended Thirty four Meetings 
I Preached 14 discourses 
I Attended two General Conferences 
I Attended the Prayer Circle 
I spent Eleven days giving Endowmets 
I Attended the Legislature 
I spent five days with the D. A. M. Society 
I Administered unto ten who was sick 
I wrote Fifteen letters 
I Received Eight Letters 


I spent two days with the peace Commissioners 


1,925 Miles 
34 Meetings 

14 discourses 
2 Conferences 
36 times 

1 1 days 
40 days 
5 days 
10 sick 

15 Letters 
8 Received 


I moved all my Family and Effects to provo amounting to thirty tons with my flocks & herds with 
all the inhabitants of the north Country to prepare our Cities for the burning. When peace was 
made we returned again. I spent the remainder of my time in the Historians office Compileing the 
History of the Church & of the Twelve Apostles. 


=========================} 

{========================= 

Wilford Woodruffs Journal for 1859 


} 


January 
JAN 1st 1859 

This is a vary plesant New Years morning. One year ago this morning I reflected in my own mind 
upon the scenes which lay before us as a people and asked the Question whare another new Year 
would find me and My Brethren for we were threatened with war and extermination by the 


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General Govemmet and an anney of several thousand man lay upon our borders ready at the 
opening of spring to try to begin to put their threats into Execution. But the Lord has warded off 
the blow & we still occupy our houses, gardens, orchards, fields, Cities & Tabernacle. And this is 
the Lords doing, & it is marvelous in our Eyes. And we now have the anny in our midst under 
the form of peace. We have the United States Courts in our midst who are striving to stir up strife 
in the midst of this people. 

May the Lord protect his saints through 1859 and in all time to Come from the evil design of our 
Enemies. And may he so lead the President & Congress of the United States that they shall not be 
able to accomplish any evil design against the Church, Kingdom & Zion of our God which 
dwells in these vallies of the mountains. But may the Lord so guide & Controll the helm of state 
so as to give us a State Government or esstablish the Kingdom of God on the Earth. May he 
inspire the heart of his servant Brigham Continually with power, light, & truth so that He may 
Continue to lead the Church & kingdom of God in peace & safety as he has done heretofore 
untill the saints of the Most High shall possess the kingdom in power & Glory and be prepared 
for the comeing of the Son of Man. 

I spent a part of the day in the office & the evening at home. Several of the Brethren Called in & 
spent the evening with me. Lorenzo Snow, S. M. Blair Joseph Horn & H. W. Church & their 
Lamilies were present Also A. O. Smoot & Pamily. 

2d Sunday The saints met in the Tabernacle this morning at ? 1 1 oclock for preaching it being the 
first time the saints have met for a publick meeting since the 30 day of May 1858, Being 7 
month, the longest time the Church ever remained without public meetings since its first 
organization. The organ had been removed to the center of the East wall oposite the stand. Their 
was a petition runing through the Center of the tabernacle separating Male from female. The 
females occupied the north side & the Males the South side. 

Elder Orson Pratt addressed the people 1 Hour & 50 minutes upon the Authenticity of the Book 
of Mormon & the Bible. He Compared the Strength of the two. He showed that there was hardly 
a vestige of Human testimony in exhistence to show the divin authenticity of the Bible while 
there was an abundant of testimony to prove the authenticity of the Book of Mormon. Many of 
the Gentiles were present & some of them said after meeting that his Arguments were 
unanswerable. 

At the Close of the meeting I met with my Quorum at the Historians office. G. D. Grant prayed & 
E. F. Sheets was mouth. 

The Eastern Mail came in & Brought a large amount of papers. The tone against the saints seems 
to be much milder & more favorable than it has been. 

I met with the Quorum of the Twelve. E Snow was mouth in opening & F. D. Richards was 
mouth in the Circle. 


Pagel71 




3d I met with the Legislature. I attended a land meeting at the 16 ward Meeting to make a new 
fence around the pasture. 

4th I Called at the office at 9 oclok. I attended the Legislature and during the day the Grand Jury 
decided that Christiansen was not guilty & wrote on the inditement Ignored. The Deseret 
Agricultural Board of Directors met at the House of Brother Winder. 

S. M. Blair was present. He was so overjoyed that Christiansen was liberated that He was filled 
with excitement. He hollowed shouted horaw for Israel. He was so excited all the evening that 
we Could [do] no business. He said that He had suffered so much through the trial as that Court 
had tried to make Brigham Young Daniel H Wells A O Smoot & many others accessory to the 
death of Andrew Bumard Called Diminy who attempted to kill Christianson who was on duty as 
a polieceman & Christianson killed him in self defence. 9 of the Jury was against Christianson & 
12 for Clearing him. Two of the Jury that was for Condemning him viz David H. B[eck?] & G 
W. Bayliss insulted Blair & Blair drove them both out of the street. 

Captain Tyler & Mr Tabbott Came in the Council. Capt Tylor said in the Globe that they were 
going to send over 24 Commissioned officers of the Armey & Hold a Court Marshall in this City 
& hang Just who they pleased. Govornor Cummings had to meet with the mad Gentiles to keep 
them quiet. Many of them were mad because Christion[son] was Cleared. Their was quite a 
sensation through the City. 

5th The Eastern Mail Came in & Brought a Letter from Joseph E Johnson saying that He would 
remove with his Family & press to Deer creek & form a New Settlement & esstablish a New 
paper Called the Mountain Echo. I spent the day in the Legislature. 

6th I spent most of the day in the Legislature. I spent the evening at S. M. Blairs with Bishop 
Hunter A. O. Smoot Lorenzo Snow & many others. 

7th * <1 had a difficulty to settle this morning.> I attended the Legislature. I was infonned this 
morning that Mr Burr had started for the states with an express to Washington to get Gov 
Cumings Removed But I do not think they will make much of it. The distreot Court set today 
upon the Case of James Ferguson who Challenged two of the Jury which was argured during the 
afternoon. 

8th I met with the Legislature and spent the afternoon in the presidents office. I herd a Bill red 
and discussed concerning the appointmet of Jurors, the subject of appointment of the Judges in 
the several Counties. It was resolved not to appoint any member of the Legislator as a Judge in 
any County. Lorenzo Snow wanted Smith for Judge at Box Elder instead of Cordon at willow 
Creek. 

Jan 9th Sunday I attended meeting in the Tabernacle. The House was full & Crouded in the Male 
department. Elder Orson Pratt spoke again to the people upon evidence of the Book of Mormon. 
He took for his text the 4th vers of the 29 Chapter of Isaiah. He spoke about two hours Confining 


Page 172 




himself mostly to this Chapter. He spoke vary plainly in the power of God. There were many 
Gentiles present and gave good attention. No man has power to gainsay his doctrin. 

At the Close of the meeting I met with my Quorum for prayer. Richard Bentley prayed & S. M. 
Blair was mouth in the Circle. 

At the Close I went to president Youngs office & spent the afternoon. The presidency several of 
the Twelve & others were present. In speaking of the state of affairs in this City President Young 
said that the Brethren had bourn a good Deal but it was wisdom for them to still bear and not get 
up a fuss untill the anny was out of the way. But a person was Justified in defending his own life. 
If a man draws a weapon upon him he is not required to wait untill he is shot before he shoots. 

I met with the Twelve at 6 oclok. O Hyde was unwell with the flux & did not dress. F. D. 
Richards was not well & did not dress. Erastus Snow came late & did not dress. O. Pratt W. 
Woodruff G. A. Smith E. T. Benson & Lorenzo Snow dressed. O. Pratt prayed. W. Woodruff 
was mouth & while praying O Pratt Fainted & fell on the floor or rather eased himself down on 
the floor & lay their untill we got through. 

10th I spent the day in the Legislator. 

1 1th I spent the forenoon in the Legislator in the Council. The House adjourned to make room 
for the District Court who occupied the lower room, on the case of James Ferguson who was 
taken up for intimidating Judge Stiles. This Case has given the Judge Sinclair much trouble. It 
has been in the Court 100 days & the Judge has set upon it 38 days. James Ferguson was making 
a speech in the forenoon. The Atturney Wilson followed. The Case submitted to the Jury which 
set till 8 1/2 past. Calvin Foss & Stone hung out till that hour. Then they brought in a verdict ol 
not guilty. The Judge got vary tiered of it. 

The Eastern Mail Came in. Brought papers to the 10 dec. 

I met with the rush valley Herd Company at the Historians office there being present W. 
Woodruff Luke Johnson J. W. Cummings J. C. Little L. W. Hardy. We resolved to inclose 250 
acres of Grassland. 250 Acres would be 200 Rods square. Also 100 Acres fanning land 126 
49/100 Rods square or 140 Acres fanning land 154 91/100 Rods square. We agreed to make a 
half ditch around the grass land and a Cedar Stake fence around the fanning land to be done this 
spring. The ditch would be 50 cts per Rod the Cedar fence $1 or $1.50. 

We had a time of rejoicing in the liberation of Gen James Ferguson. 

Jan 121 attended the Legislature & spent the afternoon & evening in picking up papers for 
Binding. 

13th I attended the Legislator. We went into Joint session and appointed all the Judges & Notary 
publics in all the Counties in this Territory which was organized. Luke Johnson was appointed 
Probate Judge of Shambip Co. & Samuel Benyon Notary Public of Shambip Co. We have had a 


Page 173 




steady Snow Stonn all day. 

14th I spent the day in the Legislature. I wrote 4 } Letters one to I. F. Carter one to Ozem T 
Woodruff one to Joseph Harris Rochester New York & sent him $6 for 16 subscribers for the 
Genessee Fanner. I send this letter by John Y Green. I also send by ? Him $186 to deliver to me 
in Great Salt Lake City one of Hodges Free & Co One horse Cast Iron virtical Mill for grinding 
sugar cane. The wait is 650 lbs 20 cts per lb freight $130 price of Mill $56 total $186. President 
Young sent the above Money with some of his by Bother Green to Brother Kessler to bring on 
the Mill for me. I put $6 in gold in the Letter to Mr Harris & sealed it up and r[ush?] it in the post 
office in the States after Brother Green gets there or it is delivered to H. S. Eldridge to mail. He 
will mail all my letters on their arival. 

15th } I wrote a Letter to J. M. Bernhisel saying that He need not send me the sugar & Coffee but 
send the reeds and indigo. I delivered the $186 to John Y Green for the Mill. He gave his recept 
for the Same which is in the hands of Thomas W. Elebeck. He also sent for a [S/L?]acrarometer 
which cost $ 1 which I did not pay for. 

I attended the Legislature at the Close of which I called upon the secretary Mr Hartnet but He 
was to drunk to do business with so I went home. 

16th Sunday I attended meeting at the Tabernacle. O Pratt Continued his lectures upon the 
evidences of the Book of Mormon. He preached one the most Convincing interesting sermons I 
ever heard. He Quoted the 49 chapter of Genesis. He spoke of the Blessings of Jacob upon the 
Head of Joseph also upon Ephram & Manasseh and the Blessing of Moses upon Joseph land & 
the the word of the Lord through Ezekiel Concerning the sticks & records of Judah & Joseph 
becoming one in the Hands of the Lord in the Last days and Ephraim becoming a multitude of 
Nations in the midst of the Earth which was in America. He called strongly upon the Gentiles to 
open their Eyes throw off the veil & prepare for the Great day of the Lord which was nigh at the 
door. I opened by prayer <but I could not pray much>. I met with my Quorum for prayer. Arsa 
Hinkly prayed. R. T. Burton was mouth. 

The Eastern Mail Came in. I spent most of the Afternoon in the Presidents office reading the 
papers. I saw a Copy of the Book of Mormon published by James O Wright & Co 377 Broadway 
New York to sell for speculation. He had petitioned to Congress to make an appropriation to 
purchase his Edition & Circulation it gratis to the people. I felt to rejoice that the Gentiles had 
Commenced to published the Book of mormon that the word might be circulated among the 
people if it is done through Envy. President Young said that he wanted O Pratt [to] take the Book 
of Mormon to the Historians office which the Gentiles had published & Compare it with the third 
Edition American, & see if they were Correct. 

I met with the Twelve in the prayer Circle. O Hyde prayed. J. Taylor was mouth. I went with O. 
Hyde O. Pratt J Taylor G. A. Smith & L. Snow to Presidet Youngs and spent one hour with him 
in conversing upon the subject of the Book of mormon and News by the mail. 


Page 174 



17th I Called upon Governor Cummings & secretary Hartnett in the morning to get a list of his 
expendatures to put in the appropriation] Bill. I attended the Legislature. I Called at the 
secretaris office to get the Items of the expenditures to make out the appropriation Bill. 

I spent the evening at Brother Horns it being his birth day. He made a feast for his friends. Elder 
John Taylor read the New York Herrald of Dec 17th 1858 which is full of war. The British 
Government '? has boarded our steamer & Blockaded the mexican ports stoped the American 
transit rout & war with England & France is inevitable. 

18th I attended the Legislature and spent a short time in the evening at the Presidents office. The 
subject of the Allied fleet in the gulf & on the Mexican Cost was the subjet of Conversation. 
President Young said they were vary anxious to shoot & they would have the privilege of doing 
all they would want. D. H. Wells A Carrington & others were present. 

19th I attended the Legislature. 

I spent the evening at President Young. W Woodruff J Taylor O Hyde & C. C. Rich of the 
Twelve President Young conversed upon the subject of the present position of the United States 
in Connexion with England & France in relation to the South American Question. He said If I 
had been President of the United States 7 years ago I would have disbanded all of the armey and 
expended the same amount of money in building a Navy of armed Steamers. I would have setled 
the Southern Mexico with americans & bought out the Mexicans & finally annexed it to the 
United States. And now if we have war with England the United States will have to send their 
armies by Land. 

He also said I have found out of Late what I have said before that the British Government sent 
four regiments to Lake superior to stop the mormons from going into the British possessions & 
told the Govomor that England would support him with all the British force if necessary to keep 
the mormons from entering the British possessions. 

President Young said we are here in these valley whare we shall stay untill the Lord shall lead us. 
We shall never be driven from these Mountains I do not believe. 

Elder Hyde told a dream which He had a short time since. Thought that He was riding on a horse 
through a vast water like a roaring [...jterock. His horse had to wade in deep water one narrow 
strip of land in order to keep from Drowning but he got out safe. 

20 I attended the Legislature & we sat till 8 oclok at * night. We had a Petition again to day from 
the Rush valley settlement wanting the herd grant to Brigham Young & co Repealed. President 
Young said let it be repealed & we Repealed it through both Houses without any oposition. 
<[Men/many lied?] about it>. [ ] Miller [ ] signed the petition. 

21st I spent the whole day & night in the Legislature till 3 1/2 oclock in the morning. The 
Govornor remained up untill all the Bills were signed except a Liquor Bill & united Shambip 


Page 175 




County with Toille. Those are the ownly Bill that the Govomor has vetoed. We turned off much 
business during the Last 24 hours. We adjourned to meet on the second Monday in Dec 1859 in 
Great Salt Lake City. The secretary refused to pay the members ownly the identical Siting days. 
This Created some Considerable [ ] in the Assembly and an unusual thing. The Assembly 

offered a resolution of thanks to Govornor Cummings for his wise policy in keeping the peace & 
maintaining the Laws in this Territory. I went home at 4 oclok. 

22d We met at 2 oclok not as a Legislative assembly for that adjourned last night but we met to 
take into Consideration the Conduct of Secretary Hartnet who had refused to pay any member of 
the Legislature except the identical days they had set. He would throw out Sundays and all day 
while travelling From Filmore to Great Salt Lake City after the adjournment From Fillmore or if 
any one was sick or excused for a day. This is an unheard of Course in Congress or in the 
Legislature of any State or Territory. 

A Committee was appointed to wait upon the Secretary & Govornor but they Could not see them 
& adjourned till 6 oclock. We met at 6 oclock. Had a full house. The Committee reported that the 
Secretary would not pay ownly the sitting days. E. D. Woolley made speech & entered into a 
Dialogue with the Members which showed up the Secretary in a vary unf[avor]able light. He was 
using partiality. J. W. Cummings testified that he had paid him his full milege & per Deium. 
Many remarks were made by the members. We adjourned about 9 oclock. 

23d Sunday I attended meeting at the Tabernacle. Elder O. Pratt Preached upon the Kingdom of 
God to be set up in the Last days as spoken off by Daniel. He spoke in the power of God much to 
the edifycation of the people. 1 met with my Quorum in the prayers Circle. John T Caine Prayed 
& David O. Calder was mouth in the Circle. 

1 spent the Afternoon in the Presidents office looking over the papers as the Eastern Mail came in 
last night. There was not much news in the papers. There was a Bill in Congress to grant each 
Territory the right to Elect theire own officers including the Govomor, Judges, Marshall, & all 
other officers & they must bear their own expenses & not the General Government. 

1 asked President Young If Robert Scholes & Susan C. Woodruff my second daughter might be 
married. He had no objections to it. <He asked me about Phebe. I told him all about her. He 
remembers her and said how if he had any wish to take any more he said we should be pressed 
for an [offer?]. > 

I met with the Quorum of the Twelve for Prayer. C. C. Rich Prayed. F. D. Richards was mouth. 
We Conversed till 9 oclok upon the subject of the Education of the people in this Territory & the 
furnishing of the people with Books. They estimated that it would Cost about One million of 
Dollars to furnish Books & Stationery to educate what people there was now in the Territory. In 
speaking of the Deserett Alphabet they thought we would have to Continue the English Books as 
well as the Deserett Alphabet as we could not print but few Books in the Deseret Alphabet. 

24th I spent the fore part of the day in the office but all the desks were painted fresh & the paint 


Page 176 




made me sick. I met in the evening with the Deseret Agricultural & Manufacturing society at 
Bishop Hunters. We appointed an Agent for the society. I [] Received a Letter from Dr Bemhisel 
& two papers. 

25th I spent the day Journalizing in the office. I spent the evening mostly with President Young 
Warren Snow & George Pecock from Sanpete Came in. President Young enquired where 
Arrowpene was. Snow said he had just returned from the Anney & wished to see Brigham 
Young before he went back to Sanpete. The Anny showed him their big guns. Arrowpene told 
them some mormons some Utes, & some Americans lied. 

President Young said that the secretary had no right to refuse to pay the Legislature but he should 
pay them for the 40 days session. This was the Custom of all Legislators. 

26 We have had a steady snow Stonn all day. I * Called in the Presidents office a short time. 
President Young was well. 1 spent the evening at home. 1 Carried to the Book binder to be bound 
the following works: The Monnon Vol 1, 2, 3, Nauvoo Neighbor Vol 2, & 3, Frontier Guardian 
Vol. 1, 2, 3, Western Standard vol. 1, 2, New York Messenger Vol. 2, all up to No. 20, Deseret 
News Vol 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, & 7. 1 also gave him two News papers Dated 1806 & 1814 & several 
others for binding Also the Seer vol 1, vol 2, 8 Numbers. 

27 ^ 1 called upon the Secretary with Lorenzo Snow to get our pay. He paid me $ 105 per diem & 
$.50 for Milege $155. 

<1 conversed with Brother Snow upon the good of his taking Phebe for his wife.> 

The Secretary Still owes me $15 for the 5 days while going to Fillmore. The Secretary takes a 
strange Course. He pays some their Full per diem $120 others He pays $105 and other Less. 

1 paid my tithing to Brother Calder $15.50. 1 settled with Bishop Hoagland my tithing which 
amounted to $205.74. 1 had paid it all except $20.50 which 1 setteled with an order to that 
amount from [ ]. 

1 spent the evening at home, ft had snowed all day. Wilford Robert, Susan, & Delight all went 
over to Fort Harriman through the snow Storm. Elder Lorenzo Snow spent the evening with me 
till midnight. <He had some diversion with Phebe.> 

Jan 28th 1 spent the forenoon in the office. 1 was not well. 1 delivered to W. W. Phelps the 
Nautical Almanac of J M Bernhisels for 1860. Their will be a great Eclips of the Sun 17th July 
1860. * S. M. Blair Conversed with President Young upon the subject of Manufacturing sugar 
molasses, tobaco & hemp. He wishes companies to enter into the business upon a large scale so 
as to supply the Utah Market instead of Bringing it from abroad. He thought the Deseret 
Agricultural & manufacturing society should enter into this Business, and set the example th[...] 
us. 

29th 1 spent the day scraping in the office. 1 attended the Meeting of the D. A. M. society. We 


Page 177 




formed a Company to engage in raising sugar Cane & tobaco. W. Woodruff S. M. Blair A. O. 
Smoot W. C. Stains form the Company to Commence with & other may be added to it. Bishop 
Edward Hunter L W Hardy & J. C. Little for[m] a Company to engage in the raising of Hemp. 

30th Sunday I was quite unwell. I did not attend the Meeting. John Taylor preached upon the first 
principles of the gospel in the Tabernacle. I met with my prayer Circle at 2 oclok. I did not dress. 
R. L. Campbell prayed. Bishop Hunter was mouth in the Circle. I did not meet with the Twelve. 
E. T. Benson prayed. Erastus Snow was mouth in the Circle. 

$ $ At half past 6 oclok P.M. I gave my Daughter Susan Cornelia Woodruff to Robert Scholes 
and Joined them in the Holy bonds of Matrimony. This is the first Child I ever gave in marriage. 

The eastern mail Came in. I looked over the papers but found but little news. I [ ]. 

3 1st I spent a part of the day in the presidents office looking over the papers the remainder of the 
day in the office. 

I attended the regency at President Youngs during the evening. D. H. Wells spoke upon the 
subject of the Deseret Alphabet. Urged the adopting of the Deseret Alphabet into our scholes as 
soon as possible. 

The subject of introducing a uniform Class of school Books into our Territory. Brother O Hyde 
presented an Epistle for this purpose. He recommended Rays Arithmetic Towns speller & 

Definer 1, 2, 3, & 4 Readers of Towns & his Grammar School Reader, & Kirkham Grammar. D. 
H. Wells Advocated Websters spelling Book But Towns was prefered by most of the board. 

I informed the board that I Could get from Sanbon & Carter of Portland all those works which 
they were manufacturing at a Cheap rate that that was the class of Books now in use throughout 
the New England States. This was done through the Common Consent of a Convention of 
teachers who sat at Portland. 

President Young spoke upon the subjet of the New Alphabet. He said I think we are the Head & 
not the tail. And now if I had my way I will tel you what I would do. I would put books into the 
hands of Children in this Territory printed in the Deseret Alphabet. I dont want many Books to 
leam Children. I told the Bishops when I first Came to this Country to build their school houses 
on a plan which I gave them. There has been many wings built but not a Centre building in the 
Territory. 

I would Classify all the Children. I would put the Little Children all together & I would take a 
girl or some one Capable of teaching them & I would have a good Black board and I would teach 
the Alphabet upon that. One book would be enough in the Room. I do not believe in putting 
Books into the hands of Little Children to pour over & make them sit on a hard Bench untill they 
ake all over. If I was a Teacher I would make them rise up & march around the house and I 
would try to interest their minds so they would delight to leam. 


Pagel78 




But many persons who have learning sufficient to teach a school yet they are not fit to teach 
Children. As soon as a Child does sumthing that does not pleas the teacher He begins to pound 
the child with a ruler over the Head & back or slaps him in the side of the Head with his hand. 
This is not the way to treat Children. 

You put a work into the hands of a Jerman Frenchman Dane or Sweed or any other Nation 
printed in the Deseret Alphabet & in a little time they will all read and spell alike much sooner 
than they Could learn a new language. Several of the brethren spoke. D. H. Wells said that he 
was satisfied that the Lord had inspired the mind of President Young in this matter. 

February 

Feb 1st A. O. Smoot S. M. Blair & myself Called upon President Young to get Council 
Concerning our Joint Company in raising sugar Cane & tobaco. He said he would advise us to 
form a company of one and not have a parcel of Books to keep and a company to settle with. The 
partnership is a bad ship to sail in. So we took his Council dissolved partnership and Concluded 
to go upon our own hook. I spent the night with [ ]. 

2d I spent the fore part of the day in the office scraping. I [] Called upon Elias Smith. He gave me 
an account of the gold company explosion which was a Rich affair. Mr Mogo had a Brewery at 
the foot of the mountain near the warm Springs at the South End of the the Great Salt Lake 
valley. He wanted to sell his Brewery at a high price so he came to Great Salt Lake City & 
gathered together about a dozen merchants & others among whom was Abel Gilbert, Judge 
Sinclair, Secretary Hartnet & other dignitaries and Mr Mogo told them that He had found gold. 
He addressed them sumthing like the following: 

The mormons have hunted all this Country over the Hills & dales for gold. They no find him 
none at all. But I find him plenty, heap more than in Calafomia. I fraid mormon get him. Now me 
friends I want you to Join me & take possession of him. Me sell you me place. You go with me 
& get him. He heap of gold. 

The Company not dreaming of a salt or being decieve agreed to buy the place. It was put in /3 0/ 
shares of one thousand dollars each. Mr Gilbert bought 8 shares Hartnet 2 shares & so [on] untill 
he was paid $30,000. 

The Company started off in the night secretly so as not to be seen and went And Camped at 
Mogos Brewery. Mogo said one must Stand guard so the mormon no see him. Mr Brookie 
Stands guard all night in the Cold swareing about the Cold weather. 

At 3 oclok the party was Called & Climed the Mountain with spads & sacks to dug into the hole 
filled their sacks with mud dirt & packed it on their backs down the mountain to Mogoes spring 
& got some old pans & began to wash the dirt. 

Brookie stands with a magniffing glass to his eye watching for the gold. The rest stand around in 


Page 179 




the Circle watching with great anxiety when the following Conversation ensues: Gilbert Brookie. 
"What do you see? "Nothing but mud." There there what is that? Nothing but mud by G-d. Mogo 
goes & brings another washer. Another bag is put in & washed. Brookie with his glass watching 
intently. Brookie what do you see? Nothing but mud by G-d. When the last sack of dirt was 
washed Gilbert hollows out at the top of his voice with his hands on his hips & his hair standing 
up like hedg hogs quills Brookie what do you see? Nothing but mud by GOD." Gilbert we are 
sold by God we are sold by God, & the Company mounted their Carriages & started like a 
stree[k?] for Great Salt Lake City feeling much $30,000 poorer than when they started. 

Mogo puts for Camp Floyd with thirty thousand dollars & leaves his good Friends to dig all the 
gold they Can out of his mault tubs. 

I spent the evening at Brother Smoots with a party of friends. The mayor A. O. Smoot gave us an 
exhibition of the gold Company explosion. J Taylor J Horn F. D. Richards John Sharp, Bishop 
Hunter, Dunbar & W Woodruff with their Ladies & Col Little with their Ladies Composed the 
Company. We broke up at about 12 oclok. 

The Committee of the board of Regents met at Presidet Youngs & Continued to write Christ 
sermon on the Mount on the black Board. 

3d I called at the office in the morning & spent the day scraping. I spent the evening at home. The 
young folks had a party at our house till midnight. The Regency Committee met at Presidency 
Youngs & spent the evening on the Deserett Alphabet. 

4th I gave bonds in the penal sum of $5,000 for the faithful performance of my duty as Inspector 
of the Penetentiary. Jeter Clinton & James MCknight were my bondsmen. I filed in the office of 
the Auditor of public accounts viz Wm. Clayton at Capt Hoopers Office. 

Luke Johnson is in this morning From * Rush Valley with Onnus Bates. I was informed that Gov 
Cummings would not sign a Bill repealing the Rush valley herd ground. He would not sign away 
the rights of men. I spent most of the day in the office scraping. 

5th In Company with Luke Johnson & Son I rode to Samuel Benyons, took dinner then rode to 
John Benyons. We walked out 4 miles to Brother Benyons Herd of sheep & help him drive them 
in. I had lost 10 sheep 9 Ewes & 1 weather & they were in his flock & I wished to get them. We 
spent the night with him. 

Feb 6 <Sunday> As soon as It was light enough to see we Commenced to examine Brother 
Benyons herd of Sheep to try to find my own. I found the number which I had lost with my ear 
mark but Brother Johnson had put a Brand of a J on the forehead & it did not show ownly on five 
& Brother Benyon did not wish me to take ownly the five that showed the J But the other five 
belonged to me as much as those which I took. We put the 5 we got into Samuel Benyons Heard 
being 4 yearling Ewes & 1 Black Weather with left ear Croped & a hole th[rough?] the right ear. 
We then rode Back to the City. 24 mi. 


Page 180 




My Quorum met in the After noon. [ ] Prayed [and?] [ ] was mouth. 

I Called in to the presidets office & President Young made some remarks. Elder O Hyde told a 
dream which he had last fall. He saw the prophet Joseph who told him we should Conquer in the 
first Campaign. President Young we shall Conquer all the time if we do right for I Can tell you 
the time has \ Come when the Lord will sit to Judge the Nations and he will Controll things in 
such a manner that the people of the world will not understand that the Lord has any thing to do 
with it, no more than the Jews did in the days of the Savior. He said their are some officers in this 
City from the Armey. Some Companies?] that wish to kill some men thinking that will start up a 
General war and we must be on the watch. 

Mr Wm. Martin told S. M. Blair that Benjamin Clapp & about 40 others in sanpete was going to 
Calafomia. Martin had Bought Boxes heard out to fit them out. 

Italy was making a Demonstration against Austria and France was sustaining Italy in it. The 
Papers say that the Government does not sustain Sinclair in his Chair [ charge ] to the Jury in 
Utah. 

President Young said He dreamed that President Buchanan sent him a fine time peace saying you 
may now regulate your own time. I expect He will Soon send us the time peace or pass the act 
giving Utah as well as other Territories the right to Elect their own officers which I Consider to 
be the time peace. The Govornor may soon Call the Legislature to gether and Elect their own 
officers and Regulate their own affairs. 

I met with O. Hyde O. Pratt & C C Rich of the Twelve in the prayer room. O. Hyde prayed. O 
Pratt was mouth. We Conversed upon the things of the Kingdom of God. Spoke of prayer & 
fasting. O. Pratt said that He had often wished that He Could get faith enough to enjoy the 
Blessings the ancient Apostles Enjoyed. He said Joseph taught that unless the Apostles and 
Elders of this Church did fast & pray untill they Could get the Heavens opened unto them so they 
Could see the face of the Lord their testimonies would not be worth much to this generation. 
Brother Hyde moved that we asked the privilege of Presidet Young to fast and pray as a Quorum 
in the Endowmet House for one week to which we all agreed. 

Feb 7 I spent the day scraping. I met with the board of Directors in the evening. We Elected J. C. 
Little Treasurer & agreed to talk with Wm. G. Mills for Corresponding Secretary & T Bullock 
for secretary. James A Little made a good report of his Travels & lectures. 

8th Luke Johnson Started home this morning. I spent the day scraping. I spent the evening with 
Presidet Young & the Committee of the Regency. They have Commenced a Dictionary. Are at 
work on it. I Called upon Leo Hawkins. He was vary poorly. 

9th A plesant morning. I spent the day in the office scraping. I Spent the night at home reading 
with my family. 


Pagel81 




10th We had a hard snow storm last night. Their is some 5 inches of snow this morning. I spent 
the day scraping which finished?] up the winters mails. I spent the evening at Presidents Youngs 
exerciseing on the black board till 10 oclok. 

1 1th I Spent the day in the office. S. M. Blair Called in & said to me that Govornor Cummings 
told him that He was going to the States & thought Col Johnson was going also. Govornor 
Cummings has been infonned that Congress intended to Repeal our organic Act organizing Utah 
Territory. What 'T they intend doing with it I am not infonned. 

Elder G. A Smith arived home at 7 oclok. He Called upon President Young a short time. 

The Committee of the Regency spent the evening with President Young writing Hebrew in the 
deseret Alphabet on the black board for exercise. I spent the evening at home teaching my Family 
the Deseret Alphabet. 

121 spent the day in the office examining letters for History. I Spent the evening with the board 
of directors of the D A & M Society. We appointed Thomas Bullock our secretary as R Campbell 
had resigned in Consequence of a multiplicity of business. } I wrote a Letter to Joseph Harris & 
sent 1 subscriber. 

13th Sunday I attended meeting at the Tabernacle. Gilbert Clements Preached upon the first 
principles of the gospel. Was followed by Elder O. Hyde with a strong exertation. He objected to 
any person selling whiskey & then Coming into this [desk?] to preach which Brother Clements 
had done. Yet he did not Call him by name. 

I met my Quorum. My son Wilford Prayed & I was mouth in the Circle. The first Patriarch of the 
Church Joseph Smith sen. blessed me & my wife Phebe. He said I should have sons who should 
bear the Holy Priesthood & be great men in the Earth & be honorable men in Zion. While he was 
praying I thought of my Blessing. 

I spent an hour with President Young in the afternoon. He spoke upon the subject of the Book 
published by Mother Smith Called Joseph Smith the Prophet. He said he wished us to take up 
that work & revise it & Correct it that it belonged to the Historians to attend to it that there was 
many fals statements made in it and he wished them to be left out and all other statements which 
we did not know to be true, and give the reason why they are left out. G. A. Smith & Elias Smith 
should be present. That Book makes out William Smith according to Mother Smith’s statement to 
be full of the Holy Ghost & the power of God while at the same time I herd him say in the 
presence of Heber C. Kimball while Joseph Smith was a prisioner in the hands of his enemies 
and I said that God would deliver him. William Smith said Dam him Joseph Smith ought to have 
been hung up by the neck years ago j and Dam him he will get it now any how. 

President Brigham Young said Wm. Smith is the most wicked man I ever saw in my life. He has 
been filled with all manner of wickedness. When I was in Nauvoo I Commenced to build me a 
Carriage. William got up a rumor that I was Finishing a Carriage for my own use which Joseph 


Page 182 




had Commenced for his mother. Then Mother Smith soon reported that I was building her a 
Carriage and the first time she got me in Company she asked me for that Carriage. I did not care 
much about the carriage but I was sorry to have her take that Course. 

W Woodruff remarked that Mother Smith was under the influence of Wm Smith and the spirit of 
Aposticy which was in Nauvoo. President Young said yes I do not think the Lord would impute 
Evil to her and I shall meet with her in Eternity and I am sure I shall not bring an Accusation 
against her. 

Elder O Pratt published that work & bought it of A. W. Babbitt at a high Price. We had a Copy of 
it in our office. It is marvellous that He should have published it without my Council. Many other 
remarks were made by President Young. (See private Journal.) 

I met with the Twelve in the prayer Circle. I opened by prayer. G. A Smith was mouth. We 
Conversed upon a variety of subjects. We agreed to meet as a Quorum a week from tomorrow for 
prayer and fasting. Letters were written to John Taylor and Lorenzo Snow to meet with us. 

\ During the evening Bishop Heywood & Richard Balantine came before the Twelve and made a 
report of their doings at Salt Creek. They had got into a difficulty with the Bishop & people 
sumthing in the following manner: They Claimed to be acting as Missionaries sent by Brother 
Kimball or Brother Hyde in preaching in that place. Brother Balantyne did not think He was 
received as a missionary should be and He told the people the history of that place. Showed that 
they had been in the habit of rejecting the servants of God. This gave offence to the Bishop & 
people in Connexion with other things, and he would not make satisfaction and teachers was sent 
to laboured with them. Brother Balantine called upon the Bishop Bigler & he Considered that he 
was grossly insulted and he told Br Balantyne to leave his house or he would break his Jaw. 
Brother Bigler had written a letter upon the subjet. Said that Balantyne had taught that Heywood 
was the President of the place & that Balantyne had privately taught the people that Brigham 
Young would be massacreed by the armey &c. 

The Twelve decided after Hearing the case that they would dismiss Elders Heywood & Balantyne 
from any further missionarys duties at Present & G. A. Smith wrote to Bishop Bigler saying that 
the Twelve thought that He would have a more salutary influence with kind words and looks 
instead of a blow with the fist or a kick &c. 

14th } [] We found about one foot of snow on the ground this morning. The Eastern mail came in 
this morning. I spent an hour in the Presidets office looking over the mail but we did not find 
much News. I received one paper & a letter from Elder Lorenzo Snow, and a letter to his sister E. 
R. Snow which I delivered to her and had some Conversation with her Concerning her Brother 
Lorenzo. I wrote to Brother Snow an answer to his Letter. 

I spent the evening in the office. G.A.S was present & herd the Book Entitled Joseph Smith the 
prophet red and found many errors in it. 


Page 183 




I had a conversation with D Huntington upon the subject T of a conversation with Arrowpene & 
Ben Simons as follows: Arrowpene had Been to Camp Floyd for several days. He Came to 
Dimick Huntington & spent the night also Ben Simons. They lay and whispered to gether all 
night and Brother Huntington said he was full of Hell. Arrowpene was sullen and he said in the 
morning the mormons was the Cause of the death of Pintets. Huntington asked him who told him 
so. He was silent a while then said Nobody. H. Yes sombody told you so. Was it the Black 
bearded man? He said yes. Then Ben Simons Said that Dr Hurt had said that the Monnons had 
teased the Govornor to send the soldiers to Chastize them the Indians & this was the Cause why 
they shot Pintets. Ben Simons said some body had got to die for Shooting at him last winter in 
the mountains. He did not say who it would be. Their is no dout but what Dr Hurt has tried all the 
time to stir up the Indians to war against [ ] the morning Arrowpene said that He Could not 

tell what He should do untill the snow should go off. 

151 spent the day on History and the evening at home. In the evening Elder H C. Kimball & D. 

H. Wells Called during the evening G. A. Smith made out an account of the Early History of the 
Smith Family for Brother Kimball History. 

} 16 I spent the day in the office on History. I wrote a letter to John Bennion about sheep. I met at 
the 8th school house at a water meeting. We Elected Br Nobles as the first water master over the 
Canida ditch Brother Sanders over another ditch Wm. Smoot over another ditch & Brother 
Turnbow water master over the Wilen ditch. 

17th I spent the day on the History. In the evening Brother Fox arived from Rush valley. Some of 
the soldiers have been killing some Cattle of the brethren & insulting the people. 

18 It Commenced snowing about 8 oclok from the North with strong wind. The air was filled 
with snow. I spent the day on History. President Young Called upon us a few minutes and left 
with G. A. Smith. I spent the evening at Home & red a Book entitled Revolution in Russia. 

Feb 19 The earth is Coverd with snow this morning. I spent the day on History. I met with the 
board of Directors of the D. A. & M. society. We regulated the premium list and appointed the 
Committies over the various Classes. 

20th Sunday I attended meeting at the Tabernacle. Jacob Gates spoke first & gave a good 
exertation & was followed by Elder O Pratt who spoke much to the Edefication of the people. At 
the Close of the Meeting I met with my prayer Circle. A Hoagland prayed & J. C. Little was 
mouth. 

I Called upon President Young a short time. E. T. Benson ? C. C. Rich Erastus Snow Came in. 
President Young said their was a Hand Bill stuck up in the City for a Ball with Thomas Williams 
Name to it. I have had a ticket or invitation to Go to the Ball and it is rumoured that Col Johnson 
would attend. But if Col Johnson waits for me to m[ake?] a Ball and bear the expenses of it & 
invite him to in order to see him He will wait a good while. And if Col Johnson is the man I take 


Page 184 




him to be I do not think He will come over to Join these Rowdies in their Balls. 

There is many of this Church who does not know the diference between inviting our Enemies, 
the Gentiles, or the wicked to Join in our feast or dances, or going to their parties & being under 
their dominion. If we invite a wicked man to our dance we preside over him. If we go to his party 
He presides over us and has an influence over us. If Col Johnson will stay whare he is and 
maintain his own Ground I have no objection. I mean to stay whare I am and maintain my own 
Ground by the help of the Lord. 

I met with the Twelve in the Circle. C. C. Rich prayed & E. T. Benson was mouth. We made 
some arangments about preparcing for a Prayer & Fasting meeting of the Twelve Apostles. 

21 Feb 1859 The Twelve Apostles met at the Prayer Closet in the Historians office for Prayer & 
Fasting. There was Present O. Hyde O. Pratt W. Woodruff G. A. Smith E. T. Benson C. C. Rich 
Lorenzo Snow Erastus Snow & F. D. Richards. 

O Hyde opened by Prayer & spoke upon our position and the day in which we live. Said the 
gospel had been beging among the Gentiles for 30 years & he believed the time was seen over. 

He believed the time [was] at hand when the Gentiles would beg for the Gospel. 

G. A. Smith Prayed in the spirit of the Lord and asked for all things necessary for the Church & 
kingdom of God the Salvation of the Presidency, Twelve, our family & all Is[rael?] & the 
destruction of our Enemies. We then sung Come all ye that love the Lord. 

O Pratt Prayed that the Holy Ghost might be poured out upon us, that our hearts might be filled 
with good desires that we might be taught to pray & what to ask of the Lord. We then sung O our 
Father thou that dwellest. 

W. Woodruff prayed and Called upon the Lord to pour out his spirit upon us & give us the gifts 
of the Holy Ghost to Bless and preserve all Israel who would keep the Commandments of God & 
to Curse & destroy our Enemies who would not repent but seek our destruction. We sung this 
Earth was once a Garden Place. 

Erastus Snow spoke. Said he felt rather Stupid but he had a great desire to enjoy the Holy spirit. 
He talked as stupid as he felt, and I thought rather Quenched the spirit but he prayed and asked 
for many things which were good. 

O Pratt spoke and said that as Brother Hyde first remarked that in attempting to pray this 
morning his tongue was all doubled up and seemed hard work to speak. O Pratt said that it made 
him think of Brother Whitmer. Before he saw the Angels he had to struggle hard with the powers 
of darkness and in one instance the Devel appeared in the fonn of a personage and he had to 
Contend with that person & overcome him. Then an angel of God appeared to them. Joseph said 
that Moses was visited by the Devil and He said to Moses son of Man worship thou me. He told 
the Devil that He was a son of God and he would not worship him. Soon the Lord appeared to 
him. 


Page 185 




C. C. Rich recommended that no one speak unless he had the spirit of God but to pray. Then we 
would have a good meeting. Several ingaged in the Conversation. 

O. Pratt said there is one thing I think would be of advantage to us in prair. The Lord has said 
that whare two or three agree as touching any thing it shall be given you. He said we should Cast 
in our minds what the spirit would wish us to ask for, then we should agree and all ask for the 
same thing and exercise all the faith we Could upon that one thing. Now if we asked for a 
hundred things & all diferent it does not seem as likely to be answered as though we asked for a 
few things. The Nephites when Jesus appeared to them asked for the Holy Ghost and it was given 
them. 

O Hyde Said the He must Confess that he was more Stupid & dull than He wished to be. He 
thought it was in Consequence of going without food & tobaco, Which he had been in the habit 
of useing. He said if we get the spirit of the Lord & pray in the spirit we shall be agreed. 

W. Woodruff spoke & said that we were living in an important eria & that God required much at 
our hand as the Quorum of the Twelve Apostle. The Heavens were full of Judgment for the 
wicked & Blessings for the Righteous, and the Lord has said that He would be inquired off by the 
House of Israel to d[..h..]s Blessings for then we should be united in asking for what we want & 
we should go before God & ask him to stay our Enemies & hold them that they shall have no 
power over us. We may not be confined to one thing. We want the Holy spirit & we will ask for 
that and we will ask the Lord to Hold the Congress of the United States & all our Enemies in that 
way that the will of God may be done. He said this year would be more filled with Judgments 
upon the wicked than any year we have seen & 1860 will be far more so. 

E. T. Benson said that He fasted 3 days and was blessed in it and thought we should not be 
discouraged but fast & Pray and ask the Lord for what you want. Now if we use Coffee, tobaco, 
whiskey, & stuff ourselves with meat we will be like the Gentiles & cannot expect much of the 
spirit unless we prepare our bodies for it. I believe that Good will grow out of this meeting. 

G. A. Smith said that I understand the Idea of Brother Pratt is that we be united in what we ask 
for but not to limit us. I know that we want the Holy Spirit, And One of the Greatest Gifts that we 
want is wisdom to help us to use the Holy Spirit when we Ge[t it?]. We want a great deal of 
wisdom to know when to speak & when to be silent. As to the Congress of the United States 
their is not ten men but what want to Cut the throats of the Presidency & Twelve Apostles and I 
want to Pray God to Curse them & give them No power over us & I want to pray for the removal 
of the armey. Joseph Smith wrote his dedication prayer & went and read it to the assembly & 
some were tryed with it. 

We all dressed in our robes. Lorenzo Snow prayed & F D. Richards was mouth and prayed long 
and asked for many things for the Church & Kingdom of God. 

The Brethren then spent a Short time in mixed Conversation concerning the death of Joseph & 


Page 186 




other things. We then adjourned till tomorrow 10 oclok /[ ] 3./ 1 spent the evening at home. I 

met in the evening with my family and taught them the things of the kingdom. Elder Lorenzo 
Snow spent the evening with me. The mail Came in the evening. 

22d I Called at the President's office in the morning to see the Mail. But few papers came in & 
not much [news]. 

The Twelve Met in the prayer Closset at 12 oclok their being present O Hyde O. Pratt W. 
Woodruff John Taylor G. A. Smith E. T. Benson Lorenzo Snow, C. C. Rich Erastus Snow F. D. 
Richards. 

Elder Taylor opened by Prayer and asked the Lord for all things ne[ce]ssary for the saints. O 
Hyde wrote a note to H. C. Kimball giving him an invitation to meet with us. We conversed upon 
various subjets till 1 oclok. We then sung A poor wayfareing man of grief. 

E. T. Benson Prayed & Called upon the Lord for his Blessings upon all the Authorities of the 
Church and upon all Zion and for the Holy spirit to be poured out upon us and for the Lord to 
hedge up the way of our Enemies that they shall have no power over us. We then sung Come let 
us Anew our Journey persue. 

O. Hyde Prayed in the spirit of the Lord and asked for evry blessing upon the Church & Kingdom 
of God which the free spirit of the Lord dictated unto him. 

Erastus Snow spoke Concerning the feelings of many of the people against seeing the Twelve 
prosper in Temperal things. He thought if the Lord did not Sanction this He permited it to be & 
he thought perhaps it was not the will of God that we should be engaged in Temperal business. 
When I was ordained Brother Brigham told me to lay down my hoe & all farming tools & 
labouring in the ministry and I do not prosper in any temperal business. 

F. D Richards said he Brother Snow had spoken his feelings exactly. He did not feel like 
engaging in any temperal Business. 

C. C. Rich spoke upon the same Subject & said that He did not no as all the Twelve all 
experienced the same thing but I think the people are exercised by a spirit that they do not 
Comprehend or know what it ment but their is an opposition to Joseph & the Presidency & 
Twelve against their prosperity. I think we should use wisdom in the preservation of our bodies 
& live[s?]. We have received a gospel and principles which will save us but we must apply it to 
our bodies as well as to our souls in the season thereof in [order] to be saved. Brother C. C. Rich 
Called upon the Lord in prayer and asked the Blessing of God upon us. 

Lorenzo Snow spoke. Was thankful to meet with us & when He herd of it thought he would 
undergo a great deal in order to meet with us. If we did not have those great & marvellous things 
that was manifest on the day of Pentecost yet it was good to meet & pray. And while our 
Enemies are seeking our overthrow we should Call upon God for our protection. 


Page 187 




We are differently situated from the Ancient Apostles. They had not the kingdom of God to build 
up as we have. Now the power seems to be assimulated among the people & not confined to one 
or two men or Twelve. Yet I Consider Brigham Young is performing a greater work in saving 
providing and organizing his family, in the way he has than he would to divide the waters, or heal 
the Sick, Cast out Devils, or do other miracles and the wisdom of God is with him. 

With regard to our attending to temperal matters I think we shall have to attend to temporal 
matters & understand them in order to build up the kingdom of God. I have no dour but that if 
Bishop Hunter would take Care of our Families & we do nothing els No doubt we should be 
great & powerful men in spirit & make the hearts of men tremble & be filled with the power of 
God but would this benefit the people more than for us to know how to teach the people in 
temperal things? 

O Hyde said 1 have thought of the subject as Erastus spoke of but 1 have thought it was best for 
us to take a medium Course. We must have cares and if we could do as Bishop Hunter spoke of 
we might become dry & dull. 1 believe we shall have a variety sometimes fat & sometimes lean 
& sometimes nothing. We shall have trials but 1 think we ought to do our duty magnify our 
Calling and trust in God and all will be right. 1 believe the day is not far off when the Twelve will 
have all that is necessary. 

He related a dream about B[e/a?]llon & gold &c. J Taylor said 1 will prophesy that it shall be 
fulfilled. Lorenzo Snow said 1 will prophesy that the Moon is made under which it shall be 
fulfilled. O Hyde said 1 will Prophesy that the time will soon come when we shall have all that 
we want. 

E. T. Benson asked how much wood O Hyde got at Sessions Settlement. He said he had paid $5 
for one load of maple wood of the Bishop. That is all that 1 had in that Settlement. 

We had a mixed Conversation upon the subject before us. We finally Concluded to fulfill our 
mission /first/ and be industrious and provided for our families as well as we Can & then trust in 
God. 

23rd The Twelve met in the Prayer Closset at the Historians Office at 1/2 10 there being present 
O. Hyde O. Pratt, W. Woodruff J. Taylor, G. A. Smith E. T. Benson C. C. Rich, Lorenzo Snow 
Erastus Snow F. D. Richards. 

O Hyde made a statement of his doing in New Yourk at the Time that Roberts was overturning 
the Church through fals doctrin. The course was sustained by Joseph Smith. His instruction to the 
Twelve was read. B. Young said that when any one of the Twelve was abroad it was their duty to 
preside & regulate all things. 

O Hyde Prayed in the spirit of the Lord and then spoke. Said he wished the brethren would pray 
and aske for those things which we want & contend for it untill we obtain. 1 feel as though we 
shall not always be kooped up here. 1 do not believe we shall always be together but the Lord will 


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Call us out. We have a work to do in the Earth. The Lord has said "with you I will rend their 
kingdoms saith the Lord." Will this be done while we are here? We must pray for the spirit of 
God to be with us. 

At a quarter to 12 oclok H. C. Kimball & D. H. Wells called. * [ The asterisks in this entry are 
Woodruffs.'] H. C. Kimball said this made me think of the time when I returned from England. 
Joseph [Foster?] /was presidet/ & the presidency of the Seventies /they/ had met with a seers 
stones to see what they could see. When I went in they treated me vary Cool & Z Pulsipher said 
dont be excited Brother Kimball is Nothing but a man. They treated me vary Cooly & I went 
home and wept. * Then we all rose up & shook hands with them & recieved them Joyfully. 

O Hyde explained to Brothers Kimball & Wells what we had done, and would like to hear from 
them. 

Brother Kimball said I consider evry ruling man in the Church that Has the Holy Ghost is a 
prophet seer & Revelator & he should have the spirit of that office. 

G A. Smith Read the Authority /from the Doctrin & Covenants the duty/ of the Twelve Apostles. 
Br Kimball said it was plain. The Nations were spoken of whare the laws were so hard that the 
saints Could not enjoy the gospel openly. F. D. Richards spoke of esstablishing several Branches 
in Dresden in a secret manner through the mercy of God. 

Brother Kimball Conversed upon a variety of things. Refered to the stakes which the Twelve 
once set to see an Angel but we did not see an angel but prayed ourselves into darkness. He 
spoke of the time that Joseph tried the Twelve but the Twelve was united & tied Joseph down & 
Joseph said now dont you now never let any body tie you down as you have me. Brother Kimball 
said we appointed /Joseph nominated/ G. A Smith to take the place of Thomas B. Marsh and 
Lyman Shermon was appointed to take the place of Orson Hyde But Brother Sherman /was vary/ 
was taken sick & died in 3 days /shortly after/. Brother G. A. Smith said when he heard of 
Brother Shermons death He thought his time would soon Come. Brother Kimball said it was not 
the will of God for a man to take Brother Hydes place. 

The Twelve Can ordain men to the Apostleship and give them all the power you have and you 
have all that we have got But you Cannot make a prophet ownly the natural way. And a man 
Cannot be a patriarch & not a Prophet for a man may have the spirit of a prophet before he Can 
bless and prophets. "The gifts & callings of God are without repentance [sic]. There are 
thousands of prophets among the Gentiles and spiritualist that have not Repented or obeyed the 
gospel. There are natural gifts to men. If they would receive the gospel their gifts would be made 
more manifest. 

G. A. Smith Red some in the Doctrins & Covenants. H. C. Kimball said 1 always believed that 
Lyman Wight would be saved. 1 never had any but good feelings towards him. 

Joseph Young came in at 1 oclok. 


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President Brigham Young came in at a quarter past one oclok. W Woodruff red the minutes. 
Presidet Young said Brother Box said the Armey was wanting to get up a vigalance Committee 
& wanted to get my head, But they will not do it. Well Brethren I called in to see you a minuts. I 
supposed you meet to gether to know more. Well I wish we all understood our Calling & 
ministry before God. At the time Brother Kimball speaks of the Twelve We praid untill it was so 
dark we Could hardly see to get down Stairs. Then /last time I met with the Twelve in Kirtland/ 

[I] praid to God with all my heart that I might never again meet with that Quorum and I never 
did. I dont want you to run in to the same thing with the spirit they possessed. 

Brethren I will say one thing to you that you should understand that evry minutes of our lives we 
should watch vary Carefully evry thought act and word in such a manner as not to grieve the 
spirit of God. I do not know how your feelings are here but when you Close you should ask what 
advantage it has been to you and if you have gained any /thing by/ profit by it. If you meet for 
past time to pray for your friends & Enemies that is right. But if you meet to fast & pray & call 
upon the Lord for special Blessings you will have to be vary careful not to indulge in light or vain 
Conversation because it will grieve the spirit of the Lord. 

I met with the various quorums of the Church & many of the Councils of the Church are like the 
door upon its hinges. We are as we were, But we should improve by every opportunity we have. 
He then left us. 

Brother Kimball said as Brother Young has opened the way I will say the less you meet together 
to talk over matters the better it will be for you. To meet & Complain of one another and of the 
Presidency, or the people it is not profitable for you & if I had been in Brother Woodruffs Place I 
would not have red what he has. I would not have written them. 

Brother Kimball said bear with me untill I get through and be kind to me and I will be kind to 
you and if you will always take my Council you will find it will lead you into the kingdom of 
God & that you will not find in Books. 

The Brethren spoke in social Conversation upon a variety of Subjects. Brother Hyde said I will 
remark Concerning the objet of our meeting it was not to get Cloven tungs to set upon us of fire 
but it was to convers & pray together & ask the Lord to preserve us & to overthrow our enemies. 
We have stuck [our?] stake but was glad to have the Presidency Come in with us. 

H. C. Kimball said I will predict in the Name of Jesus Christ if you will be one with the Head, 
the Presidency and sustain them and you will never see the Body of Christ moved or disturbed I 
do not mean members but the Body, untill the Coming of Christ. And if you will be one with the 
Presidency not any of you or the Presidency shall fall by the Armey or By the Gentiles But you 
shall all be Crowned in the presence of God. You are Connected with all the prophets and 
Apostles from the Begining and they are united with us and will sustain us if we do our duty, 

And we shall never be broaken up. If we will be united all Hell Cannot move us. You unite with 
the presidency and have an Eye to the head all the time, & sustain the Head & no power will 


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prevail over us. I have the best of feelings towards this Quorum. If these two Quorums ownly 
Just stands together the kingdom will stand and prosper. Go to and prune yourselves & begin at 
the root. Brother Brigham told it that we should not do any thing but what we know is right. 

Brother Wells said I rejoice to meet with you. I was glad to hear that you was going to meet. I 
feel like a little Child among you. You have more experience than I have. I often fell not 
qualifyed to fill my Calling but by the grace of God I fell to try to do my duty. But one thing I no 
it is the work of God and if any of us get in the way it will roll on without us for the Lord will 
Carry it on. 

I have a great desire to have the spirit of God so that evry act thought & word may be exceptable 
before the Lord. We should try to healp Brother Brigham. I have tryed to help him & have been 
Called upon by him to do many things that I thought many others were Better Qualifyed to attend 
to. But I have done it freely & for that things I believe it has [been] excepted. 

I am thankful to see the Twelve & Presidency so well united and the friendship & Confid[en]ce 
the Twelve have in me. This is our safe guard. The devil has not the power over us that many 
think. When we are united we should try to keep the devil out of our houses & out of ourselves. 
Some time we may have a member in our houses who will let the devil dwell in their tabernacles. 
We Cannot always help this but if we are firm before the Lord we will gain ground untill we will 
bind the devil and Cast him out of our houses & finally out of the Church. 

I feel to Bless you my Brethren this Quorum of the Twelve Apostles with evry feelings of my 
heart in the Name of Jesus Christ and by all the Authority that God has given me. Let us be up & 
doing & feed the flock of God. The saints are weak many of them, and are tempted & tryed & 
they wanted feeding. 

If you see any thing in me that is wrong I wish you would Come to me and tell me. Esspecially I 
should be much oblieged to you to tell me any fault before you tell any body els. 

I consider it is a great blessings to belong to the Church of Christ. I never did ask for any office 
in the Church of Christ. I want to be passive in the hands of God. 

I never did have those great manifestations that some have. I have thought that I would like to 
have some of those manifestations if it was the will of God but not if it is agoing to do me any 
hann. I would not wish to see an Angel or hear the voice of God if it would make me apostitize 
or do me an injury. But let us act for to day & we will have all the Blessings that is necessary for 
us. 

O Hyde said I believe & I may almost say I know that there is not a feeling among the Twelve 
against the Presidency and do not offer up a prayer without asking God to Bless the presidency & 
call them by name. 

The question was asked had we not better meet hear evry thursday to fast. Brother Kimball said I 
thing if you will meet with the people you will have more of the spirit of God than to meet here. 


Pagel91 




Presidet Kimball dismissed us and Blessed us in the name of Jesus Christ and said we should be 
blessed and the spirit of good should be with us and be with our wives, and it should rest upon 
the Earth around about us and these are the begining of Good Better days. 

24th A Cold wind. I spent the fore part of the day in the office. We /read/ G. A Smith labours in 
Washington & ordered it to be recorded in the Journal of the Twelve Apostles. I spent the day in 
the office on History. 

25 I spent half of the day in the office on History. I rode to the Penetentiary in Company with 
Samuel Richards as Inspeters. A P Rockwood had gone before us. We visited the whole of the 
Buildings and found some of them damaged by heavy winds. There was but 2 prisioners in the 
penetentiary & they were Indians waiting trial. 


I gave President Young a peace of Susans wedding Cake and an Apple. I wrote a Letter to Felix 
H Benton St Louis Mo } for 50 descriptive Honey Bird Grass pamphlets. Sent 10 cts. 

Feb 26 It Commenced in the night to snow vary hard and Continued to snow till about 10 oclok. I 
spent the day in the office on history & the evening I met with the Board of Agricultural & 
Manufacturing Society. The inhabitants of Provo County had organized a Branch of the society. 
Sent us their Constitution and wished us to sanction it. The members did not exactly agree as to 
the management of the matter. Our agent seemed to stand in the way. It was refered to a 
Committee of three W Woodruff W. C. Stanes J. R. Winder. 

27th Sunday I attended the meeting at the Tabernacle. Wm. I. Appleby Preached a gospel & 
Historical sennan. I met with my Quorum. A. O. Smoot Prayed. R Bentley was Mouth. 

I met with the Quorum of the Twelve. F. D. Richards Prayed. O Hyde was mouth. We talked abut 
the spirits of men the varius glories, & Come to the Conclusion that all things was right with the 
Lord & that there was but few of the spirits of men who were Capable of Receiving a Celestial 
glory and the Telestial glory was broad enough to catch evry thing that ought to have any kind of 
salvation. 

28th It Commenced snowing in the night & snowed hard all day till near night. I spent the day in 
the office on History and the night at home Conversing with Brother Stocking & my family upon 
the different glories & reading in the Doctrins & Covenants. 

March 

March 1st 1859 This is my birth day. I am 52 years ? old this day. I was bom on the 1st day of 
March 1807. Thus I have lived over half a Centaury. I pray the Lord to preserve me through the 
present year & in all time to Come and enable me to be useful during the remainder of my days, 
and fill me with wisdom & understanding and preserve me from all presumptious sins and 


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unwrighteousness, that I may stand approved in the sight of God & my Brethren which I ask in 
the name of Jesus Christ Amen. 

It is a warm plesant morning. The sun shines bright & warm upon about 1 foot of snow. Joseph 
Young Called into the office & we Conversed upon the dedication of the Temple & the 
dedication Prayer which Joseph Young offered. I spent most of the day looking up Fills of 
Papers. I met with the Committee in the evening on the Business of the Provo Branch of the D. 

A. & M. society. I was unwell in the evening. 

2d A Plesant day. The mail Came in about 9 oclok. Brought [] me two Letters from J. M. 
Bernhisel. I spent the day in the office on office business. 

3d I was quite sick with a severe Cold on my lungs and was Confined through the day mostly to 
my bed and House. 

4th / $ $ Phebe Amelia was married to Lorenzo Snow By Presidet Young./ 

I Called at the office in the morning. Was poorly in Health. } I wrote 2 letters to JMB, 1 to H. S. 
Eldridge. We have a tremendious snow storm. 

I spent most of the day on History. 

March 5 We had a Cold night. The storm yesterday was the worst stonn we have had this winter. 
The sun shone bright this morning. I spent the day in the office. I attended the D. A. & M society 
at the Historians office. The President & board of Directors received our report as a Committy 
Concerning the Provo Branch of the society. 

6th Sunday G. A. Smith H. Stout S. M. Blair John Kay & J. V. Long Started for Provo at 8 oclok 
A.M. President B Young Fitted out a team of 4 mules to take them down to attend the Court. 

I Attended a meeting at the Tabernacle. Wm. G Mills Preached. Was followed by Presidet D. H. 
Wells & Elder John Taylor all of which bore a strong testimony of the gospel of Jesus Christ and 
of the work of God in the last days. 

My Quorum met at 2 oclok for Prayer. E. F. Sheets Prayed & J Pugmire jr. was Mouth. Brother 
Wm. Worstenholm was Prayed for as he was about to be Cut open by Dr France to take a stone 
out of his Bladder. Brother Worstenholm wished some of the Twelve to be present at this trying 
operation. 

I went in Company with C. C. Rich, Dr France, Dr Anderson, Dr Levi Richards W. Y Appleby 
A. H. Raleigh, E. R Young S. B. Rose Wm. Moss, & Wm. Durr to the House of Wm. 
Worstenholm in the [ ] ward within about half a mile of Jordon Bridge. I am informed By 

Brother Levi Jackman that his name is Wolstenhohne Wm. Wolstenhohn. 

We arived at his house at half past 3 oclok. He met us vary Cheerfully and made evry preperation 
for the operation. We could not get any Chlorofonn so the surgeons concluded to use Ether. They 


Page 193 




got 3 ounces at Godbys and he was about one hour inbreathing it but it did not put him to sleep. 
They then sent & got 5 ouncs more & used that all up and it ownly made him Crazy. They used 8 
oz. of Ether & was 2 hours about it & it did not put him to sleep. This was the Effect of 
Adulterated medicines. If it had been good a quarter of the Quantity would have answered. We 
had to leave him without operating upon him untill we Could get some Chloroform. I returned 
home. 

Attended the prayer Circle with the Twelve, there being present O. Pratt W Woodruff J. Taylor & 
C. C. Rich. O Pratt Prayed. W Woodruff was mouth. We then all Called upon Presidet Young. 
Spent an hour with him. 

/ } / 7th I called at the office in the morning. In looking over my Papers, I Found the following 
which I had /not/ reported: 

April 15th 1858 Sunday President B Young said If the US Troops make a war of extermination 
against this People they will have all the Indians on this Continent to Fight for they are of Israel 
and the Course which the anny are now taking towards them will have a tendency to cause the 
Indians to make war upon them. If Gov Cummings Comes into the City I do not want any man to 
go and see him without a pennit. If I am not esspecially required to go & see him He will stop a 
long time before I shall go to see him. President Young said this war will dry up for the present I 
think but should it not be so, should I have to bum up my Buildings and if we are driven to lay 
waste our Cities & fields, I will tell you that we should not build much more here but it will be a 
great war and we should live in tents & Shanties till we go back to Jackson County, Mo. The 
Catholics are laying deep plans to overthrow the Protestant Nations who are watching us but the 
Catholics say but little about us.) 

I spent the day on the history. I spent the evening at President Young with the regency upon the 
Deseret Alphabet. 

March 8 I wrote 2 letters one to Col Thomas L. Kane :)■ & one to Luke Johnson. Brother Reddin 
A Allred called upon me. Said he had called upon President Young and told him he was going to 
Rush valley. President Young said that He Should appoint Brother Allred the Bishop to Preside 
there. Brother Allred says that He heard Brother Macintosh & others say that Bishop Rowberry 
say that those Grants were Unconstitutional. James Jordon said that Brother Benson told him that 
he had had a great deal of trouble with the Grantees & he thanked God that it was over that they 
had all given up their Claims and evry man might now go & Chuse land as he pleased. 

It Commenced snowing at about 2 oclok & it snowed vary hard untill 4 oclok. I spent the evening 
with President Young D. H. Wells E. T. Benson J Banks & others. J Furguson read a Story of a 
Paddy swiming the Atlantic ocean with a Bag of meal & a ham on his back. Was picked up by a 
ship. He rolled around the ship in the water like a hoop to please the Ladies. Many subjects were 
talked about during the evening such as tanning leather & milling. I spent the day in the office. 

9th We had a stonny day. I spent the day in the office Scraping and the evening at home. 


Page 194 




10th I Called at the office at 9 oclok. Bishop Bigelow Called upon us this morning & gave a 
report of the Provo Court. Judge Cradlebaugh had 80 soldiers with him to guard the Prisioners. 
The Judge had given his Charge to the Jury. Wished them to inquire into the Mountain Meadow 
massacree, & several other murders. He seemed quite vindictive against the mormons. Sinclair 
was there drunk or nearly so & darning the Mormons. 

I had a conversation with James Cummings. He says he had a talk with Samuel J Lees. He says 
he knows who is writing those synonomous Letters to President Young. It is done by a 
Committee who are turning Infidels & apostitizing from the Church. They are vary vindictive 
against Brother Kimball. Cummings thought they would seek his life & many other things were 
said. 

I Called upon the Presidet & had a private Conversation with him upon this subjet. He said the 
Lord would Controll all this matter & the Utah Court [too?]. See office Historians Private 
Journal. 

I spent most of the day Journalizing. 

I Attended a party at Sister Karnes with Mrs Woodruff A. O. Smoot & wife J. C. Little & wife J. 
Horn & wife Samuel Richards & wife & others. After partaking of a good feast I was Called 
upon to make a speech. I spent 3/4 of an hour Preaching the gospel of Christ & speaking of the 
things of the kingdom of God. Was followed by A. O. Smoot J. Horn J. C. Little another Brother 
& S W Richards which occupied the time till near midnight. 

Ill wrote a Letter to G A Smith & gave him all the News I Could think of. Brother L. W. Hardy 
buried a Child to day about 2 years old. I delivered a short Funeral address. Was Followed by 
Bishop Hunter & A. O. Smoot. I prayed. 

I called upon President Young. He had been poorly through the day but said he felt better now. 

He was going to take a warm bath in the evening. Sent for Dr Sprague. He said he believed that 
Cradlebaugh would fizzle out in his Court and not be as long winded as Sinclair was. 

While speaking A messenger arived From Provo with Letters to the Presidency & others. 
Cradlebaugh Called the Jury to him or he met with them & gave them another Charge. Told them 
that when 12 of their Jury agreed to find a Bill & if their forman did not agree with them to 
appoint one of their number Foreman & write up the Bill. A Bill found signed by the Foreman 
recommended them to appoint a Clerk & to keep a secret Book for their benefit & destroy it 
when they got through. They were sworn to secrecy & must not tell there Procedings while out of 
Court. He explained the reason why he had Called a Company of Soldiers to his [-] to guard the 
Prisioners &c. 

Brother Carrington read a Letter to Brother Calkings from the President and some other Letters. 
In speaking at the funeral today of Brother Hardy's Child I said little Children when they died 


Page 195 




went home to God who gave them and I had no fears about them not half as much as I had about 
those who lived. I had great anxiety about the Children of this people that they might walk in the 
light of the Lord & be prepared to sustain this Kingdom in their Generation. I said those who 
were faithful in Keeping the Commandments of God would have their Children again but those 
who were wicked & would not keep the Commandmets of God would be separated from their 
Children for their Children would inherit a Celestial Glory while their wicked parents would be 
thrust down to hell. Therefor it becomes evry Parent to keep the Commandments of God that 
they may have their Children in the family organization in the Celestial world. 

We are having a terrific Cold snow snonn. The wind blows a gale & exceding Cold. It was a vary 
cold distressing night for Cattle. President Young was in his office till 10 oclok. His feelings are 
that the Court in Provo would flush out and they would not have Power to accomplish his evil 
designs. 

12 March It is a Cold bright sunshiney morning. Brother Bigler starts for Provo. I spent the day 
scraping. 

13 Sunday I attended meeting at the Tabernacle. Samuel W. Richards Preached. 

At the Close of the meeting In company with Doctor's France, Anderson, Richardson Dunyon, 
Sprague, Levi Richards, Elders C. C. Rich A H Raliegh Durr Wm. Moss W. I. Appleby King & 
two others I went to Brother Wm. Wolstenholmes to again try to operate upon him & take the 
stone out of his Bladder. We arived there at half past 2 oclok. We Commenced to administer to 
him. Cloriform at 7 minuts before 3 oclok. We first Consecrated a Bottle of oil & administered to 
him by the laying on of hands. We gave him an ounce of Cloriform & some 3 oz of Either. We 
were 45 minuts giving him the Cloriform. 

They Commenced operating upon him at 25 minutes to 4 oclok. They run a tube up the penus 
into the bladder, then Cut into the body by the side of the tube in the bladder. He was 10 minutes 
cutting to the Stone & 14 minutes taking it away making 24 minutes in the operation. The stone 
was of a dark sand stone Couler, vary rough surface. The following is the length of it or 
Circumference of it both ways and around the middle: It was of an oblong shape. He did not 
bleed much in the operation. 

{Fac Similee 3 1/4 inch round Mulbury Couler} 

{4 1/4 inches round Thickness standing on Edge} 

He was not sensible during the operation being under the operation of Cloriform but when he 
Came to his senses he was in a good deal of pain, which Continued through most of the night. He 
bled much during the night. Dr's France & Anderson Called in the morning & drew away his 
water & blood from the bladder with a tube and opened the wound & took away a large quantity 
of Clouded blood. He had bled much during the night. 

I attended the Prayer Circle with the Twelve. There was Present O. Pratt W. Woodruff E. T. 


Page 196 




Benson & C. C. Rich. He prayed & E. T. Benson was mouth. We Conversed upon various things. 
The business of the Provo Court was spoken of [and] Prayed for. We also spoke of & Prayed for 
Brother Wolstenholme. I Called upon President Young a short time in the evening. The 
Calafomia Mail Came in in the evening. No Eastern Mail yet. 

14th Still Cold weather. I made an account of the above surgical operation for the deseret News. I 
showed the stone to President Young & many others. I spent the evening at President Youngs 
with the Regency. Many samples or ornamented Capitols were Presented for the <Deseret 
Alphabets [Deseret.] 

March 15 1 spent the day scraping in the office. Robert set post & made a fence on the East end 
of my orchard garden of Pine post. I had a talk with F. D. Richards upon the propriety of puting a 
stop to the trespassing upon our fields by the men & boys as they have done heretofore. I spent 
the evening at home And Commenced a Journal for My Son Wilford. * 

16th I Spent the day in the office scraping. Was quite unwell. I spent the evening at President 
Young Hearing the Life of Napoleon read through his Italian wars & Austrian his taking the 
bridge at Lodi &c which was quite interesting. 

17th Brother Orson Hyde returned from Rush valley whare he had been to settle the difficulties. 
He done away with the Rush valley Herd Company & the Citizens Staked out the land, and that 
makes an End of our Claim in that land. The sellers gave him some $30 dollars in Money & 
promised him a keg of Butter & a grant of 20 Acres of the Best land in the East Canyon for his 
services. He Appointed a President and two Councellors. 

I Called upon the President a short time. 

The Mail Carrier reported that Amasa Lyman was vary dangerously sick & not expected to live. 

[] I received a letter from Lorenzo Snow. 

I also Received a letter from G.A.S at Provo. The Court are mad & trying to do all they Can. Gov 
Cummings was there and trying to remove the Troops. The Court has supenied witnesses about 
one doz on some Cases of murders. There has been Bills Found against two Indians for rapes 
And John Cazier for helping away deserters. No other Bills found as yet. About 150 persons 
applied for naturalization papers. They seem to have a good deal of business on hand. 

The mayor and City Council wrote to Judge Cradlebaugh an answer to his reasons for Bringing 
the troops to Provo to guard Prisioners Condemning his Course for so doing. 

Brother Southworth arived in the evening bringing later News from Provo but nothing of much 
interest. 

I spent the evening at President Youngs. He had the Provo Communications read, also the Life of 
Napolion which was vary interesting. 


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181 spent the fore part of the day in the discharge of duties at home and the afternoon in the 
office & the evening at home reading Napoleon & his anney. We had a wann day. 

19th It Commenced Snowing this morning with a strong North west wind and it was the most 
terifio stonn of the season & will be dreadful upon Cattle upon the ranges. It left a foot of snow 
upon the ground at night. It stoped snowing at sunset. I spent the day on the History. 

20th Sunday I met with my quorum at 1 oclok. I prayed & Bishop Hunter was Mouth. 

The Eastern Mail Came in in the afternoon. I spent some time in the Presidents office looking 
over the news of the day. A Land Bill passed the House giving to evry American Citizen a 
quarter Section of Land if they ocupied it 5 years. The majority was 44. If it Passes the senate it 
will become a Law. 

I met with the Quorum of the Twelve. E. Snow Prayed. J. Taylor was mouth. We went to the 
Presidents & spent the time till 9 oclok In speaking of the soldiers in Provo President Young said 
I would like to be Govornor awhile. I would remove them soon if the Captain did not and if 
Governor Cummings did his duty he would do it. 

Judge Cradlebaugh supenied some witness & when they arived the Judge arested them upon a 
Bench warrant among whom was Benjamin Kimball Bullock the Mayor of the City for murder 
when they had no accusation against him. President Young said they wanted to get up a Fuss but 
not Enough to Cut their own heads off. GAS Said it would be A fearful thing to them if they 
begun it. 

2 1st T We have an express this morning saying that their is 800 Men on the way from Camp 
Floyd to Provo, and Levi Stewart reported that their was one Redgment & a Battery ordered to 
Salt Lake City. If this is true it seems they are detennined to have a fuss with this people. They 
seem detennined to provoke a war. 

G A Smith arived from Provo on Saturday night the 19th. Travelled all day through the Stonn. 
The Lord has sustained us thus far and we shall trust him to do it still. 

I spent the day in the office on History. I spent the night at President Youngs till 1 oclok. The 
fore part of the night was spent with the regency upon the subject of the large dictionary writing 
in the Deseret Alphabet. It was abandoned & Juvenile works are to be written instead. The latter 
part of the time was spent in Conversing upon the state of affairs at Camp Floyd & Provo & the 
sending of troops into our Cities to slay the People. An express Came in saying that the Troops 
had arived at Lehi. See <private [joumal?]>. I went home at 1 oclok. 

22d [] ;} I received a letter from Lorenzo Snow & wrote a letter in return. We are having another 
tremendious snow stonn to day. I spent the Evening with the Twelve & others at President 
Youngs. Most of the evening was spent in reading the Life of Napoleon. 


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There was a meeting in Each ward of the City to get signers to a petition to Gov Cummings to 
remove the Troops from Provo & report to Congress or to the President affairs as they are and the 
Course the Judges have Persued. Thousands signed the petition. I Spent the Evening at President 
Youngs. 

/23/ John Kay & Wm Hornor arived from Provo with an express at 9 oclok. Judge Cradlebaugh 
is full of the devil. He has dismissed both Juries Grand and Pettit & he gave a wicked Hellish 
speech to the Jury when He dismissed them. Wall the Marshall & Sheriff of the County went by 
order of the Court with the Marshall of the Court to arest President James C. Snow & Aaron 
Johnson as the Court wished to secure all the Leading men he Could. But they did not arest them. 
Wall reported to the Court that He Could not find them. Judge Cradlebaugh told him he was a 
damned liar. He had help them to get away and all the Community were ingaged in the murders. 

He had 800 Soldiers around him and he is holding a military inquisition around his Court and 
will not let a monnon go into Court except the Lawyiers ownly such men as they arest. They 
subpena men as witnesses then as soon as they Come into Court arest them with Bench warrants 
and put them under military guard without food or Blankets to lie on at night. It is another 
Missouri Military mob Court. 

Soon another Messenger arived from Rush valley Bringing News that Howard Spencer the Son 
of Orson Spencer was nearly or quite Killed by a soldier in that Place under the following 
Circumstances. Alfred Cliff made the following report: 

He went I 1 0 to rush valley with Howard Spencer to see about their Cattle. When they arived 
there on the ground at the House of Daniel Spencers they met 5 soldiers. They told Spencer He 
Could not stay there over night. This appeared to be an officer. Howard Spencer told him that the 
House belonged to him & he should stay there over night. The soldiers then went away & 
returned with about a dozen men in all. The officer told Spencer He should not Stay there over 
night. Spencer said He would & got off his horse & went through the first Carrall into another 
Carrall whare his food was & the man that seemed to Command the soldiers rode up to him on 
Hors back & took the gun by the brich & struck him over the Head by the barrel with all his 
might across the side of the head and laid his [head] open and he fell dead to all appearance. He 
straitened himself out as he fell. 

Soon Luke Johnson Came up to him apparently to take Care of him But Cliff then left for this 
City & reported not knowing what followed, or whether Spencer was dead or not. Daniel Spencer 
& some others started right away to get him whether Dead or alive. 

Unless the Lord wards off the blow it looks as though we were to have war & Boodshed. Our 
Enemies are determined on our over throw as far as possible. But I have faith to believe that the 
Lord will protect us as he has done. 

Judge Cradlebaugh revised his speech to the Jury before Long Sent it to this City. We had a Copy 


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of it read & the procedings of the Court. 

24th We packed up a Box of Journals Books & Records for safe keeping in Case of war. 

Some person had an interview with the Govomor this morning. The Govornor Came in the 
[mail?] last night and asked him what He was going to do in this disturbance. He seemed a little 
troubled about it. He had reported to [the] Government that He Could not be responsible for the 
peace of this Country unless he had Controll of the military & they be not at the Controll of the 
Judges and he will make the same report the next mail. 

He says their was no necessity for Calling out the Military at Provo. He was asked if he would 
require the Citizens to be taken to Camp Floyd to be tryed. He said He should not say that He 
should require it. He was told the Circumstances of the attack upon Howard Spencer. He said he 
would immediately have that subject investigated. These questions were asked Govornor 
Cummings by D. H. Wells. 

An old Coger of a looking man came on a mule tiered out. Enquired at Presidents Youngs for 
Govornor Cummings. He was directed to his residence. It may be an express from the Provo 
Armey. 

0 1 received the following receipt for dissolving & Curing the stone in the Bladder: Drink freely 
of fennol tea of the seeds & stocks And for the gravel sweeten [yor?] tea with Honey and sugar 
mixed, that it will Cure the gravel. 

I was informed by Brother Bolton that Mr Hartnet was vary much excited about the fuss of the 
soldiers and was mad against the Judge for Calling out the soldiers & that Gov Cummings was 
vary mad. He had received a letter from Col Johnson. What the purpose of it was we did not 
know. 

I Spent the evening at President Youngs. The fore part of the evening was spent reading 
Napoleon. A messenger arived from Rush valley informing us that after Spencer was knocked 
down they sent for an army Surgeon who examined his head. Found his skull was broaken & one 
part laped on the top of the other. He sawed a peace of the Skull out & placed it together and they 
think there is a Chance for him to get well. 

Several Brethren Came into the Historians office & Conversed about the procedings of the Court 
in Provo. Brother Fox & ... others walked down the street with me. [The ellipses are 
Woodruffs.] 

25th [] I received a Letter from L Snow. Wants the News about the Court. 

I understand that Marshall Dodson is in the City after men one Durfee & Bartholomew, at 
Hartnets. Rumour says they are after Snow & Blackburn, but why do they look for them in this 
City? They live in Provo. 


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Word has just Came that Howard Spencer is brought into the City & some prospect of his living. 
Brother Foxx Called upon me a short time this morning. I spent most of the day in the office on 
History. I spent the evening at home. 

26 An Express arived this morning from Provo Bringing all the minutes up to yesterday of the 
proceding of the Court, and the anny. They are still trying to arest men as far as they Can. I had 
an interview with two men from the south. They say there was another Company of Draggoons 
on the way from Camp Floyd to Provo. 

John L. Smith arived this evening from Provo with Letters and Papers. Nothing new. They were 
waiting for two witnesses on their way down with Dodson. The Judge is sitting as an 
examin[in]g magistrate and is aresting evry man he Can and putting him under military guard 
without any reguard to whether he is guilty or innocent. It is another Missouri Military mob 
Court and evry exertion is making by the Court and Armey to get up a row and Collission with 
the Saints so that the Speculators Can keep an anney here to make money out of the Government 
without any reguard to the rights or lives of men. 

I visited 2 Brethren at G.A.S. House. <Bishop [-] [awoke?] the [-] told me to leave that [he] 
expected his house to [be] searched. I [ — ] bishop [— ] snow [— ] told me not to write any letter.> 

27th Sunday Orson Pratt Preached in the Tabernacle to a small Congregation. I met with my 
Quorum. J G. Willey Prayed. A Hoagland was Mouth. We had a snow Stonn but it soon melted 
off. 

* I spent the fore Part of the day in assisting Wilford to make out his Journal of his life. I have 
taught him to keep a Journal of his life to Commence while young & keep it up through life as I 
Consider evry good man should do who holds the Holy Priesthood & record his official acts that 
his Children and future Generations may know what he has done & the dealings of the Lord with 
him. 

I met with the Quorum of the Twelve. F. D. Richards Prayed. O. Pratt was mouth. We Called 
upon the President & spent the evening. History of Napoleon was read a short time. Two weeks 
of the Eastern Mail arived this evening but we Could not get any Mail till morning. I spent the 
night till 1 oclok writing the History of Wilford Woodruff jr. 

28th The Eastern mail was received this morning. I spent some time in looking over the papers. 
Not much News. Col Johnson has leave of absence and the Command is to be left in the hands of 
Col Smith who is said to be bitter against this people. Origon has been admitted as a State. The 
Homestead Bill was a tie in the Senate & the Vice President gave his vote to lay it on the Table 
for the Present. We are having another Stonn of snow. 

29th We have another snow storm. I have never seen such a winter in this Country so long, 
Could, and so many storms. The winter has Commenced early and held on vary late. It is now the 
29th of March & still snowing. 


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Governor ALFRED GUMMING Has issued a proclamation to the inhabitants of Utah protesting 
against the proceding of the United States Courts in Calling out the Army to protect his Court or 
to intimidate the witnesses Jurors & Citizens of this territory. 

I spent the day in the office on history. I finished reading the Letters of 1846. 

Their was a Row in the main street about 2 oclok Mr Hart the Chief Gambler drew his pistol 
swareing he would shoot some mormon. A young sprouse followed his example & swore he 
would shoot a mormon. He mounted his mule & shot 3 Balls into the Croud & run. The Croud 
shot 6 Balls at him while running. Shot one ball into his mules neck. Hart also run away. 

March 30th Brother Meeks got in from Provo last night. Reported that the Judges & Armey were 
vary mad at the Extra. The proclamation had Just arived but not Circulated when he left. They 
had privately examined Durfee and he had tried to implicate President Young and this is what 
our Enemies have been trying to hier some one to do a long time. But their is not a man in the 
world who Can sware in truth that President Young advised any one to murder any body. He has 
always advised evry man when he has advised at all not to shed Blood except in self defence. 

It is a vary Cold day. I wrote some today to Lorenzo Snow. It is rumoured to day that Col 
Johnson has 100 deserters in Irons in his Camp and he had one man whiped 120 lashes on the 
bare back who swore he would kill the man who sentenced him to be whiped as soon as he got a 
Chance. We learned that the snow was vary deep South and their had been No Communication 
with any settlement south of Fillmore for several weeks. 

I had two dreams last night. I dreamed of having a terrible * battle with a rattle snake. He tried to 
bite me all over but did not seem to hurt me. After I awoke I again fell * asleep and dreamed that 
I had an orchard of several acres of Apple trees and I thought the ground was Covered with vary 
large red ripe Apples. I thought there were hundreds of Bushels so ripe that they must be used up 
in order to save them. I was making preperations to make them into Cider when I awoke. 

An express Came in last night bringing the reports of the court. They are mad at the governors 
Proclamation. 

3 1 I herd the report of the doings of the Court. Judge Cradlebaugh threatened to arest Gov 
Cummings. They came near a Collission. Some boys threw Stones at the Centinels. They 
reported that to the Commander [who] gave orders if any more was flung to fire in the direction 
and if the fire was returned to kill all the prisioners immediately. It seems a difficult matter to 
keep from having a Collision between the Citizens and troops. 

11 I attended the funeral of Sister Woolley. A large Congregation assembled. There was also 
President H. C. Kimball & D H Wells present also O. Pratt W Woodruff J. Taylor G. A. Smith E. 
T. Benson & Erastus Snow, also Bishop Hunter & many Bishops & Elders. They sung "0 My 
Father thou that dwellest." O Pratt Prayed. Another Hymn was sung. 


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Elder O. Pratt then addressed the People, And said what I may say I do not know, but I hope I 
may be led to say what will be for the best. Since I Came here my eyes have been saluted with 
one thing, and that is that death has power over all thing that we see. We are Called upon to part 
with our best friends and have them taken away from us. What we now see in death, and what 
has happened from the Beginning in like manner will all the millions who now dwell upon the 
whole Earth will be Called to pass through the same Change. 

If we had no knowledge of God we should feel vary diferent from what we now do. If we thought 
our bodies would lie in the dust and never be raised again we should have great Cause to mourn. 
But we have learned that the being which inhabits this Tabernacle will live forever and not die. 
We have to lay our tabernacles in the dust but they will again be resurrected with an immortal 
body for Jesus Christ through his death and suffering restored unto all the Children of men the 
privilege of the resurrection of their bodies, and if we keep a Celestial law we shall have a 
Celestial Resurrection. But all the righteous & the wicked will have their bodies again. 

We Cannot imagin the great[ness?] of the glory of the saint of God after the resurrection. 
Notwithstanding all that our bodies suffer in this life in pain sorrow & distress the want of food 
&c still we Cling to them and do not wish to give them up. We do not realize the great difference 
there is in being in this world or probation & the next. All the knowledge we fonnerly had was 
taken from us when our spirits took these bodies. 

Some think we never did exist till we Came here because we cannot remember any thing neither 
Can we remember any thing of the first year or two of our existence yet our spirits remained in 
our bodies as much as they do now. But as soon as our spirits leave these imperfect tabernacles 
or rather bodies Cloged with mortality & evil our spirits will be in lively recollection of evry 
thing that took place with us before we Came here and all things appertaining to us since we 
Came in this world. 

It is right for us to take proper Care of our bodies and do right & when we have done that we 
should leave all in the hands of God and not be over anxious for our lives for if we are faithful I 
expect we shall be raised in the morning of the first Resurrection And if we expect to be 
Crowned Kings and Priests & sit upon thrones we want experience in this world and the next in 
order to be prepared for thes things. 

If we were to be judged by the knowledge we once had before we came here it would not be 
right, for we have to be judged according to the light we have and if we break the Law of God 
after having received great light and knowledge our Condemnation would be accordingly. When 
the righteous Come forth with their resurrected bodies, they will have great Joy in the 
rememberance of their faithful deeds while the wicked will have great sorrow in the 
rememberance of their wicked deeds, & the persecution of the Saints. Their sorrow will be 
increased a thousand fold while the Joy of the Saints will be a thousand fold. 

It has been thought by some that when the spirit leaves the body that [it] will never be Called to 


Page203 




labour either befor or after the resurrection. But I believe that all the Children of God will be 
Called to perform duties through all Eternity as great as they are Capable of perfonning, that they 
may Continue to receive the blessings of their Father in heaven. 

Those who lived and died before the Coming of Christ who were faithful received their 
resurrected Bodies after Christ arose and if you are faithful you will also have your resurrected 
bodies at the second Coming of Christ and when we Come to meet with them we can then tell 
our labours & toils over together, each in their generation, and if they had persecution so have 
we, and if they were driven from their homes & had perils for Christ sake so have [we] and we 
Can be mutual in our Communication together. And the Zion on the Earth will ere long meet 
with the Zion of Enoch and there we will greet each other and we shall have such Joy as we have 
never seen on the Earth. 

President Heber C Kimball then spoke a short time. He said in regard to what had been said by 
O. Pratt is all good. In regard to the abobe of departed spirits I have no doubt but this wourld will 
stand forever. Jesus says in this world ye have tribulation but in me ye have pease. 

But I am going to say a few words about sister Mary W Woolley. We Call her dead. She is dead 
in one sense, but not in another. I have known her before she was in the Church. She is a good 
woman. She has always stood by her husband and has been true to him and if she has been true in 
this life she will be in the next and have her reward which will be the Case in the next probation 
with all. 

I believe in many Probation. When Sister Woolley gets in the next probation she will Sit down 
with Sarah and the ancient Holy women as well as the Prophets and Apostles who have lived in 
this probation. When they go into the spirit world they sit down with Abram and the Patriarchs 
and Prophets. 

She has had many troubles in this life but she has got through them all and I am Confident she 
will sit down with all the Holy men & women in the Eternal world, and will remain with them 
Eternally. What she has past through she has done for salvation and she has stood it well and now 
has gone to rest, and I Can say of a truth that I know that she is now well off and all is well with 
her. 

She has sustained Brother Woolley in Carrying out the doctrin of the Patriarchal order of 
marriage and this because God had Commanded it. We have often herd Presidet Young say that 
He did not enter into it because he liked it but because God had Commanded it. If we had not 
done it we should have been darned. He Commanded Law Marks & others to enter into it but 
they did not obey the word of the Lord and they have gone and denied the faith while we remain 
and God will sustain us here in the mountains. True yes it is as true as the sun, and those who are 
faithful will be saved. Sister Woolley has been true and so has Brother Woolley and their sons 
and daughters have been true men and women and I say God Bless you, Brother Woolley and 
your family and I Bless you all that are faithful. 


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But a Curse will come upon the Nation that has sought our destruction and as God lives what the 
nation seeks to bring upon us will be brought upon them. So we must be patient & the Lord has 
them in his power and they Cannot move ownly as the Lord permits and God will regard all that 
we have done in the Temple of God and we will have to fully Carry it out and if we have not 
done wrong or broaken our Covenants we shall receive all that has been promised unto us and all 
will be right. And may God grant that all may Come upon our Enemies that the Lord may wish to 
bring upon them. Amen. 

Prayer by D H. Wells. A large train of Carriages accompanied the Corps to the grave. 

S. M. Blair arived in the evening from Provo. We had a Conversation with him. 

April 

April 1 It is a Cold day. I had some conversation with S. M. Blair upon affairs in Provo. There is 
some excitement throughout the Territory. Arests are being made all over the Country as far as 
they Can find men. But most of them flee as they do not wish to be put under military guard. 

I spent the night in the Historians office & printing office till midnight. } I wrote a Letter to I F 
Carter & sent him the last paper Containing the Govomors Proclamation & doings at Court. 
Aurelius Miner Testified to us that He herd Judge Cradlebaugh say that if he Could get testimony 
enough against a Mormon he would Condemn him & hang him before the Govornor Could have 
time to pardon him. 

2d S M. Blair started for Provo this morning. I had some Conversation with him before he left. It 
is a Cold morning. The Deseret News Extra is out this morning. I spent most of the day in the 
office. I wrote a Letter to I. F. Carter & sent } him the Governors Proclamation and the last 
Deseret News Containing the proclamation and a full account of the procedings of the Court. I 
was in the Printing office till midnight. 

3d Sunday I attended meeting at the Tabernacle. J. M. Brown spoke. Was followed by C. C Rich 
E D Woolley a few words from D. H. Wells. He exhorted the people to get the spirit of the Lord 
& keep it. I met with my Quorum for Prayer. L W Hardy Prayed. J. C. Little was mouth. 

I spent several hours with President Young D. H. Wells G A Smith & A Carrington. We took 
dinner with the Presidet. In the Course of Conversation President Young said we must begin to 
look out some good hiding Places to put the women and Children & old men & provisions & 
Prepare for another war. I am satisfied the Present one will fizzle out. I would recommend to lay 
up a good quantity of Dried Beans and peas. They will keep longer than any other grain. We want 
to find a place which will be hard of access that Cannot be taken but that has water that Cannot 
be Cut off and we want to go <where it is warmer to the south> and store up provisions against a 
time of Need. 

Lorenzo Snow accompanied me home & we met with the Twelve in our Prayer Circle. O Pratt 


Page205 




Prayed & G. A. Smith was mouth. They Called upon the Lord to ward off the blow of our 
enemies and that their folley & wickedness might be made manifest in the Eyes of the Nation and 
that the Judgments of God might rest upon the wicked who were seeking the lives of the 
righteous. The views of the Brethren were expressed Concerning the illegal procedings of the 
Court in Provo and believed the Lord would overrule it for the good of his people. 

I went to Brother Smoots & returned home with Mrs Woodruff who was there. While on the way 
home I learned that an express Came in saying that the Court had adjourned sine Die and the 
armey is to return to Camp Floyd. This is good News. It is reported that He dismissed Mr 
N[athercut?] saying that He was a damned Fool and did not know enough to tell the truth. But He 
kept McDonald, Keams, J Daily He h[eld?] in Custidy. 

April 4th [] I got a letter from Orrin Wight giving an account of the death of Liman Wight. 

It is a plesant morning but their is still a good deal of snow on the ground. I spent most of the day 
in the office. 

Elder Forenzo Snow Called at my house And in company with him and Mrs P. W. Woodruff and 
my daughter Phebe Amelia I went to President Brigham Youngs and he sealed Phebe Amelia 
Woodruff to Elder Lorenzo Snow. He took supper with his family at my house. Sister Smoot was 
also present. I think a dream which I had a short time since was fulfilled. <A dark cloud was on 
the [trial?] .> 

5 Brother Wm. M. Wall Called at this office last night. He made an Affidavit Concerning the 
order to kill the prisioners. The ground is frozen and there is a vary Cold wind to day. 

The Eastern Mail Came in to day. Brought News up to the Close of the session. No action taken 
upon Utah affairs in any way. The Homestead Bill killed in the senate. The Bill to distribute land 
for Colleges &c vetoed by the presidet. Hon Mr Sickles a member from New York shot Mr Kay 
U.S. Attorney of the D.C. for the seduction of his wife. This is Creating much excitement at 
Washington. I got several papers And a Note from Brother Wright saying He had got several 
hundred lbs of freight & wished $20 for his Family which I paid and took recept. 

6 April 1859 The general Conference of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter day Saints Met at 
the Tabernacle in the City of the Great Salt Lake. There was Present all the Presidency & Twelve 
Apostles Except Amasa Lyman who was South, also a large Congregation of the Saints. The 
Conference was opened by Prayer. Joseph Young spoke to the People followed by Heber C. 
Kimball. In the afternoon G. A. Smith & John Young addressed the people followed by D. H. 
Wells. All gave good advise. 

7th There was a Crouded house to day. All the Authorities of the Church presented and sustained 
except B. L. Clapp. He was Cut off from the Church. Elder John Taylor spoke in the fore noon & 
President Young in the Afternoon to the Joy and Consolation of the Assembly He spoke in the 
spirit and power of God. Among his interesting remarks he said many wondered if they were in 


Page206 




their place. If they are not they will be in the next world for evry body will be rewarded according 
to their deeds & if they Cannot keep a Celestial Law and are not able to abide a Celestial Glory, 
they will have a glory according to the lay they do keek [ law they do keep ] and they will have a 
fulness as much as they will be enable to Endure. We adjourned till the 6th of Oct. 

8th I opened all my ditches in front of my lot tore up my Bridges & made over new. I spent part 
of the day in the office. } I wrote 2 letters to H. S. Eldridge & Joseph Harris. I sent for a Bill of 
sheet Iron & for the Fanner. 

April 9 1859 I sowed a quantity of Peas & beets today. The eastern mail came in this Morning 
But they kept it for some purpose till near night. We had some light showers of rain. I took up a 
quantity of peach & Apple trees & sold [them]. I spent the evening at Presidents Youngs & Mrs 
Bernhisels. 

10 Sunday David Candland Preached. I met with my Quorum. A. O. Smoot Prayed. G. D Grant 
was mouth. I met in the evening with J. Taylor & O. Hyde a short time & then went home. 

1 1th We have quite a hard Snow Storm to day. I have never seen such a winter and spring in any 
Country. We have not been able to put in any wheat in this County. I sold $6 dollars worth of 
peach trees. H. C. Kimball Called in to the office with G.A.S E.T. & E R Young, and conversed 
about going East for the Woolley Factory & goods. We have had about 10 snow storms to day & 
as many sun shine. 

12 We are having a vary hard snow storm to day. Occasionally the sun will Come out & shine a 
few moments warm then it will set in & snow enough to darken the air. 

I saw Lysander Gee. He said he had been arested by Marshall Dodson for steeling horses. Was 
taken to Camp Floyd and turned loose. He stoped till yesterday when Judge Cradlebaugh & 
Marshall Dodson Came to this City & Gee came with them and they did not objet to his going 
whare he pleased. Cradlebaugh told Gee that He was going to Calafornia in few days & was 
going to locate there. Thus with every exertion which has been made by the Gentile Judges, 
Army, Merchants, Gamblers, and all our Enemies to get up a war with the mormons in this 
territory The Lord God of Israel has warded of the blow, has faught our battles and giving us the 
victory and to him be all the glory, and he will reward the wicked as well as the righteous. 

13th We had about 10 inches of snow on the ground. The sun shines clear to day. Elder Amasa 
Lyman Called upon me this morning and went with me to the Historians office. After Conversing 
with G.A.S they both went to President Youngs. I spent the day scraping. I took supper with A. 

O. Smoot. 

14th G. A. Smith gave an account of a lead mine on the north side of the Beaver 25 miles down 
Beaver from the settlemet. Some of the Brethren are going to work it. I spent the day mostly 
scraping. I rode into the field to point out a place to build a House & stables on my 20 Acre farm. 

15th I went in Company with G.A.S & A. Lyman & Called up[on] U.S. Attumey Wilson and had 


Page207 




a plesant morning Chat. Was introduced to Mrs. Wilson. She appeared like [m..?] of a Lady. 
<Mrs Woodruff sent her> 4 <[baubles?]>. 

A Lyman S. M. Blair & others Called into the Historians office conversing upon a variety of 
subjects. Some letters were read. 

April 161 had a sick night with Cold on my lungs, ft is a warm plesant day. Thomas Bullock 
Called in & 1 let him have two Journal for helping Brother Kimball on his history for 1838, 9, & 
40. ft is a warm plesant day. 

Mr Morrell the Post Master had a fight with Dick James. He told Morrell that he was a Dumb 
Gentile Post Master who stole peoples Letter broke them open & read them. Dick James was 
Garland Hurts Indian fnterpeter. Morrell pitched into Richards James and they both Come out 
best. Morrell had his face scrached up badly. & Richards hid [had] his Eyes gouged some & was 
parted by the poliece & taken before the mayor. This was on the 15th. 

G.A.S. Received a Letter From Calafornia Containing one for Presidet Young. 1 carried it to him. 
He opened it. Found it [was] from John V. Cooper who tried to sell us the Musketoe Country. 
Asked some two or three million dollars for it. Now he offers it for $100,000, $10,000 dollars 
down & the remainder in Annual Enstallments. President Young told him while in this City if the 
whole Country which he proposed to sell was Covered 18 inches thick with solid gold plate & he 
Could have for picking it up he would not take it as a gift if he had to move this Church & people 
there. President Young said he must be a fool to still try to get him to buy that land, after telling 
him what He had. 

Presidet Young attended the High Council on a Case appealed from Referees Between Bishop 
Smith & Sanford Porter. The High Council Sustained the decision of the referees who sustained 
Bishop Smith. 

17th Sunday A Fyman Preached in the morning O Pratt in the Afternoon. 1 met with my Quorum 
in the morning. We did not Pray. 1 met with the Quorum of the 12 at 6 oclok. O. Hyde Prayed. 1 
was mouth. 

18th I 1 There was an Express Came in in the night saying that 2,000 of the army with Judge 
Sinclair would start in the night for Salt Lake City. All the police were called out in the night and 
arangements made to meet them if they attempted to Come in. 

1 set out 40 young trees to day. 

1 also attended a surgucal operation by Dr France & Anderson one of the worst surgercal 
opperations ever performed. His name was [ ] Hawkins from Bever. It was a malignant 

Canser. Commenced on the lip. At first it was not larger than a pea. It Could then have been Cut 
out with safety but some Friends advised him not to do it. Thought they Could Cure it, but It 
Continued to spread untill it eat up two thirds of the lower Jaw & nearly to the pallet. They Cut 
out 2/3 of the lower Jaw & one third of the lower lip & took out all the Chin but the skin & one 


Page208 




third of that. They sowed the tung to the upper lip whare it has to remain untill it heals up. If his 
tongue was now loose he would swallow it. It was the awfulest affair I ever witnessed. Their has 
been about 100 opperation of the same kind in the world for the last 100 years. 60 out of the 100 
lived. Needles were used for stitches. 

April 191 laid hands upon Brother Hawkins & blessed him. He looks as well as Could be 
expected after such an awful operation. 

I washed brined & limed 10 bushels of wheat to put on 5 acres. 

I spent a short time in the office & President D H. Wells Called in & I accompanied him to the 
House of George Alley. Soon the surgeons Came to Cut his right Eye out. He had tumor grown 
in the back part of his Eye which had pushed his Eye out of [his] head about an inch & bursted 
the ball. They gave him Clorifonn. In 10 minutes he was insensible. They took his Eye out in 
about 10 minutes more. He lay asleep all the time & was not sensible of any thing during the 
operation. 

When he Came to Brother Wells asked him if he knew what they had been doing. He did not 
know. Brother Wells told him they had taken his Eye. He said thank God for it. I annointed him. 
Brother Wells was mouth in administering to him. He rather felt as though he would get well. A 
hard substance had form about 2 inches long & about 2 inches in Circumference. The bone was 
Effected & they were afraid it was a Canser. If so there may be danger of its fonning again. 

20 I spent the fore part of the day in my Garden pruning my trees setting out Curants &c. I spent 
the after noon in the office. S. M. Blair Returned from Camp Floyd. The Calafornia Mail Came 
in. Not much News. 

211 trimed my buddied trees this morning. I went to the office at 1/2 past 10. Johnson the 
gambler Came from Camp Floyd. He reports that the army are still detennined to Come in. Will 
be in in two or three days. He says time will determin it. 

I dreamed last night I saw a large Lion got loose among a large flock of sheep. He was within a 
few feet of me. I got out of his way. I did not see that he done any damage or hurt any thing. 

I spent a part of the day in the office. I spent the evening at the Presidents office Conversing upon 
various subjects. 

Father & Moroni sowed peas. Robert & Wilford put in about 5 acres of wheat. A Cold night. 

22d I sowed some peas to day. Robert sowed some oats. 

I spent a part of the day in the office. I had some Conversation with Zerubbabel Snow about 
Camp Floyd. A Rumour is abroad this morning that a Company of volunteers from Arkansas are 
on their way to Iron County to punish those who had a hand in the Mountain meadow massacree 
& that a thousand men are on the way to guard the Governmet money in route for the armey. This 


Page209 




afternoon the City is filled with rumors saying that Johnson is coming to this City with two 
ridgments, that Col Johnson sent word to Gov Cummings if he did not straighten out Brigham 
Young & the mormons he should take the matter into his own hands. Also that 5 marshall went 
to Wm. Hickmans to take him. Also that Judge Cradlebaugh went south with several hundred 
men to make arests & c &e. 

James Furguson was vary sick and came near dying drinking poisioned whiskey. Bentley helped 
me move Books. 

April 23d There is so many rumours afloat Concerning the troops Coming here we packed up all 
the records of the office to save them from being burned in case the City should be burned. 
Brother Bentley helped me move a Box of Books. <1 put it in the safe.> 

24 Sunday John Taylor Preached in the forenoon. I met with my Quorum in the morning. Brother 
Pugmire prayed. Brother Richard Bentley was mouth. I met with the Twelve in the evening. E 
Snow prayed. C.C. Rich was mouth. 

President Brigham Young D. H. Wells & G. A. Smith had an interview with the Govornor 
Cummings. He talked vary plain to him. He told Governor Cummings he should not go into that 
military Camp alive for he should not live 5 minutes when he got there. If they Come to this City 
he should not be here & He told his Excellency he should look to him to protect his property & 
family and if the Army shot a gun into his house he would find it would be a deer shot for they 
would hear a voice from the mountains & they would find he would not be far off. 

Presidet Young said He was willing to go before any Civil Court and all the men on Earth might 
testify against him if they would tell the truth they Could not testify that He had been guilty of 
any Crime or sanctioned any Criminal act but he would not go into a military Court to be 
lin[ched?]. 

He said I will stay in these mountains while I live & If I Cannot live in peace I will destroy all the 
property in the Territory and our Enemies shall find it as barren as we did when we Came here. 
He said "I will not take the Council of any man that lives on the Earth but God" Himself. 

Our Enemies are not at war with me but they are at war with God & his kingdom & the Holy 
Priesthood, & If I would renounce my Religion I Could go into Camp Floyd or any whare in the 
world & be respected & treated kindly but I will not renounce my religion but I will maintain it 
while I live. I care nothing about property or a good [-] among the world. All I ask for is the favor 
of God & to do his will." And many other thing He said to Gov Cummings. 

I spent a short time in the Presidets office with the Twelve & others. The Eastern mail came in 
Containing 23 sacks two weeks mail. Not much News. It was not decided whether their would be 
an European war or not. 

25th I spent the forenoon in the garden. I planted two rows of grapes one row of Calaforney graps 
in the north row. The south row is Woodruffs white w[ater?] seedling. I got [] a letter from J. 


Page210 




M.Bernhisel & the Genessee Farmer. I had a feast & meeting with G. A. Smith & Family & 
several speeches made. I Called in the evening upon Presidet Young. 

26th I received all the Genessee Farmer this morning & sent Jacob Biglers to him By Br Samuel 
White who was going south. I took a waggon to the Blacksmith Shop to get the tyre set. 7 <men> 
were ready to Commence ploughing. I called at the office a short time in the evening. A 
Company was Called out as a guard. I walked up on the Hill. I saw some of the guard. I met two 
teams. <We took> 2 <cannon in the [-]>. I spent the night at home. 7 <cannon were brought for 
defense in case of any attack>. 

27 Robert & Wilford started for the west mountain to Cut timber. It is a plesant morning. I 
suffered much through the middle of the day with the nerveous head ake. The nerve of the right 
Eye leading to the brain was vary painful. It is the worst turn of the nervous head ake I ever 
experience. It was the 27 I went over Jordon & not the 28. 

281 worked in the garden in the morning & took my horses & waggon & Carried a load of men 
to a meeting at Z, Pulsiphers House over Jordon on land business. The Company voted to survey 
about 200 Acres of land & divide it among those who had worked on the dam. I sufferd much 
with the hed ake. Had to retire to bed for several hours. 

29th I suffered much with the head ake. I made five gates in the afternoon & was vary weary at 
night. I was sick most of the night. We had a strong wind. 

30th Cold & Cloudy. Moroni took my Durham Bull to the heard at Fort Harriman. I took my 
Horses and waggon & Carried G A Smith R. Bentley & John Jaques down the west side of the 
Jordon to attend the land sales. I Bought [ ] Acres including the full Lot [ ] in Block [ j 

of [ ] Acres and the west half Lot [ ]. 

It rained some in the afternoon. The Eastern Mail Came in. Not much news. 

May 

May 1st Sunday It rained all day & soaked the Earth thoroughly. It starts evry thing up green. I 
did not attend the morning prayer Circle. I met with the Twelve in the evening. J Taylor Prayed. 
E. T. Benson was mouth. We all Called upon the president till half past 9 oclok. 

2d A fine plesant morning. The whole Earth smiles with gladness. I spent most of the day in 
putting up my Grape vines onto frames & poles. W. H. brought 10 Horses to my yard to keep 
over night. They had brought in a herd of Cattle. The school Children brought some flours from 
the mountains. They had taken a Mays day walk. Moroni went to the west mountains with the 
ponies. 

3d A plesant Morning. We had a little rain in the afternoon and it rained all night. I spent the 
afternoon in the garden. 


Page2 1 1 




4 The Earth is soaked with rain. The hills are white with snow. It rained & snowed till after noon. 

May 5 I drew down 4 loads of polls & post west of Jordon & made 15 rods & 4 feet of fence for 
my share in the Joint field for 12 1/4 Acres of Land. It was a hard days work for man & beast. 

6th The roads are impassible for teams to my farm in the big field So in Company with Robert & 
Wilford I went around by the sugar house to my fann with two teams. We ploughed & Sowed 1 
1/2 Acres to wheat put on at the rate of 2 bushels to the Acre. Draged it well & laid it off for 
wattering & returned home. 

The Calafomia Mail Came in. The Editors are vary bitter against Utah. 

7th I spent most of the day in my Gardening. The Eastern Mail Came in Early in the morning and 
we obtained papers but not much news. 

8 Sunday I met with my Quorum. A Hinkley Prayed. R. L. Campbell was mouth. 

I attended meeting in the Tabernacle. O Pratt Preached upon the different glories and the Class of 
persons who occupied each glory & the punishment & reward of all Classes. 

I preached in the afternoon & bore testimony to the discourse in the forenoon & the fullness of 
the gospel & that Joseph & Brigham and others were true Prophets of God & that all the world 
who were fighting against the L D. Saints & their prop[erty?] were fighting against God and his 
kingdom & the Judgments of God awaited them and they had not the power to destroy the 
kingdom of God for he had planted the kingdom on the Earth & he would maintain it. If the 
wicked had power to kill the prophets they had not power to stop the work of God. 

I met with the Quorum of the Twelve. O Hyde Prayed. O Pratt was mouth. 

9th I spent most of the day in the garden. We ploughed the remainder of it. I planted Cotton, 
Corn, sugar Cane, Musk & water mellons, Pumpkins & squashes & Beans Madder & indigo. 

Marshall Dodson with James Ferguson & several others visited the Arsinol to see what they 
Could find. The gentiles are alanned & have reported that the mormons are preparing to arise up 
& massacree them & it is rumoured they have so reported to Govomor Cummings & that there is 
anned men in the mountains & Govornor Cummings Ordered John Kay the Territorial Marshall 
to go into the mountains & dispers all anned Bodies of men. 

10th We had a frost this morning. It is pleasant but Cool for the time of the year. G. A. Smith left 
with E.T.B on Thursday last & has not returned yet. 

On Sunday night while in Council May 8th C. C. Rich introduced to the Quorum of the Twelve 
Miner Prisbrey. He had married Joice Danse of sanbemadeno & took her to Cedar City. There 
she wanted a Bill but did not get it. He then took her to Bever. She Applyed to Daniel M Thomas 
Judge of the County court of Bever County. He gave her a Bill. She then brought him up before 


Page212 




the Teachers and accused him of Getting drunk & other things which she Could not prove & 
which he says was not a word of truth in. Yet there seemed to be a little prejudice against [him] 
so much so that they voted to take away his license or rather his Priesthood. 

He told his story to the Twelve and showed his Recommend as being in good Standing from 
Bishop Philo P Farnsworth. C. C Rich bore Testimony to the good Conduct of Brother Prisbrey. 

0 Hyde said He knew about those Austrailia women who had been in tow by Brother Famham & 
if Brother Prisbrey had not broaken any lay [law] he did not want him to loose his Priesthood 
through the Influence of that woman. 

He Called a vote and all the Quorum present voted that He be ordained to the office of an Elder 
which was done under the Hands of O. Pratt C C Rich & F. D. Richards C C Rich being mouth & 
a Licens given him signed by O Hyde On the 8 day of May 1859. 

1 spent the day in the office. I Called upon President Young. He invited me to walk with him in 
his Garden. I went with him A Carrington & B. H. Young. We went all through his Garden & 
orchard. It was a splendid sight Peaches & Apple trees all in Bloom. His large grape vineyard is 
puting forth its young & tender vines. He requested me to save him some of my Catawaba grape 
& in return would give me a Black walnut tree that would bear. I would have to dig around it in 
the winter & let it freeze & it would not injure it to take it up. 

I spent the evening at S. M. Blairs. 

1 1th A rumour is circulated this morning that the anny who have gone south have taken J. D. Lee 
and some dozen others. I set out some locus trees this morning on my water ditch. 

12th I went down into the big field to my farm. Had to go down via the sugar house in 
Consequence of High water. We Commenced work at 12 oclok. Put in 1 acre of potatoes. 

We Camped on the groung except Robert & myself took a Bed in a Coverd wagon. It soon 
Commenced Blowing a strong gale from the East. It was the strongest East wind we have ever 
experienced since we have been in this valley. It soon blew of my waggon Cover & nearly blew 
us out of the waggon. We had to abandon it. I took my Bla nk ets. Went to Job Smiths house. It 
was an exceding Cold [night], I lay down upon the floor. I became much Chiled. 

It came near blowing down the Chimney. It blew down about 40 rods of my fence & many other 
fences. It blew down some houses & blew in many gable ends of Adobie Houses in the City 
during the night the Embankment above Lorenzo Youngs house gave way it being on the Canal 
870 feet high & 200 wide on the bottom and a hevy body of water Came rushing down and 
destroyed many acres of land much of which was coverd of wheat Covering the land with several 
feet of rock gravel, Clay & sand sweeping away fences and doing much damage. 

May 13 The wind still blows vary hard this morning but we went to work & planted another acre 
of potatoes but it was perfonned in the midst of great labor as the wind filled our eyes & face 
with sand & dirt & it was with great difficulty that we Could stand upon our feet. We returned 


Page213 




home & saw the bad Effects of the wind & water as we travelled my Eyes were in much pain & 
face nearly blistered. The Eastern Mail arived late in the evening. 

14 □ I got 2 letters one from Uncle Ozem & one from his son Seth. Both were mostly religious 
letters. I set out some locust trees to day & spent a part of the day in the office. Gen Burr arived 
by the mail. He says that Judge Eckles is going to return & bring some artillerry with him. 

15th Sunday O. Pratt & Erastus Snow Preached in the Tabernacle. I attended meeting with my 
Quorum. Willford prayed & I was mouth. I met with my Quorum of the Twelve in the evening. I 
was mouth. John Taylor opened by prayer. Elder Kimball was Quite sick & was visited by 
Presidet Young G A. Smith & others. 

16th I went into my field & put up some 40 rods of my fence which had been blown down by the 
wind. I ploughed & put in about half an Acre of flax and opened a ditch & returned home. 

17th I took Delight & Willford & went to Fort Harriman. We gathered up twenty of our Cattle & 
Cows & branded them. Three we did not get, but they were on the range. Out of 23 Head I did 
not loose one, although it was a Hard winter. I spent the night at Brother Stockings. Distance 25 
miles. 

1 8th I rented a room of Brother Stocking & left Delight to keep house by herself to milk the 
Cows make Butter take Care of the Calves &c. I drew up a load of wood then took up my Horses 
and drove across the Country without any road to Harkers Kanyon whare Robert was getting out 
poles. Distance 20 miles. 

19th I started early in the morning with Robert & Wilford for the top of the mountain to Cut 
poles. A Grizzerly bear went up before us. He made a vary large track in the snow & mud. We 
waided through snow & over it whare it was 8 feet deep. We worked all day in about 3 feet of 
snow our boots soaked full of water and our feet became vary Cold. 

In the Afternoon we Cut about 100 poles mostly dry pine which would averadge 35 feet long. We 
slid them down the mountain through & over 3 or 4 feet of snow about a quarter of a mile & 
went down to our Camp. 

At night Cold & wet we made a good fire & dried ourselves mostly. I shot three sage Hens one of 
which we Cooked for supper, then turned into our waggon & slept for the night. 

May 20th 1859 We arose this morning. Took breakfast of my fowles, but I felt as though I had 
been fou[ndered?]. I was vary sore & stiff. Still we went into the mountain & performed the same 
labour as yesterday in the snow. We Cut about another Hundred of dry pine poles & slid them 
down the mountain over the snow. It was the first time in my life I had laboured in 3 feet of 
Snow on the 20 day of may. We had Cut during 3 day about 300 poles & slid them down the 
mountain two days of which time I labored. Robert Cut 90 before I Came also 80 pine House 
logs 18 feet long to build a House down on the farm. We returned to our Camp weary & Cold & 
spent the night. 


Page214 




21st We Cut a load of poles & put [them] onto one waggon & put some mahoganey, oak, & pine 
in the other & started for home. I shot one Badger, one Rabbit, & one hen & took [them] home. I 
Called upon the Presidet in the evening. The Eastern Mail had got in & brings report that The 
President Had removed Judge Cradlebaugh & had resolved to sustain Govomor Cummings in his 
peace policy in Utah. President Young remarked that I have often thought of my saying when I 
first Came here If they would let me alone for 10 years I would ask no ods of them. I believe I 
have asked no ods of them as yet. 

22d Sunday I met with my Quorum. A. O. Smoot prayed. Bishop Hunter was mouth. 

I learned that Joseph Abort was struck with lightning & killed instantly, also Wm. Harris was 
also struck & fell & the Horses with which he was ploughing drew him several rods & he Came 
to & is now alive. 

Presidet Young preached in the morning after Orson Pratt. John Taylor preached in the after 
noon. Was followed by Presidet Young. 

I met with the Twelve. There was O. Hyde O. Pratt W. Woodruff John Taylor & C. C. Rich & 
Erastus Snow preset. C. C. Rich prayed. O Hyde was mouth. 

23d I spent the fore noon planting my Garden. I put in beans, peas, Beets & Onions. We had 
quite a shower of rain. All the streams are up. Jordon is over flowing its banks. I spent the 
evening with President Young & others. 

24th I went into the big field sowed some half bushels of peas & planted some 2 acres of Corn. 
Robert & Wilford ploughed. I walked home at night. 

25 I had some Apple Cuttings sent me from the States. I Cut the buds off & budded them into 
Apple [trees]. I spent most of the day in the office. I wrote A Letter to Ilus F Carter ^ And 
preached a Little to him in answer to a religius letter which He sent to me. It was a vary Cold day 
and quite afrost at night. 

26 We had quite a Frost on the ground this morning. It killed many things. I spent the day in the 
office. I wrote a letter :]■ to Uncle Ozem Woodruff giving an account of temperal things in Utah. 
Planted sugar Cane in field. 

May 27th I went to the office early this morning whare I was infonned that James Johnson 
son of Luke Johnson was shot last night by one Gibson. There were 4 of them together, Jason 
Luce, James Johnson, Gibson & another one. Some words passed between Gibson & Johnson 
when Gibson drew a pistol cocked it & drew it upon Johnson when Luce took the pistol from 
Gibson & uncooked it & gave it back to Gibson. He then again Cocked it & few words passed & 
he drew his pistol & shot James Johnson. The ball entered below the Choller bone on the left 
side. Just escaped the Left Lung broke the upper rib went downward through the body. Dr's 
France & Anderson was sent For. They Cut out the ball on the right side of the spine of the back. 


Page215 




As soon as I herd of it I went down to see him on the upper Story of James Townsend House. I 
found him lying on his back suffering in much pain. When the ball hole was open or uncovered 
the wind would Come out of it evry time he breathed like a whistle. The Physicians staid with 
him till morning & Came while I was there. Dr France thought he Could not live over 24 hours. 
Mrs Woodruff Sisters Hiyde & Whitney Called to see him. 

I went to the Council House saw Thomas Williams & Gibson the Murderer in Conversation 
together. Williams will plead his Case. S. M. Blair will prosecute. 

I soon returned to James Johnson who was suffering much. Mr Miner & myself took Care of 
him. Many Called to see him. He Continued to Fail. His limbs & all his lower extremities 
seemed paralized & he Could not move them & had no sensation in them which was a strong 
proof that spine of the back was injured. He Continued to fail till 15 minuts past [ ] oclok 

when he said to me I Cannot stand it. I cannot lie here. I must get up. And he flung his arms 
wildly over his head & in about a minute more he breathed his last. 

I asked him if he had any word to say to his Father. He said No ownly he wished him to hasten to 
him as soon as he was dead. 

We sent for the Coronor Dr Clinton who Came & swore a Jury of 6 men who herd the Testimony 
of the men & surgeons. The Jury all not being satisfyed a post mortom examination of the body 
was Entered into. It was found that the ball had passed through the left lung & gone through the 
spine of the back and it was a wonder that He lived as long as he did. As soon as the examination 
was through the Jury retired to another room & brought in a virdiot of Came to his death by a 
Ball shot from the pistol held in the Hands of One [ ] Gibson. 

I immediately went to work. Had the body washed shaved & laid out. Mrs Woodruff made his 
Shroud. I staid with the Corps with Brother Miner & another Man till 3 oclok waiting for the 
Coffin to put him in but it did not Come. Brother Luke Johnson arived at about dark having rode 
some 75 miles and was thoroughly used up. He did not Come in to see the Corps. I went to bed 
about 4 oclok to get a little rest. 

The men planted sugar cane. 

28th I arose at 7 oclok went to Townsends Assisted in laying the corps into the Coffin & got a 
team & carried it to Elder Orson Hyde. Here his Father for the first time saw the body of his 
murdered son for a moment it almost over come him. 

The Funeral of James Johnson was attended at 2 oclok. W. Woodruff opened by Prayer. G. A. 
Smith spoke upon the evil Consequences of the introduction of so much whiskey into this 
Territory which was adulterated by Strictnine & this was introduced by the followers of the Army 
sutlers Merchants and a great Many persons were making use of it and much Crime was the 
consequen[ce]. When a man was found in the Gutter or had killed somebody he would make for 
an excuse that He was strictnined but if we all let the Liquor alone we would not get the 


Page216 




Strictnine. He made many remarks upon the evils of the use of Alchahal most of which was 
drugged. 

W Woodruff followed & spoke upon the great responsibility resting upon Parents towards there 
Children in giving them good Council & the responsibility of Children to obey their Parents & 
whare Children would not take good Council but would have there own way they would soon go 
to ruin & destruction. 

0 Hyde followed. Bore testimony to the truth of what had been said, & remarked that Parents 
should not allow themselves to sware or their children but should reprove their Children when 
they hear them sware. And many useful remarks were made. 

The meeting was dismissed by G. A. Smith. We then went to the grave yard & buried him in 
Brother Hydes Lot. 

29th Sunday I met with my Quorum in the morning. I did not dress for Prayer. Wilford Started 
for Rush valley to Carry Luke Johnson home. 

1 attended meeting at the Tabernacle. Judge Zerubbabel Snow preached well. Was followed by 
President Brigham Young who said that we should be governed by Revelation in all things & 
spoke much to Edifycation. John Taylor & E. D. Woolley spoke in the afternoon. 

I met with the Quorum of the Twelve in the Evening. John Taylor Prayed. G. A. Smith was 
Mouth. We spent several hours with the President. Leo Hawkins died at 1 1 oclok with the 
Consumption. 

30th Sarah had a daughter bom this morning at [ ] oclok. I spent the forenoon at the office. I 

attended Leo Hawkins Funeral in the afternoon. There was one of the Largest processions ever 
attended a Funeral in this City. There was 17 omnibuses & Carriges loaded accompanied the 
Corps to the Grave. R. L. Campbell opened by prayer. W Woodruff made a short address. Was 
followed by G A Smith with few remarks. 

311 wattered my Garden to day & for the first time since I have been in the valley I got water to 
run all through my door yard by means of troths. I went to the office at 4 oclok & wrote some in 
my Journal. 


June 

June 1st I rode to Fort Harriman with Brother Stockings & spent the night. 

2d I spent the day at Fort Harriman & hunting my stock on the range. 

June 3d In Company with Brothers Smoot, Eldridge, & Harris I rode to Great Salt Lake City & 
drove some stock. I was quite weary. Distance to Fort Harriman & Back 50 mils. 

4th I sold a yearling Steer to Robert Martin for $9 per cwt. It weighed 304 lbs. $27.36 cts. 


Page2 1 7 




Brother Hamblin Called in the office to day and left with us the History of his travels among the 
Lamanites from the Commencement. I was taken this morning with the Influenza vary severly. I 
spent most of the day in the office. 

5 Sunday I was sick this morning. I did not attend my prayer Circle. I attended meeting. Gilbert 
Clements preached in the morning followed by Presidet Young. O Pratt preached in the after 
noon. I attended the Circle of the Twelve. Erastus Snow Prayed. Lorenzo Snow was mouth. We 
Called upon the President a Short time. 

6th I was vary poorly this morning. The Presidents dam went off this morning Carrying the water 
to the Blacksmith shop. I went to the office at 10 oclok. Brother G.A.S proposed to write our 
History & keep our Journals in the deseret Alphabet. The Clerks Commenced writing it. /Hon J. 
M. Bemhisel arived to day. I had an interview with him./ 

7th I spent the day in the office. Brother Kington A. J. Sta[..ing?] & J. J. Stocking spent the night 
with me. 

8th I spent the day in the office. G. D. Watt has been giving us lessons in the Deseret Alphabet 
for several days. GAS left for Provo about 6 oclok. Brother Jacob Gates Called to see him a short 
time before he left & wanted to turn his herd of cattle up Coons canyon. GAS said He would 
fight any man that attempted it for He had had a great Deal of trouble with it. Brother Gates said I 
will go to see President Young about it. I do not know what success he met with. 

9th I spent the morning in triming my trees. I spent the day in the office. The firm of Livingston 
Kinkade & co had a train of Merchandize arive to day from the East. They wintered at Scotts 
Bluffs. Their train Consisted of 35 waggons 8 mules to each waggon. 

Cost $65 dollars each $2,375 

They had 240 mules $ 1 50 each 40.000 
Total Cost of Mules & waggons $42,375 

They Brought 70 tons of merchandize Cost not known by me. This information I received from 
the Teamsters who drove in the waggons so I Cannot vouch for the Correctness of the statement. 

Dr J M Bemhisel spent the evening with me. I settelled my Accounts with him. I Paid him 
$603.81 cts on settlement including $120 which He Paid to W Coward to buy a Bill of goods for 
me in St Louis. I have Cowards Receipt for the same. 

June 10th 1859 A vary warm day. I planted some sweet Corn this morning. I Called upon 
President Young in the after noon. Broth Carrington red his last sennan to him. I gave him & 
President Young each a Calafornia Greening Aple. President Young Called at the office to attend 
our lessons in the Deseret Alphabet. 

1 1th I spent the day <making water gates watering the garden. We had a very hard wind in the 
afternoon.> [Deseret.] 


Page218 




On the evening of the 1 1th The Presidency of the seventies & the Twelve met at the historians 
office. O Hyde presented the business of the meeting which was to go out once more & warn the 
Saints to sell no more grain but lay up all the food they Can get to prepair for a day of famine 
which is at the door. The Saints have been warned to do this for a long time but they have given 
no heed to the warning ie many of them. Others have. O Hyde W Woodruff & E. T. Benson 
spoke upon the subject. A meeting was appointed on Sunday evening at 6 oclok for the seventies 
& Twelve to appoint missionaries to go abroad among the people for this purpose. 

The Eastern Mail Came in. Brought word that war had Commenced in Europe. 

12 Sunday I met with my Quorum this morning. R. Campbell prayed & [ ] was mouth. 

I attended meeting at the Tabernacle. O Pratt Preached upon the second Coming of Christ the 
Building of Zion & Jerrusalem & their final location on the Earth. The Thrones of Christ & his 
Twelve Apostles will be in Jerrusalem while the New Jerrusalem & Zion of Enoch & the Zion of 
the Saints will be in Jackson County Mo. Adam dwelt in that land & the garden of Eden was 
there &c. W Woodruff preached in the afternoon. 

1 attended meeting at the seventies Hall. O [ ] spoke to the Seventies upon the subjet of going 

out to preach to the people to save their grain & sell no more. Was followed by W. Woodruff E T 
Benson & Joseph Young. Then some 20 missionaries were appointed to go out on this mission. 
Adjourned to meet at 6 oclok tomorrow evening. 

131 replanted my sugar cane in my garden this morning. 1 set out about 100 cabbage plants. 1 
spent the fore noon in the garden. 1 learn by the last mail that the Armies of France Italy & 
Sardena united have began to meet the Austrain army in Italy & Lombardy & some fighting has 
taking place & Blood has been shed, ft will be a Bloody war. Russia & France are in alliance in 
the great Struggle against Austria while England is strongly arming but trying to stand Neutral. 
They say they have an armey of 100,000 men in India 100,000 in England & she has the greatest 
Navy in the world, & is now offiering a premeum of £10 each for 100,000 seamen. In addition to 
their present Navy they have ordered all the war steemers on the stocks to be immediately 
Completed & prepared for sea. 

Mr Cooper was in the office to day from Calafornia to again try to sell the Musketoe Country to 
the Saints. This is strange as President Young told him when he was here befor that he would not 
take that Country as a gift & move this people to it if [it] was all Covered 1 8 inches with pure 
gold. 

1 visited my field in the afternoon. 1 Found my wheat had been flooded with water. Some person 
had raised the gate & let the whole stream of water run onto my field of wheat & flooded it like a 
lake for 2 days & nights which damaged it much. My Corn & sugar Cane is up well. All my 
Crops look well except whare it was damaged by flooding. 

Two hundred U.S. Draggoons returned from Origon & went into the South East part of the City 


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& turned all their animals into a 10 acre lot of wheat belonging to John Vancott. He went & 
politely invited them to take their Horses out & they arested him & kept him a prisioner all night. 
He was taken out of their hands in the morning. Governor Cummings made his protest against it. 
He told Vancott to make out his bill & send it to Col Johnson & if he would not pay it He would 
write to the department at Washington. The military power do not regard the rights of the Citizens 
in this Country. 

G. A. Smith returned from Provo at 1 1 oclok P.M. Elder L Snow returned to Box Elder. Took 
Phebe with him. 

14th I set out about 100 Cabages from Stanes this morning. I have a vary fine bed of kew garden 
Strawbury raised from the seed by Wm. Stanes. They show the Best of any in the Territory & 

[are] worth Cultivation. They are of the Alpine Strawbury. I spent most of the day in the office. 
Judge Eckells arived in this City to day. 

151 picked about 1 pint of my best strawburies & took [them] to President Young. He liked them 
much. Brother Staines & Edward Sayers Called to see my bed of Strawburies. Mr Sayers thought 
they were the ownly Strawburies He had seen in this Territory worth Cultivating. 

I accompanied President Young onto the top of his house & with glasses viewed the Country. 

The Jordon was vary high & the roads all around us are nearly impassable. The water in all the 
Streams are much higher than they have been for many years. 

The Probate Court of G. S L. City Commenced its regular Session on Monday the 13th. Is in 
session to day. The Case of Gibson for murdering Johnson was to be brought before the Probate 
Court for trial But the U.S. district Attorney Wilson is to take up the Case & argue the 
Jurisdiction of the probate Court in Criminal Cases. 

A young man From Grantsvill attempted to kill Charles White in Front of my house. I stoped 
them Fighting. 

16th I resurrected some Records which had been laid away for safe keeping. I spent the day in the 
office. It is vary warm. The Probate Court in session today Elias Smith Presiding. 

17th I budded a few 20 ounce Apples to day. It is vary warm. I spent the day in the office. We 
had our less[on?] at 5 oclok on the deseret Alphabet. President Young Came in at 6 oclok. 

Soon Hosea Stout Came & said he had been with Judge Eckles. He had been with the other 
Judges in Council. The other two Judges was disposed to try to set asid last winter procedings of 
the Legislature while Eckles contended that the Laws are valid & this is the seat of government. 
Eckels asked H Stout about the authority of the County Court. They talked over Utah affairs vary 
freely. 

G. A. Smith spoke upon his Travels in the East the improvements of the roads &c. 


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President Young has labored hard for several years to get the Deseret Alphabet introduced among 
the Latter Day Saints. He has finally introduced it in his office by having his Journals kept in it & 
we have Come to the Conclusion to keep our Journals in the Historians office in the same so 
from this date I shall begin to keep my Journal in the Deseret Alphabet. 


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in the office. W. H. Hooper called upon us today and gave us a plan. He had in his mind to bring 
goods into this territory so the people can have them cheap and the mines be in the hands of the 
Saints.> 

19th <Sunday I met with my quorum. E. Hunter prayed. W Woodruff was mouth. I attended 
meeting at the tabernacle and heard the army chaplain preach. He was an Episcopalian. President 
Young followed him and spoke in the spirit of God much to our edification. E. T. Benson and H. 
C. Kimball in the afternoon. I met with my quorum in the evening. O Hyde prayed. E. T. Benson 
was mouth. B. Young was with us for an hour.> 

20th <Wilford came home at daylight this morning. Robert came at> 8 <o’clock. One of the 
horses had got his hind leg fast in the rope around his neck and rolled> 300 <yards down the 
mountain and broke his skull and cut himself very bad. [-] he is alive at home. I went into the 
field and helped make a road. The eastern mail came in today. A small battle had been fought and 
few killed.> 

21, 22. 23, 24 <1 spent this week hoeing my corn, sugar cane and potatoes. > 


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25 <1 went to the office at> 10 <o'clock. I read historical letters in the forenoon. President Young 
came in the office and spent some three hours and conversed upon a variety of subjects. 

Governor Cummings said he thought he and [-] Hartnet should go to Camp Floyd to reside there. 
Wants a letter printed in the bulletin from one [L.nch?] about Hamblin ill treating the children 
that were left of the massacre. Marion G. Shelton took it to Dr. Horn to see if he would endorse 
it. Shelton told Horn it was a lie and Horn acknowledged it was. I spent the evening in 
joumalizing.> 

26 <Sunday I met with my quorum. Bishop Hoagland prayed. I did not attend meeting today. I 
met with the quorum of the> 12. <H C Kimball was present and stayed 3 hours. He appointed> 
52 <men to be taken into various prayer circles of the> 12. <The eastern mail came in today. I 
spent most of the day in the office. > 

June 27 <1 spent most of the day in the office. The eastern mail came in today. Not much news. 
Not much fighting. [-] the Pikes Peak gold mines mostly proves a failure and a humbug. It has 
deceived many thousands and caused great distress. Many are passing through this city daily for 
California. > 

28 <1 spent the forenoon watering my garden. [Bur.?] [-] said I must not work> so <hard.> 

29th Majer Reynolds Battery of Artilery with 6 Brass peaces & an Extra Carriage to Each peace 
was paraded this morning on South Temple Street oposite the Temple wall. They took up their 
line of march for fort Vancover about 10 oclok. There line of Baggage soon followed. The 
Deseret News isuede this morning Containing Judge Blacks Letter to the Utah Judges 
Reproveing them sharply For there Course. The valley tan is also out but is more mild than usual. 
<This is the hottest day of the season. The thermometer showed> 90 <in the shade.> [Deseret.] 

30 <1 spent the day in the office.> [Deseret.] 


July 

July 1 <1 budded some this morning. I spent the day in the office. > [Deseret.] 

I Called in Presidents Youngs office at half past 5 oclok. I was introduced to Mr Waggoner A 
Campbellite preacher by President Young. 

Soon Capt A. B. Miller of the firm of Wardle, Russell. Miller, &c Called in to see President 
Young & had quite a long interview with him. He said there were two & a half Millions of 
Dollars worth of goods at First Cost on the road for this market. There is more than 1,000 
waggons loaded with merchandize with 2 1/2 tons to the waggon. I think there is more than one 
million dollars worth of good more than Can be sold in this market for the next year. The western 
Merchants have been anxious to sell goods to Come to this Market for they paid up so well last 
year but they will not be as anxious to sell to the transient Merchants next year for it will be a 
long time before they will get their pay & I expet we shall have to buy out the Merchants in this 


Page222 




City before they get through. There is a vast amount of Cattle, Horses, Mules, waggons goods & 
people on the way to this Territory. Cattle will be Cheap this fall though many young Cattle will 
be driven through to Calafornia. 

Mr Miller said the people estimated that the mormon Emigration alone will be 25,000. President 
Young said he did not think there would be 1,000 Mormons. An Indians said all the white men 
East were going to Utah. They pulled up some grass & asked the Indian if he could tell whare it 
Come from or if He would miss it from the field of grass before him. He said No. They told him 
it was so with the white men. They were not missed whare they came from. 

Mr Miller thought Mr Livingston Bell & Co. will loose some $20,000 $30,000 or their Contract 
on Flour. President Young thought not, that they would by their flour for goods at a high price & 
would probably save themselves. Mr Miller said that much flour would be wanted. He wanted 
flour to feed about 1,500 men mostly at Bridger. Many men who are on the way to Calafornia 
will Come through here to get their flour. Mr Miller says that all Freight Can now be Carried 
from St Louis to St Joseph either via Rail Road or steemer for 15 cents per hundred. He said that 
a rail road would be in operation to kansas City in two years. 

President Young said Mr Miller perhaps you can inform the people whether the Armey in this 
Territory belongs to Majors Russell Miller & Company, or the United States for Many people are 
at a loss to know who it belongs to. Mr Miller Did not answer Diret. 

President Young asked if they were going to let us live a little longer here. He said yes the army 
will be reduced to 1,000 men by fall. We must keep them moving to keep money stiring. 

President Young said there is going to be a great sale of Mules. They will be sold Cheap & 
bought back dear. Miller Nodded assent. 

Presidet Young said I under stand that you brought word that Stephen A Douglass stands Fair to 
be the Candidate for the next President. Miller said He was sure to be the next President. The 
South has to unite on him to get votes in the north so as not to get Defeted. If he is Presidet I 
shall do business in this line for 5 years then I will quit but Wardle will remain in Washington to 
regulate affairs there & attend to business. He said they had got the Contract of Carrying the Utah 
& Calafornia Mail & has the whole Controll of it & all the government transportation for the 
army. After some other Remarks Mr Miller took his leave. 

After he left Presidet Young Remarked that I Cannot tell what to believe by what Mr Miller says. 
He talks so much he does not expet to be believed in all he says. He has a motive in view in 
Calling here. He wants to lay a plan to make our boys his servants in Carrying the Mail. If 
Wardle Majors & Co tell the Army to Move to any place they will move for that Company has all 
the power in their hands except the buying of the flour. 

Mr Miller Further said that Just before I left we received A telegraphic Dispach not to organize 
1,500 larg freight waggons for Utah & New Mexico. We sent word that they were to late for we 


Page223 




were already organized. Mr Russell went immediately to Washington to see what was up. 

2d S. M. Blair <got a letter from George> Eckles <saying that> Col Johnson <had said if the 
prisoners were not removed soon he would turn them loose.> [Deseret.] 

3d Sunday I met with my Quorum in the morning. Arza Hinkley Prayed & R. L. Campbell was 
Mouth. I attended meeting in the morning. O. Pratt preached upon the first principles of the 
gospel. President Young preached in the afternoon a vary interesting discourse. I did not attend 
the meeting. I met with the Quorum of the Twelve. J Taylor Praid & G A Smith was mouth. We 
Conversed upon both Temperal & spiritual subjects concerning our present interest in this 
Territory. 

July 4th At 4 oclok in the morning we were saluted with 9 rounds of cannon & several Bands of 
music. National Flags were hoisted at President Youngs Gov Cummings, Tithing office, & 
several other places. J. C. Little Marshall of the City Gen J. J. Ferguson & Staff accompanied by 
2 peaces of Cannon & a Band of Music march through various parts of the city saluted President 
Young Gov Cummings Atturney Wilson. The Horses ran away with one canon & injured several 
men. 

An assembly met at the Court house & red the Constitution of the United States. While doing 
this Charles Benson son of E. T. Benson rode up [on] Horsback & tryed to ride into the Court 
House while intoxacated. He was stoped by the guard Joseph Taylor. Benson drew a self Cocking 
Colts revolver upon Joseph Taylor & came near shooting him. Sheriff Burton interfeared & 
Benson drew his revolver upon him & came near shooting him. Then the Marshal J. C. Little 
took after Benson overtook him on horsback & collered him & Benson & Benson drew his 
revolver upon him & would have killed him if Brigham Young Jr had not hurled him from his 
horse & took the pistol from him. Charles Benson was then confined in the lock up. It is 
lamentable that young men in our midst should persue such a Course. 

A meeting of some of the prominent Citizens met at the Historians office to fonn a Chambers of 
Commerce to Benefit our Condition. Speeches were made by W Woodruff D. H. Wells Wm. H. 
Hooper John Taylor S M Blair & A. P. Rockwood. Capt Hooper presented a plan for organizing 
a Company to engage in Merchandize for the Benefit of the people to Bring goods Cheaper & 
leave the profits in the Hands of the people & to root out the Gentile merchants who are sucking 
our fifes Blood. Bishop Hunter was Called to the Chair & Richard Bentley was Chosen secretary. 
A Committee was Chosen to wait upon Presidet Young & lay the plan before him. This 
Committee was D. H. Wells Wm. H Hooper & A O Smoot. The meeting adjourned till 
Wednesday evening. 

5th Mr Christopher Hoover son in law of Luther Scammons of Lamoile Bureau County 111. 

Called upon me this morning. He had been to pikes peak for gold. Said it was a Humbug. Their 
was but little gold found there. He judged there was but little gold there & 100,000 men had been 
to those mines for gold & been disapointed & great distress was among the people & He was on 
his way to Calafornia. He Camped the first night in Vinson Shirtliffs pasture. Had 5 good Horses 


Page224 




stolen the first night. Had traced them to the little mountain East. I took Mr Hoover through my 
Garden & premises to the Historians office & printing office &c &c. 

J. W. Fox called at the office to day and gave an Account of my land in the field over Jordon. It 
is Block 16 Lot 11, over 8 acres, west half of Lot 12 over 4 Acres total 12 acres. It is 52 Rods E 
& W. 37 1/2 N. & S. 

6th I took an exploring tour over Jordon with A O. Smoot G. A. Smith S. M. Blair J W Fox & [ 

] Chrisman. We rode down the Jordon down to Bakers place then turned south west towards the 
Lake. We visited a tract of land of some 400 Acres of level Farming land with the intention of 
locating some Farming land. It lies some 6 miles from the Great Salt lake City. 

We returned & attended the meeting at the Historians office at 6 oclok There being present 
Presidets Young Kimball & Wells Elder G. A. Smith W. Woodruff A. O. Smoot S. M. Blair & 
many others. President Young was Chosen Chairman. Minutes of the former meeting [were 
read]. D. H. Wells Chainnan of Committee reported that they had laid the plan before presidet 
Young. He had not given his view upon the subject but had Come this evening to learn what was 
going on & wished Capt Hooper to lay his plan in a Brief manner before this meeting. Capt 
Hooper did so and spoke at length. Laid his plan before the people. 

President Young then spoke & Called a vote of the few present to know who would enter into it 
heart, hand & means. About a dozen voted. President Young then spoke & said that he knew the 
feelings of the people & their spirit & said that the people would trust their souls salvation with 
but would not trust their money with him & that He had sent to the States to buy his own goods 
but no man had put their money into his hands & said now lay out this money for your benefit & 
mine. He said he had laid down /groceries/ at about 16 cts per lb cotton Cloth of 12 1/2 cts per 
yard. He did not recommend the present system. The people would not be satisfied with Capt 
Hooper & Capt Hooper would not be satisfied with the people in the plan & it would prove a 
Curse to both parties, & we would see sorrow in it. 

He said the best thing we Could do for the people would be to raise sheep mix black & white 
wool make sheeps gray & Cloth the people. If this Community had done as much as I had to 
introduce sheep the whole Territory would make their own Clothing. I would make my own 
Clothing & wear sheeps gray. It is good Enough for me & my family & I should wear it but my 
Friends give me fine Clothes & I wear them out of respet to them. I told my family that when 
they had used up what they had on hand I should not buy them any more. They must Color with 
the products of this land. I should not buy any Coloring stuffs from the states. 

"I shall not stop my labor untill we Can make nails and Iron. I have sent for nail machines & 
intend to make our own nails. We have spent $20,000 dollars to make Iron & if those ingaged in 
the business had not had the devil in them we should have made good Iron before now. But I 
mean to keep to work at it untill I accomplish it. 

I will here reveal a secret which I have not told. Bell & Livingston Came to me last summer & 


Page225 




asked my advise. They told a sad tale of losses & said they Could not sell sugar & Coffee short of 
65 cts Cotton Cloth 35 cts and all things in proportion. I told them to ask it for I did not believe 
their were 20 fools in this territory. But I found there were thousands. He sold all his stock out at 
those high prices before winter. I beat myself in giving that Council. I wish they had Charged $ 1 
per lb for groceries if the people are amind to be fools enough to give it. I have not bought goods 
of these merchants. They have paid me $7,000 in gold annually for rents & I have sent most of it 
to the states for goods. I hope I shall have an opportunity of telling Mr Bell that He will not get 
my influence as he has done with this people. 

At the Close of his remarks He & Brothers Kimball & Wells Left. I made a few remarks 
sustaining Presidet Young in his remarks & moved to adjourn, sin die. It was carried & the 
meeting adjourned. 

7th G. A. Smith & A Lyman took the stage for the South Country at 8 oclok this morning. I spent 
the morning in wattering. I went to the office at 1 1 oclock. I met with Elder C. R. Dana. He had 
made a statement while in England to Orson Pratt that when my life was preserved on the night 
of the 5 day of July 1848 by moving my carriage from an impression which I had to move it, also 
to move my Mules from an oak tree standing beside the road, Both of which I done (see my 
Journal of July 5 1848), He says that He had the impression & urged me during the afternoon 
several times to do it. He also sayes that my Mules were turned out & not at the tree. Both of 
these statements are incorrect according to my best knowledge & belief & recollection & the 
account of my Journal, & testimony of my Journal written next morning & testimony of my wife 
& Dominicas Carter, both of which were present. 

I told Brother Dana that I Considered his statement not true. I had no recollection of his saying 
any thing about it untill I named it to him, and I knew I moved my Mules from the tree & tied 
them in a Hickory grove whare I found them in the morning. He had been to the trouble of 
making a New Journal whare he had detailed the account at great length apparently to esstablish 
his version of the Story But I am of the impression that he has told the story so often that He 
received a Revelation by which my life was preserved that He either believes it to be true or 
wishes to try to maintain what He has stated So often. He did not move the waggon in which he 
slep himself and the tree fell in about 1 foot of it. I felt thankful to the Lord for preserving my life 
& I wish to give Brother Dana all the Credit which belong to him in the affair, But I have No 
recollection of his Saying a word about it to me untill I named it to him. Neither has any one who 
was with me any recollection of it. This I told him & we parted both firm in our own belief. 

I spent the afternoon in the office. 

July 8th <It is a cool morning. I spent the day in the office. We had a hard rain in the evening and 
a shower in the night.> [Deseret.] 

9th <A cool morning. I spent a part of the forenoon in the office. I called at the presidents office 
at noon. He was settling some difficulty with [— ] Captain Hooper on Babbits estate. He rode out 
in the afternoon. It rained some in the afternoon. I called upon President Young> H. C. Kimball 


Page226 




& E. Hanks were sitting with President Young. <Soon> H Stout <came in. A man had been 
arrested for forgery. They would not let him have counsel. > H Stout <gave> B Young 3 <letter 
from> G A Smith <saying that the prisoners were let loose and they had not come to [-] > 
[Deseret.] 

10 Sunday I met with my Quorum. W Woodruff Prayed. Bishop Hunter was mouth. John Taylor 
preached in the morning at the Tabernacle & O Pratt in the afternoon. I Called at President 
Youngs. There was present all of the Presidency Elder O Pratt W. Woodruff C. C. Rich E. Snow 
H. Stout & Snow of Provo A. Johnson Isaac Bullock Rigs, & several others. The subjects of the 
Prisioners that were turned out of Johnson Camp was brought up. They were put into the Hands 
of Isaac Bullock the sherif of Provo City. All the prisioners went with Bulock to Provo except 
Durfee. He prefered to remain in the Camp. Bartholemew said he had done wrong in testifying at 
Camp. Had said what was not true & wished to get into the good graces of the people. They sent 
to Hosea Stout for Council & wished to imployed him to Conduct his Suit. 

President Young in speaking of the Crops said that we shall have potatoes yet this season. They 
will grow yet. 

I met with the Twelve. There was present O. Pratt W. Woodruff J. Taylor C. C. Rich & F. D. 
Richards. C. C. Rich Prayed. F. D. Richards was Mouth. Mr Hoover spent the evening at my 
House. 

1 1th The Eastern Mail Came in last evening & was opened this morning. The war Continues in 
Europe some battels fout & blood shed. 

Horace Greely Editor of the Tribune arived in this City with the mail. He has been with Dr 
Bernhisel this forenoon. Went to the Hot spring with him. 

Mr Hoover called at the office. Gave O. P. Rockwell a description of 4 Horses & 1 Mule Stolen 
out [of] Mr Mousley pasture. He gave him authority to take the animals whare ever they Could 
be found. 

I learned to day that Col Johnson sent an escort of Cavelry to guard the prisioners out of the 
Camp so they would not be mobed. 

President Young Called at the Office a short time. Hosea Stout received a Letter from David 
Mckenzie requesting Him to come & plead his Cause & bring such evidence as he thought 
proper. He was accused of Forgery. H Stout asked President Youngs Council. He said He did not 
wish to talk about it but said The Lawyiers were not required by any law to go to that Camp & he 
should not do it & if He was his Lawyier he should advise him to let the Judges do as they 
pleased at the examination & if I was in his place I would Neither Deny nor Confess any thing 
but would remain Silent. 

If he is guity he ought to be Cuffed for I have employed him for 2 years & paid him & helped his 
family & for such a man to ingaged in such a business I feel like spanking him. They seek evry 


Page227 




opportunity to Hatch up an accusation against me. If MCkinzie will tell the truth it will be all 
right as far as I am Concerned But if my enemies Can get him to lie against me or any body els so 
they can make a war on me then their will be a fight on hand and this will be as soon as the Lord 
will. 

Brother Hosea wrote to MCkinzie that the holding of a Court at Camp Floyd in a military Camp 
was illegal & Contrary to the instructions of Judge Black & President Bucannan. I shall not 
Come to plead any Cause in that Camp. 

A man called upon President Young & infonned him that he had found a good bed of stone coal 
on the Webber from 4 to 10 miles above the mouth of echo Canyon. He found three veins of the 
Coal about 3 feet each & the man is an old Col[yier?]. He ingaged to deliver to President Young 
100 tons of Coal at $20 per ton. 

12 President Young Called into C[o...?] Commission [-]. E. T. Benson was present. He has been 
to provo & held a meeting. Saw Brother Cams & told him that he herd that He was Brain 
Cracked & low spirited. He said that it was true and any man that Could be shut up in a dirty sell 
as long as I was with some 25 drunken Irish who were Cursing, swearing, fighting, spewing, & 
shitting & trampling over me without being Brain Cracked & down spirited then He has a 
stronger spirit than I have. I vomited many times nearly all there was in me. 

H Stout said that Wilson remarked that He expected that Judge Cradlebaugh & Sinclair would 
Join Issue against Buchannan & Judge Black But whatever they done Stout said they would Be 
mean themselves. 

President Young dreamed a few nights since that He saw those Judges drunk & they behaved as 
/bad as/ they Could. Evry thing they done was dirty and filthy. 

The Probate court has been in session about four weeks and Adjourned to day Senedi. I spent the 
day in the office. 

July 13th I went over Jordon & staked out my grass ground & went to the office at 1 oclok. I 
found President Young & D H Wells in the office. President Young invited me to meet at his 
House at 2 oclok as He was going to have an interview with Horace Greely. 

I met agreeable to invitation. I Found Mr Greely A Singular looking man. He was midling well 
dressed white but bald Headed. His head vary dirty. Looked as though He had not washed his 
Head since He Came off the plains. He had quite a feminine soft green appearance. He asked 
many Question. 


Questions Asked By Horace Greely & Answered 
By Brigham Young 

At 2 oclock P.M. The following Persons met at President Youngs upper Room Lion House in the 
Mansion: B Young H. C. Kimball D H. Wells J. M. Bemhisel W Woodruff S M Blair H Stout A 


Page228 




Carrington J. Ferguson Elias Smith, & Horace Greely Editor of the Tribune when the following 
Conversation took place after the Company was introduced to Mr Greely by the Hon J. M. 
Bernhisel. Also Joseph & Brigham Young jr. was introduced But they soon left. 

Mr Greely asked Presidet Young what is the difference between your religion & Church from the 
Christian world? 

B.Y. The difference between us is that we believe that No Church is the Church of God, who has 
not the Holy Priesthood. We have the Priesthood & the sects of the day have not got it. The Lord 
has delivered the Priesthood unto us & without the priesthood no man has authority to administer 
in the ordinances of the gospel. 

G. Do you believe in faith & what is it? 

B.Y. We do. Paul said it was the substance of things hoped for the evidence of things not seen. 

G. What do you Believe about slavery? 

BY. We believe what the Bible sayes about it. There was a Curse put upon Cain & his seed & 
that Curse will remain untill it is taken off. They were to be servants. 

G. Is this a slave territory or are there slaves here? 

Y. There is slaves here or have been from time to time. 

G. Then this would become a slave state would it not if it was admitted? 

Y. No the Climate & situation would not admit of it. Slavery is a thing I do not want any thing to 
do with it. I Consider it more of a Course to a man to have slaves than a Blessing. 

G. So I think. Do you tithe the people if so what for? 

Y. Yes one tenth to Build Temples, & to Feed the poor and I want you to understand one thing & 
I want you to write it just as I tell you & that is I do not have so much as one Cabbage or ear of 
Corn of the tithing ownly what I pay for. 

G. Do you have a salary? 

Y. No sir not one cent. 

G. Then how do you get your living? 

Y. I would think myself a poor financeer if I Could not work for Nothing & keep myself. There is 
No man from the Highest to the lowest in the Church that Has a salary. The Presidency, Twelve 
Seventies & all the Elders who labour for the interest of the Church do it without a salary. The 
Elders travel the world over as it were & go without purse or scrip or money & all preach without 
a salary. 


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While building a Temple in Kirtland we had a Committee of three who spent there whole time. 
They were allowed $1 per day each man. We had a Committee of three in building the Nauvoo 
Temple. They had $2 per day each. I do not know of any other who have a salary. Joseph Smith 
one gave H. C. Kimball Credit of $2 on Book for some labour. Brother Kimball had it taken off. 
Said he would not have a Credit for it. 

We have appointed a Committee of one Mr D. H. Wells to superintend the building of a Temple 
here. He has No salary. I prefer a Committee of one instead of any more to transact any kind of 
business if I want to do it with dispatch. Then he does not have others to Council but Can act 
upon his own judgment. 

We hire men /& clerks/ to work in the Church who spend all there time as day labourers. We pay 
them wages. 

G. Do not the Bishops have salarys? 

Y. No Sir. 

[G.] Are all the Mormons under obligation to gather together and upon what principle are they 
required to gather? 

Y. Yes we Consider ourselves under obligation to gather together By the Commandments of 
God. The Bible teaches the subjet of the Gathering in the last days. 

G. We have understood that the Bible teaches the Jews to gather to old Jerrusalem. 

Y. Yes & it also teaches the Saints to gather to Zion. 

G. Do you think there Can be any Collision between the Monnons & the United States? 

Y. Not if they let us alone & do not persecute us more than we are able to bear, but they Can 
Croud us to a point which would make a Collission. 

[G.] What was the Cause of so much oposition to Joseph Smith? They accused him of stealing 
Horses & Cattle & doing much Evil. Now the Methodist used to be much opposed & were vary 
unpopular. But I do not recollet of hearing them accused of such Crimes as the Monnons are. f 
am vary unpopular in my religion. J am a whole souled Universalist yet we are not accused of 
such crimes & I do not recollet that the Saints were in the days of Christ. 

B.Y. f think sin. If you will look carefully at the History of Christ & the Apostles you will find 
that all manner of Evil was spoken against them falsly. As to Joseph Smth he was a good man & 
he was persecuted even unto death because he did do good. He passed through over 30 law suits 
got up by his enemies & it was shown in evry instance that He was innocent & it was got up 
through persecution. 

G. What are the Danites and what infonnation Can you give me Concerning them? 


Page230 




Y. I Cannot give you any information Conserning them. You will have to [be] enquiring of our 
Enemies & they can tell you all about it. We know nothing about any Danites. We have no such 
society or Company among us. 

G. You are accused of many Crimes. 

Y. And so were the saints in the days of Christ & the Apostles. Evry exertion has been made 
from the begining to Bring some accusation against us. While trying Joseph in Missouri before 
Judge A King He asked Joseph if he believed in the se[tling?] of the kingdom in the last days that 
the prophet Daniel spoke of. Joseph said he believed what the Bible said about it. The Judge said 
Clerk put that down. That is treason. Col Donaphen who was Josephs Lawyier said you had 
better make the bible treason & [be] don with it. In the days of Christ the Jews said if we let him 
alone he will Come & take away our state & Nation. That is what our enemies are afraid of now 
that we shall esstablish the kingdom of God. 

G. Do you believe in infant sprinkling? 

Y. No we baptize Believers By emersion. 

G. Do you believe in any New doctrin? 

Y. No none ownly what the Bible & Book of mormon teaches. Have you not read the Book of 
Mormon? 

G. But vary little of it. How extensive are miracle in the Church & are they Confined to the 
leaders of the Church? 

Y. They are as extensive as it is the will of God to give. They are not Confined to the Head But 
all Elders lay hands upon the sick when Called upon and the sick are often healed. 

G. Yes but some die I suppose. 

Y. Yes the saints & sinners have died in every age. Death has passed upon all mankind & they 
Cannot escape it. 

G. Your doctrin of Polygamy is not that against the Bible? Paul said A Bishop should have one 
wife. 

Y. That is Correct Doctrin. You should not take a single man for a Bishop. He should at least 
have one wife. But Paul did not say that he should not have but one. There is nothing in Pauls 
words against his having a dozen. 

[G.] How many wives has any one man had in the Church? 

BY. I suppose I have as many as any one man. I have some 15.1 have some aged women sealed 
to me upon the principle of sealing which I no more think of making a wife of than I would my 


Page23 1 




Grand Mother. 


G. Has it been long that Poligamy has been practiced in the Church? 

Y. It has been practiced for some 16 years. Have you not read the revelation given upon that 
subject? 

G. I have not. I think it has not been published till late. Did Joseph Smith have more than one 
wife? 

Y. The revelation was published in Aug 1852. Joseph Smith had more than one wife. 

G. How do the women receive the Doctrin? 

Y. Quite as well as the men. I do not think there is a woman in the Church that opposed it more 
than I did in my feelings. How many wives have you Mr Greely? 

G. Ownly one. 

H. C.K. How many Misses do you keep? 

G. Not any. 

BY. I do not think their is a member of the Church in this room that has had any Connexion with 
a woman except his wife. If Mr Greely Can say as much, then I think you are virtuous. (He did 
not answer it.) 

G. I would like to visit your Schools while here. Do you have free schools? Do the Church pay 
for the schooling of all the Children? 

Y. No all pay their own schooling at present. 

G. I hear that the church is rich. 

Y. The Church have some buildings here. 

G. While Journeying here it was reported that the animals of the emigrating trains belonged to 
the Church. 

Y. They are not Church animals. They belong to members of the Church probably. 

G. Were not the leaders of the Church poor? You say you have no salary. You seem to be 
wealthy. I do not see how you get your property. 

B.Y. I gathered some property in kirtland. I earned it with my hands except half of a pig which 
weighed 90 lbs which Joseph Gave me. We had to leave kirtland through persecution. I Came to 
Nauvoo with nothing. I there got a property through my labor & the Blessings of God. 

We were driven from our property there & I had to Borrow to get here & now my Property I 


Page232 




suppose is worth some three hundred thousand dollars. And you may ask any man in heaven 
Earth or Hell, if I have wronged him out of a dollar and if you Can find such a man I will make it 
right. I have wronged No man. I have paid for what I have had as I have said I do not have as 
much as an Ear of Corn out of the tithing office ownly what I pay for. I Borrowed money to help 
the poor when I Came here and I want you to write my statement as I give it for it is true as the 
son. 

I financeer my affairs according to the wisdom God has given me & I trust to him & he alone 
gives me my increase. There are fears here that there will not any potatoes grow. I shall look for 
potatoes when it is time to dig them. I do so with all my business. The Lord kan make me rich or 
poor Just as he pleases. I Care not a groat for all the gold & silver in the world and Jesus Christ 
did not. 

G. The leaders of the Church must have some advantage. The City lots here sold for some price. 
Did it not go to the leaders of the Church? 

Y. No all the setlers paid for their City lots was $1.50. $1 to the Surveyor Mr Sherwood & 50 cts 
to Thomas Bullock the recorder. 

G. How do you get farmes here? 

Y. The land belongs to the United States and all the Claim setlers have is possession and 
improvements. When men take up unsurveyed lands they pay the surveyors fees & when they 
buy improvements they pay for them according to there value, & what they produce all men like 
to speculate more or less & men are apt to get what they Can. 

G. I Calculate that I am about the ownly man who speculates who has not bought some land in 
the western Country, or a City lot. Many who have speculated in land have become poor. You 
have had two or three split off. How do you Consider them? 

Y. The same as all apostates. 

G. Do the Bishops make Bishops or how is itdone? 

Y. The people meet in Conference and if they want a man to preside over them as a Bishop they 
vote for him and he is ordained a Bishop to preside over them. 

G. Can the people reduce a Bishop to the laity? 

Y. The people Can remove a Bishop from presiding over them by a vote & chuse the one they 
wish. 

G. Who is the President of the Church? 

Y. You know that I am the Presidet of the Church. I have my two Councellors. Mr Kimball & 
Wells here are my Councellors. Then we have Twelve Apostles & Seventies & various Quorums 


Page233 




in our organization. 

G. My neighbors religion does not trouble me any how & I see no particular harm in your 
religion and I am glad to leam so much from you about the rule management, & organization of 
your Church. I now know much more about your Church than I ever have before. How many 
Clergy men of other sects have Joined your Church? 

Y. Not a great many & they are not often worth much when they do Join. For the Clergy men 
Doctors & Lawyiers make about as poor Saints as any Class of men we have for they do not like 
to work much & the mormons work for a living and I believe I am about the ownly man who 
does not work. 

G. I think there is not many Editors Come among you by the looks of the papers published here. 

Y. No and if they should we should be careful not to Employ them to publish for us. 

G. I think it would be a good plan to sow the Canida thistle all over the sage plains & deserts. It 
would renevate the soil & make food for Cattle. 

Y. If that is your opinion pray dont tell the people of it for you Could not introduce a worse 
plague. If the people was to introduce Canida Thistles it would Come Nearer to driving out the 
mormons from the Country than any thing els. They would ruin any Country. 

G. O I think they would be a great Benefit & if they got into your grass & fanning land you Can 
eisily kill them by mowing & salting them. 

Y. I think not. 

G. I think the Army was sent here esspecially for your Benefit & the Benefit of Wardle & Russel. 
You are getting rich through the anny. 

Y. The people are making money from that source. They introduce money, Cattle, waggons 
Horses & Mules. The people buy the waggons for the Irons for $15 or $20 of the largest Class, 
Containing some 6 or 800 lbs which is quite a help to the Country whare Irons is scearce. 

G. The whole Country is lined with Iron. There is many miles of Chains & if I lived in the 
Country I would pick it up & Cash it. 

Y. The Government would claim it. 

G. I would give them so many days Notice then to take it out of the way & if they did not do it I 
would take it myself. There is more good timber in one of those large freight waggons than 
grows in this whole Territory. I dont believe in your having a Famine or that there is going to be 
any Famine. 

Y. What do you refer to? 


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G. I see it published in the Deseret News. 

Y. Yes you refer to Orson Hydes Famine sermon. 

G. We had 2 frost in the states & it was reported that evry thing was killed on the 1 1 June in the 
North But I do not think that the frosted district was vary extensive. 

[Y.] We are improving evry year in agricultural pursuits & when we get ah the [Dr?] & Lawyiers 
to work we shah raise ah you want. I dont think we shah have any Famine. 

I have travelled through many parts of Europe. They are Capable of raising much food. I think 
Lombardy with its irrigation is the richest part of Europe. 

[G.] Mr Young I shah have to state in my report that I Consider your system of poligamy is 
reducing the female Here to the oriental state. I see no Chance for the female here for her to 
develop herself. I see no Female signs out in this City. I see no Chance for a woman ownly to be 
a first or fifteenth wife. 

Y. A woman here has ah the Chance or liberty here to develop her talent or Capabilities of doing 
good & filling her sphere that she has in any Country But I do not want any woman to Council & 
dictate me in the direction of my affairs. If I did I should think I ought to have been made a 
woman. 

G. I dont Care whether a person is man or woman. I think they should have the privilege of 
Developing their Talent. It is well enough for a woman to bear Children But I think they ought to 
rule when they are Capable of it. Queen Elizabeth was the greatest?] Ruler England Had And 
Catherine was one of the greatest Soyreigns of Russia But Poligamy I think has a tendency to 
bury up the talent of women. 

H. C.K. Is it worse to be a mans second wife than to be a whore? 

G. I dont know that it is. 

Here Mr Greely Closed his interigations, Took his hat Bowed to the Company & retired. 

After Mr Greely left Conversation turned upon the opposition of our enemies. Presidet Young 
said the Lord has said he would fight our Battles & give us the victory & he has done it thus Far. 
Should the Lord say now draw the sword & fight many would Cut their way through an Enemy 
& turn around & fight over the spoil. This would gratify two many evil hearts and that would not 
do. 

President Kimball said God holds Gov Cummings to do his will for us. If he was to let go of him 
he would be our bitter Enemy. 

14th I spent the fore part of the day in the office the afternoon in getting Hay. 


Page235 




151 spent the day in the office. In the after noon I called upon Presidet Young & red to him my 
report of his interview with Mr Greely. He was pleased with it. It met his approbation. I also red 
it to D. H. Wells in the Historians office. } I wrote a Letter to G. A. Smith. 

16th I spent the day hoeing sugar Cane & Corn. I attended a meeting of the Typhographical 
Society at the Council House. Mr Horace Greely was present. The meeting was got up for his 
specil Benefit. There was quite a room full of Brethren & sisters, and a Band of music. After a 
few tunes by the Band & a short Prayer By Gilbert Clements we herd a speech from Mr Horace 
Greely & I must say that I was entirely disappointed in the man. I was asstonished at his speech, 
language, & appearance. He appeared far more like a clown of the lowest grade than he did like a 
man of letters, ability, & extensive influence & a conducter of one of the most popular Journals 
in the Nation. I was at a loss to know whether he was playing the possum or had lost his senses. 
He appeared to me like a man who had accidentally Stumbled into notiriety popularity & wealth, 
for neither his head, Phisiognomy, looks, acts, or speech indicated in the least a man of 
knowledge, refinement talent, influence, or ability sufficient to edit a Tribune. His speech was 
reported by G D. Watt. I did not take Minutes. 

It is true there was some sense in what He said but the language he used & his manner of 
speaking nearly destroyed all interest in the sentiments advanced. He Commenced in a whineing 
drawing out of his words in a vary flat manner in a babyish stile as though he had neither a 
knowledge of language or Grammar while at the same time we must be fully aware that he is 
vary proficient in both for He has Edited & conducted the Tribune the most popular & widest 
Circulated paper in America for more than thirty years. 

He Commenced by saying Mr Presidet Gentlemen & Ladies I am happy to meet with you here to 
night esspecially to see so many females. I havent seen a woman before since I have Come into 
this ere place not that belong to this people & I dident expect to see one while I was here. Well I 
do declair I am glad to see so many women here to night. I thought I was ownly going to meet a 
few poor printers. I dident expet to see any women at all But I expet you are Connected in the 
printing business in some way or other. The printers talked of gitting me up a dinner. Well I 
declair I thought it was to hot to Eat dinners much. I Could get along without any dinner & with 
but a poor Breakfast if I Could ownly in the morning take up a News paper & read what all the 
world had done the day before & gess what they would do today. I Could get along with the loss 
of all the luxeries that you are deprived of if I Could have a telegraph wire that would tell me all 
that was going on in all the world. 

He Confined his speech to the printing business telegraph wire & the improvements of the day. 
Told how long he had been in the printing business the improvements that had been made in that 
art since He Commenced. He now had a steem press that Could print 20,000 sheets per hour & 
should not be satisfied untill he Could put on one ton of paper in one Continues roll onto his 
Cilender & print 40,000 sheets per hour & fold, Cut, & dir [ . ] them by steem which improvement 
he was sure would soon Come in use. 


Page236 




He was followed by Elder O Hyde who spoke upon a variety of subjets & believed in a telegraph 
wire which would reach from heaven to Earth so we could get revelation of God from heaven & 
other world. 

Elder John Taylor followed & spoke of many things & of the Conduct of the Judges in this 
Territory. Gilbert Clements spoke also John Banks. James MCknight red to Mr Greely a poem 
from Mr Lions welcomeing Mr Greely. He flourished a Candle with such velosity around Mr 
Greelys head that I think he left a sprinkling of speann upon his Close Brother Dunbar sung a 
song. Brother Mabyan sung a song about the man that Could never get warm and at 1 1 oclok they 
adjourned to the Globe to take Ice Cream &c but I returned home & did not attend. 

17th Sunday I met with my Quorum in the morning. A. O. Smoot Prayed. Bishop Hoagland was 
mouth. I attended meeting at the Tabernacle. O Pratt preached in the morning upon the evidences 
of the Book of Mormon. Mr Greely was in the stand. He paid particular attention to the females 
as they came in but he slep most of the time during the sermon. Mr Greely also attended in [the] 
afternoon & slept while John Taylor preached upon the systems of the day. 

I met with the Twelve in the evening. John Taylor prayed & Erastus Snow was mouth. We 
Conversed upon a variety of subjets. Brother Benson gave an account of Mr Greely going into a 
store to buy a neck tie which was quite amusing. 

July 18th Robert & Father Commenced Cutting my barley to day. I spent a part of the day in the 
office. The Clerks were Cleaning the office. Hon J. M. Bernhisel Horace Greely J. Taylor & 
Orson Pratt visited in the Afternoon. They visited Presidents Youngs H. C. Kimballs & W. 
Staines also. 

19th They finished Cleaning the office. I watered the guarden in the morning Called upon J. M. 
Bernhisel & done some Choreing. The Eastern Mail Came in. Gave an account of the wars. The 
European powers have commenced some hard fighting. In one battle it is said that the Austrians 
lost in killed wounded & taken prisioners about 20,000 men the French some 12,000. We had a 
hard rain last night. 

20th Robert Scholes <started for Camp Floyd this morning to buy a pair of mules. I spent the day 
in the office.> 

I met with the Presidency and Twelve at President Young office at 8 oclok for the purpose of 
taking into Considerration the subject of our Candidate or Delegate to Washington. We 
ascertained that our enemies intend to run Dr Hurt for a Candidate and Hartnet would give him a 
Certificate if he did not get more than 5 votes on the plea that Horace Eldridge was not a 
Resident of this Territory having been absent nearly a year. 

A Number of voters Came in. We organized a Corcus or meeting by appointing S. M. Blair 
Chairman & A Carrington Secretary. The meeting resolved to Drop the name of Horrace S. 
Eldridge & insert in its stead the Name of William H. Hooper so that our Enemies will have no 


Page237 




Chance to Cavil about it. It was resolved to print a Circular forthwith & that F. D. Richards & 
Joseph A Young start early in the morning for all the southern Settlements & distribute the 
Circulars as far as the lowest Settlements also that John Taylor & Orson Hyde go North as far as 
Box Elder & Cash valley for the same purpose. Presidet Young wrote a letter. 

I left the office at about I oclok at Night. It was supposed that the Gentiles would try to vote at 
Camp Floyd & get the armey to vote. 

\ I Baptized my Daughter Bulah Augusta at 7 oclok in the Evening. She was 8 years old 
yesterday the 19th. 

211 Confirmed Bulah Augusta this morning. I spent the fore part of the day in the afternoon in 
Company [with] J. L. Smith. I budded George A Smith's orchard. We put in about 200 buds of 
the Choisest apples I have in my orchard. 

22 I spent most of the day budding in my orchard. I spent the evening in the office. It has been a 
Cloudy windey day. Robert returned from Camp Floyd & brought a pair of Bay or mouse couler 
mules with a black streak on the back. He paid $185 for them. Wm. Kimball made the purchase. 

I had a Bill of sale. They are marked US and C. on the near sholder * [ lazy W ] on the Near 
sholder. 

23 I Called at Presidents Youngs office & herd 2 letters read to him from Joseph W. Young & 
Coward from St Louis. Brother Busby will start with a train on the 5 of June, the Hand Cart train 
on the 10 with 200 men 52 cart & 8 waggons. The Church train on the 15 with 59 waggons for 
the Church & 1 1 of other men in the Charge of Brother Horton D. Haight is a good Judge of 
animals. James Brown is Coming with 60 waggons of Emigrating Saints. Vary Healthy no death, 
good feelings & unity. J. W. Young & George Q Cannon got the fixings for the outfits. All doing 
well. Pikes peak Excitement arising again. 

24th Sunday I met with my Quorum in the morning. Br Bentley prayed. Br Pugmire was mouth. 
O Pratt preached in the morning E. D. Woolley & Wm. W. Phelps in the afternoon. O. Pratt 
prayed. I was mouth. We Consecrated 1 1 Bottles of oil for President Young. We called upon 
president Young & spent about 2 Hours. 

25 I spent the day ploughing & Hoeing potatoes. They were vary weedy. They should have been 
hoed 3 weeks before. 

The District Court opened yesterday in [the] Secretary's office & sent the marshall out to 
summons a Jury while our laws have appointed a way for the Juries to be apointed but the Judges 
pay no regard to our laws. 

26, 27, 28, 29, & 30 I spent the week laboring with my hands. 2 men called upon me by the name 
of Brown from Richland Oswego County New York who were Neighbors to me when I lived 
there. They were well acquainted with my Brothers Azmond & Thompson Woodruff. They were 
on the way to Calafornia. 


Page238 




3 1st Sunday I met with my Quorum in the morning & Wilford Woodruff jr. prayed and E F. 
Sheets was mouth. I attended meeting at the Tabernacle. President Young spoke in the morning. 
He said it appeared to be dark among the people. He said he Could feel it. He spoke of the way to 
life & the way to death. Elder Vancott spoke a short time. In the Afternoon H. C. Kimball spoke 
& was followed by B Young upon the kingdom of God. He preached one of the most interesting 
discourses I ever heard. It was reported By G. D. Watt. I met in the evening with O Pratt & 
Erastus Snow for prayer. E. Snow prayed. O. Pratt was mouth. 

August 

Aug 1st I drew 2 loads of Hay in the fore noon & drove my mules to Fort Harriman in the 
afternoon. Emma & Wilford went with me. 20 mile. 

2d Wilford & I rode all day after our horses & Could not find them on the range. I went on to the 
top of the highest peaks & traveled till dark then got my supper & started for home. Sarah 
Delight Woodruff [was] with me. It was dark. We Could not see the road & the Mules would not 
keep it so we lost the road & wandered about for some time without any road. 

When about half way home we met Robert Scholes Coming with one of the Horses we were 
hunting. They had gone home to the farm across the lots & fields & had got separated & but one 
Could be found. I arived home at about day light having been riding or walking for 24 hours 
having travelled about 80 miles. 

3d T 0 After resting about 1 Hour I mounted a Horse & Robert & Moroni a mule each to go & 
again hunt for my horse. When Robert got about 40 rods from the House being on a Strange 
Mule that had not been broak to ride the Mule plunged into the air with him & Jumped Stiff 
legged & flung him over his head & then Jumped onto him with his fore feet & then kicked him 
in the head split his right Cheek open & Cut a gash in his head & came nigh killing him. He 
walked back to the House & left the Mule. I put him up. Dr France sowed up his Cheek & in the 
evening he walked out. I rode some 15 miles after the Horse. Wilford & Moroni Hunted nearly 
all day but we Could not find him. I went to bed about sick at night. 

4th We met at the Tabernacle for a fast meeting. President Young spoke in a feeling manner. 

Said if there was a man that had a spark of fire in him either the Twelve or any body Els he 
wished they would blow it into a flame that others might keep it lest the fire go out. He was 
followed by H.C.K. John Young, Joseph Young, Elijah Everet several other Brethren & 2 women 
also spoke & the meeting dismissed. The Calafomia Mail Came in to day. 

5th I went to Cradeling wheat & oats to day. I Cradelled about 1 1/4 acres it being about the first 
Cradleing I ever done. 

6th Robert got able to go into the field to day. He finished Cutting the oats. I raked & bound. 

7th Sunday I watered my garden in the fore noon. I met with my Quorum in the morning. [ ] 


Page239 




Prayed. Dr Dunyon was mouth in the Circle. Wm. Gibson preached in the morning, President 
Heber C. Kimball O. Pratt & Daniel Spences in the afternoon. I met with the Twelve in the 
evening. O Hyde Prayed. O. Pratt was mouth. 

8th I drew 4 loads of Hay which finished my haying. I Paid for tithing 3,785 lbs of Hay. I spent 
the fore part of the day at home. 

9th to 13 I spent the week mostly Harvesting. I laboured vary Hard. I had 7 acres of wheat, 1 of 
Barley 1 3/4 of oats 1 1/4 of Hungarian grass. I washed my wheat Clean & put about 2 quarts of 
lime & 1 1/2 of salt to the bushel & mixed it all up on a floor let it stand 24 hours. 1 then sowed 
two bushels to the acre. 

1 had heard strong brine recommended for seed wheat to Cure smut so I tried it & I put on 2 
bushels to the acre in the spring so that it might be thick enough but when it Came up it was vary 
thin not as thick as 1 have had it with one bushel. 1 am of the opinion that the salt killed a good 
deal of the wheat so it would not grow. I Judge the Crop to yeild about 30 bushels to the Acre. I 
have had 40 with one bushel of seed. What 1 did have was good, ft Contained No smut. 

14th Sunday I met with my Quorum in the morning. 1 attended meeting at the Tabernacle. Orson 
Pratt preached a great sermon upon Setting up the kingdom of God as spoken off by Daniel, ft 
Comforted the heart of the Saints & made the Ears of men tingle who were opposed to the 
Kingdom of God. He was followed in the after noon by John Taylor. In the evening 1 met with 
the Twelve. O Pratt prayed. 1 was mouth. 

15 to 19th 1 also spent this week Harvesting. We finished Cutting wheat on the 18th. The 
Merchant trains are coming in almost daily. A vast amount of Goods are now in this market and 
many are selling quite low. 

20 1 spent the day in the Endowment House. I assisted Orson Pratt in the washing & anointing. 1 
Called in the evening at the Historians office. 

21 Sunday I met with my Quorum in the morning. A. O. Smoot prayed & Bishop Hunter was 
mouth at the altar. O Pratt & H C Kimball spoke in the fore noon & Jeter Clinton in the 
afternoon. 1 met with the Twelve in the evening. E. T Benson Prayed & C. C. Rich was mouth. 1 
was up nearly all night watering my Garden. 1 was quite unwell. 

22 1 spent the forenoon in bed the afternoon in the office. A Lyman returned from the South. 
Called upon G. A. Smith. I Conversed with him a short time. 

23d 1 spent the fore noon at home the afternoon in the office. The Eastern Mail Came in bringing 
the News that Peace was again proclaimed in Europe. The Emperors of France & Austria had an 
interview & had made peace. 

I Called upon President Young & herd some letters red from Brother Kesler. He said there Cattle 
were dying of the marren & wanted 100 yoke sent to there assistance. Presidet Young wished the 


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Twelve to get up the Teams & send them out. We met with Bishop Hunter & arangements were 
made to get the oxen. F. D. Richards was appointed to go out & meet with the Teams & people. 

I walked with President Young to the Blacksmith Shop & then to his New building put up for 
washing wheat. It was quite an ingenious affair. I received a letter from Lorenzo Snow upon the 
battle between the soldiers [] & Indians at Cash valley. 

24 I budded an Apple tree in the morning with Rhode Island Greening. I spent the day in the 
office. 

25 I spent the day in the office. I wrote a letter to C. W. Wardle. } 

26 I spent the day in the office. President Young Called in in the afternoon a short time. Brother 
Joseph Young Called a short time & Conversed upon the sugar works. 

27th I spent most of the day in the Endowment House. We gave 12 persons their Endowments 4 
men & 8 women. Presidet Young done the sealing. I spent the evening at the office. The first 
Number of the Mountaineer Came out to day. I read it. It is quite Creditable paper. 

After I retired to bed in the evening near 10 oclok I heard fireing in East Temple street. Some 
over 20 shots were fired in rapid succession. I immediately dressed & went into the street. I went 
to the Historians office & to the President office & found all quiet. I made all enquiry I Could & 
Could not learn what had been done. Some thought a rowdy Company had fired ownly for the 
purpose of Creating an Excitement. I returned home & went to bed. 

28th I wattered my garden from 5 till 9 oclok. I then met my Prayer Circle. Brother Sheets 
opened By Prayer & Brother Pugmyre was mouth. At the Close we learned sumthing of the 
Effects of the shooting last night which was sumthing like the following: 

Wm. Hickman Had a difficulty with Charles M Drown who had sued Hickman & got Judgment 
against him. He Wm. Hickman & his Company was in Town During the Day. Rodney Swazey 
son in law of Drowns Called upon Drown During the day & told him he must settle it with 
Hickman or take the Consequences. 

In the Evening several men Came to Mr Martins House whare Mr Drowns & Eddy the spiritualist 
& Arnold were stoping. Had gone to bed with there wives on the floor. The man wished to Come 
into the House to get a light. They would not let them in. They then went away. Then Arnold 
took the ownly pistol in Company & went out to his waggon. Soon the men Came back being 
several of them. They had on legings & spirs. They Came to the door & ordered them to open it 
or they would mash it open. Eddy & Drowns tried to hold the door but the men outside burst it in 
then Commenced shooting at random at those within. They shot Mr Drowns through the Body & 
Came near shooting Eddy & his wife. Mr Arnold who was outside run to the mouth of the lane & 
shouted murder as loud as they Could Hollow. One of the party ordered him to stop his 
Hollowing it was all right. Another one of the party said shoot him Dam him shoot him. They 
then shot at him several times & shot him through the thigh. He then returned the fire & saw a 


Page241 




man drop. 

This is the report of Mr Eddy who was an actor. Mr Drowns died at about 1 1 oclok. He gave his 
Dying Testimony that it was his son in Law Rodney Swazy. Judge Sinclair took his Testimony. A 
post mortom examination was held upon his body. 

I attended meeting in the Tabernacle. Orson Pratt Preached in the forenoon. H. S. Eldridge spoke 
in the afternoon & gave an account of his mission the situation of the Emigrating Companies. All 
getting along well. He was followed by H C. Kimball who gave an interesting variety discourse. 

I met with the Quorum of the Twelve. There were O. Pratt W. Woodruff & G. A. Smith present. 
O. Pratt prayed. G. A. Smith was mouth. I then went to Bishop Hunters to attend an agricultural 
meeting which lasted untill 9 oclock. 

29th I called at the presidents office with E. T. Benson & G. A. Smith. President Young was not 
in. We did not see him. I spent the day in the office. Brother Bentley Called at Mr Drowny to get 
a Correct account of the shooting which Mr Eddy gave. 

Elder James Brown the 3d arived in this City to day as the captain of the 1st Emigrating 
Company. He Called upon President Young who advised that some of the Twelve meet the 
Company on the public square & address them & give them some advise. I Called upon Elder O 
Pratt to go with me to meet them. They did not get Carralled untill after Dark & as they had not 
anything for supper we Concluded not to address them till morning. We provided food for their 
supper. They had about 390 in their Company. They had 2 deaths & 5 births while on the 
Journey. They were well united & their Captain James Brown had done all in [His?] power to do 
them good. 

30 In Company with Elder Orson Pratt I went to the Union square to meet with the Emigrating 
Company. The Horn was Blown at half past 6 oclok & the people Came together who were 
Composed of many Nations. They were from Iceland Norway Sweeden, Denmark, Jennany, 
Switzerland, Sweeden Italy, France England, Scotland Ireland & the United States. 

I addressed them & welcomed them to this land. I gave them Council upon a variety of subjects. I 
was followed By Elders O. Pratt, C. C. Rich O. Hyde& A. Lyman & some remarks from James 
Brown the captain of the Company at the Close of the Meeting. The Company began to disperse 
various ways to go among the Settlements. I took home with me a Brother [ ] Cole & his wife 

& 5 Chidren & gave them one of my front rooms. 

I spent the day in the office. We read Ezra T. Bensons History. Brother Josiah Hardy & Robert 
Scholes Commenced Hewing their logs to build a log house on the farm. D. Huntingdon] 
reported that the Indians killed 3 Emigrants & Burned 5 waggons. 

Aug 311 spent the day in my field drawing & stacking wheat & Hungarian grass & mowing sun 
flowers. 


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After I Had retired to rest Dimick Huntington Called upon me & informed me that Elder Hyde 
wished to see me. I went & had an inteview with him. He informed me that a young man had 
rode 100 miles to inform him that Judge Eckless who was holding a Court at Nephi had issued a 
warrant for him on the fals testimony of a woman who said that he gave Council Condeming the 
killing of the Parrishes which O Hyde said was fals. The messenger said a possee was sent for at 
Camp Floyd to Come and take him & he new not what hour the posse would Come. He said his 
Course was marked out. <1 had an interview with President Young who said let Hyde take care of 
himself.> 

Ormus Bates informed me that Wm. Hickman told him that what he was doing was by the 
Council of the Authorities of the Church meaning the Crimes which was Committing such as 
Stealing Cattles &c. I told Bates it was Fals. Their was not a Righteous man in Israel who either 
Councilled him to take such a Course or sanctioned his doings. I told Presidet Young what He 
had said. 


September 

Sept 1st I attended fast meeting at the Tabernacle. Presidet Young gave vary good instruction. 
Was followed by D. H. Wells & many others. The Church train arived & was drove into 
Presidents Young yard at half past 4 oclok. They had about 70 waggons loaded with goods all in 
good order under the Charge of Brother Kesler. 

Some theives Came into my Garden in the night & stole about a Bushel of Apples. They took 
some of my best Grafted Apples my 20 ounce & Jersey Blue a vary fine Apple. Thieves are vary 
troublesome in this City at the present time. 

2d In Company with G. A. Smith I visited Presidets Youngs sugar Mills & Nail Mills Burr stones 
&c which Came in the train yesterday. He also brought a fine young Jack & Jinny. I spent the day 
in the office. 

3d I spent most of the day in the Endowment House. O Pratt & myself ordained one Elder & 
gave endowment to some 10 men. We attended to their washing & anointing. Presidet H. C. 
Kimball & D. H. Wells attended. President Kimball gave an interesting account of past days & 
gave good instruction upon principle of Being true to each other & doing right & not mingling 
with the wicked for the sake of gold. 

4th Sunday I met with my Quorum in the morning. R. L. Campbell opened. Anthony Ivins was 
mouth. I attended meeting at the Tabernacle. Brother Michelmas preached in the morning & G. 

A. Smith in the afternoon followed by Brother Kesler. 

The Hand Cart train arived at about 6 oclok followed by a large Croud of Citizens. They Camped 
at the public square. 

Sept 5 I visited the Hand Cart Camp on the square. The Company was dispersing vary fast & 


Page243 




getting homes. I Bought a waggon of Claudious Spencer at $60. 1 spent the evening in the office. 

6th I Called at the House of Brother Wm. P MCintyre at 1 1 oclok. Amasa Lyman soon arived & 
sealed Edwin Henry Moss to Elizabeth Ellett who had been married a year. 

Soon Dr France & Anderson arived to operate upon brother Moss who had a leakage of the main 
artery which fonned a bone or shell vessel which would near a gallon around the thigh bone 
which is supposed to be filled with Blood from the main artery. Brother France said if he was to 
open it it would kill him almost instantly so they intend to Cut into the body above the groin to 
the main artery & tie it up so they Can take the limb off. It is a vary Critical Case. They 
Concluded they would not operate upon him to day as they wished to move to some better place. 
We stand much in need of a hospital in this City whare such Cases Can be attended to. I went to 
the office in the after noon & had history read. The Eastern Mail Came in at 10 oclok & there 
was a hint that it would be opened at 6 oclok. 

7th I spent the day at home in the forenoon & the afternoon in the office. We had a strong wind. 
It broke down some of my peach trees. 

I visited Joseph Youngs sugar works & Sayers garden. The sugar works look well but I do not 
like the Boiler as well as I do the heavy sheet Iron pans as I think it will take three times the 
amount of wood. 

8th Cool morning. I Called upon Elias Smith & requested him to republish the premium list for 
the Benefit of the public. I spent the fore noon in the office the after noon getting Adobies to 
make my fumices. 

Ferrymore Little arived. Reports that Brother Homer will be in in the day. He passed Brother 
Wright the 7 Aug Below Ash Hollow. Thought He would not get in this year without Help. He 
said the road was lined with thieves. They tried to steal his animals & did steal 5 of the best 
Mules He had. 

9th I weighed my sugar Mill this morning. It weighed 680 lbs. I Cut off some of my best graphs 
for Presidet Young & sent him 2 of Woodruff sweet pippen. We are infonned that Lord Richard 
Grovesnor son of Marques of Westminister (of London) is in this City on a visit & will visit 
President Young to day. I wrote 7 letters ^ To the following persons: Ezekiel Kellogg & 
Thomas Burnett of Provo, Isaac Shepherd Fannington, George W Crocheron North Ogden, Wm. 
Butler Kays ward Bishop Isaac M Stewart South Willow Creek, and Rufus Allen of [ ]. 

10th I spent the day in the office reading History. 

1 1th Sunday I met with my Quorum. J. M. Mody prayed. W. Woodruff was mouth. I attended 
meeting at the Tabernacle. Elder O. Pratt preached in the Tabernacle in the morning upon the 
first principle of the gospel. He spoke lengthy but made his subject vary plain. 

Lord Richard Grovesnor Son of the Marquis of Westminster was present. He had an interview 


Page244 




with President Young who feasted him on grap[es] & fruit. Took him on to the top of his house 
whare he Could have a good view of the City. Lord Grovesnor is a young man about 22 years of 
age small in stature vary plain in dress and puts on no more airs than a plain Country farmer. 

G A. Smith preached in the afternoon followed by N. V. Jones & Presidet Heber C. Kimball. 

I met with the 12 in the evening. F D. Richards Prayed & Erastus Snow was mouth. We all went 
to President Young, & stayed till 1 1 oclok at night Conversing upon a variety of subjects. 
President Young said that N V Jones said an old man in India vary aged & a vary learned man 
told him that there was a History in the Percian library giving an account of 2 families leaving 
Jerrusalem & building a vessel & set sail for a western Continent which agreed with the account 
of Lehi & Ishmael & their families Coming to America as given in the Book of Mormon. 

Presidet Young also said that the seer stone which Joseph Smith first obtained He got in an Iron 
kettle 15 feet under ground. He saw it while looking in another seers stone which a person had. 
He went right to the spot & dug & found it. 

In speaking of the Lamanites He said we Could not do much for them & the Lord would not [do] 
a great deal until they were willing to do sumthing for themselves. 

121 took my team & Carried G. A. Smith & A P Rockwood to the penetentiary. Samuel Richards 
also went. We went as inspectors. We visited the penetentiary in all its appartments & had some 
Conversation with MCkenzie & Thorp the ownly two prisioners. We returned home. I spent the 
evening in the office. 

131 visited A. O. Smoot in the morning who was quite sick with the Bilyous fever & Bloody 
flux. I administered to him with L. W. Hardy. I spent most of the day at home. 

141 visited Phineas Youngs garden in company [with] G A Smith & J. L. Smith. Brother Kesler 
Called in the office a short time. I spent most of the day labouring for myself. 

151 disposed of 1 1 5 doz peaches this morning. I have to guard my orchard day and night in order 
to save my fruit there are so many stealing. I Caught a man stealing my peaches on a tree about 
10 feet from my Father who was lying down asleep. I took after him but he out run me & got 
away. Many persons have stolen fruit from me this season. I spent the evening at the office. 

16th I spent most of the day in my office. Capt Stevenson arived with his train about 6 oclok with 
about 70 waggon. 

17th We had a hard stonn of wind & rain last night. Some thieves went into my garden last night 
& stole about a dozen musk mellons. Took them under a peach tree that was loaded with fruit eat 
the mellons & Cut them up then stole about a bushel of fruit. I spent the day in the office. 

18 Sunday I met with my Quorum at 9 oclok. Bishop Hunter prayed. Richard Bentley was mouth. 
I attended meeting at the Tabernacle. J Gates O. Pratt T. B. H Stenhouse & H C Kimball spoke in 


Page245 




the morning & Erastus Snow Oleen Liljinquist, Robert Nuslin & H C Kimball in the after noon. 

At 6 oclok AM. I met with President j_ Young Kimball & Wells, & O Pratt W Woodruff J Taylor 
Erastus Snow E T Benson & F D Richards of the Twelve to Bless the missionaries. The 
Presidency & O Pratt W Woodruff Blessed & set apart for missions John Vancott Jacob Gates, E. 
H. Blackburn N. V. Jones Lewis Bertrand Oleas Liljinquist for foreign missions & Wm. H 
Hooper as delegate to Washington & Andrew Moffit to go on Business & John Taylor Blessed 
Marian J Shelton to go on a mission to the M[o.wiches?]. 

Presidet B Young then gave the Missionaries good instruction. Promised them great Blessings if 
they would do right & keep out of the snare of women which is the overthrow of more men than 
any other Evil & among other things He said they should do a greater work than the same 
number of Elders ever did. 

And when you labour in thinking till you get exausted dont tax your mind in that stage but stop 
thinking. It is a wrong doctrin to always keep up a constant thinking. This is the way I get 
through so much business. I will deal with fifty different subjects in an hour & when I get 
through I will think no more about any of them. I Can lie down & go to sleep in a minute & let 
my mind & Body rest & my business to. Dont fret or get a hurrying spirit for that wears the body. 

This is a gloriouse doctrin & one that would do me much good if I Could or would practice it. He 
said Capt Hooper would be much better off if He would practice it. The Twelve did not met in 
the Circle. 

19th I started my sugar mill to day. I paid for two waggons, 1 gallon measure, 1 Schimm[on/er?], 
some Barrel Iron, & 10 lb of sugar. I groung some Cane for J Hardy & made a gallon of fine 
surrup about as thick as Hunney out of 6 gallons of Jute. I groung some for A. O. Smoot. It did 
not take over 4 gallons of guce to one of surrup. It was vary ripe, but it was injured by letting the 
seeds be on some of it & poorly striped which made it bitter. I made some for J. L. Smith 8 
gallons of Juce to 1 of surrup. It was green. 

20th I spent the day at home. Also the 2 Id. 

22nd I planted out my strawburies to day. We had a rainy night. 

Sept 23d A rainy day. I spent the forenoon in the office. I went into the field in the afternoon with 
the men & got two loads of cane. It was not ripe. I cut my left thum quite bad. 

24d I was quite unwell to day. I spent the afternoon in the Endowment house. We ordained one 
Elder & [7?] men had their Endowments. I spent the afternoon & night Boiling Molasses 
I[ncide?] 37 gallons. /Brigham Young D H Wells & O Hyde visited my works. / 

25 Sunday I was unwell. John Taylor preached in the morning Joseph Young in the afternoon & 
W Woodruff spoke upon the subject of the Coming fair. 


Page246 




I met with the Twelve in the evening. O. Hyde Prayed. O. Pratt was mouth. It was the first time 
Elder Hyde has met with us for some time. He has been absent for some 3 weeks in Consequence 
of hearing that there was some warrants out for him. The evening was spent in conversing upon 
the subject of the Ten tribes in the North Country, the Higher law of god in oposition to the law 
of gravitation in the assention of Christ Elijah & Enoch & the City of Zion to heaven upon the 
Same principle a portion of the North Country Containing the ten tribes may be separated from 
the Earth. O Hyde & others believed they would soon return. 

26 I spent the fore part of the day Choreing for myself the after noon in the office. I met with A. 
P. Rockwood at the Historians office & wrote a letter to Daniel Carnes the warden of the 
Penetentiary & gave him directions as inspectors to provide a certain list of articles to supply the 
prisioners. 

We Called into Presidents Young office and there learned That John Geen had just been found 
dead in the Street. Was shot dead throug the head. It seemed quite doubtful whether he shot 
himself or was shot by another. He had been abed most of the day. Got up in the evening aranged 
his accounts Called his family together had prayers put on his pistol went out into the street & 
soon two reports of a pistol was heard. When he was found his pistol was lying betwen his legs. 
Two barrels was just discharged & another Cap broke. The general impression is that He shot 
himself. He killed a man by the Name of Condit on keg Creek in Ioway in 1847. 

President Young in speaking upon the subject of the wicked men & Devils that surround us at 
present [said] that we should soon have peace & have power to Controll the evils around us. 

A messenger has arived in advance of the mail & reports that [the] government has ordered the 
anny to stop selling the government animals & to immediately fit up one ridgment & move on to 
the santa Clara to winter & in the spring go to Calafomia & a rumour is that President Buchanan 
has sent word to Brigham Young that He will prove to him & to the people of Utah that He will 
remove evry obstruction out of their way & give them equal rights to any other Territory in the 
union. It is also rumoured that orders have been sent to wind up the firm of Russel Miller [-] in 
this City. 

I went home at 10 oclok & spent the [-] boiling molasses. I went to bed about daylight. 

Some person Came & stole about 8 gallons of good thick molasses after I left the works. I also 
heard last night that 3 men was seen on Sunday night at the window of Blair & Fergusons office 
anned with pistols. The same night some men Came to my Front Door & tryed to get in by using 
fals keys. 

27th I spent the forenoon at home & the afternoon in the office. The Eastern Mail Came in this 
morning. It was not opened till near night. I obtained The genessee Farmer The daily Advertiser, 
and one Milennium Star. I spent the night at home making molasses but the evening I spent at 
President Youngs reading the news of the day. He had a hard storm of wind & rain through the 


Page247 




night. I was up late. 

28 I am not well to day. Brother Cole is again sick & Confined to his bed. Robert & Wilford are 
runing the cane mill. 

29th Robert & Wilford went off to sell a load of p[each?]s. Brother Cole is vary sick. I spent the 
day & night at the sugar mill. 

30 Brother Cole is som better to day. 


October 

Oct 1st I spent most of the day in the Endowment House. I Carried in my fruit & vegitables to the 
state fair which was open to receive all articles to day. 

2d Sunday I met with my Quorum this morning. A Hinkley Prayed. H Slov[.] was mouth. 

At 12 oclok [P]M. I went to the House of Brother MCintyre with Dr’s France & Anderson & 
Richardson & Mo[...] Blair Ferguson & others. We administered to Edward Henry Moss who 
was in an awful state with an osteo-aneurismal tumor of the thigh. The surgeons amputated his 
leg at the hip Joint. The operation was performed in 6 minutes and the leg lay on the floor at the 
foot of the surgeon & in a few minutes more the arteries were taken up wound dressed & the 
patient put to bed. 

The case was one of great interest esspecially to the surgeons. The tumor extended from the Hip 
Joint to within a short distance of the knee and measured twenty four inches in Circumferance 
which was an extention of the Bone. The patient was Comfortable after the operation. He had 
suffered with it for many years. 

I met with my Quorum in the evening. W Woodruff sen prayed. John Taylor was mouth. The 
evening was spent in Conversation Concerning our duties. 

3, 4 & 5 I spent most of my time in the State fair. 

6 I met in the general Conference & fast meeting. The people spoke & much of the spirit of the 
Lord was with the people. 

7th & 8th I spent the time in the Conference. President Young preached several Discourses which 
edifyed & instructed the people in a manner which asstonished both Jew & Gentiles. The power 
of God was greatly upon him & he made the great truths of Heaven plain unto the people. 
Presidents Kimball & Wells also spoke in the same spirit. Most of the Twelve also bore 
testimony. 

9th Sunday I met with my Quorum. W Woodruff Prayed. A Hoagland was mouth. 

I attended the Conference through the day. President Young Preached in the fore noon upon the 


Page248 




text "What is man that thou art mindful of him?" It was one of the greatest sermons I ever heard. 

It imparted great light & knowledge to the people. It will be published to the world. 

Several spoke in the afternoon & the sacrament was administered. At Noon I sealed a woman to 
Brother Mumford at President Youngs office. I met with the Quorum of the Twelve. L Snow 
p[rayed]. O Hyde was mouth. 

10th I Bought 20 lb Hoop Iron & Lumber to make barrels to Hold my molasses. My family 
gathered the last of my peaches in my orchard. I spent half a day in the office. 

1 1th I spent the forenoon at home the afternoon in the office. I spent the night Boiling molasses. I 
made 55 gallons of the vary best surrup. It took 5 1/4 gallons of Juice to make one of surrup. The 
eastern mail came in but little News of any kind. 

12th I spent most of the day at home the evening in the office. Elder Wheelock Called at the 
office a short time. Said Judge Eckles would call to see him to morrow. President Young Called 
into the office a short time. Spoke of his visit up City Creek Canyon yesterday. He went up 
yesterday spent the night returned to day. Had a plesant time. 

A young man had made a discovery of a New Motive power by which one man Could increase 
the power to 200 men. He is in paris & upon experimet it had proved to be successful. It was 
Creating great sensation in France. President Young thought it [would?] not prove true. 

13th I went into the big field. Found 15 Head of Cattle had spent the night in my Com field. Had 
Nearly destroyed 40 shock of Corn. I drove them into the Stray pen. The damage was prised at 
$33. 1 spent the evening in the office. 

14th I spent the day in the Endowment House. I anointed 14 men. Their was about 35 persons 
had their endowment. Two were Cripples with the Rheumatism. We had to Carry them through 
the House in a Chair. 

At a Quarter past 3 oclok I went to the Historians office & found President Young in the office 
Conversing with G.A.S upon the History & foundation of the modern Governments of Europe. 
President Young said He had been informed that Col Forney & General Stambaugh wished that 
the probate Court at Washington Co would take up the Mountain Meadow massacree and it was 
thought that Gov Cumings was in favor of the same. 

15th I spent most of the day in the Endowment House. We gave endowments to some 20 persons. 
I Called at the H. office & found President Young was in Conversing with G.A.S. I paid my 
Territorial & County tax amounting to $32.40. 1 met with the Quorum of the Twelve for our 
prayer Circle. A. Lyman Prayed. W. Woodruff was mouth. 

16th Sunday We had a rainy night. I met with my Quorum in the morning but we did not dress or 
pray. I attended meeting in the morning. G. B. Wallace preached in the morning. I did not attend 
in the afternoon. Brother Kimball & Wells preached. I attended the meeting at the 14 ward school 


Page249 




house. 


Went home and had a severe attack of the inflamatory Rheumatism & Cramp in the stomach. I 
suffered immensly for 3 hours with hot mint tea & hot water. I got relief. We had a vary hard 
frost last night. 

17th I arose at 10 oclok. Was vary poorly. I walked to the Historians office & spent a short time. 

I received a letter from G.A.S in Deseret Alphabet. Infonned me there would be a Council with 
the Presidency Twelve, & the presidency of the Seventies in order to fill up those Quorums. 

A man was shot through the head on Saturday night. He was found dead in the morning. 

I met with the Twelve in the evening at the upper room of the Historians office. The evening was 
spent in speaking upon the subjects of the Twelve keeping Gentiles Boarders of Having them 
associateing with our families. Elders E. T. Benson & F. D. Richards Both were keeping 
Boarders. They both expressed there willingness to dismiss there Boarders as soon as they Could 
without temperal loss to themselves. We had a good meeting. I was poorly through the night. 

18th I was poorly through the day. I spent most of the day at home. I spent a part of the day at the 
office. 

19th T I Spent the day at home. I labored throug the day. I was not well. At about d[ark?] I 
was taken vary sick and I was sick all over. I had a vary sick night. I had a severe attack of the 
Lung Fever & Pleurisy in my left side. 

20 & 21 Mrs Woodruff nursed me, but it was evident I was to have a hard fit of sickness. 

22d Sisters Eliza R Snow & Zina Young was sent for and they Called to see me. I was exceding 
sick. Sister Zina staid through the day and left in the evening. Sister Eliza Snow spent the night 
with me. I had a tremendious raging Lung fever. Sister Snow gave me 20 drops of the strongest 
Hemlock oil. It went through my whole system. It had a great tendency to Check my fevers. 

23d Sunday Sister Eliza Spent the day with me. A most distressing Cough siezed me which 
seemed to rend my left Lung in peaces. Whenever the Caugh siezed me it was as sudden as 
though I was Struck with a thunderbolt and at evry Cough it seemed as though a sword pierced 
through my body. It seemed as though I must perish. 

24th I was still in great distress. Presidents H C. Kimball D. H. Wells & F. D. Richards & 

Samuel Richards Called and administered to me. H. C. Kimball was mouth. He promised me that 
I should live. In the afternoon President Brigham Young & Lorenzo Young Called to see me. 
President Young spoke about my hard labor, doing to much. Did not think I would ever Stop 
hard work unless I was shut up. I was vary sick and in great distress. President Young laid hands 
upon me and again promised me that I should be delivered and live, but it would be through 
Suffering. 


Page250 




He recommended me to send for Dr Sprague to Doctor me. I done so & He came the same night. 
He doctored me with roots & herbs and Nursed me vary wisely. I took a good deal of the tincture 
of Lobelia. 

John L. Smith & R. Bently Called to wait upon me. I could not lie in Bed while Coughing but 
had to be lifted into a Chair which was a large Arm Chair. It was much labour to take Care of me 
for I had to be lifted moved & turned often as I was in great Distress both night & day. I suffered 
with my left Lung and side immensly. 

25 I grew more weak and distressed. Many Called to see me and enquire after me. Many thought 
I would die, and all outward appearances favored it. 

26 This was an awful day and night to me. We had * a raging wind through the night, and a 
raging Struggle through my tabernacle between life and death. My desease pain & suffering had 
nearly blown out the lamp of life. My nose, mouth & lips was black with malignant sores caused 
by my desease and I hardly [had] strength left sufficient to endure my sufferings. It was one of 
the longest and most bitter nights of my life. Not ownly the pain and misery of my Cough Lungs 
and Side, But all the Horrible imaginations that the Devil or disease Could invent was heaped 
upon my feble spirit which was fluttering between life and death and struggling for the mastery 
to remain in the tabernacle. These were sufferings which remained during that long stonny night, 
Sufferings which no pen can describe or tongue can tell. It was not any fear of death, but a 
visitation of the most damnable Vampyres to torment both body and spirit that Could be 
Congured up either real or imaginary. Mrs Woodruff and others was with me & also Brother 
Squares set up with me most of the night. At last day light appeared. 

Thursday 27 Oct 1859 This day was like the previous night. It was the turning point of my fever. 
In the morning I was under the impression I should die. Still the way did not seem Clear for me 
to die. Yet I did not see how I Could live as I did not seem to have strength, power, or breath 
sufficient to breath much longer. 

My family Came around me to see me die. I gave each of them a word of Council and instruction 
But could say but little. I sent for Wilford who was in the field. He Came. I said a few words to 
him. Among other things I exhorted him strongly to always treat all dumb animals in his Charge 
kindly. He said he would try to. 

John L Smith was with me in the morning. I gave him a word of Council Concerning my History 
& Journals in case I should die. I also Conversed with J C. Little the sexton and A. O. Smoot the 
mayor, Concerning the place of my burial, and my family burial ground. J. C. Little said if I died 
He would bury me according to my request but said I should not die at Present. I named these 
things to the Brethren in Consequence of all outward appearances Showed more that I would die 
than live. 

Soon Dr Sprague Came in. He saw my low situation. Still he gave me such things as he thought I 


Page25 1 




Could bear. Towards evening I began to revive a little. It was evident it was the turning point of 
my fever. I spent the night more Comfortable than the past night. 

28 I was sum better to day but vary feeble. Dr Sprague visited me daily. Presidents H. C. Kimball 
& D. H. Wells Called to again administer to me. D. H. Wells was mouth. He said I should live 
and not die. I told him I should hold on to his words. 

29th I was some Easier to day and gained a little strength. 

30th Brother A. O. Smoot was spending Considerable time with me. Judge Eckles has issued a 
warrant against him & put it into the hands of the Sheriff Peter R Dodson to bring him to Camp 
Floyd which was a vexation warrant without any Just Cause or provocation. So he spent his time 
with me to avoid being taken. He assisted in taking Care of me. I still had to be lifted and turned 
in bed as I had no strength to turn myself. 

3 1st I began to mend a little. My lips and mouth are still Covered with sores Caused by my 
disease. 


November 

Nov 1st I am still vary feeble and weak yet I am mending slowly. 

Nov 2d I was attacked in my right lung with severe pain and Caugh which somewhat alarmed 
me. I had to lie upon my back or sit in a Chair as I Could not lie upon either side. Up to this time 
my right lung had been sound. This attack did not last me ownly about 2 days before the Caugh 
left me & soon the soreness also. 

3, 4, & 5 I Continued to mend slowley. I began to have a little appetite. Nearly all the food I had 
taken during my sickness was roasted sour Apples and a little bread Coffee. 

6th Sunday Bishop Hoagland Called upon me and several subjects was spoken upon. I was 
enabled to sit up and Eat some but talking hurt my lungs. Dr Bemhisel Called almost daily and 
advised me not to talk as it would injure my lungs. 

7, 8 & 9 I Continued to gain daily. My appetite increased untill I felt quite hungry & had to use 
wisdom in my apetite & diet. 

10th I walked a little to day with a Cane for the first time during my sickness. 

1 1th I walked into the adjoining room to day, and down into the kitchen and felt vary thankful to 
again have the privilege of walking upon my feet without pain after suffering so much. 

121 walked about the House to day. I have a good appetite and have to guard against over eating. 

13 Sunday I walked out the door to day. Was happy to take the fresh air. 

14th Monday Our men Commenced threshing today Moroni went to Fort Harriman. Took 


Page252 




Delight & 6 sheep. I walked out of doors a good deal to day. I took some Cold & felt sore at 
night. 

15 The men are still threshing. Brother Mulfords son Came after his Father to day. His Father 
had been on the road home 2 days. Moroni returned to day. Brought home our hog dressed. He 
went down into the field with the team to bring home a load of wheat. It rained vary hard through 
most of the night. 

161 spent most of the day reading the Deseret News & valley tan. 

171 walked about Considerable to day. It is Cloudy & looks like a storm. The men are drawing 
Corn. 

1 8th I eat some fat meat for dinner & it made me vary sick. I vomited much & purged & had a 
sick night. 

191 am better to day. The men got through threshing. F. D. Richards & Erastus Snow Called to 
see me in the evening. 

20 Sunday I spent the day quietly in the House reading the Book of Ezekiel & Isaiah. Brother 
Hunter Called to see me in the evening. 

21st We have snow upon the ground this morning. Wilford and Moroni spent the day delivering 
my tithing. I paid 48 1/2 gallons Molasses 5 Bushels Oats, 1 1/2 Barley, 1 Hungarian grass seed, 

5 of Beets, 2 Carrotts, 15 Heads Cabbage 22 doz Apples or 1 Bushel For myself And 40 squashes 
2 1/2 Bushels Corn & 4 of potatoes for John Stocking. 

It is a vary sloppy day. Brother Cole has got a relaps & inflamation in the Bowels under the Care 
of Dr Richardson who is feeding Calomel Blistering &c and has but little hopes of his life. I 
being satisfied that He would soon die if He Continued to follow his directions I Counciled him 
to lay aside his Calomel & take fine powdered Charcoal mixed with Starch & take it as 
in[jec?]tions & to drink some of it. He followed my directions & began to recover. 

22d I spent the day in writing Notes. We set up our new stove. Got a New pipe. 

23d Robert, Wilford & Moroni started with 3 teams For Fort Harriman to get out lumber. The 
family packed up in Boxes with Chaff all the winter Apples we had left. I had 7 Hands Danish 
Brethren Shucking Com for evry 10th Bushel. The Boys and Father was diging Beets in the mud. 
I Bought an Ox of Brother Cole. Paid $40 for him. Sent him to Fort Harriman. 

24 Stormy weather. I spent the day mostly in the House. 

25 Still Stormy and Bad Weather. I spent the day in the House. 

26 Vary heavy weather. Fogy & damp air. I spent the day in the House except visiting the 
grainery. 


Page253 




27th It is still heavy weather. I spent the day in the house. 

28 * For the first time since I have been sick I went abroad. I Called at the Deserett & 
Mountaineer office and stoped my advertisements in both papers. I then Called upon President B 
Young. He asked me what news I had from the spirit world. I told him I had none. 

Elder Hyde & Benson had Just returned from their mission to Cash valley which they organized 
into a stake of Zion and preached in all the Northern Settlements. They gave a report of their 
mission to President Young. 

We then went to the Historians office. This was the first time I had been in the office since I was 
taken sick. I found Broth G. A. Smith still lame with his sprained ancle which was sprained more 
than 3 months ago and he has had it laid up in a Chair ever since. After spending a short time 
with the Brethren in the office I returned home. 

29 It is still vary Heavy weather. I walked out into East Temple Street. The Dains finished 
husking my Com. I had 112 bushels of Shelled Com. One half of my Corn was destroyed in my 
Field by unmly Cattle after it was shocked up. I had half of a Beef sent me to day from the tithing 
office. 

30th I spent the day at home. 


December 

Dec 1st & 2d I spent the time mostly at home. 

3d T T I went to the Historians office and also I went to Presidents Young office. He was 
Conversing with J M Bernhisel & E. R. Young Concerning Govermental affairs. President 
Young said that He heard that General Black told Presidet Buchannan that if He permitted the 
Judges in Utah or in any other portion of the United States to use the military to the injury of the 
Citizens he would resign his office as a member of the Cabinet. 

"It has been said that Buchanan was in his dotage & feeble in mind which was the Cause of his 
Course towards Utah & many other acts of his Administration but this is not the Case. He is just 
as much of a man now as he ever was in his life and it was the first time He ever was in a 
situation to fully Carry out the evil designs of his heart, and his acts are Carrying out his 
principles. 

E R Young said that the Judges in this Territory would not have taken the course they did if they 
had not Believed the Presidet would have sustained them in it. President Young He did not think 
they would do much more But they may try to get up a fuss and do sumthing. Other remarks were 
made. 

Wilford & Moroni Came home to night. 


Page254 




4th Sunday We have had a raging snow Storm through the night. It is vary Cold to day. Most of 
the people keep indoors to day. Snow fell in the City some 8 inches. 

5th An exceding Cold day. I spent the day in the Historians office. It was a Bitter Cold night. I 
wrote 5 letters to } } L. Johnson, Benyon, K[else?], Scholes & S D Woodruff. 

6th The Thermomitur stood this morning at 22 degrees Below Zero. G. A. Smith had a Calf 
freeze to death in the pen. Wilford & Moroni started this morning for Fort Harriman with a load 
of Hay & double Horse team. 

I spent the day in the office reading the History of Zions Camp. 

Last night was the Coldest night ever known in this valley since we have inherit this land. 
President Youngs Thermometer made 21 degrees Below zero & W. W. Phelps 22 degrees. I 
spent the evening at Presidents Youngs. In speaking of the weather he said that last night was the 
Coldest night by 5 degrees we ever experienced in this City. Robert arived home this evening. 

7th The weather is more mild to day. I spent the day in the office Reading History. 

President Young Called into the office and spent about an hour with us. I spoke to President 
Young about our getting ? out the History of Joseph striped of all of its appendages and to be 
published as the plain History of Joseph Smith. He said let it rest at present. We shall not do any 
thing about it now. 

President Young said in speaking of the Temple I herd a man say to day we would go back to 
Jackson County in 7 years. I said Amen but if we go back in that time we shall have to hasten to 
get our temple Built. I think we must Commence it next spring, uncuver the foundation. But I 
shall have to take up one tier of rock all over the foundation, For Brother Raleigh appears as 
though he wished to destroy that Temple. He would not take Brother Angels levil which He had 
got up with great Care and he would not trust to his own Judgment but got Brother Fox to help 
him get the levil. But Raleigh made one himself and he made the foundation not levil & in order 
to levil up the last tier he put under small stones which would all Cr[umble?] beneath the 
building and one quarter of an inch setling of that Building would Crack it from top to Bottom. I 
have had much trouble with masons upon this subject, and it is strange to see this spirit manifest 
among our leading masons. 

I should be glad to see the day when all men who profess to be saints will impart what 
knowledge they possess to each other. I do not know as Brother Raliegh realizes what He is 
doing but it appears to me that He is trying to destroy the Architecture of that Building. 

A. Lyman & C C Rich arived home this evening & Called upon the Presidet & gave an account 
of their mission South. 

8 Robert Left for Fort Harriman. I spent the day in the office. President Young Called into the 


Page255 




office. Met with G.A.S in the Code Comission Room. I spent the evening at home. 

9th I went into the office in the morning. G A. Smith related a Circumstance of a Mr Woodson 
who has got possession of the Land upon which the Temple Block stands in Jackson Co 
Missouri. In 1857 Ferrymore Little was in Jackson Co & Mr Woodson said to him I have heard 
that your people expected to return to this Country and Build a Temple on the Temple Block on 
my farm. Brother Little Answered to be sure they do. Woodson said you are a Hell of a set. 

G.A.S. also said He got a Statement from Lewis Bidemon that the people of the towns of 
Warsaw Carthage p[untoosee?] & Appanoose made up a subscription of $500 & paid it to Joseph 
Agnoe for Burning the Temple and He went & burnt it for that sum of money. 

I spent the day in the office filing High Council Records. 

10th I spent the day in the office filing High Council Record. 

I I Sunday I spent the day at home. It was a Cold day. Lorenzo Snow spent the night with us. 

Dec 12 A Cold morning. The Legislature of Utah met this morning. Brother Bentley and I drew 
Brother G. A. Smith to the Legislative Council at the Social Hall on a hand sled He being still 
vary lame with his sprained Ancle. I Staid in the Council untill it was organized & then returned 
to the office. 

I spent the day in the office. I visited J. L. Smith & administered to him with Lorenzo Young. 

13th I spent the day in the office on H Council minutes. I called into President Youngs office in 
the evening. Did not see him. I spent 2 hours in Historians office, & one hour in Judge Smith 
office. The Eastern Mail arived. We obtained a few papers but not Much News. 

14th The sunshine again this morning upon our City which has been hid for weeks by Clouds & 
fog. I spent the day in the office. I got one letter from Ilus F Carter. I wrote [] } to Ilus F Carter. I 
spent the day in the office. I spent the evening at home. 

15th I spent the day in the office examining Corresponding letters. 

I called upon President Young in the evening. The subject was brought up of Cold weather and 
freezeing. He said on the Cold Friday in 1814 He Choped timber all day for Browse. He froze his 
feet vary bad. He put them in Cold water but He had always been troubled with the Chill Blains 
untill 1835. He was at Sister Browers in Boston. He there went & stood with his bare feet upon 
the stone hearth whare there was a fire and poured vinegar upon his feet which boiled untill his 
feet was almost boiled. This Cured the Chill Blains and he never was troubled with it since. We 
were informed that a young man froze to death in Cash valley on Monday. 

16th I spent the day in the office. In the evening Presidents Young & Wells with many others met 
in the Historians office to read & discuss the laws got up by the Code Commission. At the Close 
of the reading President Young made some remarks upon governmental affairs. He said their 


Page256 




would be an exertion made to take away our Charter or Organic act. The vary next best thing to 
our becoming a state would be for them to take away our Charter. Then we would know who 
would govern this Country. It would not be long before we would have an Election. 

17th I spent the fore part of the day in the office Hearing the Code read. I was quite unwell. I 
spent the afternoon at home. I met with the Quorum of the Twelve in the evening at the upper 
room Historian office. A. Lyman Prayed. John Taylor was mouth. At the Close of Prayers we met 
in the Historians office. Heard letters read & discussion. 

Dec 18 Sunday I was quite unwell. I spent the day at home. Robert returned home in the evening. 
President Young spoke in the Tabernacle vary well and to the edifycation of the people. Was 
followed by John Taylor. A Lyman spoke well at night in the 14 ward followed by John Taylor. 

19th President Young sent me a Black walnut tree some 7 years old. I had it set out this morning. 
I spent the day in the office. 

20 I spent the day in the office reading Historical Letters. 

21st I Had 6 Hogs Butchered to day. 

I Called at President Youngs in the evening. The subject was discussed concerning the Code of 
civel proccess got up by the Code Commission. It was voted down by the Legislative assembly. 
The Presidency did not wish it to pass. 

President Young said a Letter was received by Musser by the last Mail from Brother Gibson who 
was on his mission to England saying while travelling on a rail road they had a Collission with 
another train and mashed up the engine and care that he was in & yet not a soul was hurt. As they 
walked out of the ruins one man said there must be some man of God on that Care by which they 
were saved. Brother Gibson remarked it was in fulfillment of prophecy for Brigham Young said 
when He Blessed me that I should go in safety by rail road & steemboat and this is in fulfillment 
of his Blessing. 

The question was asked Presidet Young if he did not think the Nations were inspired to go North 
as Columbus was to find this Continent. President Young said they have had vary bad luck at it. 
No they are not inspired ownly by there own desire to open a North west passage to China. Some 
think it is to open the way for the 10 tribes but it is not so. The Nations will have Nothing to do 
with preparing the way for there return. But when the time has Come for there return the Lord 
will do the work. They are on a portion of Earth seperated from this globe in the North which 
Cannot be seen from this Earth and when the time Comes the Lord will unite their land with ours 
& prepare the way for there return. 

President Young said there was an exertion made to separate the union without war but it Cannot 
be done. The union Cannot hold together but a few years. It must soon part. The southern people 
have more fears of there own servants than anybody els. Many other remarks were made. 


Page257 




22d I killed a Beef to day or had one killed. I spent the day in the office. 

23d I spent the day in the office. General Samuel Stambaugh visited us for an hour. We had a 
plesant visit with him. He manifested a good spirit. He Complained of the post Master in this 
town for not getting his paper. He wished us to give him all information we could upon the 
improvement of facilities of this Territory. He said he would not use it for our disadvantage. He 
said he had [often/after?] passed through Nauvoo. ft was a beautiful situation and He would not 
give Hancock County for this whole Teritory. He spoke of the Cole mine in Echo Canyon. He 
said if he owned one half of that mine he would sell it [in] less than one year for $100,000. He 
said the Soldiers ought to be imployed in making the roads through these Canyon. He spoke upon 
many other subjects. 

During the evening President Young spoke upon the subjet of fencing. A Carrington advocated 
the principle of doing away with fencing entirely. President Young thought it would not do 
Entirely at present. He also said he thought we had better extend our settlements Northward. 

1 met with the Board of the D. A. M. society. Bishop Wm. Cro[sby?] mad a report of the 
Southern Cotton growing Country. He made the most favorable report of Washington Co & the 
Riovergin and Santa Clara region that we have ever herd from that region. He represented that 
Country as being good for Cotton, sugar Cane, wheat, fruit, dy stuffs & grazing Country and all 
kinds of grain. George Day & Pri[..] Coleman made Four tons of cheese the past season with 
their own hands. 

24 I spent the day in the office and the evening at home. 

25 Sunday and Christmas I attended meeting for the first time since I was sick at the Tabernacle. 
A. Lyman Preached a good moral discourse. I dismissed the meeting. I spent the afternoon & 
evening at home. 

At about 1 oclok there was a firacus in Main Street Between Wm. Hickman & Lot Huntington. 
They had T 0 some difficulty about the division of some money and agreed to meet to day at 1 
oclok to settle it. And after they met the difficulty was renewed & William Hickman shot 
Huntington. Then Huntington returned the fire. The ball struck Hickmans watch glanced down 
the groin broke a peace from his thigh bone & broke the ball to peaces. 

Hickman was surrounded with several friends & they all Chased Huntington and shot some 30 
shots at him. They followed him to George Grants House. Huntington run into the House & the 
rest did not go in. Hickmans Friends gathered around him. Hickman soon grew pale and said He 
would not give 3 cents for his life. They took him in a slay to But[cher?] House. Many were 
excited and run to and fro. Surgeons were sent for and they thought it doubtful about Hicksans 
Living. 

26th I spent the day in the office and the evening at home. I heard that Hickman was vary sick. 
We had a snow storm during the night. 


Page258 




27th I spent most of the day in the office looking over Corresponding letters. In Company with 
Lorenzo Snow I spent the evening at Brother Houtz. 

28th Robert, Wilford & Moroni left this morning for Fort Harriman with my Flock of sheep. The 
Eastern mail arived last night. I spent an hour in the office looking over the news. Mr John 
Brown was Hung in Charleston Jefferson Co Virginia, on the 2d inst. 

I attended the meeting of the seventies at the seventies Hall. Opened By singing & Prayer by 
Henry Harriman. The meeting was Addressed by Brother Hunt and Willis. Brother Hunt spoke of 
a speckled Bird visited him. I followed Brother Willis. The spirt [first] time I have spoken since I 
was sick. I spoke some 15 minutes. I was followed by President Joseph Young. 

Another meeting was held in the evening. 

I spent the evening at President Youngs with A. Lyman. Brother Carrington read a Letter to us 
From Capt Hooper who said "This union will be disolved within 18 month." He also read the 
message of the Govornor of Missippi whos recommendation to his state is that they Call a state 
Convention and Call upon all the Slave holding State to Form a Southern Union and seced from 
the North if their was a Republican President Elected in the United States. 

J. Ferguson reported that he was informed that He was way laid by a party who thought he spoke 
to Free upon some subjects. 

29th I spent most of the day in the office and the evening with the Twelve and others at Brother 
Gibs. Wilford Robert & Delight returned home. 

30th I spent the day in the office and I spent the evening at a party at Bellow's Hall got up by the 
14 ward. I attended with my Family. The evening & most of the night was spent in danceing. I 
did not dance. It was a plesant party. 

3 1 Dec 1859 This is the last day of the Year and we are approaching 1860, a year which has been 
looked for with much interest since I was a Boy. In my own mind I do not suppose that it will be 
much different From the years which will follow. We are standing in the midst of a Generation 
which is full of interesting Events. We are approaching Revolutions & Changes which will shake 
kingdoms, Thrones & Republics, from the [Earth?] to circumference and lay them in the dust and 
open the way for the Esstablishment of the kingdom of God and of more freedom and liberty 
than now Exists upon Earth. The signs of the times show that 1860 may be the Commencement 
of the desolution of the American Union and of Bloody European wars. But the Lord will guide 
the destiny of the world in such a manner that his will will be done and the Prophets Fulfilled. 

I spent the fore part of the day in the office reading & Conversation with G. A. Smith who gave 
an account of his hard work from a small boy and that it had injured him & he would not advise 
for young Boys to be worked to hard. 


Page259 




A Synopsis of my labours in 1859 


I Traveled One hundred & 85 miles 
I Attended Thirty five meetings 
I Preached Six Discourses 
I Attended Two general Conferences 
I Met with My Prayer Circle 
I Met with the Twelve Prayer Circle 
I spent Ten Days giving Endowments 
I Attended The Legislature 17 


185 Miles 
35 Meeting 
6 Discourses 
2 Conferences 

32 Times 

33 Times 
10 Days 
17 Days 


I Met Nine times with the D. A. M. Society 9 times 
I Administered to 10 who were sick 10 sick 

I Wrote Thirty Three Letters 33 Letters 

I received Ten Letters 10 Letters 

I Blessed Six Missionaries 

I Baptized & Confinned my Daughter 1 B & C 
I Married Three Couple 3 Married 

I spent most of the year In the Historians office. 

I passed through one of the Most severe fits of sickness of my life. 


From 1860 To 1865 6 years 36SNote(7) 
8 

January 1st 1860 
to 

October 22nd 1865 


{ ======================== = 

Wilford Woodruffs Journal for 1860 


} 


January 

Jan 1st 1860 Sunday I spent the day at home. H. C. Kimball Preach at the Tabernacle. 

2nd I spent the day in the office. President Kimball Called in the Historians office and talked 
over his Journey to England with the Twelve in 1840. Spoke of our sickness &c. There was A 
party at Bellows Hall 14th Ward. I Called a short time. 


Page260 




3d Mr A. B. Miller arived from the States in 20 days. He came at 2 oclock this morning. He Says 
the House of Congress Cannot organize and that politicks run so high that he was glad to leave 
the Country and Come to Salt Lake. He also was informed that Major & Russels herd of Cattle at 
Ruby valley were dying off that 1,700 Head was dead when the express left it had snowed 24 
days in succession. We received some papers to day by the Mail. 

4th I visited Lorenzo Snow who was sick at Brother Houtz and administered to him. I spent the 
day in the office and attended a party at the Historians office. 

5 I spent the day in the office. We had a snow Storm. I wrote f 3 Letters to Luther Scammons, 
Aphek & Andrew Woodruff and to the U.S. Patent office per Wm. Hooper. We had 2 inches 
snow. 

6th I spent the day in the office. We had a strong South wind which melted off the Snow and it 
rained some in the evening. 

I spent the evening with President Young. <He invited me to come and visit him on Monday.> 

He Conversed upon many subjects. He said it was the intent of our Enemies was to get our 
organic act repealed & Esstablish Marshal Law but he did not believe they would do it. He spoke 
of the coal bed on webber. Wished for a good road to it. 

7th I rode to Fort Harriman. Took Sarah & her Children also Wilford. I spent the night in the Fort 
in my own house which I had bought. 

8th Sunday I preached in Fort Harriman to the people during the day and evening. It snowed most 
of the day. The Cattle and Sheep had to get there living out on the range. I had 87 sheep. Moroni 
Herded them daily. 

9th I returned home with Wilford Having left Sarah to teach school. It snowed most of the way 
home & met us in the face. Distance 50 miles. 

I spent the afternoon and evening with President Young and his family with Mrs Woodruff & 
Phebe Brother & Sister Stenhouse Judge E. Smith and Fady & N. H. Felt and Fadies. We took a 
good Supper in the Edge of the evening we met in the setting room had singing and prayer. 
Brother Stenhouse was Mouth. President Youngs Family was present. A good spirit prevailed 
and such order I never saw in any Numerous Family in my life. His immediate Family Cannot be 
less than one hundred person. President Young Conversed upon the Subject of Slavery in the 
Territory and Concerning Cattle dying in Ruby valley And also upon his mission to England in 
1840 and some other subjects. We tarried till 8 oclock then returned home. 

In speaking of the unhealthy state of the Missippi & other lands President Young said if men 
Could live above the Earth they would not be so sick. He said if he was to build a House in that 
Country to live in again He would build it on arches so that air Could have a Free Circulation 
under it. He said He had herd of a house built in that way in New Orleans whare all were healthy 


Page261 




who lived in it. 


101 spent the day in the office and Evening at home. 

1 1 In Company with Bishop Hunter I Called upon President Young to enquire if he wished to 
Change any of the Names for the Board of D A & M Society. He said he did not wish to make 
any Change. 

I was here introduced to Capt Walter M Gibson of South Carolinia who had lectured in the 
Social Hall upon his travels in the Indian Archipeligo. In speaking of that Country he said the 
salubrity of that Country was so great that you pull any kind of herbage you can find and bind it 
on any tree so that it would stay and it would take root & grow. Said He I have seen fifty kinds of 
herbage grow upon one tree of Different kinds like the misseltoe. He spoke of several diferent 
kinds of fruit which he had No knowledge of before which were vary healthy. 

I spent the evening at home. The mail Came in this Evening. 

12 We obtained the Papers from the office this morning. I obtained the Dec Number of the 
American Agriculterist The New York semi weekly Tribune 2 Numbers. I Called upon Mr H F 
Morrell the post Master * and paid him 90 cts postage on My Papers. I paid for Genesse Farmer 
in 1859 also Gody Lady Book. I paid for a quarter for 1860 The semi weekly Tribune U.S. 

Journal & The American Agriculturist all paid to the first of April. 

Jan 13 1860 It is quite Cold winter weather. I spent the day in the office. 

14 A Cold morning but plesant sunshine. I spent the day in the office. I Met With the Twelve at 
Candlelight For Prayer. F. D. Richards Prayed & John Taylor was Mouth. We Administered to 
G. A. Smith. 

15 Sunday I met with my Quorum. J. C. Little Prayed. R Bentley was Mouth. I Attended Meeting 
at the Tabernacle. J Taylor Preached. 

16 A Shower of Frost. All trees Covered with Frost. I spent the day in the office. I had a small 
party at My house through the evening. Capt Walter Murray Gibson and his Daughter Solulah ? 
Lucy Gibson were both present. They both were Baptized by H. C. Kimball Jan 16th 1860 at 7.30 
PM. and Confirmed members of the C. J. C. L. D. Saints under the Hands of the Presidency of 
the Church President Young being mouth. There was also at My House A. O. Smoot & wife, 
Thomas B. H. Stenhouse & wife Lorenzo Snow & wife & Brother Houtz & wife. 

Capt Gibson Had been a great traveller through the Indies Archipeligo & Mexico. He entertained 
us through the Evening in giving sketches of his travels the Customs, Habits & Religion of the 
People, also the productions, Fruits, Animals, Birds, & reptiles of the thousands of Island and 
Continent which he had visited. 

Many of those Hands contained hundreds of new kinds of Fruit. The ownly Food they raise by 


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Cultivation is rice & sweet potatoes. All other food groes spontaneous. When a man lands upon 
one of those Islands he Finds his food before him upon the trees. Evry one of those Islands 
Contain a large supply of Cocanut & Bannana. There is but one of the Island that is dangerous in 
Consequence of wild Beast and that Hand loose about 3 men in 2 days upon an Everage by the 
Tiger alone. There is but one Island that He visited which Contained dangerous Reptiles. Georgia 
& the Southern States Contained a thousand times more Dangerous serpents than the Indies & 
Islands. 

They manufactur a vary fine silk. Cotton is also raised & produced from the Cotton tree. Nearly 
all kinds of Fruits are ripe all the year round Containing ripe & green fruit, Blossom, & buds 
upon the trees at the same time. He saw vary large forest trees some 70 feet in Circumference. 
There was an aromatic Fragrance in the land breeze through the whole year which was a vary 
peculiar & healthy [ ]. He was much delighted with his travels in India. 

He has expended some Seventy Thousand Dollars in his Travels. He fitted up a fine ship which 
Cost $7,000 in the Deceration of his state room. 

He was Arested by the Dutch his ship siezed, and He was imprisioned for about one year & a half 
sentenced to death his ship sold all without any Just Cause or provicatlon. He escaped from 
Prision through the help of some Malays. 

While in Prision He had a Dream which showed him his Escape, his return to the United States, 
his visit to Utah & Dreamed that some saints returned with him to the Malays Islands, And He is 
now Here & has Embraced the Gospel. 

He said he went through Mexico in 1847 & 8, And when the U.S. Government sent an armey to 
Utah to war with the Mormons He laboured vary diligently to get the Administration to send 
Peace Commissioners to Utah. At first He Could make no impression upon members of Congress 
or the President. At last they Consented to the proposition. He was one of the first men named 
and finally there were some dozen Applicants and at last as the president wished to make as 
much out of office as he Could sent Power From kentucky & MCCullock of Texas two of the 
worst men that was offered. Capt Gibson Conversed upon several other subjets. 

The Express Came in & Brother Stenhouse got sum papers & Red his Correspondence in the 
Herrald. Brother Giles the Blind man called in & Played upon his Harp for two hours. I gave him 
$2 for his music. 

17 We got papers to 22d Dec From St Louis giving an Account of the Hanging of the four men at 
Charlestown Va. 2 got out the night before. Were retaken & hung. The house of Congress was 
not Organized at the 21 Dec. 

I spent the day in the office Journalizing. I spent the evening at Brother J Horns. Several of the 
Twelve were present O. Pratt J. Taylor F D. Richards L. Snow & W Woodruff & A. O. Smoot 
Mayor. The evening was spent in speeches & songs. We went home about Midnight. 


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18th I spent the day in the office. I met with the Board of Directors of the D. A & M. Society till 
10 oclok. I was Appointed in Connexion with Lorenzo Young & President Edward Hunter to 
meet with the Joint Assembly of the Legislature to urge the members to assist us to form Branch 
Societies throughout the Territory. 

19 Jan 1860 } I wrote 2 letters to D. H. Wells & J. Taylor Presidet of the Council & Speaker of 
the House of Representatives. 1 spent a short time in the Council. 

They Appointed this Evening at Candlelight to meet in joint Session For the purpose of hearing 
addresses From the President & Board of Directors upon the subject of extending the 
Agricultural & Manufacturing interest throughout the Territory. 

President Hunter & W. C. Stanes & Lorenzo Young met with me at the H.O. Office to make 
arangements for the Meeting. 

1 met with the Joint Session of the Legislature with Bishop Hunter Lorenzo Young & Wm. C 
Stanes. President Wells called the House to order, and presented the object of the meeting. 
Bishop Hunter arose and made a few remarks. 

1 was then presented to the Assembly and addressed them at some length upon the subject of the 
agricultural & Manufacturing interest of the Territory. 1 recommended the Esstablishing 
Branches in Evry County through the Territory & Hold County Fairs for the Benefit of the whole 
people and that they Join the State Fair, and that all unite in sending agents to the states to buy 
good sheep, Cattle, Horses swine or other stock also good Cotton seed & Cotton Ginnes and any 
Machinery we want and other remarks was made. 

1 was then Followed by Forenzo Young & Wm. C Stanes & Bishop Hunter. Then remarks were 
made by Councellor Harrington & A. P. Rockwood. President Wells than made some good 
remarks and received us vary kindly and Resolved to sustained us & to have the minutes printed 
in the D News & Mountaineer & in tomorrows minutes. 

20 Vary Cold and Frosty. 1 went to the office in the morning. 1 there learned that Joseph Rhodes 
was killed by Jason Luce last evening in Butchers House whare William Hickman lay. Rhodes 
Came to the House and said he wanted to see Hickman. Luce said he could not. Rhodes swore he 
would or die on the spot and drew two pistols one Cocked in Each hand and presented them at 
Fuce. Luce drew his knife and sprung at Rhodes and struck him in the Right Breast & the knife 
went through his body. Ormas Bates sprung at the same time and Caught hold of Each pistol and 
turned the muzzles up. Luce Continued to thrust the knife into Rhodes and he soon fell and as he 
began to Fall He snaped the both pistols but the hammer struck Bates Hand and did not go off. 
Fuce Continued to stab him untill he had Eleven gashes through his body. 

1 went down to see the Corps, ft had been washed and laid on a Board Naked. 1 never saw a Body 
so Cut up. The poliece took the body From Hickman to the City Hall whare 1 saw the Body. Luce 
gave himself up to the Poliece. 


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I spent the day in the office. Luce had his trial in the evening and was acquited upon the plea of 
self Defense. 

21st I spent the day in the office. I spent the evening at A. O. Smoot with a party. O. Pratt J. 
Taylor & W. Woodruff of the Twelve Hon J. M. Bemhisel & many others were present. I paid M 
Cannon $1 For line of Battles[nip?]. 

22d Sunday I spent most of the fore part of the day at home. 

I spent the afternoon with Presidents Young & Kimball & Lorenzo Young. Capt. Gibsons travels 
was a subject of Conversation. The Island were spoken of. He visited 40 of the group. President 
Young showed us on the map whare the Apostles Preached the country through which they 
travelled and probably it Continued to the Archipeligo and that the Malays had the gospel and 
that the Israelitish traditions were among them. 

President Young said that all the world would have been warned long ago in our day if all the 
world had been as faithful in warning his Neighbor as He & many of the Elders of this Church. 
When going to Zion in 1834 Joseph reproved the Camp while Standing upon a waggon wheel. I 
said I had done the best I Could & Could not Better it if I was to try it again. H. C. Kimball said 
the same. They said they had been in the Church nearly half of his life. (I WW have been in the 
Church more than half of my life.) 

I remarked that it was an interesting time to live to see the fulfillment of the [ ]. President 

Young said it was an inte [resting?] time. H. C Kimball said we should see it Just as well if Dead 
as if alive. 

President Young said while we are in the flesh, we have to Contend against evil spirits and 
Devils in a way which will be hid from us in the Spirit World. 

Brother Kimball said in speaking of our Prayer Circle I never saw T. D. Brown in that Circle but 
what I felt sorry to see him there. President Young said He would never have been there If you 
had not Recommended him for I had not Confidence enough in him. He l[eack?]ed & so did 
Wm. W Phelps & others. What is spoken in a prayer Circle should never be Named out of the 
Circle not [to] a wife or any body Els. If there is any thing to be said I will say it. I Could preach 
all about the Endowments in Public and the world know Nothing about it. I Could preach all 
about Masonry & None but a mason know any thing about it. And the mane part of Masonry is to 
keep a secret. 

I attended the 14 ward evening Meeting. S. M. Blair first spoke of his sickness. Acknowledged 
the hand of God in his recovery. Was followed by Lorenzo Young also Elder O. Pratt spoke for 1 
1/4 hour. There was a full house. 

23d It is thawing to day. I spent the day in the office. A man by the name of Cub Johnson or is so 
Called Came into the office with S. M. Blair. He wished to see President Young. Br Blair Said 


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President Young sent word to that Party viz Lot Buntington & Party that he wished them to lay 
down their arm repent of their Sins and Become good men & this Johnson was willing to do it & 
wished to see the President about it. But He did not see him. 

We had an evening school in the office. J. V. Long gave us a lecture upon Wells grammar and 
Phonography. 

24 I setteled my tithing with Bishop Hoagland for 1859 which amounted to $295.32 cts. I Paid 
$253.32 & the remainder $42 I Paid in Molasses through the office. 

The Eastern Mail Came in and we obtained some Papers and the Presidents Message. President 
Young & Carrington Called upon us at the Office a Short time. Read one letter from J. Vancott 
who had arived at Copenhagen and letters from other Brethren. I received A Genesee Farmer of 
Jan 1860 and one Tribune. 

I preached to the 27th Quorum of Seventies at Thomas Bullock. I herd four gun shots at 1 1 oclok 
at night. 

25th I spent the day in the office also the evening on a lesson in phonography. 

26 I spent the forenoon at home settleing accounts and the afternoon in the office. I attended the 
D. A & M. Society. I was apointed to Correspond with the Sheep raisers in the United States. 

27th } I wrote 3 Letters to J. C. Taylor of Holinder Monmouth Co N. J and Josiah Wm. Ware 
Barryville Clark Co. Va. Concerning Sheep. I spent the day in the office reading letters. I wrote 1 
Letter to Edwin Whiting of Sanpete County. 

I met at Presidents Youngs for A Meeting whare C C Rich gave an Account of the Death of John 
King who was killed by riding down the mountain on a snow Slide on the 25th Jan 27 1860. Be 
would be 26 years old 29 Jan 1860. He was bom in Australia. He was Found with his face on the 
ground & feet doubled back over his head. 

Minutes of A Meeting of the Presidency Twelve Presidents of Seventies and others assembled in 
President Youngs Council Room at 6 oclok. 


There were Present President Young President Kimball (D H Wells sick) All of the Twelve 
except A. Lyman & G. A. Smith who was sick. The Presidency of the Seventies Bishop Hunter & 
many others. A Hymn was sung O Happy Souls who Pray. Prayer By O Hyde. 

President Young stated the object of the Meeting was to Convers upon Doctrinal Points to see if 
we see alike & think alike. 1 Pray that we may have the spirit of God to rest upon us that our 
minds may be upon the subject & that we may speak by the Holy spirit. 

He then Called upon A Carrington to read a sermon. He read it before the Company a peace 


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prepared for the press written by Orson Pratt upon the Godhead. He Claimed that it was the 
atributes of God that He worshiped and not the person & that He worshiped those Atributes 
whether he found them in God, Jesus Christ Adam, Moses, The Apostles Joseph, Brigham or in 
any body Els. After the document was read President Young then Called upon the Twelve to 
express their feelings upon the subject. He called upon O Hyde to speak & he called upon J 
Taylor to speak. He spoke a short time. No one knew at the time (except the President & 
Carrington) who was the author of the document read. 

Brother Taylor said he did not see it in that light. He worshiped a personage and not the 
Atributes. He thought God was Located and Could not worship the Atributes in any body. 

President Young then Called a vote of the assembly and said if you understand this to be a 
Correct doctrin as here written I wish you [to] manifest it by saying yes. No one spoke. 

President Young then said do I worship Atributes or the Dispencer of those atributes? I worship 
the Dispencer of those atributes and Not the Atributes. This is O Pratts Sermon prepared for the 
Press. I do not want to have it published if it is not right. Brother Orson Worships the Atributes 
of God but not God. I worship not the Atributes but that God who holds and dispenses. If 
Eternity was full of atributes and No one to dispens them they would not be worth a feather. 

Suppose an Angels comes to us to Night with a message From God and he tels the angels not to 
make himself known. He Comes to us with a message and gives a New Law and a penalty for not 
obeying. You may ask who are you? He may not tell you who he is or he may say God sent me. 
You may Say whare is that God who sent you? I dont know or Care any thing about you or what 
you say. He might say to you I am a god to you. Moses Said to Israel I am a God to you. Joseph 
Said to us I am a God to you. This was true and upon the same principles I am a God to this 
people & so is any man who is appointed to lead Israel or the Kingdom of God. If the people 
reject him they reject the one who sent him. But we will let that drop, and turn to the other 
subject. 

Now suppose we were all to receive a fullness of the Atributes of God and According to Orson 
Pratts Theory The Lord had a fulness and He Could not advance but we Could advance till we 
were Equal to him. Than if we worshiped the Atributes instead of God we would soon worship 
ourselves as soon as we had a fulness of those atributes. Then you Cannot worship any thing 
beyound yourself. You would then worship the atributes & not the dispenser of those atributes. 
"This is fals doctrin." 

God did not say worship Moses because he was a God to the people. You may say to your wife 
or son do so & so. They will say I will not but I will go to a greater man. I will go to Brigham 
Young. You might say I am your Counciller Dictator or your God. Either would be Correct. And 
they should obey your Just & righteous Command. Yet they should not worship you for this 
would be sin. 

Orson Pratt has differed from me in many things, But this is a great principle & I do not wish to 


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say you shall do so and so. I do not know of a man who has a mathamatical turn of mind but 
what goes to Far. The trouble between Orson Pratt & me is I do not know Enough & he knows to 
much. I do not know evry thing. Their is a mystery Concerning the God I worship which mystery 
will be removed when I Come to a full knowledge of God. 

One of the greatest things Joseph Smith ever did was to Familiarize Heaven & Earth and Cause 
them to shake hand together and become Familiar Together. This was a great principle. It is 
simple yet true. When I met the God I worship I expect to [meet a] personage with whom I have 
been acquainted upon the same principle that I would to meet with my Earthly Father after going 
upon a Journey & returning home. 

W. Woodruff spoke & said that it is our privelege so to live as to have the spirit of God to bear 
record of the Truth of any revelation that Comes from God through the mouth of his Prophet who 
leads his people and it has ever been a key with me that when The Prophet who leads presents a 
doctrin or principle or says thus saith the Lord I make it a point to receive it even if it Comes in 
Contack with my tradition or views being well satisfied that the Lord would reveal the truth unto 
his Prophet whom he has Called to lead his Church before he would unto me. And the word of 
the Lord through the prophet is the End of the Law unto me. 

0 Hyde & Joseph Young both backed me up. Joseph Young said "I do not believe in the doctrin 
or worshiping the attributes and not the auther. I once loved a woman. She says to me you shall 
have my respect & kind regards & she told me to go in peace. I told her it was not her good will 
that I wanted alone. I wanted her. So with my God. If he was to say to me Joseph here take my 
attributes & go I would say No father it is not your attributes alone that I want but I want you. 
When I read O Pratts views in the Seer I Could not swallow it. Joseph the Prophet said when you 
see your Father you will see him Just as he was in this life ownly he will be full of Strength Glory 
Immortality & Eternal life. 

President Brigham Young said now here is the Twelve. I wish to extend there Influence as Far as 

1 Can but I Cannot do it while they teach Fals doctrine. One of the Causes of the declaration in 
England (as I understand the people are Clear down) is what Orson Pratt Preached in the Seer. 
There is not a man in the Church that can preach better than Orson Pratt upon any subject which 
he understands. It is music to hear him. But the trouble is he will preach upon things he does not 
know any thing about and then he will preach fals doctrin & so will Elder Hyde. He preaches 
upon the resurrection & teaches things which are not true. 

I will tell you the God which you and I worship, it is a Being that was on an Earth like this. He 
has been Cloathed in Mortality the same as we have been and he has had Devils to fight the same 
as we have had but I do not expect they were the same Devils that we have. That God says I am 
your God and there is none Els. Let us worship him and none Els. He is the God that we have. 

No matter what Gods Enoch saw when the heavens were opened unto him if the God he saw had 
been exalted millions of years before our God was. He also had to occupy an Earth like ourselves 
and we shall find it out at some period and this is all the mystery there is about it & if we are 


Page268 




faithful we in our turn shall be Exalted and become Gods and there will be no mystery about it 
when we understand it. 

O Hyde said I am satisfied that I have used a good deal of Philosiphy which is not true but that is 
all done away with, and I did not think I should meet with the Prejudices of Potawatamie here to 
night. 

President Young said if you bring Potawatamie with you you [mus?]t expect to meet it. O Hyde 
said that he did not preach in Grantsville as Brother Joseph Young reported he did. Brother 
Joseph was not Present and he has been misinformed Concerning it. E. T. Benson Explained the 
way O Hyde did preach. He compaired the resurrection to taking a Journey around the world. We 
travel all day stop at a station at night lie down and sleep at night arise in the morning & 

Continue our Journey through another day & so on. So at the End of this life we sleep in the 
grave till the morning of the resurrection. We then arise and Continue our Journey." 

Brother Benson also said I do not preach things which I do not know. I keep in shallow water. I 
wish to teach the people those things which they Can understand, and those things we Cannot 
understand I do not trouble myself about. I know it is my duty to sustain the presidet of this 
Church. If I do not respect the Presidet of this church and believe his word and I set my self up 
against him I am under Condemnation. I would as lives Cut off my right Hand. If he speaks to us 
we must believe him and obey him. I mean to do it. 

Erastus Snow said President Young has put words in my mouth so that I Can Convey what I 
want. We are apt to say many things which we do not mean & we injure ourselves. I Cannot see 
things in the same light that Orson Pratt does but when President Young has taught doctrin it has 
always tasted good to me. I do not wish to know any more than God wishes me to. 

Orson Pratt said I will speak upon this subject. I have not spoaken but once in the Tabernacle 
since Conference. I then spoke upon the revelations in the Doctrins & Covenants Concerning the 
Father & son & their atributes. I spoke upon those attributes of the Father & son. I spoke of the 
Attributes of the Saints. I gave my views upon the attributes of God. I sincerly believed what I 
preached. How long I have believed this doctrin I do not know but it has been for years. I have 
published it in the seer. I spoke of a plurality of Gods. In order to worship this God I said that I 
adored the atributes wharever I found them. I was honest in this matter. * [The asterisk is 
Woodruffs .] I would not worship a god or Tabernacle that did not possess Attributes. If I did I 
should worship Idols. I have taught this doctrin. 

Now the reson I worship the Father is because in him is Combined the attributes. If he had not 
those attributes I would not worship him any more than I would this Chair. I Cannot see any 
difference between myself and President Young. If you had told me what you worshiped him for 
you would have told me sumthing but now I Can see no difference between us. I wish to Explain 
Now Jesus Said I am in the Father & the Father in me. Now I do not suppose that the Father is in 
the Son & the Son in the Father in the Tabernacle, but in the spirit and Attributes, truth light 
power &c. We are told that the son represents the Father in Attributes &c. 


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I Called upon the Brethren to Come to this meeting to settel this But I must have sumthing more 
than a declaration of President Young to Convince me. I must have Evidence. I am willing to 
take President Young as a guide in most things but not in all. President Young does not profess 
to have revelations in all things. I am not to loose my agency. I have said many things which 
President Young says is Fals. I do not know how it is. I Count President Young Equal to Joseph 
And Joseph Equal to President Young. I find things in Josephs Revelations that govern me. I 
would as lief believe Joseph as Brigham. When Joseph teaches one thing & Brigham seems to 
teach another Contrary to Joseph (I say seems to) I believe them as Joseph has spoken them and 
as the Apostle speaks of them. 

I do not know God ownly by his Atributes and that God who has the most Atributes I worship. I 
worship but one God, and God does not dwell in me ownly by his Atributes. I have spoken 
plainly. I would rather not have spoken so plainly but I have No excuses to make. President 
Young said I ought to make a Confession But Orson Pratt is not a man to make a Confession of 
that I do not Believe. I am not going to Crawl to Brigham Young and act the Hypocrite and 
Confess what I do not Believe. I will be a free man. President Young Condemns my doctrin to be 
fals. I do not believe them to be fals. I believe President Young to be sincere in sayin that my 
doctrin is fals. 

I did not Believe the doctrin fals which I published in the Seer in England. It has been said we 
should let those things sleep. But you do not let them sleep. If I had thought while in England 
that President Young worshiped a God without attributes I would not have written what I did. 
(The above remark was an unkind Cut in Orson Pratt he should not have said.") But I do not 
believe it yet I will not act the Hypocrite. It may Cost me my fellowship But I will stick to it if I 
die tonight I would say O Lord God Almighty I believe what I say. 

Elder John Taylor spoke at some length and tried to Convince Orson Pratt of his Error. 

President Young said Orson Pratt has started out upon false premises to argue upon. His 
foundation has been a fals one all the time and I will prove it false. You have been like a mad 
stoubern Mule, and have taken a fals position in order to accuse me. You have accused me of 
worshiping a stalk or Stone or a dead Body without life or attributes. You never herd such a 
doctrin taught by me or any leader of the Church. It is as false as Hell and you will not hear the 
last of it soon. You know it is false. Do we worship those attributes? No we worship God 
because he has all those Attributes and is the dispenser of them and because he is our Father & 
our God. Orson Pratt puts down a lie to argue upon. He has had fals ground all the time to night. 
There never was a time or Eternity but what a God did exist, and a God that had Children upon 
the same principle that Children are now begotton. And I was begotton by the God I worship who 
reigns in the heavens and I shall also in my turn reign as a God & so will you. 

O. Hyde said to O Pratt, My opinion is not worth as much to me as my fellowship in this Church. 

President Young said Michael was a resurrected Being and he left Eloheem and Came to this 


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Earth & with an im[mor]tal Body & continued so till he partook of Earthly food and begat 
Children who were mortal. (Keep this to yourselves). Then they died. 

A Carrington spoke upon the subject a short time & made some useful remarks. 

President Young spoke upon the subject of O Pratt laying down fals principle to work upon. That 
principle if Carried out would place us in a position that when a man got a fulness of the 
Attributes of God they would have to worship themselves. But if we worship God we worship 
him because he possesses all the Attributes and dispenses them to the Children of men. All these 
Attributes are the servants of God. They serve his purposes and are at his Command. 

President H C Kimball Followed President Young and said Brother Orson Pratt has withstood 
Joseph and he has withstood Brother Brigham many times and he has done it to night and it made 
my Blood Chill. It is not for you to lead but to be led by him. You have not the power to dictate 
but to be dictated. 

W. Woodruff arose and said Brother Orson Pratt I wish to ask you one or two questions. You see 
that the spirit and doctrin which you possess is entirely in a oposition to the First Presidency The 
Quorum of the Twelve, and all who are present this evening and it Chills the Blood in our veins 
to hear your words & feel your spirit. Should not this be an Evidence to you that you are wrong? 
What would become of the Quorum of the Twelve if we all felt as you do? We should all go to 
Hell in a pile to gether. 

You say you are honest in the Course you are pursueing. I wish to ask you if you was honest 
when you said that if you had known that President Young worshiped a God without life or 
Attributes that you would not have written what you did. (O Pratt said I will recall that.) It was an 
insult to President Young and the Holy Priesthood which he holds. Evry man in this room who 
has a particle of the spirit of God knows that President Young is a Prophet of God and that God 
sustains him and He has the Holy Spirit and his doctrins are true, and that he is qualifyed to lead 
the people and he has explained evry thing so plain this evening that a Child Can understand it 
and yet it is no evidence to you. Nothing Can make an impression upon you. No argument can 
reach your understanding. 

But Brother Orson I have seen the day when you was in sorrow. It was when you was Cast out of 
your Quorum and out of the Church and that to in Consequence of pursueing the Same Course 
you are this evening. Then you Could both see feel & understand. Then argument Could reach 
you when you saw your glory and Crown departing from you. I beg of you to reflect and not let 
your will Carry you to Far in these things. 

It would be better for us not to be able to Cast up a single sum in adition and be humble before 
the Lord than to have ever so much knowledge & pennit that knowledge to lead us to 
destruction. There are but few men upon Earth upon whom God has bestowed such gifts, 
qualifications and reasoning powers as he has upon you, and he will hold you responsible for the 
use you make of them, and you should not make a wreck of your salvation for Contending for 


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things which you do not understand. And I do feel at this advanced state of the Church and late 
day and with the information which you possess that neither you nor your Brethren ought to be 
troubled with Fals doctrin. Neither should you Cause your Brethren to listen to such a scene of 
things as we have herd to night or to insult the presidet of this church as you have done. 

Although you are unbending in your will to night the day is not far distant when you will be glad 
to bend to the presidet of this Church and make reconciliation. 

Erastus Snow Followed and backed up the Testimony of those who have spoaken. Orson Hyde 
Spoke upon the subject and said Brother Pratt had not got the spirit of God. 

He was followed By C. C. Rich who backed up the Testimony of the Twelve in saying that Orson 
Pratt was wrong. E. T. Benson spoke upon the same subject and said if Brother Pratt had the 
Confidence in Presidet Young which he ought to have he would Feel diferent. If he had the 
Confidence in his Brethren which he should have I know He would feel different. 

President Young said I will tell you how I got along with Joseph. I found out that God Called 
Joseph to be a Prophet. I did not do it. I then said I will leave the Prophet in the hands of that God 
who called and ordained him to be a Prophet. He is not responsible to me and it is none of my 
business what He does. It is for me to follow & obey him. 

I once was ashamed of one thing which I did while in Missouri in Zions Camp. I got a revelation 
that God excepted our offering. I had the same thing revealed to me twice & that we should not 
go into Jackson Co. I named this to some of the Brethren a day or two before Joseph got a 
Revelation upon the same subject. I felt ashamed that I named it first. I knew whare we were 
going and I now know that when we go to Jackson County we shall go from the west. And I will 
now tell you all and you may right it down that all my preaching by the Holy Ghost is revelation. 

I told Brother Joseph that he had given us revelation enough to last us 20 years. When that time 
is out I can give as good revelation as their is in the Doctrins & Covenants. 

"Elder Taylor said in one of his sennons that if we walk in the light of the Lord we should have 
revelations all the time." It is the light that is within you. No man Can live his religion without 
living in Revelation but I would never tell a revelation to the Church untill Joseph told it first. 

Joseph Once told me to go to his own house to attend a meeting with him. He said that He would 
not go without me. I went and Hiram Preached upon the Bible Book of Mormon & Covenants 
and said we must take them as our guide alone. He preached vary lengthy untill he nearly wearied 
the people out. When he Closed Joseph told me to get up. I did so. I took the Books and piled 
them all up on top of Each other. I then said that I would not give the ashes of a rye straw for all 
those books for my salvation without the living oracles. I should follow and obey the living 
oracles for my salvation instead of any thing Els. When I got through Hyrum got up and made a 
Confession for not including the living Oracles. 

It may be thought strange by the Brethren that I will still fellowship Elder Pratt after what He has 


Page272 




said but I shall do it. I am determined to whip Brother Pratt into it and make him work in the 
harvest. 

Orson Pratt said if I gratifyed my feelings I had rather go into the Canyon than to Preach. I have 
got to go to Tooele to get wood for my family. 

Presidet Young said I will give you a mission in Tooele to preach & send word to the Bishop to 
get some man & draw up his wood. Brother Pratt has no business in the Canyon. The Lord does 
not want him there. F D Richard Dismissed the meeting. 

28th I spent the day in the office. I met with the Twelve in the prayer Circle. Orson Pratt met 
with us. He did not dress but said he wanted to be in the Society of the Twelve. He seemed much 
more soft in his spirit than he had been. 

29th Sunday I met at the Tabernacle. Orson Pratt was in the stand and ^ Quite unexpected to his 
Brethren he arose before his Brethren and made a vary humble full Confession Before the whole 
assembly for his oposition to President Young and his Brethren and He said he wished all the 
Church was present to hear it. He quoted Joseph Smiths revelation to prove that President 
Brigham Young was right and that all was under obligation to follow the Leader of the Church. I 
never herd Orson Pratt speak better or more to the satisfaction of the People than on this 
occasion. He would not partake of the sacrament untill he had made a Confession. Then he 
partook of it. 

I attended the evening meeting at the 14 ward. I Preached & was followed by Orson Pratt. 

301 spent the day in the office Journalizing & writing letters. 

3 1 } I wrote in my Journal the report of the meeting at Presidents Youngs last Friday night. 

February 

Feb 1 I spent the day in the office Journalizeing. I had an interview with Brother Philip 
Hammand Buzzard of Mill Creek ward. He gave me an account of the sheep in Iowa. Lived near 
John C Bennett who was speculating in sheep, Hogs & Fowles. 

2d I wrote 2 letters one to Wm. Hooper & one to Dr Thomas K Brooks Fort Demoin, Polk Co. 
Iowa upon the subject of Sheep. I then rode to Fort Harriman and Preached in the evening to the 
people. Spent the night in the Fort. 

3d I spent the day in the fort. I doctered my flock of Sheep for the scab. I used tar and grease 
about half & half and tubed on the scab. We found that to be as good a remedy as we Could get. 
We went out to the sheep ground and it looked as though a sheep Could not live but yet they do 
vary well. We have 14 lambs and but 5 Ewes. 

4th I returned home today with Brother Stockings who Carried me home in a sleigh. It was vary 
Cold. In passing over a water ditch Br Stockings was flung out of the sleigh and draged head fore 


Page273 




most by the lines. 

I attended a party at the 15 ward Hall. 

5 Sunday I met with my Quorum in the morning. Wilford prayed & A Ivins was mouth. I 
attended meeting at the Tabernacle. Erastus Snow preached. Sung Redeemer of Israel in 
N[a/e?]lly Gray. Lorenzo Young dismissed. I preached at the 15 ward Hall to a full house. Was 
follow [by] Bishop A Connigham. The Eastern Letter mail Came in. 

6 I spent the day in the office. 

7 I attended the trial of several young men at the policee station for breaking up a party last [ 

]. Drew Pistols threatened life and broke the peace in many ways. While hearing the testimony it 
was shown that while one of the party broke into the room and was in the act of striking Joseph 
Smith (the son of Hyram) when Samuel Smith (son of Samuel B Smith) struck the man and 
knocked him against the wall. This was the ownly blow given on Either side. They threatened to 
kill Samuel Smith. The trial was conducted at Jeter Clintons office [in] the police Station. 

At the Close of the testimony Justice Clinton Called upon me to speak. I addressed them some 15 
minutes in giving them a morral lesson to the young Men who were present and had Committed 
wrongs upon there Neighbors and at the Close The Justice Approved of the Course of Samuel 
Smith in not going out to fight with the rowdies when they threatened him. Be fined the boys 
who had raised the row five dollars Each. 

There was a great party at the Social Hall. The Presidency Twelve Members of the Legislature 
City Officers & others including Gov Cummings Gen Srambough & Staff. Tickets were $10 per 
Couple. Wilford & Robert had a Company of young people at our house. Danced till 3 oclock. 

8th I spent the day in the office and the night at home. 

9 I Called upon President Kimball with Brother Jaques to get an account of the party. We found 
Brother Kimball with a cold & lame hand but quite Cheerful. Be gave us an account of the Party. 
General Stambough & Staff enjoyed themselves extremly well. Were highly delighted. They took 
supper at 10 oclock. Gov Cummings left soon after supper. Did not seeme as well pleased as the 
others. Be said there were about 200 persons present. They left from 3 to 5 oclok in the morning. 
Stambaugh & Staff remained till 5 oclok. They said they had never seen any thing like it in there 
lives. 

I spent the day in the office. I Called at President Youngs office with a Book I think the gospel of 
Nicodemus. I left it with A. Carrington. He Came & spent the time in the office till 9 oclok. 

There was a Party at the Social Hall which included all the Clerks of our office. 

10th I was quite unwell with a severe Cold. I spent the day in the office reading letters of 1849. 
Brother Cowley died last night. 


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1 1th I still suffer with a bad Cold. I spent the forenoon in the office. I met with the Quorum in the 
evening there being present O Hyde O Pratt E. T. Benson & W Woodruff. E T Benson prayed. O 
Pratt was mouth <who had said he was sorry that I did not attend President Youngs party. He 
thought that when President Young made a party and invited the> 12 <all should attend that 
could.> 

12 Sunday I met with my Quorum in the morning. We had a full Company. I attended meeting at 
the Tabernacle. O Hyde Preached upon the Concentration of the mind followed by O. Pratt upon 
the same subject. He spoke of the great acheivments of Sir Isaac Newton upon this principle and 
many others had accomplished great things by the great Concentration of the mind which Could 
not be accomplished upon any other Principle. This principle should be applyled in all our 
spiritual devotions. Mathimatics was an excellent subject to disipline the mind upon. 

I Called upon President Wells who has an attack of the inflamatory rheumatism. I administered to 
him by the laying on of hands. I then went to the 14th ward meeting. D Candland Preached a 
good sermon. I follow him. 

13 We had an Eastern paper mail this morning. I got 2 Tribunes. Not much News. No 
organization of the House yet. I spent the day in the office and the night till 2 oclock in the 
Seventies Ball with the Twelve and others. The time was spent in singing Dancing & speaking. 

141 Called upon President Wells. He is still sick. His rheumaticks have moved down into his 
knees. It has been thawing for several days. It is snowing vary hard today. I spent the day in the 
office. 

15 It is warm & thawing to day. I spent the day in the office reading Letters. I read the Letters of 
two months. I spent one hour of the evening with President D. H. Wells who has the inflamitory 
rheumatism. He conversed vary freely upon a variety of subjects of past days. 

I then Called upon President Young. I found him & Brother Kimball & Bishop Hunter together. 
After an hour O Hyde & Wm. Price Came in. President Young O Hyde W. Woodruff & Edward 
Hunter laid hands upon Wm. Price & ordained him a Bishop to preside over the Goshen Branch. 
President Young was mouth. He gave him good advice. 

161 spent the time in the office. I wrote a Letter to John King Concerning } sheep. Brother 
Stocking says that I have over 30 lambs and two lost. 

17 A plesant morning. I spent the day in the office. Presidet Young Called into the office at about 
1 oclok. He said when he Come in I want to ask a question and that is what do the Clerks do in 
this and how much do they do in a day. I told him as near as I Could. 

Brother Richard Britain Came in with President Young & told all his misfortunes. He said he had 
broke many of his bones. He said nothing prospered that He touched. If he sowed any seed in the 
ground it would not grow. 


Page275 




President Young spoke of a Cure for a sprain. Heat up the system and the limb with hot watter, 
then into the Cold water alternately. He had known many sprains Cured in this way. 

In speaking of the House of Congress not organizing He said I look for the members to go to the 
treasurer & demand their pay or per Dium. Many remarks were made. 

181 rode to Fort Hariman and spent the night. Wilford also went & Carried a load of Potatoes for 
the sheep. I laid hands upon Brother Cooper in the last stage of the Quick Consumpsion. It 
appeared as though He could not live but a short time. 

19 Sunday I preached to the people in the fort during the day & in the evening A. O. Smoot 
Preached upon the subject of the organization of the thieves in this territory and that there must 
be a stop put to it. I followed him & talked vary plain upon the same subject. 

20th I examined my sheep this morning. I found 33 lambs & had lost 3. Several of the sheep had 
the scab vary bad. We rubed on tar & greese onto the sore spots. It is said to Cure whatever it 
touches. 

I rode home with Brother Smoot. Wilford also Came home with the mules. I found the Eastern 
mail had Came in. I got 3 Tribunes & one American Agric[...]. No organization of the House up 
to Feb 1st. They are Still Quarrelling. 

I spent the evening in the Historian office. The Regency met at President Youngs office & 
President Young spoke upon Esstablishing High schools in this City. Said He should Call upon 
the Conference to appropriate a portion of the tithing for this purpose. We had a hard snow storm 
at night. 50 nils. 

21 I spent the day in the office. President Young called upon us at the office & said he wished us 
to do a little work. He wanted us to get out the following Books: ^ Short Biography of the life of 
Brigham Young, History of Joseph Smith, History of Great Salt Lake City, arival of the Saints & 
Progress of Mormonism, Short Biography of the Church. He wished it for Capt Gibson who 
wishes it for an encyclopedia or general History which is getting up in the U.S.A. He said Capt 
Gibson would Come into the office & write. I spent the evening at the office. 

22/1 called upon Capt Gibson & had a plesant interview with him. The door is open through 
Capt Gibson to publish in the New American Cyclopaedia, The History of the Church including 
Joseph Smith & Brigham Young The Twelve &c. President Young called into the office a short 
time. He then went down to a party at sister Cobbs. 

23 A clear Cold morning. I spent the day in the office. Capt Gibson Called upon us and spent a 
short time in the office. I attended a meeting of the D A & M Society at Bishop Hunters. I 
attended a party & took supper at J. C. Little. 

24 Presidents Young & Kimball Came in to the office at 1 oclok PM also E. T. Benson & C. C. 


Page276 




Rich. I spent the day in the office. 

25 I spent the day in the office. I wrote a Letter to the Citizens of Washington Co } and one to 
Jacob Hamblin signed by Bishop Hunter & G. A. Smith. I met with the Quorum of the Twelve in 
the evening. O. Pratt Prayed. J. Taylor was mouth. 

26th Sunday I met with my Quorum in the morning. I attended meeting at the Tabernacle. Elder 
James H. Hart Preached upon the kingdom of God. I preached in the evening to the people of the 
14 ward. I had much of the spirit of Preaching. 

27 I spent the day in the office. 

28 I attended The Lecture of Capt Walter M. ? Gibson delivered in the Social Hall upon the 
geography of the Indian Archipeligo giving an account of the Animal, Mineral, & vegitable 
kingdom touching upon the inhabitants, & said there were some 10 thousand Islands in the 
Indian Archipeligo Chain. He also spoke of the feathered tribe. His lecture was vary interesting. 
He also spoke of the Navigators for a 1,000 years past who had visited those Island & there fate. 

0 Pratt opened by prayer & J Taylor Closed. Notice was given out for Capt Gibson to lecture on 
Saturday night & Orson Pratt on Thursday night. John Taylor Dismissed. 

29 I spent the day in the office. Presidet Young Called upon us at 1/2 past 5 oclok. He said He 
had now Forty living Children 23 girles 17 Boys. He had bom unto him 23 Boys and 24 girls and 
had lost 7 children. He spoke ? of Capt Gibsons lecture about the Temple 500 feet high. 

March 

2 ^ March 1st 1860 This is my Birth day. I am 53 years old this day. I feel sensative when I look at 
these figures. Truly how short is life. Like a weavers shuttle it soon passes. Man should strive 
diligently to make his life useful. He should speak the truth, live honestly, practice virtue, and set 
an example generally worthy of imitation and ever keep in mind that it will pay no man to 
defraud his Neighbor, or break the Commandments of God. 

1 spent most of the day in the endowment House assisting in the Endowments. We gave 
Endowments to 24, 7 men 17 women. HCK Presided in the labor of the day. President B Young 
attended to the Sealing. I attended Orson Pratts lecture upon Natural History & Philosophy 
treating upon the motion of Bodies which was quite interesting. 

March 2d 1860 We had a Cold snow storm last night. We have had a vary Cold winter the 
hardest winter in many respects we have ever experienced. Long steady Cold weather. Elder 
Lorenzo Snow and his two daughters spent the night at my house. 

I spent the day in the office. President B Young Called into the office & spent some time in 
Conversation with G. A. Smith who is still laid up with his sprained ancle. 

President Young said he had heard that the army was all Called away except three or four 


Page277 




Companies. Elder O Hyde Called in and said that President Young had given him and Elder E. T. 
Benson a Mission Elder O Hyde to Sanpete with a part of his family and E. T. Benson to Cash 
valley with a part of his family. 

We Conversed upon the subject of the lecture of Capt Gibson. We wished to Change it from the 
social Hall to the Tabernacle. I Called upon President Young upon the subject. He said he had no 
objections to its being in the tabernacle if I would see it lighted. 

I called upon L. L. Sprague & Capt Gibson upon the subject. I then attended Professors O Pratt's 
lecture in the 14 ward upon Natural Philosophy. At the Close I made some remarks upon the 
subject of learning. Recommended the Family reading Books to be upon science instead of 
novels. 

3 I spent the day in the office. I spent the evening at the Tabernacle in listening to an interesting 
lecture of Capt Walter M Gibson upon the history of the Malays at Sumatra including there 
Customs Language, Religion &c. 

4th Sunday I met with my Quorum in the morning for Prayers. I attended Meeting at the 
tabernacle. President Young Preached a vary interesting Discourse which was reported By G. D. 
Watt. I also reported it. 

At the Close of the meeting I in company with Presidents Young & Kimball & J Taylor & 
Lorenzo Snow Called upon President D. H. Wells who was fast recovering from his sickness. 

While speaking of the Malays President Young said that He was of the opinion that the Malays 
were of the seed of Abraham. They went to those Islands the same as they Came to this 
Continent. They are probably of Abrams Promised seed. They have a cerimony to marry for 
Eternity. This principle shows that they obtained their traditions from Ancient Israel for the 
gentiles did not practice it & it has been handed down among them through many Generations 
untill the present time. The Malays are a vary war like people and proud and while in Battle 
rather than to be saved by one of there servants they would perish. They would not owe there 
lives to a slave. 

We see a great varity & grade of intelligence. I see right here in the midst of this people some 
who do not know their right hand from there left. I see people freequently People who do not 
appear to have any understanding. They will also increas but they will be so far behind they will 
never Catch up, and they will never be any thing but servants. Such may be saved and get a good 
place. 

President Young said I Corrected O Pratt to day. I did not say to him that God would increase to 
all Eternity. But I said the moment that we say that God knows all things Comprehends all things 
and has a fulness of all that He ever will obtain that moment eternity ceases. You put bounds to 
Eternity space & matter and you make an End and stoping place to it. The people or many say 
thay cannot understand these things. This is true. No man can understand the things of Eternity 


Page278 




And Brother Pratt and all men should let the matter of the gods alone. 

I do not understand these things Neither does any man in the flesh and we should let them alone. 
Some men profess infidelity but when they go into Eternity they will find all they see in this life 
upon the Earth is ownly a similitude of what thay will find in the next world. 

In speaking of the subjet of faith He said we will find but little faith but a good deal of belief. 
Every body has that for it is an inherent principle in all. I have laid hands upon people when I 
knew they would be healed. At other times I have laid hands upon people when I did not feel that 
way & still they were healed. I once laid hands upon a sister Lake when she said she had No 
faith. I told her I did not Care whether she had or not for I had and I knew she would be healed. I 
laid hands upon her & she was immediately healed. I dont know how it is or how faith Comes 
ownly as the gift of God. I know No other way to get it. 

John Taylor said Joseph told him once to go & lay hands upon a person who was possessed of a 
Devil & cast him out and leave the house & dont speak to any person. I did so & left the house 
without saying a word & the devil left her. 

The Conversation turned upon Josephs Children. Brother Taylor said it was a pity that Emma had 
such an influence over them. B Young said Bless your heart the Lord watches over them & will 
take care of them. 

5th March 1860 I spent the day in the office. I attended O Pratts lecture upon Philosiphy at the 
Tabernacle. It was a dark rainy night. There was quite a Congregation. He treated upon light the 
two theories by which it is conveyed also its velosity, also vibration Music, sound, its velosoty in 
air & water and showed how the velosity of light was discovered by a stars Asstronomer while 
taking an observation of the four Moons of Jupiter for one year he found a variation in the time 
of the eclipsis of Jupeters Moons according to the distance he was from Jupeter while standing 
upon the Earth in its different positions * in its ordit in its revolutions around the sun. His lecture 

* was vary interesting. He was followed by John Taylor Concerning what the Lord says about his 
being the light of the Sun and of all worlds & the power by which all things were formed. 

The Eastern Mail Came in to day and brought a few papers. 

6*1 spent the day in the office the evening at home. We had a hard snow stonn throug the night. 
Wilford Came from Fort Harriman with his Horses to day. [The astericks on 6, 7 March are 
Woodruffs.] 

7 It is stonning hard this morning. I spent the time in the Endowment house this forenoon. We 
gave Endowments to 28, 15 Men & 13 women. Among the Number was Capt Walter M. Gibson 
& his Daughter also E R Young & wife. I spent the after noon in the office. 

* In the afternoon of the 6th President Young Came into the H. Office and herd a letter read 
written in the Deseret Alphabet by a man in the Creek Indian Nation by the name of Ireing. It was 
a good letter. 


Page279 




It showed the good intention of the man to preach the gospel to that People. 

President Young said if the United States annexed us to New Mexico we would soon become an 
independent Nation and organize ourselves into a government. 

I attended Capt Gibson lecture in the Tabernacle which was vary interesting. 

8 I spent most of the day in the office. I sold one of my ponies to day to Brother Box for $75 in 
goods. I Bought 7,000 shingle & paid $ 10 per thousand in trade. 

9 I spent the fore part of the day Choreing for myself the afternoon in the office. Capt Gibson 
Called in a short time. I had some Conversation with him upon Temperal matters. He told me 
that He once helped a man in France a Frenchman a relative of King Louis Philip who was 
imprisioned on some trifling offence and Capt Gibson through money and influence helped him 
out of prision. He has arived lately in New York bought a ship & is now on his way to San 
francisco with the expectation to put Capt Gibson in Command of it. This young Frenchmans 
Mother gave him $30,000 dollars when he left her. Capt Gibson got a letter From him the last 
Mail, asking him how he got along with those strange people the mormons. He expets to Meet 
with Capt Gibson at San francisco but as Capt Gibson has received the gospel He now awaits the 
will of God & the Council of his servants. He has been to some $150,000 Expens in his travels 
upon the Earth and Explorations <but he is now out of funds and means. I gave him some 
twenty-five dollars worth of provisions today. May the Lord [still?] bless him.> 

I attended Orson Pratts lecture in the Tabernacle. He discoursed mostly upon the subject of 
Hydrolics and made it quite interesting. 

101 spent the day in the office. I met with my Quorum in the evening. I opened by Prayer. John 
Taylor was mouth. 

1 1th I met with my Circle in the morning. Wilford opened by prayer. Brother Caine was mouth. I 
attended meeting at the tabernacle. Phineas Young preached & was followed by President Young 
who delivered an Excellent discourse. I spent the evening at the Historians office. 

12 I rode down into the Field on top of a load of Lumber & shingles. We got Stalled in a 
mudhole and one mule down. We had to unload. I laid out our Carall & stock yard. I spent the 
afternoon in the office. The Eastern Mail Came in this Evening I got one tribune of Feb 17. 1 
spent the evening in the office. 

131 spent the day in the office. I spent the evening with Brother Winder & Hunter prepareing 
premiums & appointing Committies. 

14^1 went to the Endowment House at 8 oclok and anointed 16 men preparatory to their 
receiving their Endowments. We gave Endowments to 30 in all 16 men 14 women. President 
Heber C Kimball delivered an address upon his Feelings to the Brethren. (See private History.) 


Page280 




I spent the afternoon in the office Journalizing. I took supper at S. M. Blairs in company with a 
party of Neighbors. 

151 called upon D. H. Wells. I found him a little better this morning. He has been troubled with a 
dizeness of the brain & stupor. 

I attended the lecture of Capt Gibson at the Tabernacle upon the Islands of Java & New Ginnea. 

It was a varry interesting account of those Islands, with there productions & inhabitants. 

161 was quite unwell this morning. I spent the day in the office also the evening. President 
Young & Carrington came into the office Before six oclok & spent several hours Confersing with 
G. A. Smith. We had a severe wind & rain during the night. 

17th A Cold morning I went to the Blacksmith to get a mule shod. From there to the office and 
spent the day. I met with the Twelve in the evening for Prayer. E. T. Benson Prayed. Erastus 
Snow was mouth. 

1 8 Sunday I met with my Quorum in the morning. Brother Moody was mouth in opening & 
Edward Hunter followed. I attended meeting at the Tabernacle. J Taylor Preached. I called upon 
President Young & spent 2 hours in his office. I then met with Presidet Kimball & conversed 
with him in the office. Then we spent a short time with G. A. Smith. I then took a walk with 
Brother Kimball about his premises. He spoke upon the subject of Famine. Said he was satisfied 
that it would Come. 

I attended meeting at the 14 ward school House. Robert L Campbell spoke a short time. I 
followed him. I had the spirit of the Lord upon me. I spoke plain & pointed upon apostacy. I said 
that when men who had embraced the gospel of Jesus Christ and received the Priesthood they 
were then in a situation to become Saints or Devils and as long as they were led by the spirit of 
the Lord and they live there religion they will do the works of righteousness and obey the Lord. 
But when they cease to pray and loose the spirit of the Lord and begins to give way to that which 
is evil his guardian Angel leaves him, and the spirit of the devil takes possession of him and he 
begins to do the work of the devil and all the sins which is necessary for a man to Commit in 
order to become a Devil is laid in his path and he is immediately tempted to Commit them 
esspecially the sheding of innocent Blood for which their is no Forgiveness in this world nor in 
the world to Come. This Crime the apostate Seeks to Commit and this will make a Devil of them. 

Jesus was put to death by the Jews, his Brethren the seed of Abraham. Joseph Smith was put to 
death through the Influence of his Brethren and those who had bom the Holy Priesthood & stood 
near him in office and betrayed him as was the Savior by Judas. It is so in this day. Men who 
have received the Holy Priesthood are seeking to betray Brigham Young to death. They seek to 
shed the Blood of the Innocent that they may become deavils. They are inspired by the devil to do 
this and such men exist right here in this City and territory and they will Continue to exist upon 
the Earth untill Christ reigns. 


Page281 




191 spent the day in the office. I attended O Pratt lecture in the evening upon Asstronomy and 
the law of gravitation & forses and the scales to weigh the sun moon stars and all the planitary 
system. It was vary interesting. 

20 Dr {Wm. France} Died this morning at 6 oclock with the pleurisy of the heart. He died vary 
suddenly. He has been one of the most skilful Surgeons of his generation. He was opened by Dr 
Anderson & found that the left lung was affected. About 2/3 of it was grown up so it Could not 
be used. I spent the day in the office. 

211 spent the day in the Endowment House till 10 oclok. We gave endowments to 13 Men & 15 
women. I was in great pain with the sun head ake. I attended a meeting with the 14 ward for the 
purpose of Building our Center building. We voted to raise a tax to finish the Room. 

22 I suffered much with nervous headake. I kept my head wet with Cold water. President Young 
Called in half past 3 oclok said that He had been out to pick out a location for a powder mill 
North East part of the Church farm. Alexander Piper is going to Carry it on with Brother 
Edwards. Brother Young spoke of leaching Earth for Saltpeter. Thought we ought to make our 
own powder and lead. He spoke of the dealing of the government with us. President Kimball & 
Wells are both sick today. I met with the Board of the agricultural society. 

23d & 24 I was mostly Confined to my Bed with the Nervous Headake. 

25th Sunday I spent the day at home. 

26th to 3 1st I spent this week lying abed through the middle of the day with the sick Head ake. I 
visited Brother Kimball who was sick laid hands upon him & blessed him. President Young 
Called at the office almost daily. He called Saturday evening. Robert & Wilford ploughed 10 
acres of wheat ground sowed 9 acres of wheat & 1 acre of Oats. 

April 

April 1st Sunday I spent the day at home. Was still unwell. 

2d I rode down to the farm with the boys. It was a Cold windey day. 

3d It is a Cold snowey day. I Called at the office in the afternoon. I received [] a letter from G. A. 
Smith Notifying me to attend a Council Wednesday evening. 

4th I felt better to day. I bought 14 Appletrees of Hemingway & set them out in my Garden. 

2 ^ I attended a Council of the Presidency and Twelve at the Historians Office in the evening upon 
the subject of the sermon of Orson Pratt. The sennon was read & the time was occupied till half 
past 1 1 oclok in discussing the subject. President Young was the ownly one of the Presidency 
who were present. There were preset of the Twelve O. Hyde, O. Pratt W. Woodruff J Taylor G. 

A. Smith E T Benson C. C. Rich F D Richards & Erastus Snow. 


Page282 




President Young made many remarks Concerning Doctrinal points & the Situation of Orson Pratt 
who seemed vary dark in his mind upon many points of Doctrin. President Young wished the 
matter to be settelled before the Quorum of the Twelve and not go before the Conference. After 
spending several hours in investigating the subject it was decided for the Twelve to meet in the 
morning in prayer & Fasting and settle the business among ourselves. 

President Young said while speaking of Revelation that / some one asked if we were keeping the 
Celestial Law. It Came to me like a flash and I said it out. Can a people keep a Celestial Law 
while in a Telestial or Terrestrial kingdom? I think No people will keep the Fulness of a Celestial 
Law or have it revealed to them untill they inherit a Celestial Glory. 

5th The Quorum of the Twelve met this morning in the prayer room. We talked the matter over 
Concerning Brother Pratt dressed & prayed. Read over his sennon and Corrected it and the 
Twelve voted to receive the Confession of Orson Pratt. 

6th April 1860 A General Conference of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints met in 
the Tabernacle of the Lord in the City of the Great Salt Lake Utah Territory, at 10 oclock this 
day. 

There were present President Young of the First Presidency (H. C. Kimball & D. H. Wells were 
both sick). O. Hyde, O. Pratt, W. Woodruff, J Taylor, E. T. Benson C. C. Rich Lorenzo Snow, 
Erastus Snow, & F. D. Richards were present. The day was spent in hearing testimony. Presidet 
Young lead was Followed by the Twelve & the spirit & power of God rested upon them. 

I met with the Seventies in the evening & spoke to them. 

7 I spent the day in the Conference. The business of the Conference was presented and the 
remainder of the day spent in bearing testimony. 

8 I attended meeting with the Bishops in the evening at the Basement of the social Hall. Bishop 
Hunter addressed the meeting. At the Close of his remarks President Brigham Young than 
addressed the Bishop in a vary interesting manner Concerning there office. Brother Godard 
reported what He said. I also reported in the Office Private Journal a synopsis of what was said. 

Among his remarks He said that when a Bishop fully magnyfied his office they would preside 
over there wards as a man does over his family. The Bishop would dictate to every man woman 
& Child what they should [do]. No one shall be Idle but all should labour. The Bishop would 
then dictate to every man what he should raise and how much and every one should be set to 
work and when any one in the ward should have bread all should have it. Well says the poor 
shifless man that never earned a ho [me?] or a pair of shoes I would like that dootrin for then I 
would have a house as Big as Brigham Young. No you would not untill you Earned it. 

In speaking of Building up the Centre stake he said I now the Lord will not keep us out of 
Jackson County one day longer than we are prepared and the ownly fears I have had in the matter 


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is that the Lord will get tiered of waiting for us to get ready and will say I will wait no longer and 
if there is not more than five ready to go to Zion let them go & build it up. I do not think there is 
any prepared to go yet. I do not think that I am prepared yet to lay the Corner stone at the New 
Jerrusalam, But I mean to prepare myself as fast as I Can. 

9th I went down in the field set out 36 Locus trees and done some other work. 

10th I spent most of the day in the office. I planted a few peas. 

Ill sowed my Carrots & Beets today & spent a part of the day in the office. 

12 I rode to Fort Harriman. I went with two teams. 25 miles. 

13 I went to Jordan Mills with [2/3?] loads of logs & spent the night at Fort Harriman. 18 m. 

14 I went to the Jordan saw mill with [2/3?] loads logs. 18 m. 

15 Sunday I Preached to the people of Fort Harriman & laid hands upon a vary sick Child of 
Alexander Baron. 

161 took 3 loads of logs to the mills on Jordan making 15 saw logs delivered at Gardners Mills 
on Jordan. 18 mils. 

17/18 19/ We Commenced Cleaning out our sheep Carralls which Continued till the morning of 
the 19. We go out 30 loads of manure & put it on about 1 Acre of Ground. We plouded it & 
sowed it 

19 today with Carrotts, Beets, Peas & Hungarian Grass Seed & planted a Few rows of potatoes. It 
Commenced raining at Noon & rained all the afternoon & all night. 

20 It is snowing vary hard to day till 12 oclock. It was thought that as much snow Fell to day at 
this Fort as has Fallen any half day during winter. It soon Melted & Coverd the Earth with water. 
We left Fort Harriman at 3 oclok P.M. with 2 teams in the mud & water & drove to Jordon Mills. 
Took a load of Lumber & another waggon & drove home. Arived at home at about 10 oclok at 
night. 25 mils. 

211 went to the office this morning. I Found for me 2 letters from [] sheep raisers & several 
papers. I also learned that Thomas Williams & Permanic Jackman while on the way to Calafomia 
was murdered by the Indians. They were shot by arrors. Thus was Ended the life of the Thomas 
Williams who has apostitized from the Church and became an Enemy to the Saints. His [He] has 
received his reward. 

We had a rain this morning. I Find in Examining my orchard this morning that it dos not look as 
though the peach orchard would not Bloom this season. 

22d Sunday I attended meeting all day at the Tabernacle. I preached in the forepart of the day E. 
D. Woolley & Orson Hyde in the afternoon Followed by President Young who spoke in a vary 


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Edifying & interesting manner upon a great variety of subjects. 

23 The Eastern Mail Came in. Brought me some papers & a Letter [] From Capt Hooper with one 
inclosed upon sheep. I spent a part of the day in the office a part of the day triming my grape 
vines. 

President Young Called in the afternoon and spent an hour in social Conversation. Had 2 letters 
read From Capt Hooper & G. Q. Cannon which were quite interesting. He Conversed with 
Bishop Woolley about his going East. He told Bishop E D. Woolley that He was the Bishop over 
the First ward in this City and there was not money Enough in St Louis to hier him to leave the 
ward & go to St Louis to speculate and I presume you do not Expect to get rich at it. Now I Can 
see how to Council a man what to do for his own good but when I do it it Comes in Contact with 
his views & he dont wish to do it. 

24th I spent a part of the day in the office a part of the day tieing grapevines. 

25 I spent most of the day in the office. The Eastern mail Came in & Brought some papers But 
no letters. The missionaries according to appointment met at the Historians office at 3 oclock. 
There was Present Presidents Brigham Young & Daniel H. Wells. Also O. Hyde O. Pratt W. 
Woodruff G. A. Smith C. C. Rich Erastus Snow John Taylor & F D Richards of the 12 who 
Blessed 54 Missionaries. /W Woodruff Blessed 12 of the Above./ 1 was mouth in Blessing 
Walter M Gibson. 

At the Close of the Blessing of the missionaries Presidet Young addressed them in a vary 
Edifying manner. Among other remarks He said "I want you to go upon your mission in the spirit 
of God. You will do more good by bearing testimony of the work of God through the Holy Ghost 
than all the argument you Can use. You may take two men one may be vary learned in all the arts 
& siences of the day and be able to preach a Bible & a half in one serman and the other man may 
be ignorant of these things but be filled with the Holy Ghost. Let one preach by his learning & 
argument the other by the Holy Ghost & the man that preaches by the Holy Ghost will make ten 
saints whare the other will one. 

I do not wish by these remarks to lay one straw in the way of any of the Elders obtaining a 
knowledge of the Arts & sciences and being anned with truthful arguments upon evry subject. 
The Elders should seek diligently to obtain all knowledge in their power but they should obtain 
the Holy Ghost to assist them in their ministry. Unless a man Can fell that he administers the 
issues of life & death unto the people he does not magnify his Calling as an Elder in Israel. If a 
man [is] Called of God to preached the Gospel and he preaches it in the demonstration of the 
Holy Ghost according to his Calling it will prove a savior of life unto life or of Death unto death 
to those who hear. 

Some of you are going to visit your relations. Now when you get whare your relatives are dont 
set down at your Ease & give up preaching but remember that you are on a mission and you 
should improve your time. 


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You will have all manner of Evil spoken against you and all I ask of you and all that God or 
angels will ask of you is that not one word spoken against you will be true but that it shall all be 
fals and I want you for your own sake, my sake & for the sake of Christ & the kingdom of God 
that the wicked shall have no Cause to speak one word of Evil against you. And if you will go & 
not let down one thread of your Calling but do your duty in all things I would feel perfectly safe 
in warranting all of you a safe return home. Some have died while on there missions. This is 
lamentable For it is unnecessary. For if an Elder goes & does his duty in all things there is no 
neccesity of his Falling by the way. 

Another subject I wish to speak upon & that is about your beging upon your missions. I do not 
wish you to beg but trust in God & not have it to say when you Come home that you have robed 
any one or taking any thing unjustly from any one. Go & preach the gospel Faithfully & trust in 
God and He will give you all he has for you. 

There is another vary important subject which I wish to speak of & that is the Temptation you 
will have From women. This has Caused the down fall of more Elders in this Church than any 
other thing. There is some Elders who go on there missions all there lives and keep themselves 
Clean & pure all there lives. Others Comes home and are shady. There Countenance Falls. They 
Cannot look you strait in the Eye. They [have] fallen in the snare. 

Joseph Said in speaking to the First Twelve that they would have to watch against this snare For 
they would have more trouble From this source than any other. Now let evry woman alon while 
you are gone. Dont lay your hand upon any woman, but keep yourselves Clean. Some have to 
bring a group of women with them. They have to get a new dove into there house while they are 
gone. Fet those things alone while abroad. But what is done upon that subject let it be done here. 

While abroad you will meet with many who will want to debate with you. But dont Contend with 
any man but make a Bargin with such mean & tell them if they have one truth which you do not 
possess tell them you will exchange ten Errors for it if you will show me I have them. 

I shall meet with you tomorrow. You will have a letter of Instruction read & I want you to 
observe it. You will have prayers in Camp. There must be no swareing nor Contention. You may 
think this or that one does wrong but impute it to the Error of the Head & not the Heart. 

I have Appointed Joseph W Young to preside over the Camp going down. I dont want you to 
Hurry him. Those teams have got to Come back again. You will be Carried with your provisions 
Free But I want you to assist the Teamsters about getting along. Ther must not be any abuse of 
Cattle. I have never pennitted this in any Company I have had Controll of. I will never permit a 
man to abuse a dumb brute yoaked or Harnessed up that Cannot get away or speak for himself. 
But if a man wants to abuse any thing let him strike a strong man that will knock him down in 
return. But dont abuse a dumb animal. 

At the Close of the remarks Erastus Snow dismissed the meeting. 


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I walked home with Capt Gibson took supper with him & Conversed with him for some two 
hours Concerning his mission F[ormer?] life. He remarked that the 25 April was a vary Notable 
day to him. He Escaped From his prison in the island of Java. He arived home at South Caralina 
& and met with a wann demonstration of his townsmen on the 25 April. He had now been set 
apart & Blessed under the hands of 2 of the Twelve Apostles (W Woodruff being mouth) to go 
upon a mission to preach the gospel to the United States upon the 25 April. He felt much pleased 
with his blessing & wished me to write it off & forward it to him. 

26th I spent the Forepart of my day writing in this Journal. Elder A Lyman arived home this 
Evening. I Called upon President Young. Brother Lyman was there. We then Called into the 
Historians office a short time. I then went home. 

27 President Young in Company with several of the Brethren visited The Camp of the 
missionaries to organize them. I spent a part of the day in the office. I sowed Carriots & Peas. 
Lorenzo Snow spent the night with me. 

28 Quite windy. I rode down to my field and spent the remainder of the day in the office. I met 
with the Twelve in the evening. 

29th Sunday I met with my Quorum in the morning. I opened by prayer. Henry Moon was mouth. 
I called upon Judge E. Smith with A. O Smoot & E F Sheet to get a protest printed against some 
irresponsible men who had advertised for a general Cattle drive. The Hand bills were soon stuck 
up around the City. I attended meeting at the Tabernacle & herd A Lyman preach in the morning 
Elders Mcallester & E Snow in the afternoon. I then Called upon Presidet Young & spent several 
Hours then returned home & spent the night. 

30 I Called upon Presidet Young in the morning & laid before him Eleanor Pratt account of the 
Death of Parley P Pratt and asked his advise about its being published in England. He said He did 
not wish it published but wished it retained in the office. 

We had the back mail Came in by an ox team which brought our papers which have been lying 
by the way side since last fall. 

The President & Twelve met at the Historians office to attend to the Blessing of the remainder of 
the missionaries. Presidents Young and Wells were present. All of the Quorum of the Twelve 
except E. T. Benson. G Q. Cannon was present. O. Hyde O. Pratt & A Lyman Blessed four 
persons & set them apart for there mission. Presidets Young & Wells & John Taylor Blessed C. 
C. Rich & A. Lyman. President Young gave them a good Blessing. 

President Young made a Few remarks upon the subject. He said Brethren I want you to be so full 
of the Holy Ghost & the power of God when you get to England that I shall hear that you are so 
full of teaching & wise Council that it will run out of Both Comors of your mouth. He said you 
will find some men there that have some wisdom & some wisdom they have not got. Other 
remarks were made. 


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May 


May 1st I spent the day in the office. President Young Called into the office and spoke of Capt 
Gibson and of French who came in yesterday & said Capt Gibson owed him $20. He came on 
with him to this place. President Young said He did not believe that Capt Gibson owed him any 
thing. He believed Capt Gibson was an honest man & that he was honest in spirit. He is on a 
mission & one year will tell the tale. 

Wm. Hickman Called upon President Young al[lso?] a Johnson. They spoke of S. M. Blair spoke 
of the trial of Fumey. Word arived From Camp Floyd That Mr Coats the sheriff of Cedar County 
killed a man dead in self Defence that was supposed to have been a Mr Johnson who had 
threatened the lives of Blair & Ferguson the Editors of the mountaineer but it turned out to be 
another Man. 

Elders A Lyman & C. C. Rich with their Company took there leave of there Families & Friends 
this evening & started upon there mission. I planted my eem squashes in the evening. 

I am purusing Capt Gibson Narative of his arest siezure of his vessel & his imprisionment by the 
Dutch at the Indian Archipelago. It is vary interesting. It shows the cruelty of the Dutch and the 
little attention our government pays to redress the wrongs of her Citizens or maintain the honour 
of her Flag abroad. 

2d It is quite windy today. I spent the day in the office. 

3 I obtained some lime for Building a Chimney on the farm. I spent the day in the office. 

President Young Called into the office. Looked over the Book Containing his History in the 
Deserett Alphabets?]. He said if he had his way he would have all his business done in the 
Deserett Alphabet. He would do away with the English stile of writing. Then we would make ten 
Correct scholars to where we now have one. 

4th We have a vary windey day a vary dry wind. It looks like a gloomy spring, a dry Cold spring. 
The winter has killed all the fruit for this year except Curants Apples & Plums Peaches Apricotts 
& most of the grapes are killed, and many of the Trees, and it looks as though we would hardly 
raise a crop of grain this year. 

A Brother Charles G Parkingson arived From Cash valley and reported that the Indians were vary 
hostile. Had stolen some 40 horses. He brought a letter to President Young. I went to his office & 
herd it read. It was From Bishop Maughn. He stated that the Indians had Stolen some $1,500 
dollars worth of Horses of late & were vary mad. The Brother of Washakah was there & was mad 
at the Indians for Doing so. Brother Benson was about to ordain 2 Bishops more to preside over 
the several Branches. There was an organization of 200 men to be ready at a moments warning to 
follow the Indians in a moments Notice day or Night in case of Necessity. It was [Web?]er Tom 
who was at the bottom of it. 


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I Called at the News Office. Judge Smith said a boy about 1 1 years old was on the prairie west 
side of Jordon Hunting Horses. A man rode up to him with a veil over his Face and told him to 
give him the dinner which was tied on the back of the mule behind the boy. The boy said he 
would not give it to him. He then drew a dirk & stabed the mule in the sholder 3 time Caught 
hold of the boys dinner and yerked it off from the saddle and rode away with his Horse Covered 
with Foam. He was probably a thief associated with a gang of villians who was stealing horses & 
Mules. 

5 We had a Cold night a Cloudy day. S. M. Blair & J. Ferguson Called in to see us a short time. I 
called upon Presidet Kimball. He was not at home. Had gone out for a ride. I Called to see Elder 
Hyde build a stone Barn. The Eastern Mail Came in. Brought many Papers. 

6th Sunday I met with my Quorum at 9 oclok. Bishop Hoagland prayed. A. O. Smoot was mouth. 
I attended the meeting at the Tabernacle. G. B. Wallace Preached in the forenoon & O. Pratt in 
the afternoon. I took supper with Franklin Woolley & Preached to the 13 ward. It was a vary 
stormy night. It snowed all night. 

7th There is quite a body of snow on the ground. All the Fruit & shade trees were loaded ready to 
break down with the weight of snow. I commenced to shake the trees & spent 2 hours in 
unloading the trees. Some broke down. It snowed till about 10 oclok & Cleared away. There was 
about 6 inches of snow upon the average over the earth this morning. I spent the day in the office 
reading letters. 

May 8th 1860 There was quite a Frost on the ground this morning. The ground was still white 
with snow still it will water the Earth & do much good. 

I spent the day in the office. Presidet Young Called into the office to look at his History with his 
Brother Phineas. He said that he had got an account of his Family From his sister Fanny. He 
thought he lodged it in the office but we could Find nothing of it nor have any recolection of it. 
Presidet Young said he had given Phineas Young a Job of ten thousand dollars seting out locust 
trees. He wanted one million set out. 

9 I rode with my Family down to my Farm. The grain looked well. I spent the afternoon the 
office reading letters. 

101 planted melons this morning. I perchased of Samuel Richards a work Called the route From 
Liverpool to Great Salt Lake City Illustrated price $9. 

I was informed that Jesse Johnson son in law of Samuel Snider, was killed on Tuesday May 8, 
1860 by an upright saw Fram. He shut down the gate with the crank up. While stooping down to 
look to see if somthing was not loose the Crank droped the upper part of the saw Frame caught 
his head & mashed it. He was buried on the 9th. 

Marion J Shelton arived today From the Moquitohes. I spent the day in the office. 


Page289 




Ill planted Beans this morning then went to the office and spent the day. It was vary windey and 
Cold. 

12 It Commenced hailing about 2 oclok this morning. It commenced snowing about 3 oclok and 
we had the hardest snow storm we have had this year. All the Fruit & shade trees were loaded 
down. Many of the Curant Buches broak down. I was laboring for 5 hours among my trees to 
keep them Clear of snow so they would not break down. 

I went to the office at 1 1 oclok obtained the mountaineer & learned that the Poney express arived 
last night 5 days From the States & Brought word that the Dimocratic Charlston Convention 
became divided and adjourned one part at Baltimore the other at Richmond. It has been said For 
many years that 1860 will be a vary Notable year. The signs of the times indicate that it will be. It 
is vary uncommon for snow to Fall 2 feet deep on the 12 May. It was quite Cold at night and a 
Frost which killed grapes & probably Apples. 

13 Sunday It snowed a short time this morning. It Cleared off & snow Melted all day. I spent the 
day at home. John Taylor & Gilbert Clements Preached. 

May 14 A Hard Frost last night. Every thing Frozen this morning grapes Apple Blooms & 
Curants were all drooping. It now appears as though we should have no Fruit of any Kind this 
season. The mountains Hills & parts of the valley are still covered with a white mantle. The mail 
Came in yesterday which we obtained to day which brought us a variety of papers. No News of 
importance. I spent the day in the office. There was a good deal of Fireing pistols in the night. 

151 examined my Garden this morning. I find the Frost & snow has damaged me much. A 
Plesant day. Robert went to the Field to plant Potatoes. I had the sick head ake. I Called upon 
President Kimball. He was getting better. Had been quite sick. 

I learned to day the fireing of pistols Commenced at T D. Browns. His son was struck on the 
head with a pistol which went of. The roans name was Miller. He Fled away followed by James 
Alread who overtook him. Told Miller He was prisioner. Miller drew a pistol to shoot him But 
James Alread got the first shot & shot him through the Breast but it was thought not mortal. 

16 I spent half a day in the office. The Following is a Copy of A Vision which two Brethren had 
while sitting up with the Corps of Elder John Brown who was killed by a Rock May 3d 1860. ^ 

Testimony of Jeremiah Stokes and William Green 

"I was setting up with the Corpse of Elder John W. Brown about 3 oclok in the morning (Friday 
May the 4th 1860) When I beheld a vary bright light hovering near the door which Fronts to the 
west. Near the top of the door on the left side was a Crown shineing Brilliantly below was a 
Circle of 12 stars also vary bright and Beautiful. On the left was a representation of Br Browns 
Coffin. On the right lower down was a large Stone the Express image of the one that killed 
Brother Brown. This light remained without Changing its position one hour and a half. There 


Page290 




were two Candles burning in the room but the light far surpassed there Brilliancy. 

Brother William Green was also present and testified that the above is Correct and Adds "I saw 
the light before Brother Stokes and previous to seeing the light on the door I saw on the lid of the 
Coffin two small looking glasses vary Clear & bright set in Stone. In a moment more I saw 
Brother John Brown standing on the opposite side of the Coffin. He looked as he did when found 
after his death. He soon disappeared and then I saw the light on the door. 

John R Young wrote this testimony From their mouth. 

17th 1860 I was unwell but I dug a little in my Garden. Planted 100 Hills of Exelsor sweet Com. 
Then went into the big field. Helped to plant sugar Cane. 

At about 1 1 oclock On Main street [ ] Johnson and T $ $ T Myron C Brewer were both shot 

dead. They were Carried to the dead House about 12 oclok. They were both shot through the 
sholder. They were both Desperate wicked men. 

18th [sz'c?] I went down to see the two dead. They were both large stout men. Johnson had 5 Ball 
holes passed through his sholder into his body. One ball lodged under the skin in the left side. 
Brewer had several ball holes through the sholder into the body. The upper part of the sholder 
was Carried away. It is not known whether they shot each other or whether they were shot by 
other men. 

I spent a part of the day in the office. 

181 was unwell and spent most of the day at home. 

191 went into the Field and assisted in finished planting my Com. 

20 Sunday I was quite unwell & spent the day at home mostly. I met with my Quorum in the 
morning. The Eastern Mail Came in which brought us a number of Papers. My Daughters Susan 
Cornelia * (who married Robert Scholes) was taken in labor at 2 oclok PM & Continued in 
severe labor till 3 oclock when she had a Daughter bom 20 minutes to 3 oclock Monday morning 
May 21 1860 . 

2 1 Susan & babe was quite Comfortable this morning. I felt quite unwell having been up all 
night. I spent a part of the day in the office. 

22 I rode to Fort Harriman with Robert For the purpose of shearing our sheep. 

23 I had my sheep sheared today 85 in number. We also washed them all in a Barrel of Strong 
brine of salt & water for the scab. I also washed 50 Lambs. We were quite weary at night. 

24 We loaded up our wool and started for Home whare we arived at 1 oclok. I spent the 
afternoon in the office. President Young was in the office a few days since on the 17 while 
speaking of Joseph Smith & his party who had appointed a Conference to be held in June He said 


Page291 




that party would not accomplish any thing against us But the Lord would accomplish] all that He 
intended. The Express arived From Calafornia. 


25 I Called into Presidents Young office. G.A.S. was present. The Express arived From 
Calafornia Bringing a report that Indians have Commenced war upon the whites & have killed 
sixty men somewhare about the sink of the Carson. They have broaken up the mail Stations on 
the middle route From Camp Floyd to Carson & have killed some of the men one of the 
Streep [an/er?] Boys who lived in the 14 ward. The Mail Carriers & Mail is said to have been 
destroyed. The Express Boy was also shot at who brought word. 

The Eastern Express also arived this Morning 5 days From St Joseph’s & News 6 days From 
Washington. 

President Young got a letter From Capt Hooper saying that the Bills to organize Five New 
Territories was rejected in the House. The Homestead Bill was killed in the senate. Abram 
Lincoln of Illinois was nominated By the republican Convention For President & Hannibal 
Hamblin of Maine For Vice President. The ship Tapscott was Chartered by the Saints in 
Liverpool to bring 700 Saints to New York. Asa Calkings will Come with them. 

26 I spent half a day planting Corn & Beans in my garden. 

27th Sunday I met with my Quorum in the morning. I was unwell & did not attend meeting. 
Samuel Richards & John Taylor Preached in the forenoon. 

I spent several hours in the Presidents office with Presidents Young & Wells & Carrington. 
President Young said that the thought the great cry of the Indian war in the west was more a 
matter of speculation than a reality. They made all out of it they posibly Could in order to get a 
population and to get an armey there so as to get some money in Circulation. Presidet Young 
spoke of Going to the soda Springs. Give me an invitations to go with him. 

/28/ Mrs Woodruff was quite sick. I laid hands upon her. We had a fine rain last night. 
Everything looks Fresh & green this morning. I spent the day in the office. 

In the evening I Blessed Eugenia Amelia The Daughter ^ of Robert & Susan Cornelia Scholes 
The ownly Grand Child I have ever had which makes me a Grand Father and it also places in my 
house Four living Generations at the same time a circumstance which seldom happens viz My 
Father, Myself, My Daughter & my Grand Daughter. 

The Eastern Mail arived this afternoon. Brought some papers. 

29th Mrs Woodruff has been quite sick for several days with a severe cold upon the lungs with a 
Cough. It is quite a growing time. 

30 A Plesant day. The Calafornia Mail arived last evening. I spent the day in the office. 

3 1 A Plesant day. I spent the day in the office. 


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June 


June 1st I spent the Forepart of the day in my garden the afternoon in the office. Rees William 
was killed with a Buz saw in Little Cotton wood Canyon. 

2d I Called into Presidet Youngs office in the morning and spent most of the day in the office 
reading letters. I met with 3 of the 12 for Prayer. 

3d Sunday I met with my Quorum in the morning and attended meeting at the Tabernacle. 
Presidents Young & Kimball preached in the morning also Brother Holladay. All the Presidency 
preached in the afternoon. Presidents Young gave a great deal of good teaching & instruction as 
well as the others. I preached in the Evening at the 14 ward school House and spent the evening 
at Presidet Youngs office. The mail Came in today. 

4 We obtained the mail to day. I learned that Dr Hickman Brother to Wm. Hickman was shot 
dead through the Head at Pikes Peak. I am preparing to go North with the presidet this morning. 

Presidents Young Kimball & Wells with a large company with about 30 Carriages & waggons 
started For Cash valley. Soon after we started it began to rain and it rained for some two hours. 
We drove to Farmington & spent the night. I spent the night with Ezra Clark. 16 miles. 

5 We rode to Branch Creek & nooned, then proceeded to Ogden & Camped. I spent the night at 
Aaron Farr's with J. Taylor & J. Horn. The Encampments was Formed in the yard of Bishop 
West. The Presidency stoped with Bishop West. Distance 24 miles. 

6 We visited Bishop Wests Tanery. We then started For Box Elder whare we arived about 4 
oclok. I dined with the Bishop and spent [the night ] with Brother Lorenzo Snow. He has a fine 
location a good grist mill & Saw Mill & the best dwelling house in the city and the best garden in 
the North Country. We held a meeting with the Saints in Box Elder. President Young Preached 
Followed by President Kimball. 

7 We left Box Elder & passed through the Eastern Canyon into a small valley whare the surplus 
stock is kept. We then passed into another small valley whare there was a shallow lake Covering 
about 100 acres with stock water good range & grass but no stock in the valley. We then rode 
over into Cash valley, & stoped for the night at wellsville 18 1/2 miles from Box Elder. This is 
the First time I was ever in Cash valley. A Public Dinner was got up for the Company. After 
dinner The Presidency walked out on a Bench & Located the public square. We had a meeting at 
6 oclock. Prayer By E. Snow. President Young spoke to the People in a vary Edifying manner. I 
spent the night with Brother Ames. Also Brother Taylor stoped with me. Wellsville is the largest 
settlement in the valley containing 555 population 133 men 861 1/4 acres of wheat &c. 

8 We drove to Logan 10 1/2 miles then to Smithfield, 8 3/4 miles, then to Richmond, 5 miles, 
Then, to Franklin, 6 3/4 miles. Total 30 1/2 miles From Wellsville to Franklin. 30 1/2 miles as 
given by J. W. Foxx Rhode Ometer. We spent the night in Franklin. I made my bed for the night 


Page293 




on the ground & found myself in the rain in the morning. We Camped all together. 

9 A rainy morning. The People were Called together For a meeting at 10 oclok. Prayer By Joseph 
Young. President B. Young then said I will propose a little Business. I leam there is no Bishop in 
this place though three men have been chosen as a Council to preside. I would like to know the 
feelings of the people here about a Bishop. Brother Maughan moved that President Young 
Nominate a Bishop. President Young said I will nominate Br Preston Thomas to officiate as 
Bishop of this place. It was Carried unanimously. He was going to the Soda Springs to Settle but 
I wish him to stay here and be your Bishop. 

Presidet Young said I am going to propose that you go to work & build you a Strong Fort a 
stockade if nothing Els for your safety & protection. Also make a stockad outside of your fort for 
stock & hay & grain and stack your Hay in such a manner that if the Indians set fire to a Stack of 
Hay that they may not bum you all up nor any thing except the stack set on fire. It is better to 
have a little Hay burned up then to have a city burned up. 

I wish to say a word about the thieveing that is going on in this Territory. I say stop this Stealing 
that is going on here and if you Cannot Stop it in any other way stop it by stoping their breath. I 
would say the best way to stop both white & red men From stealing is to take them with a write 
of Habeas Corpus by led from the muzzle of a gun. That will settle matter & stop all Expens. 

When an Indian steals your property you want to kill him while he has been taught to steal all his 
life. But you will let the white man go who has always been taught not to steal & he knows 
better. This stealing must be stoped. I would rather men would not be killed. I would Chuse to 
have them quit stealing or leave the Country but I want Stealing stoped & it must be stoped. We 
have rode Day [and] night to save our stock from thieves to no purpose and if they will Continue 
it after all the warning they have had Just leave them whare they are Found with your property. 

At the Close of the meeting President Young Ordained Peter Maughn Preston Thomas to the 
office of a Bishop. At the Close of the meeting we drove to Richmond. On the way Erastus Snow 
broke down his waggon. We lashed it up & dr[ag?]ed one wheel to the next settlement whare it 
was mended. 

We held a meeting at Richmond. President Young Prayed Then addressed the Saints. G. D. Watt 
reported all the sermons. President Young said I want you to build a substantial stockade or Fort 
so that 10 Indians will not massacre the whole place. He went on to show them the danger they 
were in. 

At the Close of the meeting we rode to Logan. 20 miles. In Company with Elder Taylor I spent 
the night with Brother Steel. 

10th Sunday We have a rainy day. We held a meeting in a bowery. We had a large assembly 
From the various Settlements. Meeting Commenced by singing & prayer by John Taylor. All the 
Presidency was present Also W Woodruff J. Taylor E. T. Benson, L Snow, & E Snow of the 


Page294 




Twelve. President Young addressed the people, and said I Contemplate the scene before me with 
a great Deal of Satisfaction. (Tears were in his Eyes.) This assembly herd the gospel while 
scattered among the various Nations of the Earth. And through the means of that gospel you have 
been gathered together in these valleys. It is a novel sene. We are here piled together in one place 
with all our imperfections and traditions and if you are not what you ought to be you are the best 
there is. He gave much good Council & was Followed by Presidet Kimball who bore testimony 
to what had been said. 

In the afternoon Lorenzo Snow open by Prayer. Joseph Young spoke to the people Followed by 
John Taylor. We had a rainy night. Brother Taylor and myself spent the night at Brother Steels. 

1 1 A rainy morning. Several of the Brethren Cought some Fine trout. We rode to Wellsville. We 
held a meeting in the Evening. Elder Wells spoke about Herding not to send out Children alone 
to be killed by the Indians. He was followed by Erastus Snow who spoke of building up Zion. 

President Young followed. Spoke upon the subject of prayer also the productions of the valley. 
He said it was folly to ask the Lord to assist us to live our religion when we had the gospel of 
salvation and the Holy Priesthood and it was our fault if we did not live our religion for we had 
the means of doing so in our hands. It would be like our sitting down to a great feast & then ask 
the Lord to Feed us. 

Elder Taylor & myself spent the night at Brother Ames. 

12 A plesant morning. We left wellsville & rode over the mountain to Brigham City whare we 
arived at 3 oclock. Elder Snow made a short speech to the people. Said the people were Cooking 
for the Camp. They would give us the best they had. The Presidency with their families took 
there meals with Elder Snow & President Young spent the night with him. I spent the night with 
him. 

President Young told the following drem which he had last night. He said I dreamed that I was in 
a room with Phineas Young and I saw a smooth faced young man setting beside him. I asked 
Phineas who it was. He replyed this is the saviour. (I did not believe it.) I smiled and said I 
wonder if he is the saviour. Phineas said he was. I then asked the person if he was the Savior. He 
said he was. I asked him if [so] how long have you been here? He said 14 days. I said have you a 
wife? He said yes this is my wife pointing to a woman dressed in black with a thick dark veil 
over her face. Said this is my wife. I thought it a funny idea. I felt that I wanted to prove him. 
Soon the woman vanished and he turned into a woman himself. Then I awoke and the thought 
Came to me that it was a representation of young Joseph & Emma Smith who had undertook to 
Esstablished a Church but it was upon fals ground & principles in oposition to the true Church of 
Christ. I was satisfied he was not the saviour. 

^ I received a letter from Mrs Woodruff who stated that sister Cunningham was quite sick & 
wished to know when he was Coming home. Brother Cunningham was anxious to start for home 
immediately But President Young told him he would not advise him to do it. "My feelings are 


Page295 




that she will be better and on his return home next day he found it to be so. 

President Young spoke of the order of the travelling Camp. Said he had never seen a Camp move 
with greater order and Decorum. There was no organization yet evry man took his place & kept it 
and all had moved in perfect hannony & with a good Spirit which showed the improvemet of the 
Saints. 

13 We rode to willard Creek & held a meeting with the people. President Young Prayed & spoke 
to the people a short time. He said we are still mormons or more properly speaking Latter Day 
Saints. We are not going to the Moon or any of the planet for our Heaven but we shall make it 
here on Earth. None will ever be Condemned Except those who have the privilege of hearing the 
gospel and reject it. It is said that the Nations of the Earth that forget God will be turned into Hell 
but how can a people forget God that do not know him? This people are improving. You may say 
we have a good many rowdies among us. How is it with you? Are you doing right? If so you will 
practice honesty." 

He then spoke of our duty to build up Zion & beautify the Earth. "If we have the spirit of Zion we 
will build the best Houses make the best gardens & the best improvements we can for if we will 
not be faithful over temperal things who will intrust to us Eternal riches? 

President Kimball followed and bore testimony. President Young then said I wish you to move 
this public road East of the City to its old place, and improve this place. 

At the Close of the meeting we rode to Ogden. At 3 oclok I dined with Christopher Layton. Had 
lamb & green peas for dinner We held a meeting in the Ogden Tabernacle at 3 oclock. This is a 
splendid Hall. It is 100 by 50 feet. It will seat some 1,500 people. It was fdled & many Could not 
get in. This is the largest Hall in the Territory except the Salt Lake City Tabernacle. Many 
women had children who were crying vary loud which made it hard speaking. 

E. T. Benson opened the meeting by Prayer. President Young spoke at length. "He said there 
never was a time nor never would be when there would not be worlds in existance like this 
peopled with human beings passing through a probation like unto our selves. This Continent is 
the place whare Christ will make his appearance the second time and last time and the Kingdom 
is ours Eternally. 

We will live to see the day that we shall be delivered from our Enemies and the wicked thieves 
that now infest us & I will say to those Characters who are detennined to steal & do wickedly to 
go it while you have a Chance for your time is vary short. All those who have fallen of late in this 
Territory were worthy of Deth & met there reward Except Brother Cook who was killed while in 
the path of his duty. 

President Kimball followed after president Young spoke 3/4 of an hour. D. H. Wells followed & 
bore testimony to what had been said. At the Close of the meeting I accompanied President 
Young to Bishop Wests Tannery. I spent the night with Brother Benson at Brother Farrs. 


Page296 




14 We drove to Kays Creek. I dined at Brother Laytons instead of the day previous. We held a 
meeting at the bowery. President Young spoke a few moments. Brother Kimball spoke a few 
words and then bid them good by and we rode home to Great Salt Lake City & I spent the night 
with my family Having travelled to & From Cash valley 200 mils. 

151 spent the day in the office. I met with a prayer Circle in the Evening. 

161 spent the day watering my garden. I was vary weary at night. I met with the Twelve in the 
Evening. O Pratt Prayed. E T Benson was mouth. 

17 Sunday I spent the day at home. My Quorum met in the morning. Bishop Hoagland Prayed. 
Brother Moon was mouth. 

181 spent the day in the office Journalizing. The Eastern mail Came in & Brought us some 
papers but little News. 

19 I spent the forenoon diging up my dead peach & Almond trees killed by the severe frosts last 
winter. It was the most singular winter I ever Experienced in any Country. For weeks we were 
visited with a dark Cold hoary frost whch would load the trees like a snow. It killed nearly all the 
fruit buds in the Country and entirely killed many of the trees. We will have but little fruit this 
season except Curants & a few Apples. 

I spent the afternoon in the office. G A. Smith Started for Cash valley about 1 oclok to day with 
Brother Chrisman. 

20 I put up a rough shed Joining the back side of my ketchen for a shade. In the afternoon I 
visited my farm. I found my wheat oats potatoes Com & sugar Cane looking vary well. My 
Hungarin grass was injured by the frost. 

I called at the office in the evening. I recieved a Copy of the patent office report on Agriculture. It 
was sent By Capt Hooper. It is a useful work. 

211 spent the morning in triming out the dead wood from my peach trees and the afternoon in the 
office. I spent the whole night in watering my garden. 

22 I spent the forenoon Choreing. I visited President Kimballs oil Mill. It will be ready to run in 
few weeks. I spent a part of the afternoon in the office. 

23 I rode to Fort Harriman and spent the night. 25 mils. 

24 Sunday I preached at Fort Harriman and Blessed 2 Children. 

25 I went up into the Canyon with Wilford & Moroni & got a load of wood. 

26 I returned home to day & spent the evening in the office. 


Page297 




27 I spent the forenoon watering garden the afternoon in the office. 


28 President Young Called in the office in the morning & herd history read for 2 hours. President 
Young ordered the old Bowery rebuilt. 

Presidents Young & Kimball returned to the office at 1 1 oclok. While reading the History in 
speaking of that point which says that Lyman Wight should be sustained in his office in the place 
of David W Patten [...] not to take his place Crown. President Young said this is the Case with all 
the Twelve. They will have their own Crown but not the Crown of an other who has died in faith 
& been faithful. 

They staid half an hour and went up the Canyon. I spent the day in the office. 

29 I spent the day in the office. President Young called at 1 oclok & herd some history red. 
Presidents Young Kimball & Wells & G. A. Smith went to Brother Blackhurst to take dinner. 

The Eastern Express arived at 10 oclk. 

30 I spent the forenoon in the office. I attended a party at Brother & Sister Blackhurst & took 
Dinner in the afternoon. Elders Erastus Snow & Family & F. D. Richards were present. 

I spent the night in watering my garden & reading the Doctrins & Covenants. I had a rich feast of 
spiritual things in Comparing the revelations of the Lord given to us 20 & 30 years ago with the 
present signs of the times. The Lord is begining to pour out his Judgments upon the American 
continent in fulfillment of his promises. 


July 

July 1st Sunday President Young delivered a vary interesting discourse to the people in the 
Tabernacle in the forenoon & President Kimball in the afternoon. I spent a short time with the 
presidet in his office & met with The Twelve in the prayer Circle there being present O. Pratt W. 
Woodruff (was mouth) John Taylor (Prayed) G. A. Smith E Snow & F D Richard. 

2d We received an Extra Mountaineer anouncing that Stephen A Douglass was nominated at the 
Baltimore Convention as a Candidate for the presidency. I sent 197 lbs of wool to the machine to 
be Carded. The Eastern Mail arived at 9 oclok this morning. I wrote } a letter to E R Young. I 
also wrote a letter to Capt Waiter M Gibson. 

July 3 I spent the forenoon in the office. In Company with R Campbell I visited Brother 
Mousleys School. He teaches upon the new principle of Chanting his lessons in Geography 
having procured large splendid maps for the same. He teaches a new system of mental 
Arithmetic. His whole system of teaching is the best I have ever seen. 

There is great preparation in this City for the 4 July. The signs of the times indicate war trouble 
& perplexity among the Nations. 


Page298 




4 At the rising of the sun we were saluted by the fireing of Cannon in selebration of the 
Indpendance of the United States. Bands of music paraded the streets & gave us a serenade as 
they passed. 

In the midst of this scene Emma was Confined & brought forth a daughter ? born 20 minutes past 
7 oclock. 

The City authorities escorted the Governor Cummings to the Bowery at 10 oclok amid the roar of 
Cannons. The Presidency & Twelve with some 4,000 Saints were gathered together on the 
occasion. The Chaplain O. Pratt prayed. Tunes from the various Bands Oration from Professer 
Carrington, Speech from Professor Pratt, a few w[ords?] from Govomor Cummings. Dismissed 
by the Chaplain John Taylor. Evening parties at the Court House & other places. 100 rounds of 
Cannon were Fired during the day. 

5 I went over Jordon in the morning. In the afternoon 1 rode with Brother Stockings 8 miles up 
Emigration Canyon to see a flock of French Merino sheep on the way to Calafomia. They were 
vary fine sheep. They asked from $100 to $150 each. 

6th Mr M C Cummings Brought a load of his French Merenoes to my Barn Yard for sale. 1 
Bought one of his best Bucks for $150. Brother A. O. Smoot Bought 1 for $125, 1 for $150, 1 
Ewe $100 2 lambs for $100. Making 5 in all for a Bay Stud Horse $475. 1 spent a short time in 
the office. 1 rode down to my fann in the Evening. 

7 1 received the mountaineer this morning, ft Contained an account of some awful Stonnes in the 
States killing people destroying towns & villages & dashing to peacs evry thing in its Course. 

I spent the forepart of the day in the office and the afternoon Choreing. 

July 8 Sunday I met with my Quorum in the morning for prayer. Wilford prayed. E. T. Sheets 
was mouth. 1 attended meeting at the Tabernacle through the day. President Young Preached in 
the forenoon & afternoon and spoke much to the Edification of the people. 1 spent a short time in 
his office in the afternoon. 1 met with our Quorum in the evening. Erastus Snow prayed. F. D. 
Richards was mouth. Mr M C Cummings stoped for the night with his Company In my lot. Had 
70 Horses, 50 sheep of full Blood French Mereno. 

9 Mr M C Cummings left this morning with his Company. I went over Jordon to Carry Br Aitken 
to my Grass lot to Cut my hay. I then went to the office & spent the day. 

101 rode down to the field in the morning. In the afternoon Wilford & myself went to my field to 
get some hay. It rained all the time we were rakeing it up and we left it & went home in the rain. 

Ill spent the forenoon Hunting my Cow and assisting Wilford to load sand for the school house. 

121 spent the day drawing Hay. Lorenzo Snow spent the night with me. 


Page299 




131 spent the forenoon watering & Budding and the afternoon in the Office. I Called upon 
President Young & read to him a Letter from Capt W. M. Gibson. President Young gave me an 
invitation to go up the big Cotton wood Canyon on the 24 July with my Family & Friends. 

141 spent the forenoon pruning dead wood out of my trees the afternoon in the office. 

15 Sunday I met with my Quorum in the morning. H Stout Prayed. Arza Hinkley was mouth. I 
attended meeting at the Bowery. J. W. Cumings spoke. Was followed by President Kimball, who 
spoke much to the Edifycation of the people. He was followed By President Young Who 
followed upon the same subject that Brother Kimball & Cummings had spoken upon viz the 
Judgments of God upon the present generation. 

President Young said that all that Had been manifest in our day in storms, pestilence, or 
Judgment was nothing more than a text in Comparason to the sennon the Lord will preach when 
the Elders have finished their missions among the Gentile and are gathered with the Saints to 
Zion. The Lord would open the Earth & swallow up such Cities as New York, Boston, 
Philadelphia, & other great Cities of the Nations and the sea would heave itself beyound its 
bounds and famines would spread not ownly over this Continent but it will spread & be felt in 
States, Nations, & Continents and the Saints will Close there Eyes upon the scene and their 
hearts will be filled with paine. Many remarks were made upon this subject. 

In the afternoon Bishop Hunter spoke also Presidents Young & D. H. Wells. I met with the 
Twelve at 8 oclok PM. O Pratt Prayed. W. Woodruff was mouth. 

161 spent this day in the Hayfield mostly mowing. 

171 Carted two loads of Hay to day Brother Walters was flung onto the Horn of his saddle while 
riding a young horse & mortally wounded. 

18 July 1860 * We had an Eclipse on the sun this morning. The greatest obscurity of the sun was 
about sunrise. 

Brother George Walters died this morning at about 9 oclock. Father Tattersal died yesterday 
some 85 years of age. He was an English Soldier at the battle of Waterloo. Was a prisioner in the 
hands of the French for several years. Nearly all died that was in the prision with him. He was 
buried today with military honors and a Band of Music. Brother Walters was also buried today. 

191 spent the day in the office in the forenoon. Afternoon watered garden. 

20 I spent the forenoon watering budding, afternoon History papers. 

211 budded peach trees in the forenoon. Spent the afternoon in the office. 

22 Sunday I took 10 of my family and with the Committee of arangements I went up to the big 
Cotton wood canyon & camped for the night at the Lake. Distance 30 miles. 


Page300 




23d Presidents Young Kimball & Wells arived to day with many others at the head waters of the 
big Cottonwood. I went to fishing in the morning on the Lake. Cought 18 trout. Many were 
fishing on the lake & many trout were caught. We had a hard rain in the afternoon. Most of the 
people in camp were wet as many were not prepared for a rain stonn. There was much thunder 
and lightning and vary heavy. People Continued to arive all day till dark. There were some 1,122 
persons present 1,122, 56 Carriages 163 waggons 235 Horses 179 mules 168 oxen. 

£ 24 This is the anaversary of the arival of the pioneers into this valley in 1847. There were 3 
large Boweries built with floors laid for dancing. Each floor would hold 6 Cotillions. I was 
Called upon by the Committee of arangments & opened one of the Cotillions parties by prayer. 
The day was spent in recreation such as dancing fishing and other amusements. 

A quantity of papers was brought to the presidency of the last Eastern mail which was read by A 
Carrington, giving an account of the arival of the great Eastern the success of Garabaldi in Sicily. 
A vary destructive Storm on the Irish Coast. Many lives & much shiping lost. Much political 
excitement in the States. Democratic party divided and appointed 2 sets of nomin[ees] for 
President & vice Presidet. 

We had Considerable rain during the day and night. Dancing was kept up till past midnight. 

25 The Company Commenced leaving the ground Early in the morning & Continued past noon. 
One of Presidents Youngs waggons was turned over into the Big Cotton wood. It turned twice 
over with two women & several Children. One woman was hurt in the sholder. One Child Came 
near drowning. We arived here bout 3 oclok. 30 mils. 

26 I went down into the field. I moved Susan Cornelia down to the farm house. It rained hard for 
two hours which was vary seasonable for the Crops. 

27 I Called upon President Young in the forenoon. All the Presidency were in the office. Presidet 
Young read me a letter from Bishop Maughn Stating that there had been a fracus with the Indian. 
The Brethren had taken a one eyed Indian prisioner for Stealing and several Indians Came down 
to liberate him. The Indian started to run & the guard shot him dead. The other Indians shot at the 
guard & killed a Brother Reed & mortally wounded Samuel Cousins through the lungs. The 
Indians then took to the mountains & found two Merrils getting wood. They shot Ira Merrill dead 
& his Brother badly wounded. They took some Indians prisioners. The rest gathered their forces 
& Came down to liberate them & they met 100 rifles. They then held a Council. The Indians then 
agreed to go & get those who had shot the white men & bring them in & put them to death & 
make pease. 

I spent the day in the office. 

28 A plesant Morning. I spent the day in the offices the forenoon with President Young, Wells, 
Carrington, & R. L. Campbell. A Carrington read the Conference minutes and a sennon of 
President Young delivered at the Conference in Nauvoo Oct 1844. The minutes of this sermon 


Page301 




was Compiled or written & furnished by Wm. Clayton which done great injustice to the subject. 

President Young gave a vary interesting and instructive discourse upon the organization of the 
Church the power of the priesthood the authority & duties of the various Quorums from the 
deacon to the presidency. But Brother Clayton in reporting it gave a small portion of the sennon 
in detached sentences which gave an Entire different meaning from what was intended. Hence 
President ? ^ Young had to remodle the sckeleton of the sermon before us. 

After the Prophet Joseph died the Question was asked how will the church exist and be governed 
now the Prophet is dead? Will the Twelve lead? If so can they get Revelation? President Young 
took up this subject & showed what the privliges were of all the Saints from the least to the 
greatest. All saints male and female have the privilege of revelation, of inspiration, the spirit of 
God the Holy Ghost. All saints should live in the spirit of revelation. 

A Priest after the order of Aaron holds the keys of the Administering of Angels. Will Angels 
administer to a man and visit him & not reveal any thing to him? No. Then if Priests can have 
revelation Cannot Apostles? Yes. Evry part of the Melchezedeck Priesthood from an Elder to the 
Presidency have a right to receive Revelations From the face of the Lord direct without the 
Administration of an Angel. 

Both Priesthoods are divided into classes as helps in the government of God. Elders Belong to 
the Melchezedek priesthood as Deacons & teachers do to the Aaronic Priesthood. High Priests 
are for Presidets to preside over different Branches & stakes to administer in all the ordinances of 
the Melchezedek Priesthood. 

The Seventies are special witnesses er & apostles to go into all the world to preach the gospel 
unto all Nations to Build up the kingdom of God & Esstablish churches in all the Earth under the 
direction of the Twelve Apostles. They should Call upon the High Priest to Come & preside over 
the Branches after they are built up. A Quorum of /70/ Apostles when united are Equal in 
authority to the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles. 

The Twelve Apostles or traveling Council are to be special witnesses of the name of Christ in all 
the world. They are Equal in authority in there decissions to the Presidency of the Church. They 
are to preside in all the world whare the three first Presidency are not. 

The three first Presidency Preside over the whole Church & administer in all the ordinances of 
the Church which Consists of a Presidet & his two Councellors. 

The President of the Church holds the keys of the sealing powers & his Council act in Concert 
with him [in] all things. 

Should the Presidency die The Twelve Could organize another Presidency & should the 
Presidency & Twelve all be slain the Seventies being Equal in power & Authority to the Twelve 
or first Presidency Could organize both Quorums. 


Page302 




A Bishop has two Councellors. There is no difference in the authority of his Councillors. The 2d 
has as much authority as the first. A Bishop should have his Councilers with him on the trial of a 
case in order to make it Legal as it takes three to make a Quorum. 

The High Priest Could organize the Church in all its parts if all other Authorities were dead for 
they have the Melchezedek Priesthood out of which grow all of the Higher offices of the Church. 

An Apostle is the highest office in the Church & kingdom of God. Joseph Smith was a Prophet 
Seer & Revelator before he was baptized or ordained to the Aaronic Priesthood or had any 
Authority to administer one of the ordinances of the house of the Lord. He was afterwords 
ordained to the Aaronic Priesthood then to the Melchezedek Priesthood & Apostleship which is 
the highest office in the Church & kingdom of God on Earth. When a man is ordained to the 
Apostleship & keys thereoff if he dies in faith He will hold those keys to all Eternity. All the 
Prophets Patriarchs & Apostles who ever did or ever will hold the keys of the Apostleship if 
faithful unto death will hold them forever. 

Presidet Young was an Elder when he was ordained to be one of the Twelve Apostles. Some 
asked the Question how He could officiate as an High Priest not having previously been ordained 
a High Priest. Joseph Said the Apostleship covered all the offices of the High Priesthood the 
same as a private member ordained a High Priest Could officiate as a Deacon Teacher Priest or 
Elder. 

Presidet Young said "I ordained most of the two or three first Quorums of the Seventies and 
Joseph gave me vary particular instructions to ordain them all High Priests which I did. When a 
man is ordained an High Priest Seventy or one of the Twelve He Can officiate in all the lesser 
offices of the Church whether He has been ordained to that office or not. 

When I met with the Saints in Nauvoo at the first meeting after Josephs death in defending the 
true organization against Sidney Rigdon I had it in my mind all the time that there would have to 
be a Presidency of three Appointed but I knew the people Could not bear it at the time and on our 
return as the pioneers from the valley I Broached the subject first to Brother Woodruff and 
afterwords to the rest of the Quorum. They received it & finally sustained it. 

I spent the afternoon in the office Journalizing. 

29th Sunday I spent the day at the Tabernacle. N H Felt spoke in the morning. I followed him. 
President Young spoke in the afternoon. Presidet Wells said a few words at the Close of the 
forenoon. He said he wished the Brethren to save all their wheat. I met in the Evening with the 
Quorum of the Twelve in our Prayer Circle. Presidents Young & Wells were also present. Elder 
O Hyde Prayed. Presidet Young was mouth. 

30, 311 spent the time in the Harvest Field & hailing Hay. 


Page303 




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August 

Aug 1st, 2 & 3 I spent the time Harvesting wheat. I have 8 Acres of wheat and I think the best 
Taos wheat I have ever raised. I ploughed my land deep & put on 120 lbs of seed wheat to the 
Acre. I washed the wheat Clean s[ku?]m off all light wheat then limed it & sowed it draged the 
land thoroughly then rolled it & I think I will have 50 Bushels of wheat good & Clean without 
Smut to the acre. We had a hard rain Storm in the evening. 

4 We spent the day hoeing. I attended a Meeting of the D A & M Society at Candle light at 
Bishop Hunters. 

Aug 5 Sunday I met with my Quorum in the morning. A. O. Smoot Prayed & L W Hardy was 
mouth. The subjet was spoken off about Jason Luce & Lot Huntington & their party 
overpowering the Poliece & Jeter Clintons Court one day during the past week. The Mayor will 
take the matter up to morrow. 

President Young Preached in the forenoon a powerful discourse. He spoke vary plain with regard 
to the Gentiles. He followed Brother Bywater & H. C. Kimball all of which spoke much to the 
Edifycation of the people. 

I attended the meeting in the afternoon & herd President Young deliver one of the most Edifying 
discourses I ever herd in my life. His subject was "what are the pleasures of life." He spoke of 
Eating & drinking as being two of the greatest pleasurs of the worlding but that pleasure ownly 
lasts while he is swallowing. He nomanated the various pleasures and a person would soon be 
saciated in any of them but if a man Enjoyed the spirit & power of God, the Holy Ghost and the 
gift of Eternal Life it was like a living well of water within him. He was Happy all the time. 


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I went home with President Young & took supper with him. I also had a social Conversation with 
D. H. Wells. The Twelve did not meet in the Prayer Circle as there were none of the Quorum in 
the City Except Erastus Snow & myself & Brother Snow did not Come. In Conversation with 
President Young He said in speaking of the Twelve their business was to preach the gospel and 
they ought to be abroad preaching. 

Aug 6th 1860 I spent the day watering my Garding. I threshed & Cleaned up 3 patches?] of 
Polan Oats from 3 oz of sowing. I was taken with a severe sore throat and went to bed sick and 
had a sick night. 

7 & 8 I was quite sick abed with an Influenzia. 

9th I am some better to day. I spent the day in the office Journalizing and Compiling History. 
Brother Jaques & myself Commenced Jan 1849. 

10 A warm day. A company of 30 wagons of L. D. Saints from various parts of the world arived 
last night. 

Ill spent the day in the office Compiling History. 

12 Sunday I attended meeting at the Tabernacle. J. V. Long Preached in the morning, T B. H. 
Stenhouse in the afternoon followed by President Young. I dined with Presidet Young and spent 
the evening with him 

131 rode to Fort Harriman & spent the night. 

14 I mowed 3/4 of an acre of Hungarians grass in the forenoon. Wilford assisted me to rake up 
the Hay in the afternoon. 

15 We stacked up our Hay went to the canyon visited our stock got up a load of wood. 

161 took a load of Cedar Posts & returned to the City. Distance 50 mils. 

17 I went to the office. Met with G. A. Smith who returned from the South on Tuesday the 14. 

We Called upon Presidet Young. I spent the day in the office Journalizing. 

18th I watered my garden in the forenoon & I spent the afternoon in the office. 

19 ? Sunday I met with my Quorum in the morning. Brother Pugmire prayed. J. M. Moody was 
mouth. 

I attended meeting at the Tabernacle. Andrew Moffitt spoke first in the morning upon the state of 
the feelings of the people in the States. They were not willing to acknowledge the hand of God in 
any thing but believed a great Revolution is at the door of the Nation. Hon Wm. H. Hooper 
followed and gave an account of his mission to Washington the state of the Nation, & public 
Feeling, his own feelings in monnonism, his trusting in God. He was followed by H. S. Eldridge. 


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He spoke of his mission. Was blessed in his business &c. He was followed by President Young 
who said He was Satisfyed with the missions of the Brethren. They had done their duty. He bore 
testimony that what they said was true. He spoke of what was approaching this generation. 

In the after noon George Q Cannon spoke lengthy. Gave an account of his Journey the dealings 
of the Lord with him, the State of Society. The spirit of the Lord is withdrawing from the Nation 
& they are walking in thick darkness. President Young followed and expressed his feelings upon 
a variety of things. 

\ Presidets Young & Kimball with O. Pratt W. Woodruff J. Taylor G. A. Smith E. Snow F. D. 
Richards & G. Q. Cannon of the Twelve met for Prayer when the following conversation took 
place: 

President Young said the people of the United States had sought our destruction and they had 
used every Exertion to perfet it. They have worked through the masonic institution to perfect it. 
Joseph & Hyrum Smith were Master Masons and they were put to death by masons or through 
there instigation and he gave the sign of distress & he was shot by masons while in the act. And 
there were delegates from the various lodges in the Union to see that he was put to death <and [-] 
them>. I hope to live to see the day when I can have power to make them do right. They have got 
the blood of the prophets upon their heads & they have got to meet it. 

When President Buchannan & the U.S. Government sent Col Johnson & the U.S. Army to Utah 
it was with the Express purpose to destroy the Church & kingdom from off the Earth to put to 
death this people. But the Lord sustained us & put them to shame & Confusion & to his name be 
the honor & glory. 

There are other Masons sent to this territory for the same purpose to Esstablish a lodge here & try 
to get an influence with some here to lay a plan to try to murder me 7 the leaders of the Church 
But they will not accomplish it. 

Now Brother L. N. Scovill thinks so much of masonery that he might Join in with them. G. A. 
Smith Said He does not wish to mix hair & wool but he would like to Go to England & obtain 
five Charters for lodges which would give us a grand lodge which would make us independant of 
all other Grand lodges in the world. This is what Brother Scovill would like to do and this Could 
be done but I do not think he would be willing to mingle with our Enemies to the injury of this 
people. 

President Young Said I have no doubt but that thing Could be done & we Could take our young 
men into the lodge but then I would aske what Good Could it do? What good Could result from 
it? I think no good at all. The truth is we have got to look to Lord God of Israel to sustain us & 
not to any institution or kingdom or people upon the Earth Except the kingdom of God and I ask 
no odds of any man or set of men beneath the heavens Except the Lord and his Saints. 

G Q Cannon said he was asstonished to Come back & see how cheerful & youthful the people 


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looked & Esspecially the presidency after p[assing?] through so much trouble. He said he had 
herd Numbers say afterword that there was some overruling providence that had sustained this 
people through the war and they Could not understand it. 

W. Woodruff said Brother Cannon Should have seen Presidet Young in the midst of the 
excitement when it was Expected evry hour that a message would arive with the tidings from the 
mountains that the blow was struck & blood had began to flow. Then Presidet Young was Calm 
& serene happy and Cheerful. The spirit & power of God surrounded him like a Halo of Glory 
and it would Comfort a mans heart to go into his presence. Many other remarks were made. 

President Young Prayed and asked the Lord for evry needful blessing upon the whole Church & 
kingdom of God in all there families & organizations. He prayed that God would overthrow our 
Enemies. Presidet Kimball was Mouth at the Altar & had much of the spirit & power of God in 
prayer. 

Presidet Young said in speaking g[et?] a grand lodge Esstablished in Utah that if we 
accomplished it It would have a tendency to bring down all hell upon us as far as they had the 
power. 

20th I spent the day Journalizing & Compiling. 

Aug 211 spent the fore part of the day Journalizing the afternoon Compiling History. Presidents 
Young & Kimball Called in & heard History read /Jan 1845/ for some two hours. Brother 
Cannon was also with us. Brother G. A. Smith Said that Brother Woodruff had done more to 
preserve the History of this Church than any man on the Earth. Brother Kimball said Brother 
Woodruff you have been inspired to write History & keep a Journal. 

22 I spent the forenoon hearing history read to G. A. Smith and [in] the afternoon Presidents B. 
Young & H C Kimball was present from 3 to 1/2 past 4 oclock one & half hour & herd history 
read. While speaking of the destruction by storm in the States Presidet Young said I wish the 
state of Missouri would take fire & bum up every thing except that which is pure & good. Then 
we Could go back for I went to go putty soon. We dont want to stay here long. 

23 I spent the day in the office Compiling History. 

24 I Budded some 50 wild plum stock with Mrs Sessions large seedling plum in the morning. I 
went to the office at 10 oclok & spent the time. I spent the forenoon in the office Compiling 
History the afternoon watering my Garden. It is vary hot weather. 

25 I spent the day Compiling History. 

26 Sunday I spent the forenoon in the office. Presidet Young preached in the morning followed 
by Erastus Snow. Presidet Young followed him. He spoke upon the vision & the different glories 
in the afternoon. I spoke to the people upon the subject of our Blessings & the dealings of God 
with us & our duty to our Children. I was followed by Presidet Kimball. 


Page307 




I met with the Presidency & Twelve at the Historians office. There was the presidency & O Pratt 
W Woodruff J. Taylor G. A. Smith Erastus Snow, & F. D. Richards of the Twelve present when 
we proceded to ordain George Quayle Cannon ^ unto the Apostleship and a member of the 
Quorum of the Twelve Apostles. Presidet Brigham Young was mouth which makes thirteen 
Apostles of the Twelve which President Brigham Young has ordained. Brother Cannons 
ordination & Blessing was reported by G. D. Watt. 

We repaired to the upper room for Prayer when President Young Called for the names for 
missions abroad, when 16 names was presented & Excepted. Among those names were Orson 
Pratt, Erastus Snow & George Q. Cannon of the Twelve & Richard Bentley & John L Smith 
from the office. Gilbert Clements was presented & Presidet Young said Cross his name of the 
List. When he goes to England let him go as an apostate. He will not have my Consent to go as a 
missionary. 

Brother Edington name was presented. President Young said I do not know what good he Could 
do on a mission unless he had more wisdom in preaching than he has in business matters he 
would not do much good. He is a nice man & would do well in fitting up a room for a party or a 
show but he would not be worth a groat on a mission. 

If Ever G Clements has a mission I want him to Feel like Brother Mills. A year ago he would 
have thought it a great Calamity to have been sent on a mission. Now he wants to go. 

Brother Kimball asked how it would do to send Dr Anderson on a mission. President Young 
asked what for? He is a vary nice plesant man but he is thorough Infidel in his faith. He had a talk 
with me upon the subject and honestly acknowledged that he had no faith in spritual things. "I 
want nothing said out of the council about this. He likes to live with this people & thinks we 
have the best organization in the world. 

President Young brought a figure upon this subject. He said if a man who had been alway 
acquainted with the tropical fruit was to meet with an Indian who had never seen or heard of the 
fruit the white men would say to the Indian do you not hanker for pi[n?]e apple, oranges & 
Banannas? The Indians say no I never saw any. I do not know what they are. It is so with Dr 
Anderson & other men. They have never tasted of the fruits of the spirit & power of God & do 
not know what it is and hence they have no faith in it. O Pratt Prayed & D. H. Wells was mouth. 

I Conversed with Erastus Snow F. D. Richards & G Q Cannon about giving up their History for 
the Church History. 

27 I spent the forenoon in Journalizing. President Young Called into the office at 12 oclok. It 
Commenced to rain about noon John Smith the Patriarch Called into the office. 

A Certain revelation was read to Presidet Young given to him May 28, [18]47 on Platt river in 
the pioneer Camp. He said record it & lay it away But not to publish it. I felt then as I do now 
when I fell to accuse any of the Brethren of any thing which they do not acknowledge. I feel that I 


Page308 




had rather be mistaken in my Judgment then to have them guilty of Evil. 

He refered to his teaching yesterday. He said there was a tender Jenn in every man which if 
rightly Cultivated would to be a God & a Son of God but it was vary tender. 

Presidet Young left at one oclok. Presidents Young, Kimball & Wells & John Taylor G. A. Smith 
& George Q Cannon with many others started at about dark for Provo. The Hand Cart Company 
arived at 5 oclock & Camped on the public square 9th ward with 43 Hand Carts & 6 waggon. 

28*1 arose Early in the morning and went to Brother Ellerbeck & bought 5 strawbury plants and 
paid $1 Each. I got one plant of Each of the following kinds: Victomtesse Harreart de Thury 
Wilsons Albany, Peabody, Hovey Seedling, Early Scarlet. I had the Hoockan before. I spent the 
day in the office Compiling History. We had a fine rain last night. 

29 A pleasant day. I spent the day in the office Compiling History. 

Aug 30, 1860 I spent the day the forenoon in the office Compiling History. The afternoon I spent 
at home. I was visited by Father [ ] Smith & his daughter Sister Whitney wife of Bishop 

Whiteney. Father Smith was 80 years of age. Was Bom & had spent his life in Connecticut. Had 
been in the Church near 30 years. He visited my garden, took supper with me and returned home. 

The Presidency Twelve & their Company returned home to this City at [ ] oclok to day. The 

Company Consisted of Presidents Brigham Young, Heber C Kimball, Daniel H Wells, and J 
Taylor G. A. Smith G. Q. Cannon of the Twelve & Wm. H Hooper, H. S. Eldridge G D. Watt H 
K Whitney J M Simmons Joseph A Young, Bryant Stringham, Brigham Young Jr Heber John 
Richards A Cunningham T MCCain R. T. Burton, L Sprague, A. Bullock Joseph J Taylor & A. 
M. Musser. 

The Company left Great Salt Lake City Monday evening 27 8 1/2 P.M. Drove all night. Arived at 
Provo at 5 oclock AM. 

28 Camped inside Tithing office Block. Presidency Boarded with Bishop Miller. At 4 p.M. a 
large assembly Came together when the Presidency spoke also G. Q. Cannon. Presidet made an 
arangmets to start [at] 4 oclok in the morning. 

29 Aug Started at 5 oclok. Arived at W[a?]lls ranch at 10 oclok A.M. Passed 2 trains of 30 or 40 
each of 6 yoke of cattle loaded with flour for Pikes peak Porter Rockwell Commanding one of 
the trains. Presidet direted Brother W[ake?]ll to take charge of the tithing in that place. The party 
dined at W[a?]lls. Passing through Heber City arived at Wm. H Kimballs at Parleys parks at Sun 
down. 

30 Left parley park at 9 A.M. Arived at Great Salt Lake City at 3 oclok. The road through Parleys 
Canyon is bad but the people are drawing large loads of wood. I spent the night watering my 
garden. 


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3 1 ? 21 1 ar ived at the office at half past 1 1 oclok A.M. I called at the President office. There were 
Present B. Young D H Wells G A Smith Lorenzo Snow F D Richards & A Carrington. Soon Gov 
A Cummings in Company with Capt Burton known as Ha[jae?] Burton Pilgrim to Mecca 
Explorer of Hurrur & discoverer of the great Central African Lakes. Gov Cummings introduced 
him to President Young & others. He stayed about one hour. He is Captain of the English Anny. 

Conversation turned upon Capt Burtons travels in India, Arabia & Africa. He spoke of his 
Explorations of two Lakes in Central Africa. He went all around the large lake 250 miles long 
about 100 wide. He found mud fish 6 feet long with out scales. He found Eels. He found large 
flocks of sea guls. The lake was 700 miles from the sea. He tried to sounded 400 feet without any 
bottom. There was no visible outlet to it, though there were several large streams runing into it. 
The water was not salt. This lake was surrounded with High Bluffs. 

He visited another Lake about 90 miles wide & over 100 long. This was not surrounded with 
Bluffs like the other. He did not go around this as it wood have taken 500 men to have fought 
there way through among the natives. He had but 150 men with him and the native Chiefs think 
any Stranger that visits them was out of honor to them & would not let them visit other tribes 
without a fighting for it. He came near loosing his life in a dugout on the large lake. 

In speaking of the Mahomitan religion He said it was not a new religion but a refermation of the 
Christian religion. Opium is sold in that Country for its weight in silver. There was a drug the 
people took which they received as a luxury. They would set Back to Back so as to not see Each 
others faces. If one sneezed all would Sneeze. He spoke of the Custom of the Druses. Their 
religion Caused them to bath often and they are temperate while many of the Christians of that 
Country are intemperate and filthy which Causes them to be weaker than the Druses which gives 
the Druses the advantage over the Christians in war &c. 

While speaking of the U.S. armey here Presidet Young said if Col Johnson had staid in this 
Territory a few years he would have known more than he does now. He planted his army in the 
Center of the Settlements so the people would protet his army from the Indians. If he had made 
his settlements in Cash valley he would have had an outlet. Gov Cummings said the anney did 
not Come out to protet the Emigration but to see you. 

I had an interview with Emanuel Murphy who has Just arived from Tenesee. David Patten 
Baptized him in Tenesee in 1836. 1 was present. He also Baptized his Brother Jeremiah who 
afterwards Apostitized & died. His wife Apostitized & started for Calafornia in 1846 & got lost 
in the Sira Vada mountains and most of the Company Starved to death and the living Cattle 
Dead. Mrs Murphy was Eat up & some of her Children. Two of her Sons were saved. 

Brother Emanuel Murphy has been a vary faithful Latter Day Saint. He visited Joseph Smith 
almost daily while in prision in Missouri. He liberated Erastus Snow out of Liberty Jail. He has 
done much for the Church. He took Supper with me this Evening also Lorenzo Snow. 


Page310 




September 

Sept 1 } I wrote a letter to the American Hydropult Company proposed to act as an agent for 
them in this Territory as I wanted one myself. I also wrote a Letter to the company of Cooks 
portible Evaporator. I spent most of the day in the office Compiling History. 

2d Sunday. In Company with G. A. Smith, Lorenzo Snow F. D. Richards I rode to visit James D. 
Ross Company, to hold a meeting with them at 1 oclok P.M. meeting opened by singing a swiss 
song there being about 100 swiss present. 

G. A. Smith spoke to the people in English which was interpeted to the swiss in their own 
language by Elder [ ] Bone[ll?]s. He gave them vary good Council. Told them to be faithful & 

live their religion, not to get Cheated by speculators nor to be in a hurry to get married to those 
men who profess to save women by the whole sale but wait untill you get acquainted with men 
and know that they are worthy and Capable of being saved themselvs. There is no hurry in these 
matters. 

He gave the same Council to those who Could understand English. Spoke of their Journey across 
the Sea & plains that was Calculated to bring out what is in you. Now go to & repent of all your 
sins & get rebaptized and live your religin. Some come here and expet all to be satisfied & perfet 
but they are not perfect themselves & they soon get dissatisfied. They look at the felings of others 
& do not look at there own. But you should go to & be united with those [who] serve God and do 
right & you will be satisfied. Dont be in a hurry to get rich, but do right and all will be well. 

When we first Came here the Country afforded us Nothing to Eat but black Crickets, ownly what 
we brought with us. You must prepare to turn your hand to any thing that is right in order to get 
along and dont be greedy to get too much land to begin with but what land you do Cultivate do 
well. You have Come a long way to be saved & to learn more of the work of God and I would 
advise you to stop in this City for a while, & hear the Presidency preach but I expect you will 
soon be scattered all over the Country. 

We have some of the worst men in the world among us and some of the best men. I know this 
work to be of God. Joseph Smith was a true prophet of God & he Esstablished this work in these 
vallies of the mountain. He bore a good testimony of the work of God. 

F. D. Richards followed & bore testimony of what G. A. Smith had said. He gave good advise to 
the people & was Followed by Elders Lorenzo Snow who bore testimony to what had been said 
& gave a good Exhertation to the Camp. Father Phineas Richards spoke. I followed & bore 
testimony to the good advise given By Elder G. A. Smith and of the work of God Esstablished in 
the Earth in this generation. We had a good meeting & the spirit of the Lord [was] with us. 

At the close of the meeting we bid them farewell & returned to the city and met with the 
Presidency and Twelve at the Prayer Circle. I opened by Prayer. G A Smith was mouth the first 
time he has Clothed for the Prayer Circle for nearly one year as he has had a sprained ancle, and 


Page3 1 1 




been vary lame. 

In speaking of Elder J. D Ross President Young said he stood upon a pivet & hardly knew which 
way to turn. He did not get quite money enough to apostitize. If he had got a little more money he 
would have gone overboard. 

President Young Conversed about the government sending the anny here to destroy the Saints. 
All the gentile merchants was Called into Council who were trading in Salt Lake and they all 
urged on the war Except Copening the mail Contracter. He said the report of Drummond was a 
lie about the burning [of] the Court Records & the Library. He said if the armey want to fight the 
Mormons they would have to winter in the mountains for the Monnons would not let them Come 
in & would fight them if they attempted it and it proved true. They were kept in the mountains. 

3 Capt Burton of the British Army Called upon Presidet Young who Conversed with him 
Conseming his travels in Arabia India & Africa his pilgrimage to Meca &c. I accompanied him 
over the Presidents house & while in the observitory he took Note & sketches of the City. I 
walked with him through the presidets garden & premises Blacksmith shop &c. He then visited 
the Historians office. G A. Smith gave him an outline of the Monnon war with the United States 
& a history of affairs for the Last 5 years in Utah. 

He is writing & publishing Extensively. He is a free noble minded man. He has traveled so 
extensively that he has Cast of that Cloak of prejudice and Superstition which most men have 
against all who do not embrace their own political & religious faith. He will tell the truth about 
all men & things as far as he Can obtain it. I gave him an invitation to Call upon me. 

We received the Eastern mail. We obtained paper & I got one [] good Letter from Capt Gibson 
who spoke of his travels in visiting the Saints in the Eastern Country. He wrote in a vary good 
spirit. 

4 I budded about 100 green gage plums into wild Stocks. I Cut about 500 buds of my best fruit 
for Lorenzo Snow to bud in his nursery. I paid $25 on my Territorial tax which was including 
County tax $51.90 City tax $20.60 x 14 ward school house tax $130. Total tax for 1860 $202.50. 

I spent my time in the office in the afternoon. 

On Sunday Evening while in Conversation at the Historians office a Brother Williams & another 
man Called to get Council of Presidet Young Concerning Brother Williams of Union Fort who is 
possessed of the Devil & has been in the mountains 60 days to try to starve himself to death but 
came home a living skeleton & finally Cut his throat & that did not kill him & he now wanted to 
drown himself. The men that Came for Counsel want the heads of the Church to unite to gether 
& Cast the Devil out of him. The President said if he wants to Cut his throat or drown himself let 
him do it. The devil is determined to destroy his body any how. If you want the devil Cast out 
you may go to work & Cast him out if you Can. I shall not go down there to do it. We have devils 
enough to deal with up here without going abroad after them. If the devils destroy his body they 
will get through with him. That will be the end of there work with his tabernacle. 


Page312 




Brother Cannon Said there was a learned Doctor [ ] that wanted to be baptized. Believed in 

this work but wanted to close up his business in New York City first. Said when he was baptized 
that He should lay aside his practice of medicine as he believed the Lord had provided means for 
the healing of his Saints without the practice of medicine. He is satisfied that the doctrin of the 
plurality of God and that Adam is our Father is a true doctrin Revealed from God to Joseph & 
Brigham. For this same Doctrin is taught in some of the old Jewish records which have never 
been in print and I know Joseph Smith nor Brigham Young have never had access to and the 
Lord has revealed this doctrin unto them or they Could not have taught it. 

President Young said if all that God had revealed was in fine print it would more than fill this 
room but vary little is written or printed which the Lord has revealed. When God restores the 
Priesthood and Apostleship he gives the keys to unlock the fountain of knowledge power & 
glory. When an Apostle is Called & ordained all the keys of the kingdom of God upon Earth are 
sealed upon him and God reveals his mind & will through that source to the Children of man for 
the government & salvation of the Children of man and he reveals much in evry age when the 
priesthood is upon Earth which is not written or printed. 

0 At about 3 oclock My Daughter Phebe wife of Lorenzo Snow was taken in Labor at 3 oclok. 
Was Delivered of a daughter at 15 minutes to 1 1 oclok. She is doing vary well herself but her 
daughter was supposed to be dead when born. The midwife put the Child in warm water and then 
in Cold breathed into its lungs. It remained without breathing for 30 minutes. It then began to 
breath and breathed quit freely but was vary feeble through the night. 

5 Phebe is quite Comfortable this morning. The child is vary feeble and it is quite difficult to 
keep life in it. At about 12 oclok the Child appeared dead. Sister Zina Young was present & took 
Charge of the Child. She breathed into his lungs & done all she Could and the Child soon revived 

6 soon nursed. I brought up Susan from the farm to nurs the Child. I Blessed the Child and 
Named it Mary Amanda Snow. Sister Eliza R Snow & Sister Zina Young spent the afternoon 
with us & sister Eliza all night. The Child lived till 9 oclock P.M. and then Breathed its last. 

Sister Eliza laid it out. 

{MS} 6 We buried the Child to day in my new lot No 7 Betwen J. M. Grants and Orson Hydes. 
President Young sent up a Carriage to the grave & several of his family went up to the burial. 
Phebe was taken with a severe Chill in the evening and had a sick night. 

7 } I wrote 2 Letters one to Lorenzo Snow and one to Capt Wm. [ Walter ] M. Gibson. I spent a 
part of the day in the office. 

8 Phebe rested Comfortable last night & is better this morning. President Young Called a short 
time in the afternoon at the office. 

9 I met with my Quorum in the morning. I opened by Prayer. Bishop Hunter was mouth. I 
attended meeting at the Tabernacle. G Q Cannon preached. Was followed by Capt Hooper & 


Page313 




Presidet Young. They all spoke in the power of God. 

In the Afternoon Presidet Young delivered a powerful discourse to Saint and sinner. } He 
Commanded the Elders who were going on missions in the name of the Lord not to Come home 
as merchants, or in Carriages, nor to Bring home any silk dresses or any thing Els to their wives 
or Children nor to ownly have 2 shirts & pants to be descent and all they bring home as wealth let 
it be men, women, & Children. Let it be spent in Emigrating the poor. Many have gone to get 
wealth for their families but I dont want this done any more. Now go to & gather the poor. 

J. D. Ross spoke a short time. The meeting was dismissed and all the missionaries were Called to 
meet at the Historians office at half past 4 oclok. At 4 oclok Presidet Young with the 
Missionaries met at the Historians office. He asked the missionaries if there was any one who 
Could not go. I do not wish to oppress any one. There are a plenty of Elders who are able & 
willing to go. No one excused himself. The names were then taken or Called over to know who 
Could fit themselves out and all were provided for. You Elders what do you think of the 
Commandment I give you? Let your Carriages be filled with old men and women and you pull a 
wheel barrow and if their is feble men & women put them in Hand Carts with springs and draw 
them in. 

Some of the Brethren Could not fit up & a Contribution was taken up to Fit them up. B Young 
$100 HCK $50 W Woodruff $25 John Taylor $60 F. D. Richards $30 D Spences $12 Fineas 
Young $10. Adjourned till 22d Sept at the 70 Hall for a Blessing meeting. All the Twelve should 
be present. 

Presidet Young made some remarks upon his Commandmets to the Elders. He said that every 
man that had gone out on missions and turned merchants there are not worth a groat. When they 
Come home they are empty in spirit and become beggerly poor. Brother P. P. Pratt began this in 
England and He was beggerly poor for years & Erastus Snow and F. D. Richards Came home 
merchants and they are poor and Orson Pratt came home in Carriages & with silks and satins and 
he is poor. 

He spoke in the power of God and sharply rebuked the Twelve & Elders for their spirit of 
speculation which they indulged in and when such Elders get home they have not the spirit of 
God in them. 

He was followed by George F. Hendry. Elders Erastus Snow O. Pratt, & H. C. Kimball all bore 
testimony to what Presidet Young had said was true. 

H. C. Kimball refered to P. P. Pratt being in merchandise and would not trust him $5 and 
Yearsley said that He would not trust H. C. Kimball nor God Almighty. We shall live while 
millions of such men are dead. He bore testimony in the power of God to what Presidet Young 
had said. He said that the Elders had been like blood suckers from Here to England and it is time 
for it to be stoped, and let the women alone & not be Corting them but let them alone. Many 
bring home women & want the president to soon seal a woman to him. This will soon kill him. 


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President Young then spoke to orson Pratt & said that the Book debt was the worst trouble the 
Saints had to Contend with for 6 years. Orson Pratt has done more to make that debt than any 
other man. So many Books are forced upon the people and they are forced to take them or they 
will not be fellowshiped. Now stop publishing & geting your portraits taken & fill the kingdom 
with them & make the people pay for them. This keeps the people poor and keeps them from 
Emigrating. 

Brother Orson Pratt had made some remarks saying that he had used his own means and not any 
of the means of the Church. He had got it all by his publications. President Young said it all 
Come out of the poor Saints Just as much as tho he had begged it. 

J V. Long reported President Young speech which pierced the bones & marrow and thoughts and 
intents of the Hearts of the Twelve Apostle and others who were present. He spoke the truth in 
the name of the Lord with great power & sharpness and He reproved the sins of the Twelve & 
others in a manner which made them feel by the power of God the necessity of walking uprightly 
before the Lord & to be free from all sins. 

At the adjournment of the meeting we repaired to the Prayer room. Erastus Snow Prayed & John 
Taylor was mouth. (See privat Journal.) 

101 spent the day in the office the forenoon Journalizing and the afternoon looking over the mail 
matter for news but found but little. 

Ill spent the day Journalizing and Compiling History. I Came in at 3 oclok P.M. Pound 
President Young in the office & T. Bullock reading to him the political papers. At the close of 
the reading I Compiled History with Jaques. 

121 spent the fore part of the day Compileing History. I spent the afternoon watering my garden. 

13 I spent the day Compiling History. I attended the Bishops meeting. ^ President Young was 
Present and delivered one of the most powerful discourses I ever herd from his mouth unto the 
Children of men. There was no reporter Present nor Clerk to keep minutes. Brother Calder wrote 
some minutes & I reported the following synopsis of the presidents remarks: 

Meeting opened by prayer by W. Woodruff. Bishop Hunter Called the roll & not more than half 
the Bishops present a part of the Councillors. Bishop Hunter then Called for teams to draw 
Adobies & sand. Also Enquired if there was houses to rent. Several was reported. A 
recommendation was read from one of the Brethren as school teacher. 

President Young then arose and said there is a good deal 1 want to say to the Bishops but 1 dont 
think 1 shall say much to you to night. I would liked to have seen all the Bishops here to night. 
Many are absent. I shall speak of those things which we want now. The Bishops are the men 
more than others to attend to the Business of the Church in the Stakes of Zion. 1 have said a good 
deal at times against the Bishops perhaps more than they thought was right. But I now will tell 


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you what I want. 

We have missionaries going abroad upon their missions. We are all acquainted with the situation 
& Locations of this Country. The revelations says take neither purse nor scrip. That is go without 
taking food or money. Now this revelation was given to the Twelve in Jerruselem a City filled 
with the wealth of the Nations. It is like giving the same commandment to Elders in New York 
City but it Cannot be Expected that Elders will start from this City to walk a thousand miles to 
settlements without food or to kill there game by the way. But they have got to be supplyed with 
means to go to there Field of Labor. 

I now want to take up a Collection next Sunday & the Sunday following for the missionaries who 
are not able to fit themselves out and I want the Bishops to see to it and attend to it. I shall take 
up a Collection for this purpose. We are in a land of plenty. We have a superabundance of means. 
Now shall we send out those Elders to beg of the poor saints who are already bound down with 
poverty to obtain all there supplies? No we will not. 

I do not mean that this people shall stay here in their wealth and sin any longer & send out Elders 
to preach & beg of the poor who have not means to Come to Zion as they have done heretofore. I 
intend this people Hereafter shall find means to send the elders to their fields of Labor and if 
necessary to bring them back again. Our Elders have had to beg so much from the people that 
they have bound the Saints with Chains of oppression. This must be stoped. The Saints in Zion 
must take this burthen off from the poor abroad. 

The people Here think [they] are vary good saints but they have but one Eye open. The Elders of 
Israel here in Zion have there minds upon worldly matters and not upon the building up of the 
kingdom of God. They will go into the stand and preach and get down and pray and promise the 
Lord what they will do. They will get up and a horse trade will make them deny all they promised 
the Lord as the Elders advance in the kingdom of God. 

Did I say advance? No they do not advance. You will hear Elders get up in the Stand and Exhort 
the people not to Quarrel with their Neighbors or abuse there wives or Children. Now if the 
Elders were living their religion & walking in the path of Duty they would Consider such 
preaching an Insult and a disgrace to them, as they would be living above such Conduct. 

The Elders and people are asleep and there Hearts are set upon getting rich and the work of God 
is out of sight to them, now I will say to you Bishops that I dont care a groat whether you or the 
people do one thing or not but I will warn you that if you do not go to and raise up means to 
assist in sending these Elders abroad and build up the Kingdom of God. The Lord will raise up 
other people to do the work which you and this people are Called to do. 

Any man who holds the priesthood of God that Commits sin and does not magnify that 
priesthood he will have to pay the penalty and He Cannot Escape it. 

Now if the Bishops want to do their duty let them go to work & raise means enough to help the 


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poor Saints that are going away. Orson Pratt, Erastus Snow are poor. Brother Bywater & John L 
Smith & some others want some help to get away, and their families will want help after they are 
gone and the Bishops must see to them. Such men as Ormus Bates Can take Care of himself & 
others Can but those who cannot must be provided for. 

You may think that I am hard. But all I would ask would be for the Bishops and this people to see 
the things of God & his Kingdom as I do. But when I think of the Situation of the Earth, and the 
price of the Earth which is no less than the life & Blood of the Lamb of God, and when I think 
what the Cost will be of the neglect of this people their worldly mindedness and unbelif it Causes 
me pain. What is the cost? It is this. Jesus Christ the Son of God our Elder Brother is at the door 
and wants to Come in and take possession of the kingdom and reign triumphant over his foes and 
you wont let him. This people are shutting up every avenue so that Jesus Christ Cannot Come to 
the Earth. 

Can you see what it costs? It makes my heart ake. (While in this part of his speach he walked the 
floor and his voice was like the voice of God.) "All I will ask of this people is to see things as I 
do. Then they would act & not sleep. 

Now what do the Bishops know about their wards or what is going on in there wards? Nothing. 
Let me ask a Bishop how many grog shops have you in your ward? I dont know. How many Hore 
Houses? I dont know. How many gambling shops &c? I dont know. And so it goes all through 
the Church. 

Some poor woman will Call upon a Bishop or some man upon business in the morning. The 
Bishop says O dont trouble me. I must go to the Canyon for wood. I dont want to be trouble 
though I am your Bishop. Bishops do not magnify there Calling in thes things. 

How many Bishops are there here to night out of the 20 wards in this City? Not many. How 
much tithing do we receive of the people in this Territory? Not one bushel of wheat in a hundred 
which is our due. Not a tithing of what we ought, and we have had to use much which we have 
received as tithing to build roade up provo Canyon and other places. 

Now we Cannot get tithing in any thing which the people Can sell for money. Now if some man 
would appear on these streets and offer Cash for wheat we would not get one bushel in a 
thousand. Now there has been $500,000 dollars worth of Freight annually paid for goods brought 
to this Territory. In 10 years there has [been] $5,000,000 dollars paid for goods. Now how much 
of that had ought to Come to the tithing office? $500,000 dollars. 

Now I will say to you Bishops if you feel to lay this thing before the people I want you to say to 
the people Bring on your dimes shillings half dollars Dollars, half Eagles, Eagles, Twenty Dollar 
peaces Fifty dollar peases and send these Elders to their field of Labor. 

I will now tell you how much the Elders in England have spent of the tithing money. They have 
spent $54,070. $27,035 each year. Now I want this stoped. From the day that P. P. Pratt 


Page3 1 7 




Commenced Begging in England up to the present time there is not one of that Class of Elders 
but what have become beggars. And Hell is full of such Elders and I dont Care how soon the rest 
go there. I went there and Esstablished the work and all the means I got I spent in Emigrating the 
poor. I have said that I would sell evry cents worth of property I possessed in the world for two 
thirds of its value and give every dime of it for Emigrating the poor saints. Now let any man or 
Company of men Come and Buy my property & I will give it to Emigrat the poor. And I will 
begin without one Cent and in 10 years I will be worth more than I am now. I will stop this 
begging in England if I Can and I think I Can do it. You Englishmen Cannot you see the poor 
saints starving in England? And yet our Elders will beg the last cent they have got. 

This subject has pained me for years But I have never had the power untill now to handle it. I 
now have the power and I will use it thank the Lord. 

Other remarks were made by the presidet. I arose and bore testimony to what President Young 
had said. The following are some of the remarks I made: 

I am not a Bishop but in a Bishops meeting and I feel like saying a few words as Presidet Young 
has given liberty. It matters not to me whether the lash hits me or you in the reproofs given by 
President Young. I feel to thank God that we are blessed with a leader who has indipendance of 
mind sufficient to do the will of God let it reprove or rebuke who it may. He asks no odds of any 
kingdom, Nations, people person or thing who stands in the way of his doing his duty. It is a 
Blessing to us that we have a leader who have Eyes to see for us when we are in danger 
ourselves. And if we had not some one to warn us and reprove us when we do wrong we would 
not be safe. Presidet Young is sustained by the power of God and when he Calls upon us to do 
any thing we ought to do it and if we withhold we do it to our hurt. 

The Elders in England have beged of the people untill they have bound them in Chanes and kept 
them there in poverty. If the Elders had pursued a wise Coarse there are thousands who are now 
in England who would this day have been in Zion. Then let us go to & fit out the missionaries 
and Stop there begging from the poor. Bishop [ ] made a few remarks& the meeting 

dismissed. 

141 spent the day in the office Compiling History & Journalizing. 

151 spent this day Journalizing & reading papers. The Eastern Mail Came in but not much news. 

16 Sunday I met with my Quorum in the morning & had prayers. I attended meeting at the 
Tabernacle all day. Elder O. Pratt Spoke in the morning and he preached an Excellent discourse. 
Said he had been in the Church thirty years lacking a few days. Spoke of what Joy he had in 
bearing testimony of the work of God & in bringing souls to repentence but he had sorrow in 
doing things that was not acceptable to the presidency of the Church. He said he was going on a 
mission and did not know whether he would ever return or not. He spoke as though he had some 
presentment that He would never return to Zion. ^ He was followed by President Young. 


Page318 




In the afternoon Capt Hooper spoke followed By H. C. Kimball D. H. Wells & President. The 
Presidency & O Pratt & W Woodruff of the Twelve met at 5 oclok in the prayer Circle. H. C. 
Kimball Prayed & B Young was mouth. At the Close we went to President Youngs office. He 
Said he wished to get up a party for the missionaries & wished W Woodruff John Taylor & F D 
Richards to be managers. 

171 spent the day Journalizing. 

181 went to Fort Harriman. Bought Wilford a white mare 4 years old with white Colt of the flat 
Head Stock. 25 mils. 

19 I returned home to salt Lake City & brought a load of Cedar post. 25 mils. 

20 I spent the day Compiling History. President Young arived } home at 8 oclok P.M. I received 
a Letter From my daughter Bulah the first she ever wrote me. 

211 spent most of the day in the office. Brother J W. Fox gave me the following account of there 
Journey: 

They left this City on Monday 17 drove to Wm. Kimball Station in Parleys park & spent the 
night. 18 Drove to grass Canyon and spent the night. 19 Visited the new Coal bed in grass 
Canyon. Found a good bed of Coal 10 feet 1 1 inches thick with a bed of lime stone on top of it 
40 feet thick. The Coal Came to the surface of the Earth in the Canyon whare they will tunnel in 
to get the coal. Drove to Thurstons & Grants & spent the night. 20 Drove back to the City & 
spent the night. There was about 20 person in Company and travelled about 130 miles. 

Elder Orson Hyde Called into the office to day. He informed me that Sanpete County put in 
12,000 Acres of wheat. Would average 20 bushels to the acre making 240,000 Bushels of wheat 
in 1860. 

22 I spent the day in the office At a missionary meeting in the Seventies Hall. Present President 
Young H. C. Kimball & O Hyde O Pratt W. Woodruff J. Taylor G. A. Smith E. T. Benson L. 
Snow E. Snow F. D. Richards & G. Q. Cannon of the Twelve, D. Spencer president of the Stake, 
Also Joseph Young & 4 of his Councellors. Meeting opened By prayer By Lorenzo Snow & 
singing. Names Called. Most were present. Six were Called to take seats & Presidet Young with 
the Twelve proceded to Bless them & set them apart to their missions. We then had singing & 
the 12 Blessed 6 more then singing & 6 more Blessed, singing & 5 Blessed. 26 Blessed in all. 
Meeting adjourned till 2 oclock. 

Met at 2 oclok A.M. [P.M.]. Singing & Prayer By H. S. Eldridge. President Young addressed the 
saints which was reported by G. D. Watt. He was followed by Elder Kimball and Joseph Young. 
Adjourned till 6 oclok. The Presidency & Twelve & Missionaries met at the 70 Hall at 
Candlelight for a Co[met?] which Lasted till 10 oclok. 


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Sept 23 Sunday I attended a Funeral of Sister Nancy Kent the oldest Sister of Brigham Young. 
She died Sept 22d 1860 Aged 74 years old 3d Aug 1860. John was 69 May 22d May 1860. 
Phineas 61,16 Feb 1860. Joseph 7 April 1860, 64 years old. Brigham was 59, June 1 1860, 
Lorenzo 54, 19 Oct 1860. 

Meeting opened By singing "Ear long the veil." Prayer By Joseph Young. John Young then spoke 
and said I fell to acknowledge the Hand of God in this thing. I dont fell this to be a matter of 
mourning though we feel to mis the society of our Friends when taken away. But we must follow 
our sister soon and I pray that I may be as well prepared as she is. 

Nancy was the oldest of the Family and the last of the Sisters that was taken away. She is in her 
75 year 57 years since she was married and she has always been a good woman and always kind 
to all. I dont know as I ever knew her get out of the way. She [had?] good gifts and she received 
the gospel the first time she herd it. She has been faithful to the last and now gone to the Spirit 
world. 

I have not the power to make manifest that which is in me. We must do the best we Can in this 
life & in the next. We shall receive a fulness but before I go home I want to have my work done 
so that I Can breath out my spirit in peace into the Hands of God. I want to use my time so that I 
have nothing to repent off. I want to live to do my work for If we leave our work to be done by 
somebody els to do it will be a long time before it is done. Like an Elder going on a mission 
leaves work to be done by some one Els it is undone. 

Phineas Young said I have been Edified in what has been said. Yet there has been Nothing said 
that I want to say. When my Friends die I want to speak of them. If I was to say which of my 
sisters is the best I could not tell. The last is gone, and the Brothers have got to follow but I dont 
know who will go first. But if I was to make a Choice & Chuse the one that has done the least 
good in the world or the one that was still likely to do the least good on the Earth it would be 
myself. I would like to go to the spirit world & be with my sisters. I dont expet to do much good 
in this life yet I feel that I have done about the best I Could. I dont want to live my life over again 
to try to Better it for I dont expet I should. I dont want to live any longer than it is the will of God 
I should. 

Joseph Young spoke. Gave a good exertation but I have lost the minutes for the present. 

Brigham Young spoke and said I dont want to say much at this time though I reflet much & 

Could say a good deal. I expet that it will appear a Novel thing for a man to preach the funeral 
sermon of his wife or Sister or any of his own Family but I had rather preach the funeral Sermon 
of my own Family or Call upon my Brothers to do it than to Call upon any body Else. 

There is a fear or trembling in the departure of the spirit from the body because it is attended with 
pain. I have no fear of Being dead or being in the spirit world but there is a fear in dying because 
of pain. Hence their is a terror in death, but no fear in having my spirit free but to get there is 


Page320 




hard work. 


If the Children of men was in possession of the truth Concerning Eternal things they would not 
Cling to life as they do. You know my feelings about mans sining & doing wrong. I have been 
kept from Evil, sin & suffering even in all the mobing. I have escaped whiping imprisionment 
and suffering and I feel that I have greater reason to rejoice. I dont know that is because I am 
more righteous than other men But I have greater reason to rejoice than other men in this thing. 

Sister Nancy was a good woman. I never knew her get angry in my life or do wrong. She would 
have done much good in her day if she had a chance. She has been Chained as it were but she has 
saved herself & her husband and I think others. I dont wish her back again, nor do I want to live 
my life over again. 

Neither do I want any of my Sisters to return. I do not wish to keep the people longer. 

Lorenzo Young Said there is a difference in men. Some were prepared for the gospel others not. I 
dont Care how rough my life may be if I do the best I Can. I was with Nancy a good deal and her 
last words were Hosannah glory to God. She wanted to say more but her speech failed. 

I do not wish to say much. Let us do good and shun Evil that we may not bring sorrow upon 
ourselves. I have often thought what would be the situation of many that have had great light and 
fallen away so that they Could have no redemption. There situation must be awful. It has been 
great Joy to Nancy to be with Brother Brigham & her friends. May God Bless us all is my prayer 
Amen. 

I accompanied the Corps to the grave. After the Corps was buried Presidet Young returned 
thanks to the friends for there attendance & said I hope we may all live so that we Can meet her 
in the morning of the first resurrection. 

I attended meeting at the Stand at 2 oclok & Wm. C. Stanes spoke & was followed By J. D T. 
McCalaster Wm. Martindale J. L. Smith A Calkings followed By B Young & H C. Kimball both 
of which spoke much to the Edifycation of the people. 

At the Close of the meeting The Presidency & Twelve met the missionaries at the Historian 
office. Several were Blessed. Among the Number was O Pratt Erastus Snow G Q Cannon, & 
Wm. H Hooper after which we repaired to the prayer room, whare we had a vary interesting 
meeting. 

The subject of Orson Pratt Came up again Concerning his fals doctrin. Presidet Kimball wished 
him to make satisfaction to Presidet Young But Presidet Young said he did not wish him to make 
any acknowledgements to him. Brother Pratt was strangely Constituted. He had acquired a good 
deal of knowledge upon many things but in other things He was one of the most ignorant men he 
ever saw in his life. He was full of integrity & would lie down & have his head Cut off for me or 
his religin if necessary but he will never see his Error untill he goes into the spirit world. Then he 
will say Brother Brigham how foolish I was. 


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Now Brother Pratt thinks that he and all the Gods will be learning for many millions of years but 
by & by will know all things & all will know it alike & that will be the End of their Exhaltations 
& knowledge. He Cannot see the folly of forming this opinion here in the flesh & in his 
ignorance. But a thousand years hence he will see the folly of it. I will hold on to Brother Pratt & 
all these my Brethren of the Twelve notwithstanding all their sins, folley, & weaknesses untill I 
met with them in my Fathers kingdom to part no more because they love God and are full of 
integrity. 

Brother Pratt said I do not believe as Brother Brigham & Brother Kimball do in some points of 
doctrin & they do not wish me to acknowledge] to a thing that 1 do not believe. Brother Brigham 
Said No you Cannot See the truth in this matter until you get into the spirit world. 

Brother Brigham spake vary Comforting words to the 12. He said his love for them was far above 
wom[a?]n & 1 wish you Could all say it. Brother Wells Prayed & John Taylor was mouth. W 
Woodruff was appointed a committee to fit out the missionaries. 

Sept 24 1 spent my time today in the office Journalizing & assisting to fit out the missionaries. 
The Eastern Mail Came in today. 

251 spent the day Journalizing & assisting to fit out the missionaries. ? I attended a missionary 
Party at the social Hall at 5 oclok. There were about 70 Couple present, ft was much the best 
party I ever attended. Their was much of the spirit of the Lord resting upon the Company. All the 
Presidency & O Hyde W. Woodruff J Taylor G. A. Smith Lorenzo Snow Erastus Snow & G Q 
Cannon of the Twelve present. 

I never saw Presidet Young feel Better. He gave a short address. He Said the gentile chain was 
broaken & they would never put their yoke again upon the neck of the Saints or Church & 
kingdom of God to all Eternity if we would do our duty. He blessed the Saints, and gave 
instruction to the Sisters upon the subject of we